Society & Culture

Television legend Ed Asner has won seven Emmy Awards for performing which is more than any other male actor. He is primarily known for his role as Lou Grant on both The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spinoff series Lou Grant. Asner has had an extensive voice-acting career and starred as the voice of Carl Fredericksen in Pixar’s award-winning animated film Up (2009).

On this podcast the 91-year-old Ed Asner tells us stories about where it started and opens up to our Gentry Thomas about being a Son of a Junkman and the journey of the Junkyard to bright lights of Hollywood! 

You can tell that Ed is no fan of Donald Trump. He calls President Trump a liar and says that better years are ahead of us with President elect Joe Biden. 

Ed has had a chance to work with some of the biggest stars of all time. During this episode of Backstage Pass the Emmy Award winner talks about being on screen with Elvis and what made Mary Tyler Moore so special. 

Recently Ed Asner went on Kelly Clarkson’s new daytime TV show and commented on how she smelled. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX9FJrbGMoU

Other television appearances with Ed Asner include The Bronx Zoo, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Hawaii Five-O (1975), Hawaii Five-O (2012 remake), The Middle, The Trials of Rosie O’Neill, Hearts Afire, The Untouchables, Curb Your Enthusiasm, CSI: NY, Betty White’s Off Their Rockers, Working Class, Michael, Tuesdays and Thursdays, The Glades, just to name a few and many made-for-television movies. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 11:56 — 10.9MB)

It’s that time of the year again where the weather drops below zero and people trample one another for the best deals on toaster ovens. That’s right it’s officially the Christmas season and Gentry went out and caught Ralphie from ‘A Christmas Story’ just for your listening pleasure. Peter Billingsley as most refer to him has a new Christmas movie coming out ‘A Christmas Story Christmas’ based on Ralphie’s character being all grown up and having a family of his own. You can watch the movie now on HBO Max if you’d like to see how well Ralphie took turning 40.Gentry asks Peter to describe some of his favorite scenes as a child in the movie and we even get a rendition of the worst cuss word of them all. He then describes the infamous lamp which 12 year old Peter couldn’t wait to get his hands on. The two talk about Christmas movies, Vince Vaughn, being a child actor, and so much more. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:44 — 40.6MB)

Gentry goes Backstage on the set of ‘To Die For’ to talk to actor and country singer John Schneider. The ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ star talks about his newest movie ‘To Die for’ which Schneider leads and directs. The film honors the people who have sacrificed for our freedoms and sets the record straight about what matters in this country today. Going against woke culture and defeating the snowflakes is the goal this motion picture shoots to achieve.John describes the importance of the American flag in today’s society and why we should be fighting to protect it. He also describes the importance of debate and conversing issues with one another. Gentry and John talk about ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’, making movies, patriotism, and so much more. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 18:24 — 16.9MB)

Today we go backstage with Jeff Pearlman, a sports author and New York Times best seller. Pearlman has a total of seven New York Times best sellers. They talk about Pearlman’s most recent work ” The Last Folk Hero: The Life and Myth of Bo Jackson.” This book is about Bo Jackson and his stellar athletic career in both professional Football and Baseball throughout the 80’s and 90’s, and is the only player to ever make All Star status in both professional football and Baseball.Gentry and Pearlman talk about the popular series “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.” Pearlman has published a book called “Three Ring Circus”, which is about the Lakers Dynasty in 1996 through 2004 when Kobe and Shaq collided as one of the best duo’s in basketball history. Pearlman also share’s his thoughts on Kyrie Irving’s recent controversy reposting and anti-semetic documentary found on Amazon.
Listen to more of Gentry’s interviews by subscribing to Backstage Pass The Podcast.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:07 — 15.7MB)

Gentry talks with Nate Boyer who has done it all from football, being a Green Beret, to even acting. The two talk about Nate’s new movie ‘M.V.P’ named after the foundation which he co-founded that merges vets and players. To find out more click the following link https://vetsandplayers.org. It was created to help them with coming to terms following life after the military and after professional sports. The movie stars Mo McRae, a retired NFL star and Nate Boyer, a former Marine, as the two cross paths in an unlikely manner.The film involves real military vets and real former NFL stars each telling their real life stories and what transitioning back to regular life is like. Nate then tells what his experience was like going to war then playing both college and professional football and then going back to civilian life. Gentry then pitches a game show idea to him which makes military vets the stars. Gentry and Nate talk about ‘M.V.P’., being a war vet, NFL, and so much more. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes and interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 10:03 — 9.2MB)

Gentry’s Backstage again and today he’s with British actor Tom Hopper. His newest movie ‘Love in the Villa’ premiers September 1st on Netflix. Tom plays the role of a cynical British man who’s room gets double booked with a mysterious female stranger. The Englishman describes the beautiful shooting location of the film “Verona Italy” which is famous for being the setting in Shakespeare’s play ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Despite the awe inspiring views of Verona the only thing Gentry could focus on in the movie’s trailer was a nearly naked Tom and all his muscles.Gentry even gets some dieting tips from Tom who describes himself as a vegetable connoisseur. The two then compare the U.S. and the U.K. in several subjects and debate on which country has the better football. Tom and Gentry talk about Ozzy Osbourne, American and British cuisine, The Umbrella Academy and so much more on today’s episode. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 20:38 — 18.9MB)

Gentry goes backstage today with a psychic medium and reality TV star Matt Fraser. You may have seen Matt on his hit TV show ‘Meet The Frasers’ which stars him alongside his whole family going through their loud, erratic, and spiritual life. The Native Rhode Islander has just recently released a new book ‘We Never Die: Secrets of the Afterlife’ which describes the truth about heaven and why we never really die. Matt even describes how he used his psychic powers to woo his now wife over.America’s top medium explains to Gentry how each and everyone of us has energies even after we pass. He then describes the signs you can recognize that your loved ones use to show they are still looking after you from the afterlife. Gentry even gets his own reading and the two talk about unsolved mysteries, speaking to the dead, the burden of being a psychic, and so much more on today’s episode of Backstage Pass. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 12:44 — 11.7MB)

On today’s rendition of Backstage Pass we’re joined by actress, writer, math genius, and an advocate for education Danica McKellar. Also known as Winnie Cooper from her starring role in The Wonder Years. Today she hangs with Gentry to talk about her newest children’s book ‘Double Puppy Trouble’ a picture book dedicated to making mathematics simple and fun. She describes what it was like growing up being a child actress and what The Wonder Years set was actually like. Danica explains how her busy childhood on set may have led her to writing children’s books.Gentry asks the famous math PHD how he can help his young daughter get through pre-algebra and Danica tells Gentry to ‘Kiss My Math’. The childhood sweetheart who stole hearts aplenty reveals who her childhood crush was nearly the second she was asked. The two talk about The Wonder Years, Michael J Fox, being a child actress, and so much more in today’s episode of Backstage Pass. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes. Rate and Review the show please and thank you! See ya Backstage!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 18:30 — 16.9MB)

Today Gentry is joined by professional wrestler, and WWE champion Booker T. The two talk about Booker’s recent return to the ring and how surreal it was and how he even wore the same tights from 1998. Gentry gets some workout tips from the biggest man in nearly every gym on how to keep pushing the weights even as an older gentleman. In light of the news of Vince McMahon’s recent departure from the WWE the hall of famer gives his thoughts on the matter and how he thinks Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan will fill his role. The 11 year World Wrestling Entertainment vet explains what it means to be champ and how one acquires the belt and championship status. He also gives some insider secrets on which wrestlers cried the most in the locker room. Gentry and Booker converse about trash talk, the wrestling business, what makes a wrestler great and so much more. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the newest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 16:52 — 15.4MB)

Gentry delivers today’s rendition of Backstage Pass with actor, comedian, radio personality, and record breaking podcaster Adam Carolla. The man with the girthiest…….. hands has a new book releasing ‘Everything Reminds Me of Something: Advice, Answers… but no Apologies’ which is available for purchase now on amazon. Gentry and Adam talk about the difference between going on CNN vs Fox and how profitable podcasting can be. Carolla also talks about his new invention the beet bracelet which hopefully will hit stores soon. The 58 year old comedian tells stories of his fellow joke tellers who’ve recently passed such as Norm McDonald and Gilbert Gottfried. After reminiscing and remembering the ones we sadly lost Adam and Gentry make presidential predictions as well as talk about our current president. We get all the dirty details about Trump, Adams’ new book, the Playboy Mansion, and the all time great comedians. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest and greatest interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:48 — )

Today’s rendition of Backstage Pass brings us 80s child mega-star, actor, and musician Corey Feldman. The artist is celebrating his new album ‘Love Left 2: Army With Love’ and his new box set ‘Love Left 2.1’ which is releasing on his birthday July 16th. Corey is currently touring all across the country playing his music for all to hear and enjoy. The last tour date is September 18th at ‘The Canyon’ in Santa Clarita, California so get tickets while you can at his official website Corey Feldman.netThe 50 year old entertainer describes how he first found his love for performing while lip syncing Billy Jean in front of 40,000 people at the Rose Bowl at just 12 years old. He also describes how his friendship with Michael Jackson as a young kid influenced the way he performs now from being with Michael at shows and even being with him in the studio. The 80s star talks about his documentary ”My Truth: The Rape of Two Coreys’ where it describes how he lost his childhood friend and how Charlie Sheen is responsible. Gentry and Corey talk about Stand By Me, River Phoenix, Corey Haim, the dangers of being a child actor and so much more. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest interviews.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 14:43 — 13.5MB)

On today’s backstage escapade Gentry is joined by producer and actor Marcus Harvey along with media personality and son of heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne Mr. Jack Osbourne. The two talk about their ongoing show Fright Club which looks and explores the internet’s craziest paranormal content. The aforementioned show was just renewed for its second season, dropping June 30th and can be streamed on Discovery+. Gentry gets all the dark details about all of their ghastly adventures across the globe.Marcus bravely speaks out about the ghost that touched him one night which he hasn’t reported up until this interview. Jack shares how he may have accidentally opened a portal to the other side and has seen full body apparitions. The trio talk about UFO Ubers, Bigfoot’s junk in the trunk, and how scary Ozzy Osbourne can be when he gets mad. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:45 — 32.5MB)

On today’s podcast Gentry talks with author and retired Air Force Lieutenant colonel pilot Dan “Two Dogs” Hampton. The author has recently come out with a new book ‘Valor: The Astonishing World War II Saga of One Man’s Defiance and Indomitable Spirit’ which is about a world war two P.O.W. who withstood the unimaginable. Hampton himself has pushed through some inconceivable feats as he’s flown 151 combat missions and has logged 726 career combat hours. And he’s additionally written nine different books since 2012 while also achieving the New York Times best seller status.Gentry picks Dan’s brain about the recent Ukraine conflict with Russia and if he feels modern day war has changed since his time in combat. The two also talk about what the greatest threat to the American people is and whether it is an external or internal threat. The Air force Vet then describes the F-35 fighter jet which he states is the most advanced of its kind and should leave other countries shaking in their boots. Gentry asks about politics, war, top gun, and the presidency all on today’s rendition of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 15:11 — 13.9MB)

On today’s episode of Backstage Pass Gentry is joined by actor, comedian, and writer Bashir Salahuddin. The two talk about his recent role starring alongside Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer in Top Gun Maverick. Bashir plays Hondo which is Mavericks A.K.A. Tom’s best friend in the movie. Naturally as his best friend in the movie he has all the best stories about Tom taking G-forces like a champ while zooming around at supersonic speeds in a F/A-18 Super Hornet for your viewing pleasure. The Chicago Native also talks about his ongoing sitcom now streaming on HBO Max promptly named South Side. The show is about two friends living out of Englewood Chicago who are trying to make it big. The show holds a special place in Salahuddin’s heart because of his south side up-bringing. Gentry and Bashir talk about Top Gun, Tom Cruise, sports, and being coated in baby oil all in today’s podcast. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 15:59 — 14.6MB)

On today’s episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas we go in depth with actor, boxer, musician, and teacher Tony Danza. The two talk about his recent performances of music from the American songbook. The 71 year old singer is touring all across the country and bringing joy everywhere he goes reviving the songs of the early 20th century. Tony even describes how working on the Emmy award winning show Taxi led to his interest in performing music on stage.The Italian boxer explained how his boxing career actually landed him the role for Taxi after he came into the audition all banged up from a bout he had the night before. The native New Yorker gives his thoughts on the recent youtuber boxing matches that have been blowing up everywhere and if they belong in the sport. Tony gives his take on the recent defunding of the police movement because of his involvement in the police athletic league. Danza talks with gentry about all of his famous co-stars, civil rights, the state of boxing today and so much more, all on today’s episode of The Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes releasing.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 21:13 — 19.4MB)

David Gergen perhaps is best known for his role serving as an adviser to four American presidents, Republicans and Democrats alike. He helped President Nixon write his resignation letter after Watergate, that now resides in the Smithsonian Institute. He assisted President Gerald Ford navigate out of inflation and saw President Reagan go from actor/cowboy to true leader in The Situation Room. During this podcast with Gergen, our host Gentry Thomas discusses our current President Joe Biden, how to attack inflation and his biggest moments while being a public servant. David Gergen fresh off his 80th Birthday just a couple weeks ago discussed his new book, Hearts Touched With Fire: How Great Leaders are Made. Gergen gave his perspective on how hardship can breed strong leaders, and the state of political leaders today.
David has often been praised for his ability to see both sides and work across the isle. Some in politics call him the last reasonable American man. Hear his takes on Russia Ukraine and the moment in public service that has brought him the most joy. Subscribe and tell a friend to listen to Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas. For more great interviews go to ThePodcastPlayground.com

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 22:28 — 20.6MB)

Today on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas we are joined by the one and only WWE legend The Big Show or as he likes to be called Paul Wight. The two talk about his recent move to AEW (All Elite Wrestling) where his name is no longer The Big Show but instead he has decided to keep his name Paul Wight at least for the time being. Gentry also does his best to organize a match between Paul and The Big Aristotle AKA Shaq. The 50 year old wrestler talks about his involvement with an NFT sci-fi series in the GenZeroes universe. The show’s plot is chosen by the viewers who provide monetary donations and in return choose the direction of the show. Paul talks about his time acting as Walter Krunk in the movie Knucklehead and how he related to the character because of his larger than life size. The two talk about basketball, wrestling, comedy, technology, the internet, and he reveals his new wrestling name which is…… Make sure to subscribe and follow Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas for the latest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 19:21 — 17.7MB)

On today’s episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas we are visited by a four time Grammy award winning musician John Elefante. The former lead man of Kansas, a band made famous by songs such as ‘Carry on Wayward Son ‘and ‘Dust in the Wind ‘, has just released his own solo album. Promptly named ‘The Amazing Grace’ the album is dedicated to understanding God’s faith and is available on Spotify, YouTube, and his website JohnElefante.com.John and Gentry discuss the recent resurgence of vinyl records and which records were their favorites as young kids. John even tells a story how as a young man he sold 50 of his records for just 25 cents. He then describes how he used his award winning voice to become the front man of Kansas despite him stating how his knees were shaking during the audition. John Elefante gives his takes on Steve Walsh, Kerry Livgren, social media, faith, Tennessee Titans, and so much more on today’s podcast. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 20:17 — 27.9MB)

On today’s episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas we listen to author and director Kevin Smokler. The two talk about Smokler’s new documentary ‘Vinyl Nation’ which looks into the new resurgence over the past decade of vinyl records. The documentary is available to watch on YouTube, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. They also touch on the coming up vinyl record day which is August 12th where you celebrate by going out and supporting a local record store.
The director discusses his obsession with 80s movies and how he always wanted to live in Hill Valley California with Marty McFly after stating he has watched ‘Back to the Future’ more than anyone ever. The two also speak on how the production of vinyl records have changed and how large companies have reduced the quality of the records they sell to make a quick buck. Gentry and Kevin chat it up about records, music, new technology , 80s movies, and so much more on today’s podcast. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest episodes.