Classic Conversations: Pop culture Interviews with Jeff Dwoskin

If you've ever wondered how comedy evolved from Civil War lecture halls to cocaine-fueled comedy clubs, Ritch Shydner has the stories and the scars to prove it.
The veteran comic, author, and self-proclaimed comedy historian returns to deliver a hilarious masterclass on stand-up's messy, magical past. From his nights sharing stages (and substances) with legends like Sam Kinison to the moment Robin Williams "borrowed" one of his jokes, Ritch paints a picture of the art form's wild evolution. He also drops mind-blowing facts about the origins of stand-up, like how a guy named Artemus Ward made Abraham Lincoln laugh through the Civil War, while weaving in his own road-warrior adventures from the 1980s boom. It's a funny, fast, and surprisingly educational trip through laughter itself.
Show Highlights:
Ritch reveals how Robin Williams once did one of his jokes on SNL — and tried to pay him for it.
The 1980s comedy scene: when cocaine, chaos, and creativity all shared the same dressing room.
How a 19th-century comic helped Abraham Lincoln survive the stress of war — with punchlines.
Sam Kinison's early days: from college bombings to HBO breakout fame (and a drug deal or two).
The secret link between vaudeville, radio, and today's stand-up podcasts.
What Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, and today's comics all have in common, total fearlessness.
The moment Ritch had to perform right after John Lennon's death — and how one comic ruined it.
You're going to love my conversation with Ritch Shydner

IMDB
Website
Facebook
TikTok
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.
SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation! Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond)

 
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.

Step back into television's golden era with actor and storyteller Darby Hinton, beloved for his role as Israel Boone on the classic series Daniel Boone.
From his early days growing up on Hollywood sets surrounded by legends like Charlton Heston and Jane Russell, to tales of life on set with Fess Parker and behind-the-scenes secrets of 1960s television, Darby opens the door to a time when family entertainment ruled the airwaves. He shares heartfelt memories of his iconic career, the magic of working as a child actor, and the enduring charm of a show that defined an era. With warmth and humor, Darby reflects on fame, family, and finding joy in storytelling through the decades.
Show Highlights:
Growing Up Hollywood – Darby shares what it was like to be surrounded by Hollywood royalty, from his godfather Charlton Heston to his early acting roles before Daniel Boone.
Becoming Israel Boone – The incredible story of how a casting mix-up led to Darby landing one of TV's most beloved roles.
Life on Set – From horse stunts to lunch at 20th Century Fox, Darby recalls the excitement and innocence of growing up on a hit television show.
Preserving the Memories – His touching reflections on his mother's passion for photography that inspired his book, Growing Up Israel.
A Legacy of Kindness – Darby's continued advocacy for child actors and his deep appreciation for the community that shaped his life.
You're going to love my conversation with Darby Hinton

IMDB
Growing up Israel (Darby's book)
Darby's webpage
Darby's Darlings & Dudes
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.
SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation!
Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond)

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.

Emmy Award-winning actress Lindsay Wagner reflects on her extraordinary journey through television history and celebrates the 50th anniversary of The Bionic Woman.
From her early modeling days and unexpected path into acting to her portrayal of Jamie Sommers, a character that inspired generations with both strength and compassion, Lindsay shares stories that reveal her wisdom, humor, and enduring connection to fans. Through nostalgia, laughter, and genuine reflection, this episode revisits the cultural phenomenon that shaped a generation and the woman who helped redefine what it meant to be a hero.
Show Highlights:
Lindsay recalls her early years in modeling and how an acting class changed her life.
The creation of The Bionic Woman and her collaboration with Kenneth Johnson brought emotional depth to Jamie Sommers.
Behind-the-scenes memories from the set, from Bigfoot encounters to the famous "bionic sound."
The power of storytelling in shaping self-image and the lasting emotional bond fans still feel today.
Reflections on the 50th anniversary, the new Bionic50.com project, and the importance of preserving Jamie's legacy.
You're going to love my conversation with Lindsay Wagner

Bionic 50 website
Lindsay's website
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.
SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation!
Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond)

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.

The stars of The Love Boat, Jill Whelan, Ted Lange, and Fred Grandy, reunite to reflect on the television phenomenon that continues to bring joy decades later.
They share memories from their days aboard the Pacific Princess, reveal surprising behind-the-scenes moments, and celebrate the timeless bonds formed through the show that captured hearts around the world. Now co-hosts of The Love Boat Podcast: Exciting and New, the trio talk about preserving the show's legacy, honoring their late castmates, and rediscovering the laughter and love that made the series a TV treasure.
Show Highlights:
Jill Whelan recalls joining The Love Boat at just 11 years old and learning comedy, professionalism, and life lessons from her castmates.
Fred Grandy shares how his son inspired the creation of their new podcast and how the legacy has become a multigenerational family affair.
Ted Lange discusses his evolution from bartender Isaac to director and playwright, showcasing the creative journey beyond the iconic series.
The trio opens up about the heartfelt connection between fans and cast, describing how the show's positivity continues to inspire decades later.
Fond memories of guest stars like Loretta Swit, Morgan Fairchild, and Charo highlight the warmth and humor behind the camera.
Jill and Ted recount stage projects with Fred, proving their on-screen chemistry has evolved into lifelong artistic collaboration.
Together, they reflect on what made The Love Boat truly special — laughter, friendship, and the enduring reminder that love always sets sail.
You're going to love my conversation with Jill Whelan, Ted Lange, and Fred Grandy

The Love Boat Podcast
Jill's IMDB
Ted's IMDB
Fred's IMDB
Instagram
YouTube
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.
SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation!
Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond)
 
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.

When a young comedy fan named Mark Malkoff became obsessed with Johnny Carson, he had no idea it would lead to eight years, 400 interviews, and a definitive book on the man who changed television.
In this captivating conversation, Mark shares the untold stories behind Carson's genius, the warmth hidden behind his quiet persona, the chaos behind the curtain, and the loyalty and heartbreak that shaped late-night TV. This isn't just nostalgia, it's the real Johnny, revealed through the people who knew him best.
A rare look at Johnny Carson's true legacy through the laughter, flaws, and friendships that defined him.
Five Show Highlights:
The spark that drove Mark from childhood curiosity to writing Love Johnny Carson after interviewing 400 guests from Carson's world.
How Joanne Carson's behind-the-scenes power moves secretly built Johnny's empire and shaped his Tonight Show legacy.
The truth about Carson's so-called aloofness and why those closest to him described someone far more open and kind.
Hilarious and chaotic behind-the-scenes stories: Marlon Brando's drunken interview, Ed Ames' legendary tomahawk moment, and more.
The emotional and professional fallout of Joan Rivers' break with Johnny and how it changed late-night forever.
Connect with Mark Malkoff: Grab Love, Johnny Carson in print or audio, wherever you get your books.
You're going to love my conversation with Mark Malkoff

Mark's website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
Buy the book, Love Johnny Carson
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.
SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation! Visit https://stampede.social
Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond)

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.