The Locher Room

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  Alan Shayne reflects on 100 remarkable years, Hollywood, his 68-year love story with Norman Sunshine, and the life lessons behind his memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years… Listen now! 21.07.2026 1Std. 5Min.

  At 100 years old, Alan Shayne has lived a life unlike any other.In this heartfelt conversation, Alan reflects on an extraordinary journey that spans Broadway, the earliest days of television, Hollywood, and his years as President of Warner Bros. Television, where he helped shape iconic series including Wonder Woman, Alice, The Dukes of Hazzard, Growing Pains, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King.Alan also opens up about discovering his identity as a young man at a time when being gay was neither understood nor accepted, his first love, and the remarkable 68-year relationship he shares with acclaimed artist Norman Sunshine.Together, we discuss his latest memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years…, the lessons he’s learned from a century of living, why he and Norman first shared their story in Double Life, and what he hopes readers take away from this deeply personal book.Filled with warmth, humor, honesty, and unforgettable stories, this is a conversation about love, resilience, purpose, and a life truly well lived.If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others discover these conversations.
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  Casey S. Hutchison, Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin & Kristina Sullivan Preview Haven Falls, Share Guiding Light Memories & Reveal Amelia Marshall’s Arrival 14.07.2026 1Std. 8Min.

  Podcast DescriptionHaven Falls creator Casey S. Hutchison joined cast members Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin, and Kristina Sullivan for a preview of the highly anticipated new audio drama premiering June 25.The group discussed Casey’s introduction to soap operas, why Haven Falls was the next story he wanted to tell, and his decision to release new episodes at 2 p.m. Central, a nod to the tradition of daytime drama.Jeff and Frank reflected on their Guiding Light years, their love of serialized storytelling, and the opportunity to return to a format that takes soaps back to their roots. BJ and Kristina shared what drew them to their new characters and what it has been like working with such a talented ensemble cast.Plus, there was exciting news for Guiding Light fans as Casey revealed that Amelia Marshall, known to many viewers as Gilly Grant, will join Haven Falls beginning with Episode 6.Haven Falls premieres June 25, 2026 wherever you listen to podcasts.
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  Neil Adams on Michael Dorian’s 9/11 Heroism, HIV Journey, Finding Love with Aaron, Ground Zero, and the Story Behind From the Pile 07.07.2026 56Min.

  Author Neil Adams joined me to discuss his book, From the Pile, and the extraordinary life of his close friend Michael Dorian.During our conversation, Neil reflected on their nearly 30-year friendship, Michael’s childhood trauma, HIV diagnosis, search for love and acceptance, and his determination to build a better life. We also discussed Michael’s decision to run toward Ground Zero on September 11th to help others, the lasting health consequences he faced, and the years-long effort to uncover footage proving he had been there.Neil shared the touching story of introducing Michael to Aaron, who would become Michael’s partner and fiancé, and reflected on the resilience, courage, and compassion that defined Michael’s life.It’s a moving conversation about friendship, redemption, service, and the legacy of a man whose story deserves to be remembered.
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  Amanda Reyes & Daniel Budnik explored soap stars, primetime TV movies and television history, plus surprise guest Colleen Zenk shared memories of Woman on the Ledge and Christmas Evil. 30.06.2026 1Std. 19Min.

  Amanda Reyes and Daniel Budnik joined me for a fascinating conversation inspired by the Soap Operas in Popular Culture Conference and their presentation, Daytime After Dark: Exploring the Relationship Between the Daytime Drama and the Primetime Made-for-TV Movie.Together, we looked at the surprising connection between daytime soap operas and the primetime TV movie boom of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. Amanda and Dan shared how soap stars regularly crossed into made-for-TV movies, why networks embraced these actors in primetime projects, and how these films became major television events for audiences across the country.We also discussed their love of soap operas, the origins of The Made-For-TV Mayhem Show, and some of the most memorable TV movies of the era.As a special surprise, Colleen Zenk joined us to share memories of appearing in Woman on the Ledge alongside Deidre Hall and Leslie Charleson, and she also looked back at her memorable role as Binky in the cult classic Christmas Evil.If you love soap operas, television history, pop culture nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories, this is an episode you will not want to miss.
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  Josh Murray Discussed Gym Rat, Winning Best Actor at the Beverly Hills Film Festival, Mental Health, General Hospital, Lou Ferrigno and His Family’s Dream of Producing a Film Together 23.06.2026 59Min.

  Actor Josh Murray joined me for a thoughtful conversation about his award-winning performance in Gym Rat, the dark psychological thriller that earned him Best Actor honors at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.Josh discussed his lifelong love of movies and how film helped shape the course of his life and career. We explored the powerful themes at the heart of Gym Rat, including addiction, mental health, isolation, redemption, and the importance of sharing stories that help people feel less alone in their struggles.Josh also reflected on winning Best Actor, working alongside the legendary Lou Ferrigno, and the emotional impact of bringing Lonnie Milsap’s journey to the screen. In addition, we looked back at his role as Russell on General Hospital, where he held Drew Cain captive, and talked about the unique experience of working in daytime television.The conversation also turned personal as Josh shared the story of his father’s passion for writing screenplays and their hope of one day bringing one of those scripts to life on the big screen.It was an inspiring discussion about perseverance, storytelling, family, and following your dreams.
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  Jen Jacob & Jordi Vilasuso joined Alan Locher to talk Beyond the Gates, audition stories, daytime TV, cast bonds, career journeys, Guiding Light memories and the future of soaps. 16.06.2026 1Std. 5Min.

  Jen Jacob and Jordi Vilasuso joined me in The Locher Room for a fun and insightful conversation about their work on Beyond the Gates and their journeys through the entertainment industry.Jen talked about her audition process for the role of Ashley Morgan, transitioning from primetime and film into daytime television, and the fast pace that comes with working on a soap. She also opened up about the incredible support system among the cast and what has made this experience so meaningful for her.Jordi reflected on how the role of Grayson Perez came into his life and what it has meant to step into his fifth daytime role after memorable runs on Guiding Light, All My Children, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless. He also shared his thoughts on the recent two-season renewal for Beyond the Gates and why he believes audiences continue to connect with daytime storytelling.We also talked about working with their co-stars, the family atmosphere behind the scenes, life outside of acting and so much more.A heartfelt, funny and engaging conversation with two stars helping bring new energy to daytime television.
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  Jon Lindstrom joined me to discuss Hollywood Payback, Beyond the Gates, Joey Armstrong, Michelle Val Jean, and his upcoming book Pressure Point with Jeff Ayers coming this December 09.06.2026 1Std. 3Min.

  Jon Lindstrom joined me in The Locher Room to discuss his new novel Hollywood Payback and what it took to follow up Hollywood Hustle. He opened up about the pressure of writing a second book, the discipline of his early morning routine, and why he truly fell in love with the writing process.We also talked about the research behind the book, including the experts he leaned on to bring authenticity to the worlds of crime, prison life, and the legal system, and how those insights shaped the story.Jon shared how his role as Joey Armstrong on Beyond the Gates came to life through his longtime friendship with Michelle Val Jean, and just how much he’s enjoying being part of a brand-new show that’s already building momentum.He also reflected on his career in daytime television, from Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain to Craig Montgomery, and how those experiences continue to influence his work today.Plus, Jon gave a preview of what’s next, including his upcoming book Pressure Point, co-written with Jeff Ayers, set for release this December.
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  Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me to share his story of survival, resilience, and the message he continues to share at 98: love your neighbor, accept others as equal, and never forget. 02.06.2026 54Min.

  Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me for a powerful Conversation with Alan, sharing his story of survival, resilience, and the responsibility to bear witness.At just 11 years old, Nate was forced into ghettos and later Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation of Poland. He survived unimaginable conditions alongside his father, including a death march, before being liberated in 1945. His mother and sister were murdered during the Holocaust.In this conversation, Nate reflected on his memoir The Weight of Freedom, the vivid memories he continues to carry, and the bond with his father that helped him survive. He also spoke about his lifelong work as an educator, including his involvement with March of the Living, and his mission to ensure future generations understand not only what happened, but why it must never be forgotten.At 98, Nate’s message remains clear and urgent: love your neighbor, accept your fellow man as your equal, and choose to be an upstander, not a bystander.Bernice Leipciger also joined the conversation, offering her perspective on Nate’s journey and the importance of continuing to share his story.
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  Eric Feltes on Healing Religious Trauma, Unlearning Shame, and Building Confidence, Intimacy, and Self-Worth as a Gay Man in a Powerful, Honest Conversation About Identity and Growth 26.05.2026 1Std. 10Min.

  Eric Feltes joined me for a powerful and honest conversation about healing from religious trauma, unlearning shame, and building confidence, intimacy, and self-worth.Growing up in a conservative evangelical environment, Eric shares what it was like to feel that being gay was incompatible with belonging, and how that early messaging shaped his identity. He opens up about the moment everything changed, and the years of work that followed as he began to untangle belief from identity and build a life rooted in authenticity.We talk about the root of shame, how it shows up in everyday life, and what it really takes to move beyond it. Eric also shares insight into why intimacy can be a challenge, and how it’s something that can be learned and rebuilt over time.We also discuss his new program launching in June, designed to help gay men reconnect with themselves, their desires, and their relationships in a more honest and fulfilling way.This is a meaningful conversation about identity, healing, and what it takes to fully embrace who you are.
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  Jessica Collins & Lisa Melamed on Where’s Big Dog?, Y&R, Loving, Dolly Parton, Friendship, Grief, Healing and the Story Behind a Book Inspired by Loss, Family and the Bond We Share With Our Pets 19.05.2026 1Std. 2Min.

  Jessica Collins and Lisa Melamed joined me to talk about their heartfelt book Where’s Big Dog?, inspired by Jessica’s loss of her beloved dog Lucy and the journey of turning that grief into something meaningful for families.We talked about the genesis of the book, how a deeply personal moment became the foundation for a story centered on love, loss and healing, and how they approached creating something that could help both children and parents navigate difficult conversations.Jessica also looked back on her early days on Loving, working alongside Laura Wright and Paul Anthony Stewart, and the lasting impact The Young and the Restless had on her life, including her Daytime Emmy win.Lisa shared her path from Brooklyn to Hollywood, her work as a writer and producer on series like Party of Five, Sistersand Hey Dude, and what it meant to step into a more intimate form of storytelling with this book.We also talked about their friendship, working with Dolly Parton, and so much more.
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  Diana Malkin & Margaret Gurevich on The Crossing & Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, Identity, Immigration, Antisemitism, Empathy, and Growing Up Between Cultures—A Meaningful Conversation 12.05.2026 48Min.

  In this episode of The Locher Room, Alan sat down with authors Diana Malkin and Margaret Gurevich for a meaningful conversation about identity, culture, and the stories that shape who we are.Margaret shares the inspiration behind her new novel, Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, a coming-of-age story set in 1986 that follows a young Russian American boy navigating life between cultures while preparing for his Bar Mitzvah. Drawing from her own experiences, Margaret opens up about growing up feeling “othered,” embracing her identity, and the importance of telling Jewish stories at a time when antisemitism is on the rise.Diana discusses her children’s book, The Crossing, which weaves together themes of immigration, health awareness, and cultural diversity through a deeply personal lens. Her work speaks to both children and parents, offering an accessible and heartfelt way to explore complex topics.Together, this conversation highlights the power of storytelling to build empathy, foster understanding, and help us all feel a little less alone.Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah and The Crossing are both available now wherever books are sol
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  Carl Tye Evans revisited Guiding Light and As the World Turns as Kristina Sisco Romero surprised him, celebrating ATWT’s 70th anniversary and their unforgettable storyline together. 05.05.2026 1Std. 3Min.

  Carl Tye Evans joined me to revisit his time as Alan-Michael Spaulding on Guiding Light and Nick Scudder on As the World Turns, sharing memories from both shows and reflecting on his years in daytime.In a special moment, Kristina Sisco Romero (Abigail Williams) dropped in to surprise Carl as we celebrated what would have been the 70th anniversary of As the World Turns. Together, they looked back on their unforgettable storyline and the moments that still resonate with fans today.We also talked about Carl’s first feature film, Walking on the Sky, and how a deeply personal experience led him to step behind the camera. He also shared more about his life today, including earning his pilot’s license and his love of motorcycles.
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  Katherine Kamhi reflected on All My Children, Guiding Light, Oprah, Susan Lucci and her journey from daytime television to primetime, including NYPD Blue, Bones and Sleepaway Camp roles 28.04.2026 55Min.

  Katherine Kamhi joined me to reflect on her career across daytime television, primetime, and film. Best known for her roles as Pamela Kingsley on All My Children and Marcy Campbell on Guiding Light, she discussed getting her start at 16 while balancing school and a demanding production schedule during a peak era of daytime television.She shared memories of working with Susan Lucci, her friendship with Jennifer Gatti, and her experience appearing in a scene with Oprah Winfrey early in Oprah’s career. Katherine also reflected on her time on Guiding Light, where she returned over several years in a recurring role that allowed her to play a very different kind of character.The conversation also covered her work in primetime television, including appearances on NYPD Blue, The Practice, and Bones, as well as her role in the cult film Sleepaway Camp.Throughout the episode, Katherine offered insight into her experience working across different formats and how her career evolved from daytime to primetime and beyond.
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  Rich Burns and the cast of The Disappointments joined me to preview Season 2, now on YouTube. We talked friendship, reinvention, and the heart behind the Humanitas Prize-winning series. 21.04.2026 1Std. 10Min.

  Rich Burns, Gedde Watanabe, James Campbell and Chuck Saculla joined me in The Locher Room to preview Season 2 of The Disappointments, the Humanitas Prize-winning series that resonated with audiences for its honest, funny and heartfelt storytelling.We talked about the long journey to bring Season 2 to life, revisiting Season 1 through the Director’s Cut, and what fans could expect as the story continued. From new opportunities and challenges for Ray, Gary and James to deeper themes of reinvention, friendship and purpose, the new season took even bigger swings.Rich also shared why the themes of the series connected with so many people, regardless of age or identity. At its core, The Disappointments explored friendship, resilience and the humor that can be found even in life’s disappointments.Season 2 is now streaming on YouTube.
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  Damian Pelliccione on Building Revry, Coming Out as Non-Binary During the Pandemic, the Business Case for LGBTQ+ Media, and Why the Drag King Competition Series King of Drag Is Expanding Visibility 14.04.2026 58Min.

  Damian Pelliccione joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the journey behind Revry, the first global queer-owned streaming platform. Damian shared how the idea for Revry was sparked while watching an Apple keynote and how that lightbulb moment led to building a platform focused on LGBTQ+ storytelling and visibility.We talked about Damian’s path from actor to entrepreneur, the early scrappy launch of Revry during San Francisco Pride, and why distribution, marketing, and accessibility became central to the company’s strategy.Damian also reflected on coming out as Non-Binary during the pandemic, the responsibility that comes with being visible as a leader in media, and the importance of creating spaces where diverse stories can thrive.The conversation also explored the growing “rainbow economy,” the real business case for inclusive media, and the excitement surrounding the drag king competition series King of Drag.It was a thoughtful discussion about leadership, identity, storytelling, and building something that didn’t previously exist.
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  Thom Racina joined me to share Luke & Laura wedding memories casting Patch, and bringing Elizabeth Taylor to General Hospital—plus Snow Angels: a limited series in development! 07.04.2026 1Std. 10Min.

  Five-time Emmy nominee Thom Racina joined me for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career in daytime television and beyond.Thom shared behind-the-scenes stories from General Hospital’s iconic Luke & Laura wedding, casting Stephen Nichols as Patch on Days of Our Lives, and what it was like bringing the legendary Elizabeth Taylor to Port Charles. His stories were candid, funny, and filled with history that longtime soap fans will appreciate.We talked about the evolution of daytime storytelling, writing unforgettable characters, and the creative risks that defined his career.Thom also revealed what may be the next exciting chapter. He is currently working with producer Tom Mazza on a limited series adaptation of his thriller Snow Angels. Thom said getting this project made would feel like the perfect capstone to a wonderful career — not only because it is a great thriller, but because it would put a meaningful bow on decades of storytelling.This was a conversation soap fans and lovers of great storytelling won’t want to miss.
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  Michael Walker and Susan Gomes joined me to talk about The Legend of Juan Jose Mundo, a coming-of-age film drawn from shared memories of suburban New York in 1984. 31.03.2026 36Min.

  Director Michael Walker and writer Susan Gomes joined me in The Locher Room to talk about their film The Legend of Juan Jose Mundo.Set in suburban New York in 1984, the film is built from a collection of real experiences Susan and her friends lived through during their high school years. Together, Michael and Susan wove those shared memories into a story centered on a charismatic Spanish exchange student whose arrival disrupts the emotional world of a group of teenage girls and challenges the myths they’ve built about love, friendship, and themselves.In our conversation, we talked about developing the story collaboratively, balancing memory and emotional truth with humor, casting, locations, music, and what it means to look back at youth from the perspective of adulthood. Michael also shared how this project fit into his career as a character-driven filmmaker, while Susan reflected on seeing something deeply personal take on a life of its own.Thank you for listening to this episode of The Locher Room.
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  Ellery Capshaw (As the World Turns’ Natalie Snyder) and Ron Stempkowski on Grief, Sobriety, Loss, Love and Their Debut Books Three Walled World and The Luck We Carry 24.03.2026 1Std. 1Min.

  In this episode of The Locher Room, Alan spoke with two remarkable debut authors for a thoughtful conversation about love, grief, identity, and the stories that shape our lives.Ellery Capshaw, who daytime fans remember as Natalie Snyder on As the World Turns, discussed her powerful debut poetry collection Three Walled World. In the book, Ellery reflects on growing up on a Brooklyn soundstage, the loss of her father, her struggles with alcohol, and her journey to sobriety while finding her voice through writing.Ron Stempkowski also joined the conversation to talk about his moving new memoir The Luck We Carry: Love, Loss, and the Stories That Shape Us. Through a deeply personal collection of essays, Ron shared reflections on the life he built with his husband Ken, the experience of caregiving, the grief that followed Ken’s death from cancer, and the path toward rebuilding a meaningful life.Three Walled World was released March 24.The Luck We Carry was released March 23, marking the 25th anniversary of the day Ron met his husband Ken.Together, these conversations explored loss, resilience, recovery, and the power of storytelling.
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  Rodney Wilson & Chris Bruno: 30 Years After All My Children’s Michael Delaney Story, The Pink Triangle Moment, Alicia Coppola’s Push, and Why This Courageous Arc Still Matters Today in The Locher Room 17.03.2026 1Std. 10Min.

  Thirty years after All My Children broke new ground with the Michael Delaney storyline, Rodney Wilson and Chris Bruno come together for the first time to reflect on the moment that changed both of their lives.Rodney shares what it meant to come out to his students in 1994 during a Holocaust lesson, the backlash that followed, and how that classroom moment became part of a much larger national conversation. He also discusses founding LGBTQ History Month and why visibility alongside Black History Month and Women’s History Month still matters today.Chris opens up about screen testing while nearly out of money, being flown to New York overnight, and learning from executive producer Felicia Behr that the show was about to tell a story unlike anything daytime television had done before. He reflects on Alicia Coppola’s encouragement to take the role, the death threats and backlash that followed, the support he received from viewers, and the lasting lessons he learned from his father about integrity and courage.Together, they revisit a story that earned critical acclaim, changed daytime television, and continues to resonate three decades later.
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  Alan Locher sat down with Beyond the Gates stars Ambyr Michelle and Trisha Mann-Grant to talk about their mother-daughter dynamic, Black History Month, faith, and Ambyr’s new book Built in the Chaos. 10.03.2026 1Std. 7Min.

  On this episode of The Locher Room, Alan Locher sat down with Ambyr Michelle and Trisha Mann-Grant, who star as Eva and Leslie Thomas on CBS’s Beyond the Gates.Fresh from the set, Ambyr and Trisha talked about building their on-screen mother-daughter dynamic, the audition and screen test process, and what it’s been like stepping into a brand-new daytime series led by an all-Black cast with many Black creatives behind the scenes.The conversation also touched on Black History Month and the significance of Beyond the Gates receiving an NAACP Image Award nomination in its first year on the air. Ambyr shared details about her new book, Built in the Chaos, out now, and the creative and spiritual journey that led her to write it. Trisha reflected on her 2018 book, Amazing Testimonies, and spoke openly about faith, family, and the experiences that continue to shape her life and work, including a powerful moment where she shared a message inspired by her son.From gratitude for the fans to purpose-driven storytelling, this was an honest and heartfelt conversation with two artists deeply grounded in their craft.