New York Times bestselling author Neil Strauss joined the show to talk about the new paperback edition of “The Truth.” After a brief yet scintillating discussion about book royalties, we chatted about relationship issues, common denominators in failed partnerships, how childhood observations stay with you forever, and why his next book might be a parenting guide.
Ted Bell
Ted Bell called in to talk about his newest novel, the 10th in the Lord Alexander Hawke series, “Overkill.” We discussed his history in and love of Chicago, why it’s been three years since “Patriot,” how the film adaptation is progressing, how his books go over in Russia, and a potential Trump/Putin buddy comedy.
Steven Raichlen
It’s always great to chat with Barbecue Hall-of-Famer Steven Raichlen, who called in to talk about his new book and upcoming PBS series “Project Fire.” Every time Steve calls in, I get excited about trying a new recipe or technique. Can’t wait to give the Caveman Porterhouse a try!
Marcia Gay Harden
Oscar and Tony Award-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden called in to discuss her new memoir, “The Seasons of My Mother: A Memoir of Love, Family, and Flowers,” which celebrates her mom, Beverly, who battles Alzheimer’s Disease. We discussed her journey in writing the book, the relationship of Japanese flower arranging to her own story as well as her mother’s, and the potentials and pitfalls of genetic testing for Alzheimer’s.
Andrew Revkin
Andrew Revkin, the Strategic Adviser for Environmental and Science Journalism for National Geographic Society, called into discuss his new book “Weather: An Illustrated History.”
Follow @bigwakeupcallMark McKinney
Comedy legend Mark McKinney made a triumphant return appearance to the show to talk about the season 3 finale of “Superstore.” We discussed the development of his character “Glenn,” including the nuances of the St. Louis accent and how it was based on my St. Louis-raised-wife’s next-door neighbor. Mark and I also made plans to attend a White Sox game this summer and share some mac and cheese, ketchup, and tapeworm food.
Mike Nesmith
Mike Nesmith returned to the show to discuss the new paperback edition of his memoir “Infinite Tuesday: An Autobiographical Riff,” to promote his upcoming tour with Micky Dolenz, “The Monkees Present the Mike and Micky Show,” and to tactfully handle my request of tickets in exchange for a home-cooked meal.
The World News Center’s Sexy Anime Robot Bees
In his weekly visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick called in with some thoughts about his time at c2e2. We also discussed banning & burning books and media and shared some live listener feedback. Plus: Sexy anime robot bees, more on the real-life Iron Man suit, and getting me closer to an Adamantium skeleton.
Follow @bigwakeupcallBrett Tutor
Brett Tutor is the newest member of the crew on “Trading Spaces,” which has returned to TLC with new episodes Saturday nights at 8/7c. Brett talked about hazing the newcomer, how his career as a singer, stuntman, survival specialist, and Air Force veteran led him to the show, and handling surprise requests from Ty Pennington.
Ronald Bell
Ronald Bell, founding member of Kool and the Gang, called in to promote the band’s appearance on the upcoming Ultimate Disco Cruise. We also discussed sampling, songwriting, and a write-in campaign to get Kool and the Gang into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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