Author Episodes

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, writer, producer and director,Larry Charles , who has a new memoir out called “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter”. He’s known for a constellation of projects, such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Mad About You, Borat, The Dictator and The Comedians. We dive into Larry's journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood, discussing his work on iconic shows, as well as collaborations with the likes of Jerr...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author,Jim Murphy who wrote thebook “Inner Excellence.” We discuss Jim's journey, including his time as a professional baseball player, his mother's samurai heritage, and his transition to coaching. We explore his unique experiences, such as living in solitude in the desert to write, “Inner Excellence,” which gained significant attention when Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown was seen reading it on the sidelines during a playoff game. ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Ione Skye, who has a new memoir out called “Say Everything.” Ione is an 80’s movie icon, who appeared in numerous films, including the 80’s classic “Say Anything.” We discuss her new book, her journey in the film industry, and what it was like growing up in Hollywood. We cover her experiences with famous friends and family, such as her father, musician Donovan, as well as her relationships with accomplished musicians. This is a...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Hall of Fame sportscaster and author,Jim Lampley. He has a new memoir coming out called “It Happened!: A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television!” We cover Jim’s extensive career in sports broadcasting, including his early challenges in college, his unexpected path into sports journalism, and notable experiences covering events like the Olympics and major boxing matches. Lampley shares personal stories, such as growing up with his d...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with chef, restauranteur and author,Ben Ford from “Ford's Filling Station in Los Angeles!” We discuss Ben's illustrious culinary career, his upbringing as the son of actor Harrison Ford, and the origins and influences of his deep-rooted passion for cooking. We touch on the evolving landscape of the culinary industry, as well as the significance of creativity and craftsmanship. Ben also shares personal anecdotes and insights about his phil...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with journalist and author, Don Lemon. We know Don from his work on CNN, as well as The Don Lemon Show on YouTube. He’s got a new book out called “I Once Was Lost: My Search For God in America.” Don discusses his career trajectory, challenges, and aspirations. He shares his experiences working his way up in journalism, his decision to come out publicly as gay, and the impact of significant events like the George Floyd protests on his work. The conversation touches on Don's latest book, his perspectives on modern journalism, and his transition to independent media…and what’s “next” for Don Lemon. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:24 Don Lemon's Background and Career07:20 Writing and Publishing Books12:27 Reflections on Journalism and Media20:18 Life After CNN28:42 The Don Lemon Show and Independent Media37:38 Navigating the Competitive Media Landscape40:47 Maintaining Integrity in Independent Media49:59 Personal Journey and Faith51:55 C…

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, DJ and author, Kristian Nairn, who has a new memoir out called“Beyond The Throne!” Kristian is known for his work on Game of Thrones and Our Flag Means Death, as well as his work as a DJ and mixer. We discuss the cultural impact of Game of Thrones, as well as the creative process behind being a DJ and authoring a book about his own life experiences. It’s a great conversation with Kristian’s as we touch on his reflections on se...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, actor, artist and entrepreneur, Moon Unit Zappa. She has a newmemoir out called “Earth to Moon!” Moon shares her experiences growing up in the unconventional Zappa household, revealing the impact of her father, Frank Zappa’s creativity and discipline on her life. She also delves into her journey of self-discovery, the complexities of her family dynamics, and the betrayal she felt after her mother's death. We cover a range of ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Former FBI Director & Author, James Comey. Comey shares a humorous anecdote about a prank played on him in college, discusses his new crime novel “Westport”, and reflects on his career in law enforcement and government…as well as the challenges of having worked as the FBI Director during the Trump administration. He opens up about his motivations, personal experiences, and the impact of his work on his family. Comey talks about the i...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Shohreh Aghdashloo. We explore Shohreh’s journey from Iran to Hollywood, which is as captivating as her performances. Shohreh shares her early defiance against cultural norms and her celebrated career milestones, including her Academy Award-nominated and Emmy Award-winning roles. We discuss her parts in "The Expanse," "24," "Star Trek," “Renfield,” “X-Men” and her role as the voice of the dragon in the Netflix movie, “Damsel.”...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with legendary Sports Agent, Leigh Steinberg. We discuss some of the secrets of peak performance, athlete representation, and the economics of professional sports. Leigh has represented, and continues to represent, some of the biggest and most influential names in professional sports. Leigh shares the core principles that have shaped his career, offers insights into the revolutionary methods he's exploring to rehabilitate injured athletes...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Hollywood legend, George Stevens, Jr. He has enjoyed a seventy year career as a writer, producer and director. He also founded the American Film Institute (AFI) and co-created the Kennedy Center Honors. He has been friends with and consulted presidents from John F. Kennedy, through President Obama, who appointed him as Co-Chairman of the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities. He has received numerous Emmy, Writers Guild an...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with veteran talent agent and manager, Marc Guss. His career has had him representing celebrity talent at the William Morris Agency, to being a founding partner of voiceover talent management firm, ACM Talent. He has written a new book (Instincts of a Talent Agent: Entrepreneurial Takeaways From an Industry Insider). Whether you’re an actor or voiceover talent looking to up your game, or an entrepreneur who is always on the hunt for nugge...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson from the Hayden Planetarium. It was a great chat where we discussed his new book, “Welcome to The Universe in 3D: A Visual Tour.” We also discussed his origin story, his favorite sci-fi and more - including the chance meeting and collaboration with Seth MacFarlane that brought Cosmos back to TV. Neil is a great educator and guide to many that like to look up to the sky for inspiration. It was a plea...