WELCOME TO THE SHOW
My name is Steve Owens and I meet a lot of people; sometime in my travels, sometimes in my own home town. Several times (quite by accident), I have stumbled into what I consider to be fascinating stories. So after way too many got away, I decided to start recording them. Some of these conversations will be fascinating ONLY to me. Some will be fascinating to you too. In the end, I guess this podcast is just an excuse for me to get to travel, meet, and talk to more people. So if you are so inclined…
Walk with me, down Fascination Street!
Recent Episodes
Randee Dawn – Author (The Only Song Worth Singing / Tune In Tomorrow)
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Randee Dawn. Take a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know Randee dawn. Randee is a journalist and author. In this episode we get to know Randee from her early days in Bensonhurst Brookly, to her NPR day, and even her beginnings as a music journalist. Randee shares stories about working with The Trashcan Sinatras, and Adam Schlesinger. She tells us about how her music fan attitude led to her working with the band Ivy, which turned into some really fascinating online blog projects. Then we discuss how she came to write for Alternative Press magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, and Soap Opera Digest, basically at the same time. In her soap opera journalism career, she covered: One Life To Live, Another World, and maybe just a bit on Passions!. Naturally I ask her about her interviewing Vincent D’Onofrio about the Forest Witaker TV show The Godfather of Harlem. Even though Randee made a bit of a name for herself writing Law & Order speculative fiction, that didn’t come up in her interview with Vincent. Finally, we dive into Randee’s books! Besides having developed an audience in the speculative fiction area, Randee Dawn has written a bunch of books. Her fun and dynamic storytelling has gotten her multiple novels published in a relatively short period of time. ‘Tune In Tomorrow’, ‘Don’t Touch That Dial’, ‘Leave No Trace’, and ‘The Only Song Worth Singing’ have catapulted Randee into a new level of popularity. These novels have become so popular that the publishers are dying for more! Check out all of her work at RandeeDawn.com and find her on all the socials at Randee Dawn. Randee continues to write for Today.com, Variety, The Envelope, and The L.A. Times.
Eric & Eliza Roberts – Actors in Love!
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Eric & Eliza Roberts
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know Eric & Eliza Roberts. You know Eric from over 800 acting projects: including The Pope Of Greenwich Village, Runaway Train, The Specialist, The Righteous Gemstones, Star 80, King of the Gypsies, and several hundred more. You know his wife Eliza from many, many projects like: The Howdy Doody Show, Animal House, Lois & Clark, and Dr. Who; as well as casting and producing in a myriad of other film and television projects. In this episode, we get to know where and how each of them grew up, and what got them into the industry. We also get to hear their love story. I love finding out how couples met, and this is a great story! Next, we launch into everything from movies and TV shows, and their experiences on those sets. Eliza shares stories of trying to help spouses & girlfriends of actors feel more comfortable with their partners doing love scenes. Eric shares behind the scenes stories on the sets of The Specialist (with Sylvester Stallone), and The Expendables. Eric then gets Eliza to share stories of helping get George Clooney cast in E.R, and even helping to convince John Travolta to accept his role in Quinton Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction! We discuss Eliza’s kids (Eric’s step kids); one has Pi Bakeshop in Los Angeles, and the other is a VERY accomplished musician. Naturally, we discuss Eric’s experiences on the most recent season of Dancing With The Stars, and Eliza explains how KISS’s Gene Simmons helped shorten Eric’s time in the competition. Lastly, we talk about the book! ‘Runaway Train: Or, The Story Of My Life So Far’ is Eric Robert’s memoir (with Sam Kashner). We chat about why he decided to write the book, and how much help Eliza was in getting him to do it, and actually getting it made. This is a real Hollywood POWER COUPLE! They share the workload, and the credit. It was super sweet getting to see them pass the credit to each other.
Kevin Brewer – Mindset & Weight Loss Coach
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Kevin Brewer
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Kevin Brewer. Kevin is a U.S. Navy veteran, who served for 7 years in multiple overseas duty stations; before being employed by both the Department of Justice (DOJ) & the Department of Defense (DOD). In this episode, we chat about why he joined the Navy, and what his job was in it. We discuss his duties as a cryptologic technician, and what his role was in narco terrorism, money laundering, drug trafficking, counterintelligence, and counter terrorism. Kevin has Top Secret security clearance, and I ask him to tell me all of the secrets! He politely declines, and then we move onto his health issues. While serving in Afghanistan, Kevin developed several serious health issues which culminated in his gaining nearly 100 pounds, and an inability to exercise, run, or even walk to the refrigerator. He was in a pretty dark place both physically and emotionally. He ended up doing a ton of online research and began to figure out some things that turned his health around. Kevin changed his diet, adjusted his mindset, and sought out specialized STEM CELL treatment. Slowly things began to change. Kevin lost some weight, started narrowing down the food items that were triggering him and causing inflammation, and eventually lost the weight. He gives most of the credit to a change in his mental performance and adjusting his perspective. Now Kevin has acquired a depth of understanding with regard to ‘Mental Performance Mastery’ & ‘Heroic Performance’, as well as regularly competing in Spartan Races. Kevin’s new mission is to share what he has learned and spread the knowledge he has gained during this process. He has a daily affirmation podcast called RISE AGAIN FROM THE STRUGGLE, which has released nearly a thousand 1–2-minute episodes of encouragement & inspiration. Follow Kevin on Instagram at Coach Kevin Brewer and check out his podcast everywhere podcasts are available.
Jonathan Grossman (Johnny Keys) – Keyboard (Uncle Lucius / Sleepy Jon / The Guthrie Girls)
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Jonathan Grossman
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Jonathan Grossman. Known in some circles as Johnny Keys; Jon is the keyboard player for the rock band Uncle Lucius. Jon is from Kentucky, and how he became part of this kickass south Texas band is a good story, I get him to tell it to me in this episode. We discuss his growing up in Lexington and what he was doing after school before the universe aligned, and Uncle Lucius rolled into his town. We also chat about other bands that have keyboard players in them, and even some fake movie bands that do. Uncle Lucius took a bit of a break a few years ago, and then through a series of magical events, they were almost forced back together. The television show Yellowstone happened to feature an Uncle Lucius song in the fourth episode of the first season. The song caught fire all over again and made the band look into getting back together to see what they had left in the tank. As it turns out, they had quite a lot. Since then, they have released 3 more albums and just recorded yet another one a few weeks ago live at Gruene Hall. I ask Jon about the royalty implications of having a song blow up on a TV show like that, and he gives HUGE props to Austin attorney Gwendolyn Seale! One of their more recent albums is called ‘Like It’s The Last One Left’ and features one of my favorite Uncle Lucius songs (All the Angelenos). Jon is gracious enough to let me play that song, and their massive hit (from Yellowstone) called Keep the Wolve Away. Naturally, we talk about the live show at Gruene Hall, why they haven’t headlined at world famous Stubb’s in Austin, and Uncle Lucius’ insane touring schedule. We end the show talking about some of Jon’s other work. He releases music under the name ‘Sleepy Jon’, as well as performing live at Sam’s Town Point (south of Austin) EVERY Wednesday that Uncle Lucius is in town. Three members of Uncle Lucius are in this weekly performing band with some of Arlo Guthrie’s daughters. The band is called The Guthrie Girls. For tour dates and new album information, check out YourUncleLucius.com
Frank Meyer – Filmmaker / Author/ Musician (Frank Meyer / The Street Walkin’ Cheetahs)
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Frank Meyer Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Frank Meyer. Frank has been a staple in the film, television & punk scene for the past 30+ years. In this episode, we chat about his growing up with some of the most supportive parents of their era. Frank’s folks not only supported his hopes and dreams, but they also even took him to see some of the most iconic acts of all time. Frank recounts stories of seeing The Blues Brothers live, and even Eddie Murphy’s Raw & Delirious shows. Then we get into some of Frank’s work in television & film. Having spent several years with the G4 channel, Frank was an early podcaster with a very cool insight into the format. We bounce all over the place in this one. Frank shares stories of his antics with some of music’s greats; like Cherie Currie, David Lee Roth, Dave Mustane, Van Halen, and Eddie Spaghetti. I get him to explain why he wrote books about Phil Spector, The Ramones, and even his series From Dude To Dad. Frank not only has his own bands: Frank Meyer & The Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs here in the US, but also Trading Aces in Europe! Plus, he plays with FEAR, Cherie Currie, Range War, and Handsome Dick Manitoba’s The Dictators. Fun stories involving The Stooges, and being a good hang. Frank even made documentaries about his buddy Hell Razah, and another one about Hip Hop 101. Check those out everywhere documentaries are available! Finally, we discuss Frank’s debut solo album Living Between The Lines. I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t ask to play my favorite track from the album (Blue Radio)! Wu Tang Clan, Drew Barrymore, Eddie Spaghetti, and Keel stories abound!!
J. R. Stokes – Filmmaker (Edge X)
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J. R. Stokes
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know filmmaker J.R. Stokes. J.R. is a writer, director, actor, producer from Staten Island, NY. In this episode, we chat about growing up in SINY, and what made him want to become a filmmaker. He shares stories of making his first Machinimas, and a short film or two leading up to his debut full length film. His previous short ‘Headstone of Solitude’ gave him the experience and the confidence to make his first feature film. During high school, J. R. developed what would become his initial full-length effort: ‘Edge X’. As we discuss his latest project, we dive into what he decided to make a full-length feature film fresh out of high school, and why he chose such dark subject matter. He is also kind enough to share how a high schooler is able to afford to make a full-length feature film, so take notes! ‘Edge X’ is a film about adolescent drug addiction, and its pitfalls. In their first film; ‘Edge X’ stars: Cadence Meier, Alexandra Totillo, Randall Krauss, J. R. Stokes, and several others. This film is available FOR FREE on YouTube, as long as you have a registered YT account. Fair warning… ‘Edge X’ centers around intense drug use and has themes of violence & despair. This is a very dark film, but it is a good film. In my opinion, the production and cope of this film show a much more mature filmmaker than the J. R.’s age would indicate. Check out his channel SidsCinematics on YouTube, and rate it on Letterboxed and IMDB… if you are so inclined. But more than that; follow him on the socials to see what he has coming up next. I’m sure it will be a great watch and tell him you heard him on Fascination Street Podcast!
The Dutch Kills – Rock Band
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The Dutch Kills Take a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know the Brooklyn based indie rock band The Dutch Kills. In this episode, we chat about how the band got together, and how involved NYU was in the process. The Dutch Kills consists of: Julia (vocals / guitar), Maxine (bass), Alec (guitar), and Heather (drums). We also discuss NYC as a whole, improv, the N train, to Astoria, and some community rehearsal spaces for NYC bands. The members are from all over the US, so we talk about why they left their towns of Fayetteville, Minneapolis, and Wilmington. We do mention Dawson’s Creek (Joey & Pacey Forever!), before moving into their actual music. Their debut EP, called The Rot, was released last year, and their new single Cheap Love was released last month. Look for new singles to drop in a month or two but keep tuned to their channels for more updates and tour info. Also, if you have a time machine, go back to last week and check out their several unofficial shows at SXSW in Austin. The band does let me play their newest single Cheap Love, and it’s a BANGER!
Bo Donaldson – Musician (Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods)
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Bo Donaldson
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Bo Donaldson. Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods had the number one song in America in June of 1974; with the timeless hit “Billy, Don’t Be a Hero”. They also had hits on the charts all throughout the 70’s. In this episode, we chat about how he got into music, and how his band came to be. Bo shares great stories about his mom deciding that she was going to meet Dick Clark and get him to make her son’s band famous…. and then she did it! We also discuss some of the band’s early days, where they opened for The Osmonds for over 300 shows. I pry just a bit into Bo’s personal life and try to get to the bottom of some of the rumors about him dating Valerie Bertinelli before Eddie Van Halen. Along the way, we chat about each of the charting hits for the band, other fun Dick Clark stories, some previous guests of this show, Bo’s real age, and why on earth he likes Cincinnati’s Skyline chili so darn much! Plus, he lets me play their number one hit, as well as a little-known television show theme song the band wrote at the request of Dick Clark. Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods are still playing occasional shows in and around Southern California, and they are even playing a show in Buffalo, Ny in July. Check BoDonaldsonAndTheHeywoods.com for everything about the band; including new music, and tour dates.
Gerry Rasmussen- Canadian Cartoonist (Betty)
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Gerry Rasmussen
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Canadian cartoonist Gerry Rasmussen. In this episode, we chat about how Gerry got into drawing, and how he started making money with his artistic skills while still in elementary school by selling on the spot drawings of ‘Denis the Menace’ to fellow school kids. Next, we get into how he met his co-creator, Gary Delainey at art school. Together, they produce a daily comic strip called ‘Betty’. They have been making this comic strip for nearly 50 years, and due to its runs in The Edmonton Journal, and other publications; it is one of the most recognized comics in Canada! Being featured on GoComics.com and syndicated by King Features doesn’t hurt either! ‘Betty’ has been popularized throughout modern popular culture for several decades; even a fun tie-in with The Edmonton Oilers hockey organization. We also touch on some of the children’s books Gerry has illustrated, such as ‘Sniffy the Beagle’ with author Rita Eagle; and the sports books: ‘Crazy About Hockey’, ‘Crazy About Soccer’, & ‘Crazy About Basketball’ by author Loris Lesynski. Finally, we discuss his passion for teaching art to kids and adults. In partnership with a couple of universities in and around Edmonton, Gerry teaches, draws, and motivates the next generation of art enthusiasts. If you happen to see him at Red Deer Polytechnic (formerly Red Deer College), or The Pygmalion School of Art, tell him you heard him on Fascination Street Podcast!
Special thanks to Gerry’s son Nils Rasmussen (Uncle Outrage) for turning me onto his spectacular father!
Chris Maher – Actor (Boardwalk Winter / Canyon of the Dead
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Chris Maher
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know Chris Maher. Chris is an actor who currently has 8 projects in either pre or post production. In this episode, we chat about his growing up in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and the long and winding path he took to find acting. After spending some post graduate time in China to study finance, and a stint in law school, Chris gets a call to become a runway model. This led to some work in commercials, and eventually roles in short & feature films. We cover his entire journey from traveling the world with his school choir, to his time in China, Chicago, and Miami. Coincidently, we each share a story about Power Rangers and Iowa. Finally, we discuss each of his 8 forthcoming projects. I ask him about all of them, which takes us on several detours. Some of his friends and co stars are previous guests of the show. This episode was recorded about a week before the premier of his new film Boardwalk Winter. Keep your eyes peeled for this fella! Many of these projects are coming out soon, and some are out now. Find him in film & TV, just about everywhere! I hope I didn’t make it too weird for him in his FIRST podcast interview!
Look for Chris in:
Rescue: Hawaii Surf (TV)
Canyon of the Dead (film)
Desert Dawn (film)
FTX: Descent into Madness
Division (a short film)
Boardwalk Winter (film)
No Dogs Die
Vindicator
The Lost Keys
Lover, Stalker, Killer
Bleeding Heart
Nova