Mon Oct 26, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com


Michael Gossard - ACIDIC
ACIDIC is an amazing young L.A. band playing original alt/rock music, that you really must see live. Battle-of-the-Bands judges have characterized lead singer/guitarist Michael Gossard as a front man "larger than life." Seventeen-year-old Mike has known bassist/vocalist Ted Dubrawski since they were kids at the same elementary school. Ted, who's 19, is an accomplished surfer and is enrolled in the prestigious Musicians Institute where he’s learning be a “luthier” - a craftsman who builds guitars. Nineteen-year-old drummer Matt Whitaker is a cancer survivor, having beaten childhood leukemia when he was seven. He's a sophomore at LMU. Guitarist/vocalist Michael Thompson is 19 and officially the eldest of the group - by about a month. He’s presently a sophomore at Pierce College. ACIDIC puts on a muscular stage show with catchy, memorable songs, compelling vocals, and power riffs that make you want to floor it if you¹re driving! They quickly moved up to bookings on major Saturday night line-ups at the world-famous Whisky a Go Go, recently cracked open the landmark House of Blues on the Sunset Strip, and were featured performers at the 2009 NAMM Show. They are sponsored by Minarik Guitars, Souldier Straps and Stash Picks. They're actively involved in charity work and donate their onstage talents and proceeds from their CD sales to a variety of causes ­ through their own charity effort, "Help Us Help." They have a new 12-song CD release, "Ironic Dreams," available now through www.acidicband.com . ACIDIC's latest coup is playing the Main Stage at Bamboozle Left at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Irvine! They're sharing the proceeds of their CD sales at that event with the One Love for Chi Foundation: http://www.oneloveforchi.com/ to help defray the costs of medical care for Deftones bass player Chi Cheng, who was seriously injured in a car accident last November. Lead singer Michael Gossard has appeared in several bands before forming ACIDIC, toured the East Coast, played live concert performances as a guitarist and bass player, appeared in films, TV, music videos, musical theater, and various benefits. He’s a member of SAG and AFTRA. As a member of the Ventura County rock powerhouse Feisty Piranhas, he opened for the Misfits and Blue Oyster Cult. Michael may be the only artist to have played the NAMM Show two years in a row.

Trigg Ison "Trigg Ison Fine Art"
Who really knows the soul of an artist? The nuances within a personality, sometimes existing in harmony, many times in states of extreme conflict; all reflected within the artist’s actual painting. Chuck Connelly emerged as a favorite within the American art world during the neo-expressionist movement of the 1980’s with promise of becoming one of the next inspiring heroes of art and American art culture as a master class American painter. His paintings were represented by some of the most significant galleries in New York, including Annina Nosei Gallery where Connelly paintings were exhibited alongside Jean-Michel Basquiat, Robert Rauschenberg and Julian Schnabel. In 1989, the paintings of Connelly were prominently featured in Martin Scorsese's film, "New York Stories: Life Lessons," and and work by Chuck Connelly was acquired for the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.Although Connelly enjoyed success in the 1980’s he never achieved his true potential due to his self destructive behavior that alienated those around him. Our first exposure to the paintings of Chuck Connelly was in Director Jeff Stimmel’s 2008 HBO film, “The Art of Failure: Chuck Connelly: Not for Sale,” which has now won an Emmy Award. The paintings were incredible, executed in myriad styles, textures and pallets, each demonstrating an extremely high and consistent level of intellect and talent. Captivated, and intent on bringing to the world's attention this stunning body of work, the galleries efforts now culminate with this exhibition of more than thirty original oil paintings, each hand selected directly from the artist's personal lifetime collection. Our exhibition begins with some extremely rare early painting by Chuck Connelly as well as his alter ego, "Fred Scaboda", the artist's self portrait at age 22, painted in 1976, followed by an existential composition, “The Drain”, 1985, which dares us to explore our own consciousness and our relationship to time, space and the universe. We are pleased to be presenting the exhibition as a retrospective with paintings from progressive periods of the artist's career, many of these paintings are indeed lifetime masterpieces. The paintings exist through thematic motifs which provoke thought, question and/or a response. A canvas painted by Chuck Connelly is a fascinating exploration, and in many cases, an insightful journey. Chuck Connelly is now prepared to take his place in history as one of most creative, unique and prolific living American artists. It is our pleasure to welcome the artist and his paintings to West Hollywood for his first west coast retrospective exhibition.”

Ingrid Dean "Spirit of the Badge: 60 True Police Stories of Divine Guidance, Miracles, & Intuition" Cops are often guided by something that's difficult to express in words. Angels? Spirit? Divine Intervention? We're not always sure! However, the 60 true police stories that make up "Spirit of the Badge" leave no room for doubt. We are bigger than we think we are. Every day police officers can face life-or-death situations that can call for decisions made in the blink of an eye. There's often no time for reasoning. So cops learn to trust their guts. The results, as related in these true stories, will amaze, astound and fascinate you. They will leave you with a new appreciation for our powers of intuition. You might call these stories divine inspiration, intuition, or miracles. If you're a police officer, or other first responder, these stories may bring to mind personal experiences where you were driven by split-second, gut decisions. This book is a creative compilation of unusual, moving, and exceptional moments as experienced by police officers in their daily work. Much of the world views police officers as authoritarian, or militaristic, or somehow different. The heart-felt police stories in this book demonstrate their humanness and selfless desire to serve, from the core of their beings.

Gloria Allred "Sexting"
Gloria Allred is the most famous female attorney practicing law in the nation today, a tireless and successful advocate whose high-profile legal battles on behalf of victims whose rights have been violated have led to many landmark precedent-setting court decisions. Voted by her peers as one of the best lawyers in America, and described by Time magazine as "one of the nation's most effective advocates of family rights and feminist causes," Allred has devoted her career to fighting for civil rights across boundaries of gender, race, age and social class.Gloria Allred is a founding partner of Allred, Maroko & Goldberg, one of the pre-eminent plaintiff civil law firms in the country, which has won national prominence through many precedent-setting cases. All across the country boys and girls are using the built in cameras on their cell phones to take nude and semi-nude shots of themselves and sending them to boyfriends, girlfriends, friends, or classmates. It’s called “sexting.” And while they may just consider it to be high tech flirting, many teens have no idea that the practice is actually considered to be pornography and has very serious consequences. In some recent cases, young people were registered as sex offenders as a result of sending these types of text messages, a stigma that could haunt them the rest of their lives. According to a report from Cox Communications and the NationalCenter for Missing and Exploited Children, about one in five teens have engaged in sexting, and over a third know of a friend who has sent or received a sext. And, perhaps most disturbingly, about 1 in 10 sext senders say they have sent them to people they don’t even know. In light of these alarming revelations, a new survey from Lawyers.com is expected to reveal whether parents are aware of the practice and understand the dangers and legal consequences associated with this x-rated activity. Renowned attorney, Gloria Allred, is available to talk about the news survey findings and provide tips on how parents can protect their teen from the emotional and legal damages. She says that parents can be part of the solution in curbing the problem and is available for interviews on October 26 to share what they can do to get through to their kids on this important issue.

Thu Oct 22, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com

Torina Salcedo - Halloween costume and entertaining expert
Torina has her finger on the pulse of everything hot for Halloween – from costumes to home décor and everything in between. As the National Costume Consultant for the (Savers/Value Village) thrift store chain, Torina has more than 10 years of experience outfitting Halloween revelers in the most authentic looks for this haunted holiday. As part of her role, Torina investigates shifting Halloween trends and helps oversee all the holiday’s merchandise, to ensure shoppers can choose among the hottest looks, creative concoctions and more. What will roam the streets in 2009? Pop culture and blockbusters continue to reign supreme this Halloween, as well as humorous looks and themed costumes for couples and families. Salcedo will give us the inside track on some of this year’s best bets, and how to easily pull it all together for just a few dollars. Go-green and DIY Costumes: Going green on Halloween means more than dressing up like a wicked witch. Torina will tell you how to score environmentally (and budget) friendly Halloween costumes and décor this holiday. Halloween home décor items and party paraphernalia: Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, which translates to plenty of parties. Torina will give tips on how to host a bash on a budget.

Christopher Flores "Windows Seven Launch"
On Thursday October 22nd, the highly anticipated Windows 7 is set to launch. On this date, we will be live with Christopher Flores, the Director of Windows 7 to discuss the new features of the program and the differences between the last edition. Your PC, simplified We designed Windows 7 to simplify your everyday tasks, work the way you want, and make new things possible


YVETTE NICOLE BROWN ("Shirley" on NBC's "Community")
Yvette Nicole Brown stars as Shirley, a sassy middle-aged divorce, in NBC's new comedy series "Community." As a young girl growing up in East Cleveland, Ohio, Brown dreamed of a career on stage and screen. She began her entertainment career as a vocalist while still in her teens, when after an impromptu audition for Michael Bivins (New Edition; Bell Biv DeVoe) she was signed to Motown Records as a part of the East Coast Family, a group of new talents that included Boyz II Men. Brown was featured on the Motown album, The East Coast Family Vol.1, which included the Top 20 single, "1-4-All-4-1." As a part of the East Coast Family, Brown appeared on MTV, Showtime at the Apollo, Vh1 and BET, while simultaneously completing coursework that led to a bachelor of fine & applied arts degree from the University of Akron. Following graduation, she packed her bags and moved to Los Angeles. In just a short time, Brown has emerged as one of the most sought-after character actresses in Hollywood, highlighted by memorable appearances on numerous hit TV shows, including: "House," "Entourage," "The Office," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Two and a Half Men," "Malcolm in the Middle," "7th Heaven," "Fat Actress," "Til Death," "That's So Raven," "Rules of Engagement," "Privileged" and "That 70s Show" among others. In addition, she has had recurring roles on "Boston Legal," "Girlfriends," "Sleeper Cell," "Half & Half" and "Drake & Josh." She also was a series regular on "The Big House." In 2004, Brown made her feature film debut opposite Brittany Murphy, Holly Hunter and Kathy Bates in the hit romantic comedy "Little Black Book." The following year, she returned to the big screen in the Michael Bay action film "The Island," co-starring Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson. Other film credits include roles in the Academy Award-winning adaptation of "Dreamgirls," the comedy "The Kid & I," and most recently, supporting roles in "Meet Dave," opposite Eddie Murphy, and "Tropic Thunder," directed by Ben Stiller and starring Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black and Matthew McConaughey, and "Hotel for Dogs," alongside Emma Roberts, Don Cheadle and Lisa Kudrow. In 2008, Brown reprised her role as "Helen" in the telefilm "Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh," and she can be seen in the upcoming theatrical releases: "The Ugly Truth" with Gerard Butler, Katherine Heigl, and Cheryl Hines; "Repossession Mambo," opposite Jude Law and Forest Whitaker; and "500 Days of Summer" with Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Brown lives in Los Angeles and in her free time loves to read, knit, write music and watch TV. THURSDAYS 8 PM ET/PT ON NBC.

EVAN FARMER - TLC HOST
Evan Farmer brings a diverse array of talents to TLC's WHILE YOU WERE OUT as the host of the hit home design series. In addition to his music career and roles on screens large and small, Evan studied architecture at Tulane University and has worked as both a draftsman and as a graphic designer for several firms. He also recently started his own business (Renovolution) renovating single-family homes, and has a strong interest in carpentry and design. Evan's on-camera presence, combined with his education and real-life experiences, make him a perfect fit to host WHILE YOU WERE OUT. Evan is well known for his television role in which he portrayed heartthrob Jerry O'Keefe in MTV's smash-hit made-for-television movie, 2GE+HER. He also recorded the lead vocals for the soundtrack and follow-up album, which together went platinum worldwide. The success of the movie spawned a weekly MTV series of the same name, with Evan continuing in the lead role. Evan has also guest hosted MTV's Total Request Live with Carson Daly, the cable network's most-watched television show. The popularity of 2GE+HER led Evan to an even bigger showcase for his talent — as the opening act for Britney Spears during her 2000 "Oops I Did It Again" summer tour. Evan also previously toured with the hit Russian pop rock group NA-NA, where he sang and played guitar in sold-out arenas throughout Russia. Evan also has a film career, and has acted in films such as Austin Powers 3: Goldmember, and Shaft Returns starring Samuel L. Jackson. Evan's small screen credits include guest-star roles on the television series JAG, and a recurring role on CBS' The Guiding Light. Evan also lent his voice talent to the popular MTV animated comedy series Daria, for three years. Evan Farmer is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and is currently single and living in New York City.

Sharon Robinson - (Jackie Robinson's daughter)
-- the only daughter of baseball great Jackie Robinson--will be stopping in the Los Angeles area for school and library visits from Oct 20-24 as part of her 6-city nationwide tour to promote TESTING THE ICE: A TRUE STORY ABOUT JACKIE ROBINSON (Scholastic, Oct 2009). The book, intended for children of all ages, is illustrated by acclaimed artist Kadir Nelson. TESTING THE ICE is Sharon Robinson's first picture book, and it shows a very personal side of her father, who is remembered by most as a baseball legend and civil rights pioneer--but to Sharon, he was Dad. You may have caught interviews with her on "Good Morning America" and NPR's "Morning Edition." In addition to her career as an author, she speaks all over the country as part of her work with Major League Baseball's "Breaking Barriers" program.

Mon Oct 19, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com

Daymond John ABC's "Shark Tank"
A success story, an industry leader, a young entrepreneur, a man who has reached and surpassed new heights of commercial and financial success, just a fraction of classifications used to describe Daymond John, CEO and founder of multi-million dollar fashion empire FUBU The Collection. Daymond possesses the capability knowledge, insight and approachable demeanor which allow him to successfully achieve any goals set forth before him, as well as nurture others to do the same. Changing fashion and the face of American business with FUBU was only the beginning. What started initially with unbridled perseverance and a dream of catering to a market otherwise ignored, quickly transformed into a business venture, and eventual enterprise, worthy of the multitude of accolades and awards it has received. Some such prestigious awards: Brandweek Marketer of the Year (1999), Advertising Age Marketing 1000 Award presented to Daymond for outstanding ad campaign (1999), NAACP Entrepreneurs of the Year award (1999), Crain's Business of Forty Under Forty Award presented to Daymond (2002) and Ernst & Young New York Entrepreneur of the Year award (2003). Daymond John is a true business leader. He really represents a strong African-American business leader on ABC’s Shark Tank show airing tonight and every Sunday on ABC. Most people do not realize how much of a true shark Mr. John is and I mean that in a good way. Don’t just learn from him and the other great show hosts as there’s not enough time on the show to truly understand the power of Daymond John and what he has done to the urban landscape in America and worldwide. To truly dive into the mind of Daymond John, his book Display of Power is a must read for all entrepreneurs who want to start, develop, and grow a brand. Mr. John and his companies control several large name brand clothing brands in the United States and abroad. The brands under his tutelage, control, and influence include FUBU, COOGI, Heatherette, and Drunkn Munky. Most African Americans know Mr. Daymond John from FUBU as most of us at some point have worn some lime green, red, yellow, or orange jeans back in the day. He continues his clothing line now with COOGI and other offerings. The most important aspect of learning about Daymond John lies in what he knows and teaches about personal power and brand management. For true business marketing, you do not need to be on the ABC Shark Tank show. You can find out everything online and learn how Daymond John builds brands from his web properties. Follow the leader. Do it now.

Chris Carmichael "Lance Armstrong" Coach
Chris Carmichael is the founder and CEO of Carmichael Training Systems, Inc. (CTS) and personal coach to cancer survivor and seven-time Tour de France Champion Lance Armstrong. Named the US Olympic Committee’s Coach of the Year in 1999, Chris formed CTS in 2000 after spending more than two decades in the sport of cycling. Through Chris’s leadership, CTS immediately established itself as the premier destination for personal fitness, nutrition, and performance coaching. To ensure that his message and coaching philosophy continue to be delivered at the highest level of quality, Chris created an unsurpassed education program that develops the highest-trained coaches in the industry. With a network of more than 100 coaches located throughout North American and beyond, the thousands of athletes working with CTS have full access to an unmatched base of knowledge and experience. Chris has also been very active in television, with appearances on the NBC Nightly News, The Today Show, CNN, 60 Minutes, The Discovery Channel, ABC’s World News Tonight, and other venues. From 2001-2005, he served a daily on-air commentator for the Outdoor Life Network’s (now Versus) Tour de France coverage.

Ernie Hudson "Heroes" NBC - Mondays 8-9 PM ET/PT
There are very few actors who can lay claim to a professional resume as long and varied as Ernie Hudson, but Hudson has always been a unique screen presence, capable of taking on any role. Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and raised by his grandmother in a tough neighborhood, a career as a performer seemed like an unlikely path for young Ernie Hudson, who was already married with a young son when he enrolled at Wayne State University as a Speech and English major. "Being an actor never occurred to me," Hudson recalls. "There was no one even remotely connected to the industry where I was from. It wasn't until I got to college that I realized how much I enjoyed it." Hudson's early ambition was to be a writer, and he for a time served as the resident playwright at Detroit's Concept East, the oldest black theater company in the country. Later, he founded Actors Ensemble Theater, where he and other black performers staged and appeared in their own original works. After attending Wayne State, Hudson accepted a full scholarship to the prestigious Master of Fine Arts Program at Yale University as a writer and acting student. This led to a number of regional theater roles and critical acclaim, and his feature film debut in "Leadbelly." "The thing that altered my life the most was when my first marriage ended and my two young sons came to live with me," Hudson remembers. His wife wanted to pursue her education, and it made sense for Hudson to bring the kids to California. At the time, Ernie, Jr. and Rahaman were 10 and 7 years old. "Thankfully, their mother taught them how to cook and clean and they were very self-sufficient," Hudson jokes. "I sent them away one summer and the house fell apart." Being a full-time dad to his kids enriched Hudson in unexpected ways: "They did as much raising me as I did them," he explains. "I grew up without having a father, and I wasn't really sure what that role was. They helped me find it." As a single father, Hudson quickly realized that earning a living as an actor was now a necessity, not just a dream. There were parts in feature films like "The Main Event" with Barbra Streisand, "The Jazz Singer" with Neil Diamond, and television projects like Abby Mann's acclaimed miniseries "King" and the highly-rated "Roots II." Hudson found himself alternating between film and television roles until 1983, when he was cast as Winston Zeddemore, the fourth member of the "Ghostbusters" team. The two "Ghostbusters" films gave Hudson a higher profile than he had ever known. He continued to work at a steady pace and began to get recognized on the street. "After doing so many different kinds of movies, I’ve found that the people who recognize me come from all walks of life, and everyone knows me from a completely different role." Hudson subsequently earned starring roles in films such as "Weeds" with Nick Nolte and "The Basketball Diaries" with Leonardo DiCaprio. When director Curtis Hanson ("L.A. Confidential") was making "The Hand that Rocks the Cradle," he cast Hudson in the pivotal role of Solomon. "After 'Ghostbusters,' a lot of people thought that I was a comedian, but doing more comedies wasn’t my goal," says Hudson. "Doing 'The Hand that Rocks the Cradle' reminded me of the fun I could have while exploring different facets of acting. I loved making that movie, and it also allowed me to re-establish myself as a dramatic actor." Another favorite role of Hudson's was in the thriller "Congo." "I never really envisioned myself as a leading man. The character in 'Congo' was my Ronald Colman character, the man who ran the show. After I saw my performance in that movie, I felt really good about what I was capable of achieving and what I had to offer as an actor." Hudson also singles out his role of Officer Albrecht in the 1994 thriller "The Crow" opposite the late Brandon Lee. Although Lee's death, a result of an on-set accident, is still a painful memory, Hudson remains proud of the movie. "I'm so glad we got to finish it because it really shows Brandon's enormous talent," he says. Hudson admits that two of his heroes growing up were Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee, and he remembers conversations with Brandon in which the young star said he hoped "The Crow" would establish his career apart from his father's legacy.
In 2003, Hudson appeared in Pulitzer Prize winning playwright August Wilson’s ”King Hedley II,” at the Penumbra Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Early in his career, Hudson made a splash starring in the Minneapolis production of “The Great White Hope.” Returning to Minneapolis to star in “Hedley” during the renowned Penumbra’s 25th season has led to accolades for Hudson, with local reviewers noting the “slick panache” and “butter smooth” approach he brings to the role of Elmore, a con artist. Kudos also followed him to the small screen. For his work on “Oz,” where he appeared as Warden Glynn for six seasons, Hudson won the International Press Academy Golden Satellite Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Drama Series. Another cherished recent role is that of the demanding principal in the Emmy nominated film “The Ron Clark Story” with Matthew Perry – a project Hudson felt compelled to do “because it was a story that needed to be told.” With his four sons now grown and out of the house – all of them enrolled in or graduated from college, and two with advanced degrees – Ernie Hudson can play a variety of different roles in every medium including recurring roles on popular series such as NBC’s “Heroes” and “Law and Order” or ABC Family’s “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” to theatre projects (e.g. this past spring 2009, Hudson starred on Broadway in Bartlett Sher’s Tony-winning production of August Wilson’s “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” at the Lincoln Center’s Belasco Theatre) to independent festival-circuit films (for instance, Hudson starred opposite Joe Mantegna and Jay Mohr in “Lonely Street,” “All Hat” with Keith Carradine and Rachael Lee Cook; “The Man in the Silo,” and Randall Miller’s “Nobel Son” and “Marilyn Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing and Charm School.” He has also starred in movies for television such as NBC’s “Meteor” and Hallmark’s miniseries “Final Approach” with Dean Cain and Anthony Michael Hall. When he's not working, Hudson likes to spend time relaxing at home, and remains committed to developing all facets of his creativity, including his writing. “I love working – telling stories and creating projects. I’m starting to write more, and I love theatre. As an actor, I’m trying to find challenging roles where I can give physically as well as emotionally. It’s a great time in my career; now, it’s about the joy and the fun of it.” “I’m very blessed. My wife and I have been together for 33 years, she balances my life out. It’s my acting career that has helped me hold my life together, and I’m just having a lot of fun.”

Jason Sheedy - "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon"
After a nationwide contest, Jason Sheedy was selected over hundreds of applicants to be a fall semester intern for the “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” show. Sheedy, a senior at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD), won Jimmy and producers over with his inspired movie trailer spoof videos. He will be interning for Fallon from his college campus and be responsible for blog entries for the show's website every other week (click here to view Jason’s first blog entry about his life at SCAD and several assignments from Jimmy where he will submit videos for the LNWJF audience to view. His first video assignment will air on Thursday, October 15th. Here is a link to a video of Jason Sheedy’s appearance on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon”: http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/blogs/2009/09/meet-the-intern-contest-winner-jason-sheedy/

Apolo Anton Ohno American Winter Olympians
One of the most famous American Winter Olympians of all time partially for his trademark soul patch and mostly for his Olympic pedigree, five-time Olympic medalist (two golds, one silver, and two bronze) and the one of only four Americans who has won three medals in a single Winter Olympics speed skater Apolo Anton Ohio has won an Olympic medal in every distance after bursting onto the skating scene when he snagged two medals at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Apolo is expected to add to his stash of medals from the last two Olympic Winter Games as he leads USA’s short track speed skating team. With only one more medal, Apolo will become the most decorated Winter Olympian in American history! The reigning United States champion since 2001, Apolo has won the men's national title 10 times and was the United States Olympic Committee's Male Athlete of the Month in October 2003 and March 2008. Named the U.S. Speedskating's Athlete of the Year for 2003, Apolo was a 2002, 2003, and 2006 finalist for the Sullivan Award which recognizes the best amateur athlete in the United States. Apolo also competed in and won the reality television show “Dancing with the Stars” with his partner Julianne Hough in 2007! A native of Seattle, Apolo is a photography enthusiastic who also enjoys inline skating, video games and dancing. One of America’s most beloved Winter Olympians~one of the most famous Winter Olympians of all-time, five-time Olympic medalist speedskater, and “Dancing with the Stars’” winner Apolo Anton Ohno will reveal to your viewers how they can tweet their way to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver in a viral twitter campaign that will send one lucky Team USA fan and a friend to the upcoming Winter Games! Apolo, who is currently prepping for the 2010 Winter Olympics, will share how your viewers can follow Apolo on Twitter from now through January in the “Tweet Your Way to the Olympics” campaign and enter to win a fabulous, customized trip for two to attend the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, meet Apolo, and support Team USA. To bring out the competition between Apolo and fellow Olympian snowboarder Lindsey Jacobellis who will be tweeting opposite Apolo, the Olympian with the most tweets will be rewarded with a donation to the Save the Children charity. In addition, Apolo will chat about the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and everything else happening in his career.

Thu OCT 15, 2009

Manoush Robin - TV Personality/Reporter
From 1995-2006, Manoush reported and produced for BBC News, based in Washington, Berlin, and New York. Her stories have also aired on NPR, ABC News, and AP Television. She is the co-founder of Hardy Robin Media, a New York-based consultancy that specializes in on-camera training and online video production. She lives in Brooklyn with her son and husband. discusses how technology can play a major role while nursing ourselves back to health should we get the flu or even just the common cold this season. There are a number of precautions that have already been suggested by the experts such as washing your hands, staying home, etc. But staying home can prove to be challenging for most people who are used to being busy at work and seeing friends/family. Robin will show your viewers the latest in technology that will help us nurse ourselves back to health, stay in touch with the rest of the world outside and even save us $$ in the long run by keeping us healthy. Some of these items include: • The Smart Pill Bottle – this very smart bottle will let you know when you forget to take your medication. Through wireless technology it will send info to your internet and let your healthcare provider, doctor, or anyone you designate know that you have taken your pills faithfully. This company even has a system that if you take your pills faithfully, they will pay your co-pay!!• Ringful – This technology will send allergen reports and updates throughout the day to your iPhone! Allowing you to keep track of your allergies no matter where you are! • Video eleconferencing/Webcams - Part of the Government’s Flu Implementation Plan is to use telecommunications and broadband connectivity-related solutions to continue working remotely from home and avoid physical proximity and therefore slow down any disease spread. Robin will show you the latest in these types of technology!• Free Phone Calling

Stephanie Nelson - Coupon Mom
Stephanie Nelson is The Coupon Mom™ and best-selling author of Greatest Secrets of the Coupon Mom. She holds a degree in finance and has ten years of experience in sales and marketing with both Procter & Gamble and Marriott Hotels. In 2001, she founded couponmom.com committed to helping consumers save money. Since 2004 she has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, NBC’s Today, Good Morning America, CBS Early Show, Fox Business, and CNN.Interview Source: Sam’s Club. New National Savings Study Takes the Guesswork Out of Comparison Shopping As tough economic times continue, many Americans are looking for smart ways to save money on frequently purchased items. Savings expert Stephanie Nelson, founder of CouponMom.com, reveals how consumers can save more than 30% on grocery goods, pet supplies and home improvement items resulting from a national savings study and urges them to participate in the Sam’s Club national savings challenge. You can even go online to calculate your savings with their new savings calculator. Make simple substitutions – know which items in a group are usually the least expensive. Bananas cost less than apples, so use more bananas instead of apples. Brown rice is less than white potatoes, so use more brown rice instead of potatoes in your menus. Shop Smart by planning ahead – create your menus and shopping lists according to best values and avoid impulse buying. Join a warehouse club – Sam’s Club commissioned an independent study that found members save on average $30 for every $100 spent on some of the most frequently purchased product categories for home and personal use versus traditional retailers. Forty percent on grocery goods as compared to traditional retailers! The average Sam’s Club Advantage Member saves more than $300.00 annually according to the study.

Sam Memmolo "Sam's Garage"
The government’s Cash for Clunkers program has ended. While it sparked a buying binge, reinvigorating for a time our nation’s auto industry, there are still a lot of people who didn’t, or couldn’t, take advantage. They are stuck with a clunker and are going to have to live it for as long as possible. According to Driverside.com, 82% of owners are keeping their cars longer than previously planned, so it’s important for your listeners to know about measures that may help keep their vehicle engines performing better longer. His tips will include: RECHARGE! The heat of summer is actually harder on your car’s battery than most other seasons. The smart thing to do is have your battery tested and inspected by a professional to ensure you’re not powerless and stuck in the cold when you least expect it. Sam hosts and produces syndicated "Sam's Garage Radio Show". The show provides consumers + shop owners with a wide spectrum of advice, industry news, and product awareness, all presented in an easy to listen to entertaining format. Syndication allows "SAM'S GARAGE" to be heard on 50 radio stations, and also via the internet. Sam is "The Name" in automotive talk radio, and has provided help and information for the past 18 years. Not many broadcasters have the luxury of both radio and television, but Sam does! Sam wrote and co-hosted the incredibly successful TV show "Shadetree Mechanic" on TNN. Shadetree Mechanic had a terrific run of 190 episodes spread over 8 years. Later Sam wrote and co-hosted "Crank and Chrome", also seen on TNN. Sam Memmolo, along with his pal Dave Bowman, set the benchmark for automotive TV programming. Crank and Chrome enjoyed 52 episodes. Next Sam went on to become Executive Producer and Host of "Two Guys Garage on SPEED. Two Guys Garage is still in production after 8 years on SPEED. Sam has also be seen with Dennis Gage on "My Classic Car" on SPEED and TNN alike.


Larry Harris - "And Party Everyday"
Larry Harris began working for Buddah/Kama Sutra Records in the summer of 1971 as the local New York promotions man, and in 1973 joined his cousin Neil Bogart in founding Casablanca Records. He became senior vice president and managing director of the company in 1976 and left Casablanca in the fall of 1980. Larry was born in New York and now lives and works in Seattle. Now it can be told! The true, behind-the-scenes story of Casablanca Records, from an eyewitness to the excess and insanity. Casablanca was not a product of the 1970s, it was the 1970s. From 1974 to 1980, the landscape of American culture was a banquet of hedonism and self-indulgence, and no person or company in that era was more emblematic of the times than Casablanca Records and its magnetic founder, Neil Bogart. From his daring first signing of KISS, through the discovery and superstardom of Donna Summer, the Village People, and funk master George Clinton and his circus of freaks, Parliament Funkadelic, to the descent into the manic world of disco, this book charts Bogart's meteoric success and eventual collapse under the weight of uncontrolled ego and hype. It is a compelling tale of ambition, greed, excess, and some of the era's biggest music acts.


Dr. Kenford Nedd - "The Time To Be Happy is Now"
Dr. Kenford Nedd, who previously wrote Power Over Stress, has just come out with a new book, The Time to Be Happy is Now, which details 52 proven techniques to overcome daily psychological and physiological problems in order to build a successful career and enjoyable life. "I have been practicing these techniques for more than 20 years with groups of executives, doctors and other professionals, all over North America," Dr. Nedd reports, "and all of those who adhered to the techniques got significant improvement in their ability to function, while reporting higher levels of happiness in their lives." The Time to Be Happy is Now One technique designed to help you keep your cool under trial involves instant relaxation – how to reverse negative emotional and physical stress in 11 seconds using a formula consisting of seven steps. Contracting certain muscles groups, breathing in through your nose and redirecting your circulation to designated parts of your body, are a part of the process. Another technique is designed to stimulate the chemistry of happiness by using your brain in new ways. A third teaches how smiling can change blood flow to the brain and how to use this knowledge to make yourself happier. The book emphasizes how to use your physiology to change your emotions, how to behave with the happiness of others in mind and how to deepen your connection to yourself, enlarge your circle of love and enrich your spiritual life. Dr. Steven Pratt, bestselling author of Superfoods Rx, declares, "Ken Nedd makes stress reduction more fun than anyone on the planet. He helps us, in a science-based, enjoyable fashion, learn to control the everyday stress which we all encounter." Joy Bramble, Senior Editor of The Baltimore Times, calls the book "inspiring, practical and uplifting," and Dr. Aziz Vellani dubs it "a must-read book with the power to change your life." Former St. Lucia Prime Minister Kenny D. Anthony believes that Dr. Nedd’s "practical, sensitive lessons on happiness touch the heart, inspire the soul and heal the broken spirit," concluding: "This book is just right for these times!" And Thomas J. Marrie, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Alberta, declares that The Time to Be Happy is Now is "A must-read for every medical student that will make the practice of medicine even more rewarding." Among other things, Dr. Nedd’s new book explains: how happiness changes body chemistry, how to acquire the biology of happiness, how the physiological state of happiness improves one’s ability to get a job and keep it, and how happiness and ideal work performance go hand in hand. It details what really happens to one’s body when it’s under stressoffers three types of techniques: how to deal with difficult situations and unpleasant people, how to heighten your emotional skill and build inner strength and how to use the stressors in your life to build a refined and integrated physiology and a happier life.―emotionally, chemically and physiologically. "If left unchecked, unhappiness can undo all the good things you do for your body—like exercise and proper diet—and even interfere with medical treatments," Nedd states. "By adopting these practical and easy-to-follow techniques, you can learn to take control and steer yourself to financial and social success, with a sound, clean, and happy mind." Born in the Caribbean nation of Antigua, Kenford Nedd earned his BS and MD degrees at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. He took post-graduate courses at UCLA and University of Chicago and headache and pain courses in London, Toronto and many U.S. cities. A member of the American Headache Society, Dr. Nedd has been in private practice for more than 20 years and is an acknowledged authority in Behavioral Medicine and Stress. For more than 18 years he has taught his stress-reduction techniques to organizations and corporations across North America, including the annual U.S. Conference of Mayors, American Airlines, The Canadian Medical Association, The Canadian Diabetes Association, AT&T, Pfizer, Blue Cross, Bayer Inc., Barclay’s Bank, Bristol Myers and Alcan. In 2004 he published the book Power Over Stress.

Tue Oct 13, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com


Dacre Stoker "Dracula: The Undead"
Dacre Stoker is the great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker. He lives in South Carolina with his family. At last--the sequel to Bram Stoker's classic novel Dracula, written by his direct descendant and a Dracula historian. Bram Stoker's Dracula is the prototypical horror novel, an inspiration for the world's seemingly limitless fascination with vampires. Though many have tried to replicate Stoker's horror classic- in books, television shows, and movies-only the 1931 Bela Lugosi film bore the Stoker family's support. Until now. Dracula The Un-Dead is a bone-chilling sequel based on Bram Stoker's own handwritten notes for characters and plot threads excised from the original edition. Dracula The Un-Dead begins in 1912, twenty-five years after Dracula "crumbled into dust." Van Helsing's protégé, Dr. Jack Seward, is now a disgraced morphine addict obsessed with stamping out evil across Europe. Meanwhile, an unknowing Quincey Harker, the grown son of Jonathan and Mina, leaves law school for the London stage, only to stumble upon the troubled production of "Dracula," directed and produced by Bram Stoker himself. The play plunges Quincey into the world of his parents' terrible secrets, but before he can confront them he experiences evil in a way he had never imagined. One by one, the band of heroes that defeated Dracula a quarter-century ago is being hunted down. Could it be that Dracula somehow survived their attack and is seeking revenge? Or is their another force at work whose relentless purpose is to destroy anything and anyone associated with Dracula? Dracula The Un-Dead is deeply researched, rich in character, thrills and scares, and lovingly crafted as both an extension and celebration of one of the most classic popular novels in literature.


Adam Penenberg "Viral Loop"
Adam L. Penenberg is a journalism professor and assistant director of the Business and Economic Program at New York University. He has written for publications that include Fast Company, Inc., Forbes, the New York Times, Slate, Wired, The Economist, and Mother Jones. He lives in Brooklyn. Here's something you may not know about today's Internet. Simply by designing your product the right way, you can build a flourishing business from scratch. No advertising or marketing budget, no need for a sales force, and venture capitalists will flock to throw money at you. Many of the most successful Web 2.0 companies, including MySpace, YouTube, eBay, and rising stars like Twitter and Flickr, are prime examples of what journalist Adam L. Penenberg calls a "viral loop"--to use it, you have to spread it. After all, what's the sense of being on Facebook if none of your friends are? The result: Never before has there been the potential to create wealth this fast, on this scale, and starting with so little. In this game-changing must-read, Penenberg tells the fascinating story of the entrepreneurs who first harnessed the unprecedented potential of viral loops to create the successful online businesses--some worth billions of dollars--that we have all grown to rely on. The trick is that they created something people really want, so much so that their customers happily spread the word about their product for them. All kinds of businesses--from the smallest start-ups to nonprofit organizations to the biggest multinational corporations--can use the paradigm-busting power of viral loops to enable their business through technology. Viral Loop is a must-read for any entrepreneur or business interested in uncorking viral loops to benefit their bottom line.


Sherry Paprocki "CIG to Branding Yourself"
Sherry Beck Paprocki is an award-winning writer and editor. She edits Columbus Monthly Homes and she has written for Preservation magazine, InStyle's Black Book section, the Chicago Tribune, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Philadelphia Inquirer, and the Los Angeles Times. A brand new look at a time-tested business practice. Using powerful techniques refined in the heat of business competition, this book guides readers in defining and building a personal brand that is distinctive, relevant, and consistent. It includes: • An in-depth understanding of the principles of successful brand building-in any context • Practical tools to build and manage powerful relationships • Strategies for aligning personal brand values with an employer's brand values, and making brand-building a successful endeavor for both • Advanced techniques to continually refine your unique personal brand.


Anthony Bozza "Why AC/DC Matters"
Anthony Bozza is the author of four New York Times Bestsellers, including Whatever You Say I Am: The Life and Times of Eminem, Slash, co-written with Slash and the #1 bestselling Too Fat to Fish, co-written with Artie Lange. Bozza was a staff writer and editor for Rolling Stone magazine for seven years, during which he profiled a diverse range of artists from Eminem and the Wu-Tang Clan to Trent Reznor and U2. He lives in New York City. Australian rock giants AC/DC have sold more records in the U.S. than Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, and than the Rolling Stones, yet have always been undervalued and unappreciated by mainstream rock music critics. In Why AC/DC Matters, former Rolling Stone staff writer and New York Times bestselling author Anthony Bozza addresses this inequity, penning a just tribute to these monsters of rock. Brimming with fascinating stories and insights from musicians, fans, music scholars, and the author himself, Why AC/DC Matters is an overdue homage to arguably the greatest rock and roll band of all time.


Writer/Director Robbie Bryan "IMURDERS"
A mysterious love triangle leads to a tragic shooting. Months later, eight members of a Myspace chat room are being gruesomely murdered in the privacy of their own homes. What is the connection? Sandra Wilson is a good place to start. The intelligent, 30-ish professional woman has a haunting past that may hold the key. The chilling truth however is that any one of the Myspace lurkers may hold the answer as to who is responsible for the grizzly killings taking place in this cyber world. Just in time for Halloween, Anchor Bay Entertainment – the undisputed leader in cult and classic horror home entertainment – will release the star-laden shocker iMurders. Street date is October 13, 2009. Pre-book date is September 10, with an SRP of $19.97. From the Producers of the cult hit "Jerome Bixby’s The Man From Earth" comes a horror thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. When the members of an online social networking website are brutally murdered in succession, one person's past holds the key to the gruesome mystery. As the number of survivors decreases, they begin to believe that the killer might be one of the group. This killer thriller features a star-studded cast including Gabrielle Anwar (“Burn Notice”), William Forsythe (The Devil’s Rejects, Rob Zombie’s Halloween), Emmy Award® nominee Billy Dee Williams (The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi), Scream Queen Brooke Lewis (The Sinatra Club),Tony Todd (Candyman, “24”), Saturn Award® winner Margaret Colin (“Gossip Girl,” Independence Day), Tony Award® winner Wilson Jermaine Heredia (Rent, “Medium”), Frank Grillo (“Prison Break,” “The Shield”) and two-time Academy Award® nominee, nine-time Emmy Award® nominee and Golden Globe Award® winner Charles Durning (Dog Day Afternoon, Tootsie). HorrorSociety.com called iMurders “a must-own film for those who like the suspense mystery flavor of horror movies!” The film marks the directorial debut of Robbie Bryan (producer and screenwriter of The Stand-In, co-producer of Jerome Bixby’s The Man from Earth) and has been screened at the Eerie Horror Film Festival, Shriekfest, the Big Apple Film Festival and the Downbeach Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award.



Fisher DeBerry "The Power of Influence: Life-changing Lessons from the Coach"
As head football coach for the United States Air Force Academy, Fisher DeBerry won three conference championships and led the Falcons to 12 bowl games. He has the most wins of any coach in the history of service academy football with a 23 year record of 169-109-1. DeBerry was named national coach of the year and was a three-time Western Athletic Conference coach of the year. So what is the secret of his success? The Power of Influence is a book that is full of top-flight testimony from more than 30 players and coaches from the remarkable Fisher DeBerry era of Air Force football. Contents include chapters by Chad Hennings, retired Dallas Cowboys star, Troy Calhoun, current head football coach at the Air Force Academy, Jim Bowman, one of the pillars of Air Force Academy athletics, and many other contributions from active duty and retired Air Force officers and those who transitioned into civilian life. In The Power of Influence, Coach DeBerry shares his coaching philosophy hinged upon the life-changing lessons and character values he strove to instill in his players. Faith, family, and football—these are the priorities that Fisher DeBerry worked so hard to impart to those under his care. With his down-home Southern humor and practical wisdom, DeBerry will prompt you to reflect on your own power as a role model and ponder the legacy you will leave behind. “Success in coaching is not measured by the number of wins and losses,” says Coach DeBerry. “Real success in coaching is measured by the kind of people your players become. I hope you love this book and enjoy reliving some great memories of Air Force football with many of the terrific players, coaches and staff members.” Proceeds from the sale of The Power of Influence will go to the Fisher DeBerry Foundation, dedicated to the support and education of kids from single-parent families. See more information at the website, www.fisherdeberryfoundation.org.

Tue Oct 06, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com

Gordon Zuckerman "The Sentinels: Fortunes of War"
Gordon Zuckerman, a graduate of Harvard Business School, has studied banking, international finance, and history extensively, focusing on how wealth and governmental machinations can advance private agendas that conflict with public interest. He lives with his wife in northern Nevada. In this riveting amalgam of political intrigue, poignant romance, and bare-knuckled action, six friends risk everything to thwart an international Nazi conspiracy. In the financial devastation of the 1930s, a greedy, power-hungry group of German industrialists plot to usher in the National Socialist Party in order to rearm Germany and reap the financial rewards. Thus rises Hitler. With Hitler in power, the Six Sentinels, graduates of an elite American doctoral program, uncover the industrialists' plan to hoard hundreds of millions of dollars in illegal war profits. Using their financial and familial connections around the globe, they work to foil the machinations of the financiers of the Third Reich. In a daring strategy of Robin Hood style thievery, the sentinels put their lives on the line to serve justice--and thus become embroiled in a dangerous and violent international conspiracy. A gripping story that escalates at every turn, The Sentinels: Fortunes of War is the first in a series that follows the Six Sentinels as they continue to alter the course of history.

Jason Garner - CEO - Global Music Live Nation
Jason Garner, Chief Executive Officer of Global Music, oversees Live Nation’s concert promotion and venue activities worldwide. He also oversees the company’s House of Blues division. He has worked for Live Nation and its predecessors since 2003, when he joined the company as the lead booker for its Latin division, Vivelo. He quickly rose to the position of General Manager of the Latin division and eventually moved to the company’s Los Angeles headquarters to oversee the Live Nation’s North American Touring Division and the following year its North American Amphitheatre programming. Mr. Garner most recently served as Chief Executive Officer, North American Music at the company. Mr. Garner began his career in concert promotion booking bands at a local San Jose, California flea market while still in high school, eventually becoming Northern California’s dominant Spanish language concert promoter. As the air turns chilly across the U.S. and touring artists begin to move indoors, Live Nation is set to announce next week that they will ring in the Fall by launching its first-ever 2 for 1 ticket deal on more than 100,000 club concert tickets to over 350 concerts in 29 of its club venues across the country. Available only at LiveNation.com on Wednesday, fans will get two tickets for the price of one to see an eclectic variety of artists including Hanson, Colbie Callait Trey Songz, Mario, The Bravery, The Used and Moby, and many others. The 24 hour 2 for 1 super sale begins this Wednesday beginning 12:01 a.m. local time on October 7, 2009 only at Livenation.com This 2 for 1 concert experience is available only at Live Nation club venues in the U.S

Christopher Andersen "Barack & Michelle: Portrait of An American Marriage"
Christopher Andersen is the critically acclaimed author of twenty-eight books, which have been translated into more than twenty-five languages worldwide. A former contributing editor of Time magazine and senior editor of People magazine, Andersen has also written hundreds of articles for a wide range of publications, including Life magazine, the New York Times, and Vanity Fair. They exploded onto the world scene and within a matter of a few short years captured the ultimate political prize. In so doing, they became a First Couple like no other: He—the biracial son of a free-spirited Kansas-born woman and a mercurial Kenyan father who abandoned him at an early age—was raised in Hawaii and Indonesia, educated at Columbia and Harvard, and launched his political career in America's heartland. She, by contrast, was the product of a solidly middle-American family with roots planted firmly in Chicago's working-class South Side—paving the way for her to achieve her dreams of an Ivy League education and a position at one of the nation's top law firms. By the time they claimed the White House in one of the most hotly contested presidential races in modern history, Barack and Michelle Obama were seen by millions around the world as the new Jack and Jackie Kennedy—brilliant, attractive, elegant, youthful, exciting. Accompanied by their two young daughters, Malia and Sasha, the Obamas would arrive at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue with the promise of a new Camelot all but assured. Given the obvious historic significance of what they have accomplished together, the marriage of Barack and Michelle stands as one of the great personal and political partnerships in American history. Yet, incredibly, the true nature of that relationship has remained a mystery. Until now. In the style of his No. 1 New York Times bestsellers The Day Diana Died and The Day John Died, as well as his bestselling books about the Kennedys, the Clintons, and the Bushes, author Christopher Andersen draws on important sources—some speaking here for the first time—to paint the first complete, compelling portrait of America's first black First Family.

Brad Klinge, President/Founder Everyday Paranormal
Barry Klinge, Vice President/COO Everyday Paranormal
"Ghost Lab" Discovery Channel
With the help of the latest technology, two brothers have uncovered someof the most intriguing results in supernatural research to date —including a possible recording of Civil War soldiers talking. Meet Bradand Barry Klinge, Texas natives who in 2007 founded Everyday Paranormal,an investigation team that has explored more than 70 locations and hasgiven a new twist to paranormal research. The Klinges and their team ofinvestigators are featured in the all-new 13-part series “GHOST LAB”, topremiere Tuesday, October 6, at 10:00 PM Eastern/Pacific on DiscoveryChannel. The Klinge brothers tackle what are thought to be some of America’s most haunted locations with sophisticated equipment housed in a decked-out travelling “ghost lab.” This 24-foot car hauler is capable of providing 200,000 watts of electricity to power audio, video and photo analysis stations; flat-screen televisions; and an interactive touch-screen smartboard. The lab also houses surveillance video cameras capable of shooting 300 feet away in total darkness with a 180-degree peripheral view; temperature, humidity and dew-pointdata-loggers; various digital cameras, including thermal imaging ones; audio recorders; and more than 8,000 feet of video cable. This on-site high-tech lab enables investigators to analyze data on the premises in real time, helping them to more narrowly focus their investigations on suspected “hot spots.” The team also consults with some of the world’s foremost specialists in science measurementsto devise and test theories during their investigations. Is there more “ghost activity” around water? Are spirits attached to specific items or locations? Is there aparallel universe? Some of the locations that the Klinge brothers investigate on “GHOST LAB” include Tombstone, Ariz., home to some of the most violent deaths in history; Shreveport Municipal Auditorium, where Elvis got his start; andGranbury Opera House, where, according to legend, John Wilkes Boothchanged his name to John St. Helen and performed Shakespeare afterassassinating President Lincoln.

Jeff Michaels Contestant "Dating in the Dark"
Are reality shows irresponsible in selecting their contestants? One would get that impression when we were horrified with the murder of Jasmine Fiore - a model, stripper, and Playboy representative, by her husband, Ryan Alexander Jenkins, who was a contestant on “Megan Wants a Millionaire,” on VH1. Jeff Michaels, who appeared on the finale of Dating in the Dark on ABC is scratching his head in disbelief over this tragic turn of events. “I was subjected to a grueling month-long evaluation process prior to being selected,” said Michaels. After he was asked to audition for the show, he was first interviewed for over an hour by a panel including the casting director, producer and representatives from the production company. “I was on camera the entire time and the panelists were watching on laptops to see how I appeared on “‘screen” and if I could manage the pressure of the interview.” Following this, Michaels was required to pass a psychological evaluation by a psychologist, a drug test, and a complete physical examination including a panel of blood tests. Why was the process so rigorous? “To see how well we would handle the pressure cooker atmosphere on the set,” said Michaels. The episode was shot at a remote Los Angeles County mansion and for four days he was sequestered with two other contestants. “We were complete strangers, who were put through their paces from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. We were on camera continuously, which meant we had to be in performance mode at all times. We literally fell into our beds at night. There were even cameras in the bedroom.” The production company had to be careful in its selection process because of the rigorous workout the contestants endured. By the way, Michaels was able to find “love in the dark” and drove off in a chauffeured Bentley into the proverbial sunset with his date.

Thu Oct 01, 2009

On Today's Show: www.crntalk.com

Kurt Busch "Nascar Operation Homefront "
Championship driver and current Chase-eligible racer Kurt Busch. After winning Rookie of the Year in 2000, Busch moved to NASCAR’s top series full time in 2001, and posted his first Cup victory at Bristol in March 2002. He won three more races that season, finished in the top-10 in 20 of the 36 races and was third in the final point standings. Two years later, Busch celebrated a championship by winning NASCAR’s inaugural Chase for the Nextel Cup. Busch made the Chase in 2005, his last year with Roush Racing. During the season he signed with Penske Racing South to drive the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge in 2006. After a disappointing 2006 season, Kurt bounced back in style during the 2007 season to post two wins, six top five finishes and 14 top 10’s. Using a big boost from the attention of new crew chief Pat Tryson, who joined the team in June, he mounted a charge to make it into the Chase for the third time in four years and finished seventh in the final point standings. He is on pace to make the Chase in 2008 He did not make Chase in ’08 but is on pace for ’09. Kurt Busch knows a thing or two about racing cars, evidenced by his current sixth place position in the Sprint Cup standings. A third-generation race car driver, Busch won the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship in 2004, the first season using the Chase for the Cup points format. During this year’s Chase, capturing top-10 finishes will not only help Busch contend for a championship but he’ll also be helping our nation’s veterans thanks to a partnership between his sponsor, Miller Lite, and Operation Homefront. In this radio interview, Busch will talk about his quest for his second Cup championship and what he will do to capture the top spot in the Chase. He’ll also discuss his latest involvement with Operation Homefront and how listeners can support our veterans by simply enjoying Miller Lite.

Andrea Kane DRAWN IN BLOOD
(William Morrow; On Sale: September 8, 2009), New York Times bestselling author Andrea Kane’s highly anticipated follow-up to last year’s “no-holds-barred thriller” (Publishers Weekly), TWISTED. Carefully crafted from her extensive knowledge of the inner workings of the FBI and their renowned Art Crime Team, Kane takes us on a worldwide treasure hunt, where nothing is as it seems: friends become traitors, lovers become strangers . . . and the battle lines are DRAWN IN BLOOD. Former FBI Special Agent Sloane Burbank has seen her share of danger. She's faced down a serial killer and survived life-threatening injuries . . . but she never expected that danger to invade the lives of her family. When her mother is viciously attacked in the posh Manhattan apartment her parents share and it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary robbery. The thieves were too clever, too knowledgeable, and so obviously after something of her father's. But what could a respected art dealer have done to merit such violence? When a mysterious message is left for him, Sloane knows her father's in over his head. Determined to find out the truth, Sloane discovers a deadly secret buried in his past that has made him the target of a power-hungry mobster with a lethal agenda and nothing to lose. Sloane is desperate to save her father, but to do so she must hold on to secrets of her own—especially from FBI Special Agent Derek Parker, the man she has grown to love deeply. She knows she must tell him everything, but how can she betray her father's confidence? Can a couple who's faced so much survive this ultimate test of trust? Will they survive at all? As the decades-old secret claims the lives of her father's oldest friends and the killer closes in on him, Sloane finds herself in foreign territory: alone, facing escalating personal danger, and hunting a moving target in a world where memories are long and loyalties are drawn in blood.

DANNY PUDI ("Abed" on NBC's "Community")
Danny Pudi stars as Abed, a pop culture junkie, in the new NBC comedy series "Community." Pudi, an actor and comedian originally from Chicago, graduated from Marquette University. He was the first Chris Farley Scholarship Award winner, and completed the Second City Chicago's Conservatory program. On the small screen, Pudi’s credits include NBC’s "ER," "The Bill Engvall Show," as well as recurring roles on "Greek" and "Gilmore Girls." He can also be seen in the upcoming films "Road Trip 2: Beerpong" and the independent film "Thunder Geniuses" directed by Michael Clancy. Pudi’s Los Angeles stage credits include "Huck & Holden," NBC's Diversity Showcase, "Token City" and the staged readings "Loyalties" and "Air Guitar High." He is also a founding member of Siblings of Doctors, a trio of Indian-American comics that perform sketch comedy and improv at various comedy festivals around the country. When he’s not working, Pudi is an avid runner and enjoys playing Yahtzee, vacuuming and drinking coffee. He currently resides in Los Angeles.

Dr. Debra B. Luftman Dermatologist
Dr. Debra B. Luftman is a board-certified dermatologist and member of the American Board of Dermatology. Luftman recently co-wrote the book, The Beauty Prescription, which emphasizes her personal philosophy that beauty is more than skin deep. She brings 11 years of broadcast experience, including appearances on “Good Morning America”, “EXTRA TV” and National Public Radio. Dr. Luftman received her undergraduate degree at the University of California San Diego and graduated medical school from Tufts University. She completed residency in internal medicine and dermatology at UCLA and also retains an academic association, teaching skin surgery and general dermatology at UCLA. Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Luftman has always felt that there is an important link between overall health, skin health and emotional well being. Her mission is offering cutting-edge medical care while retaining the art of medicine—always communicating with her patients."We should be concerned and aware of what is happening to our skin because it is the largest living organ of the body," comments Dr. Luftman. "Our overall health is reflected in the condition of our skin." Dr. Luftman began developing her interest in science and aesthetics while an undergraduate at the University of California San Diego, where she majored in biology and minored in art history. She then traveled to Europe to pursue her artistic interests and study under a fellowship at St. Andrew University in Scotland. After returning to this country, she attended and graduated medical school at Tufts University and completed her residency in internal medicine and dermatology at UCLA. She has been board certified in Dermatology since 1996.