Let's Talk Ten

Re-mixed and re-edited version of episode that originally debuted on December 4, 2023:Dan welcomed two very special guests --  his twenty-something children APRIL FISHER and PHOEBE FISHER to compare musical notes on SONGS THAT MAKE ME WANNA DANCE. Though there are some inevitable Boomer/Gen X versus Gen Z/Millenial comparisons, many of their choices just might surprise you.  Let's just say that Dan wasn't the one who picked a Kool and the Gang song.  He went with Bruno Mars, instead. This is an episode jam-packed with "bops" -- as the kids say -- and more than a few laughs.  Consider this your invitation to the dance.Support the show

Re-mixed and re-edited version of episode that originally debuted in September 2024:It's THE NEW ZOO REVUE!  COMING RIGHT AT YOU!After nearly fifty years away from the public eye, Doug and Emily (Emmy Jo) Momary are back, and they’re everywhere – appearing at comic-cons and pop culture conventions, posting on social media, and now…they're Dan's guests on Let’s Talk Ten.Doug and Emmy Jo turned out to be as sweet and genuine as the characters they played on their classic kid's show, which eight-year-old Danny Fisher never missed (though he’d never admit that to his fellow eight-year-olds -- who were no doubt watching it, too).For all New Zoo fans, this episode will bring back fond memories of old pals Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, and Henrietta Hippo, with plenty of songs that will be sure to stick in your brain for the next few days. "It's quite an unusual thing,The animals talk and sing,With Doug and Emmy Jo,Every day's a different show....."Support the show

Can you tell me how to get…how to get to SESAME STREET?   DAVID KAMP can.  He’s the author of the national best-seller “Sunny Days: The Children’s Television Revolution That Changed America”, which chronicles the behind-the-scenes stories of Sesame Street (as well as other classic shows like Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, Zoom, and Schoolhouse Rock) and the seismic impact it had – not just in America, but the world – on the way children learned how to count, sing the letters of the alphabet, and how to deal with their own feelings.  (While entertaining the living heck out of them.) Dan and David talk about their favorite moments from the show – classic songs and skits featuring beloved Muppets like Kermit, Big Bird and Cookie Monster (with their non-Muppet pals Susan, Gordon, Bob, and Maria), odd little film segments like “The King of 8”, "Chicken or the Egg?" and the “Pinball/Number 12” cartoon (sung by pre-fame The Pointer Sisters – who knew?), and so many, many others.This episode is brought to you by the letter E -- for Educational and Extremely Entertaining.Support the show

Re-mixed and re-edited version of episode that originally debuted in January 2026: COME ON DOWN to join Dan and his guest Adam Nedeff -- as they talk about their all-time favorite television game shows.Adam's not just a fan -- game shows have been his lifetime's obsession.  Currently an archivist and researcher for the National Archives of Game Show History -- and a published author of eleven books on the subject – his  encyclopedic command of their histories, strategies, and trivia is truly dazzling.Wheels spin and lights flash throughout a conversation that covers the behind-the-scenes stories, the legendary hosts, the celebrity guests, the laughs, the scandals...and, of course, those fabulous prizes.P.S.: Listeners who sticks around all the way through the end, will discover an amazing post-credits clip that addresses one of the greatest game show urban myths of all time.Support the show

BILLY SMITH – owner and operator of Billy’s Midway Arcade in Hawthorne, NJ – joins Dan to talk about their favorite all-time old-school arcade games: Pinball, Skee-ball, Pong, Donkey Kong, Pac Man, Pole Position, Tetris, House of the Dead, even claw machines.It’s a fun and fast-paced conversation about the histories of these games and the tech wizards who created them; the enormous impact on they had on our culture, popular and otherwise; and why pinball is the most poetic of all the arcade games. Recorded live from Billy’s Midway.Support the show

Stand-up comedian and podcaster ADAM SANK joins Dan for a fun – and sometimes even a little serious – conversation about the stuff that makes him laugh.They talk a lot about television – Adam’s obsessed with the Bravo Network, “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, and sitcoms – as well as comedic influences like Mel Brooks, Joan Rivers, Howard Stern, and MAD Magazine; how Adam dealt with growing up as a queer Jewish kid in suburban New Jersey; and why the phrase “we need more cowbell” can still make both of them bust out laughing.There’s plenty more where that came from -- with a whole bunch of hilarious clips thrown into the mix (including moments from Adam’s stand-up), just for laughs.Support the show

Acclaimed filmmaker and author JOHN SAYLES joins Dan to talk about the movies he’s made (Dan’s worked on three of them: Passion Fish, City of Hope, and Matewan, which was his first-ever job in the film industry) as well as the price one pays to be “independent”, the movies John watched while he was growing up – and his “other” career as a novelist, with his latest, CRUCIBLE, out in bookstores right now. Dan and John had not seen each other in over 25 years, so this is no mere podcast “interview” – it’s a reunion, a warm conversation between old co-workers and friends, with many insights into the process of creating stories on screen and on the page.  Plus, a few laughs here and there. Support the show

Author (“James Bond and the 60’s Spy Craze”) and pop culture expert THOM SHUBILLA returns to Let’s Talk Ten, to talk about his new book “King Kong Versus Godzilla: The Most Colossal Conflict the World Has Ever Known”, Toho Studio’s cult classic giant monster flick from 1962.Not only was this the first occasion for these two gargantuan cinematic legends to meet head-to-head – the outcome of their epic battle perhaps deciding the fate of the entire planet! – but it was the first film for either creature that showcased their city-destroying rampages in full, glorious color.  Which beast would emerge victorious?  That depended on whether you watched the Japanese or American version – at least according to urban legend.  Thom and host Dan Fisher also discuss the original King Kong (1933) and Godzilla (1954) movies; the pluses and minuses of stop-motion animation versus “suit-mation”; and the influence of 1960’s TV wrestling on the Kaiju genre, among many other topics.With plenty of amazing clips to supplement the conversation, it’s monstrously entertaining.Support the show

All right, Let’s Talk Ten listeners – ARE YOU READY TO ROCK????Artist and entrepreneur DARI SILVERMAN is on the show, and we’re talking about some of the greatest performers of all time, LIVE and IN CONCERT: Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles, Janis, Jimi, The Boss….  Dari’s seen them all and hundreds more, and she’s got amazing stories to tell, each one more jaw-dropping than the one before.Meanwhile, since my experiences in concertgoing are relatively few in comparison, I share my thoughts about some of the all-time live albums: Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash, Cheap Trick….  DO YOU FEEL LIKE WE DO???Support the show

ABDUL MALIK ABBOTT’s story is one of inspiration, determination, and excellent timing, as he got into filmmaking just when hip-hop was about to rule the world.  Working his way up from production assistant to sound technician to editor, he eventually became an in-demand director for music videos, especially those featuring Black artists.  Among Abdul’s credits are a number of videos he made with Jay-Z, including the hugely popular “Dead Presidents” and the Platinum-selling video album “Streets Is Watching.”  He also directed the feature film State Property and a number of award-winning short films. In their wide-ranging conversation, Dan and Abdul discuss the impact of Star Wars, Abdul’s encounters with Jay-Z, Spike Lee, Luc Besson, Denzel Washington, and Will Smith – and what it’s like to be one of the few Black people on a film crew.And a lot more.  With an awesome, eclectic soundtrack.Support the show

Professional magician and comedian RACHEL WAX – who’s appeared on “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” and is a regular at Speakeasy Magick in NYC – joins Dan for a spellbinding discussion about her career change from fashion designer to stage performer, why she won’t do kids’ birthday parties, and – more seriously – what it’s like to be a woman working in such a traditionally male-dominated field.  With remarkable candor, she speaks about having to deal with misogynistic remarks and behavior not only from certain members of the audience – but even from some of her fellow magicians.Rachel and Dan also talk about their all-time favorite magicians, many of whom inspired her as a performer – including her own father, Dr. David Wax, who now occasionally works as his daughter’s opening act.Ladies and gentlemen….you just might not believe your very own ears……Support the show

Emmy-winning actor MATTHEW RHYS (The Americans, The Beast in Me) joins Dan to talk about many of his favorite ACTORS and how they’ve influenced the course of his own career.Their discussion spans eras and covers a vast array of artists and styles: leading men (Burton, O’Toole, Brando, Pacino), leading women (Hepburn, Streep),    character actors, scary actors, comic actors, up-and-comers -- as well as the films that contributed to the emergence of those legends, like The Lion in Winter, On the Waterfront, Taxi Driver, and many more.Dan also asks Matthew about his own approach to acting, how he adapted his natural “Welsh” accent into speaking with an “American” one, and how tough it is to play “seductive” characters.  Also: what he learned about acting from John Candy.And as always, lots of amazing clips, for context and fun.Support the show

It’s the return of FIRSTS, with a fresh roster of Let’s Talk Ten All-Stars:Dan Persons, Simone Farber, Moosie Drier, Kathleen Fisher, Danny Peary, Roxanne Kincaid, Laurie Gwen Shapiro, Kerry & Lisa Weeks, Kristen Lopez, Dan Riba, Sarah Schmidt, Andrew Laposha, Lori Cardille, and John Ashton – all here to share some of their first meaningful pop cultural experiences.With fourteen different stories, it’s an epic event that somehow goes by in a flash -- full of lovely memories, plenty of laughs, more than a few life-changing revelations, and even a little bit of childhood fear and pathos.  It’s intimate, unguarded, genuine storytelling at its very best.Support the show

Since our listeners have been very, very good this year, Let’s Talk Ten is celebrating the season with a wide-ranging, enthusiastic salute to classic RANKIN/BASS holiday specials. Rudolph, Frosty, the Little Drummer Boy, the Miser Brothers – they’re all here, along with the amazing RICK GOLDSCHMIDT, the official historian/biographer for Rankin/Bass Productions, serving as our expert guide.Rick fondly remembers the genius of Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass; their extraordinary collaborators Romeo Muller, Johnny Marks, Maury Laws, Jack Davis, Paul Coker Jr.; with show business legends like Burl Ives, Mickey Rooney, Fred Astaire, and Billie Mae Richards (a.k.a the voice of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer).  Meanwhile, Dan chimes in with questions like: Why was the Girl Doll on the Island of Misfit Toys, anyway?  And why did Rankin/Bass never do a Hannukah special?To top it all off, a special seasonal BONUS FEATURE: A musical performance from Kathleen Fisher and Steve Markle that's so delightful, you just might find yourself singing along.  And why not?  It's the holidays.Support the show

Legendary film writer and critic DANNY PEARY’s previous episodes (#40 - #41: Movies I Loved When I Was a Kid) were so enormously popular that host Dan Fisher invited him back to talk about whatever he wanted. Here, then, are fascinating stories of Danny’s student years at Wisconsin and USC -- and his memorable encounters with legendary directors and performers: Liv Ullman, Jean-Luc Godard, Robert Altman, Fritz Lang, actress Erica Gavin, director/editor Mark Robson, John Carradine, Martin Scorsese, George Lucas, Dolly Parton, bluegrass icon Jimmy Martin, and Elliot Gould. Whether you’re a film fanatic or just enjoy being in the presence of a master storyteller, you’ll want to sit in on this warm and revealing conversation.Support the show

KRISTEN LOPEZ returns to the show, for a thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining conversation about representation of the physically and mentally disabled in cinema.  As a professional film critic and as a disabled person herself, she brings a perspective that is not only personal but also steeped in her extensive knowledge of film and its history. Her new book, “Popcorn Disabilities”, examines how Hollywood has dealt with disabled characters (and the actors who portray them) over the last century, when they’ve been seen at all.  But she also points out where films have gotten it right, and how the power of the medium can continue to be used to enlighten, educate, and entertain in the future. In their wide-ranging talk, Kristen and Dan cover everything from silent-era Chaplin and Lon Chaney films; to cult classics like Freaks and Sign of the Ram; to more currently familiar titles like Children of a Lesser God, Forrest Gump, Million Dollar Baby, Scent of a Woman (hoo-ah!), and many more – with insight, sensitivity, and believe it or not, the occasional laugh.Support the show

Award-winning screenwriter LARRY KARASZEWSKI (Ed Wood, The People Vs. O.J.: American Crime Story) and Dan happen to share two mutual passions: movies from the 1970’s, and everything to do with the Oscars.   For this episode, they combine these into a historical overview of, arguably, the greatest decade for American cinema, as chronicled by its Academy Award winners and nominees – with plenty of discussion over which films and artists (in their opinions) should really have won or at least have been nominated. (A format “borrowed” from their friend Danny Peary, from his book Alternate Oscars.)In just ten years, so many stone-cold classics: The Godfather, The Exorcist, Chinatown, Nashville, Jaws, Taxi Driver, Network, Annie Hall, Star Wars, The Deer Hunter, All That Jazz – plus criminally underseen but noteworthy films like Diary of a Mad Housewife, The Heartbreak Kid, and Blue Collar.  Larry and Dan talk about these and many more magnificent films in great detail, with love.For any self-proclaimed film fanatic, this might be essential listening.  Or at least, with an abundance of amazing clips, it’s nearly as fun as going to the movies.Support the show

For our third annual Halloween celebration, actress Lori Cardille joins the party to talk about her starring role in the cult classic “Day of the Dead”, the legacy of George Romero, and most dear to her heart – memories of her father Bill Cardille, a.k.a. “Chilly Billy Cardille”, host of Pittsburgh’s long-running monster-movie show, “Chiller Theater”. There will be shrieks of terror and howls of laughter as Lori and Dan also discuss their all-time favorite horror movies, Lori’s childhood disdain for them, and Dan’s thoughts on those store-bought Halloween costumes that used to come in a box.With plenty of surprises and vintage clips, this one’s so much fun, it’s scary.Support the show

We’ve all been asked this question at least a few times in our lives: “If you were stranded on a desert island and could bring only one thing – what would you bring?” Now -- narrow that selection down to just one movie, one album, or a boxed set of the entire run of a television series.  If that were the case, what would you bring? Entertainment journalist/interviewer WILL HARRIS (The A.V. Club, Vulture) and his college-age daughter ALLY are put into this imaginary conundrum, forced to make tough pop-cultural choices in such categories like So-Bad-It’s-Good Movie, TV Comedy or Variety Series, and the complete works of just one Musical Artist or Band.  Like the castaways on Gilligan’s Island, these two made the best of their situation, so a fun time was had by all.  Listeners can have fun, too -- by playing along with their own desert island pop-culture picks.Support the show

JOHN ASHTON, former guitarist and songwriter for the legendary PSYCHEDELIC FURS (“Love My Way”, “Pretty in Pink”) is on the show, to talk about his life in music, the people he’s met along the way -- and especially the music that influenced him and made everything possible. Dan mostly listens, as John talks about The Beatles, Bowie, ACDC, Lou Reed, touring with the Talking Heads and Echo and the Bunnymen – and how a terrible auto accident would lead him to first encounter the Sex Pistols, which would alter the course of his life.  It’s a surprisingly sweet and occasionally downright revelatory conversation between friends, both of whom happen to adore all genres of rock and roll, and love to talk about it.   It’s a hell of a story – with a killer soundtrack. Support the show

Ron Friedman passed away on September 15, 2025.  He was 93.I was very fortunate to have had him as a guest on this podcast -- Ron wrote for damn near every show I watched growing up -- The Andy Griffith Show, Bewitched, All in the Family, The Partridge Family, Chico and the Man, Fantasy Island....  His output was enormous -- over 700 hours of television, in all genres, sitcoms, action dramas, variety -- and his influence on me and millions of other former television addicts is incalculable.I was even luckier to have then known him, all too briefly, as a friend.  When he learned that I was in the hospital for a lengthy stay, he would call me out of the blue, just to check up on me.  He was 92 years at the time, not in the best of health himself, but his sincere concern for me meant everything.  That he happened to have grown up in West Virginia, in the same northern Ohio Valley area where I would grown up some years later, further cemented our bond.I knew something wasn't right with Ron not only when he stopped receiving my calls, but then stopped returning my texts.  I wish I'd have had one last chat with him.This will have to do.  It's Ron telling at least a part of his own life story, and he was born a master story teller.Rest in well-earned peace, my friend.Support the show

Three-time Emmy-winning animation director Dan Riba (“Batman Beyond”, “Freakazoid!”) joins Dan for a nostalgic, insightful, and just plain flat-out fun conversation about the CARTOONS they both loved when they were each growing up in the 1960’s and ‘70’s -- and would also serve as artistic and creative inspirations throughout Dan Riba’s long and distinguished career. Their animated discussion covers 1960’s manga, superheroes (DC and Marvel), modern stone age families, intrepid boy adventurers, Greek gods – as well as encounters with legends like Jack Kirby and Doug Wildey, their mutual boyhood obsessions with comic books, and the joy of finding prizes in cereal boxes. Plus: some of the greatest theme songs in television history, period.  Yabba-dabba-doo, and flame on!Support the show

Progressive Radio Host and Podcaster ROXANNE KINCAID (“Head-ON with Roxanne Kincaid”) returns to Let’s Talk Ten for a fun and very informed conversation with Dan, about their all-time favorite movie BIOPICS.   From legends of the battlefield to show biz icons to the lords of Silicon Valley, these films span not just centuries, but cinematic genres and styles as well.  Some are multiple Oscar-winners, others ambitious cult classics -- but at their best, biopics help us to understand the human beings beneath all the majesty, pomp, wigs, and accents. And unlike a lot of big Hollywood epics, this episode only runs for an hour.Support the show

Pop culture essayist, critic, and editor KRISTEN LOPEZ join Dan for a witty and lively discussion of their favorite television and streaming series of the past 25 years.Their choices cover a wide and often surprising array of genres and characters, watched on large, laptop, and phone screens. What a “television show” is exactly continues to be redefined, as the long-time popularity of sitcoms and generic cop shows have given way to epic  storytelling, complex characterizations, and movie-quality production values. As always, what might or might not have made Dan and Kristen’s lists might be highly debatable, but it’s all in good fun, as two people who spend way too much time thinking about this stuff cram as much behind-the-scenes trivia, personal recollections, and strongly-held opinions into a one-hour podcast episode.  Plus: Lots of awesome clips!Support the show

Legs McNeil was not only an integral part of the 1970’s downtown New York City “punk” scene – he gave it a name. As one of the founders of Punk magazine, Legs was a fixture at CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, he hung out with Iggy Pop and Lou Reed, and was in the audience for The Ramones, Patti Smith, Talking Heads, Blondie – plus many other bands who never found that level of fame, but were great while they lasted.With Gillian McCain, Legs wrote PLEASE KILL ME: THE UNCENSORED ORAL HISTORY OF PUNK – the definitive first-hand account of a scene and a cultural movement that continues to inspire (and sell records) to this day. He’s also worked as an editor for Spin magazine and was the author or co-author of “The Other Hollywood: The Uncensored Oral History of the Porn Film Industry”, “Dear Nobody: The True Diary of Mary Rose”, and others.He’s now the director and co-producer of “Pusherman: Frank Lucas and the True Story of American Gangster”, a documentary which corrects much of the fictionalized narrative of the Denzel Washington-starring 2007 film.In his conversation with Dan, Legs shared stories about his friendships with Andy Warhol, Debbie Harry, and William S. Burroughs; the Sex Pistols’ final show; a private Rolling Stones concert held inside a volcano – plus, how he got that unusual first name. (This episode contains frank language and mature subject matter which might not be appropriate for all listeners.  Discretion is advised.)Support the show

They say that truth is stranger than fiction.  Great documentaries have proven that they can be even more compelling and entertaining than anything your average Hollywood screenwriter could dream up. Acclaimed documentary filmmaker and writer/journalist LAURIE GWEN SHAPIRO – whose already-bestselling book “THE AVIATOR AND THE SHOWMAN” has been released to critical raves – joins Dan for an informed, freewheeling conversation about their favorite docs.  From coal mines and rock concerts…to a decaying mansion, the Supreme Court, and way beyond…these are amazing stories told by fascinating people -- and they all really happened.Support the show

Let’s Talk Ten turns TWO, and Dan celebrates the occasion by collecting his favorite moments of the show from the past year – featuring great comments, conversations, and even a few songs with our amazing guests:Jordan Franklin, John DeNicola, Stacy Widelitz, Ted Bergman, Doug & Emily Momary, Burt Kearns, Bob Bergen, Terry Beatty, Kevin Ladson, Catherin Moore, Tripp Whetsell, Heather Thomas, Gerry Williams, Danny Peary, Kathleen Fisher, Matt Singer, Simone Farber, Mosie Drier, Ed Kalegi, Kerry & Lisa Weeks, Andrew Unterberger, Daniel Persons, Sara Schmidt, Andrew Laposha, Warren Zanes, Eliana Singer, and Simone Elias.  No need to BYOB nor RSVP: Just click -- and welcome to the party, pal. Support the show

Podcasters ELIANA SINGER and SIMONE ELIAS join Dan for a fun and enlightening conversation about their favorite movies of the past 25 years.  Eliana and Simone’s show, “Teenage Golden Age”, chronicles their love of classic cinema of the 1930’s -- 1960’s – but for this episode of “Let’s Talk Ten” the choices are limited strictly to films of the 21st century – though there have been so many genuinely great ones, it was still not easy to narrow down their lists.   Besides the movies of this millennium, they also discuss: * How an obsession with “old movies” can get in the way of keeping up with what’s currently playing in theaters or on streaming.* Has the overabundance of entertainment and media choices become a blessing -- or a curse -- for Gen Z audiences?* Eliana admits that she is not particularly fond of two of Dan’s all-time favorite movies.  * Simone discusses the book she published at the age of 15.* Great clips, as always.  And so much more.Support the show

Musician (the Del Fuegos), NYU professor, and writer WARREN ZANES and Dan have a deep-dive conversation about rock-and-roll legends BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and TOM PETTY.Warren is the author of the best-selling and critically hailed Petty: The Biography, as well as Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska (which has been adapted into an upcoming motion picture, starring Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen) which, obviously, qualifies him as more than just a fan.  To his credit, Dan holds up his end of the discussion as well.This one is not a comparison of Top Ten lists – it’s an appreciation of two artists – not just as cultural icons, but as driven, flawed, and extraordinary human beings.Killer soundtrack, too.Support the show

Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!  You’re as welcome as can be whenANDREW LAPOSHA returns to the show to hang out with Dan, as they discuss their all-time favorite characters from the House of Mouse.From the pioneer days of Steamboat Willie to the Pixar era and beyond, these boys-who-never-quite-grew-up compare their lists of talking animals, villains, fairies, princesses, dwarves, and robots.  They have lots of fun, for sure, but they also reveal how these characters -- and their classic films -- would impact each of them, for the rest of their lives. And, as always, there'll lots of fascinating trivia (including a few "Disney goofs” from Dan that Andrew has to correct), plus many hilarious and heart-warming clips that just might make you feel like a kid again.Support the show

To celebrate the show's FIFTIETH epsiode, Dan wanted to feature his all-time favorite music group -- so, he invited author, blogger, and Fab Four fan extraordinaire SARA SCHMIDT onto the show, to talk about favorite BEATLES SONGS.  With so many classics to choose from, listing just ten apiece sometimes felt like it might be…all too much.  But Dan and Sara did manage to include not only plenty of the big hits, but some of the deeper album cuts, and even a few of the more obscure, left-field stuff…because.  AND OF COURSE:  The personal impact that John, Paul, George, and Ringo had on their lives; fun Beatles trivia and interesting lesser-known history; tangents and jokes; and essential clips that sound as fresh and astounding today as they did…yesterday. Support the show

Film journalist and critic DANIEL PERSONS beams onto Let’s Talk Ten, joining host Dan Fisher for a fun and thoughtful conversation about their all-time favorite SCIENCE FICTION MOVIES. From rocket ships and robots to time travel and existential quandaries – to infinity and beyond – Dan and Daniel discuss some of the greatest films of all time (regardless of genre) as well as some more far-out titles that are definitely worth exploring. Live long, prosper, and check out this episode of Let's Talk Ten.Support the show

Billboard editor and podcast host ANDREW UNTERBERGER talks with Dan about their favorite MUSICAL ARTISTS of the past 25 years.  It’s the first of what will be three special “Let’s Talk Ten” episodes devoted exclusively to the music, movies, and TV/streaming shows of this millennium. Even though they come from different generations, both Andrew and Dan are passionate about music in every form – pop, rock, country, hip-hop, etc. – from every decade.  And they love to talk about it.Taylor, Kendrick, and Beyonce will be on their lists, for sure, with at least a few surprises.  Plus:   the occasional tangent and -- obviously -- tons of fantastic music.Support the show

Veteran film/TV workers – and long-time married couple – KERRY & LISA WEEKS join Dan to talk about their favorite “COMFORT FOOD” MOVIES: ones that -- no matter how many times they’ve seen them -- if they come on the television or are suggested by a streamer, they’ll stop whatever they’re doing to watch. A warm, thoughtful, and very funny conversation about movies, between three friends, just might be the comfort we could all use right now.Support the show

Nationally syndicated radio personality ED KALEGI (“America Weekend with Ed Kalegi) joins the show to share moments from ten of the most MEMORABLE CONVERSATIONS he’s had with celebrities and notable public figures including Carol Burnett, Richard Lewis, and Dick Cavett.  Dan loves a good story and little-known tidbits about famous people, and Ed could literally tell them for days.  It was great to say hello to Ed Kalegi.Support the show

There are few people qualified to discuss some of the all-time great child actors…than Moosie Drier. In the 1970s, little Moosie seemed to be on every channel of the television, all at one time – with regular appearances on Laugh-In and The Bob Newhart Show, guest spots on everything from Lassie to CHiPS, and about a gazillion commercials.  This kid was on movie screens too,  in Up the Sandbox with Barbra Streisand, and as John Denver’s son in Oh God! From the Little Rascals to the kids of Hogwarts, Dan and Moosie have a terrific time, sharing stories and occasionally geeking out on each other’s chooses of their favorite child performers of the big and small screen – with, of course, plenty of classic clips (including a few of Moosie!).Support the show

Los Angeles-based Assistant Director SIMONE FARBER (“Boyz N Da Hood”, “Crash”) joins Dan (a New York-area Prop Master) as they choose and discuss ten of their all-time favorite movies to represent their respective area codes. If theirs is a rivalry at all, it’s a very friendly one, as Simone is, like Dan, a certified movie fanatic who loves sharing behind-the-scenes stories.  As they examine masterpieces directed by Scorsese, Tarantino, Lumet, and Wilder, plus popcorn munchers, indies, and cult flicks – Dan and Simone’s conversation travels from Compton to Coney Island and back again, all in just an hour. Featuring lots of laughs, amazing movie trivia, and the usual assortment of classic clips. Support the show

“Once upon a time, if you wanted to know if a movie was worth seeing, you didn’t check out Rotten Tomatoes or IMDB.  You asked whether Siskel & Ebert had given it Two Thumbs Up.”MATT SINGER, the editor and critic at ScreenCrush and author of the bestselling “OPPOSABLE THUMBS: HOW SISKEL & EBERT CHANGED MOVIES FOREVER” joins Dan to discuss the lives of, arguably, the two most influential film critics of all time, as well as their on- and off-the-screen clashes and the influence they had on popular culture -- and on Matt and Dan personally. With amazing clips from their shows and from many behind-the-scenes moments, this episode is a cinematic listening experience that just might be worthy of two thumbs up. Support the show

Singer and songwriter KATHLEEN FISHER hangs out on her big brother’s show to talk about their all-time favorite VOCALISTS in popular music.To add a twist to the discussion, Kathleen’s list will include only male singers, while Dan’s list will include only women.Besides some surprising choices and a lot of great music, this episode is filled with lots of fun, laughter, and banter that only close siblings can have.  Support the show

On the previous episode, Dan and his guest, film critic DANNY PEARY, had such a terrific time discussing favorite movies from their respective youths, that they managed to get through only half of their lists before their time ran out.So -- they’re back for more!  Ten more classics films, from the 1940’s through the 1970’s, each holding special significance within its young viewer's little heart.   It is said that most sequels do not live up to the original.  Like Aliens or Godfather II, it could be argued that this episode is every bit as entertaining as the first.Support the show

One of Dan’s all-time favorite film critics, DANNY PEARY (“Cult Movies”) joins him to talk about a subject dear to both of their hearts: the movies they first watched – and loved – while in their respective youths.The conversation spans eras, nations, and genres – from classic westerns to goofball comedies -- with fond recollections of Saturday afternoons spent at the local movie houses and late Saturday nights struggling to stay awake for the creature double-feature on TV’s Chiller Theater.Plentifully stocked with memorable music and amazing clips, this one is fun for  film fanatics of all ages.Support the show

HO! HO! HO!Pour yourself some eggnog, pull on your favorite ugly sweater – it’s the time of year for our SECOND ANNUAL HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR!In the spirit of those classic old variety specials once hosted by Bing Crosby or Andy Williams, this episode offers something for everyone -- as Dan welcomes his special guests: * Actress HEATHER THOMAS drops by to talk about her favorite Christmas stuff – including the Very Special Christmas Episode of her classic television show, “The Fall Guy”.* Rabbi DAVID KOMEROFSKY shares some moving thoughts -- and more than a few laughs -- regarding the “other” holiday of the season, Hannukah.* HELENE, APRIL and PHOEBE FISHER join their beloved husband and father to talk about the Fisher family’s quirky annual traditions -- plus the holiday movies, music, and TV specials they love.* “Hotter Than July” front man GERRY WILLIAMS closes out the show with a very special performance of one of Dan’s favorite Christmas songs.  Everybody say “Yeah!”PLUS: a Santa's bag stuffed full of classic songs and clips.This gift to you is non-returnable, but we have the feeling you’ll just love it.Support the show

Norman Lear died just a year ago, at age 101, but his legacy of shows – All in the Family, Maude, Sanford and Son, Good Times, Mary Hartman Marty Hartman, One Day at a Time, The Jeffersons – will endure for as long as reruns exist, and viewers wish to laugh, while thinking at the same time. Entertainment journalist, adjunct professor of media studies, and bestselling author TRIPP WHETSELL visits the show to talk with Dan about his just-released “NORMAN LEAR: HIS LIFE AND TIMES”, as well as the unforgettable television that Lear co-created and produced. Lots and lots of behind-the-scenes stories, fond recollections of favorite scenes, and -- as always -- plenty of amazing clips.  In this episode, the good times just cannot be stifled.Support the show

Thanksgiving is almost here -- which, for many, is an occasion to spend some quality time with family from all over: the feisty grandparents, the precocious kids, the weird cousins, the crazy uncle.Dan and his guest, visual artist and podcaster (“Off the Easel”) CATHERINE MOORE, decided to spend some time with the Bluths, the Munsters, the Evanses, plus many more of their favorite TV FAMILIES.You are most cordially invited to join them. No need to bring dessert or a bottle of wine.  By the end of the episode, you'll feel completely stuffed -- but in a good way.Support the show

Property Master, film fanatic, and album collector KEVIN LADSON returns to the show -- hanging out with Dan to talk about their favorite SOUNDTRACKS.From massive epics to indie gems...goofy comedies to international cinema... scored by symphony orchestras, synthesizers, electric guitars, and every sound in between -- these two friends look back on the stone-cold classics they've watched on the big screen and have listened to on their turntables and Spotify.  There may be a few surprises, of course, plus lots of clips spotlighting legendary film music.   It’s a celebration of sound and vision -- kind of like watching a great movie with your eyes closed.  (Not recommended while driving.)Support the show

For a special Halloween treat, llustrator/cartoonist ("The Batman Strikes", "Rex Morgan, M.D.") TERRY BEATTY returns for a super-sized episode -- talking  MONSTERS with Dan.These two grown-up "monster kids" enthusiastically discuss the classic Universal creatures portrayed by Karloff, Lugosi, and Chaney Jr., the stop-motion wizardry of Ray Harryhausen, the vivid blood and frank sexuality of the Hammer horror flicks -- plus, some of their favorite contemporary creatures as well.This episode is “Fun Sized” in the best way – it’s bigger and full of all the best stuff -- amazing trivia, childhood recollections, and oodles of shockingly entertaining clips.   Plus, as a bonus treat for your goodie bag: the return of Let’s Talk Ten’s SPOOKY THEME SONG!Support the show

That WASN'T all, folks!With too much fans and too many great stories to contain within a single episode, Dan and his guest BOB BERGEN are back to talk about who's left on their Top Ten lists of their all-time favorite VOICE ARTISTS.Bob's not only been the vocal talent behind Tweety Bird and Porky Pig, he's been friends with many of the legends of the business.  Add to the conversation Dan's passion for the cartoons he used to watch as a little boy, plus a few bits of trivia up his own sleeve, and you won't want to stop this crazy thing.Support the show

Dan and professional voice actor BOB BERGEN talk about their favorite VOICE-OVER ARTISTS: from legends like Mel Blanc, Casey Kasem, and June Foray – to some of the current crop of vocal talent, with more than a few surprise choices.Having been the voice of Porky Pig, Tweety Bird, and Marvin the Martian for over thirty years – not to mention his appearances in Gremlins, Spirited Away, Fraggle Rock, as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars video games and animation (plus tons of commercials and promos) – Bob's an expert in cartoon history and the voices behind your favorite characters.  He also happens to be a truly sweet, funny guy, with stories for days.   Yes, he does a few of his famous characters on the show.  And yes, they’re amazing.Support the show

Author BURT KEARNS (“MARLON BRANDO: HOLLYWOOD REBEL”) makes his second appearance on the show, to talk about his favorite BRANDO MOVIES – from the very beginning of the "method" actor's legendary career, all the way to the sometimes strange and sad end.   Dan and Burt discuss Brando’s influence on the craft of acting, his political activism, his complicated personal life – and most of all, his movies: the classics, of course (“The Wild One”), but also some of his greatest performances in films that too many have either never seen or even heard of (“Burn!”).   Marlon Brando was an odd man; a gifted, stubborn, compassionate, fascinating human being who was too often antagonistic toward his own brilliance.  His life, on-screen and off, made for a hell of a story.  On the page and on this podcast, Burt Kearns tells it beautifully.            Support the show

It's THE NEW ZOO REVUE!  COMING RIGHT AT YOU!After nearly fifty years away from the public eye, Doug and Emily (Emmy Jo) Momary are back, and they’re everywhere – appearing at comic-cons and pop culture conventions, posting on social media, and now – joining Dan Fisher on  “LET’S TALK TEN”.The three of them talked about how these two crazy theater kids -- fresh out of college and with no television experience whatsoever -- created and starred in what would become a kids’ TV classic.  Doug and Emily also remember the human beings who provided the bodies and voices for Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, and Henrietta Hippo.   And what the heck they've been up to for the past fifty years or so.  (SPOILER: They recently celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary.) "It's quite an unusual thing,The animals talk and sing,With Doug and Emmy Jo,Every day's a different show....."Support the show