Nick Egan Times

Gus Frerotte joins the Nick Egan Times, former NFL quarterback and veteran of a remarkable 15-year professional football career.Gus takes us through his journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to the NFL, including his time at the University of Tulsa, being selected in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, and playing for Washington, Denver, Detroit, Cincinnati, Miami, Minnesota and the St. Louis Rams.He reflects on the challenges he faced along the way, including playing through injury as a young athlete and overcoming a serious neck injury that threatened his football future.Gus also shares the incredible story behind one of the most memorable plays of his career — his 99-yard touchdown pass for the Minnesota Vikings against the Chicago Bears, a play that began deep inside his own end zone.He discusses life in the NFL, how the game has evolved, player safety, the importance of listening to those around you, and lessons he learned about money, discipline and life after spending 15 seasons at the highest level of professional football.Gus also discusses the international growth of American football, including the potential for the NFL to continue expanding globally and specifically the opportunities he sees in countries such as Australia. He talks about his work developing youth coaching through his First and Ten program, the importance of qualified coaches, and the potential to discover talented athletes from around the world.He also talks about life after the NFL and his work with Huddle Up with Gus, continuing to share stories, experiences and lessons from the world of professional football.A fascinating conversation covering the NFL, professional sport, perseverance, leadership, player safety, international football, NFL Australia, career longevity, life after professional sport and what it takes to compete at the highest level.The Nick Egan Times is a global interview platform featuring internationally recognised voices across music, film, sport, entertainment, fashion, business and culture. Established in 2021, the show has built an ever-growing archive of timeless interviews available to audiences around the world across major podcast and streaming platforms.

Justin Casse joins the Nick Egan Times, a highly respected thoroughbred bloodstock agent and founder of Casse Sales.Justin has built an international career helping owners and investors identify, acquire and develop elite thoroughbred racehorses, with experience spanning the United States and major racing and bloodstock markets around the world.Coming from a renowned family with generations of experience in the thoroughbred industry, Justin grew up around some of the world’s most important racing destinations, including Lexington, Louisville, Saratoga Springs and Ocala, while travelling internationally through his family’s involvement in the sport.Justin shares his journey into the bloodstock business, the lessons his father taught him about business, money, risk and responsibility, and what it takes to operate in an industry where enormous investments can depend on judgement, experience and instinct.One of the defining achievements of Justin’s career was identifying War Of Will at a sale in Deauville, France, where he purchased the horse for €250,000 on behalf of client Gary Barber. War Of Will went on to win the 2019 Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the U.S. Triple Crown. Justin discusses the story behind finding the horse, what he saw in him, and why that victory remains one of the defining moments of his career.Justin also discusses working with high-profile and ultra-high-net-worth owners, travelling approximately 24 weeks a year, buying and selling horses across international markets, managing expectations, the unpredictable nature of racing, and why failure can be one of the greatest teachers in the business.He explains why he believes intuition and experience play such an important role in evaluating horses, revealing that his gut instinct can account for approximately 75% of his decision-making - While emphasizing that what people call instinct is often years of accumulated experience, mistakes and knowledge processed in an instant.Justin also opens up about confidence, trusting yourself, learning from failure, the importance of having your own skin in the game, and the advice he would give anyone looking to build a career in the racing industry.A fascinating conversation exploring thoroughbred racing, bloodstock, business, investment, risk, elite ownership, international travel, intuition, perseverance and what it takes to recognize greatness before everyone else.

Lumidee joins the Nick Egan Times for an honest and revealing conversation about her incredible journey from Spanish Harlem to international music stardom.Best known for her worldwide smash “Never Leave You (Uh Oooh Uh Oooh),” Lumidee takes us behind the story of how the record came together, how it exploded organically through New York clubs and radio, and how that unexpected success ultimately led to a record deal with Universal.Lumidee opens up about growing up in Spanish Harlem, discovering her passion for songwriting, entering the music industry at a young age, and learning some of the hardest lessons of her career.She also reflects on “Dance,” her connection to the FIFA World Cup in Germany, “She’s Like the Wind” with Tony Sunshine, and working with major artists including Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dogg, Fabolous, Shaggy, Pitbull, Styles P and Wyclef Jean.In this wide-ranging interview, Lumidee discusses:• The incredible story behind “Never Leave You (Uh Oooh Uh Oooh)”• How a remix became an international phenomenon• Growing up in Spanish Harlem• Her Puerto Rican heritage and staying true to herself• Working with some of hip-hop and music’s biggest names• Her experience with “Dance” and the FIFA World Cup• The story behind “She’s Like the Wind”• Her musical influences, including Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott, Madonna, Bon Jovi and Pat Benatar• Performing around the world and building confidence on stage• Her unforgettable experience performing in Lebanon• Her love of Dubai and international travel• Overcoming adversity and turning difficult experiences into creativity• Authenticity, longevity and staying true to yourself• The changing music industry and the impact of social media• Her evolution as an artist, songwriter and creator• Her vision for the future beyond musicThis is Lumidee beyond the hit record — her story, her struggles, her evolution and the experiences that shaped her remarkable career.Subscribe to Nick Egan Times | Universal Media Network for interviews with legendary artists, celebrities, athletes, entertainment figures and influential voices from around the world.

Rich Magallanes joins the Nick Egan Times for an extraordinary conversation about Hollywood, Nickelodeon, animation, creativity, perseverance and the future of children’s entertainment.Named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 50 Players in Kids Entertainment, Rich Magallanes has spent more than 25 years helping create, develop and produce some of the most beloved animated television shows and characters of a generation.Rich served as Senior Vice President of Animation and Current Series at Nickelodeon, overseeing major animated productions, and has also worked with major entertainment companies including Mattel, Saban Brands and Funrise. Along the way, Rich has been involved with iconic franchises including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, The Fairly OddParents, Danny Phantom, Invader ZIM and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.In this revealing interview, Rich takes us behind the scenes of Nickelodeon and explains what it was really like working alongside SpongeBob SquarePants creator Stephen Hillenburg, witnessing SpongeBob emerge from development and learning the importance of protecting the integrity of a character and a creative vision.Rich also opens up about the enormous challenge of rebooting Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, a global franchise with millions of passionate fans. What began as a project he wasn’t sure he wanted to take on ultimately became one of the most beloved projects of his career, leading to a close friendship with TMNT creator Kevin Eastman and experiences travelling the world promoting the franchise.He then reveals what it was like returning to Nickelodeon to help reinvent another iconic global franchise, Dora the Explorer. As executive producer and showrunner of the new Dora series, Rich discovered that behind the apparent simplicity of Dora was an incredibly complex production involving preschool education, language, music, rhythm, pacing and storytelling.But Rich’s Hollywood success is only part of the story.The youngest of five brothers, Rich grew up through family upheaval, welfare, government assistance and constant moves before putting himself through college and finding his way into journalism, production and ultimately animation. His story is one of determination, taking risks and repeatedly creating opportunities when there didn’t appear to be a clear path forward.Rich shares the incredible story of how he went from working in a radio station mailroom to getting himself into the newsroom — by literally placing his journalism degree in the general manager’s mail. That single act of taking a chance helped change the direction of his career.We also dive deep into the future of animation and the impact of artificial intelligence. Rich discusses how AI is already changing animation, writing, artwork, music and voice acting, why creators are understandably nervous about the technology, and why he believes AI should ultimately be viewed as a tool rather than a replacement for human creativity.Rich talks about his passion for the creative process, including writing, character design, voice acting, music, editing and even the sound effects that bring animated worlds to life. He explains just how much time, money, artistry and human effort goes into producing even a small amount of animation — something audiences rarely see behind the finished product.Looking ahead, Rich reveals his vision for Animated You, a new initiative designed to bring creators together, share experiences and encourage the next generation of animation talent. He explains why, despite all the uncertainty surrounding AI and the entertainment industry, creators still have ideas, stories and visions they want to bring to life.This is a conversation about Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, animation, Hollywood, AI, creativity, leadership, taking risks, overcoming adversity and what it really takes to build a career in entertainment.Rich Magallanes on the Nick Egan Times.

Art Bell joins the Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about his extraordinary career in television, entrepreneurship and comedy, including the incredible story behind creating The Comedy Channel, which ultimately evolved into Comedy Central.In this fascinating interview, Art shares the behind-the-scenes journey of taking an idea from concept to one of the world’s most influential comedy television brands. He discusses working at HBO during one of the most transformative periods in television history, pitching the original comedy network, overcoming early criticism, building a 24-hour comedy channel from the ground up, and the perseverance it took to turn an ambitious vision into a lasting success.Art also reflects on working alongside legendary entertainment executives, the early careers of Jon Stewart and Al Franken, the arrival of Mystery Science Theater 3000, the impact of South Park on Comedy Central’s success, and why comedians and creators finally had a television home dedicated entirely to comedy.Beyond television, Art opens up about leadership, resilience, innovation, entrepreneurship, being unexpectedly fired after helping build a successful network, the lessons he learned throughout his remarkable career, and the inspiration behind his bestselling memoir Constant Comedy: How I Started Comedy Central and Lost My Sense of Humor and his debut thriller What She’s Hiding.This episode is filled with inspiring stories, career advice, entertainment history and invaluable insights for entrepreneurs, television professionals, media enthusiasts, comedy fans, business leaders, creators and anyone determined to turn a bold idea into reality.

Brett Hellings, frontman of rock supergroup Hellings, joins the Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about the next chapter of his career, the success of his latest single “Chance on Love,” and the exciting future of the band. Produced by Richard Fortus (Guns N’ Roses) and featuring legendary musicians Darryl Jones (The Rolling Stones), Charley Drayton (Bob Dylan), and Carey Frank (Bruce Springsteen), “Chance on Love” marks another major milestone in Brett’s musical journey and the evolution of Hellings.Brett shares the inspiration behind the heartfelt new single, how the song came together in the studio, collaborating with world-class musicians whose careers span some of the biggest names in rock history, and what it was like recording alongside artists connected to Guns N’ Roses, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen. He also discusses the creative process behind the upcoming six-song EP, writing new material, filming the music video in New York City, and why this new era of Hellings is his most authentic yet.The conversation explores Brett’s remarkable career progression, from performing at iconic venues including the Whisky a Go Go, The Viper Room, and The Roxy, to achieving a lifelong dream of headlining the legendary Troubadour in Los Angeles. He also talks about his ambitions to tour internationally, the challenges independent artists face when building a global audience, and why the United Kingdom and Ireland are high on his list of destinations.Beyond the music, Brett opens up about fatherhood, maintaining balance between family life and a career in rock, staying healthy on and off the road, developing patience, and how becoming a parent has influenced both his songwriting and perspective on life. He reflects on the lessons he’s learned throughout more than two decades in the music industry, why authenticity has become the cornerstone of his career, and what legacy he hopes to leave behind.Brett also shares his thoughts on the changing landscape of rock music, the rise of artificial intelligence in the creative industries, why protecting human creativity is more important than ever, and how timeless songwriting continues to define great artists. It’s an inspiring discussion about perseverance, passion, creativity, and staying true to yourself in an ever-changing music industry.

Cheri Dennis joins Nick Egan Times to discuss her latest single, Garden of Eden, the inspiration behind the music, and her remarkable journey as one of R&B’s most distinctive singers and songwriters.Best known for her career with Bad Boy Records and acclaimed songs including I Love You, Portrait of Love, and Ooh La La, Cheri shares how she was discovered and signed by P. Diddy after singing at Kim Porter’s birthday party. She reflects on her years at Bad Boy Records, working alongside some of the biggest names in R&B and hip-hop, the story behind her breakthrough records, and the lessons she has learned throughout decades in the music industry.In this conversation, Cheri discusses the meaning behind Garden of Eden, the story behind I Love You, her experiences at Bad Boy Records, songwriting, creativity, family, motherhood, personal growth, perseverance, the realities of the music business, and the importance of remaining authentic while continuing to evolve as both an artist and a person.This episode explores R&B, Bad Boy Records, P. Diddy, Sean Combs, Kim Porter, Garden of Eden, I Love You, songwriting, creativity, the music industry, recording artists, artistic growth, family, resilience, legacy, and the next chapter in Cheri Dennis’ inspiring career.

David Zucker joins Nick Egan Times to discuss his extraordinary career as one of Hollywood’s most influential comedy filmmakers, the creative journey behind some of the most iconic spoof films ever made, and the timeless principles of great comedy.Best known as the co-creator, writer, director and producer of classics including Airplane!, The Naked Gun trilogy, BASEketball, and Scary Movie 3 , 4 & 5 David has spent decades shaping modern comedy while inspiring generations of filmmakers and writers with his distinctive style of storytelling.In this conversation, David reflects on his remarkable journey from operating a small sketch comedy theatre in Wisconsin to becoming one of the most successful comedy directors in Hollywood. He shares insights into the creative process behind his legendary films, the evolution of comedy over the decades, working with unforgettable performers, and why originality remains the key to creating timeless entertainment.David also discusses his acclaimed books, Surely You Can’t Be Serious: The True Story of Airplane! and Before the Invention of Smiling, along with his exciting new educational platform, MasterCrash, where he teaches aspiring filmmakers the art of spoof comedy through the techniques that helped redefine an entire genre.This episode explores filmmaking, comedy, Hollywood, creativity, storytelling, directing, screenwriting, leadership, and the enduring legacy of one of cinema’s most celebrated comedy pioneers.

Dollbaby joins Nick Egan Times to discuss her music, creative journey, cinematic storytelling style, and the growing impact of her unique “Cinema Pop” sound.Based in Los Angeles, Dollbaby has emerged as a compelling new voice in modern music, blending soulful vocals, emotional honesty, and immersive storytelling into songs that resonate deeply with audiences. Drawing inspiration from film, life experiences, and artistic expression, she has developed a distinctive sound that bridges the worlds of music and cinema.In this conversation, Dollbaby discusses her acclaimed releases including See You Later, Alone, and Leather Thrones, as well as the creative process behind crafting music that is both personal and universally relatable. She also reflects on her feature in Amazon Prime’s Saving Sakic, where her song See You Later played a central role in the documentary’s emotional narrative.With growing recognition, hundreds of thousands of views across her music releases, and praise from legendary songwriter and producer Richard Rudolph, Dollbaby continues to establish herself as an artist with a powerful creative vision and a voice all her own.This episode explores music, songwriting, creativity, storytelling, artistic identity, and the journey of building an authentic career in today’s entertainment industry. A fascinating conversation for music lovers, creators, filmmakers, and anyone inspired by the power of storytelling through art.

Dionne Warwick joins Nick Egan Times for a conversation with one of the most influential and celebrated artists in music history.A six-time Grammy Award winner, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Hollywood Walk of Fame honoree, and one of the most-charted recording artists of all time, Dionne’s extraordinary career has spanned more than six decades and helped define the soundtrack of generations. With timeless classics including Walk On By, I Say a Little Prayer, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, Alfie, Don’t Make Me Over, Anyone Who Had a Heart, Heartbreaker, Then Came You, That’s What Friends Are For, I’ll Never Fall in Love Again, Deja Vu, Message to Michael, and her participation in the historic We Are the World recording alongside some of the greatest artists in music history, her voice and artistry have left an indelible mark on popular culture around the world.In this interview, Dionne discusses DWUETS, her forthcoming and final studio album, featuring collaborations with acclaimed artists including Cynthia Erivo and John Legend. She reflects on the evolution of music, the lessons learned from a lifetime at the pinnacle of the industry, her final world tour, and the enduring power of great songwriting and timeless performances.She also shares her thoughts on the upcoming biopic based on her remarkable life and career, with Teyana Taylor set to portray her on screen, and discusses what it means to see her story introduced to a new generation of music fans.A fascinating conversation with a true music icon whose influence continues to shape artists, songwriters, and audiences around the world.

Billy Ray joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about storytelling, screenwriting, Hollywood, and his highly anticipated debut novel, Burn the Water.An Academy Award-nominated screenwriter, Billy Ray is one of Hollywood’s most accomplished storytellers, known for writing and directing some of the most influential films of the past two decades. His acclaimed credits include Captain Phillips, The Hunger Games, Shattered Glass, Breach, and the iconic AMC “We Make Movies Better” campaign featuring Nicole Kidman. Throughout his career, Billy has built a reputation for crafting intelligent, emotionally powerful stories that resonate with audiences around the world.In this episode, Billy discusses his transition from screenwriting to novel writing and the inspiration behind Burn the Water, a bold and emotionally charged reimagining of Romeo and Juliet set in a climate-ravaged future London. Written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, the novel represents a new creative chapter in his career and an opportunity to build an entirely original world beyond the screen.Billy also reflects on the art of storytelling, writing for film versus literature, the creative process behind some of his most celebrated projects, and the challenges and rewards of creating stories that leave a lasting cultural impact.A fascinating conversation with one of Hollywood’s most respected writers as he explores new creative territory while sharing insights from a remarkable career in film and storytelling.

Alexa Ray Joel joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about music, songwriting, family legacy, and her latest single, “Heavy Eyes.”An acclaimed singer, songwriter, and pianist, Alexa Ray Joel has built a career on her own artistic vision while drawing inspiration from some of music’s greatest influences. The daughter of legendary musician Billy Joel and iconic supermodel Christie Brinkley, Alexa has forged a unique path in the music industry through heartfelt songwriting, powerful vocals, and captivating live performances.In this episode, Alexa discusses the inspiration behind “Heavy Eyes,” a soulful track influenced by classic female vocalists including Dionne Warwick and Irma Thomas. She also shares insights into her creative process, the stories behind her music, her love of piano-driven songwriting, and the journey leading to her EP Tales From A Winding Tower.The conversation explores growing up around music, finding an authentic artistic voice, navigating expectations, songwriting, performance, creativity, and the evolution of her career as an independent artist.A fascinating discussion with a talented musician whose blend of classic influences and contemporary songwriting continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Doc Ish joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable career in hip hop, music production, songwriting, youth mentorship, and working alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry.A Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum producer, Doc Ish is widely recognized for his work on Eminem’s global hit We Made You, which reached the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 and became a worldwide success. Over the course of a career spanning more than two decades, he has collaborated with influential artists including Eminem, Wu-Tang Clan, Joe Budden, KRS-One, Billy Danze, and many others, helping shape the sound of modern hip hop.In this episode, Doc Ish discusses his journey through the music industry, the creative process behind producing hit records, his experiences working with Eminem and other legendary artists, and the lessons he has learned from a lifetime in music. He also shares insights into artist development, songwriting, production, entrepreneurship, and the evolution of hip hop culture.Beyond music, Doc Ish is the founder of InYaHead Academy, an innovative organization that uses music therapy, digital media, and mentorship to empower at-risk youth. He is also co-host of the Doc N Danze Show alongside Billy Danze of M.O.P. and was inducted into the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History in recognition of his contributions to music and community impact.A fascinating conversation with one of hip hop’s most accomplished producers, exploring music, creativity, legacy, mentorship, and the stories behind some of the industry’s most memorable records.

Annetta Powell joins Nick Egan Times for a powerful conversation about entrepreneurship, digital products, real estate investing, financial freedom, and building multiple streams of income.A bestselling author, award-winning digital product expert, and serial entrepreneur, Annetta Powell has generated more than $7 million in online revenue and built a reputation as one of the leading voices in online business and personal development. She is a three-time ClickFunnels 2 Comma Club Award winner, founder of the Digital Product Creators Community, and a successful real estate investor who owns more than 30 rental properties free and clear.In this episode, Annetta shares her journey from overcoming adversity to building a thriving business empire, revealing the strategies, mindset shifts, and lessons that helped her achieve long-term success. She discusses digital products, passive income, online marketing, business growth, real estate investing, wealth creation, and the importance of taking action on your ideas.The conversation also explores entrepreneurship, financial literacy, personal development, goal setting, leadership, and how aspiring business owners can create sustainable income streams in today’s digital economy.An inspiring discussion packed with practical advice, business insights, and motivation from an entrepreneur who has transformed her life and helped countless others do the same.

Stacey Reiss joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about filmmaking, storytelling, leadership in the entertainment industry, and the evolving future of film and television.An Emmy Award-winning producer and creative executive, Stacey serves as Head of Film at Wavelength, where she oversees both scripted and unscripted projects across the global entertainment landscape. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to developing powerful stories that challenge perspectives, elevate underrepresented voices, and create meaningful cultural impact.In this episode, Stacey discusses her journey through the film industry, the creative and business realities of producing content in today’s rapidly changing media environment, and the importance of authentic storytelling. She also shares insights into developing documentary features, narrative films, and premium television projects for major platforms and audiences around the world.The conversation explores filmmaking, producing, documentaries, Hollywood, streaming platforms, creative leadership, entertainment industry trends, media innovation, and the future of storytelling.A fascinating discussion with one of the industry’s most respected creative leaders, whose work continues to shape the stories audiences watch and the conversations that follow.

Maisy Kay joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable rise in the music industry, collaborating with some of the biggest names in electronic and pop music, and her journey from the English countryside to Los Angeles.Known for her powerful vocals, cinematic songwriting, and genre-blending sound, Maisy Kay has built an impressive international career, working with acclaimed artists and producers including Timbaland, Tiësto, Darkchild, and TheFatRat. Her breakout collaboration with TheFatRat, The Storm, has amassed more than 30 million streams worldwide, helping introduce her music to a global audience.In this episode, Maisy discusses her creative process, songwriting, moving to the United States to pursue her dreams, and the realities of building a career in today’s music industry. She also shares insights into her collaborations with major artists, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the inspiration behind her music.The conversation explores music production, songwriting, artist development, touring, creativity, perseverance, and what it takes to stand out in a highly competitive industry.We also discuss Maisy’s acclaimed single Vantablack, her growing international fanbase, and what’s next for one of the most exciting emerging voices in contemporary pop music.A fascinating conversation with a talented artist whose career continues to reach new heights around the world.

Annie Shapiro joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about music discovery, artist development, talent booking, and her influential role at one of the most powerful music platforms in the world.As Director of Talent Booking at Vevo, Annie works at the intersection of artists, record labels, and audiences, helping shape the next generation of music stars through Vevo’s acclaimed DSCVR program and the annual Artists to Watch campaign. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with major labels including Republic Records, Island Records, RCA Records, and Epic Records, while helping spotlight some of the biggest names in music.In this episode, Annie discusses the evolution of music discovery in the streaming era, the importance of artist development, and what separates emerging talent from future superstars. She also shares insights into Vevo’s influential DSCVR platform, the Artists to Watch program, and the process of identifying artists with long-term potential before they become household names.The conversation explores the modern music business, talent booking, record labels, artist branding, streaming platforms, music marketing, live performance, and the future of artist discovery.Annie’s work has helped support and elevate artists including The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Doja Cat, Future, Miley Cyrus, H.E.R., Demi Lovato, Lewis Capaldi, RAYE, Ice Spice, Chappell Roan, and many more.A fascinating behind-the-scenes discussion with one of the music industry’s leading talent executives, offering rare insight into how tomorrow’s biggest artists are discovered and developed.

Stephen Tulloch joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about life in the NFL, leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a purpose-driven legacy beyond professional sports.A former NFL linebacker and team captain, Stephen Tulloch enjoyed an outstanding 11-year career with the Tennessee Titans, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his leadership, toughness, and consistency on the field, Tulloch became one of the most respected defensive players of his era while competing at the highest level of professional football.In this episode, Stephen reflects on his NFL journey, the lessons learned from more than a decade in professional sports, and the mindset required to succeed under pressure. He also discusses the transition from athlete to entrepreneur, the importance of giving back, and how he has carried the discipline and leadership skills developed in football into the business world.The conversation also explores community impact, philanthropy, personal growth, leadership, teamwork, and Stephen’s mission-driven coffee company, Circle House Coffee, which focuses on creating meaningful change through business and community engagement.A powerful discussion about success, resilience, purpose, and what it takes to create a lasting impact long after the final whistle.

Mark Batson and Chris Hanebutt join Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about Grammy-winning music, film and television scoring, and their work on some of the most acclaimed projects in entertainment.Mark Batson is a six-time Grammy Award-winning producer, songwriter, pianist, and composer whose work has helped shape the careers of some of the biggest artists in music history. With more than 130 million albums sold worldwide, his credits include collaborations with Eminem, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Nas, Dave Matthews Band, and many more. Beyond music, Mark has also composed for major film and television productions including American Hustle, I, Tonya, Spider-Man 2, Empire, and Godfather of Harlem.Chris Hanebutt is an acclaimed composer, producer, mixer, and music supervisor whose credits span film, television, and hip hop. His work includes Wu-Tang: An American Saga, The Equalizer 2, Shots Fired, David Makes Man, Infinite, and Rob Peace, as well as collaborations with Mary J. Blige, Nipsey Hussle, Wiz Khalifa, and BJ The Chicago Kid. His song On the Come Up became the opening theme for the hit Power franchise.Together, Mark and Chris discuss their creative partnership, scoring HBO’s Critics Choice Award-winning documentary The Alabama Solution, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, as well as their work on Power Book IV: Force, the L.A. Law reboot, and other major film and television projects.This conversation explores music production, songwriting, film scoring, television composition, the creative process, working with legendary artists, and building a lasting career at the highest levels of the entertainment industry.A fascinating discussion with two world-class composers and producers whose work has helped define modern music, film, and television.

Debo Secured joins Nick Egan Times for a fascinating conversation about elite security, executive protection, protecting high-profile clients, and building one of the most respected security companies in the industry.As the founder of DeBo Secured LLC, Debo has established a reputation for delivering world-class executive protection, secure transportation, surveillance, event security, and risk management services across the United States and internationally. Operating in more than 18 states and global regions, DeBo Secured has become a trusted name among celebrities, entertainers, athletes, executives, and public figures requiring the highest levels of professionalism, discretion, and protection.In this episode, Debo shares his journey from his upbringing in Georgia to becoming a leader in the executive protection industry. He discusses the realities of protecting high-profile clients, managing risk in unpredictable environments, and the mindset required to operate at the highest level of personal security.The conversation explores executive protection, celebrity security, surveillance operations, secure transportation, leadership, entrepreneurship, discipline, threat assessment, and the challenges of protecting clients in today’s fast-changing world. Debo also discusses his work protecting major names connected to entertainment and music, including projects involving T.I., K Camp, and Spotify.A compelling behind-the-scenes look at the world of elite security and the professionals trusted to protect some of the most high-profile individuals and events in the world.

Aleks Paunovic joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable journey from professional boxing to becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors and producers.Known for his powerful screen presence, Aleks has appeared in major productions including Marvel’s Hawkeye, Reacher, Snowpiercer, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Suits LA, Kindergarten Cop 2, and numerous film and television projects that have made him a familiar face to audiences around the world.In this episode, Aleks reflects on the discipline and mindset he developed through boxing, how that foundation helped launch his acting career, and the lessons he has learned while working in some of the entertainment industry’s biggest productions. He also discusses his return to his boxing roots through his role in The Greatest, the upcoming Muhammad Ali series executive produced by Michael B. Jordan, and what it means to portray stories connected to one of the most iconic athletes in history.The conversation also explores entrepreneurship, personal growth, mental health advocacy, and Aleks’ work as co-founder of LEGEND Water, a brand dedicated to promoting wellness, resilience, and positive change.An inspiring conversation about perseverance, reinvention, Hollywood success, boxing, business, and building a meaningful legacy both on and off the screen.

Jeff Wenninger joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about leadership, law enforcement, dignitary protection, public safety, and a remarkable career spanning more than three decades with the Los Angeles Police Department.A retired LAPD Lieutenant with 33 years of service, Jeff Wenninger is nationally recognized for his expertise in law enforcement, use-of-force training, leadership development, and security operations. Throughout his distinguished career, he coordinated and managed protection details for U.S. Presidents, Vice Presidents, First Ladies, and visiting Heads of State, working at the highest levels of public safety and security.In this episode, Jeff shares insights from his years with the LAPD, discusses the challenges of modern policing, and reflects on the lessons he learned leading officers through complex situations. He also explores the importance of accountability, leadership, crisis management, and building trust within communities.Beyond law enforcement, Jeff has expanded his expertise into the private sector, overseeing security operations for major entertainment events, high-profile clients, and professional sports organizations, including a Major League Baseball team.This fascinating conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at dignitary protection, law enforcement leadership, public safety, security management, and the experiences that shaped one of the most respected voices in the field today.

This is a special tribute re-release of an in depth interview with the legendary late Pepe Willie, a foundational figure in the Minneapolis music scene and an early mentor, producer and cousin-in-law to Prince. Originally published on February 25, 2023, this interview captures Pepe’s passion, stories and the brilliant musical mind that helped influence an entire musical movement. Pepe was a genius and Godfather of the Minneapolis Sound.In this episode, we talk about:His early life and musical journeyWorking with 94 East and developing young talentHis amazing relationship with a young Prince, how he helped shaped his career and unbelievable insights into a young Prince and the early Minneapolis soundHis thoughts on creativity, legacy and the future of musicIconic stories from behind the scenesThis interview is being re-released in Pepe’s honor as we reflect on his extraordinary contributions to music. His influence continues to live on through the artists he inspired and the history he helped create.Thank you for listening and for helping celebrate the legacy of Pepe Willie.From the streets of Bed-Stuy to the studios of Minneapolis, Pepé was a multi-talented powerhouse: producer, songwriter, musician, mentor, and consultant. Widely known as the Godfather of the Minneapolis Sound, he played a pivotal role in shaping the early artistic identity of one of music’s greatest icons.He not only produced Prince’s earliest sessions with 94 East, but personally guided the young prodigy—opening doors, sharpening his studio instincts, and teaching him the business side of music.In this interview, Pepé shares:What it was like discovering Prince as a teen and instantly recognizing a once-in-a-generation talentBehind-the-scenes stories from the early Minneapolis scene, the rehearsal rooms, and those legendary demo sessionsRare insights into Prince’s work ethic, creative evolution, and the moments that foreshadowed his superstardomPowerful personal stories from Pepé’s own journey - From Brooklyn’s music culture to becoming a foundational figure in Prince’s artistic developmentIf you’re fascinated by music history, creative genius, or the origins of an icon, this interview is unmissable. Get ready for deep insights, untold stories, and an up-close look at a true pioneer who helped shape modern music.

Anika Hussen and Nia Raasikh join Nick Egan Times to discuss their dark comedy short film Girl Dinner, a bold and honest exploration of modern relationships, friendship, identity, and the complexities of navigating life as young women.Drawing on their diverse backgrounds in filmmaking, storytelling, and entertainment, Anika and Nia have combined their creative talents to write and direct a film that blends humor, chaos, and emotional authenticity. Anika brings experience from projects and collaborations connected to Marvel, Hulu, and Dolby, while Nia’s background in entertainment marketing includes work with major studios such as Warner Bros. and Amazon MGM.In this episode, they share the inspiration behind Girl Dinner, the creative process of co-writing and co-directing a film, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and the importance of telling stories that feel genuine and relatable. They also discuss character development, visual storytelling, collaboration, and what it takes to bring a passion project from concept to screen.The conversation explores filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, independent film, dark comedy, storytelling, creativity, women in film, and the future of emerging voices in the entertainment industry.A fascinating discussion with two rising filmmakers whose work is helping shape the next generation of independent cinema.

Marc Friedant joins Nick Egan Times for an insightful conversation about leadership, business transformation, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of guiding an iconic American brand through periods of change and growth.As CEO of Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers, Marc Friedant has helped lead one of the most recognized names in the jewelry industry through a remarkable evolution. With a background in finance and business leadership, Marc shares how his experience prepared him to navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and help reshape the future of the company.In this episode, Marc discusses his journey from the world of finance to becoming CEO of Robbins Brothers, the lessons learned from leading during the pandemic, and the employee-led buyout that helped redefine the company’s culture, vision, and direction. He also shares valuable insights into leadership, decision-making, customer experience, company growth, and building resilient teams in an ever-changing business environment.The conversation explores entrepreneurship, executive leadership, business strategy, company culture, personal development, and what it takes to successfully lead a well-established brand into the future.A fascinating discussion with one of the business leaders helping shape the next chapter of an iconic American company.

Orlando McGhee joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about talent development, artist management, A&R, music business strategy, and the behind-the-scenes work that helps shape successful careers in the music industry.Currently Head of Urban Music at ONErpm and formerly an A&R executive at Roc Nation and Warner Bros., Orlando McGhee has spent decades identifying talent, building careers, and helping artists navigate the ever-changing music business landscape. Throughout his career, he has worked with and helped develop artists including Lil Jon, Future, E-40, Method Man, CeeLo Green, Goodie Mob, Jaden Smith, Willow Smith, Crime Mob, Organized Noize, and many others.In this episode, Orlando shares insights from his journey through the music industry, discusses the realities of artist development, management, A&R, record labels, streaming, and entrepreneurship, and reflects on what it takes to build a lasting career in music. He also offers valuable advice for emerging artists, producers, executives, and anyone looking to succeed in today’s entertainment business.The conversation explores Roc Nation, Warner Bros., ONErpm, hip hop, urban music, artist branding, talent discovery, leadership, music marketing, and the future of the industry.A fascinating discussion with one of the music industry’s most respected executives and talent developers, whose influence can be seen across multiple generations of artists and hit records.

Kelsey Marie Edwards joins Nick Egan Times for a conversation about acting, music, creativity, and building a career across multiple areas of the entertainment industry.Known for her performances in Minor Details, The Wolf of Snow Hollow, The Counterfeit Kid, Underdeveloped, and the Tribeca-selected feature Memes & Nightmares, Kelsey Marie Edwards has established herself as a versatile actress with experience across film, television, comedy, and independent cinema. Beyond acting, she is also a singer, songwriter, content creator, and storyteller who continues to connect with audiences through her creative work.In this episode, Kelsey discusses her journey into acting, the lessons she has learned working on film and television productions, balancing multiple creative passions, and the importance of authenticity in an ever-changing entertainment industry. She also shares insights into her music, content creation, and what inspires her as both an artist and performer.The conversation explores Hollywood, independent film, acting, songwriting, creativity, career development, storytelling, and the realities of pursuing a life in the arts.An engaging discussion with a multi-talented performer whose work continues to span film, television, music, and digital media.

Marcia Kimpton joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about filmmaking, storytelling, travel, entrepreneurship, and building a creative career across multiple industries.An award-winning filmmaker, director, producer, writer, actress, and global travel expert, Marcia Kimpton has spent decades creating original projects that blend adventure, culture, and compelling storytelling. She is the creator of the feature film An American Abroad, a unique travel-inspired production that explores personal discovery, international experiences, and life beyond borders.In this episode, Marcia discusses the making of An American Abroad, her passion for independent filmmaking, and the lessons she has learned throughout her career working across film, television, media, and digital platforms. She also shares insights into launching her travel and lifestyle platform Kimpton Travels & Films and hosting her late-night television program Bright Lights Late Night.The conversation explores filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, travel, entrepreneurship, creative freedom, storytelling, women in film, and the importance of pursuing ambitious ideas on a global scale.A fascinating discussion with a multi-talented creator whose work continues to inspire audiences through film, travel, media, and authentic storytelling around the world.

Larissa Dali joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about acting, filmmaking, producing, modeling, and building a creative career through resilience, determination, and storytelling.A true multi-hyphenate talent, Larissa Dali has earned recognition across film and television with appearances in projects including The Cleaning Lady, Becky, A Gettysburg Christmas, Deadly Escape, The Omicron Killer, and Tyler Perry Studios’ Ole Gray Mare. Her work spans drama, thriller, comedy, and independent filmmaking, showcasing a versatility that has helped her carve out a unique place in the entertainment industry.In this episode, Larissa reflects on her journey as an actress, producer, model, writer, and filmmaker, discussing the lessons she has learned while navigating Hollywood, overcoming challenges, and pursuing creative opportunities across multiple disciplines. She also shares insights into the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and believing in your vision even when the path forward is uncertain.The conversation also explores her exciting upcoming limited television series Linda, where Larissa steps into the roles of creator, director, and star. She discusses the inspiration behind the project, the creative process of developing original content, and what audiences can expect from this ambitious new chapter in her career.A fascinating discussion about creativity, entrepreneurship, filmmaking, personal growth, and the power of turning challenges into opportunities while building a lasting career in entertainment.

Freya Adams joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her acting career, filmmaking journey, and passion for creating meaningful stories both in front of and behind the camera.Known for her acclaimed performance as Gwen 2.0 in the science fiction film Advantageous, Freya Adams has built an impressive career across film, television, and commercial productions. Her work has earned recognition for its depth, versatility, and commitment to portraying complex and compelling characters.In this episode, Freya discusses her experiences working on projects including Advantageous, New Amsterdam, The Rookie, and The Blacklist, while sharing insights into the realities of life as a working actress in today’s entertainment industry. She also reflects on screenwriting, producing, creative storytelling, and the importance of diverse voices in film and television.The conversation explores acting, filmmaking, television, independent cinema, character development, creativity, women in entertainment, and building a sustainable career in Hollywood.A fascinating discussion with an accomplished actress, writer, and producer whose work continues to inspire audiences and contribute to the future of film and television.

Reggie Gooden joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about the business side of the entertainment industry, managing major artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, and influencers, and building one of Hollywood’s fastest-growing business management firms.As the Founder and CEO of 360 Business Management, Reggie has become one of the most respected business managers in entertainment, earning recognition from Billboard, Variety, and The Hollywood Reporter for his work with top tier talent across music, film, television, sports, and digital media.  In this episode, Reggie discusses the financial and business strategies behind successful entertainment careers, the realities of managing elite talent, and what artists need to know about wealth creation, long-term planning, and career longevity. He also shares insights from working with Grammy winning producers and major music industry figures, including those involved in Justin Bieber’s global success and hit records such as Peaches.  The conversation explores artist management, entertainment business, music industry finance, entrepreneurship, wealth management, celebrity branding, business leadership, and the evolving landscape of Hollywood and digital media.A fascinating discussion with one of the entertainment industry’s leading business advisors, offering a behind the scenes look at how successful careers are built, protected, and sustained.

Charmaine Dominguez joins Nick Egan Times for an insightful conversation about diabetes reversal, metabolic health, nutrition, entrepreneurship, and her mission to help people transform their lives through evidence-based lifestyle change.As the founder of Reversing Diabetes Revolution, Charmaine has become one of the leading voices in the metabolic health space, building a community of nearly one million followers and helping more than 1,000 people achieve Type 2 diabetes remission through sustainable nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Her work has been recognized by leading health and medical publications, making her a trusted educator for people seeking practical solutions to improve their health.In this episode, Charmaine discusses her personal journey, the science behind insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, the power of whole-food, plant-focused nutrition, and the lifestyle habits that can dramatically improve long-term health outcomes. She also shares insights into building a successful online business, creating impactful health content, and empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing.The conversation explores diabetes prevention, diabetes remission, metabolic health, nutrition, healthy living, entrepreneurship, coaching, wellness education, and the future of preventative healthcare.A fascinating discussion with one of the most influential voices in modern health and nutrition, dedicated to helping people live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

Ashlee Keating joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her music career, Billboard chart success, songwriting journey, acting projects, and the evolution of her career as one of pop music’s rising stars. A singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, and content creator, Ashlee Keating has built an impressive career across multiple entertainment industries. Known for Billboard-charting singles including Hurt Me So Good and Bad Mistake, she has earned recognition for her powerful vocals, energetic performances, and ability to connect with audiences around the world.In this episode, Ashlee discusses her breakthrough in the music industry, the inspiration behind her songs, her experiences working in television and film, and the lessons she has learned while navigating the entertainment business at a young age. She also shares insights into her creative process, her passion for performance, and the story behind her latest music, including her single Too Toxic.The conversation explores pop music, songwriting, artist development, social media, creativity, acting, personal growth, and what it takes to build a long-term career in today’s rapidly changing entertainment landscape.An inspiring discussion with a multi-talented artist whose music, creativity, and determination continue to make an impact on audiences worldwide.

Jason Hollis joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, music, visual art, and his mission to build one of Nashville’s most unique cultural destinations.A respected creative visionary, producer, artist, and entrepreneur, Jason Hollis has worked alongside some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Pharrell Williams and Justin Timberlake. Throughout his career, he has helped develop innovative projects across music, media, digital platforms, and live entertainment, while also producing content for major companies including Netflix and YouTube.In this episode, Jason discusses his journey through the music and creative industries, collaborating with world-renowned artists, the lessons learned from building successful ventures, and the importance of taking creative risks. He also shares the story behind The Eighth Room, the ambitious transformation of Nashville’s historic Douglas Corner into a one-of-a-kind venue and cultural experience inspired by legendary music destinations and rock ‘n’ roll history.The conversation explores entrepreneurship, music production, branding, creativity, leadership, the future of live entertainment, and what it takes to turn a bold vision into reality.An insightful discussion with a true creative entrepreneur whose work continues to influence music, culture, and the evolving entertainment landscape.

Hunter Elizabeth joins Nick Egan Times for a conversation about her rising music career, creative journey, and the exciting new chapter she is building as a singer, songwriter, model, and actress.Praised by Jennifer Lopez for having a voice that is “smooth like butter,” Hunter Elizabeth has quickly established herself as one of the most promising emerging artists in pop music. Her debut EP, Hello: My Name is HUNTER, has generated more than 1.2 million streams, introducing audiences to her distinctive sound, powerful vocals, and authentic storytelling.In this episode, Hunter discusses her latest single Disco Ball, the inspiration behind her music, and the creative process behind her highly anticipated sophomore EP. She also reflects on her experiences in the entertainment industry, balancing music, modeling, and acting, and the lessons she has learned while building her career.The conversation explores songwriting, artist development, female empowerment, creativity, life on the road, and the influence of legendary artists including Willie Nelson.A compelling discussion with an emerging artist whose talent, determination, and passion for music continue to attract audiences around the world.

Savannah Jade joins Nick Egan Times to discuss her rising country music career, her journey from award-winning duo Five Roses to solo artist, and the release of her highly anticipated self-titled EP.Known for her powerful vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and captivating stage presence, Savannah Jade has quickly emerged as one of Canada’s most exciting country music artists. After achieving success as one half of the acclaimed country duo Five Roses, she has stepped into the spotlight as a solo performer, earning recognition for her authentic storytelling and contemporary country sound.In this episode, Savannah reflects on her musical journey, the transition from duo to solo artist, the inspiration behind her self-titled EP, and the creative process that shapes her music. She also shares insights into songwriting, performing, navigating the music industry, and building a lasting career in country music.The conversation explores country music, songwriting, artist development, creativity, life on the road, the Canadian music scene, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career as an independent artist.A fascinating conversation with one of Canada’s most promising country music talents as she embarks on an exciting new chapter of her career.

Patricia Velásquez joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her groundbreaking career in fashion, film, philanthropy, and advocacy.Widely recognized as the world’s first Latina supermodel, Patricia made history after winning Miss Venezuela and becoming one of the most successful international models of her generation. She went on to work with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Chanel, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Victoria’s Secret, helping pave the way for greater representation throughout the global fashion industry.Patricia also achieved worldwide recognition through her role in The Mummy film franchise, establishing herself as a successful actress while continuing to build an influential career beyond the runway.In this episode, Patricia discusses her journey from Venezuela to the international stage, her experiences in fashion and Hollywood, working with iconic brands and filmmakers, the challenges and opportunities she encountered throughout her career, and her dedication to philanthropy and humanitarian work.The conversation explores modeling, acting, fashion, Hollywood, entrepreneurship, personal growth, advocacy, leadership, and the importance of using success to create positive change.An inspiring conversation with a true trailblazer whose impact extends far beyond fashion and film.

Sheléa joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about her Grammy and Emmy nominated music career, working alongside some of the most influential figures in modern music, and the journey that has taken her to some of the world’s most prestigious stages.A celebrated singer, songwriter, pianist, producer, and actress, Sheléa has earned recognition for her extraordinary vocal talent and musicianship while collaborating with legendary artists including Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, David Foster, and Rickey Minor. Her work has established her as one of the most respected contemporary performers in soul, jazz, R&B, and inspirational music.In this episode, Sheléa discusses her musical journey, the lessons she has learned from working with industry icons, and what it was like performing at renowned venues and institutions including The White House, The Kennedy Center, The Library of Congress, and The Vatican. She also reflects on the importance of perseverance, artistic growth, and staying true to her creative vision.The conversation explores songwriting, music performance, creativity, mentorship, faith, leadership, and the experiences that have shaped her career on the global stage.Sheléa also shares insights into her powerful new single, “Never Give Up On Love,” and discusses the inspiration behind the music and message that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.A fascinating conversation with one of today’s most accomplished and inspiring musical artist.

Donna Vekić joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her journey through professional tennis, winning Olympic Silver, competing at Grand Slam level, and establishing herself as one of the world’s top players on the WTA Tour.As one of Croatia’s most successful tennis stars, Donna has built an impressive career highlighted by multiple WTA titles, deep runs at Grand Slam tournaments, and a Silver Medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In 2025, she continued her rise by capturing the prestigious Queen’s Club Championship title, one of the biggest victories of her career and a major milestone on the WTA Tour.In this episode, Donna discusses her experiences competing against the world’s best players, the mental and physical demands of professional tennis, representing Croatia on the international stage, Olympic success, Grand Slam competition, and what it takes to perform consistently at the highest level of the sport.The conversation explores tennis, athlete development, high-performance mindset, overcoming adversity, life on tour, career longevity, and the lessons learned from competing on the biggest stages in world sport.A fascinating discussion with an Olympic Silver Medallist, Queen’s Club Champion, and one of the leading players in modern women’s tennis.

Mark “Money” Green joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about one of the most influential careers in hip-hop, R&B, talent management, and live entertainment.As the founder of Celebrity Talent Agency Inc., Chairman of Artist Relations at The Hip Hop Museum, and General Manager of the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, Mark “Money” Green has spent decades working behind the scenes with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment.Throughout his remarkable career, Mark has worked with and helped shape opportunities for legendary artists including Prince, Jay-Z, Usher, Diana Ross, Aaliyah, Will Smith, Eddie Murphy, Salt-N-Pepa, Dru Hill, Melba Moore, Missy Elliott, Timbaland, Lil Jon, the Backstreet Boys, and many more.In this episode, Mark shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from the music industry, discusses the evolution of hip-hop and R&B, reflects on artist development, talent management, concert promotion, and the business of entertainment, and offers unique insights into working with some of the most iconic performers of the last several decades.The conversation also explores the importance of preserving hip-hop culture through The Hip Hop Museum, the changing landscape of the music business, and lessons learned from a lifetime spent helping artists build lasting careers.A fascinating discussion with one of the most respected executives and talent representatives in music, whose impact can be felt across generations of hip-hop, R&B, pop culture, and live entertainment.

Andy James joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about music, creativity, reinvention, and a remarkable career that has spanned both dance and jazz.Before establishing herself as an acclaimed jazz vocalist, Andy James built an international reputation as a flamenco dancer, performing around the world and developing a deep appreciation for artistic expression and storytelling through performance. That unique journey ultimately led her into the world of jazz, where she has become one of the genre’s most respected contemporary voices.In this episode, Andy discusses her acclaimed album Let Me See Your Heart, a collection that reimagines timeless classics with fresh interpretations and heartfelt performances, including her celebrated rendition of Billy Joel’s New York State of Mind. She also shares insights into her creative process, her evolution as an artist, and her passion for preserving and celebrating great music.The conversation also explores Andy’s exciting upcoming flamenco vocal project, which brings together world-class musicians and legendary artists, including Carlos Santana, while blending the traditions of flamenco, jazz, and global music influences.A fascinating discussion about music, artistic growth, jazz, flamenco, songwriting, performance, and the lifelong pursuit of creative excellence.

Genius joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about music, entrepreneurship, artist development, and building a successful career behind the scenes of the entertainment industry.Known as the CEO of Monopoly and a respected music executive, DJ, and entrepreneur, Genius has established himself as a significant force in hip hop and contemporary music. As the business partner of multi-platinum recording artist K Camp and a driving force behind Rare Sound, he has helped develop artists, build brands, and create opportunities across the music business.In this episode, Genius discusses his journey from DJing and music culture to becoming a successful executive and entrepreneur. He shares insights into working with artists, navigating the evolving music industry, building business ventures, and the mindset required to succeed in entertainment. The conversation also touches on major figures in hip hop, including Drake, and explores the changing landscape of modern music and artist development.The conversation explores hip hop, music production, artist management, entrepreneurship, branding, leadership, independent music, streaming, record labels, and the challenges of building a lasting career in a highly competitive industry. Genius also reflects on his work with Rare Sound, his collaborations within the music world, and the vision behind his projects, including his album Back to the Future 2.A fascinating discussion with a music executive and entrepreneur who continues to make an impact on both the business and creative sides of the entertainment industry.

Michaela Vybohova joins Nick Egan Times for a conversation about fashion, entrepreneurship, luxury footwear, and building a globally recognized personal brand.A successful international model and businesswoman, Michaela has worked across the fashion industry while establishing herself as the founder of luxury footwear brand Michaela V. Her designs have been worn by global stars including Beyoncé, Halsey, and Olivia Culpo, helping her brand gain recognition among celebrities, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.In this episode, Michaela discusses her journey from the runway to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a luxury fashion brand, and what it takes to stand out in one of the world’s most competitive industries. She also shares insights into fashion, modeling, design, creativity, branding, and the business of luxury products.The conversation explores the evolution of the fashion industry, building an international reputation, working with high-profile clients, and balancing life as both a model and entrepreneur.A fascinating discussion with a fashion leader whose work has been featured in publications including Harper’s Bazaar, L’Officiel, and Numéro, and whose luxury footwear brand continues to make an impact around the world.

Bill Schuffenhauer joins Nick Egan Times for a powerful conversation about perseverance, overcoming adversity, Olympic competition, and the mindset required to achieve success at the highest level.A three-time Olympian, Olympic silver medalist, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, Bill Schuffenhauer has one of the most inspiring stories in American sports. Despite facing significant challenges and adversity throughout his childhood, Bill refused to let his circumstances define his future, ultimately rising to represent the United States on the world stage and compete in three Olympic Games.In this episode, Bill shares his remarkable journey from a difficult upbringing to becoming an elite athlete, the lessons learned from competing at the Winter Olympics, and the determination required to perform under immense pressure. He also discusses leadership, resilience, personal growth, mental toughness, and how he transformed life’s obstacles into opportunities for success.The conversation explores Olympic sports, Team USA, motivation, entrepreneurship, goal setting, overcoming adversity, and the habits that separate champions from the rest.An inspiring and uplifting discussion with an athlete whose story proves that your past does not determine your future.

Amanda Gabbard joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about building a successful career in the beauty, fashion, television, and entertainment industries.A highly respected celebrity makeup artist, esthetician, bridal beauty specialist, and beauty expert, Amanda has spent more than two decades working with clients across television, film, fashion, media, and live events. Her work has been featured in leading publications including Vogue, The New York Times, Brides, HuffPost, Apple News, and Hollywood Life, establishing her as one of the most sought-after professionals in the beauty industry.In this episode, Amanda shares insights from her career in New York City, discusses the evolving beauty and fashion landscape, and reflects on working behind the scenes across television productions, editorial photo shoots, fashion week events, weddings, and celebrity projects. She also talks about her experiences as a beauty host on Amazon Live, Style Code Live, and Amazon Prime Day, along with the skills required to thrive in a highly competitive industry.The conversation explores celebrity makeup artistry, skincare, beauty trends, entrepreneurship, fashion, media, television, personal branding, and the dedication required to build a long-lasting career in the beauty world.A fascinating discussion with one of the industry’s leading beauty professionals whose work continues to influence clients, audiences, and aspiring artists around the world.

Robert J. Sawyer joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about science fiction, storytelling, artificial intelligence, and a remarkable literary career that has made him one of the most celebrated authors in the genre.Widely regarded as one of Canada’s greatest science fiction writers, Robert J. Sawyer is among a select group of authors to have won all three of science fiction’s most prestigious awards: the Hugo Award, the Nebula Award, and the John W. Campbell Memorial Award. Across a career spanning decades, he has written more than 25 novels that have captivated readers around the world and explored themes ranging from artificial intelligence and consciousness to space exploration, technology, and the future of humanity.In this episode, Robert discusses his journey as an author, the creative process behind crafting award-winning science fiction, the evolution of the genre, and the inspiration behind his latest novel, The Downloaded. He also shares insights into the future of technology, the role of AI in society, and why science fiction remains one of the most powerful ways to explore the challenges and opportunities facing humanity.The conversation explores writing, publishing, science fiction, futurism, artificial intelligence, creativity, storytelling, and the changing relationship between technology and human life.A fascinating discussion with one of the most accomplished and influential science fiction authors of our time.

Ray Buffer joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable career across film, television, music videos, voice acting, and live entertainment.A veteran actor, singer, voice artist, and performer, Ray Buffer has built an extraordinary body of work spanning decades in Hollywood. His extensive list of credits includes appearances in major productions such as Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, 80 for Brady, The Hulk, The West Wing, The X-Files, Gilmore Girls, CSI: Miami, Daredevil, ER, NYPD Blue, JAG, Cold Case, Malcolm in the Middle, and Unsolved Mysteries, among many others.In this episode, Ray shares stories from his journey through the entertainment industry, working across television, film, theater, voiceover, and music projects. He discusses the realities of building a long-lasting career in Hollywood, adapting to an ever-changing industry, and the lessons learned from collaborating with some of the biggest names in entertainment.The conversation also explores acting, performance, voice work, storytelling, creativity, perseverance, and what it takes to remain successful and relevant across multiple decades in show business.A fascinating discussion with one of Hollywood’s most versatile and accomplished performers whose career spans some of the most recognizable productions in modern entertainment.

Stanly Maponga joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about making history, overcoming adversity, and building a legacy that extends far beyond the football field.Widely recognized as the first Zimbabwean-born player to reach the NFL, Stanly’s remarkable journey took him from Zimbabwe to the highest levels of professional football in the United States. During his career, he played in the NFL, CFL, and XFL, including stints with the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, and other professional organizations, becoming a trailblazer for African athletes pursuing opportunities in American football.In this episode, Stanly reflects on the challenges of adapting to a new country, chasing an NFL dream, and the perseverance required to compete at the highest level of professional sports. He also shares lessons learned from his football career, the importance of resilience, leadership, family, faith, and maintaining a positive mindset through life’s challenges.Since this interview was recorded, Stanly has continued to expand his influence beyond football and business, becoming involved in ownership opportunities connected to the Dallas Cowboys and joining an ownership group associated with one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports.This conversation explores professional football, the NFL, leadership, entrepreneurship, personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and the mindset required to achieve success on and off the field.A powerful discussion with a history-making athlete whose journey continues to inspire future generations around the world.

Angelo Ellerbee joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about one of the most remarkable careers in entertainment, artist management, public relations, and celebrity branding.Widely recognized as one of the most influential figures behind the scenes in music and popular culture, Angelo Ellerbee is the founder and president of Double XXposure Media Relations and has spent decades helping shape the careers of some of the biggest names in entertainment. Throughout his legendary career, Angelo has worked with and represented global icons including Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Tyrese, Melba Moore, and DMX, whom he famously managed during a pivotal period of his career.In this episode, Angelo shares stories from his journey as a pioneering publicist, entrepreneur, author, artist developer, and entertainment executive. He discusses the importance of branding, publicity, artist development, leadership, and what it takes to build a lasting career in the entertainment industry.The conversation also explores his work with Double XXposure, the evolution of music and media, lessons learned from working alongside some of the world’s most celebrated artists, and the inspiration behind his book Before I Let You Go.A fascinating discussion with one of the most respected and accomplished figures in entertainment whose influence has helped shape generations of artists, executives, and industry leaders.

John Novello joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about music, creativity, personal transformation, and the principles behind designing a meaningful and successful life.A Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist, composer, educator, and bestselling author, John Novello has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning decades in the music industry. Known for his Billboard-charting jazz recordings, including the No. 1 hits B3 Soul and Good to Go, John has established himself as one of the most respected voices in contemporary jazz while performing and collaborating with some of the industry’s most accomplished musicians.Beyond his success in music, John is also the author of the Amazon bestselling book The Invisible Architect: How To Design Your Perfect Life From Within. The book combines personal experiences, spiritual insight, and practical self-development strategies to help people unlock their potential and create a more purposeful and fulfilling life.In this episode, John discusses his journey through the music industry, winning a Grammy Award, achieving success on the Billboard Jazz Charts, his passion for teaching and mentorship, and the inspiration behind The Invisible Architect. He also shares powerful insights on creativity, mindset, personal growth, spirituality, and the lessons he has learned throughout his career.A fascinating conversation that explores the intersection of music, success, self-discovery, and the power of creating the life you truly want to live.Subscribe now and listen to more episodes.