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Vanguard of Hollywood: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Shannon Allen
This uplifting Classic Hollywood podcast offers inspirational insights into the films of the Golden Age & the stars who made them great.
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The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- Nov 5, 202551 min
A Legacy of Grit: An Interview with Patrick Wayne
Patrick Wayne is an actor and former chairman of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. His more than four decade-long acting career includes roles in over 40 films, several of which paired Patrick with his legendary father, John Wayne. Whether starring alongside his dad in such classics as McLintock! (1963) and Big Jake (1971), or swashbuckling his way through cult classics like 1977’s Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger, Patrick proved himself a captivating leading man with Old Hollywood class and charm. Listen as Shannon and Patrick discuss his impressive acting career and legendary father.
- Oct 22, 202542 min
The Night of the Hunter: An Interview with Foster Hirsch
Shannon is joined by acclaimed film historian, biographer, and interviewer Foster Hirsch to discuss the 1955 cult classic, The Night of the Hunter. Listen as Foster and Shannon discuss the fascinating origins of the film, cast performances, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and religious allegory and faith-based themes that make The Night of the Hunter an enduring classic.
- Oct 8, 20251h 8m
Hollywood's Asian Superstar: An Interview with Nancy Kwan
Nancy Kwan is an actress, author, dancer, screenwriter, and filmmaker. With films such as 1960’s The World of Suzie Wong and 1961’s Flower Drum Song, Nancy became Hollywood’s first Asian Superstar. Her casting in roles specifically written for Asian actresses, and in non-race-specific roles, was unprecedented, changing the way moviegoers viewed the Asian community and creating more opportunities for Asians in the film industry. Join Shannon and Nancy as they discuss Nancy’s extraordinary life and career, from her films to her friendship with Bruce Lee and what it’s like to be serenaded by Elvis Presley. And be sure to read Nancy's new book, The World of Nancy Kwan: A Memoir by Hollywood’s Asian Superstar, for Nancy’s full story.
- Aug 20, 202542 min
A Living Legend: An Interview with Engelbert Humperdinck
In an incredible career that has spanned 60 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records worldwide, with songs ranging from romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and gospel. These records have earned him 64 gold albums, 35 platinum albums, four Grammy Award nominations, and a Golden Globe. Among Engelbert’s hit songs are “The Last Waltz,” “A Man Without Love,” “Quando, Quando, Quando,” and 1967’s “Release Me,” which dominated the music charts for 56 weeks, beating out the Beatles’ “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields” for the number one position on the charts, and depriving the Beatles of their 13th consecutive No.1. At 89 years old, Engelbert still performs around the world. Join Shannon and Engelbert as they discuss his inspiring life, from his childhood in India to his early career struggles, to meeting the love of his life and becoming an international music star who still makes audiences swoon. Don’t miss this charming conversation with the King of Romance himself.
- Aug 8, 202550 min
No Limits: An Interview with Billy Gray
Billy Gray is an actor, motorcycle speedway racer, and inventor. You may know him best as Bud Anderson from the hit television show, Father Knows Best (1954-1960). From his earliest film roles, Billy stood out as a kid actor who consistently brought great depth to the characters he created. Whether playing Doris Day’s mischievous little brother in On Moonlight Bay (1951) and By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953), Dan Dailey’s wise-cracking son in The Girl Next Door (1953), or Michael Rennie’s trusted young ally in The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), Billy Gray never played the same character twice. His uncanny ability to bring his roles to life underscored a talent developed well beyond his years. Listen as Shannon and Billy discuss his fascinating life in Hollywood, speedway racing, and innovation.
- May 14, 202547 min
A Disney Original: An Interview with Sharon Baird
Sharon Baird is a dancer, singer, and actress. You may know her best as one of Walt Disney’s original Mouseketeers on the classic television show, The Mickey Mouse Club. As one of only nine Mouseketeers to appear on all three seasons of the show, Sharon proved herself to be the best dancer in the bunch. Beginning her dance training at three years old, Sharon has danced with the likes of Mitzi Gaynor, Dean Martin, and Donald O’Connor. Sharon has also used dance to bring to life countless characters, including the puppets of Sid and Marty Krofft on such television shows as H.R. Pufnstuf, and the title character of the 1986 cult classic, Ratboy. Listen as Sharon and Shannon discuss Sharon’s remarkable Hollywood career and passion for dance.
- Apr 9, 202541 min
Elvis’ Leading Lady: An Interview with Cynthia Pepper
As Private First Class Midge Riley in 1964’s Kissin’ Cousins, Cynthia Pepper holds the distinction of being one of Elvis Presley’s leading ladies. In the film, Cynthia lived the dream of countless Elvis fans as she was chased by Elvis, sung to by Elvis, and kissed by Elvis. Even more enviable, behind the scenes, Cynthia formed a true friendship with her legendary leading man. Listen as Shannon and Cynthia discuss Cynthia’s time with Elvis, as well as her roles on countless classic television shows, including My Three Sons and The Addams Family.
- Mar 12, 202548 min
Sweet and Sassy: An Interview with Ann-Margret
Ann-Margret is a living legend. From Bye Bye Birdie (1963) and Viva Las Vegas (1964) to Tommy (1975) and Grumpy Old Men (1993), from her Billboard charting music career to her show stopping TV specials, Ann-Margret’s multi-dimensional talent and charisma are unrivaled. Join Ann-Margret and Shannon as they discuss Ann-Margret’s beautiful relationship with her parents, her incredible career, the wonderful costars and friends she worked with -- Pat Boone, Lucille Ball, Dean Martin, and John Wayne, to name a few -- her continued support of our troops, and the faith and gratitude that form the remarkable foundation of this living legend.
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