The Shazam Isis Podcast

Isis "...And Now You Don't" October 23, 1976

​Isis and Captain Marvel must team up to stop an out of control weather device from wrecking havoc on the town.

John and Richard wrap up their reviews of the two iconic television series of the 70s that we loved so much - Shazam! and The Secrets of Isis. In addition to the review, the two discuss the potential for an animated follow-up to Shazam, the fandom, and the future of the podcast.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Jealousy is a terrible feeling and one that can lead you to doing terrible things."

​Guest Cast

Jerry Douglas as Inspector Bryce

Ben Frank as The Professor

Michael Blodgett as Sam

and

John Davey as Captain Marvel

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And introducing the Super Sleuths

Evan Kim as C.J Howe

Craig Wasson as Feather

Ranji as Ranji

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Isis "Now You See It..." October 16, 1976

​Rick is accused of stealing a top secret weather control device and it's up to The Super Sleuths to prove his innocence. So how do Isis and Captain Marvel fit in all this?

John and Richard begin the first of the two-part finale of The Secrets of Isis with "Now You See It..." In this episode, they discuss Brian Cutler's opportunity to play straight after several episode where he was the comedic foil, the potential for a Super Sleuths show, and why the end of the series at this point makes sense.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Never take the law into your own hands. When you have evidence, share it with the proper authorities."​

Guest Cast

Jerry Douglas as Inspector Bryce

Ben Frank as The Professor

Michael Blodgett as Sam

and

John Davey as Captain Marvel

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And introducing the Super Sleuths

Evan Kim as C.J Howe

Craig Wasson as Feather

Ranji as Ranji

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Shazam! "Out of Focus" October 16, 1976

​An aspiring filmmaker captures a robbery on film. Now, the thieves are out to get the film, but he sees it as his ticket to success in a local film festival. Can Captain Marvel and Isis ensure this film makes it to the screen while keeping the young Spielberg safe?

It's the final episode of the Shazam! series as John and Richard discuss the location of this particular episode, the professionalism of Michael Gray, the clunky resolution to a story that Isis could have solved with a simple incantation, and Shazam/Isis fandom. Plus: We have two flashbacks of our own in this episode!

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "We've all been faced by temptation - a chance to win a contest, maybe cheat on an exam or make some easy money in a dishonest way, but most of us know better than to fall for things like that. In today's story, Jim learned what Zeus meant when he said, 'Those who act dishonestly to win, walk in disgrace, perhaps even in danger.' So play it safe and play it smart. Don't be fooled by temptation. The honest way is the best way."

Guest Cast

Andrew Stevens as Jim

Nancy Morgan as Kathy

Richard Stanley as Marty

Cliff Wilson as Len

and

Joanna Cameron as Andrea Thomas/Isis

Isis "Year of the Dragon" October 9, 1976

​A Chinese teen wins a prize for a competition at school and tries to avoid having her father show up for the awards ceremony. She goes to such lengths to avoid it that she places herself and her father in danger.

John and Richard are back in the RV and making their final stops along the highways and byways of the land exploring those two Saturday morning series of the 70s we loved as kids - Shazam! and the Secrets of Isis. We continue with an Isis episode, "Year of the Dragon". In it, the two discuss how 1976 was the Year of the Dragon, the Chinese stereotypes, and are confused by what the character of Julie has to be ashamed of in her father when he seems really cool.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Always show pride for your culture and do not let a generational divide determine how you view your culture."

​Guest Cast

Victor Song Yung as Mr. Chen

Roger Kern as Dave Parkes

Jeanne Joe as Julie Chen

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Shazam!"The Sound of aDifferent Drummer"October 9, 1976

Curtis is a young man blessed with great shortstop skills in baseball, but he prefers to focus his practice time on being a violinist. His teammates have other ideas and will stop at nothing to get him to play in an important game. Will Billy, Mentor, Captain Marvel, and Maury Wills himself be able to make this situation right?

It's the penultimate episode of the Shazam! series as John and Richard discuss the waning years (in John's opinion) of baseball, the missed potential in the cat, Polecat, and which actor the Mego Shazam! figure looks like.

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It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

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Moral: "Billy: Maury Wills is one of the most respected men in baseball, not just because he was a great player, mostly because he respects others. You know, in some ways, all of us are different, but in one way we're all alike. We all want people to like and to respect us. Maury Wills: That's right, Billy. And the way to bring that about is to treat others as you would like them to treat you. It's called, do unto others and it means, if you give respect, you'll get it back."

Guest Cast

Eric Laneuville as Curtis

Benny Medina as Dennis

David Doremus as Jerry

Lenore Kingston as Adele Sauber

Ed Fury as Guard

and

Maury Wills as Maury Wills

Isis "The Cheerleader" October 2, 1976

​A student at school cheats on a chemistry test and then frames the head of the cheerleading squad in the hopes of taking over the position.

John and Richard are back in the RV and making their final stops along the highways and byways of the land exploring those two Saturday morning series of the 70s we loved as kids - Shazam! and the Secrets of Isis. We start with an Isis episode, "The Cheerleader" where John and Richard discuss the hairstyles of the 70s, the popularity of guest star Laurette Spang, and the inconsistent practical effects.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Taking shortcuts to get what you want never works out the way you planned."

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Guest Cast

Laurette Spang as Ann

Danil Torppe as Tom

Colleen Camp as Wynn

Isis "The Class Clown" September 25, 1976

​Isis tries to convince a young man that while his practical jokes may be humorous and have no malicious intent, they can lead to disaster.

We have to ask, didn't we cover this story in the last season? And didn't the previous story, "Funny Gal" do it better? John and Richard sit down to discuss what is a technically proficient story that hits all the beats, but in the end feels like a retread of themes from the previous season. In addition, they also talk about the unlikability of the guest character.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Practical jokes may have no harmful intent, but when not thought out can lead to disaster."

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Guest Cast

Alvin Kupperman as Rudy

David Cole as Stanley

and

Albert Reed as Dr. Barnes

Shazam! "Ripcord" September 25, 1976

Bill is a young boy who is in a hurry to grow up so that he too can skydive like his older brother. The problem is, he's in so much of a hurry, he doesn't always think and gets himself and his brother into trouble. Can Billy help Bill see how wrong he is or will it take an act that gets his brother in danger for him to see the error of his ways?

John and Richard discuss the Mego line of toys that features Captain Marvel, the brevity of the episode in terms of length of story time, and John's horrible flashbacks to Jaime Sommers' skydiving accident.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Sometimes there are things that a kid wants to do but he's too young for. Be patient. We grow up a lot sooner than we think."

Guest Cast

James Daughton as Larry Sherwood

Patrick Labyorteaux as Bill Sherwood

Susan Pratt as Dorothy Kaufman

William Bryant as Harry Miller

Isis "The Hitchhikers" September 18, 1976

Isis must convince two teens about the dangers of hitchhiking because the reckless activity costs them their lives.

We're back to our reviews of Isis with a look at the second episode of the second season. John and Richard discuss how this episode might play out if it were produced today, they argue over whether or not hitchhiking is relevant today in an Uber society, and the film techniques used to make this episode.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Hitchhiking is a dangerous activity. You should never get in a car unless you absolutely know and trust the person driving the vehicle."

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Guest Cast

Jewel Blanch as Hope

Barry Miller as Charlie

Lynn Tufeld as Joanne Clayton

Brad David as Steve

Shazam! "Bitter Herbs" September 18, 1976

Yale is a teen who wants to join an outdoor group called "The Overlanders". But one of the leaders has a problem with this because Yale and his family are Jewish. What he doesn't know is that Yale's father is also helping Mexican authorities with smuggling of religious artifacts across the border.

We're back with our first review in over a year and we start off with one of the best episodes in the series. John and Richard discuss the stunt flying that reminded John of Jackson Bostwick's work in the first season, how this episode stands out for how it handles the theme of tolerance compared to other shows of the 70s, and the unprecedented three appearances of Captain Marvel in this episode.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Prejudice and bigotry are two words that mean not liking somebody, calling them names because they different somebody. It's pretty silly. In some ways, all of us are different, in others, we're all the same. The important thing about a person is not the color of his hair or his skin, or his religion, whether he's tall of short, skinny or fat. What is important is something called character. Ask yourself is he honest? Does he care about others? Is he good? If the answers yes, call him friend."

Guest Cast

Lindin Chiles as Orin Clyde

Milt Kogan as Jack Michaels

James Van Patten as Harry

David Gruner as Yale Michaels

Darel Glaser as Joe Olveira

After a near year-and-a-half absence, the podcast returns. Before John and Richard set off once again in the RV to travel the highways and the byways of the land discussing those two iconic shows we love so much, they need to do a little house cleaning, or RV cleaning, if you will.

They discuss DC's decision to cancel a planned release of the classic Monster Society of Evil, Shazam! in HD on DC Universe, the fate of DC Universe, the fate of Isis in a modern world, and the recent Shazam movie.

​It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Shazam! "Finders Keepers" October 2, 1976

A pair of Catholic School girls discover a chest of stolen money on the beach. They decide to keep it with the best of intentions for it, but the thieves who stole it want it back and will do anything to make that happen, including kidnapping the girls and Mentor. It's up to Captain Marvel and Isis to save the day.

It's another great cross-over episode as Joanna Cameron guest stars as Andrea Thomas and Isis! And so we decided to make the podcast just as special. Shazam! series star, Michael Gray, joins us to discuss the episode, working with Joanna Cameron and Tut the bird, "Big John" the stunt double for John Davey in this episode, the talent of Les Tremaine, and the lost Christmas outtakes reel.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Laura and Kate learn that doing something wrong, even if it's for a good reason, doesn't make it right. A wrong deed is usually the beginning. You find yourself trying to cover it up and then the wrong deed has lead to lies and then they get bigger and bigger. Most of the time we can tell right from wrong, so don't try to fool yourself. Stick to the right way. It's the best way. "

Guest Cast

Dran Hamilton as Sister Mary Catherine

Carol Ann Williams as Kate

Susan Madigan as Laura

Darwin Joston as Jasper

Bill Death as McSween

and

Joanna Cameron as Andrea Thomas/Isis

Isis "Seeing Eye Horse" September 11, 1976

Noah is a teenager who has been recently struck blind. His passion, riding horses, seems to be elusive to him, but Andrea and Rennie are determined to change that attitude by introducing Noah to a seeing eye horse. Just how resourceful is this horse when Noah finds himself in trouble and his ranch in danger of burning down?

Our look at the first episode of the second and final season of The Secrets of Isis is met with a mix of feelings between John and Richard. One of the two is not impressed at all with what he's seeing, while the other acknowledges that there are issues with the episode, but feels the message is important and relevant today, making it a better episode. The two discuss the revamped theme song, the Viewmaster reels that were developed from this story, the weak introduction of Ronalda Douglas as Rennie Carol, Isis' new hairdo, and the trope of heroic blind people in 70s television. Plus, just how familiar is that ranch house in this episode to John?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "A handicap does not mean the end of a person's means of living. Knowing you have a support base can mean the difference when it comes to doing anything you want in this world."

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Guest Cast

Greg Elliot as Noah Schuster

Kathleen O'Malley as Mrs. Schuster

James Griffith as Dr. Blandford

Shazam! "The Contest" September 11, 1976

Glen has a chance to win a new motorcycle, but the means of winning may prove more than Glen is willing to commit. He learns a hard lesson when his desire to win almost costs the life of a another person.

We start off the final season of Shazam! with a story that does work in today's world. John and Richard discuss how there are those in this instant world who aren't willing to work for something they desire. They also discuss what may be the worst stunts in the series, the odd choice to use a new voice over for Billy's transformation, and the caliber of guest stars this particular episode has. And finally, just what is a pizza-flavored malt?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Just about anything worthwhile has to be worked for, and earned. If it's worth having, it's worth waiting for."

Guest Cast

Mark Montgomery as Glen

Dennis Olivieri as Fred

William Campbell as Officer Ken Taylor

Walker Edmiston as Bob Rose

Isis "Dreams of Flight" December 13, 1975

Chala likes to design airplanes and wants to enter the school competition, but her competition is willing to go to any lengths to make sure she doesn't. To make matters worse, Chala's brother is not supportive of her "Dreams of Flight".

We come to the end of the first season of Isis with a story whose moral doesn't exactly match the plot. Is this a story about accepting that all people are deserving of respect or is this a story about accepting that woman are as capable of doing anything a man can do? John and Richard discuss this as well as the the story arc of Cindy Lee and the conclusion of the first season of Isis.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "People who come from different backgrounds or from different countries deserve the same respect we give everyone else. Putting someone down because they speak a different language or are a different color just doesn't make sense. What does make sense is treating people just the way we want them to treat us."

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Guest Cast

Cynthia Avila as Chala

Paul Hinkley as Mark

Tom Williams as Bill

Fabian Gregory as Raoul

With the conclusion of our reviews of DC Comics' 1977 run of The Mighty Isis comic series, we're proud to present our interview with The Mighty Isis writer Jack C. Harris. Harris talks with us about how he got the assignment to write the book, the abrupt cancellation, and his plans with the series had it moved forward. Plus, we talk Kamandi and Captain Marvel in this all new episode.

Jack C. Harris was born in 1947. He received a B.F.A. from the Philadelphia University of the Arts. He began working in comic books as an assistant editor at DC Comics. He went on to become a comic book writer and editor, working for DC Comics and later Marvel Comics, among others. He taught History of the American Comic Book at Philadelphia College of Art from 1973-1975. In the early 1980s, he was the Art Director for Licensing International Magazine, and in 1985 he became its Managing Editor. From 1985 through 1992 he wrote books, primarily children's books. He briefly returned to DC Comics in the early 1990s to write The Ray series with Joe Quesada. He is currently an instructor at the School of Visual Arts in New York, NY.

Isis "Scuba Duba" December 6, 1975

Steve is a member of Rick's scuba diving club, but he's not one to listen to rules. In doing so, he risks his life and it's up to Isis to save him.

We conclude our reviews of the DC Comics 1970s run of The Mighty Isis, with a look at a story that appears to set things back to normal. Andrea has returned to school with Rick and is teaching once again, but there are new wrinkles that affect the storyline and will not be resolved.

​Plus, we announce the winners of our Isis comic giveaway.

Next, it's a look at the episode, "Scuba Duba". Among the topics discussed are the appearance of manta rays in a lake, the underwater photography of the episode and how the fashions of this episode may have influenced That 70s Show.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "We've all heard the expression, safety first. But sometimes we forget just how important that saying is. Safety first means nothing is more important than that you think before you act. So, don't take a chance - think safety and act safely."

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Guest Cast

Eileen Chesis as Nancy

Brian Byers as Steve

Isis "Girl Driver" November 29, 1975

Freddie is running for president of the Auto Club, but faces strong opposition from Mack. The two agree to a Relay Race to settle who would make a better president, but Mack has plans of his own on how the race should be run and won.

We continue our reviews of the DC Comics 1970s run of The Mighty Isis, looking at the penultimate issue, a story that really takes the series in a new direction, both story and character-wise.

Next, it's a look at the episode, "Girl Driver". Among the topics discussed are the progression of Cindy Lee as a character from the start of the series to now, why a general election wasn't held to determine who would be president of the club, Sid and Marty Kroft versus Filmation live action shows, and the new outfits everyone gets to wear in this episode.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "You have to like and respect yourself. Each of us have many things we can be proud of. Things we can do as well, maybe even better than anyone else. So don't put yourself down. Being popular means caring about other people and yourself."

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Guest Cast

Susan Lawrence as Feddie Charlton

Steve Doubet as Mac Lennard

and

Albert Reed as Doctor Barnes

Isis "Funny Gal" November 22, 1975

Carrie has low self-esteem due to her weight. It causes her to save people the time and trouble of putting her down by being self-deprecating. Her friends convince her to run for Student Body President as they think she would be very good at it as a creative individual. But she thinks the only way she can win is if she can pull off a publicity stunt that will get her noticed. So she steals Rick Mason's boat and gets herself stranded out in the ocean as a storm approaches. It's more than Isis can manage so she calls upon the aid of Captain Marvel.

Before getting into this week's review, John and Richard discuss the sixth issue of the DC Comics 1970s The Mighty Isis comic run. This is the issue John remembers from his youth as it's the only issue he owned. They break down the continuing change in the character of Isis and the very provocative cover on the issue.

Next, it's a look at the episode, "Funny Gal". Among the topics discussed are the question of the moral really matching the story, the appearance of Captain Marvel in this episode and how Jackson Bostwick might have played it, and the appreciation of practical stunts being performed in this episode that harkens back to the first season of Shazam!.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "You have to like and respect yourself. Each of us have many things we can be proud of. Things we can do as well, maybe even better than anyone else. So don't put yourself down. Being popular means caring about other people and yourself."

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Guest Cast

Sandra Vacey as Carrie Anson

Jonas Agee as Greg Aley

and special guest star

John Davey as Captain Marvel

"No Drums, No Trumpets" November 15, 1975

Fred is upset that his science project failed to take first place at the science fair. After nearly getting himself killed in an auto accident, he, Andrea, and science fair winner Dorothy decide to explore a nearby ghost town. But the abandoned town is being used as a hideout for thieves. When Andrea loses the amulet, who will be able to save them?

Before getting into this week's review, John and Richard discuss the fifth issue of the DC Comics 1970s The Mighty Isis comic run. It's the start of the radical change in direction for the series and Richard wonders if the change was what led to the cancellation of the series. Next, it's a look at the episode, "No Drums, No Trumpets". Among the topics discussed are the tropes of ghost towns on 70s television, how much Brian Cutler was convincing as a high school teacher, and what is it that actually activates her powers.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Not everyone can be a winner. Learning from a loss is as important as the win itself. Learning from mistakes helps you grow as a person."

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Guest Cast

Mark Lambert as Fred Weiting

Christopher Norris as Dorothy Bieder

Michael Greene as Jim Danch

and

Albert Reed as Dr. Barnes

Isis "The Show Off" November 8, 1975

Steve is a student who has a serious inferiority complex. He compensates by showing off, but his recklessness gets him into trouble very quickly.

John and Richard have a lot to talk about in this episode. First, there's the excitement over Michael Gray's appearance on AMC's Comic Book Men this fall. Next, they look through the fourth issue of DC Comics' 1976 run of The Mighty Isis. It's the last issue before the series took an interesting turn. Finally, they review, "The Show Off," an episode of Isis that turns out to be two stories in one as the first story is abandoned early in the second act. Plus, there's admiration of Joanna Cameron's acting with Tut, Brian Cutler's fishing hat, and the use of more realistic gorilla costumes if you don't want to use a real gorilla in your story.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Today Steve learned that showing off may bring attention to yourself, but it isn't the way to gain respect. Respect is something that must be earned and the best way to start is to be honest with yourself. Trying to be something you're not, only makes you look foolish and sometimes, it can be very dangerous."

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Guest Cast

Harry Gold as Steve Elwood

Meegan King as Roger Buck

Harlan Ward as The Zookeeper

Isis "How to Find a Friend" November 1, 1975

Tom is a troubled student who tries to make friends, but fails. He comes up with the idea of really impressing a kid with a dirt bike he wants to ride by offering him an antique gun that belongs to his father. The problem is the firing mechanism of the gun is rusted and the weapon could go off in the user's hands.

This is a packed episode even though it isn't action packed. First, Richard relates his attending Big Apple Comic Con in New York with Jackson Bostwick and how the two participated in a panel on the history of the use of the name, Captain Marvel. Next, John and Richard discuss the third issue of the 1976 DC Comics run of Isis. Finally, they discuss the episode itself. Richard likes it more than John, finding the time manipulation elements interesting, while John just finds it weird.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "In today's story, Tom learns that you cannot buy friendship. Real friends are those who like you for yourself, not because you are giving them presents. And Tom learned something else. He learned that a gun is not a toy. A lot of people are sorry, because they were hurt by a gun they thought wasn't loaded. So, play it safe. Don't play with a gun, then you'll never be sorry."

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Guest Cast

Mike Lookinland as Tom Anderson

Buddy Foster as Billie

Tommy Norden as Joe

Russ Martin as Mister Anderson

&

Albert Reed as Dr. Joshua Barnes

Isis "Bigfoot" October 25, 1975

Lee and Cindy claim to have seen Bigfoot while walking through the woods. Is it possible? Rick has a hard time believing it, but when the kids begin to panic and decide to hunt the beast down, Isis steps in and discovers the secret of Bigfoot (long before Steve Austin did).

John is especially excited to tackle this episode in light of his love for Bigfoot on The Six Million Dollar Man, but there are problems with it as John and Richard discuss. Plus, they also talk about how Isis managed to debunk supernatural tropes that were popular in the 70s, wonder how a man with shoes leaves a bare footprint, and discuss the second issue of the DC Comics The Mighty Isis Series, "The Creature from Dimension X" and "Lost and Found".

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "There's a well-known proverb that says, "You can't judge a book by its cover." What that means is that you can't tell what something is like just by the way it looks. That's especially true of people. So whether they be tall or short, thin or fat, remember, the way a person acts, not how he looks, that is what counts."

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Guest Cast

Scott Colomby as Lee Webster

Neil J. Schwartz as Mickey Moses

William Engesser as Bigfoot (Richard)

&

Albert Reed as Dr. Joshua Barnes

Isis "Lucky" October 18, 1975

Randy is getting ready to enter high school and he's looking forward to it, even though it means leaving his dog Lucky behind during the day. When Lucky drowns in the ocean during a beach party, Randy struggles with his loss. And when he questions Isis for not using her powers to revive Lucky, Isis must teach him a lesson on life and death.

In the most heartwarming and heartbreaking episode of either series, John and Richard discuss the dealing with loss in ones life. Plus, they also look at the first issue of DC Comics' The Mighty Isis comic book and rave about Joanna Cameron's acting in light of her performance in this episode. In the end though, is this one of the best, if not the best episode of the series? John and Richard are of mixed thoughts about this.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Losing something we love is never easy, but it's a part of growing up. Growing up doesn't mean just getting bigger and older, it means learning and understanding about life. The cycle of life is all around us. If you look, you'll see it everywhere - flowers, people, animals. But remember, every ending is a beginning full of hope and promise and new life."

​Guest Cast

John Doran as Randy Martin

Brian Nash as Glenn

Robert Forward as Dr. Herb Rogers

Shazam! "The Odd Couple" October 18, 1975

Dan is much too proud to ever ask help from anyone to the point where he risks his and his girlfriend's lives. But will he learn a lesson when he sees the World's Mightiest Mortal asking for help from the Champion of Truth and Justice?

Long before Hercules and Xena - long before Buffy and Angel - long before Steve Austin and Jaime Sommers, there was Captain Marvel and Isis. It's the first of several team-ups featuring the two stars of our iconic Saturday morning TV shows. The question is, is it all worth it? Is the story worthy of such a meeting? John and Richard discuss this as well as begin a series of reviews of the DC Comics Isis series from 1976-77. They start with Isis' first appearance in Shazam! #25.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "There are a lot of things we can do by ourselves, but it's kind of foolish and maybe even dangerous to try to do something when we don't know how."

Guest Cast

Steve Benedict as Dan Haley

Cindy Eilbacher as Susie Walsh

&

Joanna Cameron as Andrea Thomas and Isis

Isis "Rockhound's Roost" October 11, 1975

Kevin is a young student who tries to avoid any of his responsibilities at any cost. But he goes too far when forges his father's name on a permission slip to avoid a cleanup job at home. On the trip, Kevin continues to shirk his responsibilities and decides to run away before getting caught. The problem is he brings along a fellow student named Fabian. Will the two become lost or even worse or can Isis find them in time?

John and Richard discuss this episode in detail and also talk about how the episode is important for today's youth who many do not accept their responsibilities. Plus, what is the deal with the bear? It's pretty bad, even for Isis/Shazam standards.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Being responsible means knowing the right thing to do an doing it."

​Guest Cast

Steven Paul as Kevin McCauley

Thomas Carter as Fabian

Bill DeLand as Mr. McCauley

Shazam! "Speak No Evil" October 11, 1975

Paul and his friends are hanging out on a Sunday afternoon and are bored. So they decide to go to school. Makes sense, right? Paul has his misgivings and he's proven right when his friends accidentally start a fire and his dog is almost killed in it before being saved by Captain Marvel. Billy and Mentor know Paul knows something but he doesn't want to be a "fink". Will he see it's better to admit the truth before it's too late?

Danny Bonaduce plays the misguided, but well intentioned teen who keeps his silence in this episode. John and Richard play the hosts of a podcast discussing the episode. They discuss how many kids learned to take off in flight from Superman and Captain Marvel as well as the "rural" effect on television in the 70s.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

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Moral: "Don't ever be afraid of being called a name. As long as you're sure what you're doing is right, there's no word... no name... that can harm you."

Guest Cast

Melvin F. Allen as Sheriff

Danny Bonaduce as Paul

Eric Chase as Sam

Ty Henderson as Kyle

Hal Lynch as John Jerome

Kerry Maclane as Chuck

Isis "The Rival" October 4, 1975

A new student shows great potential in environmental science, but he's having trouble fitting in with the student body. He discovers that a nearby piece of land that supports a great deal of wildlife in the area is in danger of being cleared for new housing. Will he take the law into his own hands or can Isis resolve the situation before it gets out of hand or worse, deadly?

This episode features themes that a little more mature in terms of concepts concerning the environment. But one's never too young to be concerned with how changing our environment can affect our future. Richard and John do not exactly see eye to eye on the merits of this episode and one is a little more down on it than the other. Take a listen and see if you agree.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "You can't judge a book by its cover."

​

Guest Cast

Mitch Vogal as Wayne Moss

Morgan Jones as Mr. Tilden

Harry Hickox as Mr. Winstead

Wirt Morton as Charlie Michaels

Anson Downes as Phil Hobbes

Shazam! "Goodbye, Packy" October 4, 1975

Kathy has raised Packy since he was a pup. It's an adorable relationship, but there is one hitch - Packy is a wolf. He's getting older now and harder to control. Add to it, the danger he poses to livestock in the area and Kathy's father wants to release him to the wild. But Kathy and Packy run away and quickly find themselves in danger. Can Captain Marvel rescue the two in time?

It's the first episode of the season that John and Richard do not like which is surprising considering how good the stories have been to this point and the fact that this one was written by a team who wrote some good stories in the first season. The two discuss where this one went wrong, the laws concerning the possession of wild creatures, and the motif of eating that runs throughout the entire Shazam! series.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Having a pet carries responsibilities. Some animals are born to be free. To deprive them of that right is selfish, so we all must understand and respect the laws of nature... for our sake, as well as for our animal friends."

Guest Cast

Conlan Carter as Bob Rose

Shannon Terhune as Kathy Rose

Isis "The Sound of Silence" September 27, 1975

Andrea has developed a force field generator called the Circlegard. It's just what a disgruntled student needs to get himself a new car. Can Andrea save Bill from the dangerous turn he's taking by aligning with a local mobster? Will she be in time to also save him from the radiation that is leaking from the Circlegard?

The Secrets of Isis takes a turn toward the more technical with this episode. It's a story dealing with the usual misguided teenagers and the men who manipulate them, but it also has the element of the force field generator and the dangers of radiation. John and Richard discuss how this new element propels the show forward in terms of story telling opportunities. They also wonder how a project like the Circlegard could be developed in a high school with the dangers of radiation involved.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "We all know that two wrongs don't make a right. They only make things worse. If you're ever tempted in that direction, just remember that the right way is always the best way."

Guest Cast

Leigh McCloskey as Bill Cady

James Canning as B.J. Tanker

Philip Bruns as Jack Evans

Wayne Storm as Jocko

and

Albert Reed as Dr. Joshua Barnes

Episode 29 Radames Pera ​From Grasshopper to the Prairie, actor Radames Pera performed in a number of iconic 70s television. He joins us in this special episode giving us a look at how his career all began with a chance encounter with the director of a movie his mother, actress Lisa Pera, was trying out for. From there, he went on to appear in shows such as Medical Center, The Rookies, Night Gallery and many, many more. He talks about his time as Grasshopper on Kung Fu and the adoptive son of Mr. Edwards on Little House on the Prairie. Also, he shares his memories of his appearance on "Fool's Gold" on Shazam!

Radames Perá (born September 14, 1960) is an American former actor best known for his role as "Grasshopper" the student Kwai Chang Caine in the 1972–1975 television series Kung Fu. He is the only living regular cast member from the show.

Radames serves as a member of A Minor Consideration, a non-profit organization formed to give guidance to young performers, past, present, and future.

​

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Shazam! "Double Trouble" September 27, 1975

Billy and Mentor are shocked to learn that Captain Marvel is accused of robbing a gas station. Billy's first instinct is to investigate the matter, but he turns himself in as Captain Marvel in order to prove a point to a young boy about the idea that no one is above the law. But if Captain Marvel is in jail, who is going to prove his innocence?

John and Richard are both in agreement that this is one of the best episodes in the entire series. We learn though it's one that Jackson Bostwick suggested as an idea for the show and it allows Captain Marvel a lot more dialogue and screen time. The two discuss the potential of the episode, the importance of the moral today in a world where many feel they are above the law, and the number of known actors who appeared in this episode.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

​Moral: "Respecting the law is just another way of saying that we respect each other. Laws have been made for the good of everyone, and when someone breaks the law, they're saying "I don't care about you." When you respect the law, you respect yourself."

Guest Cast

Ben Andrews as Pierce Young

William Bassett as Bill Ritzi

Ross Elliot as Sheriff Martin

Jack Garner as Phil Schartoff

Jimmy McNichol as Kelly Martin

Bill Quinn as Larry Frank

Isis "Spots of the Leopard" September 20, 1975

Jenny's father Chuck has returned after a stay in prison for theft and wants to start his life over. A series of thefts of industrial diamonds has a similar MO to Chuck's leading to almost everyone, including Jenny, that Chuck may be guilty. Everyone, except Andrea. Can she prove this to Jenny before it's too late?

John and Richard are impressed with this episode, which they feel has more depth than a usual episode of either series. They go on to discuss how Isis feels like it learned from the mistakes of the first season of Shazam! while Shazam! continues to produce the same kind of stories as before. Finally, they make the comparison of these two shows with Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Today we learned the importance of keeping faith in a friend or someone you love even if it seems they've done something wrong. If they have, it will come out soon enough. If they haven't, they need someone who will believe in them when others won't. That's what being a true friend really means."

Guest Cast

Lou Frizzell as Chuck Nelson

Debralee Scott as Jenny Nelson

Edward Cross as Sgt. Connors

Paul Jenkins as Tom Jenkins

Shazam! "Fool's Gold" September 20, 1975

An old gold prospector is tormented by a group of young boys in the mountains near his claim. But when he's trapped within his mine, will they do the right thing and save him in time?

Actor Michael Gray returns to the podcast to discuss another favorite of his from the Shazam! series. This episode marks the final appearance of Jackson Bostwick in the role of Captain Marvel. In addition to discussing the episode, Michael also talks about the accident that brought about Jackson's departure, the bonus feature he appears in on the Archer sixth season DVD set, and the possibility of his appearing on Dancing with the Stars.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "There are some things even more precious than gold, things like respect and understanding. Respect means more than being polite. It means knowing we've learned from each other. There's a lot we can learn, if we only listen.

Isis "Fool's Dare" September 6, 1975

Cindy Lee takes a dare to spend time in an abandoned junkyard. But she's unaware of the danger that lies within. And how is the junkyard connected to a car theft ring? And why doesn't Andrea simply turn to Isis for help when her car is stolen? These questions and more will be discussed on a new episode of the podcast.

John and Richard wind up being split on how they feel about this episode. It's good, but is it as good as one of them feels? Also, what were the producers thinking when they dressed Cindy Lee in the more child-like clothing? And just how cool is Tut? Take a listen and let us know what you think.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "When someone dares you to do something, it's often either something dangerous or wrong to for some other reason. So the question isn't whether you have the guts to do it or not, the question is do you have the nerve enough not to take the dare? Doing anything that you know is wrong is dumb, because you're the one who pays for it."

​

Guest Cast

Charles Cyphers as Sam Niles

Frank Whiteman as Cy Khan

Josh Albee as Ernie Rothchild

Jeff Tyler as Frank Iverson

Albert Reed as Dr. Joshua Barnes

Shazam! "Debbie" September 13, 1975

Debbie is a girl who finds herself attracted to wrong people, despite her mother's warnings. When she finds herself getting in too deep and her life in danger, can Captain Marvel save her in time? Also, what happened to Captain Marvel?

On our last Shazam! review, we pointed out how the show did nothing new or innovative with the premiere of the second season. It all seemed like business as usual. Be careful what you wish for. As the credits to this second episode begin, one can see there is clearly someone new in terms of who is wearing the big red suit. John Davey takes over the role of Captain Marvel. Hosts John and Richard discuss Davey's first outing and draw their own comparisons, from childhood and today, to the portrayals of the two actors in the series.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "When a parent sets rules and regulations, it really is a form of expression of their love and concern. Sometimes the hardest thing for them to say is "no." But we can be sure that if they say "no", that most of the time there's a good reason for it."

Guest Cast

Cindy Henderson as Debbie

Harry Moses as Tom

Casey Young as Paul

We begin our reviews of The Secrets of Isis with this episode. Cindy Lee reports of the strange lights in the skies over Mystery Mountain. Is it possible that an alien invasion is coming? There are those missing people to account for. And what happens when Cindy Lee herself disappears?

John and Richard discuss the the poor transformation sequence, the lack of stunts, and the odd plot choices in this opening story. Despite all this, they also both agree that this is a much better beginning episode for a series than Shazam! got.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Practical jokes can be taken too far."

Guest Cast

Kelly Thordson as Joel Moss

Hank Brandt as Sheriff Harley

Kenneth Wolger as Art Byron

Michael Maitland as Chick Jeffers

Albert Reed as Dr. Joshua Barnes

Just before we begin our review of The Secrets of Isis, we have the opportunity to sit down with the man who played Rick Mason on the series. Actor Brian Cutler talks with us about his career, his time on the show, how he was the first one cast, and The Actor's Studio he runs today.

Brian Cutler was born in Los Angeles; he has been involved in the entertainment industry for over 60 years. He has had an extensive career in theatre, film, and television, including starring in the hit series The Secrets of ISIS and co-starring in Emergency, The Long Hot Summer, and Young Lawyers. Brian has guest starred on over 100 major television shows and appeared in over 200 national commercials. He has been teaching film, television and commercial acting technique to both beginners and professionals for over 40 years.

Shazam! "On Winning" September 6, 1975

The second season of Shazam! begins and it looks like business as usual. In fact, that's the problem here, for a season premiere of a hot Saturday morning television show, the opening of its second season is somewhat lackluster. Two brothers are vying for their father's attention and the younger of the two feels left out. But he soon learns that his father loves him enough to risk his life for him.

The second season of Shazam! begins and while there are many changes in store for the coming season, this first episode doesn't seem to demonstrate it. John and Richard discuss how what is right with a usual episode of Shazam! is what is wrong with this season opener. Plus, they discuss how the Elders flashbacks that Billy has during the course of the episode are not neccessary and won't be missed on Isis.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Winning isn't the important thing. What is important, is to do the very best you can. And a parent's love is a very special kind of love, its so big, that no matter how many brothers or sisters you have, there's more than enough love for everyone."

Guest Cast

Stephen R. Hudis as Dan

John Lupton as Craig Enright

Eric Shea as Corky

Vinnie is out of jail and looking for revenge on Jackie. Will Jackie take on Vinnie? Why does everyone thing Billy is looking for a fight? Was this episode really necessary?

The first season of Shazam! comes to an end with the second of a two-part story. And the real question is, "Was this episode really necessary?" John and Richard come at the episode from different sides and have very different opinions on it.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "In the end, fighting doesn't prove anything. It makes more sense to work together, and iron out our differences in a constructive, rather than a destructive way."

Guest Cast

Greg Mabrey as Jackie

Jack McCulloch as Vinnie

Tom Ruben as Vinnie's Lieutenant

Carol Anne Seflinger as Mellie

Chad States as Vinnie's Pal

The next in our series of interviews with the people who made Shazam and The Secrets of Isis happens with actor Jack McCulloch. Jack appeared as Vinnie in the two-part first season finale of Shazam! In this interview, he talks about his career, from his start in religious programming to his appearance in the pilot of Happy Days, to his turning down the chance to audition for Luke Skywalker to his appearance in the final season of M*A*S*H, to working with Jackson Bostwick on Shazam!

Jack McCulloch was a character actor who appeared in television and movies throughout the 70s and into the early 80s. He has the distinction of being there for the start of Happy Days, by appearing in the pilot episode and playing a solider in the final season of M*A*S*H. In addition, he appeared in such movies as The California Kid and The Big Red One.

Jack played Vinnie, the leader of the vultures in the two-part season finale of Shazam!'s first season. After appearing in M*A*S*H, Jack walked away from Hollywood in 1982 and opened a business that specializes in wide width shoes - McCulloch's Wide Shoes. His store features tributes to Hollywood and many cone from far and wide, not just to buy shoes, but to see his museum-like store.

Shazam! "The Past is Not Forever" December 7, 1974

Jackie has a past that he feels defines who he is. The problem is, it has some back to haunt him and threaten his future. Can Billy separate his feelings from the facts and determine if Jackie is truly innocent of the crime he's accused of committing?

The first season of Shazam! comes to an end with the first of a two-part story. It's an odd duck in many respects, but John and Richard do find the good in it and remind everyone that odd does not mean bad. The question though is, does it hold up today?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Making one mistake isn't the end of the world. We often get a second chance. Just make sure you don't mess it up, or let others mess it up for you."

Guest Cast

Jimmy Hayes as Mister Samuels

Greg Mabrey as Jackie

Jack McCulloch as Vinnie

Tom Ruben as Vinnie's Lieutentant

Carol Anne Seflinger as Mellie

Chad States as Vinnie's Pal

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Our series of interviews continues as we near the start of our reviews of the first season of The Secrets of Isis. Joining us for this episode is actress, dancer, teacher Joanna Pang Atkins who played Cindy Lee on the first season of the show. Joanna talks about her career leading up to her her on the show, her memories of the episodes and her co-stars, and her career following her departure.

Joanna Pang Atkins has a unique perspective gained from a fascinating lifetime of experience. Since she was a young girl, Joanna has traveled the world over, performing as an actress and dancer on stage, television and film. As a natural progression, she began producing and directing theater for teens and now brings her experience into schools with multi-cultural dance assemblies and residencies.

From her starring role as a teenage idol on CBS' top-rated children's showThe Secrets of ISIS, which recently came out on dvd, Joanna's TV appearances have varied as widely as Saturday Night Live, numerous daytime soap operas, The Lawrence Welk Show, and dozens of TV commercials.

Joanna's stage performances have taken her throughout the country, touring in well-known musicals including West Side Story, South Pacific, Music Man, and The King and I, as well as close to home in the world premiere production of Sayonara at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey. Performing with an Asian touring dance company carried her to the far reaches of Europe, South America, Canada and the U.S.A.

Her professional teaching background is in dance, ranging from ballet to jazz to folk. She teaches all ages from kindergarten through adult. Her special rapport with children has her teaching them on TV and as far afield as California studios, a school in Budapest, and right at home in New Jersey. At many schools, Joanna's multi-cultural dance residencies have become an annual tradition. For over ten years, she has also been a teaching artist for the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC).

In addition to her own performing, Joanna has traveled extensively with her husband, Dick Atkins, a producer and writer of television and feature films, and their son Davy, to movie locations from Los Angeles, Georgia and Vermont in the U.S., to Africa, Budapest, Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Joanna's biography has been published in Who's Who in the World and Who's Who of American Women.

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Alan has self-esteem issues and compensates by making up wild stories about himself to impress his friends. But when he has to prove what he is saying, will he endanger not only himself but his friends as well?

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This episode bares some similarities with the previous episode, "The Delinquent" in that we are dealing with young men with self-esteem issues. The difference he is that Alan is actually quite friendly, but his friendship comes at a cost as he weaves his wild stories. Does it hold today? Why didn't Jackson Bostwick wrestle a lion? And did Richard really beat up Captain Marvel?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Honesty is the best policy."

Guest Cast

Gary Dubin as Mitch

Scott Garrett as Jerry

Steve Gustafson as Alan

Sean Kelly as Tim

Kerri Shuttleton as Debbie

and

Frank Coghlan Jr. as the Guard

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We're entering the age of "Free to Be You and Me" as Shazam! teaches kids to get in touch with themselves before they can be liked by others. In this episode, John and Richard talk about a kid's self-esteem, Richard as "The Great Indoorsman", and sharing soda cans and ice creams.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Before we can like others, we must like ourselves."

Guest Cast

Jackie Earle Haley as Norm

Hilly Hicks as Frank Carlin

Larry Michaels as Doug

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As we discussed in a previous interview, this is actor Michael Gray's favorite episode. So it made sense to ask Michael to join us to review "Little Boy Lost". In this episode we discuss the mixed moral message, writer/director Arthur Nadel, real life trauma of children, and John's reversal of his opinion of this episode.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "If you don't communicate, you'll never solve your problems, and the most important communication for all of us, is with the ones we love. Remember, there are times when everyone needs help, even you."

Guest Cast

John Carter as Sam

Eddie Firestone as Lou

Mark Edward Hall as Howard

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We come to the episode written by Donald F. Glut who we interviewed on a previous podcast. He mentioned how there were elements of Jim he could relate to as a kid. Indeed, being a fan of genre television, movies, and books was not as well accepted back in the 70s as it is today and John and Richard relate to the character in many respects as well. The two get into a further discussion on why higher powers do not use their abilities to help mortal beings and wonder what role Satan may have in this story.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "We all want to be liked, but scary, daredevil stunts aren't the way to go about it. If a person can't like you for who you are, then maybe they aren't worth having as friends."

Guest Cast

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We all have felt, at one time or another, that some of the classes we took in the course of our education were useless. But one never knows what life will throw at them. In the course of this episode, lessons in ancient history and geology pay off for Billy and Cathy, but will Don learn his lesson before it's too late. Plus, Richard relates some personal stories of times he spent with Shazam! stars Jackson Bostwick and Michael Gray. Stay tuned for the story of how guest star Wink Roberts set the desert landscape on fire.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "If you close your mind to learning, sooner or later you're going to have it opened and be surprised at just how much you've shortchanged yourself. So if you ever think about dropping out of school, you're only hurting yourself."

Guest Cast

Wink Roberts as Don

Lisa Eilbacher as Cathy

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Pamelyn Ferdin (born February 4, 1959) is an American former television and film child actor who grew up in Glendale, California, where she attended Herbert Hoover High School, graduating in 1977. She was mainly active both in live action and as a voice actress in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, but has since appeared more sporadically in recent films, concentrating more on animal rights activism than acting.

Ferdin played the Bumsteads' daughter Cookie in the 1968–1969 CBS revival series Blondie. She played Felix Unger's daughter Edna in the 1970s ABC series version of The Odd Couple and Paul Lynde's daughter Sally on the short-lived The Paul Lynde Show.

She appeared on the original Star Trek in 1968 as one of a group of orphaned children led by an alien with sinister motives in the episode "And the Children Shall Lead", and in the 1977 series Space Academy as Laura Gentry.[1]

Ferdin provided the voice of Lucy van Pelt in three Peanuts cartoons: the 1969 TV special It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown, a 1969 feature film A Boy Named Charlie Brown and the 1971 TV special Play It Again, Charlie Brown.

She appeared as Mary Constable in the supernatural thriller Daughter of the Mind and as Abby Clarkson in The Mephisto Waltz (1971). Other films include The Reluctant Astronaut, The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band, The Christine Jorgensen Story, Happy Birthday Wanda June, and The Toolbox Murders. Pamelyn was a frequent guest star on episodic television in the 1960s and 1970s, with appearances on Bewitched, Green Acres, The Andy Griffith Show, Branded, Daniel Boone, Custer, The Monkees, The Flying Nun, Gunsmoke, Shazam!, The High Chaparral, Mannix, The Brady Bunch, Family Affair, Love, American Style, Marcus Welby, M.D., Sigmund and the Sea Monsters, Apple's Way, The Streets of San Francisco, Baretta, CHiPS, and 240-Robert.

Her character "Amy" in The Beguiled (1971) turns against the Clint Eastwood character after he kills her pet turtle.[citation needed]

She voiced Fern Arable, the little girl who works to save the life of Wilbur the pig, in the 1973 film version of Charlotte's Web. [2][3][4][citation needed]

She has been married to Dr. Jerry William Vlasak Jr. since Oct. 12th, 1986.

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"Snitches dig ditches" is a common phrase among the young today, sadly, but it seems to hold true with young Larry Burns. In this episode, John and Richard discuss the responsibility of youth to step forward and report wrongdoing, the question of powerful beings granting insight into potential danger, and the difficult stunts Jackson Bostwick had to perform.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Some day you may see somebody do something wrong. If you don't know what to do about it, just remember that when a problem has you stumped, it's a good idea to talk with a grown-up you can trust. It could save you a lot of trouble in the long run!"

Guest Cast

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We present a new interview in our series with those who were a part of making it happen. And this time around, we have the man himself, Michael Gray, who played Billy Batson on Shazam! Michael talks with us about his career, his time on Shazam! including his favorite episodes, his dealing with typecasting and how it is so different for actors playing hero types today, and his comeback starting with an appearance on Archer.

Good looks and a couple of television roles helped to give actor Michael Gray many years in between and on the covers of Tiger Beat magazine. Born in Chicago, Michael moved to Florida when he was a young boy.

He caught the acting bug in high school, and eventually made his way to Hollywood. In 1972, Michael won the role of Ronnie on the NBC series The Little People, a charming sitcom that starred Brian Keith as a pediatrician with a practice on Oahu, Hawaii. The series was reworked for the second season and retitled The Brian Keith Show, and Michael was let go.

Signed to a management deal with Charles Laufer, pubisher of "Tiger Beat," Michael was able to keep a high profile while rounding up other acting roles. Michael's second series came in 1974, when he was cast in his signature role, as Billy Batson on the Saturday morning series Shazam. The series ran for 3 years but was then cancelled due to increasing production costs.

Some of Michael's other credits include:

Life with Father Entertainment Tonight

Room 222 MTV's - I Love the 70's

The Brady Bunch E Television, Life After Stardom

Marcus Welby M.D. The Rretro Radio Live Show

The Flying Nun VH1 - Superheros, Where Are

Dynasty They Now?

Although Michael Gray had all the tools one would expect to be necessary to build a sturdy career, due to type casting it became harder for him to make

a living at his craft.

The ever youthful Michael Gray is happily married and living in Northern California. He is currently writing a book about his life in Hollywood.

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This episode has a great deal of ties to the seventies as the struggles of the Native American were finally being recognized in American television. No longer were we seeing the Native American as the Indian, the enemy of the cowboy, but rather as a group of displaced people looking to be recognized and respected. But does the episode hold up? John and Richard discuss this and more on a new episode of the podcast.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "The desert and traditions of other people have much to teach us and must be preserved for future generations to see and to know."

Guest Cast

Ruben Moreno as Chief Adam

John Linton as Johnny

Allen G. Norman as Jed

Will Seltzer as Artie

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After the dark themes of the previous two episodes, John and Richard tackle the ideas of equality and realizing your dreams in "The Athlete". Is this a tale that still needs to be told today? What is it about the "utterance of a single word" that lends such credibility to the show? Would this story need to be altered as we've discussed with previous stories in order to work for a modern audience? Are the stunts seen in this episode the best in the entire series?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "Everyone should be given a chance to prove his or her abilities."

Guest Cast

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In the continuation of the review of this two-part story, John and Richard discuss if this episode holds up to the five "Holey Moley" rating the first part of the story received. They look at the legality of what Billy and Gary do in order to entrap Brok. They also comment on the lengthly chase scenes as was apparant in the last episode. In the end, does this hold up and does it remain as dark as the first part offered?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "It's important to be responsible for what we say and what we do."

Guest Cast

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The fourth episode of the first season, "The Lure of the Lost," is examined. There are many aspects of this story worth note. This is the first two-part episode for the series. This is the first darkly themed episode. Mentor's character is much more mysterious in this two-parter, something we won't see again. The main villain isn't going to be seen until the second half. With so much going on here, what did Richard and John think of the episode itself?

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "When you're faced with a problem that you don't feel you can handle, running away isn't the answer. Try talking it over with somebody you can trust."

Guest Cast

Christina Hart as Holly

Derrel Maury as Mark

Christopher S. Nelson as Gary

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John and Richard settle down to discuss the third episode of the series, "Thou Shalt Not Kill". They look at the legal precedent set in the story by the sheriff and Captain Marvel. They are amazed by the horse that can talk without moving its lips. And they puzzle over the double message the Elders give Billy in their weekly meeting.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "It's important for us to remember that laws are made to help us, and that when they stop helping us, they can be changed, legally."

Guest Cast

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John and Richard discuss the second episode of the first season of Shazam!, "The Brothers". Among the topics discussed in this podcast are how the series went from animated to live action, the dual identity of Billy Batson, Lance Kerwin's post-acting career, and the appeal of stories dealing with blind people in 60s-80s television.

It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "People with problems or handicaps can get along just as well as any of us."

Guest Cast

Lance Kerwin as Chad Martin Steve Tanner as Danny Martin

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The first in our series of interviews with those who worked on Shazam! and/or Isisstarts with author Donald F. Glut. Donald is the writer of the first season Shazam! episode, "The Brain". Donald talks with us about how the episode came about, why he never wrote for Shazam! after his highly rated episode aired, and about his near opportunity to work with Jackson Bostwick on another iconic character.

DONALD F. GLUT has been professionally active in both the entertainment and publishing industries since 1966.

Born in Pecos, Texas, Don grew up in Chicago, IL. At age nine, already bitten by the film-making "bug," he made Diplodocus at Large, the first of 41 amateur movies featuring dinosaurs, human monsters (Frankenstein's Monster, Teenage Werewolf, etc.) and superheroes (Spider-Man, Captain Marvel, etc.) Some of these films made during the late 1960s (e.g., Spy Smasher vs. the Purple Monster) were eventually shown in theatres and on TV.

Moving to Los Angeles to attend the University of Southern California, Don professionally entered show business as an "extra" (a POW) in the movie Von Ryan's Express (1965), the first of several such "roles." He began his professional writing career in 1966, writing articles for and finally editing the magazine Modern Monsters. In 1967, after graduating from the University of Southern California with a BA degree (for Cinema) in Letters, Arts and Sciences, Don worked as a musician, singer and songwriter in The Penny Arkade, a rock band produced by "Monkee" Michael Nesmith. Shortly after that he briefly furthered his acting career, having a speaking role in a national television commercial starring Dick Clark.

However, most of Don's professional life has been as a freelance writer. To date he has authored numerous motion picture and television scripts (Shazam!, Land of the Lost, and animation, e.g., Spider-Man & His Amazing Friends, Transformers, G.I.Joe, Duck Tales, Jonny Quest, X-Men, others), comic-book scripts (Captain America, Tarzan, etc., including creating for Gold Key Dagar the Invincible, The Occult Files of Dr. Spektor and Tragg and the Sky Gods), more than 35 novels and nonfiction books, also numerous short stories, articles, songs, album-liner notes, etc. The Dinosaur Dictionary(1972) and Dinosaurs: The Encyclopedia (1997), two of Don's many non-fiction books about dinosaurs, both were listed by the American Library Association among the best reference books of their years of publication. With The Dinosaur Dictionary Don created the much-imitated book format based upon an alphabetical listing of dinosaur names. Perhaps Don is best known for his novelization of the movie The Empire Strikes Back (1980), the nation's No. 1 bestseller for almost two months, which to date (still in print) has sold over 3.5 million copies. In 1982 he created characters and back story for Mattel's "Masters of the Universe" toy line. Among his more recent books is Chomper, an entry in the popular "Dinotopia" series.

Don produced, wrote and directed various videos (including the documentaries Dinosaur Movies and Hollywood Goes Ape! and the music-video compilation Dinosaur Tracks®), theatre and movie projects. He has worked as a consultant on numerous other video, film and TV projects, and was "Dinosaur Consultant" on Roger Corman's movie Carnosaur (1993).

In 1990, Don and Pete Von Sholly founded Fossil Records, which has already produced a half dozen albums. These include Dinosaur Tracks®, More Dinosaur Tracks® and Dinosaur Tracks® Again, featuring paleontology-related rock music written mostly by Don (Dinodon Music/BMI), performed by Don and Pete (as the Iridium Band).

More recently, Don became president of Frontline Entertainment (www.frontlinefilms.com), for which he wrote, directed and co-produced the comedy/fantasy motion picture Dinosaur Valley Girls™, followed by a series of campy/sexy/horror movies, which have already achieved "cult movie" status, and Before La Brea, a documentary commissioned by the George C. Page Museum of La Brea Discoveries in Los Angeles. In 2000, he was commissioned by Irena Belle Productions to direct the movie The Vampire Hunters Club, featuring an all-star genre cast.

In addition to his entertainment and publishing fields work, Glut is known internationally for his work with dinosaurs (see http://www.donglutsdinosaurs.com to see Don's "prehistoria" collection), a subject he has been seriously interested in since the age of seven. He has lectured on dinosaurs at museums, universities and other institutions in the USA and Europe, and often appears on TV and radio talk shows, and in videos, discussing dinosaurs, monster movies and other topics. Regularly he speaks at seminars for actors. In 1999 and 2000, respectively, he became a volunteer at both The Field Museum (Chicago) and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

Among Don's many interests are paleontology (obviously), movies (especially the older horror films, Westerns, serials and film noir), science fiction and fantasy, music (playing and listening), comic books, motorcycles, reptiles, stage magic, electric trains, the Three Stooges, Jackie Gleason, old-fashioned amusement parks and side shows, partying and "holy relics."

Learn even more about Donald by visting his website - http://www.donaldfglut.com/

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A young man must figure out what to do when his friends insist on stealing cars and going on joy rides.

John and Richard sit down to discuss this first episode in the series. They talk about the production values, the stunts, and the first use of the phrase, "Holy Moley!" Plus, is Shazam! just a modern day Shakespeare story? It's all here and we want to hear from you on what you think of the episode. Write us as ShazamIsisPodcast@gmail.com.

Moral: "It takes more courage to do what is right then follow along with the crowd.

Guest Cast

Lee Joe Casey...Rich

Ty Henderson...Kyle

Kerry MacLane...Chuck Wagner

Barry Miller...Mike

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We start off the podcast by sharing a Roundtable episode of The Chronic Rift. In it, Shazam star Jackson Bostwick talks about his time on the classic Saturday morning series. He gets into how he was hired, how he did many of his own stunts, and how he ultimately left the series as the second season was starting.

Saturday morning's Shazam! brought the world Jackson Bostwick as Captain Marvel. Bostwick's era as the Big Red Cheese began in the early 1970's and is only the second guy in history to play Captain Marvel. Tom Tyler was the first in 1941 in the old Republic Studios serial "The Adventures of Captain Marvel." Bostwick became very good friends with C.C. Beck, the artist of Captain Marvel from the Golden Age of comics. He was the original Captain Marvel on the live-action TV show, and set the standard for the highly-rated children's series, which ran for several years.

The actor says his audition was a very low-pressure situation. "I had just signed with a commercial agent, and a week later he sent me out on an interview. I thought it was for a Captain Marvel cereal, like Captain Crunch, because he was a commercial agent. So, I went out there in a white T-shirt, jeans and cowboy boots, thinking it was a general cattle call at Filmation Studios. They had done the Lone Ranger cartoon, which was their big claim to fame before Shazam! I walked in and met the producer, Bob Chenault. Bob told me later that he knew when he heard my voice and saw my smile that I would be their Captain Marvel. I didn't realize that they had been looking for more than four months! They had narrowed it down to four people, and had gone from actors who were athletes to athletes who were actors. Now they were back to actors who were athletes."

Bostwick approached the role of Captain Marvel in much the same way that his friend, legendary actor Clayton Moore, approached the Lone Ranger. "Being a fan of the Lone Ranger, I wanted to give the kids something to lookup to like Clay gave me to look up to. And I hope I did that. I know how critical kids are, and I wanted to make sure I was presenting myself right, and not putting my hands on my hips and preaching to them.

Bostwick has always been inclined toward the arts, ever since childhood in Alabama, where he was also a comic book reader. His favorite? Captain Marvel, of course! "Captain Marvel was always a hero of mine when I was growing up with comics. My mother, God love her, threw out all my comics when I went to college, thinking she was doing me a favor. The would be worth a fortune today.

The actor still reports that he's still recognized today for his role in Shazam! "Most of the time it's, "I know I've seen him--no, you ask him!" And once they find out, then everybody knows! It loosens them up. Then it's "I knew you looked familiar!" My dad told me that he knew I was doing all right when they went to the country club and it was no longer "Dr. & Mrs. Bostwick," but "Captain Marvel's mom and dad..."