Marilyn Denis Does a Podcast

The legendary Sylvester Stallone chats about starring in his first ever TV series “Tulsa King”; how the film & TV industry has drastically changed over the years; and find out how our paths have crossed over the years and come full circle to this interview!    

Two conversations – one message – a good worth ethic sets the stage for success! Canadian businessman and Dragon’s Den star, Wes Hall, chats about his memoir “No Bootstraps When You’re Barefoot: My rise from a Jamaican plantation shack to the boardrooms of Bay Street;” then Canadian entrepreneur and personal finance expert, Kelley Keehn, gets real about the impacts of new work trends like ‘quiet quitting,’ and how to carve out a career that brings you joy and money.   

No more slamming your ex! Breakup expert, Amy Chan, shares great advice based on her book “Breakup Bootcamp: The Science of Rewiring Your Heart,” including how to break up with kindness and compassion, and how to get over a breakup in the healthiest way possible.  

Country superstar, Thomas Rhett, chats about how he hopes his 6th studio album, “Where We Started,” will get people excited about going to live concerts again, being a dad to four girls who love to sing his songs on the way to school, and his dream collaboration with Katy Perry.    

Longtime L'Oréal Paris ambassador and iconic actress, Andie MacDowell, chats about representing women for over 35 years, portraying the journey of mental instability in her game-changing role in Maid, what it was like starring opposite her real-life daughter, and how she maintains her head-turning silver locks!

I catch up with Canadian music icon, Bryan Adams, while he’s in London, England, promoting his 15th studio album “So Happy It Hurts.” We chat about what touring looks like these days, shooting the music video for his title track with his 94-years-young mum, and being a Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee.   

So what’s life really like for one of the hardest working moms in showbiz? Catherine Reitman, the star and creator of the International Emmy Award nominated sitcom, Workin’ Moms,dishes on everything from home-schooling and life in lockdown, filming in the middle of a pandemic, and what it takes to come up with some of the most relatable and funny storylines on TV.    

On the heels of his third studio album, “Bloor Street,” Kiefer Sutherland shares why he wrote a nostalgic love letter to his hometown of Toronto; how he had to strike a deal with his mother at age four to get his first guitar; and what it was like portraying President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the upcoming TV series “The First Lady.”  

On her visit to Calgary, Alberta, to see a science exhibit that she narrated, I chat with actor, model, writer and filmmaker, Isabella Rossellini, about pursuing her passion for animal behaviour and conservation later in life, moving from NYC to the country to run a 28-acre organic farm, and the joys of being a nonna!  

Just back in NYC from his Las Vegas residency, I chat with Sting about his 15th solo album, The Bridge – a pandemic project that inspired some amazing new music - and how he celebrated his 70th performing on the slopes of the Acropolis in Greece, earlier this year.   

Imagine having a poster of your music hero on your wall at 14, and then becoming one of their best friends by the time you’re 19! On the heels of Duran Duran’s 40th anniversary, founder and keyboardist, Nick Rhodes, dishes on the legendary band’s 15th studio album, Future Past, the best advice he got from famous friends like David Bowie and Andy Warhol, and the secret to having a successful band four decades later.

On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and Orange Shirt Day, Anthony Johnson (Navajo/Diné) and Dr. James Makokis (Cree) share their personal journeys with residential schools in Canada, and how we can all step up and come together to help our nation heal.

Who needs to online date when you’ve got a cup of tea and a Bible on standby? Jann Arden dishes on Season 3 of her original hit comedy “Jann,” and how much fun it is playing her TV self! From calling up her famous friends to guest star, to what it was like getting inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame by her music hero, Anne Murray, get ready for some funny stories only Jann Arden can tell!    

Once you hear this podcast, you’ll understand why thousands of people around the world are loyal members of the Trinny Tribe! When my fashion stylist, Alexis Honce, told me Trinny Woodall, the Founder & CEO of the beauty company, Trinny London, is her industry idol, I had to unite them. From building a successful brand to finding your true sense of style at any age – this is one conversation you don’t want to miss! 

It just so happens that Barenaked Ladies frontman, Ed Robertson, is my neighbour. So, when I asked him if we could chat about his new album, Detour De Force, he suggested we chat in my backyard. So, don’t be surprised if you hear a leaf blower or two! From his new music, to the band’s amazing success & longevity, this is a great chat you don’t want to miss!    

“I Am Invincible” - not just the title of her amazing life story but also the mantra that got her to where she is today. It’s no surprise that Norma Kamali is the muse of my dear friend & fashion stylist, Peter Papapetrou. It’s a lovefest when they meet for the very first time in this podcast – enjoy! 

She talks about her role as Robin in The Conners, her lifelong obsession with The Wizard of Oz, and she gets real candid about inclusivity in entertainment. I talk with trailblazing transgender actress, teacher, singer, author and activist, Alexandra Billings. 

It’s the 35th anniversary of Pretty In Pink and Andrew McCarthy almost didn’t get the gig.  Not only that, he hated the Brat Pack label. He’s had many offers to write about it and he rejected all of them … until now! He pulls back the curtain on his life and career in his new book Brat: An ‘80s Story.  

Can you imagine belonging to one of the biggest girl groups of all time and shielding something so important from your group because you believe the show must go on? We talk to Grammy winner & Destiny’s child singer, Michelle Williams, about her first book Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved My Life – and Can Save Yours.

Is it necessary to talk about past relationships with your current partner? Singer songwriter, Julia Michaels, has a very strong opinion about that! Falling in love and while writing “ If The World Was Ending” - that happened! You’ll hear her excitement about releasing her first solo album - “Not In Chronological Order.”

On finding her Skinnygirl successor through her new show “The Big Shot with Bethenny,” and what it takes to be successful in business. 

So great to catch up with Deborah Cox – Canada’s Queen of R&B! We had such a fun chat about her famous friends, family, and her future.  

Did Elizabeth & Margaret get along, or not? He’s the ultimate dinner guest! Princess Diana’s biographer, Andrew Morton, on his new book Elizabeth and Margaret: The Intimate World of The Windsor Sisters– what surprised him the most about their relationship, becoming a consultant for the award-winning series The Crown, and what the future holds for the Royal Family. 

Golden Globe and BAFTA winner, Jon Batiste, serenades Marilyn and invites her to do the Lindy Hop with him next time he’s in town! Jon talks about getting vaccinated, being bandleader on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, missing live performances, how he feels about Oscar night and his nod for Pixar’s Soul, and his new album We Are.    

Good friends like to talk about real estate … and that’s exactly what we’re gonna do! Canadian designer & contractor, Rasmin Khachi, shares his expert advice on building, renovating and moving. Not necessarily in that order! 2020 has been a wild ride in the housing business - let’s get the perspective from someone who deals with it every day

Television personality & best-selling author, Ross Mathews, opens up about his weight loss journey. Having lost 50 pounds in the middle of a pandemic, Ross reveals what motivated him, how he lost the weight, and what he’s doing to maintain his well-being, which as he puts it, is a constant “work in progress.”

The Shark Tank star and business mogul shares his advice for how businesses can survive heading into the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, and reveals why he’s never “off” work – even at the dinner table. Plus, he offers up his top tips for acing your next virtual job interview.

Nicknamed “Comforter In Chief” by her peers and fans, country legend, Dolly Parton, shares how she’s  been busy this pandemic. In her signature story-teller style, Dolly takes us behind-the-scenes of how the recording of her new album “Holly Dolly Christmas” came together during lockdown with duets featuring her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, Michael Buble, Willie Nelson and Jimmy Fallon. On the heels of her 75th birthday, Dolly is busier than ever with a new Christmas movie, and a new book about her life and songs in towe! Plus, find out which one of Dolly’s iconic songs sent fellow country superstar, Reba McEntire, into a tailspin!

He has one of the most recognizable voices in music, but Josh Groban almost didn’t choose a singing career. Marilyn chats with Josh about the importance of saying “yes”, the thrill of performing and how to fill the void in lieu of performing live.

Marilyn sits down with the legendary guitarist about his life-long love of music, the downside of fame at a young age and how it took his childhood friend David Bowie to get back in touch with his music.

Author, motivational speaker and lifestyle blogger Rachel Hollis talks to Marilyn about her latest book, her divorce from her husband of 16 years, and how to get through crisis and grief in your own life. 

In conversation with comedian, actor & television host Howie Mandel.  Howie chats about his new documentary Howie Mandel: But, Enough About Me, and takes us on a trip down memory lane sharing career highlights, his interest in social media, and the great success of America′s Got Talent. Howie also talks openly about his anxiety coping mechanisms, his partnership with Bell Let’s Talk, and how proud he is to be Canadian!

Former monk turned purpose coach, leading podcaster, and best-selling author of “Think Like A Monk”, Jay Shetty, reveals how he abandoned his aspirations of becoming a wealthy business tycoon to train as a monk in India. Jay shares the life lessons that he learned from how to reduce stress, to improving our relationships, and finding our own purpose in life. Find out how a former monk proved all of his naysayers wrong and became a social media hit with over 7 million Instagram followers, over a billion views for his YouTube videos, the host of the #1 Health and Wellness podcast in the world, and an instant international #1 best-selling author.

In conversation with the multiple Grammy award winning Queen of country, Reba McEntire. Following the recent re-release of her highly acclaimed album, “Rumor Has It,” Reba talks about recording new versions of her iconic songs, plus, how the pandemic inspired her to create a new music video for her classic song “What If.” Reba also shares what life was like during the first few months of the pandemic, including the heartbreaking loss of her mother and mentor, Jacqueline, and the precious gift of time with her sister and family.

You know him as the front man of the legendary Canadian rock band, “Glass Tiger,” but did you know that Alan Frew is also a  registered nurse? The multi-platinum selling singer-songwriter, public speaker, and best-selling author, once dreamed of becoming a doctor. Alan shares his fascinating journey of how he went from working shifts at the local hospital, to becoming the front man of one of the world’s most successful bands. Alan also shares how he was in the midst of planning a tour when Covid-19 slammed on the breaks. But as a stroke survivor, Alan offers a profound perspective on life and this pandemic, and how love and music have the universal power to heal. 

Founder and publisher of one Canada’s leading design magazines, House & Home, Lynda reveals some of her latest inspirations and current home trends. Discover how the pandemic’s changing the way we live in our homes to how pastel paints are making a comeback, right down to the exciting details on her latest personal project, building a dream lake house. Marilyn and Lynda’s conversation may just inspire you to start up an exciting home project of your very own.

Chef Daniel speaks to Marilyn from his current home base in NYC to reveal how he’s navigating his international food empire through unchartered waters, what his thoughts are on the current state of the restaurant industry and how he’s finding ways to give back to those who are still in need of some extra help during these challenging times.

Marilyn chats with her good friend, designer Tommy Smythe, about sustainable living and design.  Tommy shares how & why he has made recent changes, in his own life, towards becoming a better global steward, and how we can do the same.   

Famous for his Emmy Award winning role as mobster Ralph Cifaretto on HBO’s “The Sopranos”, actor, author and mental health activist Joe Pantoliano takes us behind the scenes of shooting his new film “From The Vine”, the story of a downtrodden CEO who travels back to his Nonno’s vineyard in Italy. The prolific character actor dishes on his roles in iconic films like “Risky Business”, “Midnight Run”, “The Matrix” and “Momento”,and opens up about his family and his own journey from mental illness, to wellness, to running his own charity “No Kidding, Me Too!”. Joe reveals what he thinks a post-Covid-19 theatre and film world will look like and laments the loss of value of his American passport during the pandemic.

One of North America’s most recognizable business leaders and media personalities, Robert Herjavec, shares his advice for what small business owners can do to help get through these unstable times. Robert has invaluable insight from his time as a business mentor and investor on ABC’s Emmy Award-Winning show, “Shark Tank,” and also speaks from personal experience. As the founder of Herjavec Group – a cybersecurity company that became one of North America’s fastest-growing technology companies - this business mogul’s advice can help you navigate a new normal as more people head back to work.

Two-time Grammy Award-winning reggae & dancehall superstar, Shaggy, celebrates the 20th anniversary of his diamond-selling album, “Hot Shot,” that brought us hits like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Angel.” To commemorate the milestone, Shaggy dropped “Hot Shot 2020” – a reissued album with revamped vocals and production on old and new fan-favourites, and never-before-heard tracks. Shaggy reflects on some of his remarkable achievements over his impressive career, including how he managed to bring dancehall into the mainstream of the music business. Shaggy continues to shake up the status quo, with his massive global hit on Tik Tok, embracing the platform that has changed the face of the music promotion industry. Mr. Boombastic’s talent and savvy are what make him a timeless superstar. 

Trusted film critic and host of CTV News Channel’s talk show, “Pop Life” and web series, “In Isolation With” reveals how the entertainment industry is moving forward during these uncertain times. Find out which blockbuster films have been rescheduled or delayed, how drive-ins are making a unique comeback and finally what you need to know for your family to “Quaranstream” in style! His insider tips will keep you connected for all of your entertainment needs.

Canadian YouTube star, transgender activist, model and author, Gigi Gorgeous shares her journey from male-presenting teenager doing makeup tutorials in her bedroom, to superstar transgender influencer! From hosting her town’s first ever Pride Black Lives Matter Walk, to how she has grown in her marriage to Nats Getty over the past year, Gigi shares the importance of celebrating uniqueness, and recognizing being different as a gift. 

One of America’s leading celebrity beauty and fashion experts, Denise Caldwell, opens up about how anti-Black racism has touched both her personal and professional life. From sharing family stories of what it was like growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, to working her way up in the competitive fashion industry with the determination of her "blood, sweat and heels," Denise shares her views on how love, faith, and understanding can help us build bridges to encourage and create meaningful and lasting change.

“Canada’s most trusted contractor” and star of several award-winning reno-reality shows, Mike Holmes shares how he’s getting back to business during the pandemic! He lets us in on his personal projects and predictions on where the industry is headed. As a father of three, including Mike Jr. and Sherry, who both followed his footsteps into the trades & TV world, Mike shares his case for why we need to de-stigmatize and encourage the younger generation to enter a career in the skilled trades – an industry that is virtually recession-resistant with high job security.   

In this episode, Marilyn continues to hold important conversations on race in Canada with Indigenous Executive Chef, Bill Alexander. Bill shares the special connection he has to Indigenous cooking learned through his mother, and how he’s translating those traditions into his life as a professional chef. Marilyn and Bill also talk about how sharing these culinary traditions can help people see different viewpoints and perspectives and enrich Canadian culture.

Marilyn has an open and candid discussion with Black media personalities and on-air colleagues Chef Roger Mooking, Hairstylist Janet Jackson, and Chef Bianca Osbourne about the impact that racism has had on their lives personally and professionally. Roger, Janet and Bianca also share their opinions on what needs to happen moving forward, to bring about meaningful and lasting change to end systemic racism.  

CTV News’ Science and Technology specialist and scientist, Dan Riskin delivers the most up to date facts surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. From revealing the benefits of wearing face coverings to where you’re most likely to come into contact with the virus. And how technology's being used to slow down the global spread through contact tracing right down to the power of a dog's nose for detection. This half hour will provide you with a scientific silver lining to this on-going crisis.

With over 300 film and TV credits to his name, Danny Trejo shares his life journey from ex-con, to addiction counselor, to Hollywood leading man, as told in his debut cookbook “Trejo’s Tacos,” named after one of his six Los Angeles restaurants – and in the upcoming documentary about his life “Inmate #1 – The Rise of Danny Trejo.” Full of gratitude, Danny shares how he is using his passion for food to give back to the community that has given him so much.

Comedian, actor, writer, producer, and best selling author, Jim Gaffigan shares his world famous observations on what life is like being quarantined with his wife and five “loud & expensive” kids (as he puts it) at their home in manhattan, New York. One of the most popular comedians in the world, Jim reveals how he’s continuing to share his relatable, family-focussed comedy through his numerous social media outlets.  Even though most of us continue to self-isolate, humour will always find a way to open the door to laughter, connecting us all.

Award winning, Canadian stand-up comedian, Debra DiGiovanni reveals the lighter side of lockdown.

Discover how she’s coping without a live audience and living life off the road, performing from her apartment. Debra also shares who inspired her to pursue and continue a career in comedy, along with what it’s really like for a female comedian living in a male dominated industry. Debra’s light-hearted observations and down to earth stories will remind you that brighter days are ahead!

Pattie Lovett-Reid, shares her valuable advice on what you need to flourish in this pandemic-hammered job market. From how to prepare for a virtual interview, to unique and effective ways recent graduates can kick-start their new careers, Pattie provides a road map on how to reflect, push forward, and see this time as an opportunity for growth and positive change. Lessons learned from previous recessions show “the time to chase your dream job is now!”  

From achieving work-life balance in our over-scheduled remote home-offices, to being able to spot the red flags of potential online scams, tech expert Amber MacArthur, and BuzzFeed Media Editor, Craig Silverman, reveal the essential tools we need to navigate through these unprecedented times of living our lives online.  Their insider tips are a valuable guide to staying connected and protected.

Marilyn chats with family therapist, and regular contributor to The Marilyn Denis Show, Joe Rich. 

Joe gives practical advice on how you and your family can continue to adjust to the new normal. From how to speak to your children about summer camp being cancelled, to dealing with the anxiety of navigating the re-opening of society, Joe offers a road map on how we can feel safe and optimistic for the future. We are all in this together.

Husband and wife duo, and co-hosts of the HGTV reno series, “The Island of Bryan,” open up about what daily life is really like self-isolating with their four children on South Andros Island in the Bahamas.  Find out how Bryan and Sarah are managing to keep their resort and family together during this global crisis, and their secrets to successfully living and working together, as they venture down roads less travelled during these challenging times.

Singer-songwriter, and founding member of the band “Great Big Sea,” Sean McCann, and his wife Andrea Aragon, share the extraordinary stories of music, addiction and recovery that culminate in their deeply emotional memoir “One Good Reason". A rallying cry for fighting to hold on to your loved ones, championing your own recovery, and the healing power of music, you will be inspired and moved by Sean and Andrea’s messages of empowerment and self-love.

One of Canada’s top journalists - CTV Chief News Anchor & Senior Editor, Lisa LaFlamme - takes a break from the desk to chat with Marilyn. Lisa opens up about the early days of her career, covering stories in war zones, and how she’s balancing her professional and personal life during the pandemic, including how she’s coping with the emotional aftermath of delivering the news day in and day out.

From breaking curfew, to attending legendary rock concerts with his Mom, Marilyn, her son Adam Wylde (along with baby Everly) dial in for a Mother’s Day virtual visit to talk about the joys of being a new Father, the five most valuable life lessons he learned from his Mom and  how he’s handling the absence of his favourite sport, hockey during these challenging times.

From Thanksgiving at Whoopi Goldberg’s house, to living and performing with Liza Minnelli, Marilyn’s grade 7 homeroom pal, Jim Caruso, dishes on what it was like knowing that he wanted to be a Broadway star from the time he was 5-years-old. The New York night life legend shares how he made his big Broadway debut, and how he has managed to keep his star-studded, variety show, “Cast Party,” going during lockdown.      

From vegan home hair colour tips, to homemade luscious lemon pedicures, style guru, Gretta Monahan, shares her quarantine pampering secrets. Plus, Gretta opens up about her personal journey with breast cancer, the cutting edge treatments that saved her hair, and her empowering messages to get checked regularly.      

With four kids under the age of 13, and a schedule that is normally jammed packed with speaking and book tours, the New York Times best-selling author of “Girl Wash Your Face”, chats with Marilyn about how to uplift our spirits during this difficult time. From watching tearjerker movies and allowing yourself to have a good cry, to the daily practice of finding gratitude, Rachel reveals how she is taking this time to slow down, show up, and fight for joy during this crisis.    

Celebrity fitness trainer and lifestyle expert, Jim Karas, connects with Marilyn from his home in Chicago, Illinois. In a candid and humorous chat, Jim shares the keys to thriving during lockdown – from ditching pants, to getting rid of the energy suckers in our lives, and the simple workout moves you can do while binge-watching your favourite TV show – Jim’s message is clear – let’s use this time to get healthier and stronger, together!    

Parenting expert and author, Alyson Schafer, gives her advice on surviving the daily grind during this era of social distancing. Discover how to best utilize your own time when it comes to the great balancing act between childcare and working from home – and why sometimes, lowering your own expectations of yourself can truly help. 

TV Personality and Author, Daphne Oz, dishes on how self-isolating in a multi-generational home of 11, and raising four kids under the age of 7, have led her to embrace the silver linings - primarily how she’s been able to turn FOMO into JOMO! From practical tips on how to think positively, to how to “rage on the page,” and make comforting meals using pantry staples, Daphne shares her sanity-saving routines.   

Veteran, Canadian, radio personality, Roger Ashby, reveals what is was like meeting music legends like Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and Michael Jackson, for the very first time. As former colleagues of CHUM 104.5’s morning show, Roger and Marilyn reminisce on when they first met and started working together, to Roger’s latest venture The Roger Ashby Oldies Show. 

Psychic medium, John Edward, chats with Marilyn from his home in Long Island, New York. John does a reading for a listener who is grieving the loss of a loved one, and shares his thoughts on how this pandemic is a global call to action, and how now is the time to look to humanity and community above all else.     

Real estate expert & TV personality, Scott McGillivray, and CTV News’ chief financial commentator, Pattie Lovett-Reid, share savvy advice on how to combat financial anxieties during the COVID-19 pandemic - from buying and selling your home, to finding money, and managing debt repayments – staying hopeful and optimistic is key.

Canadian interior designer, Tommy Smythe, reflects on how this pandemic has forced him to put his brand new design firm on hold, and how this is the time to take notice of how we live inside our homes, collect inspiration from online tastemakers and designers, and start planning on creating a dwelling that truly represents our human experience and personality.      

Marilyn chats with fashion stylist and regular contributor to The Marilyn Denis Show, Alexis Honce, about being a new mom during this time of self-isolation. Plus, Alexis shares step-by-step tips on how to reorganize your closet, get speedy delivery with your online shopping purchases, and what’s in and what’s out for spring!  

Marilyn checks in with Emmy-winning TV personality, celebrity stylist, and author, Carson Kressley, from his farm in Pennsylvania. With his signature charm and wit, Carson reveals his isolation obsessions, and which song he’d love to lip sync if he was a contestant on Ru Paul’s Drag Race!     

From the ducks and swans that swoop into her backyard pond, to the ultimate joy of reading daily to her granddaughter online, Emmy & Tony award-winning actress and comedian, Andrea Martin, shares her gratitude list, and reminds us all that it is far better to approach life from a place of love, than fear.  

From her home in London, England, beloved television personality, interior designer, entrepreneur and author, Debbie Travis, opens up to Marilyn in a very candid, humorous, and personal way about how she’s coping with social-isolation; how her Tuscan retreat is doing; the upsides to having all this time on her hands; and how she’s compensating for all the pubs being closed!   

While the world is struggling to come to grips with the “new normal,” stylist to the stars, Joe Zee, reveals to Marilyn that he will become a first-time-dad, providing him with a glimmer of love and hope. Joe also gives Marilyn the behind-the-scenes scoop of working with some of the world’s biggest celebrities, and his journey to becoming an international fashion icon. 

Marilyn chats with family therapist, and regular contributor to The Marilyn Denis Show,  Joe Rich. Joe gives very practical advice on how not to get overwhelmed by the news, how best to support elderly parents, how to say and ask for exactly what you need at this time without any embarrassment and shame, and how we can push the reset button on our lives, when some normality returns!