In this vibrant, deeply personal, and laugh-out-loud episode of ON THE KNOWS, host Randall Kenneth Jones welcomes back entertainment insider and author Rob Shuter to discuss his debut novel “It Started with a Whisper”—a story rooted in truth, friendship, ambition, and the complicated world of celebrity gossip.

From the moment Jones attempts to imitate Shuter’s signature “Hello, hello, hello” kicks things off, the conversation blends humor with powerful insight. Shuter opens up about how his childhood quirks shaped his literary voice, how decades in celebrity PR informed his storytelling, and why gossip—often misunderstood—is actually the birthplace of truth.

Jones and Shuter dive into the heart of the novel: a fictional morning show where the real drama isn’t about celebrities, but the secrets of the hosts themselves. Along the way, they unpack the blurred lines between media, gossip, and news in today’s fast-moving digital world—and why curiosity might be one of our greatest strengths.

Jones adds a personal shoutout to Shuter’s first non-fiction book, “The Four-Word Answer,” as a life-changing addition to his book collection. How many people are equipped to accurately answer the question: Who are you in four words?

The episode also delivers emotional depth, with moving tributes and reflections on iconic figures. Shuter shares heartfelt stories about Joan Rivers, whose generosity changed his career, with Jones praising former ON THE KNOWS guest Melissa Rivers for consistently honoring her mother’s legacy.

Shuter also reflects on the kindness of Kate Spade, whose grace left a lasting impact, and the pair celebrate the enduring creative partnership between Shuter’s husband Bruce Sussman and Barry Manilow.

In a particularly meaningful moment, Shuter highlights Wendy Williams, offering a thoughtful and positive perspective on her influence and the awareness she brought to issues of identity and belonging.

Throughout the episode, Jones champions Shuter’s ability to infuse storytelling with empathy, inclusivity, and emotional intelligence—whether it’s through diverse characters, honest observations about race and identity, or nuanced portrayals of relationships.

This episode is more than a book interview—it’s a masterclass in storytelling, self-awareness, and the courage to chase (and catch) your dreams.

Memorable Quotes from the Episode

• ROB SHUTER: “Every big story of our generation started with a whisper.”

• ROR SHUTER: “If you change the word gossip to curiosity, it changes everything.”

• ROB SHUTER: “Marry someone who’s already happy.”

• ROB SHUTER: “Running away never leads anyone to where they want to go—run toward what you want.”

• ROB SHUTER: “Pick four words that define who you are—and live them every day.”

• ROB SHUTER: “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

• ROB SHUTER: “Redemption isn’t about holding onto someone else’s darkness—it’s about letting go of your own.”

• ROB SHUTER: “If you’re still chasing your dreams, you’re not running fast enough.”

Tune in to this unforgettable conversation on ON THE KNOWS for a powerful blend of celebrity insight, life advice, and storytelling that proves sometimes, the smallest whisper can lead to the biggest revelations.

www.OnTheKnows.com

Rob Shuter: www.RobShuter.Substack.com

Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com

Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com

Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode of ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones, rock icon Pat Benatar joins Jones for an intimate, funny, and deeply reflective conversation about creativity, longevity, and the power of connection.

Benatar dives into the mindset that has fueled her decades-long career. She shares how kindness, curiosity, and being fully present shaped her journey, including a formative early encounter with Jones that left a lasting impact on him.

The conversation explores her transition into children’s literature, co-writing a book inspired by her grandchildren and a desire to help kids see themselves reflected in the world around them. Benatar reveals that her creative process, whether writing songs or books, stems from the same place: observation, rhythm, and emotional truth.

Together, Benatar and Jones reflect on aging, purpose, and the urgency of time, with Benatar offering powerful insight into living intentionally in life’s “fourth quarter.” The episode also touches on her enduring partnership with husband and collaborator Neil Giraldo, her love of reading and introspection, and the balance between solitude and performing for thousands.

By the end, this conversation becomes more than an interview—it’s a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life.

ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones is a long-form interview podcast featuring in-depth, personal conversations with celebrities, creators, and thought leaders. Known for its authenticity and emotional depth, the show explores what people know—about life, success, failure, and everything in between—through candid storytelling and genuine connection.

Featured Quotes from Pat Benatar:

• “Kindness is part of my DNA.”

• “I won’t fight a fight I can’t win.”

• “Everything is a subject… everything can be expanded on.”

• “I just want to think. That is my work.”

• “I’ve never said I’m bored. Ever.”

• “There isn’t enough time. There’s so much more to know.”

• “There is nothing more important than loving the most and hardest you can.”

• “There is nothing more important than imagination and adventure.”

www.OnTheKnows.com

Pat Benatar: www.BenatarGiraldo.com

Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com

Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com

Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Go beyond the familiar voice and discover the heart, artistry, and insight behind one of technology's most recognizable features, Siri. In this engaging episode of ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones, host Randall Kenneth Jones welcomes not just a legendary guest—but a longtime collaborator and close friend, Susan Bennett, best known as the Original Voice of Siri.

For nearly a decade, Bennett has served as the show's announcer while also sharing a genuine off-mic friendship with Jones—giving this conversation a rare authenticity, warmth, and humor. Their easy rapport fuels a candid discussion that blends personal stories with professional insight, offering listeners a truly definitive interview.

Bennett—an accomplished voice actor, voiceover artist, singer, and highly engaging keynote speaker—shares the surreal experience of becoming "classic Siri," revealing how she unknowingly recorded the voice that would become a global phenomenon. She reflects on the shock of going from anonymous performer to worldwide recognition, while also addressing misconceptions about credit, compensation, and the realities of working in voiceover.

The episode dives deeper into the art and science of voice acting, exploring the emotional connection people form with technology—and how Susan’s voice helped humanize the digital experience.

With thoughtful perspective, the conversation turns to the future of artificial intelligence, voice cloning, and creative ownership, highlighting both the opportunities and risks facing performers today. Bennett emphasizes the irreplaceable nuance of human talent, while Jones underscores the importance of creativity, originality, and connection in an AI-driven world.

Special shout-outs to Melissa Rivers, Rolonda Watts, Daniel Ross and Donald Duck. Special guest appearance by musician (and Susan's husband) Rick "Slipp" Hinkle.

ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones is a top-rated interview podcast celebrating arts, humanities, creativity, and human connection. Featuring in-depth conversations with actors, artists, authors, and cultural influencers, the show is known for its insightful storytelling, authentic dialogue, and uplifting focus on positivity and purpose—making it a standout for listeners seeking meaningful, creative inspiration.

Perfect for fans of voice acting, Apple Siri, artificial intelligence, storytelling, media innovation, and creative careers, this episode delivers a powerful blend of entertainment and insight—anchored by the real-life friendship at its core.

🎧 Listen now to hear the voice behind Siri—and the connection behind the conversation.

www.OnTheKnows.com

Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com

Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com 

Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

In this episode of On the Knows with Randall Kenneth Jones, Randy sits down with actor Tina Chiang, who stars as innocent yet spirited Sister Peter on the hit BritBox series "Sister Boniface Mysteries." Known for her compelling stage and screen presence, brilliant facial expressions, and thoughtful approach to storytelling, Chiang discusses her experience bringing complex characters to life in the beloved British crime drama and beyond.

 

During the conversation, Tina Chiang shares behind-the-scenes insights from "Sister Boniface Mysteries," including what makes the show's quirky sleuthing nun and vintage 1960s setting resonate not just with worldwide audiences but with Tina herself. She also reflects on her personal journey from Denmark to Singapore to the United Kingdom—and her professional journey from actor to bank compliance officer to actor again.

 

Host Randall Kenneth Jones guides the discussion through Chiang's creative process, her perspective on storytelling, and the collaborative energy behind producing a successful streaming series on BritBox. Fans of British mysteries, period dramas, and character-driven television will especially enjoy this thoughtful and entertaining conversation.

 

Whether you're a fan of British crime dramas, BritBox originals, or love conversations with talented creatives, this episode offers a fascinating look inside the world of "Sister Boniface Mysteries" and the artistry and joy behind the performances.

 

Special shout-outs to BritBox, "Absolutely Fabulous," convent schools, The Cotswolds, make-up, costume, and hair designers, casting directors, screenwriters, East Asian Artists, "Under the Tuscan Sun," Agatha Christie, "Father Brown," John Light, "Carry On" film series, reincarnation, Cynthia Rhodes, "Dirty Dancing," "Beyond Paradise," Kris Marshall, and "Sister Boniface Mysteries" series creator Jude Tindall.

 

ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones is a premier podcast and media platform that delivers "smart, funny, and heartfelt" conversations designed to inspire personal and professional growth. Hosted by bestselling author and creative consultant Randall Kenneth Jones, the show serves as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape" by focusing on the "little truths" that define our world.

 

Erin Brockovich endorses the show as "The best host and podcast ever," and each episode is introduced by Susan Bennett, the celebrated voice actor famously known as the original voice of Siri.

 

Best Quotes:

 

•            "I am always glad that I followed my heart. I didn't want to be on my deathbed regretting a life spent in banking."—Tina Chiang

•            "Things take time—and what's for you won't pass you by."—Tina Chiang

•            "Only you can tell your story with authenticity and honesty."—Tina Chiang

•            "Creativity is my thing—I am nothing if I'm not working on a project."—Randall Kenneth Jones

www.OnTheKnows.com 

Tina Chiang: https://www.instagram.com/chiang_tina

Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com 

Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com 

Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

What does it mean to matter? Why do humans seek meaning, purpose, and recognition?

Award-winning philosopher, public intellectual, and bestselling author Rebecca Newberger Goldstein joins ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones to explore the psychology and philosophy of mattering, human identity, morality, and the search for meaning.

Goldstein is the author of ten acclaimed books blending philosophy, science, literature, and human psychology, including:

36 Arguments for the Existence of God: A Work of Fiction

Betraying Spinoza: The Renegade Jew Who Gave Us Modernity

The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us

In this fascinating conversation, Goldstein and Jones examine why humans are driven by the need to matter—and how that instinct influences everything from personal relationships and self-worth to politics, prejudice, and cultural identity.

Goldstein earned her Ph.D. in philosophy of science from Princeton University and has taught at Yale, Columbia, NYU, Dartmouth, and Harvard. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, recipient of the MacArthur "Genius" Grant, and has received fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, Radcliffe Institute, Whiting Foundation, and the National Science Foundation.

In 2015, President Barack Obama awarded her the National Humanities Medal for her contributions to philosophy and literature.

This episode explores big questions about human nature, purpose, philosophy, personal identity, and how the need to matter shapes our lives and societies.

About ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones

Called "the best podcast and host ever" by recurring guest Erin Brockovich, ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones is a dynamic Society & Culture, Personal Growth, and Arts podcast exploring success, creativity, leadership, books, and human potential.

Across 200+ energetic interviews, host Randall Kenneth Jones speaks with celebrity guests, bestselling authors, artists, innovators, and cultural thought leaders about their journeys, insights, and lessons learned.

With a frequent focus on authors, books, philosophy, and the humanities, the podcast blends intellectual curiosity, humor, storytelling, and practical wisdom—creating engaging conversations about creativity, purpose, legacy, lifelong learning, and personal growth.

Often described as an antidote to today's anxiety-driven media landscape, the show celebrates conversation, curiosity, kindness, laughter, and connection.

Host Randall Kenneth Jones is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and communications consultant. The show's announcer is celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, best known as the original voice of Apple's Siri. The podcast is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones.

Memorable Quotes from the Interview

• "Every living thing is organically driven by a mandate that ensures it matters to itself—which is to say that it prioritizes its own surviving and thriving."—Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

• "Do I matter? This is the mother of our mattering questions."—Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

• "I used to think I wanted to be famous, but now I know I just want to matter." — Randall Kenneth Jones

• "When it comes to our own mattering, we are staunch realists. We don't want feelings. We want the facts."—Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

• "Some seek to demonstrate their mattering by diminishing the mattering of others—racism, sexism, classism, jingoism, elitism, and other forms of mattering diminishment."—Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

• "There just doesn't seem to be enough mattering to go around, and we scramble like children beneath a piñata."—Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

Learn More

www.OnTheKnows.com

Rebecca Newberger Goldstein www.RebeccaGoldstein.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Listening to the ON THE KNOWS podcast with master interviewer Randall Kenneth Jones as he sits down with acclaimed author Patrick Ryan is a must for fans of literary fiction, family sagas, and deep-dive storytelling. This 2026 interview explores the creative process behind Ryan's expansive 2025 novel, Buckeye, a "Read With Jenna" book club pick that spent multiple weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Patrick Ryan's book "Buckeye" was named the #1 Best Book of the Year for 2025 by Amazon editors. This top honor recognizes his novel as the leading title on their annual list of top books. Why You Should Listen to This Episode • Behind the Scenes of a Bestseller: Discover how Patrick Ryan spent eight years crafting Buckeye, drawing inspiration from his own family's history and a shocking decades-old secret involving his grandmother in a small Ohio town. • The Art of "The Know": Host Randall Kenneth Jones is celebrated for his ability to ask "questions no one else can ask," moving beyond standard press junket talk to uncover the "little truths" that define his guests, his characters, and their shared belief systems. • Deep Themes of Forgiveness and Grief: The conversation delves into the heart of Ryan's work, exploring how individuals are defined by their mistakes and how the often unspoken words between loved ones shape generations. • A Journey Through American History: Learn how Ryan uses a small-town Ohio setting to reflect sixty years of American history, from the 1920s to the 1980s, through the intertwined lives of two families. Patrick Ryan is the author of the story collections "The Dream Life of Astronauts" (named one of the Best Books of the Year by the St. Louis Times-Dispatch, Literary Hub, Refinery29, and Electric Literature, and longlisted for The Story Prize) and "Send Me." His work has appeared in The Best American Short Stories, the anthology Tales of Two Cities, and elsewhere. The former associate editor of Granta, he is the current editor-in-chief of the literary magazine One Story. He lives in New York City. Described by recurring guest Erin Brockovich as "The best podcast and host ever," "ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones" is a premier podcast and media platform dedicated to exploring the intersection of professional success, personal fulfillment, and human potential. Through a series of high-energy conversations with celebrities, changemakers, and thought leaders, Jones delves into the minds of entertainment industry icons and beyond to extract actionable leadership and lifestyle insights. With its frequent focus on authors and books, the arts and humanities, the show skillfully balances the glamour of fame, success, and/or the power of influence with the humor and pathos of everyday life, creating a rich tapestry of human nature and shared experience. Listeners are invited into inspiring discussions that prioritize personal growth and the pursuit of excellence, offering a masterclass in creativity and innovation. Host Randall Kenneth Jones is a bestselling author, speaker, and creative communications consultant. The announcer is the celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, widely known as the original voice of Siri. Often described as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape," ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones offers a fun yet meaningful spin on aging, legacy, lifelong learning, and "edutainment," by emphasizing "the importance of importance," conversation, laughter, listening, and thought. "ON THE KNOWS" is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. Podcast Interview Highlights: • Explanation of how Ryan and Randy "know" each other—through Randy's husband, Derek, and Ryan's mother, Beverly. • Patrick explains how he felt when he learned Amazon voted his book the #1 Book of the Year for 2025, as well as the thrill of being a Read with Jenna Today Show pick. • Randy praises Patrick's gift for language, descriptions, and exposition, and provides specific examples. • Patrick explains his writing process and provides specific examples. • Patrick explains his reasons for choosing this story, these characters, this time period, and these themes. • Patrick shares his personal connection to Ohio, the book's setting. • Patrick shares is view on "the complicated nature of forgiveness." • Discussion on the concepts of aging and the passage of time with Randy's shoutout to Allison Janney, who Randy feels should be in a film firm because shes the U.S.'s version of Judi Dench, she makes everything she's in better. • Discussion on Patrick as narrator, not passing judgment on his characters. • Discussion on the definition of a "villain" and what it means when "life" and "expectations" are the villain. Includes comparisons to Randy's Book "Ruby, Magic Comes From the Heart." Randy shares a personal story about how Cynthia Rhodes from "Dirty Dancing" inspired his book, "Ruby." • Discussion on actual writing/creative process. • Discussion on the non-traditional inclusion of a psychic character in the book, including Randy's reveal of what he learned about Patrick from his personal friend, psychic medium Linda Spellman — www.lightofthephoenix.com • Discussion on grief's impact on the book. • Randy emotionally shares the impact of Patrick's work on his career over the past 20 years. Best Quotes from Interview: • "If we are not conducting our lives in such a way that is geared toward helping other people have better lives, then there's no point." — Patrick Ryan • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "Bonhomie wasn't nearly so small that everyone knew everyone else, but it was small enough that, sooner or later, most everyone felt as if they'd laid eyes on most everyone else." • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "The wisdom that comes with age was needling, he found, because it brought the clarity of hindsight without the means to change anything." • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "Good opportunities sometimes come wrapped in garbage." • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "People were much nicer when you had a little money. It was like a secret handshake that gained you admission to a friendlier world." • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "Don't talk to anyone who doesn't seem nice. Don't talk to any man who has his pants hiked up and his business shoved over to one side, on display." • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "That's the whole point," Becky said. "Is the future knowable? Will our older selves be anything like our younger selves thought we would be? We can only find out by writing it down and then putting it out of our minds and letting life take its course. The unraveling of time should be mysterious, don't you think?" • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "What is it about time that confounds us? We spend it. We save it. We while it away. We waste it. We kill it. We complain about not having enough of it, or about having too much of it on our hands. We regret what we've done with it. We give it away. We want it back. We say "time and again" when something is bothering us and "it's time" when something is supposed to end. Felix saw it so clearly: all we should ever want of time is more of it. Life was so simple when it was reduced to the barest of necessities: more time; more air; more Duke Ellington." • "A lot of lying on a regular basis would have to start feeling like the truth." — Patrick Ryan • Excerpt from BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan: "Wasn't it a fair measure of a person, what they did with their mistakes? How they managed to stumble into some of the right steps, after taking all the wrong ones? • "There's no expiration date on our ability to create or our ability to contribute." Randall Kenneth Jones www.OnTheKnows.com Patrick Ryan: www.PatrickRyanBooks.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Film historian and acclaimed New York Times bestselling biographer Scott Eyman has written the definitive biography of Hollywood icon Joan Crawford, drawing on never-before-seen documents and photos from the Crawford estate. Joan Crawford flourished for decades, working for multiple studios in every genre from romance to westerns ("Mildred Pierce," "Johnny Guitar"), musicals to noir ("Torch Song," "A Woman's Face"), and being directed by a young Steven Spielberg in one of her last appearances. Along the way, she accumulated four husbands, an Academy Award for Best Actress, and the undeniable status of a legend. Scott Eyman is the author or coauthor of eighteen books, including the bestseller "John Wayne," as well as "Pieces of My Heart" and "You Must Remember This" with actor Robert Wagner. Eyman, formerly the literary critic at The Palm Beach Post, also writes book reviews for The Wall Street Journal and has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Chicago Tribune. He and his wife, Lynn, live in West Palm Beach. Described by recurring guest Erin Brockovich as "The best podcast and host ever," "ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones" is a premier podcast and media platform dedicated to exploring the intersection of professional success, personal fulfillment, and human potential. Through a series of high-energy conversations with celebrities, changemakers, and thought leaders, Jones delves into the minds of entertainment industry icons and beyond to extract actionable leadership and lifestyle insights. With its frequent focus on the arts and humanities, the show skillfully balances the glamour of fame and/or the power of influence with the humor and pathos of everyday life, creating a rich tapestry of human nature and shared experience. Listeners are invited into inspiring discussions that prioritize personal growth and the pursuit of excellence, offering a masterclass in creativity and innovation. Whether highlighting a household name or a community activist, every episode is packed with life lessons and motivational stories designed to empower individuals to reach their highest potential. Host Randall Kenneth Jones is a bestselling author, speaker, and creative communications consultant. The announcer is the celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, widely known as the original voice of Siri. Often described as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape," ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones offers a fun yet meaningful spin on aging, legacy, lifelong learning, and "edutainment," by emphasizing the importance of importance, conversation, laughter, listening, and thought. "ON THE KNOWS" is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. Podcast Highlights: • Scott and Randy set a fun tone for the interview by discussing an appropriate quote from Howard Strickling, former MGM Head of Publicity: "Don't let them interview you. You interview them. Find out what they're interested in and ask them about it. Then you can direct the interview in the direction you want." • Scott explains why he chooses the projects he chooses. • Scott talks about how the pandemic led him to write his Charlie Chaplin book before his Joan Crawford book, due to the availability of information online. • Scott begins to explain Joan Crawford's appeal as a book subject. • Randy shares his personal connection with Joan's alma mater, Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. • Randy gives a shout-out to Dr. James Wood, former President of Stephens College, for providing Crawford with three rules for life that, to Jones, still stand the test of time: • Never quit a job until it's finished. • The world isn't interested in your problems. • If you can find you can do a job, move on, because you're already bigger than the job. If the job is impossible, stick with it. You may never accomplish it, but you'll grow in the trying. • Scott discusses Joan's (lack of) classroom education. • Randy and Scott discuss our nation's challenging relationship with identifying the "truth," how Scott defines "truth" in his work, specifically with regards to Joan Crawford, and in the infamous book/movie "Mommie Dearest." • Scott discusses the differences between Joan Crawford, Lucille LeSueur, and Billie Cassin, the three names she was known by in her life. • Scott discusses "Possessed" and why it's his favorite of Crawford's films. • Randy explains his fun connection to two films, having played comedic versions of Jane Hudson in a stage production of "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" and Cousin Miriam in "Hush Up, Sweet Charlotte" in Florida. • Scott and Randy discuss the kinder side of Joan Crawford and what she teaches us today. Being attentive, invested in others, a good listener, committed, and professional—and how these qualities are not unique to the entertainment industry. • Scott and Randy discuss the danger of hearsay and the absence of thoughtful research. • Randy thanks Scott for his sensitive yet honest portrayal of aging. Best Quotes: • Scott Eyman: "As both actress and woman, [Joan Crawford] forged ahead, determined to outrun squalor and damage, to transcend the fear that coexisted with the other primary qualities she brought to the movies, and to her life: courage… sexual energy… vitality… defiance. Joan Crawford learned to love the light, and the light loved her back." • Scott Eyman: "Joan was working-class with no education to speak of but plenty of vaulting ambition and saw no reason to lie about either." • Scott Eyman: "[Joan Crawford] really worked at cultivating an audience because the audience was standing in for all the love she hadn't had." • Scott Eyman: "Underneath the carapace of Joan Crawford, she was still Lucille LeSueur, a distressed worker with a perpetually endangered sense of self-worth." • Scott Eyman "[Joan Crawford] had a sense of herself as a role she must play, that she could play, and it was her best role. She knew how to do it." • Scott Eyman: "My job is to find the humanity in whatever I write about." www.OnTheKnows.com Scott Eyman: www.scotteyman.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Imagine your home suddenly transformed into a Hollywood icon. That's precisely what happened to John Abendshien, whose real-life house became the star of "Home Alone." More than just a film set, it turned into a character of its own, filled with traps and slapstick chaos that helped make the movie a global hit. Decades later, the house remains legendary. Tourists visit, merchandise abounds—even gingerbread replicas exist. In his new book, "Home But Alone No More," Abendshien shares the fascinating behind-the-scenes story: how the location was chosen, what filming was like, and the surreal experience of having a blockbuster take over his home—and life. Filming lasted five months in 1990, but the impact never ended. What followed was a mix of magic and madness, as the family's home became a permanent tourist attraction. Blending humor and heartfelt reflection, Abendshien draws parallels between himself and young Kevin McCallister, noting the film's deeper themes of family, independence, and resilience. Over time, the house stopped being just his—it became everyone's house. And as he says, when you're part of something this beloved, you're never really home alone. John Abendshien has over 45 years of experience providing consulting services to healthcare organizations in enterprise strategy, clinical services development, organizational design, and mergers and acquisitions. He has played a key role in the planning and development of some of the country's leading healthcare systems and has conducted 400+ consulting engagements across the United States with a broad range of organizations. John is a frequent speaker and lecturer on strategic planning and organizational change management, and is the author of the book "Health Care in the Next Curve: Transforming a Dysfunctional Industry" (CRC Press, 2018). In 2023, John was recognized by Marquis Who's Who for his contributions to the healthcare industry. John holds an M.B.A. and an M.S. degree in Health Services Management from the University of Missouri-Columbia and completed his administrative residency at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. He also served as an officer in the U.S. Army Medical Services Corps. "ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones" is a podcast that features smart, funny, and heartfelt conversations with celebrities, innovators, and everyday heroes. The show is designed to entertain, enlighten, and offer listeners new insights into the world, others, and themselves. The podcast is hosted by Randall Kenneth Jones, a bestselling author, speaker, and creative communications consultant. The announcer is the celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, widely known as the original voice of Siri. The podcast offers a unique spin on knowledge and education, emphasizing the importance of conversation, laughter, listening, and critical thinking. It is often described as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape." "ON THE KNOWS" is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. Podcast Highlights: • The only thing John didn't like about the final film was the horrible wallpaper, which didn't match the décor of John's home. • John shared why he waited 35 years to write the book—and John and Randy discuss why that has actually made it a better book. • John's 2nd-favorite memory from the set was time spent behind the scenes learning from production designer John Muto and cinematographer Julio Macat. John ultimately expresses very complimentary sentiments toward John Hughes, Chris Columbus, John Williams, and everyone involved in the movie. • John and Randy discuss their favorite cast members and why they have this honor. John's is Daniel Stern and Randy's is "the great and powerful" Catherine O'Hara. • John describes a childhood in which he was "home alone" much of the time. John and Randy share a hometown in Columbia, Missouri, and are both alums of the University of Missouri-Columbia. John and Randy discuss that neither of them ever "learned how to play." • John shares how his work in healthcare administration relates to his experience with HOME ALONE, both during filming and in the decades following the film's release. • John talks about his wonderful neighbors. • John shares how the film—and the chaos that followed—changed his view of life and how he personally changed over time. Best Quotes: • John Abendshien: "The 'Home Alone' crowd shattered almost every cliché ever said about Tinseltown. Every single person—yes, every last one—was down to earth and surprisingly easy to get along with." • John Abendshien: "We weren't just homeowners anymore; we were unwitting participants in a film production, witnessing the magic of moviemaking firsthand—crazy stunt scenes, a cast and crew who practically moved in, and the utter chaos that came with it all." • John Abendshien: "Kids, left to their own devices, are amazingly resourceful. Kids can figure things out and take care of themselves." • John Abendshien: "Despite having managed to take care of myself as a kid, there is a big gap in my upbringing—I never quite learned how to play." • John Abendshien: "It took me a while to realize it, but the truth is, we're all just guests in our own homes, whether we're talking about a house or our own bodies. We're here for a short time, and it's up to us to make room for others, to share our space." www.OnTheKnows.com John Abendshien: www.HomeButAloneNoMore.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Mark Malkoff is a comedian, writer, and podcast host. He has been featured on Today, Good Morning America, CNN, NPR's Weekend Edition, and for eight years hosted the popular podcast The Carson Podcast. His new book, "Love Johnny Carson," is a wildly entertaining account by one of the world's most obsessed and informed fans of TV icon Johnny Carson, setting the record straight on Carson's legacy and shining a light on the personality behind the legendary comedian and talk show host. Carson aficionado Mark Malkoff has amassed more Carson stories from original sources than anyone in entertainment history, speaking to over four hundred individuals, and now, in "Love Johnny Carson," he sets the record straight in this comprehensive portrait of Carson's life, career, legacy, and character. The book covers the debuts of stand-up comics like David Letterman and Ellen DeGeneres, the never-before-detailed reasons why Johnny stopped talking to Joan Rivers, why he banned guests like William Shatner and Orson Welles, the true origins of Carnac the Magnificent (it wasn't stolen from Steve Allen), the part Johnny played in getting Nixon elected president, the beloved comedian who the Carson writers dreaded guest-hosting, and many other behind-the-scenes stories of the funniest and most beloved Carson moments of all time. "ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones" is a podcast that features smart, funny, and heartfelt conversations with celebrities, innovators, and everyday heroes. The show is designed to entertain, enlighten, and offer listeners new insights into the world, others, and themselves. The podcast is hosted by Randall Kenneth Jones, a bestselling author, speaker, and creative communications consultant. The announcer is the celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, widely known as the original voice of Siri. The podcast offers a unique spin on knowledge and education, emphasizing the importance of conversation, laughter, listening, and critical thinking. It is often described as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape." Podcast Highlights: • Based on Mark's new book, this episode is an introduction to Mark's outstanding behind-the-scenes look at Johnny Carson's 30 years as leader of The Tonight Show. • Randy introduces a new "game show" entitled "Does Wikipedia Lie?" to introduce Mark and the various comedy stunts he has pulled off with Starbucks, Ikea, Netflix, & AirTran. • Let the name-dropping begin (from both guest and host): David Letterman, Michael J. Fox, Stephen Colbert, Joan Embery, Tiny Tim, Tommy Newsome, Rodney Dangerfield, Merv Griffin, Joey Bishop, Steve Lawrence, Don Rickles, Buddy Hackett, Jennifer Tilly, William Shatner, Diane Carroll, Lola Falana, Redd Foxx, Diana Ross, Gwen Verdon, The Pope, Dick Cavett, Buddy Rich, Steve McQueen, Shirley Jones, Jimmy Stewart, Jack Webb, Jimmy Cagney, Kate Capshaw, Jerry Lewis, Richard Nixon, Joan Rivers, Martin Luther King, Jr., Sammy Davis, Jr., • Mark and Randy both share touching, personal anecdotes about Regis Philbin. • Mark credits Carson's Midwest roots and his "likability" as major contributors to his success. • Randy's take-away from the book: "Carson is a combination of ego, paranoia, compassion, and above all, loyalty." • Mark discusses Carson's pet peeves (being corrected, someone turning their back on him). • The pair discusses the impact of being young white kids and the benefit of being introduced to black entertainers via the show. • The pair discusses their definitions of "star quality." Mark talks about the power of someone's "aura," onstage and offstage. Randy tells his personal story about interviewing Chita Rivera and how she shaped his view of star quality. Best Quotes: 0xEBggrOrtgDYi1K1NqL • Mark Malkoff: "For thirty years, Carson would become the one man who could calm a nervous nation during those anxious moments between wakefulness and sleep." • Mark Malkoff: He could listen to the guest, anticipate what he wanted to ask next, and, at the same time, scroll through the joke Rolodex in his mind to find the right quip." • Mark Malkoff: "That was Carson's brilliance. He knew what the audience wanted." • Mark Simone: "When you were a little kid growing up, Carson taught you this is how to be an adult. This is how to have a personality. This is how to conduct yourself in life." ON THE KNOWS is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. www.OnTheKnows.com Mark Malkoff: www.MarkMalkoff.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Once a niche medical procedure, egg freezing is now a billion-dollar industry that promises women the ability to pause their biological clocks and extend their reproductive choices. For some, it's a path to empowerment; for others, it's a costly gamble in an unregulated system with no guarantees. Through the experiences of three American women navigating the process, this documentary examines the realities behind the growing trend—who has access, who profits, and what's at stake. With insights from medical experts, ethicists, and industry leaders, the film unpacks the social, economic, and emotional complexities of egg freezing in a world where fertility is increasingly commodified. As more women turn to this technology with hopes of future parenthood, the question remains: What is the real cost—and the real impact—of putting fertility on ice? Robin Hauser is an award-winning director of documentaries, "Thaw," "$avvy," "CODE: Debugging the Gender Gap," "Bias," "Running for Jim," "Tino," at Finish Line Features, LLC. Robin's exploration into implicit gender and racial bias in artificial intelligence led her to present "Can we protect AI from our biases?" on the TED stage. She also presented a widely viewed TEDx talk on "The Likability Dilemma for Women Leaders," which has over 2 million views. Robin is a diplomat for the American Film Showcase; she speaks about fertility, financial literacy, bias, and on behalf of women's rights at The White House, US Embassies, conferences, and corporate headquarters worldwide. She serves on the Advisory Board of Impressia Bank and the Board of Directors of Unleashed Productions. "ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones" is a podcast that features smart, funny, and heartfelt conversations with celebrities, innovators, and everyday heroes. The show is designed to entertain, enlighten, and offer listeners new insights into the world, others, and themselves. The podcast is hosted by Randall Kenneth Jones, a bestselling author, speaker, and creative communications consultant. The announcer is the celebrated voice actor Susan Bennett, widely known as the original voice of Siri. The podcast offers a unique spin on knowledge and education, emphasizing the importance of conversation, laughter, listening, and critical thinking. It is often described as an "antidote to today's anxiety-ridden media landscape." Podcast Highlights: • Randy shared that Robin's film BIAS has had an ongoing impact on how he views his actions and thoughts today. • Robin and Randy share respect for the concept of diversity, equity, and inclusion. • Randy shares how Robin's films have helped him be a better mentor and parent to his own daughter. • The majority of the discussion centers on Robin's new film, THAW, which explores the rising trend of elective egg freezing. • Randy and Robin discuss both of their surprises—hers as part of the production process and his as a viewer of the film. • Robin and Randy discuss their definitions of "biological clock." • Robin describes how we are out-evolving evolution. • Robin shares her belief that OB-GYNs should begin discussions on pregnancy goals in the mid-20s. • Randy gets on his soapbox about the importance of men taking the time to understand women's health issues. Best Quotes: • Robin Hauser: "There's the realization of how precarious fertility really is. It's pretty much a miracle that anybody is born with all the right chromosomes in all the right order." • Robin Hauser: "How do we continue to respect women's choices in terms of career, in terms of education, in terms of not settling for being with someone with whom they don't want to be, and this choice of whether or not they want to be a mother? • Randall Kenneth Jones: "As you age together, you are each other's health care advocate. Men must understand women's health issues and vice versa. Gentlemen, get involved. Understand these issues because she would do it for you." • Robin Hauser: "As women, we spend half of our young adult life trying not to get pregnant. We need to be spoken to about our fertility and the chances of us being able to get pregnant early on, even in our mid-twenties. A lot of us take it for granted that we're going to be able to get pregnant." ON THE KNOWS is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. www.OnTheKnows.com Robin Hauser: www.RobinHauser.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com

Dive into the behind-the-scenes world of the movie business, where entertainment strategist Kevin Goetz reveals the pivotal intersection of creative instinct and audience insight. This is the sweet spot where the business of film meets the art of storytelling. When it comes to cinematic success, every detail matters—from early concept to the final marketing push. "How to Score in Hollywood" is a playbook for guiding movie-making decisions at every turn. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience, Goetz shows how films can be made and marketed to turn a profit by aligning creative ambition with good business practice, all toward the goal of serving up entertainment experiences that audiences will embrace. Whether you're a filmmaker, studio executive, entrepreneur, student, or movie lover, this book pulls back the curtain on the formula for success, revealing principles that apply to any business where creativity must meet consumer expectations. Through his own entertaining examples and stories shared by some of the biggest movers and shakers in Hollywood, Goetz illustrates how audience insights, budget discipline, and marketplace awareness shape a film's financial outcome. Key insights include: • Curating big ideas to build a strong commercial foundation • At the earliest stages, knowing the audience that will be most interested in your movie, and budgeting for its size • Defining why a film should exist and what value it brings to the market • Understanding how digital platforms have reshaped audience behavior • Standing out in a crowded landscape with bold marketing executions • Using audience research to recognize key strengths and identify red flags that will drive smart decision-making • Making sure you have a clear plan for the entire movie lifecycle, especially with creatively risky material Kevin Goetz is the founder and CEO of Screen Engine, a global leader in entertainment research and strategy, serving all the major film studios, television networks, and streaming services. Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of Hollywood, having personally tested over 5,000 film titles, where his work significantly impacts how movies are made, marketed, and released. In 2024, Kevin received American Cinematheque's prestigious Power of Cinema Award for his contributions to the film industry. He is the author of the bestselling "Audience-ology" and "How to Score in Hollywood," which explores the secrets to success in the movie business. Kevin hosts the popular Don't Kill the Messenger podcast and continues educating the filmmaking community through keynote speeches and global presentations. He has produced twelve TV movies, including the Emmy-winning "Wild Iris," and the 2025 documentary "Children in the Fire." A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Television Academy, and the Producers Guild of America, Kevin also serves on the boards of six nonprofit organizations. He currently resides in Beverly Hills with his husband, Neil, a producer and former creative advertising executive, and their labradoodle, Kasha. Bob Levin is a legendary movie marketing executive, having for over two decades holding the position of president, worldwide marketing at first Disney, then Sony and MGM. As well as being a key member of each studio's greenlight committee, he led the advertising, publicity, promotion, and research programs that helped launch hundreds of films, breaking numerous box office records throughout his career. Bob came out of semi-retirement when Kevin Goetz invited him to join Screen Engine/ASI as president and chief operating officer, where he has played a pivotal role in the company's continued success. His first book, "How to Score in Hollywood," co-written with Kevin, reveals the secrets to a movie's success and profitability, exploring how smart, data-driven decisions—from development to release—help filmmakers minimize risks and maximize returns. Bob lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Hilda Wynn. Podcast Highlights: • The trio discusses how Kevin's childhood lemonade stand is indicative of the entrepreneurial spirit that has driven Kevin's career. • The trio discusses the importance of involving the audience in the film's pre-production process. • Randy explains how he is personally using their new book, "How to Score in Hollywood," as a how-to guide for his current meetings in Hollywood. He shares his opinion that the book should be read by filmmakers, authors, screenwriters & playrights, film students, business students, actors, film buff, theatre producers and directors. • Kevin and Bob discuss how to position Randy's book, "Ruby, Magic Comes from the Heart," for film success. • Kevin and Bob discuss their view on the "awards circuit." • The trio emphasizes the importance of clear messaging in all communications and interactions. • The trio discusses the importance of creativity as the "secret sauce" to success. • Kevin and Bob use Randy's book, "Ruby, Magic Comes from the Heart," as a case study for generating interest with producers and filmmakers. • Kevin discusses the additional content available on his podcast, "Don't Kill the Messenger," where he interviews filmmakers, studio executives, and producers. Best Quotes: • Kevin Goetz: "Every movie, no matter what its genesis, should be able to have a soul and produce a profit." • Kevin Goetz: "Any new entrepreneurial idea has to start with a spark—a moment of 'art' that has very little to do with the audience. That's between you, the creator, you the artist, and the universe." • Kevin Goetz: "Let me pause here to reinforce the serendipity of life in Hollywood. Talent is the price of entry and is in no short supply. But everyone who is successful has a lucky break story." • Kevin Goetz: "Staying one step ahead of audience expectations is what separates a good movie from a great one." ON THE KNOWS is produced and edited by Kevin Randall Jones. www.OnTheKnows.com Kevin Goetz: www.KevinGoetz360.com Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com