Dystopia Tonight With John Poveromo

Day 272 - Craig Northey - Half The Journey is The Ride

Craig Northey is a prolific musician, songwriter, and composer with a career that spans decades of memorable music and dynamic collaborations. As a founding member of the iconic Canadian rock band Odds, Craig made his mark with hits like "It Falls Apart" and "Someone Who’s Cool." He’s currently balancing tours with three distinct groups: the ever-evolving Odds, the Steven Page Trio (with Steven Page of Barenaked Ladies and cellist Kevin Fox), and Trans-Canada Highwaymen, a Canadian supergroup featuring Moe Berg (The Pursuit of Happiness) and Chris Murphy (Sloan). In addition to his work on stage, Craig has established himself as an acclaimed composer for film and television, creating unforgettable scores for beloved shows like Kids in the Hall, Corner Gas, and Corner Gas Animated. Whether he’s crafting a catchy tune or setting the perfect mood for the screen, Craig Northey brings passion, creativity, and a unique sound to everything he does.

Day 271 - Tim Matheson - Damn Glad To Meet Him

Tim Matheson is a veteran actor, director, and producer whose career spans over seven decades in Hollywood. With a journey that began in childhood, Tim has grown from a young actor in beloved classics to an industry stalwart known for his immense talent and versatility. Best known for his role as Vice President John Hoynes on the critically acclaimed series “The West Wing,” Matheson also captured hearts as the charming Otter in the cult classic film “Animal House.” His extensive work includes popular early roles in shows like “Bonanza” and “Leave It to Beaver,” showcasing his range from an early age. More recently, he has become a familiar face to a new generation through his role as Dr. Vernon Mullins in the popular Netflix series “Virgin River,” where he brings warmth and depth to the beloved character.

 

Beyond the screen, Tim has shared countless memories and lessons from his life in show business, reflecting on the relationships and experiences that have shaped him. Tim joins John to talk about his new book, Damn Glad to Meet You, a heartfelt recounting of his rich experiences and unforgettable stories from a lifetime in entertainment. In this episode, we explore tales featuring legends such as Lucille Ball, Dick Van Dyke, John Candy, Clint Eastwood, and Mel Brooks, offering listeners an intimate glimpse behind the scenes of Hollywood’s golden moments. From working with comedy giants to sharing insights on dramatic storytelling, Tim’s reflections are a celebration of an extraordinary career filled with resilience, humor, and cherished friendships.

Day 270 - Cal Dodd - The Best There Is

Cal Dodd is a celebrated voice actor best known for his iconic portrayal of Wolverine in the 1990s animated series X-Men: The Animated Series, a role that solidified him as the definitive voice of the beloved Marvel character. His deep, gravelly voice brought a rugged, powerful edge to Wolverine, capturing the character’s intensity and complexity. Born in Ireland and raised in Canada, Dodd began his career as a musician before transitioning to voice acting. With a career spanning decades, he has worked on numerous animated series, commercials, and video games, earning a dedicated fan following for his versatility and memorable performances. Cal Dodd remains a legendary figure in voice acting, especially revered in the world of comic book animation.

Day 269 - Marley Uribe - The Truth in Art and Culture

Marley Uribe is a talented Mexican-American actress and filmmaker based in Los Angeles, deeply connected to her heritage and passionate about telling authentic stories. Proud of her roots, Marley was inspired to create her own film in response to claims that Frida Kahlo was merely a "white girl" appropriating indigenous culture.

In her film FRIDA: THE WOMAN, Marley beautifully highlights the rich tapestry of Mexican culture, which is a unique blend of indigenous and mestizo (European) influences. She dives into how this cultural fusion played a significant role in shaping Frida's early artistry and iconic style, bringing to light a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Frida's identity and the world that shaped her.

Day 268 - Christian Cordes - Ghostbuster Down

Christian Cordes is an award winning, and extremely versatile filmmaker, director, writer, and podcaster known for his creative storytelling and compelling projects. We discuss his latest venture, Ghostbuster Down, our shared love for the Muppets and Scrubs, his friendship with Kevin Smith, family history, and more! Full episode link in bio!

Day 267 - Felix Cavaliere - Always A Rascal

Felix Cavaliere is an American singer, songwriter, and keyboardist best known as a founding member and lead vocalist of The Rascals (originally known as The Young Rascals). Born on November 29, 1942, in Pelham, New York, Cavaliere became a key figure in the 1960s blue-eyed soul movement. With The Rascals, he co-wrote and performed hits like "Good Lovin'," "Groovin'," and "People Got to Be Free." Known for his soulful voice and Hammond organ skills, Cavaliere has continued to perform and record as a solo artist and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Day 266 - Ryan Stout - Imagining Offense

Ryan Stout is a seasoned stand-up comedian who has performed all over the world. He’s made over 200 television appearances on programs including CONAN, Chelsea Lately, HBO’s Funny as Hell, Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, and his own half-hour special: Comedy Central Presents… Ryan Stout. He’s hosted game shows, clip shows, and talk shows for networks like MTV, FOX, CBS, and AXS TV. Ryan has also released three stand-up comedy albums — Touché (2011), How to Be an Audience (2016), and Man in the Suit (2019) — which all debuted at the top of the comedy sales charts and have since been streamed millions of times across multiple platforms and are regularly broadcast on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio. He’s been heard on comedy podcasts like WTF with Marc Maron, Your Mom’s House, and Doug Loves Movies. And, if you have real sharp eyes, you might’ve seen Ryan on Netflix in the documentary American Meme (2018) and in the Academy Award winning film Mank (2020).

 

www.ryanstout.com

Day 265 - Jamie Marie Hannigan - "Eye 2 Eye"

Jamie has shared stages with Alicia Keys, Michelle Branch, JaRule, The Backstreet Boys, Mandy Moore, Blondie, Cindy Lauper, and many others. She has performed at world famous NY Couture Fashion Week as well as Michael Jackson’s Official This Is It DVD Release Live where she worked with Michael’s dancers, choreographer Travis Payne and director Kenny Ortega. Theater credits include; You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Sally), Blood Brothers (Linda), Little Shop Of Horrors (Audrey), The Rocky Horror Show (Columbia). Jamie Marie has appeared in films such as Cafe Society, (working directly with Kristen Stewart and Steve Carell), Not Fade Away (with James Gandolfini), Step Up, and featured in National Commercials for Nickelodeon and MasterCard to name a few. Television credits include; Orange Is The New Black, Blue Bloods, Law & Order: SVU and Law & Order Criminal Intent. Locally, Jamie has  championed the integration of dance with live bands along the iconic Jersey Shore music scene and beyond, performing with well-known acts like Glen Burtnik, Motor City Revue and Remember Jones. Her live show The Velvet Stardust Rock Show tours NYC to LA and brings rock & roll burlesque to a whole new level. Critics hailing the show as “hippest band in NYC right now” and “the key to yet another downtown epoch.” Her passion for advocacy and activism coincides with her mission to provide a safe space where ALL have opportunities to create and perform. She has done so since 2006 as the founder and director of Stage Stars Productions. Creating next-level live band, immersive, theatrical experiences, as well as raising funds and awareness for countless local and global charitable organizations over the last 17 years and receiving numerous awards for her work in social justice and positive change through the arts. Follow her journey on Instagram @jamiemariestar @stagestars_nj @velvetstardustrock @starlightjazzshow 

Day 264 - Bronson Pinchot - Purveyor Of Alternate Reality

Bronson Pinchot joins me on this episode of Dystopia Tonight! As a versatile actor celebrated for his unforgettable roles in both television and film Bronson has captivated audiences with his comedic talent and charismatic presence. He is best known for his iconic portrayal of Balki Bartokomous on the hit sitcom "Perfect Strangers and as Serge in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise. Beyond his work on "Perfect Strangers," he has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, showcasing his range and depth as an actor. Bronson is also an accomplished audiobook narrator, bringing stories to life with his distinctive voice. With a career spanning several decades, he remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

 

On this episode we touch on some topical things going on but mostly focus on his life, career, acting, armchair warriors, Rudolph Nureyev, Charlie Chaplin, never having a game plan, no partying, Eddie Murphy, Paul Reiser, Kevin Bacon, dabbling in standup, his one man show and more! Enjoy!

Day 263 - Jerry Harrison - An Undramatic Ending

Jerry Harrison is a legendary musician, songwriter, and producer best known as the keyboardist and guitarist for the influential band Talking Heads. A key figure in the new wave movement, Jerry's innovative sound and creative vision helped shape the band's distinctive style. In addition to his work with Talking Heads, Jerry has a successful solo career and has produced albums for numerous acclaimed artists. His contributions to music have earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering force in the industry.

We talk about his time performing in NJ with Talking Heads, Asbury Park, Jon Bon Jovi, Remain In Light, Songs of Arthur Russel, knowing Talking Heads was going to have a cultural impact, David Byrnes’s organization, CBGBs, Blondie, Patti Smith, misheard lyrics, social media, and more. Enjoy!