
Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
- celebrity interviews
- music industry insights
Podcast Focus
- interviews with celebrities
- musicians and athletes
Publishing Consistency
- 154 episodes produced
- active for 5 years
Platform Reach
- no platforms detected yet
- unknown follower count
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Total monthly reach
Estimated from 19 chart positions in 19 markets.
By chart position
- 🇺🇸US · Film Interviews#11300K to 1M
- 🇨🇦CA · Film Interviews#39100K to 300K
- 🇬🇧GB · Film Interviews#1145K to 30K
- 🇩🇪DE · Film Interviews#1315K to 30K
- 🇦🇺AU · Film Interviews#1485K to 30K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
371K to 1.2M🎙 ~2x weekly·154 episodes·Last published yesterday - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
741K to 2.5M🇺🇸41%🇨🇦12%🇮🇳12%+16 more - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
296K to 982K
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
—
* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
Recent episodes
Melissa Etheridge: The Fire, The Guitar, and The Rise
Jun 11, 2026
16m 31s
Jim Gaffigan Talks Letterman, Football, Bourbon, and The Everything Is Wonderful Tour
Jun 9, 2026
16m 38s
Dolph Lundgren: From Ivan Drago to History’s Greatest Machines
May 29, 2026
12m 59s
Nate Bargatze on The Breadwinner, SNL Secrets & Becoming America’s Funniest Dad
May 28, 2026
12m 40s
Maria Menounos: Designed to Last and Learning to Listen
May 22, 2026
19m 09s
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/11/26 | ![]() Melissa Etheridge: The Fire, The Guitar, and The Rise | In this soulful and inspiring episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Grammy-winning rock icon Melissa Etheridge joins Gentry to talk about her Raised on Radio Tour with Wynonna Judd. The tour brings together two powerhouse voices for a night of hits, stories, and the kind of music that shaped generations of radio listeners.Fans can find tour dates and buy tickets here: Melissa Etheridge Tour 2026 Melissa also talks about her new album, Rise, released through Sun Records. The album features heartfelt, triumphant songs produced by Shooter Jennings and Melissa Etheridge at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, including “Don’t You Want a Woman,” “Bein’ Alive,” “Call You,” and “The Other Side of Blue,” featuring Chris Stapleton.Fans can shop or stream Rise here: Melissa Etheridge Store Gentry and Melissa dive into what it means to be raised in the radio era, how radio helped shape her as an artist, and what it’s like touring with Wynonna Judd. Melissa reflects on working with the legendary Sun Records, writing songs with deep emotional weight, and the craft behind performing with feeling, including her method of playing guitar without relying on a metronome. The conversation also turns personal as Melissa talks about coming out in 1993, what that moment meant at the time, and how honesty, courage, and authenticity have guided her life and music ever since. From radio roots and raw songwriting to touring, truth, and resilience, this episode is full of heart, wisdom, and the unmistakable voice of Melissa Etheridge. | 16m 31s | ||||||
| 6/9/26 | ![]() Jim Gaffigan Talks Letterman, Football, Bourbon, and The Everything Is Wonderful Tour | In this hilarious and easygoing episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian Jim Gaffigan joins Gentry to talk about his new stand-up run, The Everything Is Wonderful Tour. Known for his clean, sharp, and brutally relatable comedy, Jim shares what fans can expect from the new material and how his life, family, and point of view continue to fuel his work on stage. Fans can find tour dates and buy tickets here:Jim Gaffigan Everything is Wonderful Tour Jim also talks about his bourbon brand, Fathertime, a Kentucky straight bourbon inspired by fatherhood, parenting, and the need for dads to occasionally take a well-earned pause. Fans 21+ can learn more and shop Fathertime bourbon here:Fathertime Bourbon Gentry and Jim dive into what it was like growing up in Indiana, Jim’s early life as an athlete, and his time playing college football as an offensive lineman. The conversation also gets into his love of bourbon, the discipline behind stand-up, and what it feels like to be one of the most prolific comedians working today, with a long list of comedy specials and decades of material behind him. From football and family to bourbon and big laughs, this episode is packed with classic Jim Gaffigan honesty, wit, and warmth. | 16m 38s | ||||||
| 5/29/26 | ![]() Dolph Lundgren: From Ivan Drago to History’s Greatest Machines | In this powerful and fascinating episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actor, filmmaker, martial artist, and action icon Dolph Lundgren joins Gentry to talk about his new HISTORY Channel series, History’s Greatest Machines with Dolph Lundgren. The show follows Dolph as he explores the engineering, innovation, and impact behind some of the most important machines ever built, from military technology and spy planes to rockets, helicopters, and inventions that changed the course of history. The series premieres Monday, June 1 at 10/9c on HISTORY, with episodes available through HISTORY and participating TV providers. Fans can watch episodes and learn more here:History's Greatest Machines With Dolph Lundgren Dolph also opens up about his personal battle with cancer and what it took to keep fighting through one of the toughest chapters of his life. He shares insight into his workout and training regimen, the discipline that has carried him through decades of action roles, and how he continues to stay strong physically and mentally. Of course, the conversation goes back to one of his most iconic roles: Ivan Drago in Rocky IV. Dolph tells Gentry what it was like stepping onto that legendary set, preparing for the role, and even meeting James Brown during the making of the film. The interview also touches on Dolph’s vodka business with his wife, his life outside of Hollywood, and the drive that keeps him curious, creative, and constantly evolving. From action movies and machines to survival, reinvention, and real-life grit, this episode delivers a rare look at Dolph Lundgren beyond the screen. | 12m 59s | ||||||
| 5/28/26 | ![]() Nate Bargatze on The Breadwinner, SNL Secrets & Becoming America’s Funniest Dad | In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian Nate Bargatze joins Gentry to talk about his new family comedy movie, The Breadwinner. The film stars Nate as a salesman and father who suddenly has to hold down the household after his wife, played by Mandy Moore, lands a major business opportunity that takes her away from home. The result is a funny, relatable story about parenting, chaos, and learning how to do things your own way. The Breadwinner opens exclusively in theaters on May 29, 2026. Fans can watch the trailer and get tickets here:The Breadwinner Nate and Gentry also connect over something pretty unique: both of them grew up with magicians for dads. They talk about what that kind of childhood was like, how it shaped their sense of humor, and how growing up around entertainment can quietly prepare you for life on stage. The conversation also takes a trip through Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood, and Nate’s big dream of building his own theme park called Nate Land. Nate opens up about being a girl dad, what touring life is really like, and how his stand-up career has grown from comedy clubs to arenas. Gentry and Nate also talk about what it was like hosting Saturday Night Live twice, how acting in a movie compares to doing stand-up, and why comedy continues to be the thing he loves most. From family stories and fatherhood to SNL, movies, Tennessee, and the future of Nate Land, this episode is packed with laughs, heart, and classic Nate Bargatze charm. | 12m 40s | ||||||
| 5/22/26 | ![]() Maria Menounos: Designed to Last and Learning to Listen | In this inspiring and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Maria Menounos joins Gentry to talk about her new Hulu series, Designed to Last. The show brings together teams of architects, engineers, and inventors as they compete in intense build challenges, creating homes designed to stand up against the worst Mother Nature can throw at them, including wind, water, snow, ice, and fire. Fans can watch Designed to Last on Hulu here:Designed to Last on Hulu Maria gives Gentry a behind-the-scenes look at the wild production of the show, including the damage, destruction, and chaos that made filming so much fun. She talks about the excitement of watching these builds get pushed to the limit and how the series blends entertainment, science, design, and real-world preparedness. The conversation also turns deeply personal as Maria opens up about surviving hardship, learning to roll with life’s punches, and becoming the CEO of her own health. She discusses how she discovered she had a brain tumor, the lessons she learned through that experience, and why resetting the nervous system has become such an important part of her healing and wellness journey. Maria and Gentry also talk about her incredible career, from interviewing multiple U.S. presidents to growing up as an 80s and 90s kid, and the mindset that has helped her keep moving forward through every challenge. From Hollywood stories to health wisdom and the chaos of a destructive design competition, this episode is full of heart, humor, resilience, and ins | 19m 09s | ||||||
| 5/19/26 | ![]() Bob Odenkirk on Saul Goodman, Chris Farley and his new movie "Normal" | In this action-packed and hilarious episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Bob Odenkirk joins Gentry to talk about his new film Normal, a kinetic neo-Western action thriller directed by Ben Wheatley and written by Derek Kolstad. Bob stars as Ulysses, an unassuming substitute sheriff with a troubled past who takes a quiet posting in a small town, only to get pulled into a dangerous conspiracy after a bank robbery reveals something far more explosive beneath the surface. Fans can watch the trailer for Normal Here --> Normal - Official Trailer Bob and Gentry dive into what makes Normal such a wild ride, including the fun of working on action movies filled with chaos, guns, danger, and dark comedy. Bob also talks about working alongside the great Henry Winkler, why he believes Henry is such a gifted actor, and what it was like sharing scenes with him. The conversation also goes deep into Bob’s comedy roots. He shares what it’s like writing sketch comedy, including the legendary “Motivational Speaker” sketch with Chris Farley, and how that kind of writing helped shape his voice as a performer. Of course, Bob also reflects on playing Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, why audiences connected so deeply with the character, and how Saul became one of television’s most unforgettable personalities. From sketch comedy to prestige TV to full-throttle action, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and insight from one of the most versatile performers in entertainment. | 14m 14s | ||||||
| 5/1/26 | ![]() Cedric the Entertainer on What Entertains the Entertainer | In this fun and animated episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedy legend Cedric the Entertainer joins Gentry to talk about his new Netflix animated movie, Swapped. The film is a body-swap animated adventure featuring a stacked voice cast that includes Michael B. Jordan, Juno Temple, Tracy Morgan, Cedric the Entertainer, Justina Machado, and more. Watch Swapped on Netflix here: Netflix - Swapped Cedric talks about what it’s like stepping into the world of animation, how voice acting differs from live-action comedy, and the challenge of bringing a character to life using only your voice. He also reflects on the different animated projects he’s been part of throughout his career and why animation allows performers to stretch in a completely different way. Gentry and Cedric also have some fun with the movie’s body-swap concept, including who Cedric would swap bodies with if he could choose anyone, alive or dead. The conversation also dives into his hit CBS show The Neighborhood, his current work on Broadway, and how he continues to evolve as a performer across stand-up, television, film, animation, and theater. From Netflix animation to sitcom success and Broadway lights, this episode is full of laughs, wisdom, and classic Cedric charm. | 16m 42s | ||||||
| 4/30/26 | ![]() RZA on Wu-Tang’s Legacy, Tarantino, and the Mindset Behind It All | In this powerful episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Gentry sits down with RZA, the legendary rapper, producer, filmmaker, and founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan. RZA joins the show to talk about his new film, One Spoon of Chocolate, a stylish action thriller starring Shameik Moore, Paris Jackson, RJ Cyler, Blair Underwood, and more. The film follows a veteran and ex-convict looking for a fresh start in a small town, only to uncover something much darker beneath the surface. Fans can watch the trailer, find screenings, and buy tickets here:One Spoon of Chocolate RZA and Gentry dive into what it takes to create a film from the ground up, with RZA breaking down the writing, directing, and production process behind One Spoon of Chocolate. He also opens up about whether making an album or making a movie is harder, and how hip-hop, cinema, martial arts, and storytelling all connect in his creative universe. The conversation also gets personal as RZA reflects on the loss of his Wu-Tang brother Ol’ Dirty Bastard, the legacy of the group, and what Wu-Tang means to hip-hop culture today. He shares stories about working with Paris Jackson, discussing her connection to Michael Jackson, and the unique timing of their projects being released around the same time. RZA also talks about his relationship with filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, his evolution from music legend to director, and the lessons he’s learned building worlds through both sound and cinema. From Wu-Tang history to Hollywood storytelling, this episode is packed with wisdom, creativity, and raw authenticity from one of the most influential artists of his generation. | 23m 53s | ||||||
| 3/26/26 | ![]() Wes Scantlin Unfiltered: Music, Life, and the Road Back | In this high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we sit down with Wes Scantlin, frontman of Puddle of Mudd, to talk about the band’s brand-new album Kiss the Machine. Wes opens up about the inspiration behind the record, the evolution of their sound, and what fans can expect from this latest chapter in their rock journey. He also shares details about upcoming tour dates, what life on the road looks like today, and how performing live continues to fuel his passion for music. Fans can check out tour dates, merch, and more at: Puddle of Mudd Want to hear the latest music? Watch the new single “Free” here: Puddle Of Mudd - Free Wes and Gentry dive into everything from the roots of rock music to Wes’s upbringing and how being “country at heart” shaped his style. He reflects on learning guitar in a time before YouTube, where passion, repetition, and raw dedication were the only tools, and how that old-school grind still influences his approach today. From the rise of Puddle of Mudd to the future of rock, this episode is packed with stories, attitude, and authenticity. Don’t miss it. | 16m 53s | ||||||
| 3/24/26 | ![]() Andrew McCarthy: The Brat Pack, Weekend at Bernie’s, and the Truth About Friendship | In this thoughtful and nostalgic episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we welcome actor, director, and award-winning travel writer Andrew McCarthy. Best known for his roles in iconic 80s films like Pretty in Pink and Weekend at Bernie’s, Andrew joins Gentry to discuss his new book, Who Needs Friends: An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America. In the book, Andrew takes a deeply personal and introspective look at what friendship means, especially among men, traveling across the country to explore connection, vulnerability, and the challenges of maintaining relationships over time.Get your copy here: Who Needs Friends Andrew and Gentry also dive into the legacy of the Brat Pack, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most defining eras in film. He reflects on the cultural impact of 80s movies, his experience filming Weekend at Bernie’s, and how that era continues to influence entertainment today. The conversation turns deeper as they explore the truth about friendship, how it evolves with age, and why it’s often harder, but more important than ever, to maintain meaningful connections. From Hollywood nostalgia to real-life insight, this episode is a must-listen for fans of classic cinema and anyone interested in the bonds that shape our lives. | 16m 41s | ||||||
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| 3/12/26 | ![]() Marlon Wayans Talks Scary Movie 6, Family Comedy Royalty & Crossing Every Line | In this hilarious and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian, actor, and writer Marlon Wayans joins Gentry to talk about everything from stand-up comedy to the return of one of the most iconic parody franchises ever made. Marlon is currently on the road with his Wild Child Tour, bringing his fearless comedy and storytelling to audiences around the country. Fans can find tour dates and grab tickets here: https://www.marlonwayans.com/live-shows The conversation also dives into the highly anticipated Scary Movie 6, which Marlon helped bring to life alongside the legendary Wayans comedy legacy. He shares what it was like writing and developing the new film, how the creative process works behind the scenes, and why fans of the original films are going to love what’s coming next. Scary Movie 6 is scheduled to hit theaters on June 5, 2026, and fans will be able to watch it in theaters upon release. Marlon and Gentry also geek out over their favorite horror movies, talk about the shows and sitcoms the Wayans family grew up loving, and discuss the grind and excitement of life on the road performing stand-up night after night. Along the way, Marlon even opens up about his golf game, life lessons from comedy, and how staying creative keeps him energized. From behind-the-scenes movie stories to wild stand-up tour moments, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and classic Marlon Wayans energy. Don’t miss it. | 13m 09s | ||||||
| 3/5/26 | ![]() Alfonso Ribeiro: The Show Must Go On — From Fresh Prince to AFV and Life After Loss | In this fun-filled episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actor and television host Alfonso Ribeiro joins Gentry to talk about the enduring success of America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV), the longest-running primetime entertainment show in ABC history. Alfonso shares what it’s like hosting the iconic show that celebrates the funniest real-life moments caught on camera. New episodes of America’s Funniest Home Videos air Sundays on ABC, and fans can watch clips and learn more about the show here:https://www.afv.com/ Got a hilarious video? Alfonso explains how viewers can submit their own clips for a chance to be featured on the show—and even win serious prize money. Upload your funniest video here:https://www.afv.com/upload — where weekly winners can take home $20,000 and compete for a $100,000 grand prize. Beyond AFV, the conversation dives into Alfonso’s television career and the legacy of the show’s past host Bob Saget, whose humor helped define the early years of the series. Alfonso also reflects on his time on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, sharing memories of working alongside the late James Avery, beloved by fans as Uncle Phil. The discussion also turns emotional as Alfonso talks about the recent passing of James Van Der Beek, opening up about their friendship and the impact James had on those who knew him. From classic TV memories to viral videos and heartfelt stories from Hollywood, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and meaningful reflections. Don’t miss this conversation with one of television’s most recognizable personalities. | 14m 57s | ||||||
| 2/27/26 | ![]() Matt Rife: The Self-Bet That Built an Empire on touring and paranormal | In this laugh-filled episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian Matt Rife sits down with Gentry to talk about life, laughter, and what it really means to pursue comedy full throttle. Matt is currently out on his Stay Golden tour, bringing his sharp wit and electric stage presence to audiences everywhere. Want to catch him live? Get tour dates and tickets here: Stay Golden Tour Matt opens up about what touring life is like — the highs, the travel, the crowds, and the unexpected moments that keep him energized show after show. He also shares his honest perspective on growing up and performing, including how he didn’t peak in high school (despite what anyone might’ve thought) and how that shaped his drive to succeed. The conversation turns heartfelt as Matt talks about his connection with the late Ralphie May, one of comedy’s most beloved and influential performers, and how that friendship and mentorship helped him grow both as a comedian and a person. Matt’s love for comedy shines throughout, as he reflects on what keeps him passionate about performing, writing new material, and connecting with audiences night after night. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode offers laughs, inspiration, and a deeper look at one of comedy’s brightest voices on the rise. | 10m 38s | ||||||
| 2/24/26 | ![]() Whitney Cummings: From Postpartum to Power Moves — Roseanne, Big Baby Tour & Bold Jokes | In this candid and hilarious episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, stand-up superstar Whitney Cummings joins Gentry to talk about life, laughter, and everything in between. Whitney is currently on the road with her new comedy run, The Big Baby Tour — a bold, honest, and uproarious set that fans won’t want to miss. For tour dates and tickets, visit: https://www.whitneycummings.com/tour Whitney opens up about the profound changes she’s experienced since becoming a mother, including how post-partum life has influenced her perspective on comedy, relationships, and the sheer unpredictability of life. She talks about finding humor in the everyday, how her comedy has evolved since major milestones, and how becoming a mom has reshaped what she brings to the stage. The conversation also touches on some of the big topics Whitney has explored over the years — including her thoughts on the Epstein files, the role of AI in creative work, and reflections on her past specials and what she’s learned from them. She brings her sharp wit and unapologetic honesty to every topic, from personal growth to the challenges and joys of performing for audiences around the world. Fans will also get a behind-the-scenes look at some of her most talked-about bits and how she builds material that resonates — all delivered in Whitney’s signature blend of intelligence, edge, and heart. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering her work, this episode is an unforgettable mix of laughter, insight, and real talk with one of comedy’s most compelling voices. | 19m 10s | ||||||
| 1/22/26 | ![]() Bert Kreischer: No Shirt, No Filter, No Regrets | In this laugh-packed episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, legendary comedian Bert Kreischer joins Gentry to talk about his brand-new Netflix comedy series Free Bert a wildly entertaining look at Bert’s life on the road, his family, and the absurd, hilarious moments that make him one of the most beloved voices in comedy today. Check out Free Bert on Netflix here: Free Bert Bert and Gentry dig into some of the most memorable stories from his journey to stand-up success, including how Rolling Stone famously “discovered” him while he was a student at Florida State long before comedy became his full-time hustle. They also talk about Bert’s unexpected and hilarious friendship with Rob Lowe, how that relationship came to be, and how it continues to surprise him. Along the way, Bert reflects on what made him fall in love with stand-up comedy, how he hones his craft, and why storytelling even the outrageous stories is at the heart of what he does. From wild college tales to life on tour, this episode is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and totally Bert perfect for comedy fans and curious listeners alike. | 15m 43s | ||||||
| 12/16/25 | ![]() Jimmy Jam: The Prince Years, the Janet Era, and the Making of a Legacy | During this holiday season, Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas continues its focus on giving back, and this week we’re honored to welcome legendary songwriter, producer, and philanthropist Jimmy Jam. This marks the second week in a row where we’re spotlighting guests connected to charitable causes that make a real difference during the holidays. Jimmy joins Gentry to promote 100 Billion Meals, a global initiative working to fight hunger and food insecurity around the world. The mission is simple but powerful: provide meals to communities in need and help ensure that families don’t go hungry—especially during the holiday season.Learn more or get involved here: https://www.100billionmeals.org/ Beyond philanthropy, the conversation dives deep into music history and creativity. Jimmy shares stories from his early days auditing tracks for Prince, and reflects on his legendary collaborations with Janet Jackson and Michael Jackson—including how trust, chemistry, and musical instinct helped shape some of the most iconic records of all time. He also opens up about his favorite chord progressions, how emotion drives great songwriting, and his thoughtful perspective on AI and the future of music—what excites him, what concerns him, and how technology should serve creativity rather than replace it. This episode blends generosity, legacy, and innovation—making it a perfect listen during the holidays and beyond. | 24m 12s | ||||||
| 12/11/25 | ![]() Marlo Thomas: Inside the Miracles of St. Jude | In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actress, author, and longtime advocate Marlo Thomas sits down with Gentry to talk about her life’s work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — the Memphis‑based pediatric research and treatment center that’s changing the face of childhood cancer care. Marlo shares why St. Jude is so close to her heart and how the hospital’s mission — ensuring that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food — continues to give children a real chance to survive and thrive against life‑threatening illnesses. She discusses breakthroughs in research, the importance of compassionate care, and how the legacy of her father, entertainer Danny Thomas, continues to drive progress and hope for families around the world. St. Jude+1 Throughout the conversation, Marlo and Gentry also talk about her own creative life — from her early entertainment work to her advocacy, the ways music and family shaped her, and unforgettable moments that shaped her commitment to service. If you’re moved by Marlo’s story and want to make a difference, you can support St. Jude’s lifesaving mission here: Donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/give.html. Your contribution helps advance pediatric cancer research, provide top‑notch care at no cost to families, and give hope to children fighting for their lives. St. Jude This episode is a celebration of compassion, courage, and the joy of helping families face the toughest battles — and one you won’t want to miss. | 13m 07s | ||||||
| 12/4/25 | ![]() Shaun Cassidy: From Teen Idol to TV Legend — And the Stories He’s Never Told | In this nostalgic and revealing episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we sit down with singer‑actor legend Shaun Cassidy as he promotes his upcoming “Road to Us” tour. Want to catch a show? Check out tour dates and ticket info here: ShaunCassidy.com/live‑shows Shaun opens up about growing up in a household filled with award‑winning actors — with show business being more than just a dream, but a family legacy. He recalls the whirlwind of success at a young age: the whirlwind popularity, the pressure, and how in 1978 he won “Best New Artist” at the height of his fame — a time when his date to the awards ceremony was none other than Carrie Fisher, adding a uniquely Hollywood twist to his teen‑stardom story. Throughout the episode, Shaun reflects on the ups and downs of early fame, how it shaped him as a performer and as a person, and what motivated him to hit the road again now. With laughs, memories, and honest reflections on the music business — this conversation is a must-listen for fans of classic pop‑rock, celebrity stories, and real talk about growing up in the spotlight. | 17m 04s | ||||||
| 11/18/25 | ![]() Chris Matthews: Reveals Untold Stories from Washington’s Back Rooms | In this wide-ranging episode, American political commentator, retired talk-show host, and author Chris Matthews joins Gentry to discuss his new book, Lessons from Bobby: Ten Reasons Robert F. Kennedy Still Matters. Matthews lays out why RFK’s moral courage, coalition-building, and willingness to risk political capital still resonate—and what those lessons mean for the country now. Grab the book here: Buy Lessons from Bobby. Simon & Schuster Beyond the book, Chris shares a remarkable story from his younger years hitchhiking across Africa, then pivots to an unflinching conversation about the Kennedy legacy—with a special focus on Bobby. He and Gentry also unpack today’s political flashpoints: the new New York mayor and Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, the evolving crises between the U.S., Israel, and Palestine, and the brutal realities of the Russia–Ukraine war. It’s candid, timely, and steeped in history—an essential listen for anyone who cares about American politics and the ideas that still shape it. | 19m 15s | ||||||
| 11/11/25 | ![]() Marlon Wayans: The Wild Child of Comedy on Family, Fame & Fearlessness | In this high‑energy episode, Marlon Wayans joins Gentry Thomas to give fans the full scoop on his nationwide stand‑up tour — the “Wild Child Tour.” Want to catch him live? Click here for dates and locations: MarlonWayans.com/live‑showsHe shares stories about what inspired the tour, how he crafts his live sets, and what audiences can expect from a night with Marlon. The conversation digs into Marlon’s early days in comedy and film, including his breakthrough roles in Scary Movie, White Chicks, and his beginnings on In Living Color. He also opens up about life’s more serious struggles—watching his older brother deal with crack addiction, learning lessons in brotherhood and responsibility, and how personal pain has shaped his funny, unfiltered voice. Marlon shares one of the wildest stories in his career: when singer Macy Gray angrily jumped on stage at one of his shows over a joke—what went down, how he handled it, and what he learned from it. Family remains at the center of everything. He discusses his relationship with his brothers and how they influenced each other creatively, and what family legacy means in the Wayans clan. This conversation is raw, hilarious, and deeply human—filled with laughter, life lessons, and the kind of behind‑the‑scenes honesty you don’t always get from a comedy star. Don’t miss it. | 14m 46s | ||||||
| 10/31/25 | ![]() Abby Phillip: Jesse Jackson, Trump Parallels & the Fight for Black Political Power | In this incisive episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, CNN anchor Abby Phillip joins us to discuss her powerful new book, A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power. Dive deep into the extraordinary story of civil‑rights leader Jesse Jackson, his historic presidential campaigns in the 1980s, and how his vision reshaped American politics. Buy the book here: A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power Abby and Gentry explore how Jackson’s strategies—and his underrated influence—mirror present‑day dynamics with figures across the political spectrum. They analyze how extremists and politicians alike believe they’re right in their missions, and why understanding that truth is critical. The conversation also tackles one of the most critical issues of our time: evolving diplomacy between the U.S., Israel and Palestine, and the high‑stakes role debate and the free press still play in democracy. Abby reflects on her role at CNN, the responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized climate, and how the integrity of the story matters now more than ever. Tune in for an in‑depth, thought‑provoking discussion on power, politics, race, and media—only on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas. | 17m 36s | ||||||
| 10/28/25 | ![]() Sydney Sweeney: The Fighter, The Star, The Talk of Hollywood | In this dynamic episode, Gentry Thomas sits down with actress Sydney Sweeney, who’s taking center stage in her latest role as boxing legend Christy Martin in the new biopic Christy. Sydney opens up about the intense physical and emotional preparation that went into portraying a real-life champion, sharing how her childhood background in kickboxing helped fuel the performance. The conversation dives into her role on Euphoria, the kinds of characters she gravitates toward, and her love for playing complex, driven women. She also reveals which sport she was best at growing up, the music that pumps her up before a fight scene, and what it’s like stepping into a role inspired by real-life grit. Gentry and Sydney talk about the making of Christy, her chemistry with the cast, and how stepping into the world of combat sports shaped her perspective on storytelling. This episode is full of punch—from action and heart to insight and inspiration. Don't miss it! Get tickets to see Christy Here --> Buy Tickets | 9m 33s | ||||||
| 10/22/25 | ![]() Jake Tapper on Race Against Terror: Secret Missions, Presidents, and the Fight for Truth | In this riveting episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, veteran journalist and CNN anchor Jake Tapper joins Gentry to discuss his powerful new book, Race Against Terror: Chasing an Al Qaeda Killer at the Dawn of the Forever War. This gripping true story follows the incredible global hunt for a terrorist who confessed to killing American soldiers—and how the justice system scrambled to respond. Get your copy here: Buy Race Against Terror Jake and Gentry dive into the evolution of counter‑terrorism strategy, analyzing how different U.S. presidents have confronted extremist threats and why every radical believes their mission is justified. They also discuss what it’s like to moderate presidential debates and the heavy responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized media culture. Tune in for an intense, thoughtful conversation on global security, democracy, and the critical role of a free press in safeguarding our future. | 13m 11s | ||||||
| 10/7/25 | ![]() Henry Winkler on his Happy Days, Robin Williams, Laughter & Starting Over | In this delightful and heartfelt episode, Henry Winkler joins Gentry Thomas to talk about his new children’s book, Detective Duck: The Mystery at Emerald Pond. With warmth and enthusiasm, Winkler shares how the book was born, what kids and families can look forward to in this adventure, and the joy he finds in crafting stories for young imaginations. You can get your copy here: Detective Duck: The Mystery at Emerald Pond The two also explore Henry’s long and celebrated career. He reflects on his time on Happy Days, recounting stories from behind the scenes that shaped both his life and the legendary show. Winkler discusses his friendship with Robin Williams, offering personal memories about working with him and the impact Robin had on his life and art. Additionally, Henry talks about his more recent projects, including his show Hazardous History, where he continues to merge education and entertainment. Through stories, laughter, and insight, this conversation highlights Winkler’s enduring love for storytelling in all its forms. Don’t miss this conversation with one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures — only on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas. | 11m 18s | ||||||
| 10/2/25 | ![]() Kathie Lee Gifford remembers Regis, Reagan and how Trump saved her life | In this heartfelt episode, Kathie Lee Gifford joins Gentry Thomas to talk about her new song, “I Knew It Would Be You,” written as a tribute for the movie Reagan. She opens up about how the song came to life, what it means to her, and how music has shaped her through every phase of her life. They also discuss her deep friendship and on‑air chemistry with Regis Philbin, how she believes a dramatic moment in her life was saved with the help of Donald Trump, and her lifelong relationship with faith, storytelling, and the power of melody. Listen to “I Knew It Would Be You” here:Listen on streaming platforms / buy the song — check your favorite music service for availability. This is a warm, intimate look at a life lived in song, faith, love, and persistence. | 19m 41s | ||||||
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21 placements across 19 markets.
Chart Positions
21 placements across 19 markets.

























