Explore every episode of the podcast Vanguard of Hollywood

Patrick Wayne is an actor and former chairman of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.  His more than four decade-long acting career includes roles in over 40 films, several of which paired Patrick with his legendary father, John Wayne.  Whether starring alongside his dad in such classics as McLintock! (1963) and Big Jake (1971), or swashbuckling his way through cult classics like 1977’s Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger, Patrick proved himself a captivating leading man with Old Hollywood class and charm.  Listen as Shannon and Patrick discuss his impressive acting career and legendary father.

Shannon is joined by acclaimed film historian, biographer, and interviewer Foster Hirsch to discuss the 1955 cult classic, The Night of the Hunter.  Listen as Foster and Shannon discuss the fascinating origins of the film, cast performances, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and religious allegory and faith-based themes that make The Night of the Hunter an enduring classic.

Nancy Kwan is an actress, author, dancer, screenwriter, and filmmaker.  With films such as 1960’s The World of Suzie Wong and 1961’s Flower Drum Song, Nancy became Hollywood’s first Asian Superstar.  Her casting in roles specifically written for Asian actresses, and in non-race-specific roles, was unprecedented, changing the way moviegoers viewed the Asian community and creating more opportunities for Asians in the film industry.  Join Shannon and Nancy as they discuss Nancy’s extraordinary life and career, from her films to her friendship with Bruce Lee and what it’s like to be serenaded by Elvis Presley. And be sure to read Nancy's new book, The World of Nancy Kwan: A Memoir by Hollywood’s Asian Superstar, for Nancy’s full story.

In an incredible career that has spanned 60 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records worldwide, with songs ranging from romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and gospel. These records have earned him 64 gold albums, 35 platinum albums, four Grammy Award nominations, and a Golden Globe.  Among Engelbert’s hit songs are “The Last Waltz,” “A Man Without Love,” “Quando, Quando, Quando,” and 1967’s “Release Me,” which dominated the music charts for 56 weeks, beating out the Beatles’ “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields” for the number one position on the charts, and depriving the Beatles of their 13th consecutive No.1.  At 89 years old, Engelbert still performs around the world.  Join Shannon and Engelbert as they discuss his inspiring life, from his childhood in India to his early career struggles, to meeting the love of his life and becoming an international music star who still makes audiences swoon.  Don’t miss this charming conversation with the King of Romance himself.

Billy Gray is an actor, motorcycle speedway racer, and inventor.  You may know him best as Bud Anderson from the hit television show, Father Knows Best (1954-1960).  From his earliest film roles, Billy stood out as a kid actor who consistently brought great depth to the characters he created.  Whether playing Doris Day’s mischievous little brother in On Moonlight Bay (1951) and By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953), Dan Dailey’s wise-cracking son in The Girl Next Door (1953), or Michael Rennie’s trusted young ally in The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), Billy Gray never played the same character twice.  His uncanny ability to bring his roles to life underscored a talent developed well beyond his years. Listen as Shannon and Billy discuss his fascinating life in Hollywood, speedway racing, and innovation.

Sharon Baird is a dancer, singer, and actress.  You may know her best as one of Walt Disney’s original Mouseketeers on the classic television show, The Mickey Mouse Club.  As one of only nine Mouseketeers to appear on all three seasons of the show, Sharon proved herself to be the best dancer in the bunch.  Beginning her dance training at three years old, Sharon has danced with the likes of Mitzi Gaynor, Dean Martin, and Donald O’Connor.  Sharon has also used dance to bring to life countless characters, including the puppets of Sid and Marty Krofft on such television shows as H.R. Pufnstuf, and the title character of the 1986 cult classic, Ratboy.  Listen as Sharon and Shannon discuss Sharon’s remarkable Hollywood career and passion for dance.

As Private First Class Midge Riley in 1964’s Kissin’ Cousins, Cynthia Pepper holds the distinction of being one of Elvis Presley’s leading ladies.  In the film, Cynthia lived the dream of countless Elvis fans as she was chased by Elvis, sung to by Elvis, and kissed by Elvis.  Even more enviable, behind the scenes, Cynthia formed a true friendship with her legendary leading man.  Listen as Shannon and Cynthia discuss Cynthia’s time with Elvis, as well as her roles on countless classic television shows, including My Three Sons and The Addams Family.

Ann-Margret is a living legend.  From Bye Bye Birdie (1963) and Viva Las Vegas (1964) to Tommy (1975) and Grumpy Old Men (1993), from her Billboard charting music career to her show stopping TV specials, Ann-Margret’s multi-dimensional talent and charisma are unrivaled.  

Join Ann-Margret and Shannon as they discuss Ann-Margret’s beautiful relationship with her parents, her incredible career, the wonderful costars and friends she worked with -- Pat Boone, Lucille Ball, Dean Martin, and John Wayne, to name a few -- her continued support of our troops, and the faith and gratitude that form the remarkable foundation of this living legend. 

Tim Matheson’s Hollywood career spans nearly seven decades.  From working alongside Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda in 1968’s Yours, Mine and Ours, to his iconic role in the classic 1978 comedy Animal House, to the record-breaking hit Netflix series, Virgin River, Tim Matheson has done it all.  Listen as Shannon and Tim discuss Tim’s new book, Damn Glad to Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches, and what inspired Tim to write his book: the Classic Hollywood legends he was privileged to work with, and what he learned from them.

Reggio “The Hoofer” McLaughlin is a master tap dancer, teacher, and historian.  Reggio began his career as a musician, playing bass guitar for The Lost Generation and opening for such artists as Gladys Knight and the Pips and James Brown.  Reggio made the successful transition from musician to tap dancer.  He performs and teaches tap around the world, and has worked with countless tap legends, including Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, The Nicholas Brothers, Jimmy Slyde, and his mentor Ernest “Brownie” Brown.  Reggio’s immense contributions to preserving the art and tradition of tap have been richly recognized: In 2021, Reggio received the National Medal of Honor from the United States’ National Endowment of the Arts.  Listen as Reggio and Shannon discuss Reggio’s inspiring career, and what it’s like to be named a National Living Treasure.

Joy Harmon is a baker, actress, author, mother, and grandmother.  From her many television and film roles, you undoubtedly recognize Joy best as the beautiful blue-eyed blonde from the iconic car wash scene in the 1967 Paul Newman classic, Cool Hand Luke.  Joy left her acting career behind in 1973 to focus on raising her family, and along the way began a successful bakery, Aunt Joy’s Cakes, that serves individuals, cafes, and Hollywood studios.  Listen to be inspired by the faith, strength, and sweetness that, to quote the celebrated line from Cool Hand Luke, make Joy Harmon “a natural born world-shaker.”

Cissy Wellman is an actress, director, dancer, and author.  She is the daughter of the revered Classic Hollywood director, William Wellman, who directed such films as Wings (1927) and the original A Star is Born (1937).  Cissy had the rare opportunity to grow up among the biggest names from the Golden Age, and formed personal relationships with such legends as director Howard Hawks and John Wayne.  Cissy’s own career includes television roles on Charlie’s Angels, The Waltons, and Hart to Hart.  Her film credits include roles in Clint Eastwood’s The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976), Made Men (1999), and, most recently, in the 2024 film, Little Death, opposite David Schwimmer.  Listen as Cissy shares behind the scenes stories from her career, invaluable insights on the Classic Hollywood legends she knew, and what makes the Golden Age exceptional.

You probably know Beverly Washburn best as Lizabeth Searcy in the 1957 Disney classic, Old Yeller, or from the 1967 horror cult classic, Spider Baby, but Beverly’s film and television credits boast countless memorable performances.  This Emmy nominated actress has worked with such Classic Hollywood legends as Bing Crosby, Jimmy Stewart, Alan Ladd, Loretta Young, Lon Chaney, Jr., Jack Benny, Lou Costello, Barbara Stanwyck, and Frank Capra.  Beverly’s rare ability to cry on cue naturally was put to good use from the start of her career, and contributed to her reputation as one of the best kid actors of her generation.  Listen for all about Beverly’s remarkable career, and be inspired by her boundless kindness and gratitude.

Rusty Frank is a Lindy Hop (swing) dancer, tap dancer, choreographer, producer, teacher, and dance preservationist.  She is the author of the critically acclaimed book, TAP! The Greatest Tap Dance Stars and Their Stories, for which Rusty interviewed such tap luminaries as Ann Miller, Donald O’Connor, Shirley Temple, Gene Nelson, and The Nicholas Brothers.  Join Shannon and Rusty as they discuss Rusty’s book, dance career, the tap legends she got to know personally, and her remarkable recovery from a near-fatal accident.

Donna Loren was the quintessential “It” girl of the 1960’s who caught America’s eye as the one and only Dr. Pepper Girl.  But Donna held America’s interest with her impossibly beautiful singing voice.  From the Mickey Mouse Club to her roles in the beloved Beach Party films, TV’s Batman, The Monkees, and as a cast member of America’s first live rock n’ roll television show, Shindig, Donna Loren proved herself to be one of the most talented singers of her generation.  Listen as Donna shares all about her fascinating life and career.

Blonde and beautiful, you probably know Marta Kristen best as Judy Robinson in the beloved sci-fi classic television show, Lost in Space (1965-1968).  From her early years hiding from Nazis in an underground orphanage in Norway, to her versatile performances on the stage and screen, to her nearly 40-year marriage, and a children’s book Marta is currently writing and illustrating herself, the beauty of Marta Kristen literally radiates from within.  Listen to Shannon’s interview with Marta to be inspired by her extraordinary life.

Shannon joins Gene Kelly’s widow, film historian Patricia Ward Kelly, in the Gene Kelly Archives for this special interview.  As Gene’s wife and official biographer, Patricia brings a unique perspective to her work: No one knows Gene like Patricia, and she is the definitive source on all things relating to her legendary husband.  Listen as Patricia shares about her life with Gene, debunks several Singin’ in the Rain (1952) myths, and highlights Gene’s rich creative legacy in front of, and behind, the camera.

You probably know Paul Petersen best as Donna Reed's son on The Donna Reed Show, but Paul's show business career began as one of the original sixteen Mouseketeers. In addition to working with Hollywood Legends like Cary Grant and Sophia Loren, Paul also enjoyed a successful music career with Motown. But Paul is most proud of his work to better the lives of kid actors. Listen as Paul shares about his Hollywood career and inspiring work with his foundation, A Minor Consideration.

As one of the most featured child actors of the Golden Age, Scott Morrow has more than 95 television credits and 16 feature films to his name. From Peyton Place to An Affair to Remember and The Donna Reed Show, Scott worked with the best of the best. Listen as Scott shares highlights from his remarkable career, and memories of his sweet brother-sister relationship with Marilyn Monroe.

In this interview special, Shannon welcomes back film historian Foster Hirsch to discuss his new book, Hollywood and the Movies of the Fifties. Listen to discover which mogul saved Hollywood, if the blacklist could have been avoided, and what Jimmy Stewart and Marlon Brando have in common.

In this special episode, Shannon interviews Mimi Gibson, one of the most sought-after child actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. Mimi is best known as the voice of Lucky in 101 Dalmatians (1961) and as Cary Grant's daughter in Houseboat (1958). Listen as Mimi shares her stories and experiences from working during the most exciting time in movies and television, and her post-acting work to better the lives of today's working kids in Hollywood.

Classic baseball history and a thank you note written by Jackie Robinson inspire this episode about the importance of giving thanks.

Shannon offers a birthday tribute to comedian and actor Joe E. Brown, Hollywood's nicest guy

Paul Newman ages youthfully, Patricia Neal wins the Oscar, and Paul was not mean to Patricia. From 1963, it's Hud.

Was Paul Newman mean to Patricia Neal? Shannon's research reveals the truth and why a rumor has been accepted as fact for decades.

 Paul Newman Almost Fails in Hollywood, Orson Welles Hates the Method, Joanne Wins an Oscar, & the Newmans Put Their Marriage First. It's The Long, Hot Summer (1958).

Paul Newman goes to Yale, Sells Encyclopedias, Races Cars, Gets Better with Age, and Prefers Steak at Home.  Join Shannon for her birthday tribute to Paul Newman.

Was Vera-Ellen Anorexic in White Christmas (1954)? Here's what we know about Vera-Ellen's complicated relationship with food and body image.

Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question and recites one of her favorite Christmas stories: O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi"

Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question. The audio version of a video introduction and a film follows: Visit https://vanguardofhollywood.com/watch-meet-john-doe-1941/ to watch Shannon's introduction and stream Meet John Doe (1941) in its entirety

Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question and introduces the full Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of It's a Wonderful Life.

Listen to Vanguard of Hollywood daily this week for Christmas movie trivia, recipes that are delicious and budget-friendly, and some of Shannon's favorite Christmas stories.

Bette Davis Feuds with Joan Crawford, Does What No Makeup Artist Dares, and runs to the Hollywood Hills. Celebrating 60 years, it's Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?

This episode is the audio from a video introduction and a film.  Visit VanguardOfHollywood.com to watch Shannon's introduction and stream Charade (1963) in its entirety.  

https://vanguardofhollywood.com/watch-charade-1963/

A Rumor Casts a Shadow on the Legacy of Jimmy Stewart. Was Jimmy Stewart Racist? The Answer is No. Here's Why.

Lana Turner is the Definition of Movie Star, Loves Hot Sauce and Fashion, Goes Through Seven Husbands, is Saved by Her Daughter, & Can Make Anyone Laugh. It’s Shannon’s Birthday Tribute to Lana Turner.

Sidney Poitier Wins Best Actor, Is the Highest Paid Star in Hollywood, Goes Vegetarian, and Continues to Inspire with His Amazing Life Story. Join Shannon as she pays tribute to Sidney Poitier.

In this special episode, Vanguard of Hollywood ventures into video with the inspiring story of Jimmy Stewart and It's a Wonderful Life (1946).

Otto Preminger Goes Independent, Takes Down the Production Code Administration, Fights Censorship, & Doesn't Hold Back His Temper.  Film historian Foster Hirsch joins Shannon for a discussion of his gripping book, Otto Preminger: The Man Who Would Be King.

Doris Day Exudes Confidence, Heckles an Umpire, Wants to Be a Housewife, Talks to Me on the Phone, & Can Literally Do it All. Shannon introduces the latest Star Spotlight, Doris Day.

Greg Schreiner owns one of the largest private collections of Classic Hollywood costumes, including Marilyn Monroe’s screen worn and publicity gowns. In this interview special of Vanguard of Hollywood, Shannon and Greg discuss the priceless costumes in Greg’s collection that made Marilyn Monroe and the stars of Classic Hollywood great.

Dean Martin is a Man of Simple Snacks, Has Frank Sinatra's Back, Shows His Gratitude, and is Home for Dinner Every Night. This is Shannon's Minisode Special on Dean Martin.

In this special episode, Shannon interviews Terry Chester Shulman, author of Film’s First Family: The Untold Story of the Costellos. The groundbreaking film innovations of Maurice Costello and the fascinating lives of his daughters, Dolores and Helene, are discussed.

Katharine Hepburn MacGyvers a Sports Car, Ranks Higher than the Pope, Takes Care of Spencer Tracy, and Sidney Poitier is the Classiest Man Alive.  Shannon wraps up her Star Spotlight on Katharine Hepburn with 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner.

Jack Lemmon's Got Two Words for You, Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable are BFF's, and Jane Russell Puts Out One Hundred Fleeces.  It's the 50th Episode Special of Vanguard of Hollywood.

Katharine Hepburn Beats the Jungle with Bogie & Bacall, Steals the Show in Her Pants, Tackles Shakespeare, and Proves that Middle-Aged Actresses Rock. From 1951, it’s The African Queen.

Katharine Hepburn Meets Spencer Tracy, Pulls a Fast One on MGM, Wears Her Power Platforms, and Proves She’s Here to Stay. From 1942, it’s Woman of the Year.

Katharine Hepburn Survives an Actual Hurricane, Golfs with Howard Hughes, Flies with Jimmy Stewart, and Pulls Off the Most Epic Comeback in Hollywood History.  From 1940, it’s The Philadelphia Story.

Katharine Hepburn Wrangles a Leopard, Locksteps with Cary Grant, Learns the Circus Grip, And Sets Out to Prove She Isn’t a Has-Been.  From 1938, it's Bringing Up Baby.

Katharine Hepburn Paddles Her Own Canoe, Proves Her Resilience in Hollywood, Is as Elegant as Audrey and Grace, and May Just Walk Around the Set in Her Underpants.  Shannon introduces the latest Star Spotlight, Katharine Hepburn.