In this inspiring holiday edition of Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, actor, comedian, and philanthropist Kel Mitchell joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to share his heart for giving—just in time for Giving Tuesday.

Famous for his iconic roles on All That and Kenan & Kel, Kel now uses his platform to uplift others through his work with World Vision, the Christian humanitarian organization helping vulnerable families around the world. He shares how partnering with World Vision helped him deepen his passion for service, and how their Gift Catalog makes it easy for families to give meaningfully this season.

Kel also discusses his new feel-good reality show Play It Forward: Game On, where he surprises youth sports teams in need with emotional makeovers and game-changing donations.

• Why World Vision?
  Kel breaks down what drew him to the organization during the pandemic, and why their commitment to faith, clean water, emergency aid, and child sponsorship resonates with him deeply.

• How the Gift Catalog Works
  With over 100 meaningful gifts, donors can give goats, clean water, food kits, and more to families in need—both internationally and right here in the U.S.

• Creating a Culture of Giving at Home
  Kel shares how reviewing the catalog with his own kids helps teach gratitude and compassion during the holidays.

• Making an Impact with “Play It Forward”
  Kel’s latest Nickelodeon series brings emotional, life-changing surprises to under-resourced youth teams. With help from Dick’s Sporting Goods, he outfits gyms, provides gear, and celebrates hardworking coaches and players.

• Faith, Mental Health & Letting Go
  Kel shares his own spiritual perspective and the powerful lesson of “renewing your mind daily”—letting go of yesterday to embrace purpose today.

“Be the reason someone smiles today—and find the joy in everything.”
— Kel Mitchell

“You might be hearing this for a reason. Maybe you’ve wanted to give but didn’t know how. This is your moment.”
— Kel Mitchell on Giving Tuesday

“Spread love like confetti.”
— Kel Mitchell

“Yesterday is gone. What are you doing today? Let’s get it.”
— Kel Mitchell on renewing your mind daily

“We’re not just surprising teams with equipment—we’re telling stories, lifting spirits, and investing in futures.”
— Kel Mitchell on Play It Forward

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization helping children, families, and communities tackle the causes of poverty and injustice in nearly 100 countries. This Giving Tuesday, they encourage families to make a tangible difference through their Gift Catalog, featuring gifts like:

• 🐐 Goats & chickens for farming families

• 💧 Clean water systems

• 🧺 Emergency food kits for families in crisis

• 📚 Child sponsorships

• 🍎 Fresh produce for children in the U.S.

👉 Learn more or donate: worldvision.org

• 📅 Airs: Wednesdays at 5 PM EST

• 📍 Network: Nickelodeon & Paramount+

• 🎯 Format: Kel surprises under-resourced youth teams with new gear, upgraded gyms, and heartfelt encouragement

• 💥 Bonus: Kel goes undercover and brings laughs and tears in every episode

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly viewing that inspires service, gratitude, and community

“Renew your mind daily. Don't stay stuck in what happened yesterday—God made you for a purpose.”

• Website & Merch: kelmitchell.com (if available)

• Social: @IAmKelMitchell (Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook)

• Show Info: Check out Play It Forward: Game On on Nickelodeon & Paramount+

✨ Topics Covered:💬 Notable Quotes:🧡 About World Vision:📺 About Play It Forward: Game On🧭 Final Life Lesson from Kel Mitchell:📲 Connect with Kel:

In this multi-generational, heartwarming conversation, legendary Monkee Micky Dolenz and his daughter Ami Dolenz join Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to share the story behind their new children’s book: Lalu Toot-Toot.

Micky brings his lifelong fascination with science, anthropology, and storytelling into focus with the creation of his "anthro-mythology" series, reimagining pivotal moments in early human history. Ami, an actress-turned-illustrator, brings the book to life with vibrant watercolor illustrations, transforming a bedtime tale into a beautifully crafted children’s story.

Together, they discuss their collaboration, family memories, and how imagination and love of learning are at the heart of their creative work.

• The Origin of Lalu Toot-Toot
  Micky reveals the story’s spark: a fascination with early human history and the discovery of the oldest known musical instrument.

• Anthro-Mythology Explained
  Fictionalizing key moments in prehistory—like the invention of music—told through the eyes of a curious young boy named Lalu and his musical bird friend, Fleet.

• Ami's Artistic Process
  How Ami translated her father’s story into watercolor illustrations as part of a school project—sparking the idea to turn it into a published book.

• Memories of Storytelling
  The pair recall “Harold and Agatha,” Micky’s off-the-cuff stories told during summer visits that planted the seed for Ami’s passion for children’s literature.

• Collaborating as Father and Daughter
  They talk about their creative rhythm, mutual respect, and how working on Lalu Toot-Toot strengthened their bond.

• What Makes a Great Children’s Book
  Micky and Ami reflect on the importance of visuals, pacing, imagination—and avoiding scenes where the bear gets killed before bedtime.

“If you can show it in a picture, don’t say it in the words.”
— Micky Dolenz

“It started as a school project. I needed something to illustrate—and my dad had the perfect story.”
— Ami Dolenz

“It was the end of summer, and the end of the story… both made me sad.”
— Ami Dolenz on childhood memories with her dad

“The Monkees wasn’t a band—it was a musical comedy show. Like Glee… just 40 years earlier.”
— Micky Dolenz

• Title: Lalu Toot-Toot

• Audience: Ages 4–10

• Story Summary: A young boy named Lalu is teased for mimicking birds instead of hunting like the other dwellers—until his flute playing unexpectedly brings harmony and peace to the group.

• Themes: Creativity, individuality, discovery, the roots of music

• Illustrations: Watercolor by Ami Dolenz

• Perfect for: Bedtime reading, classroom discussions, and curious young minds

Ami: “Be gracious. What’s inside matters more than what’s outside.”
Micky: “Get a good lawyer… and remember, life is a cruel teacher—it gives the test before the lesson.”

🔍 Episode Highlights:💬 Notable Quotes:🎨 Book Overview:🧭 Final Life Lessons from the Dolenz Family:

In this inspirational and heartfelt episode, Cedella Marley, daughter of global icon Bob Marley, joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley for a powerful conversation about purpose, passion, and preserving her father’s legacy while carving her own.

As an author, entrepreneur, recording artist, philanthropist, and CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, Cedella shares the values that have shaped her life, the importance of storytelling across generations, and how music, culture, and sports can be used as tools for empowerment—especially for young women.

She also dives into her work as Global Ambassador for the Jamaica Women’s National Football Team, her successful fashion brand, and the Marley family’s continuing mission to uplift people worldwide.

• Carrying the Marley Legacy Forward
  Cedella reflects on what it means to be Bob Marley’s daughter and how she strives to live his message through action, not just words.

• Marley Family Business & Vision
  As CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, she oversees licensing, branding, and global philanthropy—ensuring the Marley message of peace, love, and unity stays alive for new generations.

• Empowering Through Football
  Learn how Cedella revived and funded the Jamaican Women’s National Football Team (“The Reggae Girlz”), helping them reach the FIFA World Cup and inspiring women across the Caribbean and beyond.

• Music Meets Message
  Cedella discusses her own recording career, her approach to songwriting, and how she fuses traditional reggae with fresh, global sounds to keep the movement going.

• Children’s Books & Legacy Literature
  From One Love to Every Little Thing, Cedella has adapted her father’s most beloved lyrics into children’s stories—teaching kindness, equality, and community from the earliest age.

• Business with Purpose
  Cedella opens up about running Marley Natural and her fashion line, both driven by ethical values, sustainability, and cultural pride.

• Spiritual Center & Personal Growth
  What keeps Cedella grounded? Faith, family, and a clear vision of service—something instilled by both her mother and father.

“I’m not just preserving my father’s legacy—I’m building on it, every single day.”
— Cedella Marley

“Legacy isn’t about the name—it’s about the impact. If you’re not helping people, what are you doing?”
— Cedella Marley

“When I saw those girls training with nothing, I knew I had to step in. That’s what family—and being Jamaican—is all about.”
— Cedella Marley on the Reggae Girlz

“Music, sports, and storytelling are the most powerful ways we have to shape the future. Let’s use them wisely.”
— Cedella Marley

• One Love – A bestselling children’s book adaptation of Bob Marley’s iconic song

• Every Little Thing – Teaches peace and reassurance through colorful storytelling

• 52 Ways to Be More Like Marley – A year of wisdom, mindset, and action

• Redemption – Cedella’s reflections on social justice, spirituality, and healing

• Marley Natural – A premium cannabis and wellness brand

• Catch A Fire Clothing – Sustainable, roots-inspired fashion

Cedella’s passionate advocacy helped revive the Jamaica Women’s National Football Team after they were defunded. Under her leadership and personal financial support, the Reggae Girlz qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup—becoming the first Caribbean nation to do so.

Her work has helped spark a movement of women’s sports empowerment across the region.

• 💻 Website: www.cedellamarley.com

• 📚 Books Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Marley Family Store

• 📲 Social Media: @cedellamarley

• ⚽ Support the Reggae Girlz: jamaicafootballfederation.com

🔍 Inside the Episode:💬 Notable Quotes:📚 Cedella’s Books & Projects:⚽ Giving Back Through the Reggae Girlz:🌱 Where to Follow and Support:

In this entertaining and insightful episode, Rusty Austin—veteran television producer turned children’s book author—joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to reflect on his 40-year career in Hollywood, including behind-the-scenes stories from iconic shows like Survivor, Hell’s Kitchen, and Nanny 911.

Rusty shares how his experience shaping real-life storytelling for millions has translated into his new purpose: creating playful, poetic children’s books that encourage creativity and self-expression. His latest release, Awesome Bird: The Pelican, is a poetic tribute to nature, illustrated by middle school students and filled with humor and charm.

Whether you’re a fan of classic reality TV or curious about the craft of writing for children, this episode delivers equal parts nostalgia and inspiration.

Book Title: Awesome Bird: The Pelican
By: Rusty Austin
Audience: Children ages 6–10 (and parents, too!)
Highlights:

• Short, engaging 10- to 15-word poems

• Nonlinear format (great for reluctant readers)

• Do-It-Yourself pages for kids to write and draw

• Illustrated entirely by 7th and 8th grade students

• Inspired by Rusty’s real-life school visits

• The Reality of Reality TV
  Rusty reveals the “400-to-1” shooting ratio on Hell’s Kitchen and how raw footage becomes riveting storytelling.

• Coffee-Fueled Chaos on Nanny 911
  Find out how late-arriving executives, oversized Starbucks orders, and 26-day work weeks defined Fox’s race to beat Super Nanny to air.

• From Survivor to Storybooks
  Learn why Rusty traded cameras for crayons—and how working with children reignited his creative spark.

• Why Writing for Kids Is Harder Than It Looks
  Rusty explains why brevity is key, and how keeping poems under 15 words keeps young readers engaged and entertained.

• How the Classroom Became His Creative Studio
  After visiting a local teacher via DonorsChoose, Rusty invited middle school students to illustrate his next book, leading to dozens of excited contributors and their work published in print.

• On the Future of TV & Content Creation
  Rusty shares an honest take on the changing entertainment landscape, where local programming and digital-first content may replace traditional network TV—and why it’s both a challenge and an opportunity for independent creators.

“In reality TV, we shoot the show, then write the script. In scripted TV, it’s the other way around.”
— Rusty Austin

“I didn’t want to be just another author—I wanted kids to be co-creators. That’s what makes this book special.”
— Rusty Austin on involving student artists

“This too shall pass. Forget the bad, remember the good. That’s something you learn after four decades in television.”
— Rusty Austin

“Local TV will survive like radio did. But creators need to think differently—and act like entrepreneurs.”
— Rusty Austin on the future of TV

• Nonlinear design—flip to any page and start reading

• Encourages creativity with write-your-own pages

• Hilarious animal characters like pelicans, toucans, and axolotls

• Great for classroom inspiration and parent-child reading time

Awesome Bird: The Pelican
Get your copy at RustyAustin.com or wherever books are sold.
Perfect for classrooms, libraries, and parents looking for fun, educational reads.

“This too shall pass. The toughest deadlines, the hardest edits—it all fades. What matters is doing something meaningful with your time. For me, that’s making kids smile.”

📚 Featured Project:🔍 Inside the Episode:💬 Notable Quotes:👦 Why Kids (and Parents) Love His Books:📚 Available Now:📌 Closing Thought from Rusty:

In this electric and passionate episode, producer, guitarist, and mixing engineer Steve Gordon MIA joins Greg Hannaand Neil Haley to share how decades of working behind the scenes with music legends inspired him to finally step forward with his own hard rock project.

Steve dives into the story behind his new track “Broken”, how he recorded guitars through a bathroom amp for natural reverb, and how the project went viral in Europe and South America—despite starting “just for fun.”

With a name now synonymous with high-level mixing for icons like Prince, Natalie Cole, Morgan Wallen, Aretha Franklin, Kanye West, and more, Steve is stepping into his own spotlight with raw emotion, undeniable energy, and unmatched experience.

• Behind-the-scenes magic on “Broken”
  From live takes to bathroom reverb, Steve shares how he created his biggest-sounding guitar tone yet.

• The meaning of MIA in Steve Gordon MIA
  Hint: It’s not Miami. It’s not Missing In Action. It’s all about brand visibility and instant searchability.

• Mixing Half of a Morgan Wallen Album
  Steve shares the wild story of replacing one of the top 5 mixers in the world for Morgan Wallen’s 25th Anniversaryalbum—until he walked away on principle.

• Decades of Legendary Collaborations
  You’ll hear how Steve worked with Prince, Aretha Franklin, Kanye West, Al Green, Natalie Cole, and even mixed for Frank Zappa and Jeff Beck–all while still remaining hungry and humble.

• Why He Built a Personal Studio Empire
  Tired of waiting on others, Steve taught himself to engineer and mix, running his own sessions, building relationships, and never needing a 9–5 job—ever.

• Why “Broken” is Just the Beginning
  With a new wave of global interest, a killer support team (PR, radio, and social), and total creative control, Steve is now building a major-label-quality project that he owns 100%.

🎵 “Broken” – Available now on Spotify, Apple Music, and more
🔥 Recorded live in 2 takes
🎤 Featuring Ray West (Spread Eagle) on vocals
🥁 Drums by Ricky (Shinedown drum tech)
🎸 Guitar tracked through bathroom reverb!

“I didn’t plan this. I did it for fun—and then it went viral. So I leaned in.”
— Steve Gordon

“All I wanted to do was play guitar. The Beatles hit me, and that was it.”
— Steve Gordon on discovering music

“I built my brand on this: You can find me in 3 seconds. I’m the only ‘Steve Gordon MIA’ on planet Earth.”
— Steve Gordon

“I’d rather lose money and be proud of my name on a record than rush a job.”
— Steve Gordon on walking away from Morgan Wallen’s last five tracks

“I've never worked a 9–5 in my life. I’ve made music every day since I was 12.”
— Steve Gordon

“I didn’t need a record label to get Natalie Cole, Prince, or Aretha. I got in by proving I was worth it.”
— Steve Gordon

What’s the most important thing in life you’ve ever learned?

Steve Gordon:
“Spend your life doing what you love. The money will follow. If not, you’ll spend your life unhappy. I knew from the Beatles on Ed Sullivan—I was born for this.”

• 🎧 Streaming:
  Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music

• 🔍 Search This Name:
  Steve Gordon MIA
  (Don’t forget the “MIA” — it’s what makes him searchable!)

• 🔥 Singles to Check Out:

  • “Broken” (feat. Ray West)

  • “We Go to War” – Peaked at #18 on the Metal Contraband Chart

  • “Pharaoh Lives” – Instrumental debut; hit #8 in Germany (Metallica was #1!)

🎶 What You’ll Hear:🔊 Featured Track:💬 Notable Quotes:📚 Greg’s Signature Question:📀 Where to Find Steve Gordon MIA’s Music:

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Greg Hanna welcomes the cast and crew of Parallel Process, a poignant new stage play exploring family estrangement, PTSD, and the deep emotional toll of war.

Veteran actor Alan McRae, stage and screen performer Christine Capitan, and assistant director Cora Altman join Greg to discuss what drew them to the project, the emotional weight of the material, and what audiences can expect from this powerful production set to run at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles.

Together, they explore the play’s themes of trauma, reconciliation, and healing—and how those stories remain deeply relevant today.

Parallel Process follows Dennis, a psychologist and Vietnam veteran, as he navigates unresolved trauma and a long-standing estrangement with his brother. With the help of his wife and a courageous confrontation of the past, Dennis is forced to face the emotional wounds he's carried for decades.

The story, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War’s lingering impact, is both timely and timeless—offering audiences a raw, relatable glimpse into grief, forgiveness, and the hope of reconnection.

• Alan McRae on stepping into the complex role of Dennis:
  “This role really challenged me. The writing was so strong, and the emotional depth forced me to revisit some very personal places in my own life.”

• Christine Capitan on her role as Dennis’ wife:
  “She’s a steadying force—a bridge between two estranged brothers. It’s a role that feels close to home for me.”

• Cora Altman on the casting and rehearsal process:
  “It’s been amazing to see everything click. Alan and Christine embody their characters so naturally—it’s been a joy to help bring this to life.”

• Emotional connection to the audience:
  The cast shares their hope that audience members will walk away inspired to reach out to estranged family, show more compassion, and reflect on the emotional impact of war on veterans and their families.

• Theater vs. Film & TV:
  Alan shares why theater remains his passion: “In theater, you live the story start to finish—every night. That’s something film doesn’t give you.”

“If even one person leaves the theater and calls a family member they’ve been distant from, we’ve done something right.”
— Alan McRae

“This play is full of raw emotion. It's timely, relevant, and reminds us that the effects of war are carried long after the battlefield.”
— Christine Capitan

“I've learned so much just watching these two work. The energy, the emotion—it’s so authentic.”
— Cora Altman

“Theater gives you a complete emotional arc. From lights up to final bow, you're living that story in real time.”
— Alan McRae

• Play: Parallel Process

• Written & Directed by: David Jette

• Venue: Odyssey Theatre Ensemble, Los Angeles

• Run Time: 6-week limited engagement

• Website for Tickets: www.parallelprocesstheplay.com

Each guest was asked what they hope the audience feels walking away from Parallel Process:

• Alan: A renewed desire to reconnect with family and heal past wounds

• Christine: Compassion for veterans and their families—and the quiet burdens they carry

• Cora: An understanding that every conflict has multiple sides and deserves empathy

🎟️ About the Play:🔍 Highlights from the Episode:💬 Notable Quotes:🎟️ Show Information:🙌 What the Cast Hopes You'll Take Away: