It's Halloween season! Matt and the crew go back out West to visit Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Hollywood, to prepare for part II of the horror conversation from earlier this season.  Adam Marcus and his producing partner (and real life partner) Debra Sullivan join the show to dicuss all things horror.  Marcus is best known for directing "Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday," and co-writing/producing with Sullivan various projects like "Texas Chainsaw" (2013), "Secret Santa" and "Conspiracy" (Val Kilmer).  Matt has some tricks and some treats up his sleeve, bringing Halloween into the mix, to discuss nostalgia, real life horrors with set divas, biggest fears and more.  They break the stigmas behind horror fans and the desire to create these frightening stories, and illustrate the soft, kindness and heart that is often overlooked.

It's Halloween season! Matt and the crew go back out West to visit Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Hollywood, to prepare for part II of the horror conversation from earlier this season. &nbsp;Adam Marcus and his producing partner (and real life partner) Debra Sullivan join the show to dicuss all things horror. &nbsp;Marcus is best known for directing "Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday," and co-writing/producing with Sullivan various projects like "Texas Chainsaw" (2013), "Secret Santa" and "Conspiracy" (Val Kilmer). &nbsp;Matt has some tricks and some treats up his sleeve, bringing Halloween into the mix, to discuss nostalgia, real life horrors with set divas, biggest fears and more. &nbsp;They break the stigmas behind horror fans and the desire to create these frightening stories, and illustrate the soft, kindness and heart that is often overlooked.

OH, The Horror II: Halloween & Hollywood

Less than 2 weeks out from the 2026 Midterm elections, front and center are attack ads from Republican candidates and PACs, making bogus claims like Dems forcing underage transgender surgeries, attempting to make the LGBTQ+ community the Boogey Man.  Zach Joseph, a US Navy veteran and current Director of the Ohio Pride PAC, sits down at the table to discuss the culture war, political tokenism and his hopes for the future.  Ohio Pride grades every bill and sitting politician for the state on their work towards or against true equality.  While most Americans are worried about the cost of groceries, gas and healthcare, we're seeing weaponization of homophobia and transphobia, creating fears of people in bathrooms and men in women's sports.  In Ohio, they're trying to push through a ban on Drag performances, and have never enshrined the right to gay marriage.  Meanwhile, the cost of living is through the roof, unemployment is up, and few people see a solid path towards retirement.  What's the "gay agenda" they're always touting?  It's simply equality...and maybe a rainbow sidewalk on the way to a Drag brunch...but they'll settle for basic equality.

Less than 2 weeks out from the 2026 Midterm elections, front and center are attack ads from Republican candidates and PACs, making bogus claims like Dems forcing underage transgender surgeries, attempting to make the LGBTQ+ community the Boogey Man. &nbsp;Zach Joseph, a US Navy veteran and current Director of the Ohio Pride PAC, sits down at the table to discuss the culture war, political tokenism and his hopes for the future. &nbsp;Ohio Pride grades every bill and sitting politician for the state on their work towards or against true equality. &nbsp;While most Americans are worried about the cost of groceries, gas and healthcare, we're seeing weaponization of homophobia and transphobia, creating fears of people in bathrooms and men in women's sports. &nbsp;In Ohio, they're trying to push through a ban on Drag performances, and have never enshrined the right to gay marriage. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the cost of living is through the roof, unemployment is up, and few people see a solid path towards retirement. &nbsp;What's the "gay agenda" they're always touting? &nbsp;It's simply equality...and maybe a rainbow sidewalk on the way to a Drag brunch...but they'll settle for basic equality.

To Proudly Fight Against the Culture War

What if joy isn't the reward for learning, but the lesson itself?
In this episode, Matt sits down with Allie Rivera Quiñonez, better known to millions of families as Ms. Appleberry from CoComelon's "The Melon Patch," alongside her sister, Nicole Rivera, Moonbug Media's Senior Creative Executive, for a conversation about children's media, creativity, family, and the big responsibility of helping shape little minds.


Together, they explore how children learn through music, movement, play, imagination, and occasionally making adults sing songs they swore they'd never have memorized.  As The Melon Patch continues to reach families through YouTube Kids, Netflix, and Disney +, Allie & Nicole share the intentional approach behind creating content that teaches confidence, connection, curiosity, and emotional growth.  Their shared vision has helped bring meaningful educational experiences to children around the world.


Of course, Matt couldn't pass up the opportunity to discuss one of his favorite topics: puppets.  From beloved childhood characters to today's educational storytellers, they explore why felt, foam, and a little imagination can sometimes teach lessons that stick with us for a lifetime.


Whether you're a parent, educator, creator, or someone who still gets excited when a puppet enters the scene, this conversation is a reminder that the most meaningful learning often starts with wonder.  Join us as we go there.

What if joy isn't the reward for learning, but the lesson itself? In this episode, Matt sits down with Allie Rivera Qui&ntilde;onez, better known to millions of families as Ms. Appleberry from CoComelon's "The Melon Patch," alongside her sister, Nicole Rivera, Moonbug Media's Senior Creative Executive, for a conversation about children's media, creativity, family, and the big responsibility of helping shape little minds.
 Together, they explore how children learn through music, movement, play, imagination, and occasionally making adults sing songs they swore they'd never have memorized. &nbsp;As The Melon Patch continues to reach families through YouTube Kids, Netflix, and Disney +, Allie &amp; Nicole share the intentional approach behind creating content that teaches confidence, connection, curiosity, and emotional growth. &nbsp;Their shared vision has helped bring meaningful educational experiences to children around the world.
 Of course, Matt couldn't pass up the opportunity to discuss one of his favorite topics: puppets. &nbsp;From beloved childhood characters to today's educational storytellers, they explore why felt, foam, and a little imagination can sometimes teach lessons that stick with us for a lifetime.
 Whether you're a parent, educator, creator, or someone who still gets excited when a puppet enters the scene, this conversation is a reminder that the most meaningful learning often starts with wonder. &nbsp;Join us as we go there.

Ms. Appleberry, Puppets & the Business of Joy

Jerrad Christian, a software engineer and Navy veteran, is back on the campaign trail, after losing his freshman congressional race in 2024, now running a grassroots campaign to unseat U.S. House of Representatives Troy Balderson, a Republican for Ohio's 12th District, and recipient of corporate PAC money and billionaire donors. Jerrad’s here to make change and give the power back to the people of the state. He doesn’t pull any punches. He tells it like he’s sees it. Even his merchandise proudly boasts, he doesn't "give a F*** about Billionaires." His "HOT" takes are only matched by some hot sauces in this discussion, as Matt and Jerrad partake in some spicy sauces over some delicious pierogies; an Ohio staple.

Jerrad Christian, a software engineer and Navy veteran, is back on the campaign trail, after losing his freshman congressional race in 2024, now running a grassroots campaign to unseat U.S. House of Representatives Troy Balderson, a Republican for Ohio's 12th District, and recipient of corporate PAC money and billionaire donors. Jerrad&rsquo;s here to make change and give the power back to the people of the state. He doesn&rsquo;t pull any punches. He tells it like he&rsquo;s sees it. Even his merchandise proudly boasts, he doesn't "give a F*** about Billionaires." His "HOT" takes are only matched by some hot sauces in this discussion, as Matt and Jerrad partake in some spicy sauces over some delicious pierogies; an Ohio staple.

Hot Takes with Jerrad Christian

Mike Maeshiro joins the podcast to share his experience as a former pastor recovering from religious toxicity. Mike is gay, an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and a queer theology enthusiast. He is a former instructor at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, best known for his class, “Discerning of Spirits.” He now teaches on emotional health and redemptive deconstruction as a consultant and coach for gay men recovering from evangelicalism. As a social media influencer, he highlights the issues he sees from his perspective and our cultural problems with homophobia, transphobia and Christian hate.  Matt and Mike read through some of his messages and DMs from those unwilling to accept Mike as a gay man who preaches love and acceptance.  In Mike's own words, “Humans matter more than theology."

Mike Maeshiro joins the podcast to share his experience as a former pastor recovering from religious toxicity. Mike is gay, an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and a queer theology enthusiast. He is a former instructor at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, best known for his class, &ldquo;Discerning of Spirits.&rdquo; He now teaches on emotional health and redemptive deconstruction as a consultant and coach for gay men recovering from evangelicalism. As a social media influencer, he highlights the issues he sees from his perspective and our cultural problems with homophobia, transphobia and Christian hate. &nbsp;Matt and Mike read through some of his messages and DMs from those unwilling to accept Mike as a gay man who preaches love and acceptance. &nbsp;In Mike's own words, &ldquo;Humans matter more than theology."

No Hate Like "Christian" Love with Mike Maeshiro

What does "Community" look like to you? Is it your neighborhood, favorite sports fans, or fellow churchgoers?  Whoever your tribe is and whatever your common interests and values, community is vital to our well-being. Matt brings some of his fellow Cleveland organizers and content creators to share their ideas and experiences with building community.  John Skrtic of the Cleveland Public Library has spent 20 years profiling Clevelanders and their stories.  Brian Lachman is the force behind The People's Flag of Cleveland, along with his new Foodbank fundraising organization, Homegrown Help.  And Kristin Mulcahy, aka KristininCleveland, creates content and organizes events for people of all ages, including KidsinCleveland Yoga.  We rarely see more than the polished event photos and videos, or testimonials from the successes along the way.  But building true community is messy.  It's hard.  It's sometimes grueling.  And not every villager helps create the village. The more we find ourselves divided by geography, politics, or social media, the harder it becomes to find the courage to allow ourselves to be vulnerable enough to enter into some of these spaces and relationships. For humans, though, we need fellowship, engagement and belonging. It's not about surviving, it's about thriving.

What does "Community" look like to you? Is it your neighborhood, favorite sports fans, or fellow churchgoers? &nbsp;Whoever your tribe is and whatever your common interests and values, community is vital to our well-being. Matt brings some of his fellow Cleveland organizers and content creators to share their ideas and experiences with building community. &nbsp;John Skrtic of the Cleveland Public Library has spent 20 years profiling Clevelanders and their stories. &nbsp;Brian Lachman is the force behind The People's Flag of Cleveland, along with his new Foodbank fundraising organization, Homegrown Help. &nbsp;And Kristin Mulcahy, aka KristininCleveland, creates content and organizes events for people of all ages, including KidsinCleveland Yoga. &nbsp;We rarely see more than the polished event photos and videos, or testimonials from the successes along the way. &nbsp;But building true community is messy. &nbsp;It's hard. &nbsp;It's sometimes grueling. &nbsp;And not every villager helps create the village. The more we find ourselves divided by geography, politics, or social media, the harder it becomes to find the courage to allow ourselves to be vulnerable enough to enter into some of these spaces and relationships. For humans, though, we need fellowship, engagement and belonging. It's not about surviving, it's about thriving.

The Beautiful Messiness of Community

Matt's Season 3 Birthday Episode is all about his favorite comicbook hero of all time: Superman.  Matt talks about why he loves the character so much and how it has represented hope throughout his life.  Several people from the 2025 Superman film join the episode to share their experiences working on the film.  Mike Wendt from the Greater Cleveland Film Commission talks about Cleveland being the inspiration for Metropolis and selling DC/Warner on its production values.  Actress Ashleigh Morghan, who played the LuthorCorp Scientist in the film, discusses her process and craft, as well as her love for the comics and characters.  And Megan-Kate Hoover, Animal wrangler and trainer, shares stories from the set, providing support and expertise with dogs, squirrels, turtles and cats for the big screen.  Plus Siegel and Shuster Society's former President, Mike Olszewski, gives some history on Superman, his creators, and all the ties to the city of Cleveland.  With co-producer Kayleigh leading the charge, friends of Matt pop in to roast and toast him for his big day, back on December 28th, 2025.

Matt's Season 3 Birthday Episode is all about his favorite comicbook hero of all time: Superman. &nbsp;Matt talks about why he loves the character so much and how it has represented hope throughout his life. &nbsp;Several people from the 2025 Superman film join the episode to share their experiences working on the film. &nbsp;Mike Wendt from the Greater Cleveland Film Commission talks about Cleveland being the inspiration for Metropolis and selling DC/Warner on its production values. &nbsp;Actress Ashleigh Morghan, who played the LuthorCorp Scientist in the film, discusses her process and craft, as well as her love for the comics and characters. &nbsp;And Megan-Kate Hoover, Animal wrangler and trainer, shares stories from the set, providing support and expertise with dogs, squirrels, turtles and cats for the big screen. &nbsp;Plus Siegel and Shuster Society's former President, Mike Olszewski, gives some history on Superman, his creators, and all the ties to the city of Cleveland. &nbsp;With co-producer Kayleigh leading the charge, friends of Matt pop in to roast and toast him for his big day, back on December 28th, 2025.

SuperMatt Returns

Less than 1 week before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Bryan Hambley, a leukemia doctor and candidate for Secretary of State, sits at the Going There table to share his personal, professional and social viewpoints.  The focus of his campaign and political aspirations rests on the idea of fair elections and dismantling the gerrymandered maps.  What can a doctor bring to the table?  Tune in to learn more about this political candidate who stands alone at the line of refusing any corporate PAC money.  Although he would argue he isn't lonely because his values, morals and integrity are on his side.

Less than 1 week before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Bryan Hambley, a leukemia doctor and candidate for Secretary of State, sits at the Going There table to share his personal, professional and social viewpoints. &nbsp;The focus of his campaign and political aspirations rests on the idea of fair elections and dismantling the gerrymandered maps. &nbsp;What can a doctor bring to the table? &nbsp;Tune in to learn more about this political candidate who stands alone at the line of refusing any corporate PAC money. &nbsp;Although he would argue he isn't lonely because his values, morals and integrity are on his side.

Bryan Hambley: The Impression That I Get

Our avoidance and aversion to death have been commonplace in modern society.  When we know our ultimate inevitability, why don't we focus on ways to live our best lives so that we can depart in true peace?  In recent years, Death Doulas have emerged, acting as a guiding hand for the family, friends, and the soon-to-be deceased.  Nicole Hoover, aka Death Doula Nicole, joins the show for a discussion on legacy work, supporting loved ones, and embracing life's end.  From Death Cafes to corporate benefits, much more can be done to change the way we view and experience death and loss.

Our avoidance and aversion to death have been commonplace in modern society. &nbsp;When we know our ultimate inevitability, why don't we focus on ways to live our best lives so that we can depart in true peace? &nbsp;In recent years, Death Doulas have emerged, acting as a guiding hand for the family, friends, and the soon-to-be deceased. &nbsp;Nicole Hoover, aka Death Doula Nicole, joins the show for a discussion on legacy work, supporting loved ones, and embracing life's end. &nbsp;From Death Cafes to corporate benefits, much more can be done to change the way we view and experience death and loss.

Interview with the Death Doula

Only weeks before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Allison Russo, Ohio State Representative and Secretary of State candidate, joins the show for a somewhat tongue-in-cheek chat, a la Between Two Ferns.  Beyond the deadpan humor and left-field questions from Matt, we dig into the serious components of what the Secretary of State does and why that role is so important with keeping elections fair and safe.  In a year when the President is threatening to nationalize the election, to dispatch ICE to polling locations and block many groups from voting, this conversation is dire. 

Only weeks before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Allison Russo, Ohio State Representative and Secretary of State candidate, joins the show for a somewhat tongue-in-cheek chat, a la Between Two Ferns. &nbsp;Beyond the deadpan humor and left-field questions from Matt, we dig into the serious components of what the Secretary of State does and why that role is so important with keeping elections fair and safe. &nbsp;In a year when the President is threatening to nationalize the election, to dispatch ICE to polling locations and block many groups from voting, this conversation is dire.&nbsp;

Allison Russo: Between Two Terms

Each episode, we're joined by a unique panel of guests, as we unpack all the issues that keep us divided: politics, religion, sex, money, race, and so much more. All the topics you're not allowed to bring up at a dinner party are dropped right back on the table.

Each episode, we're joined by a unique panel of guests, as we unpack all the issues that keep us divided: politics, religion, sex, money, race, and so much more. All the topics you're not allowed to bring up at a dinner party are dropped right back on the table.

Going There: Taboo Topics Are Back on the Table

Our hosts Matt, LeJon and Jo talk to guests about all the issues that keep us divided: politics, religion, sex, money, race, and so on. The topics you can't bring up at a dinner party are dropped back on the table.

Going There: Taboo Topics Are Back on the Table

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