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"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastMagnet and Steel: Donna and Dr Adam In Conversation with very special guest Walter Egan“For you are a magnet and I am steel.” Sound familiar? Those unforgettable lyrics come from the 1978 Billboard Top 10 hit “Magnet and Steel", written and performed by Walter Egan — and in this special episode, he joins Donna and Dr. Adam in conversation!Walter takes us on a journey starting in New York with his surf rock band The Malibooz, followed by five years with the Washington D.C.-based group Sageworth. After relocating to Los Angeles, he became a gigging musician, eventually crossing paths with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. The Fleetwood Mac duo produced Walter’s debut albu...2025-04-201h 21"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastValentine’s Day, Pop Sixties Style! With special guest Domenic PrioreCome spend Valentine’s Day with Donna and Dr Adam and special guest Domenic Priore! Domenic is a writer and expert in ‘60s popular music and youth culture. In this episode, the trio take a trip down the rabbit hole to 1960s Los Angeles through five of Domenic’s books: Riot on Sunset Strip, a chronicle of the electrifying rise and fall of the Sunset Strip music scene; Pacific Ocean Park, a history of the famed Santa Monica mid-century amusement park; Smile: The Story of Brian Wilson’s Lost Masterpiece, the story of perhaps the most famous unfinished album in the h...2025-02-141h 30"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastSeason 6 Finale: Merry Christmas Baby with special holiday guest Gaylord FieldsWe think it’s almost Christmas time! In this holiday special and sixth season finale, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by Gaylord Fields! Gaylord is a longtime host on WFMU, a DJ, and writer whose eclectic interests in music span genres and generations. In conversation, Gaylord shares how music has been a throughline throughout his life and career, and the trio share some Christmas memories. Gaylord also spins Donna’s holiday recordings, including her first single when she was nine years old and her most recent holiday classic!2024-12-241h 25"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastGirl Group Power! With special guest DJ Glynis WardIt's time for the Girls! In this episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by DJ Glynis Ward, host of WFMU "Crayons to Perfume", a weekly radio show dedicated to girl groups and women artists from the '60s.
In conversation, Glynis shares how she became a champion of the girl group sound, having started as a DJ and writer in Canada. Along the way, you'll be introduced to garage rock rarities like the all-female Daughters of Eve, and reacquainted with The Supremes. Plus the trio bridge the cultural divide, with Glynis spinning tales and tracks from...2024-11-271h 27"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastMade in Hollywood: Donna & Dr Adam In Conversation with Scott Morrow & Shannon AllenAre you a fan of classic film and television? Well, Donna and Dr Adam have you covered when they are joined by two very special guests: Scott Morrow and Shannon Allen! As a child actor during the Golden Age of Hollywood, Scott “Scotty” Morrow played Hope Lange’s brother in the film “Peyton Place” and was seen in classic shows “The Donna Reed Show”, “Wagon Train”, “Lassie”, and “My Three Sons”. Shannon Allen is a podcaster and writer with her popular podcast “Vanguard of Hollywood”, where she gets up close and personal with the films and stars of the Golden Age. In conversation, S...2024-10-231h 47"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastA Visit to Alberobello with Donna and Dr AdamEp 83 Part 1
Come along with Donna and Dr Adam and experience the famous ancient village of Alberobello in Southern Italy with its well-preserved Trulli houses in this special video episode!
From Donna:
"In 1967, I found myself in a Warner Bros recording studio in Rome, Italy. I was asked to sing a theme to a movie called "Once Before I Die", starring Ursula Andress. To promote the song Warner Bros. sent me down the coast of the Adriatic to a tiny mountain town called Alberobello. This was an ancient village, well preserved with the unique Trulli...2024-10-0612 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastA Travel Diary from Alberobello to MilanEp 83 Part 2
Ciao, Love’s A Secret Weapon community! Fancy a summer vacation in Italy? Back in June and July, Dr Adam was travelling around Europe – and Donna and Dr Adam thought you might like to come along! They caught up twice: once in Alberobello in Southern Italy, and this one in Milan before he headed home.
In these two travel diaries, Adam shares his experiences in real-time of the iconic Alberobello, with its famous Trulli buildings, and then picturesque Milan, while Donna recalls her own visit to Alberobello in the ‘60s! “L'amore è un'arma segreta!” – in whatever language you...2024-10-0632 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastShindig's 60th Anniversary! "Tales of Shindig!"Celebrate Shindig’s 60th Birthday (Sept 16, 1964-2024) on “Love’s a Secret Weapon” Podcast❤️ with a replay of Chapter 7 part 3 of Donna's Memoir: "Tales of Shindig!" But wait! There’s more❣️ If this perks your curiosity, Chapter 7, Parts 1-4 reveal my entire Shindig! Experience
❤️Go Donna and Dr Adam🎊🎉
Onstage and backstage, Donna relishes her role on Shindig being surrounded by the likes of The Righteous Brothers, The Rolling Stones, Glen Campbell, Marvin Gaye, Tina Turner and Bobby Sherman.
2024-09-151h 12"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastJUST THE 2 OF US: Scorpions, Babies & Solar Flares!JUST THE 2 OF US:
After 20-years there's still so much more to learn about each other. Relationships are incredibly valuable and Dr Adam and Donna have a strong bond they share in the name of Donna's favorite 4 letter word: LOVE
In this rare intimate time together, Donna and Dr Adam share what they’ve been up to over the past couple of months, including the arrival of new family members, being awed by the recent eclipse and even encounters with scorpions! They also talk about watching the new series “Ripley”, and how its romantic setting of a 1960s Italy spoke...2024-07-081h 02"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastTuned In and The Power of One: Donna and Dr Adam in Conversation with Jim WilsonIn this episode, Donna and Dr Adam Gerace are joined by musician and author Jim Wilson to talk about his new book “Tuned In: Memoirs of a Piano Man”!
Jim has had distinct, but complementary careers as both a musician and performer alongside his work as an expert piano tuner-technician to music royalty, including Paul McCartney, Elton John, Burt Bacharach, and Carole King.
In conversation with Donna and Dr Adam, Jim shares his journey from being a young boy in Amarillo, Texas to his work in California as the go-to-person transforming the Steinways of legends with...2024-06-191h 32"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastRoute 66 and Beyond: Donna and Dr Adam in Conversation with Leslie StevensIn this episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by longtime radio DJ Leslie Stevens! Leslie has 45 years’ experience as a DJ, including hosting his own long-running syndicated show “Route 66 Oldies Show”, which brings back the sounds and memories of the ‘50s and ‘60s.
In their conversation, Leslie shares his journey from a small radio station in the LA mountains to hosting, producing, and reporting for radio and TV stations in California and Arizona. Remember KHJ Boss Radio in Los Angeles? Or perhaps you had your own favourite radio station in your city growing up. We’ll revisit thos...2024-04-3055 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastHope Thru Music: Donna and Dr Adam in Conversation with Maurice GainenIn this special episode, Donna and Dr. Adam are joined by musician Maurice Gainen! Maurice, who is a woodwind musician, producer, composer, and engineer, first worked with Donna to rejuvenate her signature song “It Only Hurts When I Cry” in 2009. He then engineered Donna’s first album in decades, “Love It Away” in 2010, and he provides the distinctive saxophone sounds on her modern holiday classic, “Merry Christmas Baby”!
In conversation with Donna and Dr Adam, Maurice invites us into his Silverlake recording studio, and tells us about his long and diverse music career, which includes his own recordings, li...2024-04-081h 14"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastSeason 6 Premiere - You're Invited to a Party!Welcome back to Season 6 of Love’s a Season Weapon Podcast!
In this episode, you’re invited to a dinner party! Join Donna, Dr Adam, and special guests Sheryl Farber and Steven Stanley, who recorded this episode while Donna, Sheryl, and Steve were out to dinner in Topanga, CA.
Sheryl Farber and Steve Stanley are music producers, musicians, archivists, and historians, who have produced and worked on hundreds of music compilations and re-releases that showcase or rediscover fabulous artists, sounds and productions. Sheryl is a Grammy-nominated producer for the compilations “Wild Tales of the Ramones” and “One Kiss Can L...2024-02-121h 12"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 23: Only Love“Truth is a mysterious entity. I love it and cherish it. Anytime I can speak the truth about my feelings, a little more of Me comes into focus. All the tears I’ve swallowed flow more freely now and I await the day that I can sing for you again”.In this final chapter of Donna’s memoir…It’s August 14, 2008, a pivotal day that led to Donna deciding to make music again. Donna takes us back to her decision to step out again, her recording of her album “Love It Away," and the decision after 15 years...2023-12-231h 12
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldLegacy of the Lost: Uncovering the Eastland's Hidden StoriesSend us a textEpisode 38 of Flower in the River Podcast is dedicated to Donna Loren and Dr. Adam Gerace from "Love's a Secret Weapon" podcast. It’s not often that you can go on a podcast with a film star and singer that you’ve admired since you were a child--but that happened! Last month, multitalented film icon and vocal powerhouse, Donna Loren and Dr. Adam Gerace invited me to discuss my book on their podcast. I still can't believe this happened but here's the link to "The Ancestors Who Guide Us: Donna and Dr Adam In Conv...2023-12-0239 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastThe Ancestors Who Guide Us: Donna and Dr Adam In Conversation with Natalie ZettIn a special episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by author, journalist, and podcaster Natalie Zett! Natalie has written Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told, a work of historical fiction that draws on her own family’s tragedy. At the center of the story is the death of Natalie’s real-life great aunt, Martha Pfeiffer, who lost her life in 1915 on the SS Eastland ship disaster in Chicago. Natalie’s historical backdrop allows her to tell a story of intergenerational trauma and the ties that bind us to our ancestors. Donna, Dr Adam, and Natalie chat a...2023-12-011h 14"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastA Balancing Act: Donna and Dr Adam in Conversation with Willie AronIn this special episode, Donna and Dr. Adam are joined by musician Willie Aron! Willie, who is a Grammy nominee, worked with Donna to bring to life her first concert in over 50 years at Tiki Oasis in 2016. Donna and Willie share memories of that event and, in conversation with Donna and Dr Adam, Willie discusses his wide-ranging and diverse career as a singer, songwriter, composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist and educator.
Willie’s first band was 1980's cult lo-fi rock, garage quartet "The Balancing Act", whose album “Curtains” was produced by the legendary Andy Gill (“Gang of Four”). From there, he...2023-11-092h 02"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 22: It's Such A ShameIn this new chapter…
Donna reflects on the relationships she had with her adopted father and her mother at the height of her ‘60s career and in their later years.
Then, Donna and Dr Adam speak about the importance of understanding the good and not so good of one’s upbringing, so that we may move forward with compassion for ourselves and others.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guest Kelly Munroe! Kelly shares her experiences of illness and resilience, and the trio discuss the importance of all of us contri...2023-10-201h 45"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 21: Casting My Spell On You with guests Jo David and Marlow HarrisWelcome to a new chapter of Donna’s memoir! We open with a duet sung by Donna and Bobby Sherman on Shindig, “Casting My Spell on You”.
In this episode…Donna takes us back to the early 2000s as her fashion business, ADASA Hawaii, enters a new phase with celebrity clientele and the hottest lines including Juicy Couture, James Perse, Isabella Fiore and Lacoste. At a time of personal change and professional success, Donna begins to wonder if her new voice is as a Designer.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guests Jo David and Marl...2023-08-311h 45"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastFrom the LA Times to "Steel Magnolias": Donna and Dr Adam In Conversation with David LinckIn this special episode before Donna commences reading a new chapter from her memoir…
Donna and Dr Adam are joined by very special fan guest, David Linck. David has had a decades-long career in the news and entertainment industry, including at the Los Angeles Times, Box Office Magazine, and CNN. For over 30 years, he was a unit publicist for the major film studios, working on 70+ feature films.
In a far-ranging conversation discussing self-development, music, and the entertainment world, David shares with Donna and Dr Adam what it was like at a major newspaper in the pre-computer age, his work with Gl...2023-08-081h 37"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 6As this chapter closes…
In the shadow of 9/11, Donna is offered the opportunity to open a new boutique in the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Leticia Lopez! Leticia is a journalist, author, and historian who has previously interviewed Donna – and now the tables turn as Leticia tells Donna and Dr Adam about her work researching and writing about both ‘60s and modern mid-century inspired pop culture. Leticia introduces Donna and Dr Adam to some of the unique people she has written about, and Donna shares her perspective on why...2023-07-051h 35"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 5In this episode...
After her stepdad’s death, Donna asks her mother to join her in Hawaii. Checking into the Mauna Lani Hotel for one night, Donna’s mother finally shares the truth about a trip she made to Boston when she was twenty years old, where she met the man who was Donna’s biological father.
In conversation, Donna and Dr Adam talk about recognizing the patterns in our relationships with others so that we can move forward.2023-06-2645 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 4As Donna continues reading from her memoir…
An opportunity to do a fashion show in Florida leads Donna to create a full collection. But when it’s rained away, a bigger opportunity awaits – a trip to Monte Carlo! Donna, Jered, and many trunks of handmade garments, custom shoes, jewelry, and hats make their way to a fashion show on the Mediterranean! When they return, Donna begins a new venture and it becomes a real family affair.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Sandy Netburn! Sandy is a multi-talented teenage musician, ventriloquist, and po...2023-05-261h 50"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastDr Adam reads, 'So, This Is 40?'It’s Dr Adam’s birthday, and what a gift he’s been to our Love’s A Secret Weapon Podcast!
Turning 40 can be overwhelming, and so on his birthday, Dr Adam shares a reflection with you of how his values have evolved. Incredibly vulnerable and sensitive, here is our doctor of psychology reflecting on how imperfect life is!
Donna and Dr Adam utilise his reflection to discuss the importance of living life in line with one’s values, learning from experiences, self-kindness and self-compassion, and the power of empathy.2023-05-1058 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastHappy birthday, Jered!In this episode…Donna, Dr Adam, & Jered Cargman in conversation!
In honor of Donna’s husband’s birthday, we are replaying our conversation from 2022 where Jered joined Donna and Dr Adam! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting in 1965 for Donna’s high school Prom, as well as their reconnecting and courtship many years later. Jered also shares his memories of being in the band The Fantastic Baggys with lifelong friend and composer, P.F. Sloan ("Secret Agent Man").2023-04-281h 06"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 3In this episode as Donna continues reading from her Memoir…
she begins to work with a team to bring her new clothing designs to life in Hawaii. Utilizing old-world techniques to paint and sew the garments proves cathartic for Donna and the women she works with in her new atelier in Waimea.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guests: Jim and Susan Dixon! Jim and Susan share their courtship story and how they bonded through a shared passion for Beach Party movies and Hammer horror films, as well as Jim’s career change to beco...2023-04-171h 37"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 2As Donna continues reading from her memoir…
Donna’s couture designs begin to attract attention on the Big Island of Hawaii culminating in a photo shoot in a volcano lava field! It’s Paris in Paniolo Paradise!
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest! Gary Wells is a writer and blogger devoted to mid-century culture, music, and films. Gary joins Donna and Dr Adam to talk mid-century records, cars, and The King of Rock 'n' Roll – Elvis. What’s your favourite Elvis film – the trio discuss!
Gary's blog is available...2023-03-281h 38"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastTeen Idols Reunite!: Donna Loren in conversation with Paul PetersenIn this very special episode, Donna reunites with her longtime friend – actor, singer, and advocate Paul Petersen! Paul joins Donna and Dr Adam to reminisce about his role on The Donna Reed Show, talk with Donna about their decades-long friendship and to tell listeners about the important work of his organization, "A Minor Consideration", founded to protect the welfare of young performers. You will not want to miss this very special reunion! Paul Petersen was one of the biggest teen idols of the ‘50s and ‘60s. He started his career as a Mouseketeer on The Mickey Mouse Club and played a...2023-03-0334 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastHappy Valentine's Day! Donna and Dr Adam with very special guest Margareta Sjödin!“We’re linking together in the frequency of Love”.
Happy Valentine’s Day Love’s A Secret Weapon Community! In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna’s longtime friend, Swedish actress and artist Margareta Sjödin. Margareta revisits her TV and film career, including her role as the ditsy blonde in the comedy series Partaj, which was based on the American series Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, and providing the voice of Duchess in the Swedish version of Disney’s The Aristocats. Donna and Margareta reminisce about their friendship, which started in Malibu in the 1980s, and Margareta...2023-02-1558 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 20: Eloquent - Part 1Welcome to Season 5 and a new chapter of Donna’s memoir!
In this episode: Moving to the tropics requires a new wardrobe, and when Donna meets some silk painters, she is inspired to start designing dresses for the first time since her ‘60s career – this time, Hawaiian style!
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their first guest for the new season: photographer David Crotty! David, who has photographed some of the biggest Hollywood stars, shares his story with Donna and Dr Adam, taking them and their listeners from New York to Maui, Los Angeles to Palm Spr...2023-01-311h 22"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastSeason Finale: We Think It's Almost Christmas Time!In this 60th episode of the podcast and the fourth season finale, Donna and Dr Adam reminisce about their recent travels, Dr Adam shares some personal news, and the duo give their thanks to you, the listeners, and guests who joined Donna and Dr Adam during the year.
And in her holiday message to listeners, Donna draws inspiration from Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, to share her hopes for 2023. Plus hear Donna’s performances of three Christmas songs from her career: "Merry Christmas Baby" from Donna's 2010 EP, Donna Does Elvis in Hawaii; "Santa Claus is Co...2022-12-2542 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 19: Love It Away - Part 2In this episode, as Donna continues reading her memoir…
Donna and her friend Vicki’s decision to read Shakespeare’s King Lear provides Donna with insight into her own relationships. And when it comes time for the North Kohala Library to move to a modern new building, an old Hawaiian tradition is used.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, music critic and journalist Mark Deming! Mark tells the story of how his fumbling through asking Robert Altman a question at a university lecture led to Mark’s debut acting role in Altman’s A...2022-12-071h 27"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 19: Love It Away - Part 1In this next chapter of Donna’s memoir…
As Donna begins to form a new life and friendships on the Big Island of Hawaii, she is visited by someone from her past – her former father-in-law, Si.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Kyle Jasper! Kyle is an 18-year-old drummer who joins Donna and Dr Adam to talk about his love of mid-century music, fashion and his own musical influences as the trio delve into the groundbreaking rock opera episode of Shindig called “Shindig Place”.2022-11-181h 25"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 18: Dream World - Part 4In this episode…
As this chapter of Donna's memoir concludes, Donna decides to write her mother a letter telling her that she finally knows the truth about her Dad. In a far-ranging conversation, Donna and Dr Adam discuss truth and the complexity of family dynamics, as well as how one can emerge from difficult experiences with greater clarity and self-awareness.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Margaret “Peggy” McDaniel to chat gardening, dressmaking, and what it was like for Donna to see herself on a billboard! And, Margaret and Donna share a love of...2022-10-311h 11"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 18: Dream World - Part 3 with very special guests Todd Hughes and P. David EbersoleIn this episode...
As Donna continues to read from her memoir, the healing energy of Hawaii proves to be the perfect place to process the truth about her Dad.
Plus, you’re invited to Lunch with Lizabeth…and Todd! Donna and Dr Adam welcome back Todd Hughes and his partner P. David Ebersole to talk about Todd’s new book, Lunch with Lizabeth – a memoir of Todd’s two decade friendship with film noir legend Lizabeth Scott.2022-10-171h 29"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast* Special episode * You Got to Have Friends: Meet Donna's BFF Janis!In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by Donna’s friend, Janis Weitz. Donna and Janis reminisce about their lifelong friendship, from meeting in elementary school to being on the sets of Shindig! and The Dating Game, celebrating milestone birthdays, and more. Revisit some of the stories Donna’s shared on the podcast with someone who was there! Plus, Janis talks with Donna and Dr Adam about her passion as a special educator.2022-10-031h 11"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 18: Dream World - Part 2In this episode...
After Donna returns to Hawaii, she begins to process the revelation that Morey is not her father. Donna and Dr Adam delve into meditation, mindfulness, and the power of 'stillness' when processing life experiences.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guest and pop culture enthusiast Robert Baum. Donna, Dr Adam, and Robert delve into their favorite James Bond and Batman characters, and much much more, while also continuing the theme of the importance of understanding and using our past experiences for growth.2022-09-131h 08"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 18: Dream World - Part 1Donna continues reading her memoir: When Donna returns to L.A. with Jered for a friend’s wedding, the truth is revealed: Morey is not Donna’s father. This revelation spirals Donna into illness.
Plus, we have a special treat: Jered Cargman, Donna’s husband, joins Donna and Dr Adam on the podcast! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting in 1965 for Donna’s high school Prom, as well as their reconnecting and courtship many years later. Jered also shares his memories of being in the band The Fantastic Baggys with lifelong friend and composer, P.F. Sloa...2022-08-231h 09"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 17: Ninety Day Guarantee - Part 3 with very special guest Guy GilchristWelcome to Season 4, and it’s Donna – Hawaiian style! In this episode, Donna reacquaints with her high school prom date, Jered. Admitting their feelings for each other after so many years, Donna and Jered uproot and decide to make their new home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Living in a rural tropical area with the jungle and ocean all around takes adjustment and, as Donna settles in, she is unaware that a shocking surprise is just around the corner.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their first guest of the new season – Guy Gilchrist. A multitalented writer...2022-08-022h 13
"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 17: Ninety Day Guarantee - Part 2 with very special guest Salli SachseIt’s the finale of Season 3! In this episode, the earth moves! Following the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and the arrest of O. J. Simpson, the relationship between Donna and her parents begins to unravel. While she begins to learn more about her adopted dad, Morey, a dramatic incident occurs that leads Donna to reevaluate the relationships in her life. Taking a leap of faith, Donna calls her longtime friend, Jerry, in Sedona.
And we have another Beach Party reunion! Salli Sachse, actress and artist, and one of the ‘Bookends’ in American International Pictures’ Beach Party film series hangs ten with...2022-06-211h 27"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 17: Ninety Day Guarantee - Part 1It’s Episode 50…and a new chapter!
Seeking to take some positive action, Donna begins working with a professional to help uncover how her early experiences with her parents and career shaped her development.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest, Stephen White. Stephen lives in Melbourne, Australia and he switched careers mid-life to become an educator.
In both Donna’s reading and in conversation with Stephen, Donna and Dr Adam explore the importance of understanding oneself and how it’s never too late to make a change to live li...2022-05-311h 31
"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast*Special episode* 99 Miles from L.A. - A Conversation with P. David Ebersole & Todd HughesIn this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna's longtime friends, filmmakers P. David Ebersole and Todd Hughes. Todd and David are the documentary filmmakers behind works exploring the lives and careers of luminaries including Pierre Cardin, Trini Lopez, Patty Schemel, Cher and her mother Georgia Holt, and Jayne Mansfield. David and Todd join the podcast on the eve of the release of David's new novel, the noir thriller 99 Miles from L.A. Hear about their work and how Donna became involved as a musical guest in David and Todd's docu-drama, Mansfield 66/67.2022-05-091h 01"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 16: Sedona - Part 4As Donna’s time in Sedona ends, she returns to L.A. and rents the former home of a Hollywood fashion icon. Settling back into life in L.A., Donna throws herself into a school musical project with her youngest daughter. Finding her feet after her divorce, Donna meets a producer wanting to bring the life of this former Shindig Girl to the small screen.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest, Steven O. Sellers. Steven has spent a lifetime on radio, and he provides an insider’s perspective on 50 years of broa...2022-04-261h 20"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 16: Sedona - Part 3Moving to a new place is hard and, as a divorcee, Donna tries to settle into her new community. And what’s that bright light in the sky…is it a UFO?
Donna and Dr Adam discuss how Donna began to navigate the losses that come with divorce and the importance of self-forgiveness.
Plus, it’s time for music as Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest to the show – musician and multi-instrumentalist, Andy Nazzal. Andy takes Adam and Donna into the world of exotica and tiki culture and Donna reminisces about her own headlinin...2022-04-111h 09"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast*Special episode* Remembering Bobby RydellIn a tribute to rock ‘n’ roll legend Bobby Rydell, we replay our episode from 2021 where Donna was joined by Bobby to reminisce about their co-starring roles on 1966’s The Milton Berle Show.2022-04-061h 03"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 16: Sedona - Part 2Echoing an earlier emergency procedure she had at 19, Donna requires immediate surgery. Donna and Dr Adam discuss how family dynamics and life experiences affect our psychological and physical well being.
Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest to the show – Bill Alexander. Donna has previously appeared on Bill’s The Bill Alexander Show and, this time, Donna and Dr Adam turn the tables to interview this longtime radio host and podcaster!2022-03-2257 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast*Special episode * Music is Power: Donna and Dr Adam in conversation with author Brad SchreiberMusic is Power! And Love’s a Secret Weapon! In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Brad Schreiber, author of Music is Power, a meticulously researched treatment of over 100 years of socially conscious music. Brad shares his thoughts on some of the most influential artists and music that intersected with Donna’s ‘60s career, including The Who, The Beatles, P.F. Sloan, Leslie Gore, and Phil Ochs. Donna reflects on what made Shindig so important and which songs from her catalogue appeal to her the most today. And want to know Jimi Hendrix’s connection to Batman? Join us...2022-03-151h 19"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 16: Sedona - Part 1It’s the Call of the Canyon! Donna contemplates a big move to the Red Rocks of Sedona. All the while, she navigates the complexity of divorce. Donna, with the assistance of Dr Adam, explores how we are shaped by our early experiences; and how, with awareness, we can begin to break old patterns. Plus, we continue to invite fans to be on our podcast as part of Season 3’s focus on the fans. Please welcome or guest, Jeff Benson, who asks Donna his questions about Shindig and much more! And, as a special treat for our listeners, there’s a prev...2022-03-011h 21
"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 15: That's What Love Is Made OfAs Donna prepares for a big transition in her life, she returns to the recording studio for the first time in over a decade. Looking to promote her music and pondering a potential new direction to her career, she visits her former agent Norman Brokaw. Donna also decides to address an issue that has bothered her since she was a teenager. And the Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona begin to call her. Donna, with the assistance of Dr Adam, takes their listeners into her experiences after she retired from the public eye.2022-02-071h 07"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 14: So, Do the Zonk - Part 3Donna visits Lake Tahoe and then begins a lofty home renovation project while pregnant with her third child, her daughter Katie. However, there are big changes in store for the Dr Pepper Girl as she enters the 1980s. Plus, please welcome our next guest as part of Season 3’s focus on inviting fans to be our on podcast! Plastic EP, pop culture enthusiast and host of the internet series, Plastic EP TV, joins Donna and Dr Adam to discuss Donna’s work on Shindig, The Monkees, and Batman, and all things mid-century music.2022-01-251h 26"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 14: So, Do the Zonk - Part 2 with very special guest Bobbie Shaw ChanceAs we start a new year of the podcast, Donna continues telling her story post her ‘60s career. In this episode, Donna turns to her piano and music to express her emotions, frustrations, and the unknowns in her life during the turbulent 1970s.
And it’s the Beach Party reunion you’ve been waiting for! Bobbie Shaw Chance, legendary acting coach, and Donna’s co-star, joins Donna and Adam on the sand to reminisce about the classic American International Pictures’ Beach Party film series. Bobbie tells all about working with comedy legend Buster Keaton, shares her experiences as a young woman in Ho...2022-01-101h 02"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastMerry Christmas Baby with special holiday guest John HartmannFor the holiday season and end of 2021, Donna shares a special message. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam continue their chat with John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig. In his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive, John has worked with Sonny & Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Eagles, Buffalo Springfield, Canned Heat, America, Poco, Crosby, Stills & Nash and many, many others. In a continuation of their chat, John tells Donna and Adam about how a visit to San Francisco gave birth to his L.A. nightclub The Kaleidoscope. He then takes us...2021-12-241h 53"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 14: So, Do the Zonk - Part 1 with special holiday guest John HartmannZonk! Donna continues exploring new healing modalities and faces old fears when she takes up swimming and ballet.
And the holidays are here! And, Donna and Dr Adam have your holiday treat. Over the next few episodes, John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig, will join her and Dr Adam to reminisce about his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive. John has worked with Sonny & Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Eagles, Buffalo Springfield, Canned Heat, America, Poco, Crosby, Stills and Nash and many, many others. In a continuation of their ch...2021-12-201h 26"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 13: Let's Pretend - Part 3 with special holiday guest John HartmannThe holidays are here! And, Donna and Dr Adam have your holiday treat. Over the next few episodes, John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig, will join her and Dr Adam to reminisce about his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive. John has worked with Sonny and Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Eagles, Buffalo Springfield, Canned Heat, America, Poco, Crosby, Stills and Nash and many, many others. In the first part of their interview, John tells Donna and Dr Adam about how he moved from the William Morris Agency ma...2021-11-301h 32"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 13: Let's Pretend - Part 2Going from the pressure cooker environment of her parents’ house to a new life takes some adjustment. Donna tries to make sense of it all at the dawn of a new decade. There's even a New Year’s Party where Ry Cooder’s musical vibrations literally smash the heirloom glassware!
Donna and Adam break it down, reflecting on dealing with difficult emotions, the importance of perspective, and the gift of having an open and nonjudgmental approach in relationships.
Plus, we continue our new segment inviting fans to be on our podcast! Please welcome our next guest, Mike Brown, who asks Donna h...2021-11-0556 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 13: Let's Pretend - Part 1It's our third season! Newly retired from her professional career, Donna begins to explore her identity as a wife and mother, and what it means to be a woman of the 1970s. As she forges a new path, her home and life is filled with creativity via producer husband Lenny Waronker's artists, such as Randy Newman, Van Dyke Parks, and Ry Cooder.
Plus we introduce our new segment inviting fans to be on our podcast! Please welcome our first guest, Professor Howard DeWitt, esteemed rock 'n' roll scholar and academic.2021-10-151h 18"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 12: New Love - Part 2A death, a new life, and a change in direction. Donna rushes home from a Dr Pepper event after getting word that a family member is gravely ill. Continuing to feel pulled between her new life with husband Lenny and her parent's close control of her career, Donna calls the CEO of Dr Pepper and makes a liberating decision. As one chapter in her life closes, she welcomes her first son, Joey.2021-08-2758 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 12: New Love - Part 1Somebody's getting married! Donna and Lenny walk down the aisle in front of family, friends, an impatient father-in-law...and 40 additional guests. The bride doesn't even get to taste the cake! Plus Donna and Dr Adam answer listener questions.2021-08-061h 01"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 11: Blowing Out the Candles - Part 5Producers Danny Thomas and Aaron Spelling cast Donna in a pilot for her own series, Two for Penny. Donna takes you behind the scenes and tells all about the on-set mishap with co-star Michael Constantine (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), romantic overtures from Bill Bixby, and why to this day she still thinks of director Paul Bogart whenever she brushes her teeth! And will wedding bells soon be ringing for Donna and Lenny?2021-07-231h 03"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 11: Blowing Out the Candles - Part 4Pack your suitcases! Donna guest stars on The Dating Game and the prize is a trip to Paris! But she has just enough time to linger in the City of Lights before jetting off to Rome for a screentest to play the daughter of an Italian movie legend. Come with Donna and Adam on this unforgettable European adventure!2021-07-021h 06"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 11: Blowing Out the Candles - Part 3Donna joins Reprise Records, Warner Bros.' innovative rock 'n' roll label. And could there be romance on the horizon with an up-and-coming music producer?2021-06-1856 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 11: Blowing Out the Candles - Part 2 with special guest Bobby RydellDonna is joined by Bobby Rydell ("Wild One," "Volare," and Bye Bye Birdie) to reminisce about their co-starring roles on 1966's The Milton Berle Show.2021-06-031h 02"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 11: Blowing Out the Candles - Part 1Donna's moving out of home and into the arms of a new beau. But her bliss is short lived when she must undergo emergency surgery.
There's little time to recuperate as Donna begins work on The Milton Berle Show and then lands a prime gig and trip to Washington, D. C. to perform in the Blue Room at the historic Shoreham Hotel.2021-05-201h 08"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 10: Ten Good Reasons - Part 2Donna continues to build her acting resume when she is cast as Princess Colette, Davy Jones' love interest on The Monkees. And then, "G-o-l-l-y!", Donna snags a role on Gomer Pyle. Plus, Donna and Adam answer listener questions!2021-04-1948 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 10: Ten Good Reasons - Part 1"Good gravy!" After taping on location in Hawaii, Donna exits Shindig. But The Caped Crusader and Boy Wonder come to the rescue when she wins the part of Susie the Cheerleader, as the sidekick of The Joker (Cesar Romero) on TV's Batman starring Adam West and Burt Ward.2021-04-021h 00"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 9: Just A Little GirlDonna's in the Capitol Records Tower to record with the likes of Jack Nitzsche, Steve Douglas, David Axelrod, H. B. Barnum, and the legends of the Wrecking Crew. Plus we answer listener questions!2021-03-191h 05"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast*Special Episode* Her Name is Love - Donna Loren in conversation with very special guest Darlene LoveDonna and very special guest, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Darlene Love reminisce about their places in rock 'n' roll history as cast members of TV's Shindig, Darlene's iconic song "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)", and what Donna and Darlene sees as the true meaning of that holiday. Plus a remembrance of their mutual friend, The Supremes' Mary Wilson.2021-03-0550 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 8: Shakin' All Over - Part 4Donna wins a plum seven-part guest role on hit show Dr. Kildare starring Richard Chamberlain. But her first dramatic TV turn is overshadowed by a real life-or-death medical emergency on set, and tension hit boiling point in Southern L.A. leading to the Watts Riots.2021-02-1250 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 8: Shakin' All Over - Part 3Unchaperoned at the Oscars, Grammys, and Deb Star Ball? Where's Donna's father now? And Bingo! Donna appearance in Beach Blanket Bingo gives her a signature song, "It Only Hurts When I Cry", and she is chosen to record the one-and-only soundtrack for the film - her '60s vinyl LP collectable classic, Beach Blanket Bingo. Recorded at Capitol Records...in 14 hours!2021-01-291h 10"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 8: Shakin' All Over - Part 2Donna travels coast to coast getting a bird's-eye view of America, while she causes sales to rise for Dr Pepper. Poverty in the Deep South to rural Native American land, this young teenager's personal appearances in all parts of the country give her an education in empathy and connection. Even if a well-known celebrity shows little empathy for the Dr Pepper Girl.2021-01-2151 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastSeason Finale: Merry Christmas Baby!We Think It's Almost Christmas Time! In our Season 1 finale, Donna shares a childhood Christmas memory and her wishes for the New Year.
With special guests Joan and Gary Gand, concert sound pioneers and founders of Chicago Bauhaus and Beyond.2020-12-2454 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 8: Shakin' All Over - Part 1The sexual revolution; the Vietnam War; the changing of the guard. Donna pays a price for exerting her power, and then is given a window into the brutality of war while visiting a ward for returned servicemen.
Plus, we remember the visionary singer-songwriter P.F. Sloan ("Eve of Destruction"), with special guest Stephen E. Feinberg.2020-12-101h 20"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 7: Wishin' and Hopin' - Part 4 with special guest David MalletRevolution is in the air at Shindig. And a birthday wish for Donna from Elvis.
With special guest David Mallet, Shindig assistant producer and now Grammy-winning concert film/music video director.2020-12-0418 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 7: Wishin' and Hopin' - Part 2Music music music! Donna debuts on a little rock 'n' roll TV show called Shindig!2020-11-2627 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 7: Wishin' and Hopin' - Part 1 with special guest Brian HylandAll aboard the Caravan! Donna joins Dick Clark's 1964 Caravan of Stars Tour for 21 days. With special guest Brian Hyland (#1 "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka-Dot Bikini", "Sealed with a Kiss").2020-11-131h 12"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 6: Muscle Bustle - Part 2Dr Pepper and Beach Party Movie magic!2020-11-061h 16"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 6: Muscle Bustle - Part 1The mastermind of an ad campaign had something up his sleeve!
With special guest Lana Dale, wife of King of the Surf Guitar, Dick Dale ("Muscle Beach Party").2020-11-061h 12"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast*Bonus episode* Chapter 5: These Are the Good Times - Part 4 - JFK Assassination22 November, 1963. Donna is in Dallas preparing to be introduced as the Dr Pepper Girl. Down the road, President Kennedy's motorcade rides through Dealey Plaza.2020-10-231h 01"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 5: These Are the Good Times - Part 3Donna and Adam break it down! How much Dr Pepper does it take to film a 1-minute TV spot? What’s it like to co-host a national TV special with Dick Clark? And what went down when Donna was on the bill with Marvin Gaye and The Beach Boys at the Cow Palace?2020-10-1553 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 5: These Are the Good Times - Part 2 with special guest Alison MartinoDonna chats with Alison Martino, founder of Vintage Los Angeles and daughter of Donna's Capitol Records stablemate Al Martino, all things mid-century.2020-10-1546 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 5: These Are the Good Times - Part 1Summer, 1963 - Say Goodbye to school, Donna, and hello to Dr Pepper, Dick Clark, Marvin Gaye, and a star-studded Celebrity Party with Frankie and Annette.
Includes a preview of Donna's interview with Alison Martino of Vintage Los Angeles.2020-10-1539 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 4: Good Times Begin with Dr PepperLiving the American Dream! Donna is chosen as the Dr Pepper Girl.2020-10-0158 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 3: Hands Off - Part 3A bone of contention? As momentum was building with Donna's career, her body was changing and so was her nose. Obligatory cosmetic surgery fixed that!2020-09-1841 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 3: Hands Off - Part 2Down the rabbit hole! Donna takes a trip to magical San Francisco and has a date with a teen idol.
With special guest Carl Scott.2020-09-1845 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 3: Hands Off - Part 1Too old for toys, too young for boys. It's awkward being a preteen when the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Plus Glen Campbell, James Burton, and Jerry Naylor - and Donna gets the curtain closed on her mid-performance! 2020-09-181h 00"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 2: Here's Your Ears - Part 2On "The Mickey Mouse Club", Donna celebrates her 10th birthday.2020-09-0343 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 2: I Didn't Know the Gun Was Loaded - Part 1Swinging on a star? Or would you rather be loved by your mom?2020-09-0344 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastChapter 1: It Only Hurts When I CryLies, abandonment, rejection; Donna's spirit rises above.2020-08-2147 min"Love's A Secret Weapon" PodcastBeginnings: Batman and BeyondHoly moly Batman! In this first episode, Donna and Dr Adam talk about Donna's role as Susie the Cheerleader on Batman.2020-08-1434 min