Bob Barry's Unearthed Interviews

Ted Koppel is a name that resonates with anyone who values in-depth journalism. As the former anchor of "Nightline" and a distinguished journalist, Ted is a true legend in the field of broadcasting. He spent decades covering the most significant events of our time, from political upheavals to global crises. He offered insights on the state of journalism and the challenges facing media. At the time...

Hugh Hefner was the founder of Playboy Magazine. He was not just the publisher, he was the visionary who changed the landscape of media, sexuality, and lifestyle. His career spanned over six decades. Hef helped to bring about sexual liberation, creating a brand that became a global phenomenon. In the 70s I was invited to the Playboy Mansion in Chicago. Hugh was introducing his girlfriend Barbi Ben...

You may know her as the beloved Blair Warner from the iconic TV series "The Facts of Life," or as a Mouseketeer on the Micky Mouse Club. But Lisa Whelchel is so much more than just a familiar face from your childhood. She's a talented actress, singer, author, and motivational speaker who has touched the hearts of many with her authenticity and passion. Lisa tied for second place on the reality ser...

Today's podcast features Nick Reynolds, one of the founding members of the Kingston Trio. They became known for their tight harmonies and lively stage presence. One of the trio's biggest hits was "Tom Dooley," which was number one on the Billboard charts and earned them a Grammy Award. The Trio had many more hits, including "Where Have All the Flowers Gone," "Scotch and Soda," and "Greenback Dolla...

Michael Reagan was the adopted son of Ronald Reagan and his first wife Jane Wyman. He had a small role in television on "Falcon Crest" with his mother. Michael grew up in the shadow of his father but found his own path in politics. He was a radio host and public speaker, drawing from personal experiences growing up in a political family. He has promoted the legacy of his father and promoted charit...

I think we have all seen the television series "Mission Impossible." Martin Landau and Barbara Bain had leading roles in that series. Martin was also in Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest," "Cleopatra" and "The Greatest Story Ever Told."  He won an Oscar, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild award for his role as Bela Lugosi in "Ed Wood." He was the head of the Actors Studio, beating out Steve...

Actor Sir Michael Caine was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 2000 for his contributions to the arts and received numerous accolades throughout his career including two Oscars and many Golden Globe awards. His distinctive cockney accent got him many film roles including "The Italian Job," "Educating Rita," "Hannah and Her Sisters," "Alfie," and "Dunkirk." Maybe you remember his performance as Ebeneze...

Pat Boone is a direct descendant of Daniel Boone. He was married to country singer Red Foley's daughter, Shirley. He hosted 115 episodes of The Pat Boone – Chevy Showroom and appeared in 15 movies. One of his four daughters is Debby Boone. She had a number one record in 1977, "You Light Up My Life." Pat held the record for spending 220 consecutive weeks on the Billboard charts. In the 1950s Billbo...

Julia Child was a larger-than-life culinary icon, known for bringing French cuisine to American home kitchens. She had an infectious personality and unbridled enthusiasm. Her popular TV show "The French Chef" made her a household name. With her distinctive voice and charming demeanor, Julia made cooking fun for everyone. She will always be remembered as a pioneer in the world of food television.

Richard Simmons was an American fitness and health guru loved for his energetic personality and motivational approach to wellness. He rose to fame in the 70s and 80s with his unique exercise programs and flamboyant style. Simmons created the iconic "Sweatin' to the Oldies" workout videos. He was also known for supporting various charitable causes. Richard had a passion for others and left a lastin...

Most young people have never heard of Pat O'Brien. He was a popular actor who appeared in more than 100 films, playing mostly Irish American characters. He played priests, cops, and members of the military. He had starring roles in "Knute Rockne, All American," with Ronald Reagan playing the part of George Gipp. In the film, Rockne used a slogan that was used in Reagan's campaign for president in...

Remember the 1985 TV commercial for Miller Lite, in which Yakov Smirnoff says "In America, there is plenty of lite beer and you can always in a party. In Russia, party always finds you." Yakov was born in Odesa, Ukraine. He defected to the U.S.A. in 1977. Yakov had a lot of success in the United States which led to his line: "What a country." Beside stand-up comedy he had roles in "Moscow on the H...

It was exactly 60 years ago today that the Beatles came to play at the Milwaukee arena in front of 11,838 ecstatic fans! September 4, 1964, the Beatles were at the height of their fame at this point and their arrival in Milwaukee was met with a frenzy of excitement.  Once they arrived at the Coach House Inn on 19th and Wisconsin Avenue, the Beatles were quickly ushered inside where they held a pre...

Ray Scott was best known for his play-by-play broadcasts of the Green Bay Packers, along with Tony Canadeo. He was one of my all-time favorite sports announcers. With the CBS broadcast team he worked with Pat Summerall. He called the 1965 World Series on NBC television with Vin Scully. He also called the Milwaukee Brewers telecasts in 1976-77. In this podcast he'll talk about the Packers and give...

The Phil Donahue Show was the first talk show format that included audience participation. He was one of the most influential talk show hosts in television history. His show tackled controversial and taboo topics, giving voice to marginalized voices and sparking important conversations. From politics to social issues, no topic was off-limits, from women's rights to LGBTQ rights. Phil Donahue was a...

Until 1976, Dennis James appeared on television more times than any other TV star. He was the first person to raise more than $750 million for United Cerebral Palsy. He hosted the Cerebral Palsy Telethon for 47 years with Paul Anka, Florence Henderson, and others. Dennis started out in radio at WAAT in Jersey City and then WNEW in New York City.  On television he worked on "The Price is Right," "L...