Deep Threads with Dean Balsamini

Veteran baseball writer Kevin Kernan returns to the Deep Threads Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about the New York Yankees, postseason baseball, analytics, clubhouse chemistry, and a simple idea that seems almost radical in today’s game: Baseball works. Kernan has spent nearly five decades covering professional sports, including 23 years as a columnist for the New York Post . He is the au...

Before social media, before streaming, and before metal became mainstream, there was L’Amour. In Episode 28 of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with Chuck Kaye, the legendary DJ, MC, promoter and larger-than-life personality known as “The Roar of L’Amour,” for a trip inside one of the most important heavy metal clubs of the 1980s. Located in Brooklyn, L’Amour became a desti...

A fraction of a second can become history. In Episode 27 of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with acclaimed documentary photographer Robert A. Cumins , whose extraordinary career has taken him around the world photographing presidents, prime ministers, historic peace agreements, humanitarian missions, and some of the defining events of the past half-century. But the photogr...

What does it take to become the musician other great musicians trust when anything can happen onstage? In Episode 26 of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with Jeff Kazee — acclaimed keyboardist, songwriter, producer, vocalist, musical director, and longtime bandleader for Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes — for a wide-ranging conversation about a life spent at the hear...

As America marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, filmmaker Michael Gier is telling a different kind of 9/11 story—one focused not only on tragedy and loss, but on the extraordinary heroism, resilience, compassion, and unity that emerged in its aftermath. In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with the award-winning director and producer of The Heroi...

Few artists embody the spirit of New York rock ’n’ roll like Willie Nile . In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with the legendary singer-songwriter for an inspiring conversation about songwriting, resilience, the golden era of CBGB, and the stories behind his acclaimed new album, The Great Yellow Light . Willie reflects on more than five decades of music, fr...

What does it sound like when someone truly loves what they do? Ask award-winning sound designer and mixer Bill Donnelly , and he'll tell you: "When I'm working, I'm not working." In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with the Staten Island-based audio wizard whose remarkable career has touched some of the biggest names in music, film, television, and live spor...

What does it take to craft the perfect tabloid headline under pressure? In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast , host Dean Balsamini sits down with Bob McCormick , former copy chief of the New York Daily News and a veteran of more than four decades in American journalism, for an unforgettable journey through the golden age of New York City newspapers. Bob reveals what life was really like ins...

What is really happening inside the NYPD? Is crime truly declining, and how have policing, leadership, and public safety changed over the past three decades? In this episode of Deep Threads , Dean Balsamini sits down with Michael Alcazar , a retired NYPD Detective , criminal justice professor at John Jay College , and nationally recognized law enforcement expert, for an in-depth conversation about...

What drives political movements? How do charismatic leaders capture public attention? And what can decades of investigative reporting teach us about power, corruption, and the people behind the headlines? In this episode of Deep Threads , veteran investigative journalist Robert Gavin , Albany Bureau Chief for The Buffalo News , joins Dean Balsamini for a wide-ranging conversation about New York po...

What does it take to become one of the world's premier ballet artists? How do creativity, discipline, and resilience shape a lifetime in dance? In this episode of Deep Threads , Dean Balsamini sits down with acclaimed dancer, choreographer, actress, and writer Antonia Franceschi for a fascinating conversation about artistry, performance, and the enduring power of storytelling through movement. Fro...

In this episode, Johnny Pisano shares his incredible journey through the music industry, from punk rock roots to touring with Willie Nile, and balancing a diverse career with dedication and passion. Discover insights on musical evolution, work ethic, and making a difference through art. In the world of music, stories of perseverance and passion often resonate with audiences. Johnny Pisano, a veter...

In this engaging interview, Paul Ward, a veteran public relations executive, shares behind-the-scenes stories from his career in TV and celebrity management. Discover how classic TV shows were promoted, the art of celebrity engagement, and the secrets behind successful PR campaigns that celebrated television history. Learn more: An Interview with Paul Ward Grom Social Enterprises making progress t...

Join us as we explore the fascinating intersection of Irish American history, politics, and detective fiction with Terry Golway, author of 'Terror from America'. Discover how historical figures and events inspired a unique Sherlock Holmes adventure set in 1885 New York, blending real history with compelling storytelling. Learn more: https://www.terrygolway.com/ Buy Terror from America: A Sherlock...

In this in-depth interview, Terre Roche shares her fascinating journey from being discovered by Paul Simon to her experiences with the Roche Sisters, her family, and her musical career. She discusses her early days, family dynamics, the challenges of the music industry, and her upcoming performances, offering insights into creativity, resilience, and the power of music. Learn more: https://www.ter...

In this engaging interview, Ray Heffernan shares the inspiring story behind the Hamilton Park House Concerts in Staten Island, NY, his journey from a passionate music fan to a successful host of intimate concerts featuring renowned artists. Discover how he curates his series, the challenges and rewards of hosting live music in a private setting, and his insights into the evolving landscape of live...

Discover the journey behind "Wilcopedia," a comprehensive guide to Wilco’s music, and learn how Daniel Cook Johnson turned a passion into a published book.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating career of veteran journalist Philip Messing, exploring iconic cases, the evolution of journalism, and the colorful personalities that shaped New York City’s history.

Filmmaker Robert Longo shares his journey into horror filmmaking, the creation of the Ghosts in the Grove series, and insights into the horror genre's renaissance. Discover his storytelling techniques, favorite films, and plans for his streaming service launching on May 1st.

Dave Fletcher traces his path from the digital world to building an artisan coffee business from the ground up. A candid conversation about craft, obsession, and what it really takes to make something with your hands in a screen-first world.

MLB umpire Phil Cuzzi opens up about decades behind the plate, the split-second decisions that define careers, the abuse fans never see up close, and the life of a man tasked with being right every single time.

Gianni Russo — Carlo Corleone in The Godfather — shares stories from a life that made the movie look tame. Mob connections, Hollywood legends, and the story of how James Caan almost got whacked for real.

Olympian Bob Giordano reflects on the political decision that stole the defining moment of his athletic career. A first-person account of what it meant to train for years toward a moment that a president's pen took away.

Veteran sports journalist Harvey Araton examines what the youth sports industrial complex is doing to families, kids, and the pure love of the game. A conversation about money, pressure, and the childhood we're selling off one travel team at a time.

Coach Jaime Ortiz, who coached Sam Darnold from high school, gives an unfiltered portrait of the quarterback's development — the humility, the work ethic, and what he saw in Darnold before the NFL spotlight found him.