Deep Threads with Dean Balsamini

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.

Legendary New York sportswriter Kevin Kernan on a career spent in locker rooms, press boxes, and the company of greatness — from George Steinbrenner's legendary temper to Thurman Munson's Hall of Fame case. An essential conversation for any New York sports fan.

Black 47 frontman Larry Kirwan on music, rebellion, Irish-American identity, and what it means to make art in polarized times. Kirwan has been writing songs about America's contradictions for decades — and he's not done.

Civil rights attorney Ron Kuby traces the arc of Donald Trump's public life — from New York tabloid fixture to the most polarizing political force in American history. A lawyer's take on power, law, and the man who keeps breaking the rules.

How does a kid from suburban Cincinnati become one of the most recognizable people in the world? In this episode of Deep Threads , Dean Balsamini sits down with Robert Burck —better known as The Naked Cowboy —for an unforgettable conversation about ambition, discipline, entrepreneurship, and the remarkable journey behind one of New York City's most enduring icons. Burck shares how reading Tony Rob...