It's over for ShopHQ and Steve Sedahl from "Let's Bowl"
Are We On The Air?©
Buckle up for Part Two of our conversation with the always entertaining Steve Sedahl! This episode dives into the wild world of two lesser-known TV shopping networks Steve worked at — stories you definitely haven’t heard before. Then, we get into what everyone’s been waiting for: how Steve landed a role on Comedy Central’s cult classic Let’s Bowl, and what it was really like behind the scenes. But before the laughs, we touch on a somber note — the recent and unfortunate closure of Minnesota’s own ShopHQ (formerly Evine, Evine Live, ShopNBC and ValueVIsion), and what it means for...
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Steve Sedahl from CVN, ShopNBC and "Let's Bowl" fame
Are We On The Air?©
Everyone knows QVC and HSN, but back in the late 1980s, the dominant name in the world of TV shopping was the Cable Value Network—better known as CVN. On this episode, we rewind to 1986 and sit down with original CVN host Steve Sedahl. Best known to some as “Chopper” from the cult comedy series Let’s Bowl, Steve has enjoyed a long, dynamic career across multiple TV shopping networks. Today, he shares stories from the earliest days of the industry—what it was like behind the cameras, the wild west days of live selling, and how it all laid the groundwork for the shopping channels we...
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QVC/HSN layoffs announced
Are We On The Air?©
Breaking News: QVC/HSN has just announced that 900 employees are being let go as part of a major downsizing. So, how is ShopHQ still thriving and staying ahead in the game? Plus, we’re honoring the legacy of an infomercial icon, who we recently lost.
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QVC/HSN yearly results and more conversation with Bob Circosta
Are We On The Air?©
The latest annual results for QVC/HSN are in, and let's just say they're not looking pretty—that's the shocking first chapter of today's podcast. But don't worry, we’ve got something special in store after that! The legendary Bob Circosta returns to the show for an unforgettable walk down memory lane, reflecting on the golden days of HSN—the Home Shopping Network. Tune in for an emotional and nostalgic ride as we celebrate the moments that made HSN a household name!
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Looking back at HSN with Bob Circosta
Are We On The Air?©
Get ready for a blast from the past as we welcome Bob Circosta, the original HSN host (Home Shopping Club), to the podcast! With the iconic home of HSN in Tampa/St. Petersburg closing its doors and relocating to West Chester, PA, Bob takes us on a fun, behind-the-scenes journey. He'll share the fascinating origins of the network, the moment they realized they needed a bigger space, how the first hosts were chosen, and what makes legendary talents like Bobbi Ray Carter stand out. Tune in for stories, laughs, and all the juicy details you won’t want to miss!
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Rising star Aaron Kessler joins the podcast
Are We On The Air?©
In part two of our exclusive interview with Aaron Kessler—dubbed "the future of the TV shopping industry"—he opens up to Shawn about his childhood and the experiences that shaped him into the dynamic force he is today, so watch out QVC and HSN. But that's not all! Food lovers in Minneapolis and St. Paul, you’ll definitely want to tune in—Aaron's sharing some insider secrets that will have you hungry for more!
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HSN operations moving and Aaron Kessler from ShopHQ joins the show
Are We On The Air?©
Qurate Retail Group, the powerhouse behind both QVC and HSN, has made a bold move: they're shutting down the iconic HSN campus, which has been the heart of home shopping for decades. In 2025, all operations will be consolidated at QVC's state-of-the-art "Studio Park" facility in Pennsylvania. What does this major shift mean for the future of HSN and its dedicated team members? We dive into the impact and explore what's next. But that's not all! Joining us is the dynamic Aaron Kessler, the charismatic host of ShopHQ, which is also making waves with the announcement that its TV operations will...
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Manuela Marcheggiani of Isomers Skincare
Are We On The Air?©
Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the world of TV shopping and business innovation! In this episode, Manuela Marcheggiani, the co-founder and CEO of Isomers Skincare, sits down with host Shawn Wilsie to unravel the secrets of getting a product onto the screens of TV shopping channels. With over 30 years of experience working with giants like ShopHQ, ShopNBC, and other global networks, Manuela’s insights into the process are unmatched. But wait, there's more! Manuela also dives into the game-changing role of social media in modern business and how she leverages it to boost her...
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ShopHQ lays off most of staff
Are We On The Air?©
On December 18th 2024, most of the staff of ShopHQ was notified they were going to be out of a job in 60 days. That's the focus of this special episode.
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Host and Guests who have passed away, hosts who are leaving, and a network which went away.
Are We On The Air?©
After a three-month hiatus, the podcast is back, ready to dive into the latest buzz from the world of shopping networks, with a special spotlight on QVC. In this episode, we reflect on the heartbreaking losses of two beloved figures: the legendary Larry Muzzy, former Home Shopping Club host, and the iconic Chuck Woolery, famed game show host and QVC guest. From there, we shift gears to examine what’s in store for the shopping industry as we head into 2025. Major changes are on the horizon: another host is set to depart, QVC is placing a big bet on streaming, and—on a brighter note—we...
info_outlineGet ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the world of TV shopping and business innovation! In this episode, Manuela Marcheggiani, the co-founder and CEO of Isomers Skincare, sits down with host Shawn Wilsie to unravel the secrets of getting a product onto the screens of TV shopping channels. With over 30 years of experience working with giants like ShopHQ, ShopNBC, and other global networks, Manuela’s insights into the process are unmatched.
But wait, there's more! Manuela also dives into the game-changing role of social media in modern business and how she leverages it to boost her brand. Plus, she shares the exciting story behind her new skincare line—created with the help of none other than her son! Tune in as the conversation shifts to the joys (and challenges) of working with family, and the vision behind this innovative new venture. It’s a conversation packed with insider tips, entrepreneurial wisdom, and a dash of family magic. Don't miss it!