Bob Barry's Unearthed Interviews

The music of the 60s and 70s was groundbreaking and it set the stage for the decades of amazing music that followed it. Milwaukee radio legend and Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Barry spoke with countless musicians and celebrities over the years and collected remarkable recordings of his encounters with these talented people, which he's now sharing with the public in this podcast. He spoke with Sonny and Cher, James Brown, Dolly Parton, and and many others, and they shared their amazing stories about their lives and careers. All the episodes will be available as they’re released at WisconsinBroadcastingMuseum.org. This podcast was made possible by a generous contribution from Terry Baun.

Carroll Baker 11/12/2025

Carroll Baker On today’s podcast you’ll hear from a Hollywood icon and a woman who’s been carried off the set, after a Clark Gable kiss. She was very young when she saw “Gone With the Wind,” and fell in love with Gable. She said he was an old man then, but she was head over heals in love with him, even though she was married. Carroll Baker was the star of “Baby Doll” and “Giant,” and turned down the role in “Rebel Without a Cause” because she disliked the script. She and James Dean were a pair of snobby method actors on the set of “Giant,” until Liz Taylor swooped in and stole the spotlight. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35424050

Elke Sommer 11/05/2025

Elke Sommer Welcome to the podcast. Thanks for listening. If you’re enjoying these memories, please subscribe to our channel or Google the Wisconsin Broadcast Association Museum. Today we’re stepping into the glittering world of 1960s Hollywood with a guest who lit up both the Silver Screen and the international stage. Born in Germany and discovered while vacationing in Italy, Elke Sommer became one of the most recognizable European stars to conquer Hollywood, starring alongside legends like Peter Sellers, Paul Newman, and Bob Hope. Known for her striking beauty, quick wit, and undeniable charm, she brought a unique blend of sophistication and playfulness to every role, from comedies to thrillers. Beyond acting, Elke is a talented painter, writer, and a woman whose life is as fascinating as her film career. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/38158200

Muhammad Ali 10/29/2025

Muhammad Ali For fight fans and lovers of greatness we have the man who floated like a butterfly, stung like a bee and shook up the world, Muhammad Ali. In his career he won 56 fights and only lost five. On Oct. 29, 1960, he made his fight debut, the same year he threw his Olympic medal into the Ohio River after being refused service at a restaurant. On this day we caught up with the champ while he was in the hospital. At the time he said he would fight again, and he did, losing to Larry Holmes in an 11 round TKO and in 10 rounds to Trevor Berbick in 1981. The Holmes fight, they said, contributed to his Parkinson’s syndrome. But as you will hear, he always kept his dignity. The photo is from another interview at the Coach House Inn in Milwaukee. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/36374630

Nancy Lane 10/22/2025

Nancy Lane You probably don’t recognize her name but you might remember her as the spunky scene-stealing Tina Molinari from the TV show “Rhoda” or from “Taxi” or “Young Doctors in Love.” Nancy lane has worked alongside some of the biggest names in television, bringing humor and heart to every role she’s played. At the time she was starring with Jim Carrey in a comedy called “The Duck Factory.” If you’d like to see Nancy and the funny cast of this show, you can watch it on YouTube. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35673100

Myron Cohen 10/15/2025

Myron Cohen Welcome to today’s podcast. Our guest is a master of the well-timed….pause, the raised eyebrow, and the story that sneaks up on you with a punchline you didn’t see coming. He’s a man who could tell a joke so good you’d swear you’d heard it in your own family, but somehow, it’s funnier when he tells it. From the Catskills to the “Ed Sullivan Show,” he entertained America with wit, warmth and a knack for finding humor in everyday life. He’s the legendary storyteller and comedian, Myron Cohen. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/38157805

Bud Selig 10/08/2025

Bud Selig Today’s guest is someone who’s been at the center of baseball for decades, not just a fan of the game, but as someone who helped shape the way we know it today. We’re talking about the former Commissioner of Baseball, Bud Selig. He led the league for more than 20 years, through some of the biggest changes and challenges the sport has ever seen. Things like the wild card and expanded playoffs, interleague play, and landmark achievements like record-breaking attendance. Love him, or debate him, there’s no question his time in charge left a lasting mark on the game. But beyond the headlines and history, Bud is, at his core, just a lifelong baseball guy, someone who grew up loving the sport and never let go of it. Today we’ll hear some stories and talk about baseball from the man who lived it at every level. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/37967740

Ron Howard 10/01/2025

Ron Howard On today’s podcast we’re joined by someone who really needs no introduction, Ron Howard. You know him from the “Andy Griffith Show,” “Happy Days,” and of course his incredible directing career with films like “Apollo 13” and “A Beautiful Mind.” But today, we’re talking about a project that’s especially meaningful during disability awareness month, his 1980 film “Skyward,” which can be watched on YouTube. It’s the story of a young woman in a wheelchair who refuses to let her disability stop her from pursuing her dream of flying. The film is uplifting, inspiring, and still resonates today. Ron tells about a co-worker who helped him make the film and some of his thoughts on the movie industry. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/38157675

Lula Parker Betenson 09/24/2025

Lula Parker Betenson Today we go behind the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” We’ll talk with Lula Parker Betenson, sister of the legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy. Now, before you picture tumbleweeds and shootouts, let me tell you, Lula has her own incredible stories to share, from growing up around one of the most famous names in the wild west to befriending Robert Redford. She’ll also reveal some fascinating family history that’s shaped her life. We’re going to dive into those stories, hear some surprises, and maybe even bust a few myths along the way. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/38310780

Dawn Wells 09/17/2025

Dawn Wells Grab your coconut radios and set sail for a nostalgia-packed adventure. Today we have a legend of the small screen, the woman who made the girl next door an island icon…Dawn Wells. We’re talking about “Gilligan’s Island,” and her character Mary Ann. We’ll dive into her incredible career and her love for theater. So, kick off your shoes, pour yourself a drink with the umbrella in it, and let’s get shipwrecked in the best way possible. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/36127095

Rock Hudson 09/10/2025

Rock Hudson Thanks for listening to Bob Barry’s Unearthed Interviews. Today we step back into the golden age of Hollywood with a true screen legend. He was the epitome of charm, the king of the silver screen, and the man who made romance look effortless. We’re talking about the one and only Rock Hudson. We’ll go behind the scenes for the love and laugh-out-loud moments and hear about his latest film, which was, believe it or not, R rated. He’s given us the skinny on the skin flick. So let’s roll back the reel with one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable stars, Rock Hudson. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/36099430

Phyllis George 09/03/2025

Phyllis George Today we have an absolute legend joining us on the podcast. She was a trailblazer, sports broadcaster, former Miss America and businesswoman extraordinaire. Phyllis George made history as one of the first women in sports broadcasting, became the First Lady of Kentucky through her marriage to Governor John Brown. And if that weren’t impressive enough, she’s also the proud mother of businesswoman and CNN anchor Pamela Brown. When we interviewed her she had just become Miss America. She talks about that experience and promises to come to WOKY in person, which she did a short time later. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35780070

Joan Van Ark - "Knots Landing" 08/27/2025

Joan Van Ark - "Knots Landing" Welcome to another episode of Bob Barry’s Unearthed Interviews. Thanks for joining us. Today we have a truly special guest joining us. You know her as the iconic Valene Ewing from the classic series “Knots Landing.” She was a beloved face in film and television for decades. She’s not just a talented actress, but also a vibrant spirit with a wealth of very different experiences to share. We’ll uncover the stories behind the scenes and the laughter that kept her going. Wait until you hear how she got into showbiz! /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35779935

Kenny Baker 08/20/2025

Kenny Baker On today’s podcast we go inside the dome, literally, with the man who made R2D2 beep, boop, and sass his way into cinematic history. We’re talking about Kenny Baker - actor, icon and the only guy in Hollywood who could say “I am the droid you’re lookin’ for,” and actually mean it. He survived the deserts of Tunisia, arguments with C-3PO and probably more sand than Anakin Skywalker could emotionally handle. Forget the force, this man endured being locked inside a metal garbage can in 100-degree weather for our entertainment. That’s dedication. This is Kenny Baker, the man, the droid, the legend. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/37482755

Catherine Hicks 08/13/2025

Catherine Hicks Today’s podcast features an incredibly talented and always delightful Catherine Hicks. You might remember her as the loving Annie Camden from “7th Heaven,” the brilliant Dr. Gillian Taylor who taught Captain Kirk a thing or two about whales in “Star Trek IV” and of course, the woman who had the unfortunate luck of buying a doll possessed by a serial killer in “Child’s Play.” But then, we’ve all made questionable shopping choices, right? But, did you also know she starred alongside Bill Murray in “Stripes?” She held her own against one of comedy’s greatest. She’ll comment on that experience. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35260760

Marilyn Beck 08/06/2025

Marilyn Beck Today is National Gossip Day. Everybody likes gossip. And there are people who make their living reporting on the juiciest tales from Hollywood. Marilyn Beck was the queen of Tinseltown Tidbits and the insider who had seen it all. She knew things she couldn’t print. Our conversation pulled back the velvet rope with star studded stories, behind the scenes gossip and maybe a few Hollywood secrets you’ve never heard before. We’ll take a rollicking ride through the glitz, glam, and giggles of showbiz. And, all of this happened before social media made it easy to get the scoop. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35744270

Karl Green 07/30/2025

Karl Green Our guest today is a founding member and the original bass guitarist of one of the most beloved bands of that era. The group that gave us; “I’m Into Something Good,” “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter,” and “Henry the Eighth.” Herman’s Hermits from Manchester, England. Karl Green was there when Herman’s Hermits became international stars, charming the world with cheeky humor, unforgettable hooks, and go old-fashioned showmanship. Karl makes reference to his recent appearance at “Let it Be” in Waukesha. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/37482645

Dwayne Hickman 07/23/2025

Dwayne Hickman If you grew up watching “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis,” you will remember the man who has been a part of some amazing moments in entertainment. Dwayne Hickman played the charming and relatable Dobie Gillis, one of the most iconic teen characters of that time. On this podcast we’ll talk about his early days as a child actor, his adventures in showbiz and the latest project he had going, which co-starred Michael J. Fox of “Family Ties,” Todd Bridges from “Different Strokes” and Nancy McKeon of “Facts of Life.” The movie was called “High School, USA,” which can be seen today on Tubi-TV. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35684390

John Glenn 07/16/2025

John Glenn Today’s podcast features a man who dared to dream beyond the horizon and then made it real. John Glenn was a true pioneer, a man who defied the limits of Earth and rewrote the story of human possibility. Marine, test pilot, astronaut, senator, and legend. He was the first American to orbit the earth and the first to remind us that courage isn’t a moment, it’s a way of living. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/36371625

Burt Young 07/09/2025

Burt Young In your lifetime, you have probably seen at least one “Rocky” movie. Today we go back to a light-hearted conversation with the actor who played Paulie in the Rocky series. Burt Young has always brought an irresistible blend of grit, humor, and heart to every performance. In this episode, we’ll be chatting about his journey through Tinseltown, sharing quirky behind-the-scenes tales and laughing through the lighter side of life. It’s Hollywood, with a wink and a nod. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us for a short, candid conversation with Burt Young. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35654295

Webb Pierce 07/02/2025

Webb Pierce “I’m in the Jailhouse Now” was the biggest hit for one of the most iconic honky-tonk singers of all time, Webb Pierce. This man wore more rhinestones than Liberace’s coffee table and had a voice smoother than Tennessee whiskey. Webb didn’t just play country music, he lived it. Music expert Joel Whitburn joins me in this interview. So, pour yourself a glass and get ready for a ride through the golden age of country with the man who brought the twang to town. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/37137305

Debbie Reynolds 06/25/2025

Debbie Reynolds Do you remember “Tammy,” and “Aba Daba Honeymoon? How about “Tammy and the Bachelor” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown?” I think all of us remember the movie “Singing in the Rain.” Today’s podcast goes back to a woman who danced toe-to-toe with Gene Kelly, stole scenes with her wit and could probably out-sing out-joke and out-charm all of us combined. Debbie Reynolds has some gossip from the time and will give advice on how to stay fabulous 24/7. And I loved the sexy way she answered the phone. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35580205

John Scheinfeld 06/18/2025

John Scheinfeld Imagine being the person who asks, “What the hell happened to Blood, Sweat and Tears?” Beside that documentary, John Scheinfeld, who is from Milwaukee, masterminded films like “The U.S. Vs. John Lennon,” “Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback” and “Who is Harry Nilsson and Why is Everybody Talking About Him?” John is an Emmy and Grammy-nominated filmmaker. I was working at WISN at the time and John wrote the catchy slogan: “Radio 11, WISN, of course.” You might have one of those bumper stickers, which I see selling on Ebay for $10.95. John surprised me at the end of the interview with a personal memory. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35481525

Christine Belford 06/11/2025

Christine Belford Imagine growing up in a house so infamous it inspired a horror franchise. Well, our guest on the podcast today did just that, living in the Amityville house in Long Island, New York from ages 11 to 16. Later the house became the setting of “The Amityville Horror.” But don’t worry, she’s here to share stories that are more delightful than frightful. You’ve seen her as Carlie Kirkland, the savvy insurance investigator on “Banacek,” and as Evelyn Stratton, Ricky Schroder’s sophisticated mother on “Silver Spoons.” She was in “The Gambler” with Kenny Rogers, “The Golden Girls” and “The Six Million Dollar Man.” We’re talking about the incredibly talented Christine Belford. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35456835

Matthew Labyorteaux 06/04/2025

Matthew Labyorteaux If you were a fan of “Little House on the Prairie,” an 80’s nostalgia buff, or anyone who just appreciates a good conversation, welcome to our Matthew Labyorteaux podcast. You know him as Albert Ingalls from “Little House,” or maybe you recognize his voice from some of your favorite animated adventures. He’s an actor, a voice artist and, let’s be real, probably made you shed a tear or two back in the day. And all of his success happened while he was struggling with autism. We’ll talk about his time on “Little House,” his gaming career with Atari, and his respect for Michael Landon. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35439195

Vic Tayback 05/28/2025

Vic Tayback Do you remember actor Vic Tayback. You probably know him best as the gruff but lovable Mel Sharples from the hit sitcom “Alice,” a role that made him a household name and earned him a Golden Globe. But Vic’s career spans decades, from classic films to unforgettable TV guest spots. He was a character who could do it all…tough, funny, and always unforgettable. So, let’s go behind the scenes with Vic Tayback. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35072695

Ian Whitcomb 05/21/2025

Ian Whitcomb Alright, creatures of the airwaves, and podcast people of impeccable taste, cancel your boring plans because today’s episode is bringing back memories you have surely forgotten. This man stormed the charts in the swingin’ sixties with his cheeky charm and one unforgettable falsetto that had everyone saying, “You Turn Me On.” That’s right, before Spotify, playlists, and TikTok trends, this man was topping the Billboard Top 100 and bringing the English Invasion straight to America’s front door. So, let’s travel back in time with the maestro of melodies, from ragtime to rock n roll, Ian Whitcomb. We caught up with Ian in the middle of a tour with Paul Revere and the Raiders. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/36220785

John Clive 05/14/2025

John Clive Welcome…I’m going to give you a trivia question that I’ll bet you will not know the answer to. Who was the voice of John Lennon in the animated film “Yellow Submarine?” He is a man whose talent has graced the big screen. And he has written some thrilling novels. He had unforgettable roles in classics like “A Clockwork Orange” and “The Italian Job.” But he was also a bestselling author, a storyteller with a brilliant sense of humor, and an artist with a fascinating career. John Clive was a fantastic guest that will make you laugh, think, and be entertained. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35408555

Tammy Wynette 05/07/2025

Tammy Wynette Howdy folks! Welcome to a Country version of Bob Barry’s Unearthed Interviews. Here’s a woman who’s iconic as a cowboy hat at a honky-tonk, the first lady of Country music, Tammy Wynette. She was born Wynette Pugh in Tremont, Mississippi. She went from cotton picking to picking up Grammy awards. She taught us all how to spell D-i-v-o-r-c-e. And Tammy reminded us to “Stand By Your Man,” even if he forgot to take out the trash. Tammy’s life was like a Country song come to life, full of love and heartbreak. She paved the way for women in Country music and proved that a big voice and bigger hair can take you straight to the top. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35363560

Lou Ferrigno 04/30/2025

Lou Ferrigno Sometimes on Bob Barry’s Unearthed Interviews we unearth incredible stories from incredible people, sometimes literally “The Incredible Hulk!” You know him as the green powerhouse who made smashing things look cool, before CGI took over Hollywood. But Lou Ferrigno is more than just muscle, he’s a world class bodybuilder, an actor, a fitness guru, and let’s be honest, probably the last guy you’d want to challenge to an arm-wrestling match. Beyond the biceps, Lou’s story is about determination, resilience, and proving that nothing, not even he a speech impediment and hearing loss could stop him from becoming a champion. So, buckle up and enjoy a few minutes with the legendary Lou Ferrigno. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35349220

Merlin Olsen 04/23/2025

Merlin Olsen From the gridiron to the broadcast booth, from Hollywood to humanitarian work, Merlin Olsen’s legacy stretches far beyond his hall of fame career with the Los Angeles Rams. Merlin was a fierce competitor on the field, as one of the greatest defensive linemen to ever play the game, and he was probably the nicest tough guy you‘d ever want to meet. So, whether you’re here for the football stories, the “Little House on the Prairie” Hollywood tales, or just some good old-fashioned wisdom, you’re in for a treat. So, let’s kick off our podcast with Merlin Olsen. /episode/index/show/bobbarry/id/35332505

Bob Barry's Unearthed Interviews

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