Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're joined by two incredible talents who helped shape the voices of our childhoods, Sonja Ball and Rick Jones! Sonja is best known for bringing to life beloved characters such as Wimzie on Wimzie's House, Jane Read (Arthur's mom) on Arthur, Huckle Cat on The Busy World of Richard Scarry, and Spookley from Spookley the Square Pumpkin. Rick voiced C.L.Y.D.E. in C.L.Y.D.E. and Fu-Fu on Sagwa, the Chinese Siamese Cat, and has worked extensively behind the mic as a talented voice director. Together, Sonja and Rick share stories from their careers, the joys and challenges of voice work, and the lasting impact of bringing characters to life that continue to spark nostalgia for fans young and old.
Special thanks to Jeff Zahn for connecting us!
Taping date: May 14, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.facebook.com/cbixby2000
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're thrilled to welcome writer and producer Scott Kraft! Scott has had an incredible impact on children's television, with a career spanning beloved animated and live-action projects. From his early work with Nelvana on classics like Rolie Polie Olie, George Shrinks, and Miss Spider's Sunny Patch Friends, to co-creating the musical hit The Fresh Beat Band with his wife and creative partner Nadine van der Velde, Scott's storytelling has delighted generations of young viewers. He also played a major role in some of the most popular preschool series of the last decade, serving as developer and executive producer on PAW Patrol and executive producer on Top Wing. Tune in for a nostalgic and insightful chat with one of children's TV's most influential creators!
Taping date: November 18, 2024
Edited by: Drew Wells
https://www.youtube.com/@drewsmediacorner399
https://www.instagram.com/drews_media_1/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we are joined by Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, best known to Playhouse Disney fans as Vivian, one of the beloved hosts of the preschool favorite Out of the Box! Vivian shares how she landed the role, her favorite songs and crafts from the show, what it was like to perform in the Playhouse Disney Live! tours, and so much more. We also dive into the lasting legacy of Out of the Box, the impact it's had on generations of kids, and how Vivian has carried her passion for music and education into her career today as a teacher and musical director.
Special thanks to Peter Lurye for connecting us!
Connect with Vivian!
https://www.tiktok.com/@vivianbayubaymclaughlin
https://www.instagram.com/mclaughlin_vb/
Taping date: March 8, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.facebook.com/cbixby2000
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we welcome television and film producer Dete Meserve. Dete shares her journey from serving as executive producer on the PBS Kids hit Ready Jet Go! to taking the reins as executive producer and showrunner of Weather Hunters, the newest PBS Kids series created by America's beloved weathercaster Al Roker. This conversation touches on the importance of teaching kids about weather and science in fun, accessible ways, what it's like to collaborate with Al on this groundbreaking project, and more.
Check out Weather Hunters!
https://pbskids.org/weatherhunters
https://www.instagram.com/weatherhunters/
Connect with Dete!
https://www.facebook.com/GoodSamBook
https://www.instagram.com/detemeserve
Taping date: September 16, 2025
Edited by: Simon A. (Baby Lamb Creations)
https://www.youtube.com/@BabyLambCreations
https://www.tiktok.com/@babylambcreations
https://www.instagram.com/babylambcreations/
https://www.reddit.com/user/BabyLambCreationsYT/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we welcome actor, writer, producer, and creator Wesley Eure! Known to millions for his role as Michael Horton on Days of Our Lives and as Will Marshall on the beloved sci-fi adventure Land of the Lost, Wesley's career spans across soap operas, television, film, and children's entertainment. He's appeared in series like Insight and CHiPs, acted in films such as C.H.O.M.P.S., Tool Box Murders, and Jennifer, and even hosted the Nickelodeon game show Finders Keepers. Beyond acting, Wesley co-developed the hit PBS Kids series Dragon Tales, has written books, and continues to use his platform for meaningful charitable work. Join us as we look back on his remarkable journey, the stories behind his most iconic roles, and his passion for bringing joy and imagination to audiences of all ages!
Keep up with Wesley!
https://www.tiktok.com/@wesleyeure
https://www.facebook.com/WesleyEure/
https://www.instagram.com/wesleyeure/
https://www.threads.com/@wesleyeure
Taping date: May 12, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.facebook.com/cbixby2000
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're thrilled to welcome back voice actress and children's musical artist Debi Derryberry for her third appearance! Beloved for bringing countless animated characters to life, Debi now turns her talents toward soothing songs with her brand-new lullaby album, Go to Sleep, releasing September 26th. In this episode, Debi shares the inspiration behind the album, the creative process of crafting music to calm and comfort, and how her lifelong connection to kids' entertainment continues to evolve. Whether you know her voice from countless cartoons or her children's music, this conversation is full of heart, nostalgia, and a little preview of the sweet dreams to come.
Check out Debi's upcoming children's album, Go to Sleep!
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL--vHWNY-DoqX0TfI2BEwqUzUn1QsPUGS
https://open.spotify.com/album/0Z8YldFXEWKv8zQkGav5nR
https://music.apple.com/us/album/go-to-sleep-lullaby-album/1822123953
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FF38NGQL
Keep up with Debi!
https://www.debiderryberry.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@debiderryberry
https://www.facebook.com/DebiDerryberryVO
https://www.instagram.com/debiderryberry/
https://www.instagram.com/debiderryberrykids
https://www.youtube.com/@DebiDerryberryKIDS
Taping date: August 2, 2025
Edited by: Miles
https://www.youtube.com/@Miles02109
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we welcome acclaimed music supervisor and composer Jeff Zahn, whose work has soundtracked some of the most beloved children's television of the past three decades. Jeff's credits include iconic series like Are You Afraid of the Dark?, The Busy World of Richard Scarry, Madeline, Arthur, Wimzie's House, and Caillou—for which he also wrote the unforgettable theme song. Jeff composed the music for the film Spookley the Square Pumpkin and has created tunes for Playhouse Disney and The Jim Henson Company. Join us as Jeff shares the stories behind his career, what goes into scoring for children's media, and how music becomes the heartbeat of shows that families treasure for years to come.
Special thanks to Judy Rothman Rofé for connecting us!
Keep up with Jeff!
https://www.jeffzahnmusic.com/
Taping date: December 13, 2024
Edited by: Drew Wells
https://www.youtube.com/@drewsmediacorner399
https://www.instagram.com/drews_media_1/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're joined by the talented children's director and producer Koyalee Chanda! Koyalee got her start on the groundbreaking Nick Jr. favorite Blue's Clues, where she directed and wrote episodes, directed the show's memorable "video letters", and even provided the original voice of the character Magenta. From there, her directing journey took her to SeeMore's Playhouse, Sesame Street's beloved "What's the Word on the Street?" segments, and beyond. She later stepped into producing roles as producer and co-executive producer on Wallykazam! and served as voice director on The Backyardigans. Join us as we look back on Koyalee's amazing career, the creativity behind these iconic shows, and the joy of shaping stories that continue to inspire kids and families everywhere.
Special thanks to Adam Peltzman for connecting us!
Keep up with Koyalee!
https://www.instagram.com/koyalee/
Taping date: March 3, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.facebook.com/cbixby2000
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we welcome actress, composer, and teaching artist Liz Filios! From 2010 to 2012, Liz brought joy to young viewers as one of the hosts of Sprout's morning block, The Sunny Side Up Show. Continuing her work with kids, she went on to create Storytime in the Zoom Room in 2020, a free interactive learning space for children and caretakers. Beyond her work in children's entertainment, Liz is an accomplished stage performer, with credits in productions like Into the Woods, Red Velvet, Vincent in Brixton, and An Iliad, where she was also a composer. Join us as we reminisce about her time on Sprout, explore her journey in the performing arts, and celebrate her dedication to inspiring and engaging audiences of all ages.
Taping date: November 11, 2024
Edited by: Drew Wells
https://www.youtube.com/@drewsmediacorner399
https://www.instagram.com/drews_media_1/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we honor another puppeteer who is no longer with us, by interviewing Jan Nelson, the wife of legendary puppeteer Jerry Nelson, best known for originating the roles of Count von Count and Herry Monster on Sesame Street, Floyd Pepper, Robin the Frog, and Lew Zealand on The Muppets, Gobo Fraggle on Fraggle Rock, and Emmet Otter on Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas, just to name a few. Join us as we discuss how her and Jerry met, getting to visit the sets of the projects Jerry worked on, his musical side, and just the overall impact Jerry's performance made around the world. A truly inspiring chat!
Taping date: January 20, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisB2000_YT
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we welcome back legendary puppeteer and puppet builder Jim Kroupa for a deeper dive into his career in the world of puppetry, after speaking to him previously for the Between the Lions reunion special. Jim got his start with The Jim Henson Company as an additional puppeteer on The Muppets Take Manhattan, and went on to bring countless beloved characters to life — from Batly on Eureeka's Castle, to Otto Otter and Jeremiah Tortoise on Bear in the Big Blue House, Walter Pigeon on Between the Lions, and Seymour on Johnny and the Sprites. As co-owner of the renowned 3/Design Studio, Jim and his team have helped create puppets for iconic productions including Eureeka's Castle, Between the Lions, The Great Space Coaster, Barney & Friends, and Wimzie's House, among many others. Known as a master of puppet mechanisms, he also shares his expertise as a teacher at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center's National Puppetry Conference. Join us for a fun conversation about Jim's creative process, behind-the-scenes stories from classic shows, the intricate art of puppet mechs, and the magic of making characters that generations of fans have loved.
Taping date: July 16, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisB2000_YT
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we spoke with Kristin DiQuollo and Chris Loggins, both of which who work for Fred Rogers Productions, where Kristin is a co-executive producer on Donkey Hodie and Chris is a supervising producer on Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. Our discussion today covers the upcoming crossover special, Daniel Tiger Visits Someplace Else. We talk about what went into bringing these two worlds together, the puppet versions of Daniel and his dad, the legacy of Mister Rogers, and so much more.
Catch Daniel Tiger Visits Someplace Else premiering on PBS Kids and streaming on the PBS Kids Video app on August 11th!
Taping date: August 1, 2025
Edited by: Simon A. (Baby Lamb Creations)
https://www.youtube.com/@BabyLambCreations
https://www.tiktok.com/@babylambcreations
https://www.instagram.com/babylambcreations/
https://www.reddit.com/user/BabyLambCreationsYT/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're joined by blogger and journalist Allison McClain Merrill! Allison is a travel writer and pop culture reporter who is best known for being a historian of one of television's most popular networks, Disney Channel! We discuss favorite shows and DCOMs, the golden era of Disney Channel, any favorite former TV stars she spoke with, and her upcoming book titled The Best of Both Worlds: How Disney Channel Became the Millennial Soundtrack. Don't miss another fun conversation down memory lane!
Special thanks to our guest co-host DJ Bob for joining us again!
https://www.instagram.com/djbobrunkel94/
https://www.facebook.com/thedjbobshow
https://www.instagram.com/djbobshowpodcast/
Connect with Allison and check out her work!
https://www.allisonmcclainmerrill.com/
https://www.instagram.com/pastfootforward/
Taping date: April 21, 2025
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisB2000_YT
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we're joined by actress Nitya Vidyasagar! From 2008 to 2015, Nitya was beloved by generations as Leela, one of the human characters on Sesame Street. She shares memories of her time on the iconic series, including performing in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, appearing alongside the Muppets on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and performing in the Jim Henson's Musical World concert at Carnegie Hall. She also discusses getting to return to her role for Sesame Street's 50th Anniversary Celebration special. Nitya also chats about her acting work beyond the Street, including roles on Suits, NCIS: Los Angeles, Troopers, All Rise, and her continued passion for stage work. A heartwarming and insightful conversation you won't want to miss!
Connect with Nitya and check out her work!
https://www.instagram.com/nityavidyasagar/
Taping date: November 9, 2024
Edited by: Simon A. (Baby Lamb Creations)
https://www.youtube.com/@BabyLambCreations
https://www.tiktok.com/@babylambcreations
https://www.instagram.com/babylambcreations/
https://www.reddit.com/user/BabyLambCreationsYT/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we talk all things Disney with Emmy-winning writer, producer, and director Bobs Gannaway! Bobs began his storied career at Disney developing the Timon & Pumbaa series and executive producing 101 Dalmatians: The Series with longtime collaborator Tony Craig. He went on to create Mickey Mouse Works and the fan-favorite Disney's House of Mouse. Bobs also brought beloved characters to the small screen with Lilo & Stitch: The Series, and was the creative force behind hit preschool favorites Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jake and the Never Land Pirates. In the world of feature animation, he co-wrote and directed Planes: Fire & Rescue, and more recently, created the Disney+ series Monsters at Work. Join us as Bobs shares stories from behind the scenes, the evolution of Disney television animation, and the joy of building worlds that entertain generations.
Taping date: December 6, 2024
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisB2000_YT
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, it's another dive into the world of puppetry and show business with puppeteer and actor Brian Jones! For several years, Brian brought characters to life with The Muppets, contributing to projects like Muppets Most Wanted and the 2015 ABC Muppets series. On stage, he wowed audiences with Puppet Up!, and beyond the world of puppetry, he showcased his acting chops in popular shows like Community, Bones, Wilfred, NCIS, and as Chad in Disney XD’s Gamer's Guide to Pretty Much Everything. Brian also honed his comedy and improv skills with Impro Theatre and The Groundlings. Join us as Brian reflects on his creative journey, the magic of performance, and what it takes to connect with audiences both behind the puppet and in front of the camera!
Taping date: November 5, 2024
Edited by: Drew Wells
https://www.youtube.com/@drewsmediacorner399
https://www.instagram.com/drews_media_1/
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we sit down with the incredibly versatile and accomplished session singer Randy Crenshaw! From Beetlejuice to The Nightmare Before Christmas, Randy's vocal work has been the hidden heartbeat of countless beloved films and series. For decades, he's lent his talent to a wide range of Disney projects — including the Winnie the Pooh franchise, The Thirteenth Year, and Phineas and Ferb. Randy also shares his experiences working with The Muppets and The Jim Henson Company, including his time on The Muppet Christmas Carol and the children's show Animal Jam. We also touch on his contributions to The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie, and the Scooby-Doo and Ice Age films. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!
Connect with Randy and check out his work!
Taping date: November 3, 2024
Edited by: Chris Bixby (Co-Host)
https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisB2000_YT
Be sure to check out our website, where you can learn more about the podcast and find how to follow the Happy Nostalgia team!
https://jakeshappynostalgiashow.weebly.com/
Listen to our podcast on Spotify and other audio platforms!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
This week, we talk puppetry and pop culture with the incredibly talented puppeteer and puppet builder John Cody! John shares his fascinating journey through the world of puppetry, from his freelance work on Sesame Street, including the Cookie Monster's Bake Sale specials and helping bring back fan-favorite Barkley, to performing at the beloved Sesame Street attractions. We also dive into his work on the Apple TV+ series Helpsters, puppeteering Paddington Bear in Paddington Gets in a Jam off-Broadway, SpongeBob SquarePants in Pineapple Playhouse, and building and designing puppets for the Winnie the Pooh stage musical. We also discuss John's involvement with the National Puppetry Conference at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center. It's a fun and insightful conversation filled with creativity, nostalgia, and a deep love for the art of puppetry.
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Katherine Pully, a former child actress best known for her role as Beth on Barney & Friends during Seasons 7 and 8! Katherine shares her memories of working on the beloved children's series, from what it was like filming with the iconic purple dinosaur to her favorite behind-the-scenes moments. She also reflects on how her time on Barney shaped her childhood, the friendships she made along the way, and what she's been up to since stepping away from the spotlight. Whether you grew up watching Barney or just love hearing nostalgic stories from former child stars, this heartwarming conversation is one you won't want to miss!
Welcome to Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show, the podcast where nostalgia comes alive!
In this episode, we're joined by the incredibly talented Canadian puppet artist and performer, Matt Ficner! Known for his unique characters and imaginative designs, Matt has brought countless puppets to life across television and film. We dive into his early work on The Noddy Shop, where he co-created the show's beloved puppets alongside the late Noreen Young and performed characters like Rusty, Lichtenstein, Fred, and Whiny. Matt also shares his experiences performing Teddy in the puppet segments of Caillou and reflects on his contributions to shows like Brats of the Lost Nebula, Planet Bizzaro: The World According to Zoomer, Ace Lightning, Wilbur, and more. Plus, we chat about his work on the TV movie The Creepy Puppet Project and his time on the 2007 film, Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium. It's a fun, fascinating conversation filled with nostalgia, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the art of puppetry!
Also, after several months, this is the final appearance of Matt Bingel on the podcast.
