Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar

It’s JIMMY Week on the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

This week, we are welcoming the creative minds behind the 2026 biopic JIMMY.

Co-produced and directed by Aaron Burns, the film is the untold true story of America’s most beloved actor, James Stewart, and the iconic role that saved him. From winning the Academy Award for Best Actor in The Philadelphia Story to enlisting and becoming a combat pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps at the beginning of World War II. He flew twenty missions over Europe, rose to colonel by the end of the war, and returned home broken and disheartened. Then, George Bailey and It’s a Wonderful Life came calling. The film stars KJ Apa as the entertainment legend, along with Max Casella, Kara Killmer, Julian Works, Sarah Drew, Rob Riggle, Jen Lilley, Neal McDonough, and Jason Alexander.

I am thrilled to welcome JIMMY’s musical supervisor, Barry Landis, to the podcast! Barry is the President of Pivot Music (an on-demand music service for Film and TV), Executive Director of The Briner Institute (a Tennessee 501c3 think tank dedicated to helping young people influence culture), the Founding Partner of the Faith in Entertainment Guild (a networking gathering of more than 4000 people working in faith-based storytelling) and the co-founder of the Ribbow Media Group, an online marketing firm on movies such as Jesus Revolution (Lionsgate/Kingdom Story), Paul, Apostle of Christ (Sony AFFIRM), The Shack (Lionsgate), Hacksaw Ridge (Summit Entertainment), War Room (Sony TriStar) and more than 150 others.

Before Ribbow, he was a partner in WTA (later acquired by K-LOVE) and led the marketing campaign for the theatrical launch of the first Pure Flix movie, God’s Not Dead, which earned more than $63 million at the box office. He is the Former Associate Publisher at Howard Books/Simon & Schuster, where he published fiction and nonfiction trade books, including 5 New York Times #1s, with authors like Dave Ramsey, the Robertson family of Duck Dynasty fame, and Karen Kingsbury. A Warner Bros. Records employee for 20 years, he was President of Word/Curb Records, where he launched POD and Plus One to multiple platinum albums and led the company in a remarkable financial turnaround by reestablishing one of the world’s leading country music artists, Randy Travis, back to prominence with the Country Music Song of the Year in 2003, “Three Wooden Crosses.” Christian Radio/Retail Weekly Magazine called him one of the Top 50 Most Influential People in America, and Worship Leader Magazine selected him as one of the 20 Most Influential Voices in Christian Music.

He is on the faculty at Belmont University in Nashville, where he teaches courses on Motion Pictures Marketing & Distribution and Record Company Operations. He started his “Christianity in the Entertainment Industry” course there in 2000, and it is now in its 25th year as a continuous course. He has been honored by two of the three universities where he holds degrees--in 2002 he was given the Outstanding Alumnus Award by Western Kentucky University, where he received his master’s degree, and in 2005 he was presented the Medallion Alumni Award from Mt. Vernon Nazarene University for his Outstanding Achievement in the field of Entertainment. In the book publishing world, he contributed to Devotional Ventures (Regal Press, 2006), edited What We Want to Say to Grads (David C Cook, 2009), wrote Get Wisdom (Briner Press, May 2019), and in 2024 became the publisher of Roaring Lambs.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Barry Landis spoke about working with Amy Grant, Randy Travis, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and shared his insights on working on JIMMY.

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Surprise!! I am delighted to share my latest collaboration with my friend, Marcus J. Anthony, EliteMJ_TV!

Marcus’s Elite-Verse has blossomed since he released the first episode of Pokémon: The Next Generation on February 21, 2024. The show takes place a decade after Ash Ketchum won the Pokémon World Championship and follows his biggest fan – Mark Masters, a Johto native who wants to follow in his footsteps. He began his journey after picking up his Charmander, Charlie (the daughter of Ash’s Charizard), at Professor Oak’s Laboratory, with newfound friends Rachel Stone (the daughter of Daisy Oak and the late Hoenn champion Stephen Stone) and Anthony Green (the nephew of Leaf Green). So far, Mark has earned five Kantonian gym badges and is building a team worthy of the Kanto Pokémon League.

As the story continues, it is revealed that a mysterious organization led by Mew-Z and an enigmatic Masked Woman kidnapped Ash and Pikachu; Mew-Z is a sinister Pokémon made from DNA from Mew, Mewtwo, Zygarde cells, and unknown entities. It has killed numerous legendary Pokémon. Only a few figures, including Mark, Rachel, Anthony, Looker, his niece Caroline, Leaf, and Goh, are aware of its existence and its vile intentions.

Outside of Mew-Z, Ash’s disappearance has forced the Pokémon League leadership to strip him of his title and create the Champion of Champions tournament to determine who will inherit it. Frontrunners Misty, Alan, Iris, and Tobias received a bye and will face off against first-round winners Jimmy, Kieran, Gladion, and the mysterious Riagon in the next round.

With all these characters to keep track of, the Elite-Verse is expanding once again with NG Chronicles. In the debut episode, my OG character is taking time away from the Champion of Champions tournament to investigate Pokémon Tower in Lavender Town. According to Looker and Caroline, the Masked Woman has been using the landmark as a hidden base. Meanwhile, Professor Gary Oak has also heard that the ghost of former Kantonian Elite Four member Agatha is back in the tower, and he is looking for a way to lift her curse on his family. What will they find? Plus, don’t miss a revelation that will rock the Elite-Verse to its core!

I want to give a special thank you to my friends, Brian and Nic, at GFM Recording Studios in Blue Springs, Missouri, for helping me to record my lines.

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It is a privilege to welcome SHOOP as a guest on the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

The PA-born and L.A.-based artist, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist stretches the boundaries of pop with his bare hands, leaning on an uncompromising no-fucks-given approach powered by live instrumentation, airtight songcraft, and a whole lot of attitude.

After graduating college, the Harrisburg, PA, native bounced between jobs, saved enough to move to New York City, and pursued music full-time by 2020. Locking in with intense focus, he grinded through countless studio sessions, landing his first major placement when he co-produced “Cowboy” for Allison Ponthier in 2021.

Establishing himself as a sought-after collaborator behind the scenes, his catalog expanded with the likes of “Writing’s On The Wall” for ROLE MODEL, “CYBAH" by Syd and Lucky Daye, “Heaven” for Maude Latour, and many more. Along the way, he hit the road with Biig Piig as her drummer. He joined Junior Varsity, performing and collaborating on projects such as Junior Varsity EP, Side B, and My Star EP.

After years as a sought-after collaborator, he steps into the spotlight with his debut EP, Never Better, his first for Epic Records, with much more to come. Ultimately, SHOOP cooks up music that could make you nod your head, shake your hips, and feel a little harder all at once.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, SHOOP talked about his collaborations with Junior Varsity, Role Model, and Syd, and shared the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs.

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It is a pleasure to welcome Sydney Segal to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

The Beverly Hills native-turned-New York City transplant began her Reality TV journey on Survivor 41. She was part of the dominant Luvu tribe, which avoided Tribal Council throughout the pre-merge portion of the game. After the apparent merge, Sydney won immunity, but a twist allowed eventual winner Erika Casupanan to revoke it, putting the future Challenge star in danger of being voted out. At Tribal Council, Sydney feared for her safety and played her “Shot in the Dark,” sacrificing her vote. Sadly, the risk didn't pay off, and she was voted out 5-4-3.

Four years later, Sydney Segal found herself on the long-running Reality TV show, The Challenge. During The Challenge 41: Vets and New Threats, she formed the nucleus of the New Threats alliance with fellow Survivor alum Dee Valladares, Canada’s Ultimate Challenge alum Leka Sodade, and the show’s eventual male winner (and The Amazing Race alum) Yeremi Hykel. Sydney won both the Runes My Life (with fellow New Threat Leo Dionicio) and Cyclone (with Yeremi) daily challenges, and for the second half of the season, she teamed up with The Challenge: War of the Worlds winner Turbo Camkiran [T]. The duo defeated show icon Ashley “Millionaire” Mitchell and Leo in the Weigh Me Up elimination and won the final two daily challenges, which secured their spot in TJ Lavin’s final; ultimately, they placed second, and she earned $25,000.

When Sydney returned for The Challenge 42: Cutthroat (2026), she was on an island as none of her closest allies were on the season. However, this season was a team format. Gray Team captain (and Survivor winner) Chris Underwood recruited her second and found herself on a team with fellow Vets vs. New Threats alumni Leo and Adrienne Naylor, newcomer Keanu Soto, and fan favorites Cassidy Clark, Cory Wharton, and Nurys Mateo. While the Gray team won two daily challenges, an ACL injury forced her out of the season.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sydney Segal took us behind her gameplay on both The Challenge: Vets & New Threats and The Challenge: Cutthroat (2026). Sydney also spoke about traveling to all seven wonders of the world!

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It is a pleasure to welcome Jennifer Fraser to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Jennifer is the creative and driving force behind Creative Canine Productions, bringing over four decades of experience in canine training, performance, and innovation. She is the first to develop and execute the integration of elite canine performance with acrobatics, dance, and theatrical staging at this level, building the concept from the ground up into a large-scale production. Through this process, Jennifer developed advanced canine training systems designed specifically for choreography, stage movement, timing, and seamless integration with human performers. She has personally trained the entire canine cast for performance, developing the trust, stability, and interaction required for complex live theatrical work. Jennifer raises and develops each canine performer in her home and training environment as part of her daily life and family.

This past summer, Jennifer Fraser and the Acro Canine Crew took center stage on NBC’s long-running talent competition, America’s Got Talent (AGT). The Acro Canine Crew combined jaw-dropping acrobatics with synchronized dog tricks that not only had the Pasadena Civic Auditorium audience on the edge of their seats but also received a standing ovation from judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and (series creator) Simon Cowell. They also received a Golden Buzzer from host Terry Crews and a spot in the AGT: Season 21 live shows.

Throughout the season, Acro Canine Crew set the standard for future animal acts, as Jennifer and her team delivered jaw-dropping, eye-pleasing performances that captured the nation’s hearts. Eventually, the team made the Top 10 and performed in the Season 21 Finale.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jennifer Fraser recapped Acro Canine Crew’s AGT journey and previewed Creative Canine Productions’ future.

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Happy Halloween Season, everyone!

This year, I have the privilege of welcoming the cast and creative team of the rising YouTube horror trivia game show, Better Luck Than Chuck, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Produced by Scotchworthy Productions and created by Tony Wash and Meredith Tummillo, Better Luck Than Chuck stars Alexis Allotta as the Widow, the self-proclaimed “Wittiest Witch of the Midwest,” and Adam Michaels as her sarcastic undead husband, Charlie. Better Luck Than Chuck combines horror knowledge, outrageous comedy, and nostalgic game show fun into a one-of-a-kind competition. Each episode features horror superfans battling through inventive "cate-GORY" challenges inspired by the films, monsters, and moments that have defined the genre.

New episodes of Better Luck Than Chuck debut every Thursday on the show's official YouTube channel, inviting horror lovers everywhere to test their genre knowledge alongside contestants competing for awesome prizes. The grand prize is a trip to experience Universal Halloween Horror Nights at either Universal Studios Hollywood or the Universal Orlando Resort.

But the scares don't stop when the credits roll. Each episode will contain a hidden clue that viewers can spot while watching. Once they uncover the clue, fans can visit https://betterluckthanchuck.com/UniversalSweeps/ to submit that week's entry for a chance to win the grand prize vacation.

Adding to the excitement, each episode features special guest question readers from some of horror's biggest names, including acclaimed filmmaker Mike Flanagan, producer Chad Villella (Radio Silence), music video and film director BJ McDonnell, and additional surprise guests from across the horror community. Their appearances help bring an extra layer of authenticity and fun to every episode while celebrating the creators and personalities who have helped shape modern horror.

On this Halloween edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Tony, Meredith, Alexis, and Ashley shared the origin story of Better Luck Than Chuck and its partnership with Universal Destinations and Experiences.

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It is a privilege to welcome Atlanime Fest founder Tolden “Troop” Williams and CMO and Managing Partner Eli Watkins to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Atlanime Fest celebrates Black identity and expression through anime. For a generation of Black fans raised on Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Atlanta rap, anime was never just something they watched. It shaped how they dress, how they talk, and the music they make. Atlanime Fest puts that culture on the main stage: cosplay next to streetwear, anime openings next to trap beats, and Black artists, animators, and creators telling their own stories. It's a space built by the community it serves, in the city that has shaped hip-hop for decades.

The festival grew out of Trap Sushi, the Atlanta party that Tolden and Stephanie Williams founded in 2020. The first event drew 25 people. Within three years, Trap Sushi was drawing crowds of around 2,500, made up of Black anime fans, gamers, and creators who hadn't found a home at traditional conventions. In October 2025, the first Atlanime Fest brought more than 3,500 people to Center Parc Stadium. This year, it became a full weekend.

This year’s Atlanime Fest will run from Thursday, October 15 to Sunday, October 18, and will take place at Monday Night Garage (on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday). Meanwhile, Saturday’s festivities will take place at the Underground Atlanta. Funny Marco and Pudgieee will host the main stage activities and performers such as Slim Jxmmi, Proper Frequency, Troop Brand, and Super-Duper Kyle are expected to take the main stage. In addition to performances, attendees can see jaw-dropping anime-wrapped cars, JDM classics, and custom rides at the Car Show Showcase. Gamers can compete at Sole Play-presented Gaming Lounge, while attendees can explore Artist Alley and vendor booths. The weekend will conclude on Sunday with a two-hour Celebrity Soccer Game and a massive closing party.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Troop and Eli shared Atlanime Fest’s origin story, how this festival stands out in the convention circuit, and previewed the Celebrity Soccer Game.

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It is a pleasure to welcome Buzz Lear to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

Buzz is the creator and host of The Vertical Buzz, a weekly media platform dedicated exclusively to the rapidly growing world of vertical entertainment. A veteran television host, actor, voice artist, and media professional with decades of experience in front of the camera, Buzz has appeared in more than 40 vertical drama productions while interviewing many of the industry’s most influential creators, executives, producers, directors, actors, and innovators.

As Hollywood undergoes one of its biggest storytelling shifts since the rise of streaming, Buzz offers a unique insider’s perspective on how mobile-first entertainment, creator-driven storytelling, and new distribution models are reshaping the future of film and television. Through The Vertical Buzz, Buzz has built relationships across the entire vertical entertainment landscape—from streaming platforms and studios to producers, directors, actors, writers, investors, technology companies, and industry organizations—giving him a broad view of one of the fastest-growing sectors in entertainment.

Buzz enjoys conversations that help audiences understand not only where the entertainment industry is today, but where it’s headed. Drawing on decades of experience in television, hosting, acting, and media, he connects emerging trends with real-world stories from the people building this new entertainment ecosystem.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Buzz Lear shares lessons he learned on the sets of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and House Detectives; gives us the 4-1-1 on vertical entertainment; and shares some of The Vertical Buzz’s most viral interviews.

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A Note from Jacob: It is hard to believe that this is the 450th milestone episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast! Thank you to all my incredible guests who took time out of their schedules to share their stories with my audience and the amazing publicists who trusted my platform. I also want to thank you, my loyal listeners, for listening and watching each episode! Cheers to another 450 episodes!

It is an honor to welcome the musical project Immersed as guests for the 450th episode! Immersed is made up of producers and recording artists Öwnboss & Scorsi!

The project emerged organically from the creative partnership between the two producers, who first collaborated under the Öwnboss & Scorsi name on their remix of Nari & Milani’s “Atom.” The remix quickly gained traction within the electronic community and entered the sets of artists including Steve Angello, where it remained a fixture for years. What began as a single collaboration soon revealed a deeper creative alignment, leading the pair to develop Immersed as a dedicated project built around groove, atmosphere, and a distinct sonic identity. The project has continued to gain momentum throughout 2026, recently taking the duo to New York City for a promotional run that included meetings at iHeartRadio headquarters, multiple on-camera interviews, and a pop-up DJ performance aboard the converted City Soul school bus, previously performed on by artists including Skrillex, Fred Again, and Four Tet.

Beyond Immersed, both artists have established themselves as prominent figures within global electronic music. Öwnboss is widely recognized for his breakout hit “Move Your Body,” which has surpassed 200 million streams worldwide and ranked as the fourth most-played track globally in 2022, according to 1001Tracklists. His music has been released on major labels including Spinnin’ Records, Monstercat, and Tiësto’s Musical Freedom, and he has performed at festivals such as Tomorrowland, Lollapalooza, Rock in Rio, Creamfields, and Ushuaïa Ibiza. Scorsi brings more than two decades of electronic music experience, with roots in drum & bass and a career spanning underground credibility and mainstream success, including releases and collaborations with artists such as ALOK, NGHTMRE, Autograf, and Tropkillaz.

On this milestone episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Öwnboss & Scorsi shared how they started Immersed, the stories behind some of their most streamed Spotify songs, and where they see the future of EDM.

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It is a privilege to welcome recording artist Trey Calloway to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

North Carolina-grown and Nashville-based, Trey grew up singing in church and was a seasoned performer by the age of ten. Although southern and contemporary gospel were his first musical loves, as a teen, Trey developed a deep understanding and passion for the rocking, boot-stomping storytelling of '90s country legends and has been writing and performing country music ever since. He has opened shows for Joe Diffie, Tracy Lawrence, McBride & The Ride, Pat Green, Edwin McCain, and Craig Campbell, and has played for audiences at the Charlotte Speed Street NASCAR Festival, the House of Blues, Billy Bob's Texas, and the Tennessee State Fair Opry Stage.

Since mid-2023, Trey has won Songwriter of the Year at the Texas Country Music Awards, had a music video featured on CMT, been added to Spotify editorial playlists, and has over four million streams on Spotify alone.

On November 6, Trey will release his new extended play, Honkytonk Generation. Introducing a new chapter in his music alongside producer and co-writer Phil O’Donnell. With more than two decades in the business, O’Donnell has penned No. 1 hits for George Strait, Blake Shelton, and Montgomery Gentry, and has also worked with Cody Johnson, Chris Janson, Craig Morgan, Clay Walker, Aaron Watson, and Craig Campbell. His experience and traditional country roots bring an exciting new element to Trey’s upcoming project.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Trey Calloway spoke about the lessons he learned from opening for Craig Morgan, Edwin McCain, Joe Diffie, and Pat Green and shared the stories behind his most-streamed songs, “Miss Gone by Morning,” “Truck Around,” and “Your Love is Safe with Me.”

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This is it!

Months ago, the America’s Got Talent (AGT) on-air team (Judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and franchise creator Simon Cowell) began their twenty-first search for their next $1 million champion.

After 14 Golden Buzzers, heartbreaking eliminations, and shocking results, we have our ten finalists! This is the most diverse set of finalists that we have seen in years! We have two dog acts (Acro Canine Crew and Olivia Befus), three dance acts (Come Here, Royal Lasers, and Unitree), an aerialist (Veronika Goroshkova), two magic acts (Geno Ploeger and Hundred Fingers), and two singers (Lai Noelle and Nene Royal).

I am also proud to say that SIX of the TEN finalists (Acro Canine Crew, Geno, Hundred Fingers, Nene, Royal Lasers, and Veronika) were Jake’s AGT Take’s Acts to Watch for Season 21!

Before we get to the final, there are two pieces of AGT breaking news that we need to get to... First, Britain’s Got Talent judge and social media superstar KSI stepped in for Simon, and second, TMZ reported that the long-running talent competition is among the shows leaving Hollywood. The entertainment news outlet reported that producers are looking into moving production to Georgia once Season 21 wraps. Despite four seasons on the East Coast, AGT has spent a majority of its run in the Golden State.

Tonight, they performed one final time for America’s votes! Which acts rose to the occasion and are one step closer to joining Terry Fator, Mat Franco, Grace VanderWaal, Shin Lim, Kodi Lee, Brandon Leake, the Mayyas, and Jessica Sanchez in the Winners’ Circle?

Listen on to find out!

Due to a previous obligation, this is the last Jake’s AGT Take episode dedicated to the Season 21 Live Shows. Thank you to everyone for listening!

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It’s a Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar EXCLUSIVE! It is a privilege to welcome Giselle Bonilla and Alexander Heller to the podcast!

Giselle is the director of the upcoming film The Musical, which Alexander Heller wrote. The movie stars Tony Award-winning actor Will Brill as Doug Liebowitz, a frustrated playwright and middle school drama teacher. Doug’s ex-girlfriend, Abigail (Gillian Jacobs), the school’s art teacher, is now dating his nemesis, Principal Brady (Rob Lowe, who also co-produced the film). To retaliate and undermine their school’s chances of winning a prestigious Blue Ribbon of Academic Excellence, Doug decides to turn the fall musical, West Side Story, into an original, controversial, chaotic production.

The film was selected for the U.S. Dramatic Competition at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, where it had its world premiere during the festival’s run from January 22 to 27, 2026. This festival marked the last time it would be held in Utah before relocating to its new home in Boulder, Colorado. The Musical is scheduled to be released nationwide on Friday, September 18.

For this special edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Alexander Heller and Giselle Bonilla shared how The Musical started out as a short film. They also revealed how Doug has shades of The Producers’ Max Bialystock and School of Rock’s Dewey Finn.

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America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 is nearing the homestretch!

After four weeks of quarterfinals, America has voted through 12 distinct acts into the Semifinals! Which acts rose to the occasion and delivered a performance worthy of America’s votes, and will join all four Live Golden Buzzer acts (Hundred Fingers, Nene Royal, Lai Neolle, and Unitree) in next week’s live finale? Listen on to find out!

Next week, the AGT: Season 21 finalists battle it out to inherit Jessica Sanchez’s crown and sash!

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I am delighted to welcome back my friend, GOHT Media founder and Zach Nichols Podcast co-host Pierre Bacall, to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Pierre is the Chief Executive Officer of GOHT Media, a Detroit, Michigan-based media company. He is also the co-host of The Zach Nichols Podcast, where he discusses the latest news in the Challenge universe with his longtime friend and show champion, Zach Nichols.

The duo has also welcomed numerous cast members for in-depth conversations about the show. Challenge icons Brad Fiorenza, Cara Maria Sorbello, Frank Sweeney Fox, Jordan Wiseley, Laurel Stucky, and Shane Landrum, along with fan favorites including Amber Borzotra, Jonna Mannion, Kyle Christie, Marie Roda, Paulie Calafiore, and Tony Raines, are amongst the cast members who dropped by to chat. They also hosted several live shows, where fans could interact with their favorites.

On September 23, 2026, Pierre will make his Reality TV debut on FOX’s sophomore season of 99 To Beat. Pierre is expected to compete against former Power Rangers actress Karan Ashley and Reality TV veterans Brandon Baxter (The Circle), Jordan Heller (The Golden Bachelorette), Kellie Nalbandian (Survivor), Quinn Martin (Big Brother), and Susan Noles (The Golden Bachelor). The Masked Singer panelist Ken Jeong and FOX Sports veteran Erin Andrews will return to host.

On this edition of the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Pierre Bacall spoke about several significant episodes of The Zach Nichols Podcast, including Paulie Calafiore’s 2026 return, Davis Mallory’s episode, which led to reconciling with Chris “CT” Tamburello, and filming at TJ Lavin’s house. Plus, Pierre also gave us a sneak preview of his Reality TV debut!

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It is a privilege to welcome back one of my all-time favorite guests, Emmy-winning actor, director, filmmaker, and host Yuval David, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Yuval has won over 100 international film festival awards. His creative mantra "to entertain, uplift and inspire" shapes his approach to “storytelling with boldness, vulnerability, and authenticity in representing characters and narratives.” Yuval uses his creative approach to communication within his work as a docu-journalist, news commentator, and socio-political activist.

As a filmmaker, Yuval directs, writes, and produces feature-length and short films, documentaries, web series, and digital and episodic TV content. His most recent feature length documentary is getting industry and media buzz, and is currently in the film festival circuit, titled Wonderfully Made – LGBTQ+R(eligion), and is screening at international festivals and community impact screenings, having won Best Picture at Toronto LGBTQ Film Festival, Best Documentary at Phoenixville Film Festival, and was the featured highlight film at Woodstock Film Festival, Out On Film, and other international film festivals.

Yuval’s series, One Actor Short have become an award winner and festival favorite, earning more than 75 awards from national and international festivals, including American Picture, Atlanta Film Festival, The Big Apple Film Festival, Global Webisode Festival, NYC Independent Film Festival, New Filmmakers Film Festival, Hollywood Just4Shorts Film Competition, IndieFest, Prague International Film Festival, Top Shorts Film Festival, and Vegas CineFest International Film Festival. Yuval David’s other narrative and documentary films and episodic series, including web series, have also won numerous awards, including Best Film, Best Short, Best Series, and, for Yuval specifically, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Producer, and Best Writer at national and international film festivals.

As an actor, Yuval plays leading roles in film, television, theatre, web and digital media, and voice-overs. His acting roles include leading and guest-star roles on FX, NBC, ABC, CBS, Showtime, Disney, DreamWorks, Comedy Central, countless independent films, and on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and in theatres across the US and abroad, including film and theatre festivals. He is currently acting in a new television show in production. Yuval creatively explores humanity with his roles on hit television shows, including Feud (FX/Hulu), Madam Secretary (CBS), The Michael J. Fox Show (NBC), Days of Our Lives (NBC), What Would You Do? (ABC), Unforgettable (CBS), and The Plot Against America (HBO). Yuval’s leading and supporting roles in films include “Beauty and the Beast,” “Nephilim,” “Incipient,” “Awakening of Spring,” “You,” and “The Fifth Estate.” His acting roles in theatre range from contemporary to classic theatrical works, including: Broadway in The Game, Off-Broadway in Romeo and Juliet, Leaving an Impression, Daddy Issues, Bunburry, and In The Swing. As much as possible, Yuval enjoys performing in regional theatres across the United States and abroad, as well as at international theatre festivals. Yuval regularly does voice-overs for animation, commercials, narration, documentaries, and industrials.

As a TV host and presenter, Yuval focuses on societal, humanitarian, food, travel, cultural, and entertainment programming. His work is seen on network television, documentary films, web series, and regularly at live events. He is also regularly a host and MC for special events, galas, and advocacy events for social and political initiatives, institutions, and organizations, especially those focusing on US, Israel, LGBTQ, Arts, Humanitarian, and Cultural causes.

Yuval is a news commentator on broadcast news programs, speaking about social and political issues and causes, often speaking about civil rights, social justice, and representation in politics, social movements, entertainment and media, Jewish, Israeli, and LGBTQ topics. These have been on major news networks and programs, including Fox, NewsNation, NBC, CBS, ABC, CNN, Reuters, Sky, i24, Kan, Keshet, Reshet, and Achshav. His writings have appeared in publications including The Hill, The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel, Out Magazine, AM New York, Yahoo News, Washington Blade, Queerty, Instinct Magazine, The Jewish Week, Yediot, and other international publications.

In addition to his work in entertainment and media, Yuval is a passionate advocate and activist. Advocacy for the marginalized and underrepresented is a driving force, along with his focus on Jewish, LGBTQ, humanitarian, arts, and creative initiatives. He uses his creative work as a vehicle for the greater good on behalf of highly respected American, Israeli, and international organizations.

On this edition of the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Yuval David spoke about the ongoing saga of Mark Ruffalo versus Paramount, Neo-Nazis hacking Dolly Parton’s Wikipedia Page, launching the Jewish Indian Alliance, and his newest project, Common Ground with Yuval David.

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She’s back! Longtime AGT judge Heidi Klum rejoined the show and filled in for series creator Simon Cowell, as he is recovering from back surgery.

She reunited with fellow show veterans Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Sofia Vergara at the Judges’ Desk!

For many longtime fans of the NBC talent competition, tonight felt like the finale as America’s Got Talent pulled a Britain’s Got Talent (BGT). Across the pond, BGT runs its live shows in a two-hour block. During the show, fans vote for their favorite acts, and then, in a separate show, longtime hosts Ant & Dec reveal which acts make it to the Series Finale.

Tonight, the final set of Quarterfinalists performed for America’s votes. Did Heidi Klum or any of her fellow judges buzz anyone? Who received the final Live Golden Buzzer and joined Hundred Fingers, Nene Royal, and Lai Noelle in the Season 21 final?

Listen on to find out!

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An update from Jacob: Since recording our podcast, John Galliano has bowed out of the 2027 Met Gala Exhibit.

It is a thrill to welcome actor, activist, author, content creator, and singer Michael Valdes to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Michael Valdes is a New York–based actor–singer, writer, theatre-maker, and multidisciplinary storyteller creating original work across stage, screen, and digital media centered on the Jewish lived experience. A Cuban-Iranian Jewish American, he holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from AMDA and an MFA in Contemporary Theatre & Performance from The New School. He also trained in Method Acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute.

Originally from Long Island, Michael’s theatre credits include the world premiere stage reading of Deep Cutting Henry VI at Arnhold Hall, the world premiere of Subterranean Memories at Westbeth, and EastLine Theatre’s world premieres of This Play Was Never About Noses (A New Cyrano) and An Oresteia, or What We Have Seen. His concert and cabaret work includes Jewish Artists Gathering’s Shana Tova: Stories & Songs of Hope & Renewal at Symphony Space, Seth’s Talent Showcase and The Comeback Cabaret at Don’t Tell Mama, and Bound for Broadway at the Triad Theatre.

Beyond the stage, Michael is the founder of Hot Jewish Media and creator of @hotjewishenergy, a digital platform exploring pop culture, entertainment, and contemporary issues through a Jewish lens for a community of more than 30,000 followers. He hosts Hot Jewish Energy: The Podcast, co-authored Hot Jewish Hanukkah, and has contributed cultural commentary to Unpacked. His work across performance and media brings humor, cultural criticism, and personal storytelling into conversations surrounding Jewish identity and representation.

Michael’s leadership and advocacy work includes serving as a Birthright Israel Foundation co-chair, StandWithUs Emerson Fellow, and ISRAEL21c Digital Ambassador. He joined TikTok’s Delegation to March of the Living in Hungary and Poland and was selected for the inaugural cohort of Voice of the People, President Isaac Herzog’s initiative for a shared Jewish future. He has also been recognized by the Anti-Defamation League as a Heroes Against Hate honoree.

Michael is the writer of Anemone, a contemporary dramatic play that premiered in New York City in March 2026. The intimate, bilingual, actor-driven work follows an Israeli woman stranded in New York in the immediate aftermath of October 7. Developed through workshops and a staged reading, Anemone explores identity, grief, distance, and belonging while interrogating what it means to bear witness to crisis from afar. Refusing easy binaries, the play centers human connection and asks audiences to sit inside contradiction, uncertainty, and discomfort.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Michael Valdes spoke about his latest theatrical production, Anemone, and previewed his upcoming 54Below debut with a Jewish Pride cabaret show that he is collaborating on with Ari Axelrod and Eliana Nunley.

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UPI reported that Saturday Night Live icon Kenan Thompson is filling in for Simon Cowell, while the Got Talent creator is recovering from back surgery.

This is not the first time Kenan has filled in for Simon; longtime AGT fans know that the All That alum was a guest judge in 2020. Now, Kenan joined Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Sofia Vergara at the Judges’ Desk.

Tonight, a third set of acts (including three Golden Buzzer recipients) performed for America’s votes. Which acts stepped up to the plate? Did Kenan Thompson or the other judges buzz an act? Which performer received the third Live Golden Buzzer and will join both Hundred Fingers and Nene Royal in the Season 21 finale?

Listen on to find out!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a thrill to welcome back one of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s original guests, the impeccable James Sismanes, to the podcast!

James Sismanes is an award-winning audio and visual storyteller from Melbourne, Australia. A small business owner by day (ImagiWorks Agency, Vision One Technologies) and a full-time creative by night, James is a multi-dimensional make-believer and dreamer of the (almost!) impossible. With over 500+ sales on the acclaimed AudioJungle marketplace, a debut children’s book (The Marvellous Mullabaloos Only Wear Blue) and a diverse and unique business/branding portfolio, James is always on the hunt for the next “big idea.”

James’ screenplays (“Dr. Claus,” “The Ballad of Bam Barlow,” “Bliss Inc.,” and “Tilt”) have consistently ranked on Coverfly‘s “The Red List,” and he has placed as a finalist or semi-finalist in various screenwriting competitions (including the Emerging Screenwriters, Screencraft, So Cal Screenplay, and New York International Screenplay Awards).

Behind a MIDI controller, James has collaborated on records with award-winning and globally-recognised artists like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Josh Levi, B2K, Pretty Ricky (Emanuel Deanda), Gabe Lustman, Minus Gravity, K Major and Giulietta.

When he’s not writing, producing, designing, sales-pitching, and daydreaming like a world-saving superhero, James enjoys eating cheeseburgers and chicken parmigianas, conquering Xbox tournaments, watching Friends reruns, catching Pokémon, and dealing with the heartache of being a Barça and Cleveland sports fan.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, James Sismanes spoke about embracing AI in his creative process, previewed Code Name: G.E.L.A.T.O., his latest work-in-progress animated feature, and shared his thoughts on Michael and the second chapter of the Michael Jackson biopic.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Last week, America’s Got Talent (AGT) started its live portion of Season 21!

Fan favorites such as Luke Taleno and Royal Lasers rose to the occasion and were sent through to the Season 21 semifinals. Former standouts such as Ashford Sanders, Cris Sosa, James & Marina, and the Jesse White Tumbling Team fell to the pressure.

Recently, multiple media outlets, including Parade & TMZ, reported that Simon Cowell has stepped away from the NBC talent competition due to routine back surgery linked to his 2020 bike accident. Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar sends our best wishes to the Got Talent creator and hopes for a successful surgery and a safe recovery.

Tonight, 11 more acts took the Pasadena Civic Auditorium stage to perform for America’s votes. Which performers stood out? Who received the second Live Golden Buzzer of the Season and will join two-time Golden Buzzer recipient Hundred Fingers in the Season 21 Live Finale?

Listen on to find out!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.