Famous with Jacy Dawn Valeras

LAURIE BERKNER: A Career in Children’s Music, 2 Billion Streams, & Her Rise to Fame

In this heartwarming episode of FAMOUS with Jacy Dawn Valeras, Jacy sits down with beloved children’s entertainer Laurie Berkner for a joyful and meaningful conversation about a career that has touched millions of families around the world. With over 2 billion streams and a catalog of songs that have become staples of childhood - including fan favorites like “We Are the Dinosaurs,” “The Goldfish (Let’s Go Swimming),” and “Victor Vito” - Laurie reflects on her early days, how she built her career, and the moments that shaped her journey. From performing at Madonna’s child’s birthday party to selling out shows for generations of fans, her story is filled with both unexpected highlights and deeply personal insights. Together, they explore what success truly means, the powerful lessons children have taught her, and how those experiences continue to influence her music today. Laurie also shares what she’s working on now, including new projects and her current tour, bringing the same joy and connection to audiences everywhere. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that music has the power to shape childhoods, and that sometimes, the greatest success is measured in the lives you impact. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401973/support] Learn more by visiting jacydawnvaleras.com and by following the show on social media at @famouswithjdv. Follow Jacy Dawn Valeras @jacydawnvaleras. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

ANN JILLIAN: Hollywood, Walt Disney, Bob Hope, Her Golden Globe & Her Iconic Love Story

In this unforgettable episode of FAMOUS with Jacy Dawn Valeras, Jacy sits down with Golden Globe-winning actress and Hollywood icon Ann Jillian for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation that spans a lifetime in entertainment - and all of the moments that shaped it. From the very beginning, this interview carries a special kind of meaning. Like so many, Jacy first fell in love with Ann’s work as a child - watching her unforgettable performance as the Red Queen in Alice in Wonderland. That admiration never faded, and somehow, years later, led to this conversation. Together, they explore: Ann’s early career - from Gypsy to Babes in Toyland and her time working with Walt Disney The story behind how she got the name “Ann Jillian” Her incredible love story and creative partnership with her husband, who also became her manager Behind-the-scenes memories from Battle of the Network Stars What it was like working alongside legends like Bob Hope and meeting Lucille Ball Her courageous breast cancer journey - and the powerful decision to portray her own story in The Ann Jillian Story, a role that earned her a Golden Globe What it truly means to touch another person’s life through your work And so much more. This is more than a conversation about fame. It’s about resilience, legacy, faith, love, and the ripple effect of a life lived with purpose. From childhood inspiration to sitting across from her, this is the kind of moment that reminds you why dreams matter. Mentioned in this episode: Ann Jillian interview, Alice in Wonderland Red Queen, Gypsy, Babes In Toyland, Sammy The Way Out Seal, Scooby Doo, Lucille Ball, It’s a Living cast, Battle of the Network Stars, Bob Hope, classic Hollywood actresses, 1980s television stars, celebrity love stories, Ann Jillian husband, Hollywood career stories, inspirational celebrity interviews Videography: Rod Hefezi Filmed at The Lazy Pickle studios in Burbank, CA Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401973/support] Learn more by visiting jacydawnvaleras.com and by following the show on social media at @famouswithjdv. Follow Jacy Dawn Valeras @jacydawnvaleras. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

RUTA LEE: The Lucy Show, the Rat Pack, A Life in Hollywood & Full-Circle Moments

In this episode of Famous with Jacy Dawn Valeras, Jacy sits down with legendary Hollywood actress Ruta Lee for a candid conversation about her life and career in entertainment. Known for her roles in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and appearances on The Lucy Show, The Twilight Zone, Match Game and hundreds of other TV shows, Ruta reflects on coming of age during Hollywood’s golden era, including her time alongside Milton Berle and the Rat Pack. Joining Jacy via Zoom, she also shares the full-circle meaning behind her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ruta opens up about her longtime friendship with Ann Jillian and their shared involvement with The Thalians, supporting mental health awareness, while also reflecting on how her Lithuanian heritage shaped her life and career. A warm, nostalgic, and heartfelt conversation filled with classic Hollywood stories and life behind the spotlight. 🎙️ Learn more about The Thalians by visiting: http://www.thalians.org/ [http://www.thalians.org/] Mentioned in this episode: Ruta Lee • Seven Brides for Seven Brothers • The Lucy Show • The Twilight Zone • Match Game • Milton Berle • Rat Pack • Hollywood Walk of Fame • Ann Jillian • The Thalians • Lithuanian heritage • classic Hollywood • celebrity interview Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401973/support] Learn more by visiting jacydawnvaleras.com and by following the show on social media at @famouswithjdv. Follow Jacy Dawn Valeras @jacydawnvaleras. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

MORGAN FAIRCHILD: Fame, Friends & Life in Hollywood

In the season two opener of Famous with Jacy Dawn Valeras, Jacy chats with legendary Hollywood actress Morgan Fairchild for a candid conversation about her life and career in entertainment. Known for her iconic roles in Friends, Falcon Crest, and Flamingo Road, Morgan reflects on the realities of fame, longevity in Hollywood, and the personal challenges that can come with a life in the spotlight. She also shares behind-the-scenes memories from her memorable guest role on Friends as Matthew Perry’s mother, offers heartfelt advice for aspiring performers, and talks about her new podcast, 2 Bitches from Texas, which she co-hosts with her sister, Cathryn Hartt. A thoughtful and entertaining look at fame, resilience, and life behind the scenes in Hollywood. Listen now to this candid conversation with Hollywood legend Morgan Fairchild. Mentioned in this episode: Morgan Fairchild • Matthew Perry • Friends • Falcon Crest • Flamingo Road • 2 Bitches from Texas • Cathryn Hartt ___________ Famous with Jacy Dawn Valeras features candid conversations with some of the most recognizable names in film, television, music, and entertainment. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401973/support] Learn more by visiting jacydawnvaleras.com and by following the show on social media at @famouswithjdv. Follow Jacy Dawn Valeras @jacydawnvaleras. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Becoming FAMOUS: GRACEE SHRIVER

Jacy chats with rising star, Gracee Shriver who came to America's attention when she landed on Team Kelly & Team Blake on The Voice. Her honest lyrics are at the center of her songs and in this episode Gracee shares who her dream duet partner would be, what it's really like getting to be on National television every week and what song she thinks truly captures her artistry the most.  0d5367f0-c701-11f0-b5d0-094639207a9f Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401973/support] Learn more by visiting jacydawnvaleras.com and by following the show on social media at @famouswithjdv. Follow Jacy Dawn Valeras @jacydawnvaleras. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!