"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast

In this special episode, Donna and Dr. Adam are joined by musician Willie Aron! Willie, who is a Grammy nominee, worked with Donna to bring to life her first concert in over 50 years at Tiki Oasis in 2016. Donna and Willie share memories of that event and, in conversation with Donna and Dr Adam, Willie discusses his wide-ranging and diverse career as a singer, songwriter, composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist and educator.

Willie’s first band was 1980's cult lo-fi rock, garage quartet "The Balancing Act", whose album “Curtains” was produced by the legendary Andy Gill (“Gang of Four”). From there, he has worked constantly as a session musician, film and television composer, performer and producer, including working with Leonard Cohen, Todd Lawrence (known as Milo Binder), Anjani Thomas, and his collaborator, Marvin Etzioni, in the duo "Thee Holy Brothers", whose name was influenced by Willie’s relationship with Leonard Cohen! Willie also shares his experiences of loss and the trio discuss the importance of self-compassion, balancing intellect and spirit, and the importance of the arts to all of us.

Don’t miss this insider's perspective into the sounds and people of the LA music scene!

This conversation is available as an audio episode and will also be available as a video with Donna, Dr. Adam, and Willie!

In this new chapter…

Donna reflects on the relationships she had with her adopted father and her mother at the height of her ‘60s career and in their later years.

Then, Donna and Dr Adam speak about the importance of understanding the good and not so good of one’s upbringing, so that we may move forward with compassion for ourselves and others.

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guest Kelly Munroe! Kelly shares her experiences of illness and resilience, and the trio discuss the importance of all of us contributing to the growth and healing of the Planet.

Welcome to a new chapter of Donna’s memoir! We open with a duet sung by Donna and Bobby Sherman on Shindig, “Casting My Spell on You”.

In this episode…Donna takes us back to the early 2000s as her fashion business, ADASA Hawaii, enters a new phase with celebrity clientele and the hottest lines including Juicy Couture, James Perse, Isabella Fiore and Lacoste. At a time of personal change and professional success, Donna begins to wonder if her new voice is as a Designer. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guests Jo David and Marlow Harris! Both Jo and Marlow are Tiki Culture and mid-century enthusiasts who take Donna, Dr Adam, and listeners into their world of music, culture, and design, as well as sharing their own art, radio, filmmaking and magazine endeavors. Did you know there’s an Official Bad Art Museum of Art in Seattle (The OBAMA)? You’ll meet the curators behind it on this episode of "Love’s A Secret Weapon" Podcast!
And remember: If this podcast’s message of love touches your heart, please like, subscribe, and review wherever you choose to listen.

As this chapter closes…

In the shadow of 9/11, Donna is offered the opportunity to open a new boutique in the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Leticia Lopez! Leticia is a journalist, author, and historian who has previously interviewed Donna – and now the tables turn as Leticia tells Donna and Dr Adam about her work researching and writing about both ‘60s and modern mid-century inspired pop culture. Leticia introduces Donna and Dr Adam to some of the unique people she has written about, and Donna shares her perspective on why the message of the ‘60s is more important now than ever.

In this episode...

After her stepdad’s death, Donna asks her mother to join her in Hawaii. Checking into the Mauna Lani Hotel for one night, Donna’s mother finally shares the truth about a trip she made to Boston when she was twenty years old, where she met the man who was Donna’s biological father.

In conversation, Donna and Dr Adam talk about recognizing the patterns in our relationships with others so that we can move forward.

It’s Dr Adam’s birthday, and what a gift he’s been to our Love’s A Secret Weapon Podcast!

Turning 40 can be overwhelming, and so on his birthday, Dr Adam shares a reflection with you of how his values have evolved. Incredibly vulnerable and sensitive, here is our doctor of psychology reflecting on how imperfect life is!

Donna and Dr Adam utilise his reflection to discuss the importance of living life in line with one’s values, learning from experiences, self-kindness and self-compassion, and the power of empathy.

In this episode…Donna, Dr Adam, & Jered Cargman in conversation!

In honor of Donna’s husband’s birthday, we are replaying our conversation from 2022 where Jered joined Donna and Dr Adam! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting in 1965 for Donna’s high school Prom, as well as their reconnecting and courtship many years later. Jered also shares his memories of being in the band The Fantastic Baggys with lifelong friend and composer, P.F. Sloan ("Secret Agent Man").

As Donna continues reading from her memoir…

Donna’s couture designs begin to attract attention on the Big Island of Hawaii culminating in a photo shoot in a volcano lava field! It’s Paris in Paniolo Paradise!

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest! Gary Wells is a writer and blogger devoted to mid-century culture, music, and films. Gary joins Donna and Dr Adam to talk mid-century records, cars, and The King of Rock 'n' Roll – Elvis. What’s your favourite Elvis film – the trio discuss!

Gary's blog is available at https://soulrideblog.com/

In this very special episode, Donna reunites with her longtime friend – actor, singer, and advocate Paul Petersen! Paul joins Donna and Dr Adam to reminisce about his role on The Donna Reed Show, talk with Donna about their decades-long friendship and to tell listeners about the important work of his organization, "A Minor Consideration", founded to protect the welfare of young performers. You will not want to miss this very special reunion!   Paul Petersen was one of the biggest teen idols of the ‘50s and ‘60s. He started his career as a Mouseketeer on The Mickey Mouse Club and played alongside Sophia Loren and Cary Grant in the film "Houseboat", playing Cary Grant's son. From there, he took on his star-making role as Jeff Stone on The Donna Reed Show (1958-1966). Hit records “My Dad” and “She Can’t Find Her Keys” followed, and he even wrote a series of spy-adventure novels!  Paul was a good friend and confidant to Donna during her ’60s career, escorting her to various events including the Deb Star Ball, and they supported each other through the turbulence that can come with having a teen career.  It was Paul’s empathy for the plight of child stars, having been one himself, that led to his founding "A Minor Consideration" in 1991, an organization that supports young performers and advocates for legislation to protect them while they work in the entertainment industry.

“We’re linking together in the frequency of Love”. 

Happy Valentine’s Day Love’s A Secret Weapon Community! In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna’s longtime friend, Swedish actress and artist Margareta Sjödin. Margareta revisits her TV and film career, including her role as the ditsy blonde in the comedy series Partaj, which was based on the American series Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, and providing the voice of Duchess in the Swedish version of Disney’s The Aristocats. Donna and Margareta reminisce about their friendship, which started in Malibu in the 1980s, and Margareta updates Donna and Dr Adam about her work today as an artist.

Welcome to Season 5 and a new chapter of Donna’s memoir! 

In this episode: Moving to the tropics requires a new wardrobe, and when Donna meets some silk painters, she is inspired to start designing dresses for the first time since her ‘60s career – this time, Hawaiian style! 

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their first guest for the new season: photographer David Crotty! David, who has photographed some of the biggest Hollywood stars, shares his story with Donna and Dr Adam, taking them and their listeners from New York to Maui, Los Angeles to Palm Springs…and even Egypt! 

You can view some of David’s work at Patrick McMullan Company: https://www.patrickmcmullan.com/search/?q=David%20Crotty

In this 60th episode of the podcast and the fourth season finale, Donna and Dr Adam reminisce about their recent travels, Dr Adam shares some personal news, and the duo give their thanks to you, the listeners, and guests who joined Donna and Dr Adam during the year. 

And in her holiday message to listeners, Donna draws inspiration from Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, to share her hopes for 2023. Plus hear Donna’s performances of three Christmas songs from her career: "Merry Christmas Baby" from Donna's 2010 EP, Donna Does Elvis in Hawaii; "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" from Shindig in 1964; and the final, "I Think It's Almost Christmas Time", which Donna recorded with Jesse Hodges on Fable when she was 9 years old!

In this episode, as Donna continues reading her memoir… 

Donna and her friend Vicki’s decision to read Shakespeare’s King Lear provides Donna with insight into her own relationships. And when it comes time for the North Kohala Library to move to a modern new building, an old Hawaiian tradition is used. 

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, music critic and journalist Mark Deming! Mark tells the story of how his fumbling through asking Robert Altman a question at a university lecture led to Mark’s debut acting role in Altman’s A Wedding with Hollywood royalty including Carol Burnett, Mia Farrow, and Lillian Gish. In their chat, Donna, Dr Adam, and Mark discuss a range of music, and Mark provides an insight into his work as a music critic, including his review of one of Donna’s albums!

In this next chapter of Donna’s memoir…

As Donna begins to form a new life and friendships on the Big Island of Hawaii, she is visited by someone from her past – her former father-in-law, Si. 

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Kyle Jasper! Kyle is an 18-year-old drummer who joins Donna and Dr Adam to talk about his love of mid-century music, fashion and his own musical influences as the trio delve into the groundbreaking rock opera episode of Shindig called “Shindig Place”.

In this episode… 

As this chapter of Donna's memoir concludes, Donna decides to write her mother a letter telling her that she finally knows the truth about her Dad. In a far-ranging conversation, Donna and Dr Adam discuss truth and the complexity of family dynamics, as well as how one can emerge from difficult experiences with greater clarity and self-awareness. 

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Margaret “Peggy” McDaniel to chat gardening, dressmaking, and what it was like for Donna to see herself on a billboard! And, Margaret and Donna share a love of fashion!

In this episode... 

As Donna continues to read from her memoir, the healing energy of Hawaii proves to be the perfect place to process the truth about her Dad. 

Plus, you’re invited to Lunch with Lizabeth…and Todd! Donna and Dr Adam welcome back Todd Hughes and his partner P. David Ebersole to talk about Todd’s new book, Lunch with Lizabeth – a memoir of Todd’s two decade friendship with film noir legend Lizabeth Scott.

In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by Donna’s friend, Janis Weitz. Donna and Janis reminisce about their lifelong friendship, from meeting in elementary school to being on the sets of Shindig! and The Dating Game, celebrating milestone birthdays, and more. Revisit some of the stories Donna’s shared on the podcast with someone who was there! Plus, Janis talks with Donna and Dr Adam about her passion as a special educator.

In this episode... 

After Donna returns to Hawaii, she begins to process the revelation that Morey is not her father. Donna and Dr Adam delve into meditation, mindfulness, and the power of 'stillness' when processing life experiences.  

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guest and pop culture enthusiast Robert Baum. Donna, Dr Adam, and Robert delve into their favorite James Bond and Batman characters, and much much more, while also continuing the theme of the importance of understanding and using our past experiences for growth.

Donna continues reading her memoir: When Donna returns to L.A. with Jered for a friend’s wedding, the truth is revealed: Morey is not Donna’s father. This revelation spirals Donna into illness. 

Plus, we have a special treat: Jered Cargman, Donna’s husband, joins Donna and Dr Adam on the podcast! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting in 1965 for Donna’s high school Prom, as well as their reconnecting and courtship many years later. Jered also shares his memories of being in the band The Fantastic Baggys with lifelong friend and composer, P.F. Sloan ("Secret Agent Man").

Welcome to Season 4, and it’s Donna – Hawaiian style! In this episode, Donna reacquaints with her high school prom date, Jered. Admitting their feelings for each other after so many years, Donna and Jered uproot and decide to make their new home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Living in a rural tropical area with the jungle and ocean all around takes adjustment and, as Donna settles in, she is unaware that a shocking surprise is just around the corner.

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their first guest of the new season – Guy Gilchrist. A multitalented writer, artist, illustrator, author, songwriter, and performer, Guy was the writer and artist behind The Muppets newspaper comic strip, which ran in hundreds of newspapers around the world from 1981-1986, and he steered the classic Nancy comic strip for 22 years. Guy reveals to Donna and Dr Adam the early life changing advice he received from legendary cartoonist Walter Lantz (Woody Woodpecker), how his career big break came courtesy of another legend Mort Walker (Beetle Bailey), and what it was like working with Jim Henson, Michael Frith, and Frank Oz to put The Muppets on paper. These days Guy is in Nashville and is making music and art. You won’t want to miss this first episode of the fourth season of Love’s A Secret Weapon!

It’s the finale of Season 3! In this episode, the earth moves! Following the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and the arrest of O. J. Simpson, the relationship between Donna and her parents begins to unravel. While she begins to learn more about her adopted dad, Morey, a dramatic incident occurs that leads Donna to reevaluate the relationships in her life. Taking a leap of faith, Donna calls her longtime friend, Jerry, in Sedona. 

And we have another Beach Party reunion! Salli Sachse, actress and artist, and one of the ‘Bookends’ in American International Pictures’ Beach Party film series hangs ten with Donna and Adam. Salli reminisces about how she was cast in the films, her on-set memories, appearances in other films including The Trip with Peter Fonda, and what lead to her joining Crosby, Stills & Nash on the road. Salli also shares memories of her late husband Peter, the musician who wrote a song for her, and how she began painting. You don’t want to miss this Season Finale!

It’s Episode 50…and a new chapter! 

Seeking to take some positive action, Donna begins working with a professional to help uncover how her early experiences with her parents and career shaped her development.

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest, Stephen White. Stephen lives in Melbourne, Australia and he switched careers mid-life to become an educator. 

In both Donna’s reading and in conversation with Stephen, Donna and Dr Adam explore the importance of understanding oneself and how it’s never too late to make a change to live life in line with one’s values.

In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna's longtime friends, filmmakers P. David Ebersole and Todd Hughes. Todd and David are the documentary filmmakers behind works exploring the lives and careers of luminaries including Pierre Cardin, Trini Lopez, Patty Schemel, Cher and her mother Georgia Holt, and Jayne Mansfield. David and Todd join the podcast on the eve of the release of David's new novel, the noir thriller 99 Miles from L.A. Hear about their work and how Donna became involved as a musical guest in David and Todd's docu-drama, Mansfield 66/67.

As Donna’s time in Sedona ends, she returns to L.A. and rents the former home of a Hollywood fashion icon. Settling back into life in L.A., Donna throws herself into a school musical project with her youngest daughter. Finding her feet after her divorce, Donna meets a producer wanting to bring the life of this former Shindig Girl to the small screen.

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest, Steven O. Sellers. Steven has spent a lifetime on radio, and he provides an insider’s perspective on 50 years of broadcasting having started in radio at the height of Donna’s own career.

Moving to a new place is hard and, as a divorcee, Donna tries to settle into her new community. And what’s that bright light in the sky…is it a UFO? 

Donna and Dr Adam discuss how Donna began to navigate the losses that come with divorce and the importance of self-forgiveness.

Plus, it’s time for music as Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest to the show – musician and multi-instrumentalist, Andy Nazzal. Andy takes Adam and Donna into the world of exotica and tiki culture and Donna reminisces about her own headlining of the Tiki Oasis festival.

In a tribute to rock ‘n’ roll legend Bobby Rydell, we replay our episode from 2021 where Donna was joined by Bobby to reminisce about their co-starring roles on 1966’s The Milton Berle Show.

Echoing an earlier emergency procedure she had at 19, Donna requires immediate surgery. Donna and Dr Adam discuss how family dynamics and life experiences affect our psychological and physical well being. 

Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest to the show – Bill Alexander. Donna has previously appeared on Bill’s The Bill Alexander Show and, this time, Donna and Dr Adam turn the tables to interview this longtime radio host and podcaster!

As Donna prepares for a big transition in her life, she returns to the recording studio for the first time in over a decade. Looking to promote her music and pondering a potential new direction to her career, she visits her former agent Norman Brokaw. Donna also decides to address an issue that has bothered her since she was a teenager. And the Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona begin to call her. Donna, with the assistance of Dr Adam, takes their listeners into her experiences after she retired from the public eye.

The holidays are here! And, Donna and Dr Adam have your holiday treat. Over the next few episodes, John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig, will join her and Dr Adam to reminisce about his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive. John has worked with Sonny and Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Eagles, Buffalo Springfield, Canned Heat, America, Poco, Crosby, Stills and Nash and many, many others. In the first part of their interview, John tells Donna and Dr Adam about how he moved from the William Morris Agency mail room to working with Elvis’ manager, the formidable Colonel Parker.

A death, a new life, and a change in direction. Donna rushes home from a Dr Pepper event after getting word that a family member is gravely ill. Continuing to feel pulled between her new life with husband Lenny and her parent's close control of her career, Donna calls the CEO of Dr Pepper and makes a liberating decision. As one chapter in her life closes, she welcomes her first son, Joey.

Producers Danny Thomas and Aaron Spelling cast Donna in a pilot for her own series, Two for Penny. Donna takes you behind the scenes and tells all about the on-set mishap with co-star Michael Constantine (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), romantic overtures from Bill Bixby, and why to this day she still thinks of director Paul Bogart whenever she brushes her teeth! And will wedding bells soon be ringing for Donna and Lenny?

Donna continues to build her acting resume when she is cast as Princess Colette, Davy Jones' love interest on The Monkees. And then, "G-o-l-l-y!", Donna snags a role on Gomer Pyle. Plus, Donna and Adam answer listener questions!

"Good gravy!" After taping on location in Hawaii, Donna exits Shindig. But The Caped Crusader and Boy Wonder come to the rescue when she wins the part of Susie the Cheerleader, as the sidekick of The Joker (Cesar Romero) on TV's Batman starring Adam West and Burt Ward.