Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 .

It is an honor to welcome two-time Emmy-winning actor and producer Mike Manning back to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Television audiences first met Mike when he joined the cast of MTV’s legendary Reality TV series, The Real World: D.C. After completing filming, he dove into the entertainment industry. He appeared on Crash & Bernstein, Hawaii Five-0, Major Crimes, Teen Wolf, The Haves and Have Nots, and This Is Us. Mike also started Mannifest Productions to connect audiences with entertainment that matters by developing and producing films, TV, and new media projects that aim not only to change the world but also to open hearts and minds through art. He began his producing career with the documentary Kidnapped for Christ alongside Tom DeSanto. The film won several awards before being shown on Showtime and was responsible for legislation in California and other states to protect children from abuse at “camps for troubled youth.” He also produced Jinn, Son of the South, M.F.A., and Folk Hero & Funny Guy. His documentary about homeless youth, Lost in America, starred Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry, Grammy-winning songstress Jewel, Rosario Dawson, and Tiffany Haddish. Meanwhile, The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, directed by Oscar-nominated David France, was released as a Netflix Original after premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival. Outside of the entertainment industry, Mike works with nonprofits that advocate for the poor, the environment, and equal rights. In 2010, Mike Manning lobbied Congress in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the Human Rights Campaign. Since then, he has received proclamations from the New York City Council in recognition of his cause-related work. Recently, Mike celebrated his one-year anniversary portraying Bradley “Smitty” Smith on CBS and Paramount+’s groundbreaking soap opera Beyond the Gates. In the first year of its eligibility to be nominated for Daytime Emmy Awards, the soap received 15 nominations, including Outstanding Daytime Drama Series for the show and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for himself. On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Mike Manning spoke about receiving his latest Emmy nomination, Beyond the Gates’ crossover with sister soap The Young & The Restless, and his latest project, The Wolf and the Lamb. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

It is a privilege to welcome journalist Stephen Anderson to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Stephen is the co-founder and Chief Political Reporter of FRWD AXIS News. Like most media organizations, FRWD AXIS News keeps up with the times in entertainment, current events, and other sections found in most outlets. They are wholly independent and aim to deliver meaningful stories from thoughtful writers. Their editorial guidelines and investigative skills carve a path for those who follow headlines and miss key stories. He has covered both the Biden White House and the second Trump White House. When he is not covering politics, Stephen reports on the San Antonio Spurs for Pounding the Rock and San Antonio Spurs on Sports Illustrated . He also covers the Texas Longhorns and other sports stories for the Lone Star Sports Journal. This October, Stephen will launch his own show, St ephen Anderson Unfiltered. On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Stephen Anderson shared FRWD AXIS News’s origin story, compared covering the Biden and second Trump Administrations, and gave his take on this current season of America’s Got Talent . Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

For the first time this season, America’s Got Talent (AGT) went LIVE! Tonight, 11 acts competed for America’s votes. Which acts rose to the occasion? Did any acts receive an X from the judges (series creator Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara)? 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 pleasure to welcome Wendy Colonna to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. For nearly three decades, Wendy has written songs that explore the intersections of humanity, culture, and resilience. A graduate of Louisiana's Scholars' College, she has released nine studio albums, toured nationally and internationally, earned a Coca-Cola sync placement reaching millions, and shared stages with legendary artists. From performing for 60,000 people at the Women's March to singing at hospice bedsides, Colonna believes every performance is an act of connection. Beyond the stage, she is Chief Cultural Officer of Wavemakers Women + Music, where she helps amplify women artists over 40, and founder of the Lyriculture™ Artist Development program, where she has spent a decade mentoring creatives. Her commitment to elevating overlooked voices is at the heart of her songwriting—and comes to life in "Nightingale." She is based in San Marcos, Texas. On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Wendy Colonna spoke about Wavemakers Women + Music, spoke about the stories behind her most-streamed Spotify songs, and previewed her upcoming project, Banned, which transforms banned books into songs. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 Live Shows start next week! However, we have one more edition of Judges’ Callbacks before NBC reveals the entire lineup of acts. Last week, Simon and Mel B conducted their Judges’ Callbacks and sent eight acts into the live shows. Tonight, Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara held court at their respective Judges’ Callbacks locations – his podcast studio and The Laugh Factory (Howie) and Beverly Hills (Sofia). They also brought guest judges Nikki Glaser (Howie), Lele Pons and Sebastian Yarra (Sofia) to help them make the crucial decisions. Which acts rose to the occasion? Who will be competing for America’s votes? Listen on to find out! Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Live Shows START! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

It is a privilege to welcome country music recording artist Caldwell to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Caldwell's sound is as raw and real as the life that shaped him. Raised in a diverse community and grounded in values of respect, hard work, and authenticity, Caldwell found his rhythm early, picking up the drums at age five and turning to songwriting during high school. The spark that lit the fuse came when he watched a friend shoot a music video and thought, “I can do this better.” Drawing inspiration from Eminem, Elvis Presley, Bruno Mars, and Morgan Wallen, Caldwell channels his Southern roots into a fearless fusion of country, rock, hip-hop, and pop. What began as a relentless grind through local venues and bar stages has evolved into sold-out performances, viral moments, and a rapidly expanding fanbase fueled by his faith, grit, and unwavering work ethic. Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, Caldwell is redefining genre lines with a high-voltage blend of country, rock, rap, and pop. Following a breakout 2025 that saw him named Rolling Stone UK’s #1 Artist to Watch with his viral hit “Beer & Baddies” featuring Sexyy Red , which debuted at number 31 on the Billboard Dance/Mix Show Airplay Chart, Caldwell continues his meteoric rise with a major milestone of partnering with independent record label EMPIRE Nashville. Caldwell took this energy and harnessed a show-stopping performance for a record-breaking crowd at CMA Fest’s Dr Pepper Amp Stage . The performance left the crowd wanting more and fueled the iconic WAKA FLOCKA FLAME to say from the stage, “Caldwell is the most exciting new country artist to come up!” On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Caldwell opened up about how Chad Kroeger and Morgan Wallen influenced his sound, the stories behind his songs, including “F.S.U.” and “Flyin’ Pass – Remix” with Yung Pinch & MOD SUN. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

America’s Got Talent (AGT) brought an element fans have been missing for ages – the Middle Round. The middle round not only introduced acts who would be competing for America’s votes, but also gave multiple acts the chance to present themselves in front of the judges (and their guests) one final time if they were undecided. From the Vegas Rounds to the Judge Cuts, AGT’s Middle Round created unforgettable moments. For Season 21, judges Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara each selected six acts to see one more time to determine if they were going to the live shows. This week, Simon Cowell and Mel B invited their six acts to their houses, and they brought with them – three iconic mentors, former X Factor USA alum Normani and producer Poo Bear (Simon), and Baby Spice herself – Emma Bunton (Mel B)! Which acts rose to the occasion and were awarded a spot in the Season 21 Live Shows? Listen on to find out! Next week, Howie & Sofia invite their six acts for the second round of Judge Callbacks! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

It is a privilege to welcome Hilary Roberts to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Hilary is a singer-songwriter who is a phoenix rising from the ashes. After suffering many years of trauma and abuse, Hilary made the decision that she could no longer deal with those demons alone. On May 9, 1997, she reached out to a mentor who offered her solutions and a way of life to help her recover one day at a time. She has been sober ever since. Hilary is not only a trauma survivor but also survived open-heart surgery after being diagnosed with a very rare congenital heart defect, to which she was only given a 50% chance of success. After the surgery, she lost her voice but eventually got it back after a year and a half. All these situations led her to focus on a life of giving back and spreading the message of hope wherever she goes. She now dedicates her life and talents to making a positive impact on society through her music. Her goal with her music is to be a beacon of hope and empowerment to all. In 2018, she released her debut single “There For You” under her self-owned label, Red Songbird, which charted No.10 on the Billboard Dance-Club Chart. She followed up that chart-topping single with a second one, an upbeat rendition of Soul II Soul’s “Back to Life,” which spent 13 weeks on the Top 50 chart before claiming No.1 in 2019. She also released “Fight to the Other Side,” which was dedicated to her beautiful friend who was there for her during the depths of her deepest pain. Following her chart-topping success, she released her single, “Good Man,” which is all about celebrating men who make a positive difference in our lives. On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Hilary Roberts spoke about starting the Red Songbird Foundation and her latest single, “Never Too Late,” which she co-wrote with the iconic Justin Tranter. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

Angelcake Entertainment's Drew Angelman returned to The Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast! Drew is the creator of ‪Angelcake Entertainment! He has covered the popular MTV reality competition series, ‪ The Challenge , since Final Reckoning and many of its spin-offs, including T he Challenge: All Stars, The Challenge: USA, and The Challenge: World Championship . Drew also gave fans crash courses on some of the show’s top icons, including Derrick Kosinski, Jenna Compono, Johnny Bananas, Leroy Garrett, Tori Deal, Zach Nichols, and the late Diem Brown. He also delivered a three-part documentary on two-time champion Cara Maria Sorbello and a five-part documentary on five-time champion Chris “CT” Tamburello. He also addressed some of the franchise’s biggest rumors, ranked the show’s seasons, and dissected how Wes Bergmann and Kenny Santucci’s legendary rivalry continues to impact the franchise. Drew also conducted interviews with cast members. Adam Larson, Alyssa Lopez, Brandon Nelson, Jonna Mannion, Josh Martinez, Dr. Kefla Hare, Kyland Young, Michele Fitzgerald, Nelson Thomas, Paulie Calafiore, Steve Meinke, and Troy Cullen are among the individuals who have visited his platform. Fans can watch and listen to their whole conversations on Drew’s Patreon. On our LIVE episode, Drew spoke about his coverage of Survivor 50 & The Traitors and previewed The Challenge: Cutthroat . Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

The America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 Judges Auditions are over! Throughout the past seven weeks, hundreds of acts auditioned in front of the show’s on-air team (judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and series creator Simon Cowell). Only 10 lucky individuals received the automatic ticket to the Season 21 live shows, courtesy of the Golden Buzzers from the judges and host Terry Crews. Once the auditions were over, the judges entered the Gallery of Talent to determine which of the over 100 acts would join their Golden Buzzers in the live shows. For several acts, the judges wanted to see them once again for the first-ever Judge Callbacks (think of it as a combination of AGT’s Judge Cuts and X Factor UK/X Factor USA Judges’ Houses). These acts will have the chance to prove themselves over the next two weeks. However, tonight, it was all about the Live Acts! Which audition favorites received the green light to advance to the AGT: Season 21 live shows and continue their journey to win the show’s signature $1 million prize? Listen on to find out! Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Judges Callbacks begin! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .

It is a privilege to welcome singer-songwriter and transgender Belgian/American artist Sam Bettens to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Sam began his career as the frontman for the Belgian rock band K’s Choice with his brother Gert. The band grew in popularity in Belgium, the Netherlands, and across Europe and toured across the United States with Alanis Morissette, the Indigo Girls, Tonic, and the Verve Pipe. Recently, Sam released his first album in 17 years, Coming Home. The album was shaped by 15 years living in East Tennessee, including his full-time firefighter work and his transition. It also marks a new chapter in his recording artist career, as this is his first record in the Country-Americana genre. Recorded in Nashville with producer Tom Bukovac, Coming Home blends classic country and Americana singer-songwriter craft. It’s a record meant to be lived with, vinyl on the turntable, stories unfolding slowly, and a voice that carries the weight of experience. On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sam Bettens shared K’s Choice’s origin story, shifting into Americana and country music, and reimagining K’s Choice hit single, “Not An Addict,” 30 years later. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support .