Big Conversations, Little Bar

Hosted by Mutual Broadcasting System LLC

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155

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Hosted by Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, get up close and personal with fascinating people who live in and visit the Coachella Valley and have made an impact on the region's economy, culture and global appeal as a leading tourism destination. Many thanks to our outstanding listeners from throughout the Golden State, North America and around the world. And, a very special note of gratitude to our friends Skip Paige and Kate Spates for hosting us at Little Bar in Palm Desert, CA, and to the fine staff at the McCallum Theatre, without whose segment sponsorship this program would not be made possible to bring you every single week. Please support these enterprises as doing so helps support our ability to deliver hours of entertainment each month to our loyal followers.

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60 recent

April 6, 20261 hr 10 min

Big Conversations Hits 150 Episodes of Stories, Laughter, Legacy | Guest Host: Bruce Fessier

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, the tables turn as legendary Coachella Valley journalist Bruce Fessier steps in as guest host to celebrate the podcast’s 150th episode milestone. What follows is a lively, heartfelt, and often hilarious look back at three years of unforgettable conversations, iconic guests, and behind-the-scenes moments that defined the show. From celebrity encounters and emotional interviews to unexpected revelations and laugh-out-loud stories, the hosts, guest episode host and executive producer John McMullen on what makes the podcast unique—authentic, unscripted dialogue with fascinating people. They revisit standout episodes, discuss the evolution of the show, and explore the magic of letting conversations unfold naturally. Along the way, they share insights into storytelling, interviewing, and the rich cultural fabric of the Coachella Valley. It’s a celebration of connection, curiosity, and the people who make every episode memorable.Takeaways:The podcast celebrates its milestone 150th episode after three years.Authentic, unscripted conversations are the show’s defining strength.The Coachella Valley is filled with fascinating, untold personal stories.Great interviews come from listening, not just asking questions.Some of the best moments happen when guests go off-script.High-profile guests often become the most relatable in conversation.The show has built credibility through organic guest connections.There’s no shortage of future stories or compelling guests to feature.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #BruceFessier #JohnMcMullen #150Episodes #PodcastMilestone #CoachellaValleyStories #DesertLife #PodcastHighlights #StorytellingMatters #LocalVoices #EntertainmentTalk #BehindTheMic #PodcastCommunity #UnscriptedConversations

March 31, 20261 hr 0 min

Baratunde Thurston, Media Entrepreneur | Balancing Technology, Humanity, and the Future Together

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, Patrick sits down solo with media entrepreneur and digital thinker Baratunde Thurston for a wide-ranging, deeply human conversation about technology, identity, and community. Randy is away due to a family loss on this episode. The discussion takes on an intimate tone as Baratunde shares his perspective on artificial intelligence, warning not of machines taking over—but of humans becoming too machine-like. He explores how we can live well with technology while preserving meaning, connection, and democracy. The conversation also dives into his upbringing in Washington, D.C., his influential mother, and the experiences that shaped his bestselling book How to Be Black. From working at The Onion to building new media ventures, Baratunde reflects on storytelling, culture, and the responsibility we all share in shaping the future together.Takeaways:AI’s greatest risk is humans losing humanity, not machines taking overTechnology should enhance life—not replace meaningful experiencesAI reflects human input, including both our best and worst traitsCommunity involvement is essential in shaping AI’s futureStorytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understandingIdentity is complex and cannot be defined by a single narrativeEarly life experiences deeply shape perspective and purposeCollaboration and curiosity drive innovation and progress#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #BaratundeThurston #ArtificialIntelligence #LifeWithMachines #TechnologyAndHumanity #DigitalFuture #Storytelling #CommunityMatters #PodcastLife #Innovation #TheOnion #PBS

March 24, 20261 hr 4 min

Eric Frankson, Musician & Humanitarian | Music, Kindness, and Changing Lives in the Desert

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, the hosts welcome musician and humanitarian Eric Frankson for an inspiring and deeply human conversation. Eric shares his journey from professional musician and piano bar performer to becoming a driving force behind local outreach efforts helping unhoused individuals in the Coachella Valley. Through his work with Well in the Desert, he has helped provide tens of thousands of meals, clothing, and essential services to those in need. Eric also recounts the powerful moment that sparked his mission, his innovative bike donation program, and how small acts of kindness can ripple outward to create meaningful change. Along the way, he opens up about his personal path to sobriety and how it transformed both his life and music. It’s a heartfelt discussion about compassion, resilience, and making a difference right where you are.Takeaways:Small acts of kindness can create powerful ripple effectsHomelessness often begins with sudden life disruptionsMeeting immediate needs is key to long-term solutionsCommunity partnerships are essential for meaningful impactProviding dignity is just as important as providing aidPersonal recovery journeys can fuel purpose-driven livesLocal action can create real, measurable changeCompassion and consistency build stronger communities#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #EricFrankson #WellInTheDesert #HelpingUnhoused #Musician #HomelessnessAwareness #CommunityImpact #LocalHeroes #KindnessMatters #NonprofitWork #AddictionRecovery #DesertLife #VolunteerWork #HumanitarianEfforts

March 17, 202659 min

Legendary Journalist Hank Plante Reflects on Truth, Courage, and Change

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, award-winning journalist Hank Plante shares an extraordinary career journey from copy boy at The Washington Post to one of television news’ most respected voices. He reflects on covering the AIDS crisis in San Francisco, where his reporting helped inform and save lives during one of America’s most challenging public health emergencies. The conversation dives into unforgettable interviews with presidents, political icons, and cultural figures, revealing the art of asking tough questions and earning trust. Plante also opens up about being one of the first openly gay TV reporters, the personal toll of the AIDS epidemic, and how journalism has changed over the decades. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, this episode offers a powerful look at storytelling, integrity, and the enduring importance of truth in media and society today.Takeaways:Journalism careers can begin in unexpected ways and evolve quicklyThe AIDS crisis coverage required courage, compassion, and persistenceSilence in interviews can reveal deeper truths than questionsGreat reporters anticipate and represent the audience’s concernsPersonal identity can shape and strengthen journalistic perspectiveBuilding trust is essential for securing impactful interviewsMedia has shifted from fact-based reporting to opinion-driven contentConfidence often comes from overcoming personal struggles#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #HankPlante #Journalism #AIDSCrisis #BroadcastNews #MediaIntegrity #InvestigativeReporting #NewsAnchors #LGBTQHistory #SanFranciscoNews #PoliticalInterviews #StorytellingMatters #PressFreedom #MediaEvolution

March 9, 202659 min

Jimmy Steinfeldt, Photographer | Capturing Rock Legends Through a Camera Lens

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, music photographer Jimmy Steinfeldt shares the incredible journey that took him from a simple Minolta camera to photographing some of the biggest legends in rock and entertainment. Jimmy explains how a cross-country trip sparked his passion for photography and led him into the electrifying world of concert photography. Over the decades he captured unforgettable images of artists like Prince, Keith Richards, Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra. Jimmy also recounts remarkable behind-the-scenes stories—driving Johnny Cash to a photo shoot, photographing the night Prince recorded Purple Rain, and watching fireworks beside Rod Stewart after a show. The conversation explores his career documenting music history, his acclaimed book Rock and Roll Lens, and his upcoming photography exhibit featuring iconic artists. With humor, nostalgia, and unforgettable stories, Jimmy reveals how timing, persistence, and passion helped him turn a love of music into a legendary photographic career.Takeaways:Jimmy Steinfeldt discovered photography after buying a camera for a cross-country road trip.His love of music naturally led him to photographing concerts.Early photos appeared in local magazines before landing national publications like Spin.He captured historic moments including Prince’s Purple Rain performance.Jimmy photographed legendary artists including Keith Richards, Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra.He has published a book titled Rock and Roll Lens featuring photos and stories from his career.Many of his images are distributed worldwide through Getty Images.His upcoming exhibit with photographer Harry Langdon highlights iconic rock photography.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #JimmySteinfeldt #MusicPhotography #RockPhotography #RockLegends #ConcertPhotography #MusicHistory #PrincePurpleRain #KeithRichards #RodStewart #FrankSinatra #MichaelJackson #RockAndRollPhotography #PhotographyExhibit

March 2, 20261 hr 5 min

Ron Nyswaner, Filmmaker | From Small-Town Dreamer to Hollywood Storyteller

Filmmaker Ron Nyswaner joins Patrick Evans and Randy Florence on this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar for an engaging and emotional conversation about his remarkable journey from a tiny Pennsylvania town to the heights of Hollywood. He reflects on the early break that changed his life, the mentorship that shaped his career, and the making of landmark projects that helped redefine cultural conversations. The discussion explores the courage behind creating Philadelphia, the realities of today’s entertainment industry, and the importance of passion in storytelling. Nyswaner also shares deeply personal stories about family, loss, love, and recovery, offering rare insight into the experiences that inform his work. Along the way, listeners hear behind-the-scenes moments from Homeland, Fellow Travelers, and upcoming projects. It’s a candid, funny, and moving episode about perseverance, authenticity, and the power of meaningful stories to change both careers and lives.Takeaways:A chance connection launched a life-changing Hollywood careerMentorship played a pivotal role in early successPhiladelphia was created with intention and courageThe entertainment industry has become more risk-aversePassion, not algorithms, drives meaningful storytellingHomeland’s writers’ room demanded speed and sharp thinkingPersonal loss and sobriety shaped the memoir deeplyGratitude, not ego, defines a lasting creative career#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #RonNyswaner #FilmmakerInterview #HollywoodScreenwriter #PhiladelphiaFilm #FellowTravelers #HomelandSeries #LGBTQStorytelling #EntertainmentIndustry #ScreenwritingLife #PodcastEpisode #CreativeJourney #FilmAndTelevision #StorytellingMatters

February 23, 20261 hr 0 min

Miss Jane Guy, Performer | Comedy, Tap, and Showbiz Stories Unleashed

In this lively episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence, the hosts welcome performer and tap dance powerhouse Miss Jane Guy for a wildly entertaining conversation packed with humor, showbiz history, and behind-the-scenes stories. From her upbringing in a theatrical family in Melbourne to building one of Australia’s largest tap dance communities, Jane shares the winding path that led her to Palm Springs. The trio dives into the origins of the cult-favorite Skippy and Bitsy, the realities of live theater mishaps, and the unexpected journey that brought Jane to the Coachella Valley. Along the way, they trade stories about classic television, roadside Americana, and the quirks of performing life. Equal parts heartfelt and hilarious, this episode captures the spirit of creative reinvention and the joy of never taking yourself too seriously.Takeaways:Miss Jane Guy grew up in a showbiz family in Melbourne.She built a massive adult tap dance community in Australia.Skippy and Bitsy was born from long rehearsal drives.Palm Springs became home after years of visiting.Roadside Americana inspires her creative curiosity.Live theater mishaps often create the best moments.Classic TV fandom plays a big role in her world.Reinvention and humor are keys to lasting in showbiz.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #MissJaneGuy #PalmSpringsEntertainment #TapDanceLife #ShowbizStories #DesertTheater #ComedyPodcast #LiveTheaterLife #RoadsideWonderland #PerformingArtsLife #PodcastInterview #EntertainmentTalk #CreativeJourney #TheaterCommunity

February 16, 202657 min

Brian Ray | Inside A Legendary Musician’s Desert Roots

Recorded in the corner booth at Skip Paige’s Little Bar in Palm Desert, this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence blends local pride with big-league music history. The hosts open with a playful recap of an unexpected onstage moment at the McCallum Theatre for Patrick, then welcome musician Brian Ray—best known as a member of Paul McCartney’s band since 2002. Ray shares how he became deeply involved with the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre restoration, including the whirlwind “Rock the Plaza” fundraiser that helped generate major support, plus behind-the-scenes details on donations, production build-outs, and what it took to reopen a landmark venue. From Glendale beginnings and early gigs at the Troubadour to touring with Etta James and landing a career-defining call from a fellow drummer, Ray reflects on ambition, mentorship, and the surprising turns that shape a life in music. A warm, funny, and inspiring conversation.Takeaways:A spontaneous moment at the McCallum Theatre sets a light, local tone before the main interview.Brian Ray explains how a first visit to the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre sparked a mission to help restore it.“Rock the Plaza” became a high-stakes fundraiser, built fast with donated sound/lighting and major artist participation.The restoration’s hidden costs included digging out infrastructure for modern HVAC, power, and connectivity.Ray helped bring key resources to the theatre, including a large video wall and professional backline gear.His musical story runs from Glendale and early family influence to the Troubadour as a teenager.A long relationship with Etta James shaped his career, including years as band leader and later collaborations.Joining Paul McCartney’s band came from the right connection, the right skill set, and a huge audition moment.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #BrianRay #PaulMcCartney #EttaJames #PalmSpringsPlazaTheatre #PalmDesert #PlazaTheatreFoundation #RockThePlaza #McCallumTheatre #DesertTrip #LiveMusic #MusicFundraiser #BandLife

February 9, 20261 hr 0 min

Nelda Linsk | Palm Springs Glamour, Modernism, And Iconic Memories

Step into Palm Springs history with a conversation that feels like slipping into a poolside cabana in 1970. This episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence welcomes Nelda Linsk—soon to be honored as First Lady of Modernism—for stories spanning fashion, philanthropy, architecture, and the golden era of desert social life. Nelda shares the behind-the-scenes truth of Slim Aarons’ legendary “Poolside Gossip” photo shoot at the Kaufmann House: no stylists, no makeup team, just friends, champagne, and a tripod—finished in about an hour. She recalls the Racquet Club days when celebrities escaped Hollywood attention, and the parties, charity events, and fashion shows that shaped the valley’s culture. The conversation also explores her friendship with Barbara Sinatra, the founding of the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, and why firsthand memories still matter. Expect laughs, name-drops, and pure Palm Springs magic!Takeaways:Nelda Linsk will be recognized as “First Lady of Modernism,” including an updated star dedication.“Poolside Gossip” was lightly staged: Slim Aarons called ahead, asked for friends, and kept it casual.The shoot had no glam squad—just a tripod and camera—yet became globally iconic.The Kaufmann House’s architecture and lifestyle helped make the image aspirational worldwide.Palm Springs’ Racquet Club era offered celebrities privacy, fueling a unique social scene.Nelda and her husband restored and enhanced the Kaufmann House with major design talent.Nelda’s friendship with Barbara Sinatra connected to major philanthropy, including the Children’s Center.The episode highlights how Palm Springs changed as retail and tourism shifted toward Palm Desert.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #NeldaLinsk #Modernism #PalmSprings #ModernismWeek #PoolsideGossip #SlimAarons #KaufmannHouse #MidcenturyModern #PalmSpringsHistory #DesertGlamour #BarbaraSinatra #SinatraLegacy #Philanthropy

February 2, 202649 min

Scott Coulter & Michael Childers: Stories From The Producers of Palm Springs’ One Night In Hollywood

From the corner booth at Skip Paige’s Little Bar, the conversation swings from karaoke dreams to the real work of building a thriving arts scene. Singer-producer Scott Coulter shares how his company, Spot-On Entertainment, grew from performing to creating concert experiences for orchestras and performing arts centers nationwide—plus how the Palm Springs Pops Orchestra and Plaza Theatre programming are bringing fresh energy downtown. Photographer-producer Michael Childers adds Hollywood history, personal milestones, and a playful (sometimes outrageous) nostalgia for the Plaza’s past, while also reflecting on how AI is expanding creative possibilities in photography and exhibitions. Along the way: stories of Dolly Parton, Broadway paths not taken, the power of live performance as “church,” and why restored venues matter to artists and communities. The episode spotlights friendship, gratitude, and the momentum behind Coachella Valley’s cultural renaissance.TakeawaysThe Plaza Theatre restoration isn’t cosmetic—it’s major infrastructure: sound, air, and artist-first spaces.The Palm Springs Pops Orchestra is anchoring a multi-show series that blends local talent with major guests.Scott Coulter’s Spot-On Entertainment evolved from performing into producing concert concepts worldwide.A career “no” (and being ghosted after an audition) can redirect you into building your own platform.Michael Childers’ life story mirrors the arc of LGBTQ+ progress—visibility, partnership, and late-in-life marriage.Downtown Palm Springs performing arts drive real economic impact: audiences, restaurants, and nightlife momentum.Live performance is framed as modern “ministry”: connection, healing, and shared language through music.#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #McCallumTheatre #ScottCoulter #MichaelChilders #PlazaTheatre #PalmSpringsPopsOrchestra #SpotOnEntertainment #OneNightInHollywood #PalmSpringsArts #Cabaret #Wicked #AIPhotography #DowntownPalmSprings #LivePerformance