A Page in History

Ken Hommel - Saturday Night Live - Television Programming

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Saturday Night Live! You'll hear untold stories and secrets of this iconic show. 
Discover the unexpected connections between Prince, Batman, and SNL. 
Uncover the shocking truth about the 15th Anniversary of SNL and the notable absence of a certain someone. 
Hear about Robin Williams' impromptu performance for a tour group, showcasing his incredible talent. 
Learn how to secure tickets for the show, including standby tickets; the process is quite an ordeal! 
Find out if Marci Klein, Calvin's daughter, really had her panties in an uproar! 
Hear about the magic of set construction as we explore how the elaborate sets for SNL are built and brought into the studio. 
And explore the golden era of television programming in the early 90s and gain insights into ratings, budgets, scheduling, and advertising.
Plus, you’ll discover valuable tips on making friends and networking to break into the entertainment business. 
Don't miss this captivating episode of "A Page in History" with our special guest Ken Hommel.

Suzie Santomauro - Late Night With David Letterman - Late Night with Conan O’Brien

Get ready for an unforgettable episode of "A Page in History" as we dive into the thrilling journey of this wonderful guest! Starting as an NBC Page in the late 80s, her career skyrocketed as she ventured into the world of television. From working at Conan O'Brien's show and the NBC News Democratic Convention to House Party and Sunday Best, she has experienced it all. But it was that fateful day when David Letterman pulled her into an impromptu game of human fetch that changed everything. Sent on a wild goose chase to retrieve Joan Collins, she found herself in a scuffle with the actress's manager. Little did she know that this incident would make her a household name, winning David Letterman's admiration. Catch the attention-grabbing tale of her rise to fame and her incredible journey from Page to television personality. Don't miss the captivating episode of "A Page in History" with our special guest, Suzie Santomauro.

Janice Penino - Howard Stern - David Letterman - NBC Guest Relations

This guest gets a special pass for today’s conversation because although she technically wasn’t an NBC Page, she might as well have been one! 
She was actually the department director, who oversaw hundreds of Pages navigate their own careers. But before she held that prestigious title, she was working in other roles for the National Broadcasting Company. 
She once worked on a team that helped create some successful folks that went on to superstardom! Perhaps you’ve heard of a guy named Howard Stern, yes our next guest worked on a little radio station called WNBC. She even went on to work for a guy named David Letterman! 
You are going to hear those stories and a lot more. Don't miss this captivating episode of "A Page in History" with our special guest Janice Penino!

Herbie J Pilato - Johnny Carson - Bewitched - Michael Gross - Classic TV

Get ready for some star-studded stories through television history with this next guest.
Before David Hasselhoff had KITT, this guest had the opportunity to step into the role for a brief moment. He also duplicated this task for Michael J Fox, and Harry Anderson. 
And what do classic cars have to do with the Golden Girls? You’ll find out! 
And Johnny Carson was the real king of late night, you’ll hear what he was really like plus, what it was like to work on The Tonight Show!
Plus, he’s written over a dozen wonderful books that cover the world of classic television, including the TV series Bewitched, Mary Tyler Moore, The Six Million Dollar Man, Bionic Woman, and many more! 
And he also went on to work for some powerhouse media companies including Sony, Warner Bros., Bravo, TLC, A&E, CNN, and more! 
Don't miss this captivating episode of "A Page in History" with our special guest Herbie J Pilato!

Brooke Bizzell Stachyra - David Letterman - Saturday Night Live - Al Roker

In this episode, our guest had a BRUSH WITH GREATNESS that involved none other than the iconic David Letterman and a bona fide blockbuster star!
She also had the unique experience of being a bouncer for Saturday Night Live!
But before she took on the role as an NBC Page, our guest started her journey as a wide-eyed WNBC intern. Little did she know at the time that Pages were not security guards. She had the privilege of working alongside America's beloved weatherman, Al Roker. 
Our guest also found herself crossing paths with a controversial figure, Bill Cosby.
And if that wasn't enough, she also witnessed what many consider the turning point in Sinead O'Connor's career—a moment that sent shockwaves through the industry and the world.
You'll hear those stories and more when we speak to Brooke Bizzell Stachyra in this exciting episode of "A Page in History." 

Roger Hyman - Jay Leno - Johnny Carson - David Letterman

On this electrifying episode of "A Page in History," prepare to be captivated as we dive into the enchanting world behind Johnny Carson's timeless segment, "Stump The Band." Experience firsthand the enthralling journey of celebrated opera tenor, Luciano Pavarotti, as he sought profound enlightenment to grasp the complete narrative. Immerse yourself in the privileged role of our guest, who provided solace and wisdom to the legendary Oprah Winfrey. Furthermore, gain insight into the clandestine practices of the one and only Barry Manilow. And rest assured, witness the genuine benevolence radiating from Jay Leno, a true embodiment of integrity. Brace yourself for the tumultuous uproar that unfolded among the NBC Pages when David Letterman made his momentous West Coast appearance. Join us as we unveil these captivating tales and more on this extraordinary episode of "A Page in History" featuring Roger Hyman.

Lee Nelson - Robin Williams - Keith Richards - Sam Kinison

Prepare to be enthralled by this extraordinary guest, a former NBC Page during the vibrant mid-80s era. He’ll recount a mesmerizing encounter with the legendary Frank Sinatra himself, observing in awe as the iconic "Ol' Blue Eyes" rehearsed before a momentous show. He’ll uncover the thrilling secret mission where he engaged Theo, the beloved character from "The Cosby Show," in covert surveillance. Marvel at the unique opportunity bestowed upon him by none other than Keith Richards, as he assisted the legendary musician in capturing the perfect picture. Experience the adrenaline rush of being entrusted by a Letterman producer to tactfully escort the fiery Sam Kinison from the premises. And prepare to be amazed as he recounts a wild escapade with the unparalleled Robin Williams, where they embarked on an elevator adventure, playfully exploring the consequences of pressing every button. Brace yourself for an abundance of astonishing tales as our esteemed guest, Lee Nelson, takes center stage on this captivating episode of "A Page in History."

Tom Kelly - Rosie O’Donnell - Chevy Chase - Jewel

Get ready for an unforgettable episode of "A Page in History" as we delve into a clash of the Hollywood titans, where Rosie O'Donnell and Tom Selleck find themselves entangled in an unexpected and awkward predicament that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Prepare to be moved as comedic genius Chevy Chase goes above and beyond to make heartfelt amends to a group of disgruntled audience members, showcasing a side of him rarely seen.
But that's not all! Prepare to be surprised as Jewel unleashes a tune that may leave you surprised and unsettled. 
And if you thought things couldn't get any more intriguing, we uncover the truth behind if Conan O'Brien has a peculiar and undying love affair with bananas.
Don't miss out on this spellbinding installment of "A Page in History" featuring Tom Kelly. 

Elizabeth Trostler LaBan - David Spade - Jane Pauley - Nightly News

Prepare to be enthralled by the incredible journey of our next guest, as she takes us on an extraordinary odyssey from her humble beginnings as an East Coast NBC Page in the early 90s to her current stature as a highly accomplished journalist and writer.
Get ready for a delightful tale as she shares the story of how she surprised David Spade pretending to be in show business! 
And hold on tight for a humorous incident where the iconic David Letterman mistook her for a garbage can, resulting in an amusing encounter.
She had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing the legendary actors Rob Lowe and Tom Hanks as they prepared to grace the stage for their memorable performances on Saturday Night Live, providing her with an insider's perspective into their craft and star power. 
Moreover, she cultivated a special bond with the esteemed Jane Pauley, earning the privilege of being on a first-name basis with the iconic journalist and adding a touch of prestige to her career.
Prepare to be enthralled as Elizabeth Trostler LaBan shares these captivating stories and many more on this episode of "A Page in History." 

Barron Wellman - Cheers - Danny Devito - George Burns

Our special guest rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry including Gregory Peck, Jimmy Stewart, Charles Bronson, Bob Hope, Milton Berle, and Sammy Davis Jr. 
And he worked on iconic television shows like Cheers, Family Ties, and Taxi!
He even received a call from NBC Chairman and CEO Grant Tinker who thanked him for being a real superhero and presented him with a token of the Network's appreciation. 
He'll share anecdotes that showcase the real personalities of celebrities like Danny DeVito, who believed his fame entitled him to special treatment and George Gobel, the beloved Hollywood star and frequent guest of Hollywood Squares, who had a fondness for cozying up to the bar. 
And let's not forget the taping of “Real People” with none other than the legendary George Burns, or was it? 
And one night, he played a vital part in The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, ensuring that Wayne Newton and his people wouldn't annoy the late-night king during the show. 
Hear about his encounters with famous actors like Mel Brooks and Mac Davis, to whom he personally delivered some colorful presents. 
And hear the surprising connection between our guest and the Smothers Brothers. 
Plus, he'll tell us heartwarming tales of friendship with the delightful Betty White and the legendary Ed McMahon, as well as the sight of Cher frequently gracing the studio with her presence. 
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through television history and the captivating life of an NBC Page. Please enjoy the show with our special guest, Barron Wellman.