A Page in History

Lesa Mattingly - Late 70’s - Robin Williams - Don Rickles

On this episode of "A Page in History," this guest started her career as a West Coast Page in 1977. Her first job after training was working for Rowan and Martin on the iconic hit show 'Laugh-In.' She has an intriguing story to share about penguins, and it even involves the legendary Robin Williams.
Through this memorable encounter, she forged a lasting friendship with Robin Williams and his wife. She'll delve into her experiences with Robin, sharing why he was consistently a genuine gentleman who never failed to drop by and say hello. She even had the privilege of having his number on speed dial.
She also had warm words for Jimmy Stewart, and she'll share anecdotes about his incredible generosity and kindness.
She once had an unexpected encounter with comedy legends Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor. Tune in to discover the unique circumstances that brought them together and what memorable words they shared."
She also had the incredible opportunity to work for one of The Beatles, Ringo Starr. During her time with him, she found herself in a rather unusual situation when Ringo's wife issued a threat. However, Ringo's response was quite remarkable. Stay tuned to hear all the intriguing details.
She'll share an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience involving the master insult comic, the legendary Don Rickles. She'll recount how she unexpectedly found herself in his comedic crosshairs, with a barrage of insults flying like rapid bullets. You won't want to miss this incredible and far-out story.
During her tenure at 'The Tonight Show' with Johnny Carson, one ordinary day, as she strolled through the show's bustling hallways, she accidentally overheard news that would go on to reshape the world. Listen in to discover the revelation and learn how it profoundly impacted the show's audience members.
And now, shifting gears to a different kind of crazy, wild crowd - no, we're not referring to your rowdy pals at the neighborhood bar; we're talking about the unforgettable audience members of 'The Gong Show!' Join us as she recounts her experiences working on the show and get ready to hear a particularly extraordinary story. It's about one banned audience member who refused to accept 'no' for an answer and, shockingly, ended up causing thousands of dollars in damage to the building. 
Our next guest also had a close friendship with an actor from 'The Rockford Files.' Prepare to be entertained as she shares an amusing tale of how this actor, along with her and a group of Page buddies, went out to dinner at the renowned Carol O'Connor's restaurant. However, what happened that evening will surprise you, and you'll surely enjoy this hilarious story."
Please enjoy this groovy podcast with Lesa Mattingly! 

Ben Hoffman - Letterman & Live at Five - Schwarzenegger - Don Pardo

Get ready to dive deep into a captivating episode of "A Page in History" that will transport you to the vibrant world of NBC in the late '80s. 
Ever wondered what it's like to be the barrier between David Letterman and a TV studio? Our guest not only had to stop the late-night legend from crashing the Live at 5 set but also witnessed a surprising turn of events that left everyone shocked. And it involved cake and ice cream! 
From a life-changing assignment in DC to moonlighting as a roadie on Saturday Night Live, our guest's journey is a mosaic of unforgettable experiences. 
Imagine rubbing shoulders with David Johanson and other legends at Madison Square Garden—it's not a dream; it's just another day in the life of an NBC Page.
But the excitement doesn't end there. Picture this: a snapshot with NBC President Jack Welch and a heartwarming tale of camaraderie with talk show host Phil Donahue. 
And our guest spills the foot-stomping story that made him so happy when he received his official NBC Page uniform! 
For all you 30 Rock enthusiasts, get ready for a backstage pass as our guest shares how NBC Pages like himself roamed free, exploring the studios, and all their tape machines, cameras, and lighting equipment. His friendship with a Lighting Supervisor even led to an education that rivals the best film schools!
But that's not all—he was able to tell Mr. Schwarzenegger, SHE'LL BE BACK! It's not a made-up story!  
He worked with the legendary Don Pardo, who he tracked to produce a voice-over for NBC stations nationwide. 
From CNBC to the BBC, his journey is a whirlwind of fascinating tales that will leave you hanging on every word.
So buckle up and stay tuned for an enthralling conversation with Mr. Benjamin Hoffman!

Doug Sivco - Bill Murray - Cheap Trick - Eddie Murphy

Get ready for an extraordinary journey in today's episode of "A Page in History" and hear stories from the 1980s!
Hear how our next guest made small talk with some lovely ladies and told them the Bandit would be by any minute. To his surprise, the one and only Burt Reynolds did make an appearance. 
Hear how our guest faced the amusing trials of inexperience, once preventing an NBC Anchor from entering the building—an unforgettable blunder that speaks volumes about the learning curve of his fascinating journey.
From tickling the ivories as a guest piano player on the set of Saturday Night Live, where he shared the stage with the incomparable Eddie Murphy, to becoming a news and sports anchor for affiliates of NBC, CBS, and Fox, his career is a testament to his versatility and resilience.
Hear about his encounter with a political figure and the near mishap of almost knocking Ted Kennedy to the ground right before an interview on Meet the Press. 
And who could forget the unconventional swim in the fountain at Rockefeller Plaza with none other than the legendary Bill Murray?
His journey is sprinkled with memorable encounters, from retrieving a guitar left behind by CHEAP TRICK to escorting Debbie Harry of Blondie on Valentine's Day, receiving a box of chocolates in gratitude. 
He even played a pivotal role in helping David Letterman find his dressing room on his first day in NYC, setting the stage for the iconic career that followed.
One of the most remarkable chapters of our guest involves sleeping in his car for six straight nights at Cape Canaveral while working as a production assistant for the TODAY SHOW during the lead-up to the first Space Shuttle Launch in 1981. 
He sang and played piano for a duet with another NBC employee in the first ALL-NBC TALENT SHOW, held in 8-H. Tom Snyder was hosting.
Join us on a captivating journey through the pages of his remarkable life, sharing anecdotes that span from the humorous to the heartwarming and reminding us that sometimes, the most unforgettable moments are written in the margins of history. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Doug Sivco!

Judith Lupatkin Bernstein - Paul McCartney - Kenneth the Page Parcell - John Cena

Get ready for a journey through the captivating life and incredible experiences of an East coast Page in the mid two thousands—a woman who has rubbed elbows with some of the biggest names in entertainment. 
Imagine having Paul McCartney serenade you in an elevator—well, our next guest not only lived it but managed to keep her composure. 
Starting her post-page career with USA Network, her assignment paved the way for a fascinating journey that would intertwine with iconic figures and unforgettable moments. 
You'll hear how Kenneth the Page from 30 Rock took some pointers from our next guest!
Plus, hear how her initial Page interview became a turning point, reshaping her perspective on key moments in her life.
She also shares the details of her encounter with her fellow Brookline, Mass native, hear about the encounter with none other than legendary Conan O'Brien.
Brace yourselves for tales of late-night adventures, like partying at the Saturday Night Live after-party until the wee hours, only to give a tour at 10 AM the next day.
But that's not all—she has a story of keeping Tina Fey from a bathroom-related emergency while she was shooting 30 Rock.
And hear what it was like hanging out with WWE stars of wrestling!
And on a related note hear how John Cena played an unexpected role in handling a particular Donald Trump situation. 
Get ready to be entertained as she spills the beans on what it's like to witness big-name celebrities transform after hair and makeup and how some of them might be shorter than you ever imagined.
So buckle up for an episode filled with laughter, surprises, and an insider's perspective on the entertainment world. Without further ado, let's give a warm welcome to the one and only Judith Lupatkin Bernstein!

Rob Port - WNBC Sing-Along - Local Advertising & Promotion - Maury Povich - Chevy Chase

On this week's episode of "A Page in History," hear about WNBC's iconic holiday tradition, the talent and employee Sing-Along, plus a lot more! 
Our paths first crossed in a different lifetime; we'll discuss this trailblazing experience! 
He embarked on his journey as an NBC Page on the East Coast in 1989, marking the beginning of a long and fascinating career!
His anecdotes are not only priceless but also timely! Get ready to hear his entertaining tale involving Chevy Chase, and rest assured; it doesn't include falling off a stage; it's a real pisser!
Discover how Sam Kinison extended more than just a late-night snack during our guest's stint at the 15th Anniversary celebration of Saturday Night Live!
His sense of style was perpetually ahead of the curve, and you won't believe what he did with his polyester uniform! You'll hear how he strutted down "FIFTH AVENUE," always looking impeccable.
Get ready as he shares stories about one of my absolute favorite individuals—an iconic television industry veteran!
He was the undisputed holder of the singing crown, and if you've tuned into WNBC during the holidays, you know there's one cherished tradition that New Yorkers and employees eagerly await. Our next guest was the pied piper; you'll hear how he managed everyone to play-a-long!
He had the prestigious role of playing the bouncer at the legendary Saturday Night Live after-parties!
And indulging in Sunday Morning Football is a treat, but our next guest took it to the next level with his mini gambling haven nestled in the heart of 30 Rock! I'll bet you're going to love this story!
Also, our next guest IS NOT THE FATHER, but he could be an uncle! Tune in to discover how crossing paths with Maury Povich was life-changing!
He'll also share heartfelt memories of a dear friend who left this world too soon. However, after you hear the tales about this friend, there's no doubt he's up there looking down, enjoying a good laugh.
Never underestimate NBC security—they've earned their stripes, and their stories pack a punch. Get ready to hear why you should never mess around with the force that is NBC security!
He's set to offer a toast to Matt Lauer before the infamous scandal unfolded; hear his unique perspective.
In the 90s, crime families held a firm grip on the city, but one man sought to tell their stories for WNBC News. Remarkably, this individual ascended to become the Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism for the NYPD and, before that, he worked for the FBI and ABC News. Our next guest will reveal how his friendship with this man played a transformative role in his life. And if that wasn't enough, you'll hear a tale of how both chased the elusive Zodiac killer!
Please tune in to discover the wild story of how he found himself on the receiving end of a memorable beatdown during the taping of Donahue!
He boasts an impressive resume as an Executive Producer, Producer, and Writer, contributing his talents to renowned projects such as Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Training Day, Agent X, the TV series Numbers, Arrest & Trial, and even clinching an Academy Award for the impactful film Twin Towers!
Don't miss this exciting episode of "A Page in History," featuring Mr. Rob Port!