Celebrity Interviews LIVE From The Grotto With Greg Hanna

In this inspiring holiday edition of Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, actor, comedian, and philanthropist Kel Mitchell joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to share his heart for giving—just in time for Giving Tuesday.Famous for his iconic roles on All That and Kenan & Kel, Kel now uses his platform to uplift others through his work with World Vision, the Christian humanitarian organization helping vulnerable families around the world. He shares how partnering with World Vision helped him deepen his passion for service, and how their Gift Catalog makes it easy for families to give meaningfully this season.Kel also discusses his new feel-good reality show Play It Forward: Game On, where he surprises youth sports teams in need with emotional makeovers and game-changing donations.Why World Vision?Kel breaks down what drew him to the organization during the pandemic, and why their commitment to faith, clean water, emergency aid, and child sponsorship resonates with him deeply.How the Gift Catalog WorksWith over 100 meaningful gifts, donors can give goats, clean water, food kits, and more to families in need—both internationally and right here in the U.S.Creating a Culture of Giving at HomeKel shares how reviewing the catalog with his own kids helps teach gratitude and compassion during the holidays.Making an Impact with “Play It Forward”Kel’s latest Nickelodeon series brings emotional, life-changing surprises to under-resourced youth teams. With help from Dick’s Sporting Goods, he outfits gyms, provides gear, and celebrates hardworking coaches and players.Faith, Mental Health & Letting GoKel shares his own spiritual perspective and the powerful lesson of “renewing your mind daily”—letting go of yesterday to embrace purpose today.“Be the reason someone smiles today—and find the joy in everything.”— Kel Mitchell“You might be hearing this for a reason. Maybe you’ve wanted to give but didn’t know how. This is your moment.”— Kel Mitchell on Giving Tuesday“Spread love like confetti.”— Kel Mitchell“Yesterday is gone. What are you doing today? Let’s get it.”— Kel Mitchell on renewing your mind daily“We’re not just surprising teams with equipment—we’re telling stories, lifting spirits, and investing in futures.”— Kel Mitchell on Play It ForwardWorld Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization helping children, families, and communities tackle the causes of poverty and injustice in nearly 100 countries. This Giving Tuesday, they encourage families to make a tangible difference through their Gift Catalog, featuring gifts like:🐐 Goats & chickens for farming families💧 Clean water systems🧺 Emergency food kits for families in crisis📚 Child sponsorships🍎 Fresh produce for children in the U.S.👉 Learn more or donate: worldvision.org📅 Airs: Wednesdays at 5 PM EST📍 Network: Nickelodeon & Paramount+🎯 Format: Kel surprises under-resourced youth teams with new gear, upgraded gyms, and heartfelt encouragement💥 Bonus: Kel goes undercover and brings laughs and tears in every episode👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly viewing that inspires service, gratitude, and community“Renew your mind daily. Don't stay stuck in what happened yesterday—God made you for a purpose.”Website & Merch: kelmitchell.com (if available)Social: @IAmKelMitchell (Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook)Show Info: Check out Play It Forward: Game On on Nickelodeon & Paramount+✨ Topics Covered:💬 Notable Quotes:🧡 About World Vision:📺 About Play It Forward: Game On🧭 Final Life Lesson from Kel Mitchell:📲 Connect with Kel:

In this multi-generational, heartwarming conversation, legendary Monkee Micky Dolenz and his daughter Ami Dolenz join Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to share the story behind their new children’s book: Lalu Toot-Toot.Micky brings his lifelong fascination with science, anthropology, and storytelling into focus with the creation of his "anthro-mythology" series, reimagining pivotal moments in early human history. Ami, an actress-turned-illustrator, brings the book to life with vibrant watercolor illustrations, transforming a bedtime tale into a beautifully crafted children’s story.Together, they discuss their collaboration, family memories, and how imagination and love of learning are at the heart of their creative work.The Origin of Lalu Toot-TootMicky reveals the story’s spark: a fascination with early human history and the discovery of the oldest known musical instrument.Anthro-Mythology ExplainedFictionalizing key moments in prehistory—like the invention of music—told through the eyes of a curious young boy named Lalu and his musical bird friend, Fleet.Ami's Artistic ProcessHow Ami translated her father’s story into watercolor illustrations as part of a school project—sparking the idea to turn it into a published book.Memories of StorytellingThe pair recall “Harold and Agatha,” Micky’s off-the-cuff stories told during summer visits that planted the seed for Ami’s passion for children’s literature.Collaborating as Father and DaughterThey talk about their creative rhythm, mutual respect, and how working on Lalu Toot-Toot strengthened their bond.What Makes a Great Children’s BookMicky and Ami reflect on the importance of visuals, pacing, imagination—and avoiding scenes where the bear gets killed before bedtime.“If you can show it in a picture, don’t say it in the words.”— Micky Dolenz“It started as a school project. I needed something to illustrate—and my dad had the perfect story.”— Ami Dolenz“It was the end of summer, and the end of the story… both made me sad.”— Ami Dolenz on childhood memories with her dad“The Monkees wasn’t a band—it was a musical comedy show. Like Glee… just 40 years earlier.”— Micky DolenzTitle: Lalu Toot-TootAudience: Ages 4–10Story Summary: A young boy named Lalu is teased for mimicking birds instead of hunting like the other dwellers—until his flute playing unexpectedly brings harmony and peace to the group.Themes: Creativity, individuality, discovery, the roots of musicIllustrations: Watercolor by Ami DolenzPerfect for: Bedtime reading, classroom discussions, and curious young mindsAmi: “Be gracious. What’s inside matters more than what’s outside.”Micky: “Get a good lawyer… and remember, life is a cruel teacher—it gives the test before the lesson.”🔍 Episode Highlights:💬 Notable Quotes:🎨 Book Overview:🧭 Final Life Lessons from the Dolenz Family:

In this inspirational and heartfelt episode, Cedella Marley, daughter of global icon Bob Marley, joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley for a powerful conversation about purpose, passion, and preserving her father’s legacy while carving her own.As an author, entrepreneur, recording artist, philanthropist, and CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, Cedella shares the values that have shaped her life, the importance of storytelling across generations, and how music, culture, and sports can be used as tools for empowerment—especially for young women.She also dives into her work as Global Ambassador for the Jamaica Women’s National Football Team, her successful fashion brand, and the Marley family’s continuing mission to uplift people worldwide.Carrying the Marley Legacy ForwardCedella reflects on what it means to be Bob Marley’s daughter and how she strives to live his message through action, not just words.Marley Family Business & VisionAs CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, she oversees licensing, branding, and global philanthropy—ensuring the Marley message of peace, love, and unity stays alive for new generations.Empowering Through FootballLearn how Cedella revived and funded the Jamaican Women’s National Football Team (“The Reggae Girlz”), helping them reach the FIFA World Cup and inspiring women across the Caribbean and beyond.Music Meets MessageCedella discusses her own recording career, her approach to songwriting, and how she fuses traditional reggae with fresh, global sounds to keep the movement going.Children’s Books & Legacy LiteratureFrom One Love to Every Little Thing, Cedella has adapted her father’s most beloved lyrics into children’s stories—teaching kindness, equality, and community from the earliest age.Business with PurposeCedella opens up about running Marley Natural and her fashion line, both driven by ethical values, sustainability, and cultural pride.Spiritual Center & Personal GrowthWhat keeps Cedella grounded? Faith, family, and a clear vision of service—something instilled by both her mother and father.“I’m not just preserving my father’s legacy—I’m building on it, every single day.”— Cedella Marley“Legacy isn’t about the name—it’s about the impact. If you’re not helping people, what are you doing?”— Cedella Marley“When I saw those girls training with nothing, I knew I had to step in. That’s what family—and being Jamaican—is all about.”— Cedella Marley on the Reggae Girlz“Music, sports, and storytelling are the most powerful ways we have to shape the future. Let’s use them wisely.”— Cedella MarleyOne Love – A bestselling children’s book adaptation of Bob Marley’s iconic songEvery Little Thing – Teaches peace and reassurance through colorful storytelling52 Ways to Be More Like Marley – A year of wisdom, mindset, and actionRedemption – Cedella’s reflections on social justice, spirituality, and healingMarley Natural – A premium cannabis and wellness brandCatch A Fire Clothing – Sustainable, roots-inspired fashionCedella’s passionate advocacy helped revive the Jamaica Women’s National Football Team after they were defunded. Under her leadership and personal financial support, the Reggae Girlz qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup—becoming the first Caribbean nation to do so.Her work has helped spark a movement of women’s sports empowerment across the region.💻 Website: www.cedellamarley.com📚 Books Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Marley Family Store📲 Social Media: @cedellamarley⚽ Support the Reggae Girlz: jamaicafootballfederation.com🔍 Inside the Episode:💬 Notable Quotes:📚 Cedella’s Books & Projects:⚽ Giving Back Through the Reggae Girlz:🌱 Where to Follow and Support:

In this high-flying, mission-focused episode, Col. Terry Virts, former NASA astronaut, U.S. Air Force colonel, and International Space Station commander, joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to talk about his bold new mission—running for the U.S. Senate in Texas.From flying F-16 combat missions to commanding astronauts in orbit, Terry now sets his sights on restoring common-sense leadership in Washington. He shares his political vision, personal values, and why he's the right candidate to unify Texas across party lines.Terry breaks down key campaign issues—from healthcare reform and affordable living to public education and Texas innovation. You'll also hear his views on bipartisanship, centrist values, and the growing need for a better way forward in American politics.Why Run Now?Terry shares what inspired him to run: a love for his country, frustration with gridlock, and a mission-first mindset. He’s not a career politician—he’s a leader who gets things done.From Fighter Jets to Campaign TrailsThe story of how witnessing authoritarianism abroad as a young student in Finland shaped his early support for Reagan—and how that evolved into his current run as a Texas Democrat.The Texas Voter Reality“Texas isn’t as Republican as people think—it’s just non-voting.” Terry discusses the massive untapped voter base and how he’s reaching across ideological divides to activate it.Healthcare as an Economic IssueTerry outlines a pragmatic, cost-focused approach to reform:Expand supply of doctors and medical residenciesOffer free preventive care (mammograms, vaccines, screenings)Target cost inefficiencies without bankrupting the nationEducation, Vouchers, and Federal SupportAs a product of public schools, Terry defends education funding, opposes state voucher systems, and supports federal aid for underfunded districts and special needs programs.Immigration, Tech & InnovationAs a former astronaut and global traveler, Terry promotes smart immigration policy to attract STEM talent and strengthen Texas’ role in energy, aerospace, and AI.Bipartisanship by ExampleTerry shares stories of commanding Russian cosmonauts aboard the ISS—while Russia was invading Ukraine. His core principle: “Work with people—even your enemies—for a greater goal.”Running as a Centrist DemocratTerry openly critiques traditional party politics and DC consultants:He speaks plainly about Donald Trump’s influence on democracyHe refuses to run a poll-driven campaign of vague messagingHe embraces podcasting, town halls, and even appearing on Newsmax and Fox News to reach voters directly“Time is batting a thousand. Do what you need to do—because you never know how long you’ve got.”— Col. Terry Virts“I’m not running as a partisan—I’m running to represent all Texans: red, blue, and everything in between.”— Col. Terry Virts“As an astronaut, I had to work with Russians while they were invading Ukraine. If I can do that in orbit, I can work across the aisle in Washington.”— Col. Terry Virts“If we can catch health issues early with free preventative care, we save lives—and money. That’s smart policy.”— Col. Terry Virts“I’m the only Democrat in this race who talks about Trump—because I’m not afraid of the truth.”— Col. Terry VirtsHow to Astronaut – An insider's guide to life in spaceView from Above – A National Geographic photography journey from orbitThe Astronaut’s Guide (For Kids) – A fun, educational STEM read(Plus a future baby board book—“Some Dogs”—on hold during the campaign)📍 Website: www.terryvirts.com📍 Donate or Volunteer: Get involved in the grassroots movement📍 Social Media: @AstroTerry on X, Instagram, Facebook, and more📍 Attend a Town Hall: Check the campaign site for upcoming events“Leave everything better than you found it—your relationships, your work, and the world around you.”🗳️ Key Topics Covered:💬 Notable Quotes:📚 Terry’s Books:📌 How to Support:🧭 Final Life Lesson from Terry:

In this entertaining and insightful episode, Rusty Austin—veteran television producer turned children’s book author—joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to reflect on his 40-year career in Hollywood, including behind-the-scenes stories from iconic shows like Survivor, Hell’s Kitchen, and Nanny 911.Rusty shares how his experience shaping real-life storytelling for millions has translated into his new purpose: creating playful, poetic children’s books that encourage creativity and self-expression. His latest release, Awesome Bird: The Pelican, is a poetic tribute to nature, illustrated by middle school students and filled with humor and charm.Whether you’re a fan of classic reality TV or curious about the craft of writing for children, this episode delivers equal parts nostalgia and inspiration.Book Title: Awesome Bird: The PelicanBy: Rusty AustinAudience: Children ages 6–10 (and parents, too!)Highlights:Short, engaging 10- to 15-word poemsNonlinear format (great for reluctant readers)Do-It-Yourself pages for kids to write and drawIllustrated entirely by 7th and 8th grade studentsInspired by Rusty’s real-life school visitsThe Reality of Reality TVRusty reveals the “400-to-1” shooting ratio on Hell’s Kitchen and how raw footage becomes riveting storytelling.Coffee-Fueled Chaos on Nanny 911Find out how late-arriving executives, oversized Starbucks orders, and 26-day work weeks defined Fox’s race to beat Super Nanny to air.From Survivor to StorybooksLearn why Rusty traded cameras for crayons—and how working with children reignited his creative spark.Why Writing for Kids Is Harder Than It LooksRusty explains why brevity is key, and how keeping poems under 15 words keeps young readers engaged and entertained.How the Classroom Became His Creative StudioAfter visiting a local teacher via DonorsChoose, Rusty invited middle school students to illustrate his next book, leading to dozens of excited contributors and their work published in print.On the Future of TV & Content CreationRusty shares an honest take on the changing entertainment landscape, where local programming and digital-first content may replace traditional network TV—and why it’s both a challenge and an opportunity for independent creators.“In reality TV, we shoot the show, then write the script. In scripted TV, it’s the other way around.”— Rusty Austin“I didn’t want to be just another author—I wanted kids to be co-creators. That’s what makes this book special.”— Rusty Austin on involving student artists“This too shall pass. Forget the bad, remember the good. That’s something you learn after four decades in television.”— Rusty Austin“Local TV will survive like radio did. But creators need to think differently—and act like entrepreneurs.”— Rusty Austin on the future of TVNonlinear design—flip to any page and start readingEncourages creativity with write-your-own pagesHilarious animal characters like pelicans, toucans, and axolotlsGreat for classroom inspiration and parent-child reading timeAwesome Bird: The PelicanGet your copy at RustyAustin.com or wherever books are sold.Perfect for classrooms, libraries, and parents looking for fun, educational reads.“This too shall pass. The toughest deadlines, the hardest edits—it all fades. What matters is doing something meaningful with your time. For me, that’s making kids smile.”📚 Featured Project:🔍 Inside the Episode:💬 Notable Quotes:👦 Why Kids (and Parents) Love His Books:📚 Available Now:📌 Closing Thought from Rusty: