
Chuck Shute Podcast
In depth interviews with musicians, comedians, authors, actors, and more! Guests on the show include David Duchovny, Billy Bob Thornton, Mark Normand, Dee Snider, Ann Wilson, Tony Horton, Don Dokken, Jack Carr and many more.
Latest episodes

May 23, 2025 • 1h 7min
Comedian Andrew Orolfo Talks Bombing, Coachella, Rage Baiting, Clip Farming & More!
Andrew Orolfo discusses his comedy career, including his game show with friends, his appearance on James Corden and on Joy Koy's Netflix special. He shares his writing process, which involves constant tweaking and interaction with his audience. Andrew reflects on the challenges of performing, such as dealing with hecklers and the pressures of maintaining a following through social media. He also talks about the financial aspects of comedy, including the benefits of corporate gigs and his experience with SiriusXM. Additionally, Andrew touches on his personal life, including his decision to stop smoking weed and his experiences with drugs at music festivals. 0:00:00 - Intro0:00:20 - Gameshow, Movies, Reboots & Celebrities 0:04:34 - Getting Older & Changing Generations 0:06:45 - Wearing Multiple Hats in Comedy & Social Media 0:09:01 - Secret Sets, James Corden, & Chopping Up Clips 0:11:30 - Crowd Work, Clip Farming, Authenticity & Curve Balls 0:17:23 - Hecklers, Bad Yelp Review & Texas 0:21:45 - Comedy Magic Club in Hermosa Beach & Jo Koy 0:26:54 - Streaming Income, Paid Views, SiriusXM & Writing Gigs 0:30:35 - Big Gigs, Opening, Corporate Gigs & Getting Fired 0:35:25 - Craziest Bombing in Florida 0:39:55 - Writing Comedy Process & Career Path 0:44:12 - Chill Vibe, Drugs, Cochella & Maximizing Fun 0:48:33 - Taquitos & Gas Station Mexican Food 0:50:00 - San Francisco, Crime & Santa Clara 0:56:10 - Old West, Bunny Ranch & Sex Workers 0:58:55 - Content Creators, Getting Clicks & Rage Baits 1:04:01 - New Special & Game Show "The Meter" 1:06:50 - Outro Andrew Orolfo Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/andrew_orolfo/Andrew Orolfo website:https://www.andreworolfo.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

May 21, 2025 • 1h 4min
Martin Popoff Discusses His New Guns 'N Roses Book, Grunge, Other Rockstars & More!
Chuck Shute and Martin Popoff discuss Popoff's book on Guns N' Roses, highlighting its unique photos and the collaboration with his editor, Dennis. Popoff has written 130 books, with 40% of his income from mail orders. They delve into the band's history, including the challenges of updating books and the impact of grunge on hair metal. Popoff emphasizes Axl Rose's dedication to creativity and the band's evolving sound. They also touch on the band's interactions with other musicians and the enduring influence of Guns N' Roses' music. Martin Popoff discussed his new book on Guns N' Roses, set to release by mid-June, with pre-orders available on Amazon and his website, where he signs and ships copies. He mentioned his prolific YouTube channel, "The Contrarians," and his audio-only podcast, "History and Five Songs with Martin Popoff," which has 308 episodes. Popoff also highlighted his involvement in other podcasts, including an AC/DC podcast with John Gaffney and appearances on Brian Slogale's "100 Most Important Songs" series. Chuck Shute concluded the conversation by thanking Popoff and mentioning the upcoming episode release.0:00:00 - Intro 0:00:20 - New GnR Book & Pics 0:02:05 - Writing Books & Updating Them 0:04:23 - Mailbox Money, Royalties & Best Books 0:06:54 - Guns 'N Roses At 40 0:08:34 - Early Guns 'N Roses, Name & Genre 0:16:55 - Shaking Up Rock, Hair Metal & Grunge 0:21:00 - Use Your Illusions 0:24:20 - Production & Sound of Appetite 0:28:25 - Possible New GnR Album & Izzy 0:30:10 - GnR, Motley Crue & Musical Connections 0:31:50 - Music Scene, Moving to L.A. & Evolution of Streaming 0:35:47 - New Bands, Cult Bands & Standing Out 0:42:28 - Axl Rose, Creativity & Time Lapses 0:45:25 - Tommy Stinson on Axl's Strengths & Weaknesses 0:47:03 - Interviewing Big Rockstars Like Axl & Izzy 0:55:50 - Fan of Hair Metal & Grunge & Evolution of Rock 1:02:03 - New Book, Pre-Ordering, Youtube & Podcast1:03:52 -Outro Martin Popoff website:https://martinpopoff.com/html/bookslistChuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

May 18, 2025 • 45min
Ryan Roxie Discusses his New Song, Podcasting, Alice Cooper & More!
Ryan Roxie discussed his move from Stockholm to Cape Town, highlighting the cultural and environmental differences. He addressed media sensationalism about South Africa's safety, emphasizing personal experiences. Ryan praised Alice Cooper's non-political approach to rock and roll, citing a 2018 Guardian interview. He shared insights on the music industry, including the challenges of promoting his solo work and the importance of hooks in songs. Ryan also mentioned his podcast, "In the Trenches," and its AI-driven special episode. He reflected on his career, including collaborations with Slash and Cheap Trick, and his admiration for comedians and their truth-telling roles.00:00 - Intro 00:20 - Move From Stockholm to Cape Town 03:23 - Alice Cooper, News & Comedians 05:00 - Metal Sludge, Metal Edge & Hooks 08:45 - Catchy Music & Standing Out 13:10 - Alice Cooper Interruption14:01 - New Roxie Song & Video & Roxie's Voice16:25 - Robin Zander & Liam Gallagher 18:30 - Learning From Alice & Work Ethic 21:45 - GnR, Slash, Cheap Trick, Oasis & More 24:12 - Bands Opening the Door to the Next Band 26:42 - Jackie From Canada and Favorite Song 28:30 - Meeting Famous People & Comedians 31:01 - Traveling & Touring & Seeing New Cities 32:30 - Alice Cooper Sightings 33:25 - In the Trenches Podcast, A.I. Video & Podcasts 36:55 - Having Guests on a Song & Algorithm 39:35 - Jordan Peterson & Eric Weinstein 40:39 - Collaborating & Connections 41:35 - Doing Podcasts 42:42 - Loving Music, New Single & Solo Shows 45:05 - Outro Ryan Roxie website:https://ryanroxie.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

May 16, 2025 • 31min
The Legendary Larry Wilmore (The Daily Show, The Bernie Mac Show, The Office) Drops in for a Fun Chat!
Larry Wilmore discusses his fascination with historical figures like Harry Houdini, the Marx Brothers, and the Beatles, attributing their success to the zeitgeist and cultural timing. He reflects on his own career, including his work on "The Daily Show" and his intentional efforts to create and produce shows like "The PJs" and "The Bernie Mac Show." Wilmore also touches on the challenges of maintaining relevance, the impact of social media, and the importance of evolving with the times. He mentions his current projects, including a podcast and a Hulu show, and his interest in magic, highlighting his diverse career and ongoing creative pursuits.00:00 - Intro00:20 - Creative Artists, Timing & Zeitgeist 08:50 - The Daily Show & Jon Stewart's Voice 12:28 - Taylor Swift, Beyonce, The Beatles & Kanye West 16:13 - Larry's Career Arc & Intentional Choices 23:23 - Making It Through the Lows & Disappointments 28:01 - Larry's Book 29:08 - Black in the Air Podcast & Reasonable Doubt 29:40 - Magic, Touring & Other Lanes 30:48 - Outro Larry Wilmore website:https://www.thelarrywilmore.com/Chuck Shute link tree: https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

May 16, 2025 • 37min
Stefan Adika, Bass Player with Dee Dee Ramone, Rockett Mafia & More!
Stefan Adika discussed his recent activities, including wood shedding on bass after a six-year hiatus and his involvement with the tribute band Rocket Mafia for charity. He praised his YouTube success, surpassing 20,000 subscribers and earning thousands. Adika shared his experiences with Ryan Roxie, including Ryan's absence from the show and his new single "Better Than You." They also reminisced about their past, including Adika's time with Electric Angels and his interactions with Christina Applegate. Adika promoted his upcoming gig with Rocket Mafia on May 16 in Hollywood for the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, supporting cancer awareness.00:00 - Intro00:20 - Playing Bass with Rockett Mafia 04:35 - Ryan Roxie Connection & Electric Angels 10:30 - Alice Cooper & Glam Nation 12:04 - Ryan Roxie Reschedule 13:50 - Rockett Mafia Free Concert 16:10 - Health Issues & Insurance 19:45 - Podcast Fans & Stefan's Show 24:16 - Podcast Length 25:40 - Promotions 26:37 - Musician Friends & Other Interviews 28:40 - More Ryan Roxie Stuff 30:40 - Alice Cooper Band 35:36 - Seeing Guns 'N Roses in 198739:10 - Disclaimer & Final Promotions 40:04 - Outro Adika's Youtube - Artists on Record:https://www.youtube.com/@artistsonrecordRockett Mafia:https://www.rockettmafia.com/Ryan Roxie site:https://ryanroxie.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!Please visit my website to get more information: https://chuckshute.com/ Support the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

May 10, 2025 • 33min
Comedian & Daily Show Writer Dina Hashem Talks New Special, Music, Comedy Influences & more!
Dina Hashem discusses her new comedy special "Dark Little Whispers" on Amazon Prime, produced by Sam Morrow. She details her journey learning to play drums through a Japanese arcade game, which inspired the special's intro music. Hashem shares her experiences with social anxiety, how comedy has helped her overcome it, and her admiration for fellow comedians like Norm Macdonald and Nathan Fielder. She also touches on the challenges of creating new material, the therapeutic aspects of comedy, and her mixed feelings about using drugs like weed and mushrooms. Hashem reflects on her past day jobs and how they contributed to her social anxiety.00:00 - Intro 00:20 - New Special & Music 01:20 - Japanese Drum Game 04:50 - Comedians & Musicians 06:23 - Visual Aesthetic of Special 07:03 - Sam Morril & Well Written Jokes 10:50 - Comedy Role Models & Influences 13:00 - Prank Call Bits 14:15 - Content, Writing Jokes & Crowd Work 18:25 - Roast Battles 21:02 - Insecurities, Being Real & Desensitization 26:13 - Weed & Mushrooms 30:15 - Day Jobs 32:45 - Outro Dina Hashem website:https://dinahashem.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

Apr 30, 2025 • 53min
Wednesday 13 Returns to the Show to Talk New Record, Rockstar Encounters, Success & more!
Wednesday 13 discussed his new album "No Apologies," which he wrote and produced alone, inspired by his early career. He shared stories about his life in Burbank, California, and encounters with wildlife. He emphasized the importance of natural songwriting and his influences from bands like Skid Row and Alice Cooper. Wednesday 13 also talked about his experiences touring with bands like Guns N' Roses and Metallica, and his journey from playing in Frankenstein Drag Queens to joining Murderdolls. He highlighted the impact of his music on fans and his plans for future tours and collaborations.00:00 - Intro 00:20 - Cats & Wildlife 03:50 - Writing Songs & New Record 09:18 - Satan Themes & Controversy 13:45 - Motley Crue Influence & Nikki Sixx 16:30 - Playing to Tracks Vs. Playing Live 18:01 - Standing Out & Package Tours 19:58 - Collaborations & Branching Out 22:15 - Secrets to Success & Motivation 24:43 - Dave Mustaine, Megadeth & Metallica 27:50 - Influences of Alice Cooper & Skid Row 30:50 - Friend Rayen & Alice Cooper Memory 32:45 - Memorable Moments w/ Metallica & more 35:30 - Continuing Success & Love of Music 36:35 - Time to Break Through & Focus & Continuation 40:45 - Craziest Bands To Party With, Music Books & Movie 45:16 - Heavy Metal Saving People 47:55 - Decapitation Song & Backstory 49:35 - Complicated Songs & New Record52:56 - Outro Wednesday 13 website:https://officialwednesday13.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

Apr 11, 2025 • 1h 25min
Author & Journalist Richie McGinniss Discusses His Book "Riot Diet" and the State of America
Richie McGinniss discussed his book "Riot Diet" and its sequel, which covers protests from Kenosha to January 6. He highlighted the shift in political paradigms, noting that while BLM protests were largely peaceful, recent protests against Tesla dealerships were more violent. McGinniss criticized the media's role in polarizing issues and emphasized the impact of social media algorithms on public perception. He also discussed the influence of special interests on politics, the rise of Trump, and the societal challenges faced by children from single-parent households, linking these to increased mental health issues and political unrest. The conversation between Richie McGinniss and Chuck Shute delves into the societal impacts of social media, the role of protests and media in shaping public perception, and the political dynamics of recent years. They discuss the influence of figures like Trump and Musk, the complexities of the BLM movement, and the challenges of bridging political divides. McGinniss shares insights from his book, highlighting the experiences of both left and right-wing individuals during protests. They also touch on the evolving nature of political parties and the importance of open-minded dialogue. The discussion concludes with hopes for a more unified and constructive approach to societal issues.0:00:00 - Intro0:00:21 - Riot Diet 1 & 2 0:01:03 - The Tesla Riots0:02:03 - Funding & Organizing Protests 0:03:12 - WTO Protests, Free Trade & Paradigm Shift 0:10:02 - Left & Right Switching Philosophies 0:13:05 - Counterculture & Silicon Valley 0:15:05 - Having Conversations & Political Participation 0:17:30 - Reinventing Platforms & Shrinking Middle Class 0:21:00 - Definition of Freedom & Extreme Right & Left 0:25:25 - White Supremacy, BLM & Race Relations 0:34:41 - Politicians Raising Money & Lobbies 0:37:30 - Motivation for Doctors, Healthcare & Covid 0:40:01 - Vaccines, Lockdowns & Perceptions0:41:30 - Red & Blue & Tribal Identity 0:43:02 - Media Bias, Hunter Biden Laptop & Trump0:48:33 - Extremes, Pejoratives, Algorithms & Media 0:51:15 - Kyle Rittenhouse is Not a Hero or White Supremacist 0:57:20 - Root Causes, Personal Happiness, & Social Media 1:07:03 - Protests, Media Narrative & Schmoozers 1:10:43 - Narrative of BLM Protests Vs. Reality 1:15:15 - American Presidents Good & Bad 1:17:50 - Discussion of Issues & Tough Times 1:24:22 - Outro Richie McGinniss website:https://richiemcginniss.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 48min
Actor Reed Diamond Returns to the Show to Discuss New Film "Drop", Fun Stories on Set & More!
Reed Diamond and Chuck Shute delve into the timeless appeal of Pixar movies, emphasizing the importance of a strong script. Reed shares his experiences working on "Drop," a thriller filmed in Ireland, highlighting the practical sets and collaborative environment. They also touch on the impact of tax incentives on film production, the evolution of live music experiences, and the importance of storytelling in acting, with anecdotes about working with notable actors and directors. Reed Diamond discusses his acting philosophy, emphasizing the importance of being in the moment and collaborating with fellow actors. He contrasts this with the competitive, cutthroat environment of "Homicide," where actors actively tried to undermine each other. Diamond admires strategic actors like Val Kilmer but prefers a more spontaneous, improvisational approach. He also reflects on the impact of social media and politics on society, advocating for authenticity, empathy, and local action. Diamond promotes his upcoming film "Drop," highlighting its intense, well-crafted narrative and the collaborative effort behind it.0:00:00 - Intro0:00:20 - Rankin/Bass, Claymation & Kids Movies 0:04:45 - Movies from 70s/80s, Anora & Test of Time 0:11:25 - New "Drop" Film, Script, Production, Casting & Location 0:22:10 - Cheaper to Film Outside of Los Angeles 0:25:22 - Statue of Liberty & New York Scene 0:30:45 - Music Scenes, Concerts & Punk Rock 0:38:28 - Working with Other Actors & Being Authentic 0:44:40 - Working on Homicide & Crazy Stories 0:51:03 - Smart Tricks, Being Difficult & Bad Behavior 0:55:40 - Val Kilmer & Cunning Strategy of Actors/Actresses 1:04:03 - Improvising Vs. Having a Plan & Visionary Directors 1:07:53 - Gene Hackman's Method 1:09:20 - The Substance & Hands On Directing Vs Natural 1:12:35 - Tarantino & Natural Dialogue vs. Micromanaging 1:15:05 - Shooting Better Call Saul Scene 1:19:12 - Actors Directing Actors 1:23:01 - Wisdom, Life Decisions & Emotion 1:25:50 - Leaping to Outrage, Authenticity & Social Media 1:30:17 - Politics, Arguing, Division & Common Values 1:35:00 - Fear & Outrage, Nation's Ideals & Making a Difference 1:38:15 - Corruption, Leading By Example & Not Preaching 1:40:45 - Goal is the Truth & Striving to Be Better 1:43:52 - Music, Film & Art Reflects Life 1:47:21 - Outro Reed Diamond instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thereeddiamond/?hl=enReed Diamond X:https://x.com/reeddiamond?lang=enChuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!

Apr 4, 2025 • 2h 27min
Tracii Guns Opens Up About L.A. Guns Past & Present, GnR, Skid Row and More!
Tracii Guns discussed his musical journey, including his time in LA Guns, Guns N' Roses, and various collaborations. Guns emphasized the importance of music in his life and his preference for older music. He praised tribute bands and shared insights on songwriting, noting the impact of his song "Let You Down" during the pandemic. Guns also reflected on his relationships, including his time with Axl Rose and the challenges of managing a band. He advised emerging artists to protect their vision and maintain open-mindedness. Guns also reflects on his experiences with anxiety, addiction, and the evolving music industry, stressing the importance of song structure and the impact of his work with various bands. He mentions Izzy Stradlin's reclusive nature and brilliant songwriting, noting Izzy's reluctance to seek unwanted attention. Tracii also talks about his upcoming album release, its availability in physical formats, and the unique cover art created through AI and hand painting.0:00:00 - Intro0:00:20 - Playing with Gilby Clarke0:02:18 - Old & New Music & Tribute Bands 0:06:30 - Embracing Your Influences 0:07:29 - New L.A. Guns Songs 0:10:49 - Writing Music 0:11:45 - Adam Hamilton: Drummer & Producer 0:13:37 - Touring as a Band & Member Roles 0:16:27 - Advice for Younger Artists 0:19:55 - Relationship with Singer Phil Lewis 0:20:55 - Vicious Cycle Album 0:24:46 - Deep Cuts & "Let You Down" 0:28:48 - Fan Reactions To Songs 0:30:20 - Mental Health, Anxiety & Trolls 0:33:33 - Brides of Destruction, John Corabi & Nikki Sixx0:37:05 - Attitude Towards People 0:40:30 - Peace with Old Bands & Dave Mustaine 0:43:27 - Psychology, Family, Girlfriends & Intense Relationships 0:49:33 - Run In with Guns 'N Roses Members 0:52:05 - Band Chemistry, Skid Row & Sebastian Bach 1:00:15 - Joe Leste of Bang Tango & Other Singers 1:02:05 - People on the Internet & Other Cultures 1:05:37 - People From Different Backgrounds & Commonality 1:08:25 - Michael Sweet & Religion & Acceptance of Differences 1:12:05 - Believing Lies, Immigration & Travel Issues 1:18:25 - Podcasts, Headlines, Context & Value of Information 1:21:35 - James Hetfield, Metallica & Personal Issues 1:24:45 - Duff McKagan, Sobriety, Drugs & Being Healthy 1:32:10 - Mystique, Followers, Clarity & Transparency 1:33:35 - Food Trucks, Budget Cuts & Living Wages 1:40:30 - Healthcare System & Caring for People 1:43:03 - Ozempic, Diet & Pharmaceuticals 1:54:10 - Mental Health, Anxiety & Drugs 1:58:09 - Cigarettes & Addiction 2:03:45 - Bravado & 80s Music Scene 2:06:57 - Contraband Supergroup & Richard Black 2:10:37 - Nikki Sixx & Egos 2:12:40 - GnR, Eazy E, NWA, Hip Hop & AC/DC 2:15:05 - Ballads & Music Business 2:18:08 - L.A. Guns Rarities & Unreleased Songs 2:19:30 - Unreleased GnR Music & Izzy Stradlin 2:25:45 - New Record 2:27:00 - Outro LA Guns website:http://www.lagunsmusic.com/Chuck Shute link tree:https://linktr.ee/chuck_shuteSupport the showThanks for Listening & Shute for the Moon!