Recorded at the famed corner booth of Skip Paige’s Little Bar in Palm Desert, this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar hosted by Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, follows a remarkable journey from church greeter to reality-TV standout. Guest Gary Levingston shares how a chance encounter at Southwest Church led to casting for the senior-edition dating franchise, the sequestered Malibu mansion experience, and the unexpected brotherhood that formed among contestants on The Golden Bachelor, and subsequently on Bachelor In Paradise. Levingston opens up about the stress of rose ceremonies (and expert-level packing), navigating sudden notoriety—including fan encounters at his doorstep—and keeping perspective thanks to lessons from his godmother, Tina Turner. Beyond TV, he’s channeling his platform into purpose: mental-health advocacy as a senior advisor with Talkspace, a lighthearted fashion partnership with Tommy Bahama, and service to kids in the Coachella Valley. He also spotlights his documentary on his uncle, 1950s singer-songwriter Jesse Belvin, and dreams of a feature film—maybe with Bruno Mars in the lead. Heart, humor, faith, and community all show up big in this conversation.

Takeaways:

• A casting director discovered him while he was greeting at church.
• Contestants were sequestered near the Malibu mansion—no phones, lots of bonding.
• The “golden” cast rooted for one another over rivalry.
• Rose ceremonies were nerve-racking—bags packed every time, just in case.
• Sudden fame felt surreal (press pings, fan rose at his door).
• Godmother Tina Turner taught privacy, poise, and inner strength.
• Now a Talkspace senior advisor, advocating mental health for older adults.
• Produces a Jesse Belvin documentary; hopes for a Bruno Mars-led feature.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #GaryLevingston #GoldenBachelorette #BachelorInParadise #TinaTurner #MentalHealth #Talkspace #TommyBahama #JesseBelvin #BrunoMars #MalibuMansion #ChurchToCasting #PalmDesert #CommunityImpact

This episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence spotlights a dynamic leader shaping the desert’s classical scene. As artistic director for Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic, our guest Lee Mills explains how a tiny team brings the world’s great orchestras to the McCallum Theatre within a narrow January to April window—often booking seasons as far out as 2028. Expect a blockbuster lineup: Chicago Symphony; a Los Angeles Philharmonic visit during a milestone leadership transition; Academy of St Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell; a top Mexico City orchestra with Carlos Miguel Prieto and Pacho Flores fresh off a 2023 Latin Grammy; plus San Diego and Dallas Symphonies. We trace Mills’ path from Belgrade, Montana to podiums in Brazil, Seattle, and the Carolinas, and how an MBA sharpened his audience-first programming. He rejects old-school “dictator” conducting in favor of joyful collaboration—and shares a thrilling vision to fuse symphonic power with club production. Pro tip: the season’s nearly sold out—join the waitlist.

Takeaways:

• Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic presents world-class orchestras at McCallum Theatre.
• Touring windows are tight (Jan–Apr), and dates are juggled years in advance.
• Upcoming highlights include Chicago Symphony, LA Phil, Academy of St Martin with Joshua Bell, San Diego & Dallas Symphonies, and a Mexico City orchestra with Carlos Miguel Prieto and Pacho Flores.
• The organization is lean (two going on three staff) and partners closely with McCallum’s crew.
• Career arc: Montana roots → college conducting epiphany → Brazil, Seattle → Greenville music directorship.
• Leadership style favors collaboration, fun, and audience engagement—no “tyrant conductor” vibes.
• Bold vision: bring orchestras into club environments with lights, acrobatics, and symphonic hits.
• Season is almost sold out; waitlists routinely move 50–100 returned tickets per concert.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #LeeMills #PSPhil #PalmSpringsFriendsOfPhilharmonic #McCallumTheatre #ChicagoSymphony #LAPhil #GustavoDudamel #JoshuaBell #PachoFlores #CarlosMiguelPrieto #GreenvilleSymphony #ClassicalMusic #CoachellaValley

From New York steakhouse soirées to Coachella Valley showstoppers, event planner Lola Kent brings a decade-plus of creative fire to the corner booth on this week’s episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence. She shares how a chance ceremony paired her with officiant Randy, sparking 60+ weddings built on listening, storytelling, and short-but-soulful vows. Lola recalls transforming airplane hangars at the Palm Springs Air Museum into “Norm’s Beach,” complete with surprise aircraft arrivals and star musicians, and a tear-jerking Bighorn ceremony where love triumphed over stage-four cancer. We get real about budgets vs. vision, indoor-outdoor contingency planning, micro-weddings born from the pandemic, and why great planners protect couples from venue rules, vendor chaos, and desert winds. Plus: the NYPD vs. FDNY cookoff, a Wicked-themed pop-up speakeasy, and the secret to guest-first hospitality (sometimes it’s Gentleman Jack). If you love weddings, parties, or just world-class logistics that feel like magic, this podcast is your blueprint.

We regret that due to technical issues in the recording of this episode that there is not a video podcast available.

Takeaways:

• The best ceremonies start with deep listening and private interviews.
• Short, meaningful vows keep guests engaged and couples centered.
• Great planners match clients to venues that fit rules and vibe.
• Always build indoor-outdoor weather backups in the desert.
• Clear vendor coordination is mission-critical to event flow.
• Budgets must guide creative choices—vision scales with resources.
• Micro-weddings proved intimacy can be as powerful as spectacle.
• Story-driven details turn spaces (even hangars) into immersive worlds.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #LolaKent #EventPlanning #WeddingPlanner #DesertWeddings #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #AirMuseum #VowRenewal #MicroWeddings #LuxuryEvents #WeddingOfficiant #Bighorn #PopUpSpeakeasy

In this captivating episode, local author and playwright David Church takes listeners on a fascinating journey through history, imagination, and creativity. Best known for his Edison Trilogy of novels, Church reveals how Thomas Edison’s little-known experiments with a “spirit box” sparked his fictional adventures into the supernatural and beyond. He shares with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence on Big Conversations, Little Bar the meticulous research that grounded his novels in historical truth while blending in fantastical elements featuring Edison, Groucho Marx, George Gershwin, and even Noel Coward as unexpected allies. From Edison’s personal tragedies that inspired breakthroughs, to the curious intersection of science and spirituality, Church provides a fresh look at one of America’s greatest inventors. Beyond his trilogy, he discusses his playwriting career, Hollywood screenwriting, and his newest project exploring religion’s impact on human experience. With wit, insight, and vivid storytelling, this episode shines a light on the imagination it takes to turn overlooked history into unforgettable adventures.

Takeaways:

• David Church’s Edison Trilogy blends meticulous research with imaginative fantasy.
• Edison’s rumored invention of a “spirit box” inspired the novels.
• Personal tragedy, including the death of Edison’s nephew, influenced his inventions.
• The trilogy features real figures like George Gershwin, Groucho Marx, and Noel Coward.
• Noel Coward’s secret role as a British spy becomes part of the narrative.
• Church draws inspiration from cinema, especially John Williams’ musical scores.
• His next creative project is a play exploring the power and pitfalls of religion.
• The conversation highlights Coachella Valley’s vibrant artistic community and hidden talent.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #DavidChurch #ThomasEdison #SpiritBox #HistoricalFiction #NoelCoward #GeorgeGershwin #GrouchoMarx #CreativeWriting #Playwriting #Screenwriting #CoachellaValleyArts #PalmDesert

In this powerful episode, the hosts welcome Danny Labin, CEO of the Jewish Federation of the Desert, for a conversation spanning his global experiences and local commitments. From producing Sesame Street in over 25 countries to navigating life in Lithuania and leading major philanthropic efforts in Israel, Labin’s journey reflects a life dedicated to education, cultural understanding, and community service. He shares gripping first-hand accounts of being in Israel during missile attacks, the complex realities of humanitarian work in times of crisis, and the Federation’s mission to support both Jewish and non-Jewish communities across the Coachella Valley and beyond. Listeners will hear how empathy, resilience, and connection fuel Labin’s vision for fostering meaningful engagement and building inclusive community experiences. With stories that weave together humor, history, and heartfelt purpose, this episode offers inspiration and insight into the work of creating a better world for all.

Takeaways:

· Danny Labin’s diverse career includes producing Sesame Street in over 25 countries.

· He lived in Lithuania for two years, working on Jewish community initiatives.

· Firsthand experiences in Israel during missile attacks shaped his leadership perspective.

· The Jewish Federation of the Desert aids both Jewish and non-Jewish communities locally.

· More than 90% of Jewish Family Service recipients are not Jewish.

· Labin emphasizes Tikun Olam—repairing the world—as a guiding principle.

· His vision includes expanded programs, community events, and educational travel to Israel.

· Leadership during crises requires balancing on-the-ground action with serving local community needs.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #DannyLabin #JewishFederationoftheDesert #SesameStreet #Lithuania #HumanitarianAid #TikunOlam #CommunityLeadership #IsraelSupport #Philanthropy #CoachellaValley #GlobalImpact #EducationThroughMedia

In this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, Yvonne Bell, the newly appointed CEO of the McCallum Theatre, shares her insights on leading the iconic desert venue. Discussing her transition from Development to CEO, Bell reveals plans for an expanded season and new programming aimed at engaging a broader audience. She highlights upcoming Broadway shows, dance performances, and the exciting integration of jazz and cabaret series. Bell also reflects on her unique career journey and the challenges and rewards of managing a theater. A must-listen for arts lovers and Coachella Valley residents and visitors eager to learn about the future of this cultural hub.

Takeaways:

· Yvonne Bell discusses her transition from development to CEO at McCallum Theatre.

· McCallum Theatre plans to expand its season, running from September to June.

· Seven to eight Broadway shows are slated for the 2026-2027 season.

· The McCallum aims to reach a more inclusive audience and serve the entire Coachella Valley.

· Yvonne highlights the importance of fostering collaboration with local and national arts organizations.

· New programming includes jazz, cabaret performances, and visual effects integration for younger audiences.

· The Muses’ revitalization has significantly increased fundraising, raising nearly $800K last year.

· Bell emphasizes the importance of donor relationships and creative partnerships for the theater’s success.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #YvonneBell #BroadwayShows #PerformingArts #LiveTheater #PalmSprings #ArtsCommunity #DancePerformances #CoachellaValley #JazzSeries #CabaretSeries #VisualEffects #TheaterManagement #ArtsLeadership

In this lively episode, actor Steven Ciceron joins Patrick Evans and Randy Florence at Skip Paige’s Little Bar to share his journey from clinical psychologist to working actor. With over 50% audition success and roles across film, television, and theater, Ciceron discusses the discipline and humility that fuel his craft. He dives into his passion for horror, balancing dark characters with a naturally affable personality, and how his psychology background enhances his performances. The conversation spans from his early theater days in New York to international shoots in Berlin and Stockholm, casting insights, and the occasional awkward moment on set. The trio also touches on industry myths, method acting, nudity on screen, and the ongoing hustle behind a true working actor’s career. From laugh-out-loud moments to genuine reflections, it’s a candid look at a multifaceted performer who embraces every challenge.

Takeaways:

• Steven Ciceron transitioned from psychology to acting, blending both disciplines.
• He has worked internationally and across genres, with a preference for horror.
• His background helps him develop nuanced, emotionally rich characters.
• Despite success, he stays grounded, continuing acting classes regularly.
• Ciceron sees casting and directing as growth areas but prioritizes acting.
• He believes method acting works best when combined with psychology.
• Independent films often provide him lead roles, while major productions offer cameos.
• He’s candid about the realities of auditions, agents, and balancing personal life.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem #BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem

In this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, Patrick Evans and Randy Florence welcome acclaimed photographer, author, artist, and actress Mary Ann Halpin for a heartfelt and often hilarious chat. From her beginnings in Chicago to her transformative work behind the camera in Los Angeles, Mary Ann shares how life’s twists—like infertility—led to her groundbreaking photo books, including Pregnant Goddesshood and the Fearless Women series. The trio dives into her viral Super Bowl commercial appearance, her improv roots, and her marriage to piano man Joe Croyle. Along the way, Mary Ann opens up about personal reinvention, creative burnout, and the healing power of joy and photography. With vivid stories about Joni Mitchell and Erin Brockovich, and reflections on aging, identity, and art, this episode is an inspiring testament to fearless living—messy moments and all.

Takeaways:

• Mary Ann Halpin’s Super Bowl commercial role was a full-circle moment from her early acting days.
• Her photo book Pregnant Goddesshood was born from her personal experience with infertility.
• She has photographed and befriended legends like Joni Mitchell and Erin Brockovich.
• Mary Ann emphasizes the importance of embracing failure as part of creativity.
• She uses her background in acting to draw authenticity from her photography subjects.
• Her Fearless Women books became the basis of a nonprofit and national tour.
• Halpin candidly discusses anxiety, burnout, and the path to mental well-being.
• Humor, self-care, and artistic expression fuel her resilience and ongoing projects.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem #MaryAnnHalpin #FearlessWomen #PhotographyLife #ActressTurnedPhotographer #SuperBowlCommercialStar #CreativeReinvention #EmpoweredAging #PalmDesertArts #ImprovCommunity