Episode 516 - And Now We Drink Episode 469: With James Barthole

On this episode of And Now We Drink, Matt Slayer sits down with industry veteran, actor, producer, radio host, and horror filmmaker James Bartholet for a wild, tangent-filled conversation that moves from old-school talk radio to modern  industry realities, award-show culture, and the glory of grindhouse cinema.

James reflects on his decades in broadcasting, what he learned from the talk radio era, and why live caller interaction can be both a ratings boost and a minefield. He also dives into his current slate of projects, including Scissors Chapter Two, Murder Motel, horror convention appearances, and his long-running show Inside the Industry with James Bartholet. Along the way, he shares behind-the-scenes stories from low-budget horror sets, including a chocolate syrup blood gag that went very wrong

Matt and James get candid about the changing economics of  entertainment, from VHS box covers and fan conventions to tube sites, OF, performer expectations, parasocial relationships, and whether performers could ever realistically unionize. They also talk about the importance of respecting performers at conventions and supporting the work you enjoy.

The conversation swerves into Hollywood memories, including Joan Rivers, Keanu Reeves, River Phoenix, Britney Murphy, the Viper Room, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame debates, disappearing Los Angeles landmarks, Red Lobster biscuits, dating dealbreakers, and why being present for real conversation still matters. It’s funny, nostalgic, blunt, and unmistakably And Now We Drink.

 

 

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