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  • Yeremi Hykel TALKS WINNING ‘The Challenge 41’ | JTWJE Podcast Special #20

    Yeremi Hykel TALKS WINNING ‘The Challenge 41’ | JTWJE Podcast Special #20
    2025/12/11
    It is a thrill to welcome back newly crowned Challenge champion Yeremi Hykel for a special Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast episode.

    A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yeremi first appeared on Reality TV on The Amazing Race 35, which aired in 2023. He partnered with his brother, Navy veteran Liam, who had been estranged for years. The first leg saw the duo start racing from the Hollywood sign and finish in Thailand, where they placed eighth out of 13. The duo was nearly eliminated in Vietnam, but fortunately, it was a non-elimination leg. Sadly, Yeremi and Liam were sent home after the Race took them to India. Throughout the competition, Yeremi completed two roadblocks, while his brother completed three challenges.

    Two years later, Yeremi headed to The Challenge to compete on the long-running Reality TV competition’s forty-first season, Vets vs. New Threats. Yeremi made a name for himself when he completed the opening challenge – climbing the mountain to get to the Challenge House. Throughout the season, Yeremi showcased his leadership abilities and became one of the New Threats’ strongest leaders in the house. He won both the “Cyclone” daily challenge with fellow New Threat Sydney Segal and the “Running Man” daily challenge with partner Aviv Bruno. He also competed in the “Pull It Together” elimination challenge against two-time Challenge champion Jonna Mannion and New Threat Gabe Wai and won. When Yeremi is not competing, he is a model signed with the Block Agency, a fierce competitor in various fitness competitions, and a world traveler.

    In part two of our conversation, Yeremi Hykel discussed the second half of the game, which featured a shocking move: he chose to partner with Olivia Kaiser over Aviv, winning The Challenge 41: Vets vs. New Threats, and which show icons he wants to face off in a future season.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    42 分
  • Michael Mackie RETURNS + TALKS ‘You Have 4 Minutes’ | JTWJE EP 399

    Michael Mackie RETURNS + TALKS ‘You Have 4 Minutes’ | JTWJE EP 399
    2025/12/08
    For the final regular podcast of 2025, I am thrilled to welcome back my friend, eight-time Emmy-winning media personality Michael Mackie, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

    Michael Mackie is a proud Midwesterner. Growing up, he always knew he wanted to be in TV. Or on TV. Or watching TV. (He’s not picky.) “I even got my degree in broadcasting from the University of Iowa to prove to the world I was not only educated but well-versed in sitcoms, game shows, and Oprah,” he says. “Also, I got minors in French and acting as well. Someday, that will enable me to write, produce, direct, and star in a straight-to-video project in Quebec.”

    Not only is Michael an Aries with a Pisces rising, but he’s also an eight-time Emmy award winner. He’s worked and freelanced for various local television affiliates in Des Moines, Orlando, and Kansas City, and was the co-host of a local daily entertainment show, KC Live. A prolific travel writer by trade, Michael recently joined the prestigious Society of American Travel Writers. “My parents never could comprehend how I earned my keep stringing words together for the universe to appreciate,” he says. “Frankly, that makes three of us. But I feel like it’s what I was put on this earth to do. I was born to tell people’s stories. Whether you read it—welp, that’s up to you.”

    Recently, Michael Mackie released his new book, You Have 4 Minutes: My Life as an Unlikely Celebrity Interviewer. The book, which includes an introduction by Cindy Wilson of the B-52’s, explains why actress Lindsay Wagner (The Bionic Woman) was one of his favorite interview subjects, and why Andrew Dice Clay was his worst interview. You Have 4 Minutes explores the art of interviewing, dishes a bit of gossip about the stars, and dives deep into his navigation throughout his life’s biggest challenges – suffering a major stroke at age 40, the beast that is alcoholism, and a year without all refined sugar.

    On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Michael Mackie spoke about his writing process, some of his most memorable entries, including telling Marie Osmond, “Perky! Boobies Up,” and Jennifer Holliday’s presence on the defunct Kansas City Live set, and having Cindy Wilson write the book’s introduction.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    22 分
  • TOBY GAD TALKS Iconic Songs, Swearing at Madonna + ‘Piano Diaries Christmas’ | JTWJE Holiday Special 2025

    TOBY GAD TALKS Iconic Songs, Swearing at Madonna + ‘Piano Diaries Christmas’ | JTWJE Holiday Special 2025
    2025/12/01
    It is an honor and a privilege to welcome music producer and songwriter Toby Gad to the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast Holiday Special!

    Toby began his career in the late 1980s, when he and his brother Jens had three of their songs featured on controversial music duo Milli Vanilli’s European debut and multi-platinum album, All or Nothing. Because of the songs’ success, Milli Vanilli’s producer Frank Farian produced the brothers’ 1990 debut album, NRG. That same year, Toby met Jacqueline Nemorin, and a 10-year collaboration began with 1992’s Creole Dance and continued with 1995’s Mission of Love and the title song for Neverending Story III.

    Following success in Germany, Toby left for the United States. He opened Strawberrybee studio in Midtown Manhattan and co-wrote “Unspoken” with Madeline Stone and O. Hatch for Christian platinum artist Jaci Velasquez. The song stayed on the Christian Billboard Top 20 Singles chart for half a year. In 2003, Toby produced and co-wrote “A Toast to Men” for Willa Ford, and two years later, developed, produced, and co-wrote Kaci Brown’s Interscope Records debut, Instigator. He also produced and co-wrote songs for Ricky Martin and the Veronicas.

    In 2008, his career shifted into high gear after Fergie released a song they co-wrote, “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” The song went 4x platinum and peaked at the number one position on the US Billboard Hot 100. He also co-wrote and co-produced Beyoncé’s “If I Were A Boy,” which went 2x platinum and peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100. He continued to write massive hits for Calum Scott (“No Matter What”), Demi Lovato (“Skyscraper”), Jessie J (“Who You Are”), Josh Groban (“River”), Leona Lewis (“Fire Under My Feet’), and Madonna (“Bitch, I’m Madonna” and “Living for Love”). One of his massive hits was John Legend’s “All of Me,” which earned RIAA’s 13x Diamond (Highest Certified RIAA Single in History) and won Grammy, Soul Train, and NAACP Awards.

    Recently, Toby Gad released his first holiday studio album, Piano Diaries Christmas. The album features original songs co-written with an all-star group of recording artists. Anthony Gargiula, Gavin James, Huntley, Joelle James, Jordin Sparks, Loren Allred, Marisha Wallace, Sam Ryder, and Victoria Justice are some of the talented vocalists who are featured on the record. When he is not in the recording studio, Toby is also the host of the Songs You Know Podcast. In each episode, Toby and his guests uncover the tales, creative processes, and moments of magic that brought iconic songs you know and love to life. Previous guests include Billy Steinberg, Jessie J, Josh Groban, Justin Tranter, Lindy Robbins, Loren Allred, and Marisha Wallace.

    On the 2025 holiday special, Toby Gad talked about his songwriting sessions with Beyonce and Demi Lovato, writing “All of Me” with John Legend, the moment he swore at the Queen of Pop, and previewed Piano Diaries Christmas.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    43 分
  • D’Andre McKenzie TALKS ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ + The Way Network | JTWJE Special #19

    D’Andre McKenzie TALKS ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ + The Way Network | JTWJE Special #19
    2025/11/24
    Welcome to a special edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

    Today, we welcome D’Andre McKenzie to the podcast! A Lee’s Summit, Missouri native, D’Andre McKenzie began his career as a Defensive Back (jersey number 29) for the University of Missouri Tigers football team. After graduating with a double bachelor’s degree in mass communication + Media Studies and English, D’Andre worked as an actor in the Kansas City metropolitan area before relocating to New York City.

    In 2023, D’Andre made his Reality TV debut on Netflix’s Squid Game: The Challenge’s first season. He wore the 288 jersey in hopes of beating out 455 other players to win the show’s prize of $4.56 million, the largest prize in TV competition history. While he survived in the inaugural game of “Red Light, Green Light,” he made it into the dormitory. Sadly, his luck ran out when his group failed to reach a unanimous consensus during the Dalgona challenge.

    Also in 2023, D’Andre McKenzie started the Way Network and The D’Andre Way. He covered major events such as the NFL Draft, the WNBA Draft, and the NBA Playoffs. His presence enhanced fan experiences at games and events by inserting them into the conversation surrounding the experience. He created channels on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and built a combined total of 20,000 followers and over 5 million engagements.

    On this special edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, D’Andre McKenzie shared his experience on Squid Game: The Challenge’s first season, going viral on social media, and potentially competing on other Reality TV shows.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    42 分
  • Bryan James TALKS ‘Youthful Daze,’ ‘GH’ & Alex Forrest | JTWJE Ep #398

    Bryan James TALKS ‘Youthful Daze,’ ‘GH’ & Alex Forrest | JTWJE Ep #398
    2025/11/20
    It is a pleasure to welcome actor Bryan James to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

    A California native, Bryan James grew up all over the state, living everywhere from San Francisco to San Diego. James did a lot of theatre growing up in different areas of the state. When he moved to Hollywood, he joined the Ivana Chubbuck Studio. Bryan took his first step in the professional acting world when he starred in the Discovery Health Channel’s Mystery ER. From 2012 to 2016, he created, produced, and starred in the popular web series Youthful Daze, in which he portrayed Drew Castle and his split personality, Joshua. The Calabasas, California-set series also starred Chrishelle Stause, Rick Hearst, Jen Lilley, Eden Riegel, and Mike Manning. He also hosted TMI Hollywood for five episodes, starred as Officer Mark Jenkins in Bloodbath, and guest-starred on General Hospital and AppleTV+’s Palm Royale.

    On November 21, Bryan will star in the psychological thriller Reckless. The film is a bold, razor-sharp reimaging of the cult classic Fatal Attraction. The film dives deep into obsession, betrayal, and the dangerous unraveling of desire against the glossy backdrop of California. In the movie, Bryan James portrays Alex Forrest, a magnetic television star whose affair with Dan Gallagher (four-time Emmy-nominee Max Ehrich), spirals into a chilling game of cat and mouse. When passion turns into fixation, Alex’s charm transfigures into manipulation and violence, which threatens Dan’s marriage with Beth (Rachel Fox), career, and sanity in a modern cautionary tale that explores how intimacy, fame, and digital exposure collide.

    On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Bryan James reminisced about his time on Youthful Daze, the lessons he learned from being on the sets of General Hospital and Palm Royale. He also previewed his take on one of cinema’s greatest villains.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    27 分
  • Jennifer Harper TALKS ‘Soul Alive’ & Songwriting | JTWJE Podcast 397

    Jennifer Harper TALKS ‘Soul Alive’ & Songwriting | JTWJE Podcast 397
    2025/11/17
    It is a pleasure to welcome singer-songwriter Jennifer Harper as a guest on the latest edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

    Raised in a musical family in Washington, D.C., Jennifer was drawn to the piano from a young age. Her early influences included the sounds of Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, and Joni Mitchell, which she taught herself to play by ear. This early passion for music set the stage for a lifelong journey of creative expression and healing. Jennifer’s artistry is both contemplative and assured, a blend of her classical training and deep connection to the healing power of music. Her album, Soul Alive, reflects this duality, offering a soothing, mantra-like sound that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

    Created with the guidance of NY producer Matt Anthony, the album captures Jennifer’s personal transformation during the pandemic and channels themes of hope, healing, and positivity. Over the years, Jennifer’s work has gained recognition in notable outlets such as No Depression, BuzzFeed, and Songwriting Magazine. Her performances have graced legendary venues across the U.S., from Rockwood Music Hall and The Cutting Room in New York to The Mint in Los Angeles. Icon Roquel “Billy” Davis has mentored her, collaborated with and performed alongside world-renowned musicians, and appeared on large stages at March for Our Lives rallies, further solidifying her influence in the music world. But Jennifer’s journey isn’t confined to music alone.

    After discovering Human Design and the Gene Keys, she spent two years studying them intensively. Now, she blends her musical talents with spiritual guidance to support women worldwide in reaching their full potential. Through her Soul Blueprint Activations and Sacred Frequency Recalibrations, Jennifer offers transformative experiences that merge frequency, sound, and energy work. Her Sacred Frequency Recalibrations are designed to amplify clarity, ground energy at the cellular level, activate DNA, clear ancestral blocks, and magnetize true potential.

    A proud mother of three grown children, Jennifer finds joy in nature, healthy living, and inspiring others. As she continues to build momentum for Soul Alive, Jennifer remains committed to her mission of healing and empowerment through her music and spiritual work.

    On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jennifer Harper revealed her musical influences, Soul Alive, and the stories behind her most-streamed Spotify songs.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    44 分
  • Yeremi Hykel TALKS Marines Journey & ‘The Challenge 41’ | JTWJE Podcast #396

    Yeremi Hykel TALKS Marines Journey & ‘The Challenge 41’ | JTWJE Podcast #396
    2025/11/10
    Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar salutes all the veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. Thank you for your service and sacrifices.

    It is a pleasure to welcome Yeremi Hykel to the podcast! A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yeremi first appeared on Reality TV on The Amazing Race 35, which aired in 2023. He partnered with his brother, Navy veteran Liam, who had been estranged for years. The first leg saw the duo start racing from the Hollywood sign and finish in Thailand, where they placed eighth out of 13. The duo was nearly eliminated in Vietnam, but fortunately, it was a non-elimination leg. Sadly, Yeremi and Liam were sent home after the Race took them to India. Throughout the competition, Yeremi completed two roadblocks, while his brother completed three challenges.

    Two years later, Yeremi headed to The Challenge to compete on the long-running Reality TV competition’s forty-first season, Vets vs. New Threats. Yeremi made a name for himself when he completed the opening challenge – climbing the mountain to get to the Challenge House. Throughout the season, Yeremi showcased his leadership abilities and became one of the New Threats’ strongest leaders in the house. He won both the “Cyclone” daily challenge with fellow New Threat Sydney Segal and the “Running Man” daily challenge with partner Aviv Bruno. He also competed in the “Pull It Together” elimination challenge against two-time Challenge champion Jonna Mannion and New Threat Gabe Wai, and won. When Yeremi is not competing, he is a model signed with the Block Agency, a fierce competitor in various fitness competitions, and a world traveler.

    On this Veterans’ Day edition of the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Yeremi Hykel shared his U.S. Marine Corps journey, why he and Liam were constantly near the bottom of the pack on The Amazing Race, and took us behind the moves during the first weeks of The Challenge 41: Vets vs. New Threats.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    56 分
  • Becky Wilson CELEBRATES Jake’s Take’s SIXTH ANNIVERSARY | Episode #395

    Becky Wilson CELEBRATES Jake’s Take’s SIXTH ANNIVERSARY | Episode #395
    2025/11/06
    Six years ago, I launched a new venue, The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

    The podcast has welcomed guests across the entertainment and lifestyle industries. The guests have ranged from Emmy-winning journalists such as Anne Trujillo, Elex Michaelson, and Michael Mackie, and Emmy-winning actor Mike Manning, to Tony-winning producer Evan McGill and Reality TV legends such as Beth Stolarczyk, Derrick Kosinski, Ethan Zohn, Jon Brennan, Mark Long, Rachel Reilly, Rob Cesternino, and Syrus Yarbrough. I am incredibly grateful to all the publicists and talent management teams who trusted me with their clients.

    I am grateful for the friendships that I built along the way with my podcasting colleagues and guests. They include my friends over at AGT Time Pod, Brent Wolgamott (who was my first guest), Challenge Historian’s Jacob, Challenge Mania’s Derrick and Scott Yager, Drew Angelman, Josh Skinner, Matt Cohen, Mike Lewis, Paige of Most Likely & TikTok, Tony Berado, and Wes of Thinking Critical.

    I want to thank my dear friends and family who supported my podcasting journey, especially my mom, Gloria, my dad, Matthew, my brother, Aaron, my sister-in-law, Whitney, my nephew, Nash, my nieces, Emory and Kennedy, and my doggy nephew, Maxwell. Finally—and most importantly—I want to thank you—the listeners from over 80 countries—for taking time out of your schedules to watch and listen to my content! I am grateful for your continuous support.

    For my sixth anniversary episode, I am delighted to welcome my longtime friend, Becky Wilson! Becky runs WDS Marketing and Public Relations. WDS is a boutique agency with a unique and proven niche. Their focus is on helping savvy entrepreneurs and clever business owners tell their stories. Results included increased awareness, enhanced credibility, and new relationships in the business community. Becky leverages media, accolades, events, and other prime opportunities to elevate client brands and help them become known in the most positive, dynamic, and delightful ways. WDS received honors from the Kansas City Business Marketing Association’s Fountain Awards program and the Kansas City Public Relations Society’s Prism Awards. Becky Wilson has been honored twice by the U.S. Small Business Administration as a regional “Women Business Champion.”

    She is the co-founder of the Kansas City Council of Women Business Owners (KC-CWBO), which was designated as one of the most outstanding women’s business organizations in the United States by the Stevie Awards for Women in Business. WDS offers pro bono and discounted services to select nonprofit and business organizations each year. We have recently assisted the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center, the Center for Spirit at Work, and the KC-CWBO. They also volunteer for committee work and currently serve on the membership committee of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City.

    On the latest edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Becky Wilson shared WDS Marketing and Public Relations’ origin story. She also talked about her passion for America’s Got Talent (AGT).

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
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    33 分