Episode 9

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Published on:

9th Jun 2025

Frank Furino | The Colorful Life and Stories of a Media & Entertainment Veteran

In this captivating episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, join hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence as they sit down with Frank Furino, a media and entertainment veteran with an extraordinary history. From his early days in the bustling newsrooms of ABC to his adventures in Hollywood, Frank shares his remarkable journey, including his chance encounters with famous figures like Howard Cosell and Sammy Davis Jr. You’ll be enthralled by tales of his transition from broadcasting to writing for iconic television shows, including "Dynasty" and "Dallas." Frank recounts his experiences in the world of country music and his deep-rooted love for storytelling, culminating in his play about Marilyn Monroe. This episode is a rich tapestry of anecdotes that illustrate the vibrant life of a man who has lived many careers and continues to influence the arts today.

 

Takeaways:

• Frank Furino's journey began as a mailboy at ABC News.

• He witnessed the pivotal moment of JFK's assassination while working in the newsroom.

• Transitioning to California, he was mentored by influential figures in the media industry.

• Frank's career evolved into writing for popular television shows like "Dynasty" and "Dallas."

• He produced the first country music concert at Carnegie Hall featuring the Oak Ridge Boys.

• Frank created a play about Marilyn Monroe, showcasing his passion for storytelling.

• His rich experiences include connections with entertainment legends like Dick Clark and Rita Lakin.

• Frank emphasizes the importance of mentorship in shaping his career and opportunities.

 

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #FrankFurino #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #MarilynMonroe #HollywoodStories #ABCNews #TelevisionWriting #Dynasty #Dallas #CountryMusic #EntertainmentIndustry #Storytelling #LifeJourney #MediaVeteran #Podcast #PalmDesert

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About the Podcast

Big Conversations, Little Bar
Hosted by Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, get up close and personal with fascinating people who live in and visit the Coachella Valley and have made an impact on the region's economy, culture and global appeal as a leading tourism destination.
The series is now in its sixth season and has just launched its third year of production as it reaches the 100th episode mark in the first quarter of 2025! Many thanks to our outstanding listeners from throughout the Golden State, North America and around the world. And, a very special note of gratitude to our friends Skip Paige and Kate Spates for hosting us at Little Bar in Palm Desert, CA, and to Chairman Garry Kief, Digital Content Whiz Leanne McNeil and all the fine staff at the McCallum Theatre, without whose sponsorship this program would not be made possible to bring you every single week. Please support these enterprises as doing so helps support our ability to deliver hours of entertainment each month to our loyal followers.

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