Mike Safo

Death, Taxes, and Mick Conlan coming on the Mike Safo podcast during St. Patrick's Day Weekend. The pride of Belfast brings along 3 time Olympian Paddy Barnes as we talk about the loyalty of the Irish fans, what fighting in the Big Apple means to them and why both fighters choose their fights for this weekend. I bring former professional boxer Will "Power" Rosinsky to help the boxing chatter. Mick is brutally honest explaining the influence his brother Jamie has on his fighting career, his iconic entrance with Conor McGregor, and why he won't stop having children. We have some fun and hear what the fighters’ first cheat meal is after their fights, their disappointment in the gifts I brought, and what makes Paddy the ultimate Twitter troll. Mick announces August 3rd as the date for the historic boxing event in Belfast later this year. We have a blast figuring out who his opponent will be (we play the guessing game). From the difficulties of making weight, to juggling all the media responsibilities. These Irish

*Repost from 2017* On this episode I'm joined by an absolute NYC icon. One of the greatest high school basketball players of all time, NBA all star, number 2 overall pick in the 1991 NBA draft... the great Kenny Anderson.   Kenny stopped by to talk about his dramatic new documentary Mr. Chibbs, tells a bunch of tremendous stories from his time in the NBA, his beautiful family and what coming back to the Big Apple means to him. In a rare moment, Kenny opens up about his controversial trip to North Korea, what it was like there and why he went. Only Kenny can tell a story like this! Of course ew talk some college basketball and Kentucky!

Omar’s coming… BACK to the Mike Safo podcast… the iconic actor Michael K. Williams, aka “Omar” from The Wire and “Chalky White” from Boardwalk Empire” stopped by Jack Demsey’s to join Lee Abbamonte and myself for some shenanigans.  Growing up, he was the furthest thing from a gangster kid and now the hipsters are taking over his beloved Brooklyn. Mike talks about his infamous roles as Chalky, and how he parlayed playing Omar on The Wire into meeting President Obama. What it’s like going through the acting and auditioning process and how I’m trying to find him a role that’s not so emotionally draining. He takes his passion for producing to his upcoming documentary, “Diamond in the Rough” on HBO which touches close to home. Things get personal during the filming of “The Night Of” as he tells us about his family members in the system. We hear Mike tell the story of his infamous scar, and how he came in contact with the person who gave it to him twice in his life. From playing and meeting Rick Ross to trying t

Joined today by 2-time World Series Champion and Gold Glove Winner, Kentucky’s own Doug Flynn. The Glue tells us about his adventures living in NYC while playing for the Mets; from his new Corvette getting stolen to how the New York media treated him. Doug takes us through his journey on how he walked on and played basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats and left early to go try out for the Cincinnati Reds. We talk about the current state of baseball and how analytics are ruining the game. Doug tells us some crazy stories about getting autographs from Mickey Mantle, Pete Rose setting him up with his wife, and working with the great Dick Gabriel. I could have listened to the Glue talk for hours, hope y'all enjoy!

Joined today by the incredibly talented actor Kevin Chapman. Kevin stops by in full Patriots apparel, bragging about all of Boston’s recent championships. Chappy tells us how he went from working for Boston’s Mayor Menino to becoming one of America’s best known actors. Kevin talks about starting a “Sober Comedy Club” up in Boston and how he has stayed great friends with some of the funniest comedians today. We hear about how he prepares for certain characters, like when he attended the Baltimore Fire Academy for his Role in Ladder 49. Chappy tells us how it is on the set with Clint Eastwood, hanging out at Sean Penn’s house and leaving Hollywood to regain his Boston roots. From playing Detective Fusco on “Person of Interest” to collecting Boston sports memorabilia, Kevin Chapman shows why he’s much more than an actor, despite the fact that he takes a bunch of shots at me. Follow Chappy on twitter: @KevinChapman

Joined today by the host of the award winning podcast “Amateur Traveler”, Chris Christensen. The voice of one of the most popular traveling podcasts out there tells what made him start his show almost 9 years ago before anyone was doing it.  We discuss how and why Chris picks his destinations to tackle, from Chad to the Hudson Valley and from Botswana to London. We hear about some of the life changing events that hosting the podcast have given Chris, such as being invited to the White House by President Obama and being a hired paparazzi to photograph the Pope in Jordan. We talk about our mutual travel friends: Gary Arndt and Lee Abbamonte; what makes a good travel guest on his show, and we hear about his upcoming tour of Africa. Chris tells us why he doesn’t count countries just to get a stamp in his passport, and we finish up by tips form the O.G. of travel blogging and podcasting on the dos and don’t of how to make money in the travel world. There is a reason his podcast is used to teach English all over th

Joined today by the iconic, world-renowned painter, writer, and performer New York Artist Joe Coleman and the godfather of true crime writing, Harold Schechter. In a rare interview, Joe tells us about his friendship with the late Anthony Bourdain, that famous final episode that he was featured on, how it happened and what Tony meant to him. We hear how Joe and Harold, met and if I can join their circle of friends. Harold keeps us up to date on his life: hint (becoming a grandfather, authoring a new series of books and Red Dead Redemption 2) – not in that order. Joe opens up and lets us know how growing up in an Irish Catholic environment led him to paint some of the world’s most intricate and jaw dropping paintings, what brought him to the Big Apple in the 70’s and what he misses about those times. Of course we talk about the secret Odditorium and the artifacts in there such as Albert Fish’s famous gruesome letter, Ed Gein’s Christmas card and Charles Manson’s hair. From Harold being a pallbearer at Joe’s wed

Joined today at Jack Demseys by the former WBO junior welterweight champion of the world Chris Algieri. Chris is a world renowned nutritionist and breaks down a perfect diet to get me shredded. We move on to talking about growing up on Long Island, his cornrows, and how he absolutely dominated the kickboxing world before transitioning over to boxing. Chris tells us about winning his historic title against Ruslan Provodnikov, and then jumping right into the belly of the beast to China to fight future hall of famer Manny Pacquiao. We talk about his last 2 bouts with Amir Khan and Errol Spence Jr. For the first time Chris lets the world know if he’s planning on stepping into the ring again in 2018 and who he wants to fight. All this and more with the Champ. 

Joined today by Lieutenant Bernard Whalen, retired Detective Robert Mladinich and NY Post reporter Philip Messing. These three genius criminal minds talk about their book "Case Files of the NYPD: More than 175 Years of Solved and Unsolved Crime". We hear about what led these 3 men to join up and write the definitive coffee table crime book of NYC. We talk about some of the most infamous criminal cases of all time such as, Son of Sam David Berkowitz, Joel Rifkin, Etan Patz, 9-11, and the Lindbergh baby. Besides talking about crime in NYC, we talk about what led Bernard Whalen and Robert Mladinich into the world of law enforcement, and how Philip developed a relationship with John Gotti. From good guys, bad guys to criminal cases from the 1900s. Be sure to check their book for rare photos and enjoy the podcast!   Buy the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Case-Files-NYPD-Solved-Unsolved/dp/031648198X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1547227541&sr=8-2&keywords=case+files+of+the+nypd Lt. Whalen's website: htt

Joined today by the REAL Javier Pena from the hit Netflix show, Narcos. Agent Pena and I talk about his time before Colombia with the DEA, why he joined, what his early assignments were and how he got sent to Colombia in the first place. Javier tells us about meeting his partner Agent Steve Murphy, the obstacles and dangers they faced in Colombia and what their “normal” days were like. Agent Pena talks to us about how he got involved as a consultant with the show Narcos, and what was true and what was Hollywood. For example, was he really as smooth with the ladies as the show portrayed. Javier opens up on his feelings about NOT being there when Pablo Escobar was killed. From his career after the death of Escobar to his current tour with Agent Murphy, get the REAL story about NARCOS.  Follwing what Javier is dong and when he is on tour: twitter: https://twitter.com/deanarcos website: https://www.deanarcos.com/ https://twitter.com/MikeSafo

Joined today by professional NBA2k player Ahmed Kasana, aka “Mel East”. Ahmed tells us about growing up in Staten Island, playing video games and the moment he knew this would be his career. We hear about the rigorous process of becoming a professional gamer, from the ultra-competitive combine to finally getting drafted at Madison Square Garden. Mel East tells us how he got his nickname (no he’s not representin’ the “East Coast”), how he convinced his Muslim mother that NBA2K was a real profession, and what he wants to do to change the community. From talks about the current NBA to who he models his game after. Follow Mel East on twitter: @meleast2k Instagram: kasanaahmed

Joined today by friend of the show, boxing guru and author of one of the best sports books I've ever read, "Basketball: A Love Story", Rafe Bartholomew. Rafe stopped by the Westwood One studios, shared a few beers and tried to convince me that he hasn't gone Hollywood. We talk about how he got the call to be part of this legendary book, and what it took to put Holy Grail of Basketball interviews into one book. We discuss all things basketball and touch on some entertaining stories about the NBA, Michael Jordan, and the characters of the NBA. We touch on the topic of boxing current events like Wilder vs Fury, Lomachenko, and the Canelo fight. It wouldn't be an interview with Mr. Bartholomew if we didn't talk about traveling to the Philippines and his prediction of Manny Pacquio's next fight. From stories of McSorely's to learning tagalog, Rafe contonitues to be one of the best guests on the show. Follow Rafe the following platforms: His website: :  http://www.rafebartholomew.com/ Twitter: @Rafeboogs Instag

Joined today by the # 7th ranked heavyweight boxer in the world, Adam “Baby Face” Kownacki at Park Deli in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. My co-host for today’s show is, 4 Time Golden Gloves winner and former light heavyweight boxer Will “Power” Rosinsky. Will and I talk about his professional career, fighting Kelly Pavlik, and if he still has the itch to get back in the ring. 7 minutes into the show Adam comes onto the show and we talk about the Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder fight from the previous night. The two boxers share their thoughts on the controversial outcome of the fight. Adam then tells us about his 18th win against Prince Charles Martin, his upcoming fight with Gerald Washington, and how he’s training for this fight. As Park Deli cooks us authentic homemade Polish food we hear about Adam’s trip to Poland, hanging out with the Polish President and growing up in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Will and Adam then share some amateur boxing stories, talk about the current state of boxing and what can be done with the ju

Joined today by 14 year MLB veteran, 2-time all-star, 1985 World Series Champion and the current color analyst for the Anaheim Angels Mark “Goobie” Gubicza. We hear about Mark’s insanely impressive memorabilia collection which ranges from his own starting lineup figure to Yankee Stadium seats cufflinks. Mark and I talk some hot stove baseball rumors and where he thinks some of the big name free agents might end up. “Goobie” tells us about becoming the Angels color analyst, hanging out with Vin Scully and what it’s like to watch Mike Trout play day in day out. Obviously we talk about Mark’s legendary playing career, those beautiful powder blue Royals uniforms and his thoughts on the old and new Yankee Stadium. From texting with Pete Rose constantly to being a Duke basketball fan, Goobie is hands down one of my most entertaining guests I’ve ever had on! Follow Mark on twitter: https://twitter.com/Markgubicza https://twitter.com/MikeSafo Subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5 Star review

Joined today by food blogger, Lonely Planet travel writer and photographer, Austin Bush.  Austin stopped by the 42nd street studio to talk about his new book, “The Food of Northern Thailand”. He explains the difference between what Americans think Thai food is and what traditional Thai food is. We also talk about his friendship with the James Beard Award winning chef and friend of the show Andy Ricker, and his love affair with Thailand. Our frequent co-host, Simba joins us while Austin tells us the difficulties of getting recipes for his book. From how he got his start writing at Lonely Planet to getting roped into coming over to Simba’s for dinner. Find out where Austin is, what he's up to and where to get his book by checking out the following sites. https://www.austinbushphotography.com/ https://twitter.com/austinbushphoto https://twitter.com/mikesafo https://www.instagram.com/bushaustin/

Joined today by the lead singer of the Spin Doctors, Chris Barron. Chris joins me from Jack Demsey’s bar and we talk about my mom possibly being a groupie, our love affair with our cats, and how he finally got back his hat from the iconic “Two Princes” video. We hear about Chris’ crazy life growing up, what “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong” is really about and if he really came to NYC with $100 in his pocket and a guitar. Chris tells us about the NYC music scene in the 90’s, how the Spin Doctors continue to be friends after 30 years and what their last fight was over. From the 7th grade teacher who inspired Chris Barron, to smoking weed with Willie Nelson, Chris takes us on a wild interview. Follow Chris on twitter: @thechrisbarron  check out his new album “Angels and One-Armed Jugglers” on his website: thechrisbarron.com follow me on twitter: @mikesafo

Joined today by political commentator, best-selling author and my pal: the queen Ann Hart Coulter. Ann and I talk about her new book “Resistance Is Futile!: How the Trump-Hating Left Lost Its Collective Mind”. We talk about what’s going on in Florida, Arizona and Georgia with all the post-election recounts and controversies. The always opinionated Ann Coulter gives us her opinion on sports teams changing their names that some find offensive. We hear what it’s like to be one of the 46 people President Trump followers on twitter and if Ann is ever worried about getting unfollowed. Ann touches on some hot button issues such as, the caravan coming to the United States, immigration and whether she wants President Trump to build the wall. From Super Bowl talk, to starting at MSNBC, to being on the cover of Time Magazine. As always, Ann Coulter delivers like only she can. Subscribe to the “Mike Safo” podcast and check out everything my buddy Ann is doing by clicking on the following links: Twitter: @AnnCoulter Ann

Joined today from Jack Demsey’s by UFC Legends Dennis “The Menace” Bermudez, Ryan Laflare and regular guy Mark... We talk the unbreakable Bro-mance of Ryan and Dennis, why strong island is a hub for UFC fightrers, and about Dennis’s lst visit to the show. Ryan announces his retirement from competitive fighting and we discuss why, what he’ll miss the most and what he is leaving behind. We compare the current state of the UFC to how it was just 10 years ago. We go really deep into the life of UFC fighters from how much they are paid, how scheduling happens, and how their social media is monitored. We get a behind the scenes look at the historic UFC 299 and we find out why he had to pay for the fight 2 times despite the fact that he competed on the card. The boys and I have a ton of laughs talking about fetishes, Dennis’ skin boarding, video games and much much more. From hearing how Ryan Laflare helped get the UFC legalized in NY State to Dennis’ future with the UFC, this episode has it all.  Follow all my gue

Joined today by the 2 time James Beard award winning chef Andy Ricker. Andy and I talk about his time here in NYC, from his favorite hangouts to the best noodle places and of course I try and convince him to reopen Pok Pok here. We talk briefly about his newest venture in Las Vegas and what’s next for him. We talk about his years over in Thailand, some tips on visiting South East Asia, and what was it about the beautiful country that changed his life. We hear about how he left Chiang Mai and opened up Pok Pok in Portland and touch on the current state of the restaurant business. Andy and I speak at length about his friend Anthony Bourdain. We hear some inside info on how that famous Parts Unknown episode came about, what it was like shooting the scenes and the impact Tony had on not only his life but the lives of millions of fans.  Oh and we finished up talking about our awesome cats! Check out the following sites to keep track of everything Andy is up to and be on the lookout for the 3rd book in the Pok Pok

An episode 20 years in the making… joined today by my childhood friend turned uber talented movie director Reinaldo Marcus Green. Rei and I share some laughs about growing up on Staten Island, playing baseball together and arguing over the Yankees and Mets. Rei tells what inspired him to quit his job and get in the movie business. From his short film “STOP” to the newly released, critically acclaimed “Monsters and Men”, Reinaldo has been everywhere lately, schmoozing it up at Sundance and even hanging out with Spike Lee. We talk about how race has become a hot topic and the best way to keep the conversation going. Listen to what inspired Rei to tackle some of the controversial issues he directs, how he out kicked his coverage with his beautiful wife and more... Be sure to check out “Monsters and Men” by following Reinaldo on twitter at: @Reimarcusgreen