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"Love's A Secret Weapon" Podcast

Donna Loren and Dr Adam Gerace

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Donna Loren takes audio book reading to an innovative new level! In storytelling and autobiography, singer-actress Donna Loren and her collaborator Dr Adam Gerace delve into her life and career at the height of the Swingin' Sixties and what it all means for her today. Included interviews with Special Guests from Donna's past career as well as "Fan" Guests.
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In this episode, Donna and Dr Adam Gerace are joined by musician and author Jim Wilson to talk about his new book “Tuned In: Memoirs of a Piano Man”! Jim has had distinct, but complementary careers as both a musician and performer alongside his work as an expert piano tuner-technician to music royalty, including Paul McCartney, Elton John, Burt Bac…
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In this episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by longtime radio DJ Leslie Stevens! Leslie has 45 years’ experience as a DJ, including hosting his own long-running syndicated show “Route 66 Oldies Show”, which brings back the sounds and memories of the ‘50s and ‘60s. In their conversation, Leslie shares his journey from a small radio station in the …
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In this special episode, Donna and Dr. Adam are joined by musician Maurice Gainen! Maurice, who is a woodwind musician, producer, composer, and engineer, first worked with Donna to rejuvenate her signature song “It Only Hurts When I Cry” in 2009. He then engineered Donna’s first album in decades, “Love It Away” in 2010, and he provides the distinct…
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Welcome back to Season 6 of Love’s a Season Weapon Podcast! In this episode, you’re invited to a dinner party! Join Donna, Dr Adam, and special guests Sheryl Farber and Steven Stanley, who recorded this episode while Donna, Sheryl, and Steve were out to dinner in Topanga, CA.Sheryl Farber and Steve Stanley are music producers, musicians, archivists…
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“Truth is a mysterious entity. I love it and cherish it. Anytime I can speak the truth about my feelings, a little more of Me comes into focus. All the tears I’ve swallowed flow more freely now and I await the day that I can sing for you again”. In this final chapter of Donna’s memoir… It’s August 14, 2008, a pivotal day that led to Donna deciding …
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In a special episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by author, journalist, and podcaster Natalie Zett! Natalie has written Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told, a work of historical fiction that draws on her own family’s tragedy. At the center of the story is the death of Natalie’s real-life great aunt, Martha Pfeiffer, who lost her life …
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In this special episode, Donna and Dr. Adam are joined by musician Willie Aron! Willie, who is a Grammy nominee, worked with Donna to bring to life her first concert in over 50 years at Tiki Oasis in 2016. Donna and Willie share memories of that event and, in conversation with Donna and Dr Adam, Willie discusses his wide-ranging and diverse career …
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In this new chapter… Donna reflects on the relationships she had with her adopted father and her mother at the height of her ‘60s career and in their later years. Then, Donna and Dr Adam speak about the importance of understanding the good and not so good of one’s upbringing, so that we may move forward with compassion for ourselves and others. Plu…
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Welcome to a new chapter of Donna’s memoir! We open with a duet sung by Donna and Bobby Sherman on Shindig, “Casting My Spell on You”. In this episode…Donna takes us back to the early 2000s as her fashion business, ADASA Hawaii, enters a new phase with celebrity clientele and the hottest lines including Juicy Couture, James Perse, Isabella Fiore an…
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In this special episode before Donna commences reading a new chapter from her memoir…Donna and Dr Adam are joined by very special fan guest, David Linck. David has had a decades-long career in the news and entertainment industry, including at the Los Angeles Times, Box Office Magazine, and CNN. For over 30 years, he was a unit publicist for the maj…
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As this chapter closes… In the shadow of 9/11, Donna is offered the opportunity to open a new boutique in the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Leticia Lopez! Leticia is a journalist, author, and historian who has previously interviewed Donna – and now the tables turn as Leticia tells Donna and Dr Adam a…
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In this episode... After her stepdad’s death, Donna asks her mother to join her in Hawaii. Checking into the Mauna Lani Hotel for one night, Donna’s mother finally shares the truth about a trip she made to Boston when she was twenty years old, where she met the man who was Donna’s biological father. In conversation, Donna and Dr Adam talk about rec…
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As Donna continues reading from her memoir… An opportunity to do a fashion show in Florida leads Donna to create a full collection. But when it’s rained away, a bigger opportunity awaits – a trip to Monte Carlo! Donna, Jered, and many trunks of handmade garments, custom shoes, jewelry, and hats make their way to a fashion show on the Mediterranean!…
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It’s Dr Adam’s birthday, and what a gift he’s been to our Love’s A Secret Weapon Podcast! Turning 40 can be overwhelming, and so on his birthday, Dr Adam shares a reflection with you of how his values have evolved. Incredibly vulnerable and sensitive, here is our doctor of psychology reflecting on how imperfect life is! Donna and Dr Adam utilise hi…
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In this episode…Donna, Dr Adam, & Jered Cargman in conversation! In honor of Donna’s husband’s birthday, we are replaying our conversation from 2022 where Jered joined Donna and Dr Adam! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting in 1965 for Donna’s high school Prom, as well as their reconnecting and courtship many years later. Jered als…
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In this episode as Donna continues reading from her Memoir…she begins to work with a team to bring her new clothing designs to life in Hawaii. Utilizing old-world techniques to paint and sew the garments proves cathartic for Donna and the women she works with in her new atelier in Waimea. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guests: Jim a…
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As Donna continues reading from her memoir… Donna’s couture designs begin to attract attention on the Big Island of Hawaii culminating in a photo shoot in a volcano lava field! It’s Paris in Paniolo Paradise! Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest! Gary Wells is a writer and blogger devoted to mid-century culture, music, and fil…
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In this very special episode, Donna reunites with her longtime friend – actor, singer, and advocate Paul Petersen! Paul joins Donna and Dr Adam to reminisce about his role on The Donna Reed Show, talk with Donna about their decades-long friendship and to tell listeners about the important work of his organization, "A Minor Consideration", founded t…
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“We’re linking together in the frequency of Love”. Happy Valentine’s Day Love’s A Secret Weapon Community! In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna’s longtime friend, Swedish actress and artist Margareta Sjödin. Margareta revisits her TV and film career, including her role as the ditsy blonde in the comedy series Partaj, which wa…
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Welcome to Season 5 and a new chapter of Donna’s memoir! In this episode: Moving to the tropics requires a new wardrobe, and when Donna meets some silk painters, she is inspired to start designing dresses for the first time since her ‘60s career – this time, Hawaiian style! Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their first guest for the new season: photo…
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In this 60th episode of the podcast and the fourth season finale, Donna and Dr Adam reminisce about their recent travels, Dr Adam shares some personal news, and the duo give their thanks to you, the listeners, and guests who joined Donna and Dr Adam during the year. And in her holiday message to listeners, Donna draws inspiration from Vietnamese Th…
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In this episode, as Donna continues reading her memoir… Donna and her friend Vicki’s decision to read Shakespeare’s King Lear provides Donna with insight into her own relationships. And when it comes time for the North Kohala Library to move to a modern new building, an old Hawaiian tradition is used. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan …
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In this next chapter of Donna’s memoir… As Donna begins to form a new life and friendships on the Big Island of Hawaii, she is visited by someone from her past – her former father-in-law, Si. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next fan guest, Kyle Jasper! Kyle is an 18-year-old drummer who joins Donna and Dr Adam to talk about his love of mid-ce…
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In this episode… As this chapter of Donna's memoir concludes, Donna decides to write her mother a letter telling her that she finally knows the truth about her Dad. In a far-ranging conversation, Donna and Dr Adam discuss truth and the complexity of family dynamics, as well as how one can emerge from difficult experiences with greater clarity and s…
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In this episode... As Donna continues to read from her memoir, the healing energy of Hawaii proves to be the perfect place to process the truth about her Dad. Plus, you’re invited to Lunch with Lizabeth…and Todd! Donna and Dr Adam welcome back Todd Hughes and his partner P. David Ebersole to talk about Todd’s new book, Lunch with Lizabeth – a memoi…
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In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by Donna’s friend, Janis Weitz. Donna and Janis reminisce about their lifelong friendship, from meeting in elementary school to being on the sets of Shindig! and The Dating Game, celebrating milestone birthdays, and more. Revisit some of the stories Donna’s shared on the podcast with someone who…
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In this episode... After Donna returns to Hawaii, she begins to process the revelation that Morey is not her father. Donna and Dr Adam delve into meditation, mindfulness, and the power of 'stillness' when processing life experiences. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by fan guest and pop culture enthusiast Robert Baum. Donna, Dr Adam, and Robert d…
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Donna continues reading her memoir: When Donna returns to L.A. with Jered for a friend’s wedding, the truth is revealed: Morey is not Donna’s father. This revelation spirals Donna into illness. Plus, we have a special treat: Jered Cargman, Donna’s husband, joins Donna and Dr Adam on the podcast! Donna and Jered share memories of their first meeting…
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Welcome to Season 4, and it’s Donna – Hawaiian style! In this episode, Donna reacquaints with her high school prom date, Jered. Admitting their feelings for each other after so many years, Donna and Jered uproot and decide to make their new home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Living in a rural tropical area with the jungle and ocean all around takes …
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It’s the finale of Season 3! In this episode, the earth moves! Following the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and the arrest of O. J. Simpson, the relationship between Donna and her parents begins to unravel. While she begins to learn more about her adopted dad, Morey, a dramatic incident occurs that leads Donna to reevaluate the relationships in her lif…
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It’s Episode 50…and a new chapter! Seeking to take some positive action, Donna begins working with a professional to help uncover how her early experiences with her parents and career shaped her development. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam are joined by their next fan guest, Stephen White. Stephen lives in Melbourne, Australia and he switched careers mid-l…
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In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Donna's longtime friends, filmmakers P. David Ebersole and Todd Hughes. Todd and David are the documentary filmmakers behind works exploring the lives and careers of luminaries including Pierre Cardin, Trini Lopez, Patty Schemel, Cher and her mother Georgia Holt, and Jayne Mansfield. David and T…
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As Donna’s time in Sedona ends, she returns to L.A. and rents the former home of a Hollywood fashion icon. Settling back into life in L.A., Donna throws herself into a school musical project with her youngest daughter. Finding her feet after her divorce, Donna meets a producer wanting to bring the life of this former Shindig Girl to the small scree…
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Moving to a new place is hard and, as a divorcee, Donna tries to settle into her new community. And what’s that bright light in the sky…is it a UFO? Donna and Dr Adam discuss how Donna began to navigate the losses that come with divorce and the importance of self-forgiveness. Plus, it’s time for music as Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest t…
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Echoing an earlier emergency procedure she had at 19, Donna requires immediate surgery. Donna and Dr Adam discuss how family dynamics and life experiences affect our psychological and physical well being. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam welcome their next guest to the show – Bill Alexander. Donna has previously appeared on Bill’s The Bill Alexander Show an…
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Music is Power! And Love’s a Secret Weapon! In this special episode, Donna and Dr Adam speak with Brad Schreiber, author of Music is Power, a meticulously researched treatment of over 100 years of socially conscious music. Brad shares his thoughts on some of the most influential artists and music that intersected with Donna’s ‘60s career, including…
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It’s the Call of the Canyon! Donna contemplates a big move to the Red Rocks of Sedona. All the while, she navigates the complexity of divorce. Donna, with the assistance of Dr Adam, explores how we are shaped by our early experiences; and how, with awareness, we can begin to break old patterns. Plus, we continue to invite fans to be on our podcast …
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As Donna prepares for a big transition in her life, she returns to the recording studio for the first time in over a decade. Looking to promote her music and pondering a potential new direction to her career, she visits her former agent Norman Brokaw. Donna also decides to address an issue that has bothered her since she was a teenager. And the Red…
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Donna visits Lake Tahoe and then begins a lofty home renovation project while pregnant with her third child, her daughter Katie. However, there are big changes in store for the Dr Pepper Girl as she enters the 1980s. Plus, please welcome our next guest as part of Season 3’s focus on inviting fans to be our on podcast! Plastic EP, pop culture enthus…
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As we start a new year of the podcast, Donna continues telling her story post her ‘60s career. In this episode, Donna turns to her piano and music to express her emotions, frustrations, and the unknowns in her life during the turbulent 1970s. And it’s the Beach Party reunion you’ve been waiting for! Bobbie Shaw Chance, legendary acting coach, and D…
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For the holiday season and end of 2021, Donna shares a special message. Plus, Donna and Dr Adam continue their chat with John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig. In his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive, John has worked with Sonny & Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Eagles, Buffalo Spri…
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Zonk! Donna continues exploring new healing modalities and faces old fears when she takes up swimming and ballet.And the holidays are here! And, Donna and Dr Adam have your holiday treat. Over the next few episodes, John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig, will join her and Dr Adam to reminisce about his legendary career as an agent, …
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The holidays are here! And, Donna and Dr Adam have your holiday treat. Over the next few episodes, John Hartmann, Donna’s agent from her time on Shindig, will join her and Dr Adam to reminisce about his legendary career as an agent, manager, promoter, and record executive. John has worked with Sonny and Cher, Joni Mitchell, Peter, Paul and Mary, Th…
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Going from the pressure cooker environment of her parents’ house to a new life takes some adjustment. Donna tries to make sense of it all at the dawn of a new decade. There's even a New Year’s Party where Ry Cooder’s musical vibrations literally smash the heirloom glassware! Donna and Adam break it down, reflecting on dealing with difficult emotion…
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It's our third season! Newly retired from her professional career, Donna begins to explore her identity as a wife and mother, and what it means to be a woman of the 1970s. As she forges a new path, her home and life is filled with creativity via producer husband Lenny Waronker's artists, such as Randy Newman, Van Dyke Parks, and Ry Cooder.Plus we i…
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A death, a new life, and a change in direction. Donna rushes home from a Dr Pepper event after getting word that a family member is gravely ill. Continuing to feel pulled between her new life with husband Lenny and her parent's close control of her career, Donna calls the CEO of Dr Pepper and makes a liberating decision. As one chapter in her life …
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Producers Danny Thomas and Aaron Spelling cast Donna in a pilot for her own series, Two for Penny. Donna takes you behind the scenes and tells all about the on-set mishap with co-star Michael Constantine (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), romantic overtures from Bill Bixby, and why to this day she still thinks of director Paul Bogart whenever she brushes …
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