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#4: Get to Know ~ “The Wingman” James Holeva

10 Jan

“The Wingman” James Holeva and I “met” via Twitter. I checked out some info on him and thought he was a pretty sexy and interesting guy. Since I do have several male readers and really cool chick readers I knew that you guys would definitely want me to introduce you to this ladies man.

I’m so excited to have had the honor to interview this talented up-and-comer because I can assure you in no time at all he will be walking the red carpet, the next George Clooney, with a different hottie on his arm at every event.

While I have aspirations of walking the red carpet, see I Owe It All To Poop, I would never be the girl on “The Wingman’s” arm because let’s just face it, I’m totally not cool enough. And I’ve never been titty-f*cked and don’t think I’d ever want to be. It sounds painful. Does that make me a prude?

Well, don’t read on if you are a prude because this interview is Rated R. For those of you interested in testing your sexual prowess keep reading….and for my Chi-town readers “The Wingman” is having a live show this weekend — flyer below!

promo shot hat

What made you decide to not only write but to publish The Wingman Chronicles?
I figured it would get me a lot of ass, and make me a lot of money, and ass and money are what life is about. Relax I’m half-joking. Honestly I heard about Sex and the City when I was in high school and I thought how cool would it be to read something like that but from the guy’s perspective. I looked everywhere for something like that but couldn’t find it, so I had to write it myself. I always felt my life was a movie, show, book etc. and write what I know. I remember I had an English teacher Mrs. Kelleher in high school and her saying to the class about writers and fiction, and how nobody’s life is that interesting, and raising my hands and telling her my life is, and she said, you should write about it. And I was like, I have been. I don’t think she knew at the time it would be quite as filthy but like I said, I write what I know, and I write it the way I’d want to read it.

Wingman1

How long did it take you to recount your sex-capades in your autobiography? Were there any stories you just couldn’t share or did you really put it all out there?
Well like they say in music you have your whole life to write your first album so it was a situation of that. I’m a fast writer but the first story of the book was written in August of 2008, and then I would write a story here and there, then in September of 2009 I started writing a column called The Wingman Chronicles for Northeastern PA. arts & entertainment weekly The Weekender so I compiled a lot of ideas I drew from there, then kept going. It was on and off while I was working on many other things but the actual spurts of writing were very quick. Recounting the stories is easy—one thing I have going for me is although I may pretend I don’t know a lot of girls I don’t want to talk to I actually remember just about everything I’ve experienced, and I’m talking about exact conversations, what was said, how the word was said, and this goes back to being a little kid. It’s not an autobiography, it’s an autobiographical novel so there is some fiction thrown in. I originally was going to go the memoir route until the last minute but I planned for this to be a series and had some fictional ideas for the future books so I wanted to keep my options opened creatively. The book is 90 percent completely true, and the other 10 percent based on true experiences and true feelings, with some fiction mixed in. A lot of the stuff the reader will be like “this is so fucked up, this can’t be true,” it probably is true, and some of the fictional parts are actually the most personal to me. I pretty much put it all out there, and the next book will go deeper.

How do women respond to you knowing you may write about your adventures with them? How do you handle any criticism?
They go out of their way to try to do crazy shit that will get them in the book. All I could say is stay the fuck away from my ass, and stop trying to pee on me. As for criticism I used to let it get to me but I’ve learned you can’t please everybody, and when you do this kind of work any reaction is good reaction. So it’s a combination of ignoring and taking every chance I get to call a cunt a cunt. I think all the kids out there should do the same thing.

You created and star in “The Wingman” a TV pilot currently being shopped to networks…maybe the next Sex and the City? How do you like acting?
Yes, I see it as a male version in many ways, and I see it being very close to the book. In fact, I wanted the book to feel like the reader is watching a show on DVD or Netflix and the chapters to be like episodes. You could watch, in this case read, one episode at a time, or a few, or go right through the whole season like I do when I find a new show I like. I love acting, and have always wanted to act. In fact, while writing I get up and act the dialogue out to make sure it feels right.

Check out the trailer for the pilot here.

Which actress would you love to work with?
A couple who pop out are Scarlett Johansson, who I see as perfect for the Noelle character from the book, and Gina Gershon who would be great to play a character in the sequel.

Gina Gershon

Gina Gershon

You also have a debut album coming out and a radio show! How do you do it all and what do you envision for your future?
I recorded a comedy album last year, and it should be out soon. It’s going to be called “Bedrooms, Backseats and Bathroom Stalls.” The recording went awesome and really has the live experience I try to give in my shows, and wanted it to have. I think sometimes albums come off very rehearsed but my show is very interactive and crazy, I do a lot of crowd work, I do the #askwingman Q & A portion of the show where I answer sex, dating, relationship and creepin’ questions on-stage and I wanted that live energy to really come out and I think we got that. I did a syndicated weekly radio segment “Wingman Wednesday” originating on 97 BHT from 2008-2011 and that was a blast. I had to be toned down since it was a top 40 section but it went very well, and I’d answer dating and creepin’ questions every week. I’m hustling constantly and always have a ton of ideas going on. And more than half the time is spent on the business end of it all but it’s what it takes. I envision myself of course writing and starring in my own TV series, writing and starring in movies… comedy/drama, doing great work, more of The Wingman Chronicles book series, writing other books of other genres, world tour, playing Madison Square Garden, and also have other TV series and scripts… Both for me to act in, and stuff I wrote with other people in mind. And in the short term keep writing, and touring, trying to go everywhere. My book is doing well all over the world and I want all my fans to have the chance to come see me live. Yeah, I have a few plans.

Let’s talk breasts since you’ve seen a lot….big, small? Real, fake? How’s your motorboat skills?
I don’t like real tits, I don’t like fake tits, I like great tits. How they got that way is none of my concern. I don’t order dinner at a restaurant and go into the kitchen and ask the chef. What exactly did you put in this sauce, are the spices natural, is it gluten free? I just slop that up. Same with tits, which is why my motorboat skills are top notch. It’s all about the passion and the nipple sucking. However having a huge cock and all I do prefer to titty-fuck. The best part about it is keeping a girl in suspense about where I’ll blow my load.

Do you have a background in journalism/writing/communications? What would you be doing if you weren’t starting a “Wingman” brand?
Yes I do. I was a journalist for six years writing primarily sports features but a little bit of everything, from game stories, to entertainment, and some hard news. I also had a ski column “The White Stuff” (and no, I didn’t even name it), before I had my sex column “The Wingman Chronicles.” Hmm… If I wasn’t starting “The Wingman” brand I’d be working on another writing, acting or comedy related project but otherwise I’d be pursuing journalism actively or working in marketing/public relations… If it was something completely different I’d be a lawyer. You’ll see in my book I have a solid legal background, learned primarily from watching Ally McBeal and Boston Legal.

Being a native to New York I’m sure you’ve been to The Sex Museum? What was your favorite exhibit?
I’m actually a native to Clarks Summit, PA, but live in New York City now. My favorite exhibit would have to be the bathroom. Me, sex museum, horny girls… I kind of was the exhibit. Don’t worry I’m thinking about merchandising replica hard-eights.

What is your drink of choice?
Diet coke… I live on that. Alcoholic drinks is what I’m sure you actually mean and lately either Vodka Tonic or Vodka Cranberry. I used to be big into Sugar Free Red Bull and Vodka but lately the majority of my drinking is at shows, a little bit before and during, and then primarily after and I’m already amped enough from the performance so I don’t need more caffeine.

Who is your favorite sports team? Be careful…you’re talking to a lifelong Cubs fan!
Well I’m more about watching a good game in general. Baseball is by far my favorite sport to watch, but I would have to say the Phillies.

Any words of wisdom for Jlee’s readers?
Read my book, come see me live, follow me on twitter… If you’re a hot girl let me spank you on-stage, sign your tits and ass. Don’t use an endless amount of coupons in line in front of me at the grocery store. Every time you cockblock you’re not helping your friends, you’re making them hate you, and most of all don’t ever let anybody stifle your adventure.

Live in Chicago January 11th and 12th! Get your tickets!

Live in Chicago January 11th and 12th! Get your tickets!

Please follow “The Wingman” via twitter or you can ‘Like’ his FB page here. A big thank you to Mr. James Holeva! This interview has been a pleasure. I’ve been laughing and cringing. ;) Thanks again.

#3: Get to Know ~ Anthony Snape

13 Oct

It’s been a while since I’ve featured a “Get to Know” and I’m so honored to introduce you all to Australian singer/songwriter….ANTHONY SNAPE!

I have not been fortunate enough to personally know Anthony Snape as I know my #1 and #2 Get to Know’s. I only recently met Anthony at a home concert at my boss’s house. Read the post: I’ve Got Friends in Low Places.

Having the opportunity to meet and briefly speak with Anthony was truly inspiring because he is living his dream of writing, recording and playing music for fans, yet he is still a humble and kind man who is grateful for his many experiences.

When I stole Anthony for this snapshot I told him of my writing with hopes of featuring him on my blog. Thinking he would never in a million years opt to be a “Get to Know” for some silly little blog he actually raved of how much he respects writers.

I guess he would, being a writer himself, but I can’t tell you what it meant to me to hear such positive words from a fellow artist. I hope the future allows me more opportunities to see Anthony in concert because he is a true talent. Keep reading to learn more about Anthony:

At what age did you know you wanted to be a singer/songwriter?
I have never wanted to be anything else.

Briefly describe how you got to where you are today.
I knew what I wanted to do and I worked really hard to make it happen. No matter what it is in life that you want to do, the combination of perseverance, a tireless work ethic and passion, plays a huge roll. Of course luck is a big one too but I believe that you can make your own luck by being prepared for the right opportunities. The details of my journey can also be found in this bio.

What is the first instrument you began playing and how many do you currently play? What is your favorite instrument to play?
I started with singing then Piano and later on I picked up the guitar. I taught myself how to play by ear (listening and mimicking the music that I liked). I love playing the drums and any other item that makes a noise. I have played and attempted to play many instruments, flute, trombone, eflat bass, and had a lot of fun with them all.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Writing songs, making albums and playing shows for many people. I’m inspired to create music that affects the world.

What do you miss most in Australia?
I’m asked this question a lot and the answer is always; The people. It’s usually followed by the question what do you like most about America and the answer is the same; The people…. You guys are awesome!

What is your favorite topic to sing about?
I don’t really have a favorite subject, I love songs that make people feel something, music that evokes emotion.

Now for some FUN questions…

You were born in January…do you think you are like your astrological sign (Aquarius)?
I’m not sure. Maybe.

People – women especially – love accents. What is your favorite American accent?
That old New York accent is awesome. I love how accents sound. They are so musical and have mostly to do with the rhythm and tone of each sound that’s why when you sing, accents mostly disappear.

Best Pizza: Chicago or New York? Italy. ;)

What was your first job?
I mowed my grandparents lawn for pocket money.

How can people follow you? Twitter? FB?
Find me on all the above: https://twitter.com/anthonysnapefacebook.com/anthonysnape and INSTAGRAM: snapeshots

Any words of wisdom for Jlee’s readers?
Life is meant to be this crazy, enjoy the ride.

I’d like to say a very big Thank You to Anthony Snape for giving me the honor of being one of my Get to Know posts!

Anthony will be in Chicago playing next summer so check back for details and be sure to “like” Anthony on FB and follow him on Twitter! :)

#2: Get to Know ~ Katie Mikolay Gensler

5 Mar

I am just thrilled to announce my next Get to Know special guest who is also a dear friend….

The fabulous KATIE MIKOLAY GENSLER!

I haven’t been fortunate enough to know Katie since our high school days, but am very grateful for the time I have known her! I met Katie through one of my best friend’s (and my old bowling partner) Kristin, who is Katie’s older sister. Kristin and I met at Bridal Bootcamp. We immediately became fast friends because we had so much in common – I mean, wine and bowling is a great beginning. :)

That said, Kristin introduced me to her family, and I am so fortunate to know all of them. They are a great family and have all welcomed me with open arms.

My fave memory of Katie is from the time Kristin took us on a girl’s trip to Punta Cana. By the way, if you’re looking for a travel agent contact Kristin, she is the best! Kristin generously used her travel agent “points” so we got a free trip. Yayy! I do have such wonderful friends!

I had traveled with Kristin before, but never with Katie, and I hoped it would go well because sometimes girls, booze and bikinis can be a complete disaster! We ended up having a GREAT time, of course, and I had the opportunity to really bond with Katie during that trip. We went bowling – yes, the resort had a bowling alley! - played flippy cup with some fun Germans and had lots of girl talk over multiple games of Rummy. I had always liked Katie and enjoyed spending time with her, but during that trip I learned that Katie is a very warm hearted woman who really IS the whole package: beauty, brains and a great personality! Keep reading to learn more about Katie:

What is your current profession? Horse Racing TV Analyst

Briefly describe how you got there: I was lucky enough to land an internship as a media intern at Arlington Park Racecourse while in college. Then after that, the rest is history once – you get “bit,” it’s hard to turn back. I have worked at four racetracks now and counting…

Did you always know this was the direction you wanted to take your career in? I knew I wanted to do something in sports and on TV, but many in this industry are “bred” into it and I was not. But I am glad to be here now!

What has the biggest challenge been that you have faced? Picking winners every race I’ve analyzed. :)  Of course, that’s expected!

What is your favorite sport and sports team? Football! Da Chicago Bears will always be my team even though I move all the time, but I have “adopted” the Texas Longhorns since being married. Horse Racing is a must and looking forward to the summer Olympics!

What is your favorite alcoholic drink? So many to choose from, but my husband and I have created the “Longhorn.” (Read previous answer why) It’s orange vodka, Cointreau, and ginger ale…refreshing and delicious!

Who is your favorite shoe designer? I am a fan of Dolce Vita right now.

What is your favorite personality trait about yourself? I am mostly always in a good mood and if something gets me upset, I don’t let it get me down for long.

How do you deal with any criticism you might receive? Like many, I hope to learn from it. I grew thicker skin in the past years because you need it to be able to survive in this business.

I know you are a big fan of yoga. How often do you do yoga and why do you love it so much? How else do you keep that fab figure you’ve got? I wish I could practice everyday, but once or twice a week is satisfying enough. Why do I love it? It’s physically, mentally and emotionally stimulating. I run at least 10-15 miles per week also.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully still enjoying my career as much as I do now. I would love to work for some major networks. Actually I got a call from NBC Sports to do some work so we will see!

How can people follow you? Twitter? FB? Website? Watch me live down in New Orleans during the winter months at the Fair Grounds and at Presque Isle in Pa. in the summer. My twitter account is @katiemikolay and you can find me on facebook as well under Katie Mikolay-Gensler. Website underway so stay tuned!

Any words of wisdom for Jlee’s readers? A quote I always live by is tough times don’t last, tough people do! Also if a longshot at the races takes early money then throw a few bucks on that horse. The horse gods have spoken!

I’d like to say a very big Thank You to Katie Mikolay Gensler for giving me the honor of being one of my Get to Know posts!

xx Katie, and I hope you will all “like” Katie on FB and follow her on Twitter! :)


							

#1: Get to Know ~ Susannah Collins

10 Feb

I am soo excited to be sharing this new section with you titled (for right now at least) Get to Know. I am beyond thrilled to announce my very special guest and friend, my #1: Get to Know…..

Downers Grove’s own SUSANNAH COLLINS!

I’ve known Susannah since our high school days at Downers Grove North High School. We weren’t in the same group of friends, but we were always friendly. One thing about Susannah, she has always been the nicest gal. She was nice to EVERYONE in high school, which I think is a true testament to her character.

We went separate ways for college, but crossed paths again at 22 once we all came home from college. We would get together for TV and wine nights. :D Now that Sooz (as we call her) is so busy traveling we don’t see her very often but anytime she’s in town we all are excited to see her and hear her fab stories about her exciting life.

I am SO honored to know this woman who is kind, compassionate and fun. And when I was suffering from Post Partum Depression she wrote me an amazing letter of encouragement telling me to stay strong and giving me hope. It’s things like that which make this woman so extraordinary! Keep reading to learn more about Susannah Collins and some of Sooz’s own thoughts:

What is your current profession?
I am a reporter/correspondent for Showtime Sports, working specifically on the shows Inside the NFL and Inside NASCAR.

Briefly describe how you got there:
I owe it all to a douchebag, no joke. A buddy of mine started a web-based sports talk show called Sports Nutz and thought I’d make a good host. So myself and another girl, Sam, were the co-hosts and we’d do weekly episodes taking a very sarcastic take on timely sports-related stories. In March of 2010 we did an episode called “Douchebag Nation” about douchebag fans at the Big East basketball tournament at Madison Square Garden. And boy, those douchebag fans did NOT disappoint. One in particular decided to launch himself at me on camera whilst foolishly displaying his wedding ring for all of cyber space to see. Needless to say, it made for quite an entertaining episode. So entertaining, in fact, that a popular online sports blog, Deadspin.com, picked it up, giving us thousands of hits. One of those hits came from the Executive Producer of Inside the NFL. He called me in for an interview and the rest is history. If I could find that douchebag fan and give him that kiss he wanted I actually would….though I don’t know how his wife would feel about it!

Did you always know this was the direction you wanted to take your career in?
Not at all! I actually got my degree in Broadcast Journalism but had no intention of ever using it after graduation. I was a complete musical theater geek, and after I graduated college I went to London for a year to get my post-graduate degree in Musical Theater at Mountview Academy of Theater Arts. When I got back to the states, I performed in a bunch of Chicago productions – including a stint as a performer on the Spirit of Chicago dinner cruise ship – HA! But, as most starving artists will tell you, it’s a brutal industry and it started to take it’s toll on my mental health. I started working in PR but after a few years and a few HORRIBLE bosses I knew I needed to change it up. I’d always been a huge sports fan and started to think I missed my calling by not going into broadcasting. When the Sports Nutz gig came up I thought, “Why not?” Kind of crazy that it’s come full circle like that.

How have you stayed so down to Earth?
It’s the only way I know how to be. I think because I found a bit of success at age 30 rather than age 25 I have a greater appreciation of how the industry works. I know as quickly as success came, it can be taken away, so I don’t take a single moment for granted. I’ve got some life experience behind me that certainly has helped me stay grounded. That and I have the most incredible support system in my family and friends. I’m surrounded by people who would kick my ass if I started to play the diva card!

What is your favorite sport and favorite sports team?
I LOVE baseball. I am a die-hard, life long Chicago Cubs fan…Sigh…

What is your favorite alcoholic drink?
Vino. Red, white, pink, bubbly….I love it all. But lately I’ve also been into Makers.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I honestly have no idea. I try not to get too far ahead of myself. So much has happened in two years so I can’t even speculate! I hope to be happy, living in a nice home with my hubby, perhaps a kiddo or two. My dream job is to work covering the Cubs….Never say never, right?

Who is your favorite shoe designer?
Miu Miu. Their shoes are so beautiful and I love them because they accommodate large feet, which is, unfortunately, what I have. I’m on my feet a ton so comfort is crucial, and Miu Miu’s manage to not kill my tootsies while still looking fierce.

I see that you’re a guy’s girl…i.e., hot, loves football, but you’re also a girl’s girl, i.e., fashionable, many gal pals and also just a nice person in general – are you really the next “America’s Sweetheart?”
Hmmm, not sure if I’m the next “America’s Sweetheart”. But that’s very nice of you to imply! One thing that makes me happy is that I have both male and female fans! I love hanging with the boys, but my girlfriends are my heart & soul. The fact that women enjoy the work I do, especially in a male-dominated environment, makes me very proud.

What is your favorite personality trait about yourself?
I like that I can laugh at myself. You can’t take yourself too seriously in this business otherwise you’ll go crazy. Having a sense of humor is essential.

What is your favorite body part?
I’ve always thought I had nice ears.

How can people follow you? Twitter? FB?
You can follow me on Twitter at @susannahcollins or find my Susannah Collins fan page on facebook. And tell your friends! :)

Any words of wisdom for Jlee’s readers??
Don’t be afraid to dream. Laugh a lot. Love your family & friends. And drink wine. :)

Sooz at the Super Bowl!!! (Photo courtesy of Inside the NFL)

I’d like to say a very big Thank You to Susannah Collins for giving me the honor of making her my first Get to Know post! I’d also like to encourage you all to take a look at this video clip of Susannah (one of my faves) as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader for a day! Great piece!! Click here to view.

xx Sooz, and I hope you will all “like” Susannah on FB and follow her on Twitter!

Get to Know

9 Feb

Even though my “Bad Mom” posts have taken some time to get rolling I am getting positive feedback on the idea. I like the idea of adding other people’s voices to my blog because just hearing from me may get a little bit boring. I mean I know I’m pretty awesome, but after a while talking about my wine and Juicy Couture might get old. ;)

Last week I randomly came up with the idea to start a section called: Get to Know which would feature interesting people doing fun and exciting things with their lives. We all need inspiration from time to time, and I thought, what a great way to help those people out there trying to DO something…those people not spending 24/7 on Facebook (my most hated addiction).

So here you have it. I came up with this and approached a friend about being my first post, not knowing how she would take it. Would she think this is stupid and a waste of her time? After all, she’s big time now and this is just a silly blog full of bitch sessions on etiquette! I figured it was worth a shot. If she said no I told her I wouldn’t be mad, and I really wouldn’t have been.

But she responded and said YES! She loved the idea and would be honored to be my first post in the Get to Know section. Yayy!! :D

I don’t know if I love the name “Get to Know” so if you have a better idea shoot me a comment or an email at jlee5879@live.com. And if you have an idea for someone you’d like to be featured in the “Get to Know” section please pretty please let me know. I know a lot of rad people, but I want these to be exceptional peeps!

And check back to see who will be featured as #1: Get to Know!

Being featured in Jlee's "Get to Know" section is totes awesome...

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