Best Michael Varrati Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 87: Cannibal Mukbang (2023) with Aimee Kuge and April Consalo 1:18:15

1d ago1:18:15

1:18:15

Sarah and Carrie are joined by writer/director Aimee Kuge and actress April Consalo to discuss Cannibal Mukbang! We get juicy, meaty behind the scenes details, we talk mukbang of course, cannibal romance, prop food, complicated dynamics, and more!

1
Episode 106: Abby 1:22:36

11d ago1:22:36

1:22:36

The story of a woman possessed! This week, Peaches and Michael are raising some hell on behalf of 1974’s ABBY! In addition to discussing how this burgeoning cult classic was almost lost due to studio suppression, our hosts delve into how it fundamentally breaks the Judeo-Christian mold of exorcism cinema. Joining the conversation is acclaimed write…

1
Episode 86: Motel Hell (1980) with Chris Dortch II and Dustin Kramer 1:21:19

17d ago1:21:19

1:21:19

Sarah and Carrie are joined by Chris Dortch II and Dustin Kramer to talk about wacky garden cannibalism in Motel Hell (1980)! We've got cannibalism of course, 80s food philosophy and villain depiction, landscape of cannibalism films of the time, sustainable humans, smoked meats, roadside food, director Kevin Connor's foodie film legacy, and more! P…

1
Episode 105: Wild at Heart 1:34:41

26d ago1:34:41

1:34:41

…and weird on top! This week, Peaches and Michael take a fever dream of a road trip in celebration of 1990’s WILD AT HEART! In addition to paying homage to the legacy of David Lynch, our hosts delve into the film’s unapologetic commitment to horniness. Joining the conversation is best-selling author Mallory O’Meara, who continues to be inspired by …

1
Episode 85: Intruder (1989) with Christie Gersten and Patrick Farmer 1:29:45

1M ago1:29:45

1:29:45

Sarah and Carrie are joined by Christie Gersten and Patrick Farmer to talk about the grocery store maniac film Intruder (1989)! We talk best kills, feast scenes, name brand (and no brand) food, sharp objects, charcuterie equipment, fart blossoms (?), eyeball olives, creative filming, and more!

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Episode 104: Streets of Fire 1:29:25

1M ago1:29:25

1:29:25

A rock & roll fable! This week, Peaches and Michael are ruled by the music in celebration of 1984’s STREETS OF FIRE! In addition to discussing this deliciously dystopian vision of a 50’s style future, our hosts delve into the unmitigated power of filmmaker Walter Hill for curating a cult vibe. Joining the conversation is multi-faceted artist extrao…

1
Episode 84: Scooby-Doo and The Gourmet Ghost (2018) with Merrilee O’Neil and Angela Campbell 1:25:35

1M ago1:25:35

1:25:35

Sarah and Carrie are joined by Merrilee O'Neil and Angela Campbell for a fun and light episode - Scooby-Doo and The Gourmet Ghost (2018)! There's celebrity chefs, cats and dogs eating stuff they shouldn't, overly teched-out kitchens, tongs and fennel, food based mystery, and more!

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Episode 103: The Fly 1:43:03

2M ago1:43:03

1:43:03

Be Afraid. Be Very Afraid. This week, Peaches and Michael are buzzing over their celebration of 1986’s THE FLY! In addition to discussing the film’s themes surrounding the delicate nature of the body, our hosts delve into the powerhouse pairing of Geena Davis and Jeff Goldblum. Joining the conversation is renowned writer and critic Matt Konopka, wh…

1
Episode 83: The Shape of Water (2017) with Jamie Alvey and Amanda Jane Stern 2:43:38

2M ago2:43:38

2:43:38

Sarah and Carrie are joined by lovely guests Jamie Alvey and Amanda Jane Stern for what might be our longest episode to date! We discuss 2017's The Shape of Water, including eggs galore, unnaturally green key lime pie, Kellogg's Cornflakes, filmmaking talk, monsters, and more!

1
Episode 102: Mars Attacks! 1:25:35

2M ago1:25:35

1:25:35

Nice planet…we’ll take it! This week, Peaches and Michael are preparing for invasion in celebration of 1996’s MARS ATTACKS! In addition to discussing this wacky satire’s stacked cast, our hosts delve into whether or not the film is a prophetic vision of actual extraterrestrial arrival! Joining the conversation is acclaimed screenwriter and author J…

1
Episode 82: Crimson Peak (2015) with Alessandra Pino and Danielle Ryan 1:54:02

2M ago1:54:02

1:54:02

Sarah and Carrie are joined by delightful guests Alessandra Pino and Danielle Ryan to discuss 2015's Crimson Peak! We dig into gothic horror tropes, uneasy kitchens in crumbling haunted houses, gothic color theory, costuming, porridge, tea, and more!

1
Episode 101: Valley of the Dolls 1:31:38

3M ago1:31:38

1:31:38

Sparkle, Neely, Sparkle! In celebration of their brand-new season, Peaches and Michael are taking a deep dive into 1967’s VALLEY OF THE DOLLS! In addition to discussing how this adaptation of Jacqueline Susann’s sordid novel captured queer imaginations, our hosts delve into the story's searing exposé of showbiz! Joining the conversation is legendar…

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Episode 81: A Haunting in Venice (2023) with Merrilee O'Neil and Michael Varrati 1:32:59

3M ago1:32:59

1:32:59

Sarah and Carrie are joined by Merrilee O'Neil and Michael Varrati, two verified Poirot heads, to talk about A Haunting in Venice (2023). We've got eggs, apples, a comparison of various Poirots through the years, multiple Hallowe'en parties, gothic palazzos, and of course honey!

1
Episode 80: House of Spoils (2024) with Chanelle Sinclair 1:26:12

3M ago1:26:12

1:26:12

Sarah and Carrie are joined by Chanelle Sinclair, chef and owner of The Fates Bread and Bottle in Portland, to discuss House of Spoils (2024)! We get into all the chef politics, bread making, foraging, kitchen witchery, and more!

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Episode 79: The Haunting (1963) with Sarah Matchette 1:19:18

4M ago1:19:18

1:19:18

We're back baby! Sarah and Carrie both had significant health journeys last year in different ways, but after a looooong break we are back. And joined by Sarah Matchette to discuss The Haunting (1963). We've got martinis, cranky cooks, dining room gatherings, peach shortcake, egg cups, and more. Happy New Year everyone!…

1
Episode 22 - Live from Lexington! 31:34

5M ago31:34

31:34

Hot off the heels of their podcast event at Scarefest, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa have a live on location chat about the weekend’s festivities, as well as a real time look at convention life. Additionally, the trio talk about the HATCHET franchise reunion, the celebs they were excited to catch up with, and the dangers of misspelling tattoos. Submit…

1
Episode 100 - Idol Worship: Matthew Lillard 1:25:30

5M ago1:25:30

1:25:30

Episode 100…and it’s a SCREAM! This week, Peaches and Michael are celebrating this momentous occasion with an Idol Worship celebration all about pop culture icon Matthew Lillard! In addition to discussing this zeitgeist defining actor’s landmark roles that range from Stu to Shaggy and beyond, our hosts delve into his place as a champion figure for …

1
Episode 99: Addams Family Values 1:27:56

5M ago1:27:56

1:27:56

The Family Just Got a Little Stranger! This week, Peaches and Michael are feeling all together ooky in celebration of 1993's ADDAMS FAMILY VALUES! In addition to discussing the pop culture defining turn of Joan Cusack as Debbie Jellinsky, our hosts delve into how this superior sequel got a queer injection from legendary screenwriter Paul Rudnick! J…

1
Episode 21 – “Mount Bloodmore” 34:40

5M ago34:40

34:40

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa imagine what it would be like if they ran their own convention and discuss their vision of where, when, and with whom this magical event would take place. Additionally, the trio talk about the success of TERRIFIER 3, the disadvantages of life on the road, and Felissa pitches her idea for “horror speed dating.” …

1
Episode 98 - Idol Worship: Corey Feldman 1:19:21

6M ago1:19:21

1:19:21

Never say die! This week, Peaches and Michael dreamed a little dream of an Idol Worship celebration all about COREY FELDMAN! In addition to discussing this undeniable superstar’s impact on both the mainstream and cult canons, our hosts delve into a staggering oeuvre that includes THE LOST BOYS, THE GOONIES, GREMLINS, LICENSE TO DRIVE, and so much m…

1
Episode 20 : The One with Scout Taylor-Compton 43:14

6M ago43:14

43:14

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa are joined by horror icon Scout-Taylor Compton, who shares stories about growing up in a mortuary, getting her start on Jay Leno, and how her need to meet Mario Lopez might have just kickstarted everything. Additionally, the group discusses overcoming insecurities, the “passed on” celebs they would have wanted …

1
Episode 97: Phantasm 1:22:54

6M ago1:22:54

1:22:54

If this one doesn't scare you, you're already dead! This week, Peaches and Michael are having an interdimensional Halloween in celebration of 1979’s PHANTASM! In addition to discussing this cult classic’s thoughtful presentation of male friendship, our hosts delve into the undeniable presence of Angus Scrimm. Joining the conversation is filmmaker H…

1
Episode 19 - "The Poughkeepsie Cheescake Killer" 34:40

6M ago34:40

34:40

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa discuss their near misses and weirdest encounters on the convention circuit. Additionally, the trio dig into their escape plans from sinister persons, the dangers of accepting mysterious baked goods, and the perfect storm of making an indie film happen. Plus, penny candies, buddy comedies, and Felissa shares st…

1
Episode 96: The Witches 1:25:02

6M ago1:25:02

1:25:02

Remove your wigs! This week, Peaches and Michael are having a hexy hotel stay in celebration of 1990’s THE WITCHES! In addition to discussing the enduring majesty of Anjelica Huston as the Grand High Witch, our hosts delve into this cult classic’s long-lasting sense of kindertrauma. Joining the conversation is drag icon Anna Phylactic, who discusse…

1
Episode 18: “Tarantula on my Shoulder” 37:05

7M ago37:05

37:05

This week, Tiffany and Kane reminisce about some of their shared convention misadventures, a car ride that left a certain American Werewolf on edge, and how they are able to push phobias aside for the sake of the camera. Plus, the duo reflect on the singular wonder that is Tiny Tim and talk about the dream roles they’re still chasing. Also, no one …

1
Episode 95: Beyond the Valley of the Dolls 1:37:42

7M ago1:37:42

1:37:42

In a scene like this you get a contact-high! This week, Peaches and Michael are entering a world of super-octane girls in celebration of 1970’s BEYOND THE VALLEY OF THE DOLLS! In addition to discussing the ongoing legacy of filmmaker Russ Meyer, our hosts delve into this forever’s fave’s ability to strut between genres. Joining the conversation is …

1
Episode 17 – “Bit by a Swarm of Bees” 26:46

7M ago26:46

26:46

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa take a creepy questionnaire that helps reveal “someone’s dark side.” Additionally, the trio discuss serial killer culture, weird sex songs, and Felissa’s love of NAKED & AFRAID. Plus, details about the LIVE Casualty Friday event coming to Scarefest! Submit your questions to [email protected]!…

1
Episode 94: Mommie Dearest 1:52:25

7M ago1:52:25

1:52:25

The meanest mother of them all! This week, Peaches and Michael are fetching the axe in celebration of 1981’s MOMMIE DEAREST! In addition to discussing this audacious portrait of Hollywood’s juggling of camp and severity, our hosts delve into the double standard women are held to when delivering larger than life performances. Joining the conversatio…

1
Episode 16 - Hot Demon 33:10

8M ago33:10

33:10

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa discuss the world of nightmares, sleep paralysis, and connecting to worlds beyond. Additionally, the trio share their individual recipes for what they think would make the perfect Casualty Friday craft cocktail, muse on otherworldly libraries, and reveal why they are "the people's podcast." Submit your question…

1
Episode 93 - Elvira: Mistress of the Dark LIVE at the Academy Museum 1:00:44

8M ago1:00:44

1:00:44

Unpleasant dreams! In this very special episode, Peaches and Michael are LIVE at the legendary Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in celebration of 1988’s ELVIRA: MISTRESS OF THE DARK! Recorded on site in the David Geffen Theater on July 19th, 2024, our hosts delve into how the maven of the macabre’s inaugural motion picture outing inspired generati…

1
Episode 15 – “Cans of Wine” 38:51

8M ago38:51

38:51

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa reminisce about their first experiences as a convention guest. Additionally, the trio discuss celebs THEY were excited to meet, the humanitarian side of the horror community, and offer up details about the upcoming first ever LIVE Casualty Friday! Plus, Kane talks about the stunt accuracy of THE FALL GUY! Submi…

1
Episode 92: House 1:38:35

8M ago1:38:35

1:38:35

The girls were…eaten! This week, Peaches and Michael take a deranged trip to the countryside in celebration of 1977’s HOUSE! In addition to discussing this fever dream fave’s place as a singular slice of psychedelic haunting, our hosts delve into the impactful imagery of ghost cats and severed fingers. Joining the conversation is music-industry man…

1
Episode 14 – “The Nine Minute Meditation” 29:32

8M ago29:32

29:32

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa wade into the hot button issue of AI in art, as well as dig into the discussion surrounding THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT production controversy. Additionally, Felissa reflects on TERRIFIER 2, Kane shares his enthusiasm for fart videos, and Tiffany postulates that we’re “the watercooler of podcasts.” Submit your ques…

1
Episode 13 - "Drawing the Line" 46:19

9M ago46:19

46:19

With Kane M.I.A, Tiffany and Felissa are joined by filmmaker/show producer Michael Varrati to dig into topics that include "dangerous" project promotion and the questionable nature of true crime. Additionally, the trio discuss fender benders, THERE'S A ZOMBIE OUTSIDE, and the surprise premiere of VICTOR CROWLEY. Then, Kane makes a surprise appearan…

1
Episode 91: Clueless 1:24:25

9M ago1:24:25

1:24:25

As if! This week, Peaches and Michael are rollin’ with the homies in celebration of 1995’s CLUELESS! In addition to discussing the sheer pop culture defining power of filmmaker Amy Heckerling, our hosts delve into how this forever fave cleverly subverts the tropes of classic teen cinema. Joining the conversation is drag icon Biqtch Puddin’, who sha…

1
Episode 12 – The One with William Butler 36:55

9M ago36:55

36:55

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa are joined by horror renaissance man William Butler, who shares stories from his time making monsters…and then getting killed on-screen by them. Additionally, William reminisces with Kane about their time making FRIDAY THE 13TH PART VII, anecdotes about Viggo Mortensen are shared, and the whole gang debate the …

1
Episode 90 - Sainted Subgenre: Queer Horror 1:36:40

9M ago1:36:40

1:36:40

The monsters are no longer in the closet! This week, Peaches and Michael dig into a “fearz” subgenre that’s near and dear to their hearts – QUEER HORROR! In addition to discussing how they’ve watched the cultural conversation around LGBTQIA+ representation in genre shift in real time, our hosts delve into the very real catharsis fright cinema provi…

1
Episode 11: “Mr. T is Everyone’s Free Pass” 46:18

10M ago46:18

46:18

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa discuss navigating movie making while having a family, as well as dish on working with difficult co-stars. Additionally, the trio dig into the pros & cons of Vicks Vapor Rub, Tiffany shares stories from the set of Star Trek, and Kane and Felissa reveal their favorite naughty greeting at conventions. Plus, tips …

1
Episode 89 - Idol Worship: David Cronenberg 1:29:47

10M ago1:29:47

1:29:47

Long live the new flesh! This week, Peaches and Michael are serving body in an Idol Worship celebration of David Cronenberg! In addition to discussing this notorious auteur’s penchant for exploring physical frights, our hosts delve into how audiences often react erotically to his particular brand of horror. Joining the conversation is acclaimed wri…

1
Episode 10 - "Ghost People Everywhere" 42:33

10M ago42:33

42:33

This week, Tiffany, Kane and Felissa discuss regrets - jobs not taken, paths not chosen, and the different directions their lives might have gone. Additionally, Tiffany talks about her tumultuous time as a sea cadet, Felissa reveals her encounters with ghosts, and Kane chats about the aftermath of his injury. Plus - the trio engage in a rousing bou…

1
Episode 88: 9 To 5 1:31:23

10M ago1:31:23

1:31:23

Pour yourself a cup of ambition! This week, Peaches and Michael are gathering around the watercooler in celebration of 1980’s 9 TO 5! In addition to discussing this undeniable classic’s crucial feminist messaging, our hosts delve into the power of Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton as pop culture defining powerhouses. Joining the conversatio…

1
Episode 9 – “Who Doesn’t Have a Dance Background?” 43:54

11M ago43:54

43:54

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa talk about the guests they’d one day like to have on the show and in the process share some fun stories about their colleagues in fright. Additionally, the trio chat about the best way to make a convention connection, Kane discusses his Angry Grandma obsession, and Tiffany offers up some memories from behind-th…

1
Episode 87 - Growing Up Cult: Joshua John Miller 1:00:52

11M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

A true child of the popcorn! In this very special episode, Peaches and Michael sit down with iconic actor, writer, and filmmaker Joshua John Miller for an in-depth talk about a lifetime in cult cinema. In advance of his forthcoming feature THE EXORCISM, Joshua reflects on growing up with genre royalty for parents, living a punk lifestyle, and takin…

1
Episode 8 – “Always Carry a Spoon With You” 40:04

11M ago40:04

40:04

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa discuss the weirdest item that they’ve ever been asked to autograph by a fan. Additionally, the trio chat extensively about tattooing sensitive bits, the notion of honoring stunts at the Oscars, and roles that they know they’d have “killed.” Plus, stories about Rob Zombie and Eli Roth! Submit your questions to …

1
Episode 86: Rosemary's Baby 1:40:16

11M ago1:40:16

1:40:16

He has his father’s eyes! This week, Peaches and Michael are moving into a new apartment building in celebration of 1968’s ROSEMARY’S BABY! In addition to discussing this classic’s commentary on bodily autonomy, our hosts delve into the notion of “the devil next door.” Joining the conversation is celebrated screenwriter Joshua Conkel, who shares ho…

1
Episode 7 - “Phlebotomy and Babysitting” 44:32

12M ago44:32

44:32

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa discuss whether there was ever a moment where they considered quitting “the biz.” Additionally, the trio chat about the trials and tribulations of nude scenes, the potential for a SLEEPAWAY CAMP musical, Kane’s pube rage, and much more! Submit your questions to [email protected]!…

1
Episode 85 - Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me 1:54:04

12M ago1:54:04

1:54:04

We live inside a dream! This week, Peaches and Michael are having some coffee and cherry pie in celebration of 1992’s TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME! In addition to discussing David Lynch’s symbolic smashing of the television set, our hosts delve into the importance of giving Laura Palmer life. Joining the conversation is acclaimed filmmaker Ariel S…

1
Episode 6 – “No Authority Over the Clown Room” 41:03

1y ago41:03

41:03

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa reflect on some of the strangest places they’ve ever been asked to make a public appearance. Additionally, the trio chat about their experiences with haunted attractions, Felissa and Kane talk about taking whiskey shots at conventions, Tiffany remembers her visit to a “bad vibes” hotel, and much more! Submit yo…

1
Episode 84: The Room 1:43:57

1y ago1:43:57

1:43:57

Oh hi, Mark! This week, Peaches and Michael are spending some quality time on the roof in celebration of 2003’s THE ROOM! In addition to discussing Tommy Wiseau’s uniquely singular approach to storytelling, our hosts delve into this cult classic’s complicated presentation of female characters. Joining the discussion is acclaimed filmmaker H.P. Mend…

1
Episode 5 – “God Bless Trixie” 49:40

1y ago49:40

49:40

This week, Tiffany, Kane, and Felissa continue their conversation from the previous episode all about firsts, delving into first jobs and the dubious territory of first kisses! Additionally, the trio talk about dealing with bad co-workers, where to best pass gas at conventions, and Kane's visit to the Mustang Ranch. Plus, for the first time ever, w…

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Michael Varrati Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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