Zuzu All Grown Up

Zuzu: All Grown Up – Finding God in It's A Wonderful Life with Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos—a cherished friend of the show—to delve into the spiritual dimensions of It’s a Wonderful Life. Pastor Greg explains how the film’s enduring message can lead us to find God in its narrative—a revelation so powerful that it inspired him to write Finding God in It's A Wonderful Life. Tune in to discover how this beloved classic can deepen our connection with God and remind us of the wonderful life that awaits us all.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Conversation with Brian Rohan

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Brian Rohan. Renowned for his portrayal of George Bailey, Brian shares what it means to bring this iconic character to life and carry George Bailey’s timeless message to audiences. Beyond his connection to It’s a Wonderful Life, Brian is a versatile character actor celebrated for his stage work, including Marilyn, Mom & Me, and his chilling performances as Norman Bates from Psycho. Join us for an engaging conversation about his acting journey and how It’s a Wonderful Life has shaped his career.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – Ringing in Hope with The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell shine a spotlight on The Salvation Army’s timeless mission of service and compassion—highlighting the iconic Red Kettle Campaign. Guests include Mark Dreyer, Lieutenant Amanda Hines, Dan Furry, and Santa Carlucci. Together, they illustrate how donations and volunteer efforts sustain the Army’s wide-ranging support—from crisis relief and shelter to food assistance—all guided by the principle “Doing The Most Good”

Zuzu: All Grown Up - The Christmas Menorahs: How A Town Fought Hate & the NIOT Movement

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell reflect on the true story of how the Billings, Montana community stood united against hate during the holiday season of 1993. Our special guests include Dr. Janice Cohn, author of The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate; Patrice O’Neill, filmmaker and founder of the Not In Our Town movement; Margaret MacDonald, former Montana State Senator and community activist; Teresa and Marilyn Hanley, Billings residents whose outreach efforts became pivotal in the town’s response. Together, they recount the events that inspired both a book and a film, revealing how a community’s stand against anti-Semitism became a beacon of hope and unity.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – Celebrating 40 Years of Gremlins with Zach Galligan

In this exciting holiday episode of Zuzu:All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell are joined by Zach Galligan, star of the 1984 classic Gremlins, to celebrate the movie’s 40th anniversary. Zach reflects on the making of this unforgettable film, its lasting legacy, and the cautionary tale of what happens when you don’t follow the rules—no water, no bright light, and definitely no midnight snacks! From the origins of the term “Gremlins” in WWII aviation slang to fan theories connecting Gremlins to It’s a Wonderful Life, this episode dives deep into the lore surrounding this iconic movie.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Timeless Joy of Christmas Vacation with Ellen Latzen

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Ellen Latzen, who soared to stardom as a child after her breakout role in Fatal Attraction. She later charmed audiences worldwide as Ruby Sue in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, now cherished as a holiday classic. Ellen reflects on the unexpected fame that followed and reveals how this iconic role shaped her life then and now. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation that celebrates the enduring spirit of the holiday season.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Conversation with Benjamin Ayres: Acting, Life, and Christmas Films

In this 100th episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome an accomplished actor, Benjamin Ayres, widely recognized for his work in Hallmark Christmas movies and the Canadian television series Saving Hope.
Benjamin reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry, the magic of bringing holiday stories to life, and the deeper connections these films create with audiences. Tune in for a heartwarming discussion about storytelling, the joy of Christmas movies, and their timeless ability to uplift and inspire.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Magic of the Holiday Season with Santa Rick Rosenthal

In this holiday episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Santa Rick Rosenthal, a beloved Santa Claus who has spent decades spreading Christmas cheer. Santa Rick shares his inspiring journey to becoming a symbol of holiday magic and his dedication to mentoring future Santas through the Northern Lights Santa Academy. Through heartwarming stories and a steadfast commitment to preserving the authenticity of the Santa tradition, he brings the timeless spirit of hope, generosity, and wonder to life.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – Fans, Friends & Family of It’s a Wonderful Life

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell uncover the magic behind Seneca Falls’ annual transformation into Bedford Falls, celebrating It’s a Wonderful Life. More than just a festival, it’s a homecoming for people who share a love of the film, forming an extended Bailey family bound by its uplifting spirit. 
 
Joining Karolyn and Chris are Jeanne Stillmock, Rose & John Pezzulo, Gerri Raschiatore, BJ Schoonmaker, Peggy Lundin, Carolyn Gruhn, Donna Friedman, and Holly Anne Waye—each revealing how this welcoming community has forged lifelong bonds, making Seneca Falls feel like home.

Zuzu: All Grown Up – Merry Christmas George Bailey with the Seneca Community Players

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes the Seneca Community Players—featuring Seth Kennedy, Eric Jansen, Gary Xavier, Peter Saracino, Jason Hurdle, and Stuart Sewell—for a conversation about their annual radio play, Merry Christmas, George Bailey. The group shares insights on portraying beloved characters while honoring the timeless spirit of It’s a Wonderful Life. They also highlight their mission to foster, broaden, and celebrate theater arts in Seneca County and its surrounding communities.