Can We Be Frank?

Can We Be Frank?

Mike Axe, Robert Zappia, Derek Kedell, and Ruby Dorkings talk entertainment industry chaos, career wins, and real life — like the recorder's off, except it's on. New episodes weekly.

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    They Canceled Our Favorite Shows! | Can We Be Frank? S2 EP 04

    Why do some of the best TV shows disappear... while others seem to last forever? In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, we take a trip through some of television's most unforgettable series—from The Office, Breaking Bad, Freaks and Geeks, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Golden Girls, MASH*, and The Simpsons to reality shows like Selling Sunset, America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Clarkson's Farm, and more. Along the way, we dive into what really causes great shows to get canceled, why audiences connect so deeply with certain characters, how Hollywood decides what survives, and the behind-the-scenes realities of television production that viewers rarely get to hear about. If you've ever had a favorite show end before its time—or wondered why some series never seem to go away—this episode is for you. 👇 We want to hear from you: What's the one TV show you wish had never been canceled? Leave a comment and join the conversation! #CanWeBeFrank #TVShows #Television #Hollywood #TheOffice #BreakingBad #BuffyTheVampireSlayer #FreaksAndGeeks #TheSimpsons #GoldenGirls #Entertainment #Podcast #TVFans #PopCulture #YouTubePodcast #TelevisionHistory #RealityTV #Streaming #Nostalgia #FilmAndTV

  2. Jul 21

    Is AI Helping or Hurting Creativity? | Can We Be Frank? S2 EP 03

    Can AI create real art, or does creativity still depend on the human behind the technology?   In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, our first guest of Season 2, Drü of INDRÜWORLD, joins us for an honest conversation about AI music, human creativity, ethics, transparency, and the future of artists. Drü shares how she combines original songwriting, music production, AI tools, live performance, and community building to create something that is both digital and deeply human. We also get into the harder questions: Is AI replacing artists or expanding what they can do? Should AI-created work always be disclosed? And how do we embrace new tools without losing the people, stories, and emotion that make art matter? Stay through the end as Drü performs “Trucks Broke Down,” out now on all major music platforms. Is AI helping creativity, hurting it, or doing both? Tell us what youthink in the comments. Listen to “Trucks Broke Down”   https://dru.indruworld.com/   Follow Drü: TikTok: @indruworld https://www.tiktok.com/@indruworld   Instagram: @indruworld https://www.instagram.com/indruworld/

  3. Jul 13

    When Passion Becomes Pressure: Can Work Ruin What You Love? | Can We Be Frank? S2 EP 02

    What happens when the thing you love becomes something you have to do?   In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, Derek, Ruby, Robert, and Mike get into the complicated truth behind passion, creativity, work, and whether turning something you love into a job can slowly take the joy out of it. The conversation starts with what everyone is watching, from comfort shows and Taylor Sheridan-style storytelling to The Pitt, reality TV, and the shows that pull us in without us fully knowing why.   But then it gets more personal.   Can your passion survive deadlines, expectations, clients, pressure, and money? Is “do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” actually true or is it the fastest way to turn something special into another responsibility?   The crew talks about creative burnout, side hustles, finding purpose in the work, doing your best, and why sometimes the simplest version of something is the strongest.   This one is for anyone who has ever loved making something, dreamed of turning it into a career, or worried that success might change the way it feels.   Because loving something does not always mean it should become your job.

  4. Jul 4

    Hollywood Is Out of Ideas. Creators Aren’t | Can We Be Frank? S2 EP 01

    What if the next big filmmaker, storyteller, or entertainer isn’t waiting outside a studio gate — but already building an audience from their phone? In the Season 2 premiere of Can We Be Frank?, Mike, Robert, Derek, and new co-host Ruby get frank about the changing future of entertainment: why Hollywood keeps reaching for remakes, why original ideas are breaking through on social media, and why creators no longer need permission to start. From Ruby’s journey from Christmas temp to working across three continents, to the rise of TikTok talent, niche audiences, horror hits, comfort movies, rom-com debates, and the question every creative secretly asks — “How would I grade my career so far?” — this episode is about ambition, reinvention, and the strange, exciting moment we’re all living through. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re too late, too unknown, too underqualified, or too far outside the system to make something meaningful, this conversation is your reminder: the gatekeepers are not gone, but the gate is no longer the only way in. HOSTS: Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell Ruby Dorkings

    Hollywood Is Out of Ideas. Creators Aren’t | Can We Be Frank? S2 EP 01

  5. 07/04/2024

    Blast from the Past: 90s Hits and Misses, Short Seasons, & Nepotism Fails | Can We Be Frank? EP 08

    Take a trip down memory lane on Can We Be Frank? as we revisit the iconic films and TV shows of the '90s. We'll discuss our top picks, the era's biggest box office hits, and vent about today's shrinking TV seasons. Plus, we tackle the topic of nepotism in Hollywood, spotlighting the critical reception of Kanye West's daughter in The Lion King tribute. Join us for a mix of nostalgia, critique, and candid conversation! HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  6. 05/25/2024

    Diplomas vs. Dares: Education, Extreme Antics, and Work-Life Harmony | Can We Be Frank? EP 07

    Join us on Can We Be Frank? as we debate the necessity of formal education in the entertainment industry, juxtaposed with thrilling tales from the wild world of Jackass and Nitro Circus. We also dive into strategies for balancing work with personal life, sprinkled with our favorite ways to unwind with hobbies. Tune in for a blend of daring stories and practical advice, perfect for adrenaline junkies and aspiring creatives alike! HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  7. 05/21/2024

    A Long Run with Your Name In Lights: Career Longevity | Can We Be Frank? EP 06

    Join us on Can We Be Frank? as we delve into the business of autograph conventions and the varied fees charged by celebrities. We also discuss the secrets to sustaining a long career in the entertainment industry and share the essential insights and advice we wish we had known when first starting out. HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  8. 04/12/2024

    Tron Legacy or Letdown, Script to Strip, and Tackling the (Writers) Block w/ Guest Lee Wiley | Can We Be Frank? EP 05

    Get ready for a high-voltage episode of Can We Be Frank? as we ignite a debate between Tron and Tron Legacy – which digital universe reigns supreme? Dive into the art of adaptation with guest Lee Wiley, who reveals the magic behind turning screenplays into graphic novels. And if you're battling the creative blues, we've got the ultimate tips to turbocharge your imagination. Don't miss out – tune in and transform your creative hurdles into triumphs!

  9. 03/22/2024

    Dress Distress, Oscar Fest, and Production Quests | Can We Be Frank? EP 04

    In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, we delve into the buzz around one Oscar dress that sparked a social media firestorm, take a closer look at the award ceremony's unforgettable moments, and break down the typical timeline of a film's journey from initial idea to the big screen. Join us for an engaging exploration of fashion controversies, cinematic celebrations, and the realities of movie making.

  10. 03/03/2024

    Award Show Controversies, Indie Film Breakdowns, and Production Highs | Can We Be Frank? EP 03

    In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, we delve into recent Emmy and Oscar controversies and award show rules, celebrate the spirit of independent filmmaking, and share our thoughts on the most rewarding part of the production process. Join us for a candid look at the highs and lows of creating and recognizing excellence in film and television. HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  11. 02/21/2024

    New Wheels (of Fortune), Scripting Thrills (Halloween: H20), and AI Skills | Can We Be Frank? EP 02

    In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, we delve into the transition of hosting duties on Wheel of Fortune post Pat Sajak, unwrap the intriguing screenwriting journey of Halloween H20, and answer a student's question about integrating AI into our work lives. Tune in for a blend of entertainment insights and tech talk. HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  12. 02/21/2024

    Nepo-Babies, Networking, and the Film School Dilemma | Can We Be Frank? EP 01

    In this episode of Can We Be Frank?, we have a candid debate surrounding nepo-babies and the power of networking in the entertainment industry. Plus, we tackle a burning question from a listener: Is pursuing film school really worth it? Join us for a frank discussion on privilege, opportunity, and the realities of breaking into Hollywood. HOSTS Robert Zappia Mike Axe Derek Kedell

  • 12 Episodes

About

Mike Axe, Robert Zappia, Derek Kedell, and Ruby Dorkings talk entertainment industry chaos, career wins, and real life — like the recorder's off, except it's on. New episodes weekly.

Information

  • Creator
    Can We Be Frank?
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Can We Be Frank?
  • Show Website
    Can We Be Frank?