By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Chicago-born producer, rapper, singer, and songwriter Vi City to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

He got his start at the Midwest city’s storied Wild Hundreds, a proving ground that shaped his raw, reflective sound and entrepreneurial mindset. Blending lived truth with elevated ambition, Vi’s music captures both the weight of his origins and the clarity of an artist who built his own lane.

Vi City’s catalog has quietly amassed significant independent momentum. His latest project has generated over 2.8 million streams, with singles charting number 21 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart, while his breakout record “U Deserve” peaked at number 55 on the iTunes R&B chart. His audience continues to expand globally, now reaching 97K monthly Spotify listeners, over 7 million YouTube views, and over 228K Instagram followers.

He first entered the industry working with Mathaus Ent. and Chilly of 1st & 15th (Lupe Fiasco), before partnering with DJ Skee to release a mixtape through Skeeters TV. He later co-penned Nelly’s “Country N*** Fly (CNF)” and secured a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group.

As a writer, producer, and collaborator, Vi has worked across hip-hop’s mainstream and underground, including writing and featuring on Sir Michael Rocks ft. Twista’s “Some Ish” from the number one debut album Banco, and collaborating with hitmaking duo Da Internz (Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, and Nas). His music has also been featured on FOX’s hit series Empire and HBO’s Entourage. Recent collaborations include Moneybagg Yo, Tee Grizzley, and Lil Poppa, further cementing his relevance across generations of hip-hop. Beyond his own artistry, Vi City is the founder of Hundreds Entertainment, a music and film production company dedicated to developing emerging talent and expanding independent creative ownership.

On the latest episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Vi City shared Hundreds Entertainment’s origin story, his reaction when Empire and Entourage inserted his music into their shows, and some of the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs.

For more information about Hundreds Entertainment, visit their website.

You can connect with Vi City on social media. Visit their Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Twitter (X), & YouTube channels.

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Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to the second April 2026 edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! We got a lot of music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

While I was disappointed in Maddie & Tae’s sleepy and unenthusiastic take on “You’ll Be in My Heart,” I hope that Disney considers releasing more volumes of Main Street Country. (Album cover property of Walt Disney Records)

Main Street Country by Disney & Various Artists

Disney went country! The Mouse House released a new extended play that took some of their modern-day classics and handed them to some of country music’s top talents. Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown superbly tackled “Beauty & The Beast,” while Dasha and Restless Road surprisingly elevated Disney Channel songs, “The Climb” and “She’s So Gone,” to new levels of excellence. Breland also transformed “Go the Distance” into a beautiful R&B and country ballad. While I was disappointed in Maddie & Tae’s sleepy and unenthusiastic take on “You’ll Be in My Heart,” I hope that Disney considers releasing more volumes of Main Street Country, as it will be intriguing to see which of the genre’s top recording artists give their twist on the iconic songbook. B-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Beauty & The Beast,” “The Climb,” “She’s So Gone,” & “Go the Distance.”

With slick collaborations and snarky commentary, 10 Til’ Midnight showcases why Snoop Dogg is considered one of rap’s GOATS. (Album cover property of Death Row Records & Gamma)

10 Til’ Midnight by Snoop Dogg

Rap icon Snoop Dogg recently dropped his twenty-second(!) studio album, 10 Til’ Midnight. Revolt reported that the “Gin and Juice” rapper recruited a plethora of collaborators, such as October London, Pharrell Williams, Swizz Beatz (the standout track “Steps”), and Trinidad James (“Pop My S**t”) to assist with recording and production. 10 Til’ Midnight showcases the former Voice coach confronting his critics in tracks such as the catchy “Lied 2 U” and the percussion-heavy “Slid Off,” while advising jealous rivals to stand down in the intriguing “Stop Counting My Poccets.”  With slick collaborations and snarky commentary, 10 Til’ Midnight showcases why Snoop is considered one of rap’s GOATS.   B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Step,” “Lied 2 U,” “Stop Counting My Poccets,” & “OG to BG.”

In Another Life – EP by Tristan

Singer, songwriter, and Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar friend Tristan released his latest EP, In Another Life. Throughout the EP, the “Some Kind of Way” recording artist takes listeners on a journey that features hypnotic vocals and splendid instrumental arrangements. I am so proud of Tristan’s growth as a songwriter and vocalist. In Another Life – EP is a promising continuation of Tristan’s bright future. A

Tracks to Download & Stream: “Strawberry Wine,” “Deer in the Headlights,” “Whiskey,” “In Another Life,” & “Do You Sleep Good at Night?”

“One Night in Bangkok” by Aaron Tveit & the Cast of CHESS

Tony Award winner Aaron Tveit is taking the Great White Way by storm with the 2025 revival of CHESS! During the early months leading up to the show, the show producers released a preview of the show’s iconic song, “One Night in Bangkok,” and it was fire! On April 10, CHESS released the full track, and it did not disappoint. The Sweeney Todd and Wicked alum showcased his sassy side that would make Tim Rice, Benny Andersson, and Bjorn Ulvaeus proud. This cover of “One Night in Bangkok” will make audiences head to New York City’s Imperial Theatre to catch the full show! B+

“Obvious” by Chris Brown

Chris Brown surprised fans with two big announcements – a joint tour with fellow R&B superstar Usher – and a new single, “Obvious,” which is a single off his upcoming album, BROWN. Produced by RoccStar, “Obvious” showcases some of Chris’s best vocals so far this decade, along with why the “Forever” performer is celebrating 21 years of releasing music. B+

“RUNWAY” by Lady Gaga featuring Doechii

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is one of 2026’s most anticipated films! Interscope Records released the first single off the Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway-starring sequel, “RUNWAY.”  The song features a collaboration with Grammy and Oscar-winning Lady Gaga and rising star Doechii. The ladies crafted the house-meets-Hip-Hop track with Andrew Watt, Bruno Mars, Cirkut, and D’Mile, who all co-produced the song. Both artists shone on this slickly produced track and will make listeners transform their walkway into a runway. A

“Kaleidoscope” by Michael Lazar

Recording artist and Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar friend Michael Lazar dropped a new single, “Kaleidoscope.” The song is the first preview of his latest project, the EP Kaleidoscope. Michael transported listeners to outer space, and this song could serve as the soundtrack for an epic anime opening or the closing credits of a Prime Video or Netflix space drama. B+

“Mr. Know It All” by Teddy Swims

Teddy Swims wraps this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! Before he took the 2026 Coachella stage, he released a new single, “Mr. Know It All.” This song is pure fire! The song’s production reminds me so much of Phil Collins’ classic 80s pop anthems, and Teddy’s vocals gave me goosebumps! “Mr. Know It All” is a definite contender for 2026 Song of the Year. A+

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By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

A Note from Jacob: Welcome to the 425^th episode of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  When I started this platform back in November 2019, I did not know that this journey would take me to interview authors, Emmy-winning actors and journalists, Grammy-winning producers, independent recording artists, my fellow podcasters, Reality TV legends, and social media influencers. Thank you to all my guests and their respective media teams for taking time out of your schedules to trust me and my platform! Also, a special shoutout to my family and friends who encouraged me throughout my journey! Finally, I want to say “Thank You” to everyone who has listened to or watched an episode! I appreciate your continuing support!

I am thrilled to welcome back my friend, author and content creator Marcus J. Anthony, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar!

 The Dublin native is an upcoming author who previously published Love of Sacrifice , then rebooted it as The World of Antheric. Some who have known Marcus from school found the news of his book a surprise, as Marcus struggled through school dealing with dyslexia and social anxiety. Marcus lacked focus in his studies and would spend most of his time daydreaming about flying on dragons or waving a wand to cast a spell. Fantasy fueled Marcus’s mind. However, it caused him to fall behind in school. He would be exempt from Irish language studies, which was disheartening for him, as he could not translate his country’s original language. When Marcus was ten, he suffered from sleep anxiety. So, he decided to use his strong imagination to create ‘movies’ in his head that would help him sleep. That was when some of the characters in this novel were created. In the years that followed, the movies in his head developed into a magical world that Marcus could not resist writing about. Creative writing became his passion, and Marcus would not allow his dyslexia to stop him from achieving. He spent most of his teenage years (staying home on weekends) writing and learning until he found his writing style.

Marcus has a great love for animals and supports charities. He is vocal about awareness of animal abuse, which is expressed in the story through Jenin’s past experiences. Marcus has four cats: Summer, Junior, Littler, and Leia. In 2017, Marcus fell into a dark spell of generalized anxiety and depression, which delayed the release of his book. The Black Grawth came from his experience with anxiety and panic attacks. And Gaul – the Dark Lord- represented the darkness of depression. With the help of treatment, family, and meditation, Marcus found strength and happiness again and continues to write, drawing inspiration from the world around him.

Since 2024, Marcus J. Anthony has established EliteMJ TV, which started with the original fan fiction series, Pokémon Next Generation. Set 10 years after Ash Ketchum won the Pokémon World Championship, the series follows Johto native Marc Masters, who hero-worships Ash, and travels across Kanto with his friends, Rachel Oak-Stone and Anthony Green.  So far, Marc has earned five gym badges from Forrest (Brock’s youngest brother), Rain (Misty’s cousin), Sgt. Sara (Lt. Surge’s daughter), Skorcha (Blaine’s granddaughter), and Erika.  The trio also battled foes in the form of Nastina, Earl, and Blurt, and Team Justice.

In addition to earning gym badges, Marc uncovered a threat that could destroy the Pokémon world: this threat’s name is Mew-Z.  This Pokémon is unlike any creature that inhabits this world; it is pure evil. This monstrosity was the brainchild of Team Rocket leader Giovanni and brought to life by the sinister Dr. Yung and Evice, using genes from Mew, Mewtwo, Zygarde, and unknown factors.  While it is powerful, Mew-Z has not reached its final form.

According to Looker, for Mew-Z to reach its full potential, it must absorb both Mew and Mewtwo in one hour. The creature has begun hunting down mythical and legendary Pokémon, as well as Zygarde cells, to boost its power. Both Jirachi and Tapu Koko have fallen victim to this monstrosity.  He is also growing a following and assisting him with his misdeeds are Evice and a mysterious, red-haired woman named Commander, who kidnapped both Ash Ketchum and Pikachu at the series’ beginning.

On the 425th edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar, Marcus J. Anthony spoke about the upcoming Pokémon: The Next Champion, introduced Pokémon NG Chronicles, and previewed the developments of Tales of Old Galar and Tales of War.

You can connect with Marcus J. Anthony on Instagram, Twitter (X), & YouTube!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Marcus J. Anthony Returns! appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Sarah Harralson to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Sarah is a Nashville-based country music singer-songwriter known for her honest storytelling, emotional lyrics, and memorable melodies. Music Connection Magazine described her music as “honest, bare-boned recordings that are authentic,” a quality that has helped her build a growing international audience.

Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Harralson began writing songs at the age of 10, inspired by her bluegrass musician grandfather. Growing up surrounded by country, rock ’n’ roll, soul, and pop influences, she ultimately gravitated toward country music for its storytelling tradition. After moving to Nashville to attend Belmont University, she quickly established herself as both a songwriter and a recording artist.

In 2015, she signed her first publishing deal with Raindrop Music, founded by Scotty Schultz (drums, Shooter Jennings), who also produced her country EP Watered Down Whiskey. Harralson later signed with Busy at Play Publishing, the company of Johnny Garcia (guitar, Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood), after co-writing the song “Radio Static.” Her releases have included the album Whiskey History (2022) and Outside the Lines (2023), on which she served as a producer on several tracks. Her music has charted 26 times on iTunes and earned nominations from the World Songwriting Awards, Josie Awards, and the International Singer-Songwriters Association.

In 2024, Harralson signed a multi-year publishing and label deal with Synapse Publishing & Entertainment, a woman-owned company. She is also collaborating with the company on a documentary project titled Women Behind the Lyrics.

As a performer, Sarah Harralson has opened for artists including Aaron Tippin and Bucky Covington and has appeared on festival lineups alongside Jason Aldean and Old Dominion. She has performed at notable Nashville venues such as The Bluebird Cafe, The Listening Room Cafe, and The Analog at Hutton Hotel, as well as the Gibson Stage on Today in Nashville on WSMV4.

Her music has also reached audiences through film and television placements, including the Hulu series Living for the Dead, the Norwegian television show Norge Bak Fasaden, and a Google Ireland advertising campaign. In 2023, she toured Eastern Europe, performing with an international symphony in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, with support from the America for Bulgaria Foundation.

Beyond recording and touring, Harralson is an active songwriter for other artists and a passionate advocate for music’s healing power. She volunteers with Musicians On Call, performing for hospital patients, and in 2024, she received the Michael Solomon Volunteer Musician Award after playing for more than 19,000 patients since 2015.

Harralson is also a producer, voiceover artist, children’s book author (Turtle Tears), and host of the iHeart Media podcast Takin’ a Walk Nashville, which has reached number two on the Apple Music podcast chart. Whether on stage, in the studio, or writing for others, she continues to build a career defined by authenticity, storytelling, and a belief in music’s power to heal. 

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sarah Harralson shared how Takin’ A Walk Nashville stands out in the podcast world and spoke about the upcoming highly anticipated documentary, Women Behind the Music.

For more information about Sarah Harralson, visit her website.

You can connect with Sarah Harralson on social media! Visit her Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube channels.

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By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a pleasure to welcome author and musician Ben Barbic to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

At 5-years-old, Ben was already recording his voice and never stopped. Music gave him peace, a way out of chaos, and a place to build himself. It became his sanctuary early in life, and it is today.  The Reggae and hip-hop artist have released over 100 songs with artists and producers worldwide, building a global catalog over more than a decade. His music is a direct reflection of my inner struggles and the force that drives me forward. It comes from pressure, rebuilding, discipline, and forward motion. This isn’t trend music. It’s life music—music for forward motion and for people refusing to stay down.

Ben Barbic’s work has connected him with collaborators across the global reggae, hip-hop, and soul community, including Craigy T (T.O.K.), Dan Konopka (OK Go), Ras Fraser Jr., E.N. Young, and Bobby Hustle, working alongside producers whose credits include artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher, Chris Brown, Vybz Kartel, and Popcaan.  He also mixes and masters music from my studio, Where Dreams Sail Studios, in San Jose, California.

Recently, Ben released his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain. From wild childhood rides on dirt bikes to nights in jail and the silent heartbreak of watching everything he loved burn to the ground, Ben Barbic has lived a life shaped by trauma, trial, and tenacity. Rise and Climb is his raw, unfiltered memoir of a boy who lost it all—twice—and found purpose through pain.

Growing up in the shadow of California redwoods and inside the roar of a motorcycle shop, Ben’s early life was defined by adventure and grit. But after losing his home to a wildfire, living in a trailer without running water, and battling panic attacks and loss, Ben turned to the only things that gave him power—music, movement, and resilience. Through cassette tapes, weight benches scorched by fire, and the soul of hip-hop and reggae, Ben began to rebuild. He became a nationally performing recording artist, an endurance athlete, and a proud father, husband, and entrepreneur.

Unflinchingly honest, heart-wrenchingly personal, and ultimately triumphant, Rise and Climb is a memoir and self-help book for anyone who has ever faced the fire and wondered if they could survive it. Ben Barbic shares his journey, his tools, and his motivations to show readers they can, too.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Ben Barbic spoke about the stories behind his most-streamed songs, such as “Next Level” and “These Dreams.” Ben also chatted about his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain.

For more information about Ben Barbic, visit his website.

You can connect with Ben Barbic on social media! Visit his Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast: Ben Barbic appeared first on Jake's Take.

Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Happy New Music Friday! We have a lot of music to unpack, so let’s get this party started!

Arirang has a lot of pieces of ear candy that will satisfy both veteran fans and newcomers alike. Welcome back, BTS! (Album cover property of BIGHIT Music)

Arirang by BTS

K-pop powerhouse BTS is back! Arirang, the group’s tenth overall studio album, marks the first time that RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook reunited after completing Korea’s mandatory military service. The septet recruited an all-star group of collaborators ranging from producers Diplo, Mike Will Made-It, and Ryan Tedder to songwriters such as Ant Clemons, Delacey, Kevin Parker, Sarah Aarons, and Sean Foreman to craft their comeback. Arirang has a lot of pieces of ear candy that will satisfy both veteran fans and newcomers alike. Welcome back, guys! B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Body to Body,” “FYA,” “SWIM,” & “NORMAL.”

Whatever’s Clever showcases Charlie Puth at his best, and I predict that the album will not only be a roadmap to aspiring recording artists but will play a role in this year’s music awards race. (Album cover property of Atlantic Records)

Whatever’s Clever! By Charlie Puth

There have been significant changes since Charlie Puth recorded his fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever! He sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the Super Bowl, and People reported that Charlie and his wife, Brooke, welcomed their first son, Jude, on March 23. The “Left Right Left” singer-songwriter opened his album to an elite group of collaborators, including music legends Kenny G, Kenny Loggins, and Michael McDonald, and rising stars Coco Jones, Hikaru Utada, and Ravyn Lenae. I believe that Charlie found the perfect musical partner in BloodPop, who assisted with the album’s production. Whatever’s Clever showcases Charlie Puth at his best, and I predict that the album will not only be a roadmap to aspiring recording artists but will play a role in this year’s music awards race. A-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Changes,” “Beat Yourself Up,” “Cry,” “Don’t Meet Your Heroes,” & “Home.”

Sexistential brings Robyn back to the forefront as not one of Sweden’s best, but one of the world’s top songstresses. (Album cover property of Konichwa | Young)

Sexistential by Robyn

Dance pop icon Robyn’s Sexistential is finally out! The “Dancing On My Own” performer created nine new songs that brought in music royalty, such as Klas Åhlund, Max Martin, and Oscar Holter, into the recording studio. Sexistential brings Robyn back to the forefront as not one of Sweden’s best, but one of the world’s top songstresses. A

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Really Real,” “Dopamine,” “Blow My Mind,” “Talk to Me,” & “Sexistential.”

“When It Comes to Loving You” by Cody Simpson

Australian international phenomenon Cody Simpson released new music for the first time in six years. The Masked Singer Australia champion dropped his latest single, “When It Comes to Loving You.” The song reminds me of classic synth-pop smashes like “This Kiss” and “Good Time.” Cody’s voice still has the power to make music lovers swoon, and I am looking forward to hearing more music from him! B+

“Say So” by Dan + Shay

Country music duo Dan + Shay returned to the music world with a haunting new song, “Say So.” Variety reported that the “Save Me the Trouble” performers’ new tune tackles a massive topic – mental health awareness. Dan + Shay, Jimmy Robbins, and David Hodges paid homage to their late friend and former head of Warner Chappell Publishing, Ben Vaughn, who sadly, unexpectedly took his life.  “Say So” is a powerful song that will touch the hearts of listeners everywhere. Always remember, “tomorrow is a brand-new day.” A

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please visit the Mental Health Hotline website or call 9-8-8.

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are some of the artists and bands that are shaking up the music world:

“Ride” by Arkells featuring Grouplove

9-time JUNO Award-winning band Arkells dropped their latest single, “Ride,” which is on their upcoming album, Between Us.  The group teamed up with GROUPLOVE for a superb anthem, “Ride.”  Listeners will be transported to a major city of their choice as they ride across the city from start to finish. “Ride” will definitely put a smile on your face.   B+

“Where Is My Husband!” by H3rizon

Star Search standouts H3rizon (Bernie, Gabby, and Tiara) made it all the way to the finals of the Netflix live talent competition. The trio released their cover of RAYE’s “Where Is My Husband!” with their newly signed record label – Epic Records/RZ3 Recordings. H3rizon’s harmonies are superb, and I believe that they are going to be forces of nature in the recording industry! A-

“Wasting Time” by Justin Maki

Japan-born, Canada-raised recording artist Justin Maki released “Wasting Time,” a slow-groove R&B ballad that transforms uncertainty into devotion. Justin worked on this song with friend and collaborator Josh Ellison. The song is a good start to his latest album, Technicolor Dreams, which is expected to be released in late June 2026. I am looking forward to hearing more from Justin in the coming months. B

“Hymne a L’Amour” by SCS Cello Ensemble

The SCS Cello Ensemble wraps up this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews. SCS stands for the Scandinavian Cello School, which is home to young elite classical music talents. The ensemble tackled “Hymne a L’Amour,” which French music legend Edith Piaf performed way back in 1949. The eight cellos do an impeccable job by honoring Ms. Piaf’s classic and infusing a new classical crossover sound into the love song. A

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By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a thrill to welcome back my friend, singer-songwriter Max Bartos, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Max is New York’s resident motherfolker! His folk and Americana music pairs introspective lyricism with anthemic folk-rock energy. As the frontman of Max Bartos and the Misfit Toys, he crafts songs rooted in storytelling and emotional honesty, with a modern acoustic sound shaped by influences such as Mumford & Sons and Noah Kahan.

His latest release, Waiting At The Crossroads (2025) captures a defining chapter in his artistic evolution, expanding his folk and Americana foundation with richer dynamics and a more confident, fully realized identity.

Fresh off a 30-date U.S. tour with The Misfit Toys, he continues to build momentum on the road. This spring, he joined acclaimed singer-songwriter Brendan James as direct support on a 14-date national tour from March 11 through April 1, further cementing his reputation as a compelling and emotionally resonant live act.

Recently signed with Noble Steed Music, Max is steadily carving out his place in the modern folk landscape through intentional songwriting, immersive performances, and a growing catalog that connects deeply with listeners.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Max Bartos shared the band’s origin story, the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs, and supporting Branden James.

For more information about Max Bartos, visit his website.

You can connect with Max Bartos on social media. Visit his channels on Instagram, Threads, TikTok & YouTube!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Max Bartos Returns! appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Planet Comicon Kansas City has wrapped up its 2026 edition! Thousands of pop culture lovers traveled to the Kansas City Convention Center to meet some of their favorite celebrities, creators, and cosplayers. They also attended panels, fawned at artwork, bought merchandise, and created countless memories.

As always, Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar  will share its take on the 2026 Planet Comicon Kansas City.

Here are my favorite photos from this year’s convention:

I also want to give a shoutout to the incredible staff members and volunteers who made the weekend memorable!

Planet Comicon Kansas City will return on April 2- 4, 2027!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel or The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast! 

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By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It’s the second Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar EXCLUSIVE of 2026!

I am so excited and honored to welcome content creator and entrepreneur Nick Uhas back to the podcast!

Reality TV veterans first met the former professional stunt skater on the polarizing Big Brother 15, where he was the second evicted houseguest of the season. After the show, Nick continued creating science content on his YouTube channel (formerly Nickapedia). Nick gained international prominence after appearing on the Australian version of The Today Show, performing three of his most popular experiments.  He continued to showcase his scientific knowledge on NBC’s The Today Show and The Dr. Oz Show.

In 2017, Nick auditioned for America’s Got Talent: Season 12. He had Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and former judge Heidi Klum inhale balloons filled with sulfur hexafluoride, recruited both Howie and Mel B to make elephant toothpaste on the Pasadena Civic Center stage, and had the longest-reigning judge mix hot water with dry ice. While he made it to Judge Cuts, Simon buzzed his act, and Nick’s time on the long-running NBC talent competition came to an end. He also spent time as the host of the popular Netflix glassblowing competition Blown Away for three seasons (2019, 2021, and 2022).

Throughout the years, Nick Uhas went viral on social media with his collaborations! From his various world-record elephant toothpaste experiments with David Dobrik and giant nitrogen rockets with Alex Mandel and TKOR, to creating deep-voice beatboxing with 80 Fitz and rocket skates with Steve-O, Nick’s content has accumulated over 109 million TikTok likes and 260 million views on YouTube.

For this Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar exclusive, Nick Uhas spoke about starting Uhas Media Company, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and Peak Lenin, and previewed a new product that could change the content creation game.

For more information about Uhas Media Company, visit their website.

You can connect with Nick Uhas on social media! Visit his Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s Exclusive: Nick Uhas Returns! (2026) appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Exclusive of 2026! I am very privileged to welcome two-time Emmy-nominated actress Sydney Mikayla to the podcast!

Sydney began her career in 2011, playing roles in various television shows, including Community, Criminal Minds, Fuller House, Hot in Cleveland, Parenthood, and School of Rock.  In 2019, she joined the cast of the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital (GH) as Trina Robinson. Throughout her time on the show, she shared scenes with Brook Kerr (Dr. Portia Robinson), Maura West (Ava Jerome), William Lipton (Cameron Webber), Avery Kristen Pohl (Esme Prince), and Emmy winners Nicholas Alexander Chavez (Spencer Cassadine) and Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks). She exited the soap in 2022, but not before earning two Emmy Nominations for the defunct Daytime Emmy Award category Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series.

In addition to appearing in live-action roles, Sydney Mikayla lent her voice to various animated series. She voiced Maya in Craig of the Creek, Phoebe Rose in Dew Drop Diaries, Andy Smith in Invincible Fight Girl, and Wolf in Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts.

Recently, Sydney Mikayla starred in Sarah T. Schwab’s haunting psychological thriller Crybaby Bridge. The film focuses on Samantha (Mikayla), a quiet and observant 16-year-old who is pregnant, adopted, and increasingly unmoored after her affluent parents relocate the family from Philadelphia to rural Pennsylvania. Intended to protect her from bullying, the move instead deepens her isolation. As long-buried secrets about her adoption surface, what begins as an intimate family drama spirals into psychological suspense where trauma and the supernatural uneasily collide.

On this exclusive episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sydney Mikayla spoke about her time on General Hospital, her voice-acting experience, and previewed Crybaby Bridge.

For more information about Crybaby Bridge, visit the film’s website.

You can connect with Sydney Mikayla on Instagram & Threads.

The post Jake’s Take’s Exclusive – Sydney Mikayla appeared first on Jake's Take.