By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome the fantastic Kara Alloway back to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

Kara began her media career after graduating from McGill University and landed at Allure in Los Angeles, where she worked as the Assistant West Coast Editor, reporting to editor Linda Wells. Her early work focused on beauty and fashion through a journalistic lens, pairing rigorous cultural reporting with a clear point of view.

She later returned to Canada to become Editor-in-Chief of Ingenue magazine, where the publication experienced record growth in circulation within the Canadian teen market. Alongside my editorial work, I hosted a daily fashion and beauty radio show, interviewing industry leaders including Stella McCartney, Laura Mercier, Phoebe Philo, Zac Posen, Diane von Fürstenberg, Bob Mackie, and Oscar de la Renta.

Reality TV fans first met Kara Alloway on The Real Housewives of Toronto before competing on The Traitors Canada: Season Three. These experiences deepened my understanding of unscripted storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera, and sharpened my interest in how narrative, performance, and public perception intersect.

Following her work on camera, Kara moved into unscripted development and production, signing with Electus in Los Angeles and later joining Hangar 56 Media, where I worked in executive production. Her debut novel, MOST HATED, draws from these intersecting worlds of media, performance, and public judgment, marking a shift toward long-form, character-driven storytelling. Across platforms, Kara’s work reflects a sustained interest in how stories are shaped, controlled, and contested, particularly for women navigating highly visible public spaces.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kara Alloway gave an in-depth rundown on her experience on The Traitors Canada and creating The Real Housewives of the Bible. 

For more information about Kara Alloway, visit her website.

You can connect with Kara Alloway on social media. Visit her Facebook & Instagram channels!

The post Jake’s Take Podcast: Kara Alloway Returns! appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 Judges’ Auditions returned after its Fourth of July celebration!

Since the Judges’ Auditions began, the entire on-air team (Host Terry Crews, Judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara & show creator Simon Cowell) has raced each other to award acts the Golden Buzzer, which entitled the recipients a spot in the Season 21 Live Shows.  Before the episode aired, Simon, Howie, and Mel B pressed both of their Golden Buzzers, leaving only Terry and Sofia with one, respectively.

Did Terry or Sofia use their Golden Buzzer tonight? If yes, who was the lucky recipient? Did any act receive any Xs? Listen on to find out!

If you have not already, check out my podcast with Liam, the Masked Singer Homie! We spoke about the season so far and revealed our favorite AGT: Season 21 acts!

The post Jake’s AGT Take – The Season 21 Halfway Point appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

 It is a privilege to welcome the iconic deaf swimmer and Reality TV personality Matt Klotz as a guest on The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Matt discovered his passion for swimming at an early age and went on to compete for Louisiana State University.  He went on to make his debut in the 2013 Summer Deaflympics in Bulgaria, where he claimed two gold medals in the men’s 100m and 200m backstroke, alongside a bronze medal in the men’s 400m individual medley event.  Four years later, Matt competed in the 2017 Summer Deaflympics in Samsun, Turkey, where he won five medals, including three gold. In 2018, Matt Klotz shattered two deaf world records during the US National Swimming Championship and was awarded the 2018 ICSD Deaf Sportsman of the Year by the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf.

He also competed in the 2019 ICSD World Deaf Swimming Championships in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the 2021 Summer Deaflympics in Caxias do Sul, Brazil. During the 2021 event, Matt took home nine medals, including three gold medals in men’s 50m freestyle, men’s 50m backstroke, and men’s 100m backstroke events.  Last year, Matt traveled to Tokyo, Japan, to compete in the 2025 Summer Deaflympics, where he won 10 medals, including five Gold, and broke three World Records (50m backstroke, 4×100 mixed free and medley relays.  Throughout his four Deaflympic appearances, he earned 32 total medals and is one away from the most in Deaflympic history.

In 2023, Matt Klotz made history as the first deaf and hard-of-hearing houseguest on Big Brother USA’s twenty-fifth season. Matt made it to 100 days, outlasted many of his fellow competitors, including Survivor legend Cirie Fields, and won one Head-of-Household competition, two VETOs, and $5,000 before losing the winning title to friend and ally Jag Bains. But he also made history as the first deaf and hard-of-hearing Runner-Up.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Matt Klotz spoke about competing in the Deaflympics, his bond with Cirie in the Big Brother 25 house, and his passion for fitness.

You can connect with Matt Klotz on social media! Visit his Instagram & TikTok channels!

The post Jake’s Take Podcast: Matt Klotz appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com 

Liam, who is known as the Masked Singer Homie, makes his first appearance on The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. He is a content creator, podcast host, and blogger from the UK who has been doing content online for over a year. Liam was inspired to do it after watching other content creators online review some of the shows he was interested in.

On this live edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Liam shares his origin story and gave his take on #AGT!

Here are my favorite AGT: Season 21 acts so far:

• Hundred Fingers (Magic group) – Howie Mandel’s 1^st Golden Buzzer
• Ruben Roldan (Parkour act) – Simon Cowell’s 2nd Golden Buzzer 
• Luke Trevino (Rapper) – Howie Mandel’s 2^nd Golden Buzzer
• James & Marina (Mentalists)
• Acro Canine Crew (Dancing Dog Group) – Terry Crews’ 1^st Golden Buzzer
• Herwan Legaillard (Aerialist / Sword Swallower)
• Kev Adams (Comedian)
• Geno Ploeger (Magician)
• Brook Lynn (Singer)
• Mackenzie Sol (Singer) – Mel B’s 2^nd Golden Buzzer

For more information about The Masked Singer Homie, visit his website!

The post Jake’s AGT Take – The Masked Singer Homie Visits! 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

Welcome to the Fourth of July edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews!

As you begin to prepare to celebrate America’s 250^th birthday, here are some of the new albums and songs that you might need to incorporate into your barbecues and fireworks playlists.

SWAG: LIVE FROM COACHELLA – Weekend I showcases Justin at his best vocally and as one of his generation’s top recording artists. (Album cover property of ILH Production Co. & Def Jam Recordings)

SWAG LIVE FROM COACHELLA (Weekend I) by Justin Bieber

Last Friday, Justin Bieber surprised his fan base and music lovers by dropping a live album from his first headlining weekend at this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The “Anyone” singer-songwriter primarily performed music from both SWAG and SWAG II, as well as several classic tunes, including “Beauty and the Beat.” He also brought out several of his collaborators, such as The Kid LAROI, Tems, and Mk.gee, throughout the show. As I listened to SWAG LIVE FROM COACHELLA (Weekend I), I may have judged SWAG & SWAG II too harshly. The live record showcases Justin at his best vocally and as one of his generation’s top recording artists. B+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “All I Can Take,” “SPEED DEMON,” “Go Baby,” “STAY,” & “Everything Hallelujah – Acoustic.”

“UNDER THE RHYTHM” by Adam Lambert

Adam Lambert will release his sixth full-length studio album, Adam, on July 10. His recent single, “UNDER THE RHYTHM,” is a haunting song that was co-produced by Pete Nappi, Jean Castel, and Tigri. I also enjoy the interpolation of ATC’s “Around the World (La La La La)” catchy chorus.  The song’s music video is brilliantly choreographed by former guest Richy Jackson and takes place in a real-life Arkham Asylum. “UNDER THE RHYTHM” has potential for being a song of Summer 2026. A

“Marry You Again” by Dan + Shay

Dan + Shay are a month away from releasing their seventh studio album, Young. The duo released their third single, “Marry You Again,” which they co-wrote with Matt Dragstrem and Rocky Block.  This tune is the song equivalent of Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s iconic 50 First Dates. “Marry You Again” is such a feel-good song that it will make fans smile and wish the “From the Ground Up” duo would crash their wedding to perform it! B+ 

“Another Drink” by Marshmello & Kelsea Ballerini

For the past several years, DJ Marshmello has been combining EDM and country music! After releasing songs with Kane Brown, Hudson Westbrook, and Thomas Rhett, he teamed up with longtime friend Kelsea Ballerini for “Another Drink.” This song is an infectious and delicious piece of ear candy!  “Another Drink” is perfect for a line-dance marathon and an excellent addition for both country and Top 40 radio and streaming playlists. A-

“Jealous Lover” by the Rolling Stones

Rock music legends The Rolling Stones will launch their twenty-fifth(!!) studio album, Foreign Tongues, next week! Their final pre-album-release song is “Jealous Lover,” co-penned by the iconic songwriting team of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. “Jealous Lover” is a superb song that showcases the iconic rock band’s signature swagger and Mick Jagger’s astonishing vocal performance. B+

“Little Miss Twain” by Shania Twain featuring Tanya Tucker

Two country music queens came together for an epic collaboration! Shania Twain invited Tanya Tucker to join her on the biographical “Little Miss Twain.”  The “Delta Dawn” singer gave me chills, and this song would make Shania’s mother (who predicted that her daughter would be the next Tanya Tucker) and fans of the “Up!” recording artist proud. B+

“Sick Ass Foo’s” by will.i.am featuring Lil Mr. E & Toxica

Will.i.am teamed up with Lil Mr. E of Foos Gone Wild and newcomer Toxica for the slick “Sick Ass Foo’s.” The “Mind Your Business” rapper produced the track and features infectious vocals along with sultry vocals from Toxica. “Sick Ass Foo’s” could be a sturdy candidate for one of 2026’s Songs of the Summer. A-

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are some recording artists and bands looking to shake up the music world.

FANTASYLAND is one of the best debut albums of 2026! (Album cover property of Mr. Fantasy Enterprises)

FANTASYLAND by Mr. Fantasy

The enigmatic Mr. Fantasy has shaken up the entertainment industry with his infectious, joyful personality and has released his first album. FANTASYLAND is one of the best debut albums of 2026! This album brilliantly showcases Mr. Fantasy as a recording artist by fusing funk and synth-pop in spectacular fashion. Bravo, Mr. Fantasy and your impeccable team, you have several hits on your hands! A+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Only Girl,” “Do Me Right,” “Mr. Fantasy,” “Catapult,” “Body Talk,” & “One Last Night.”

COMING OUT by Kevin Le Pennec

Singer and harpist Kevin Le Pennec has a rising presence in the contemporary folk and world music scene. The award-winning performer released his latest album, COMING OUT, which features 12 songs exploring love, identity, and the freedom to be oneself. Le Pennec’s beautiful arrangements and vocals would put listeners in a calming and relaxing mood. COMING OUT should be incorporated into Pride celebrations for years to come.  B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “L’amour d’un cordonnier,” “Deux pommiers,” “Pride Flag,” “Coming Out,” & “Dans la lune.”

“If You Need Me” by Duelly

Emmy winner Chad Duell, who fans know from his 15-year run as Michael Corinthos on General Hospital, has entered the EDM chat as Duelly with his first single, “If You Need Me.” I love the pounding, hypnotic beats, and for “If You Need Me,” being his first single, it sounds like a Grand Slam that should be featured on various music and radio playlists. I hope that Duelly continues his music journey because he has the potential to shake things up! A-

“Happy Tears” by Quail P

Quail P wraps up this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! The former college player from Macclenny, Florida, released his latest single, “Happy Tears,” produced by Grammy-winning producers Tricky Stewart and M.GeeZy. “Happy Tears” perfectly blended blues and gospel, delivering excellent results and a superb vocal performance from Quail P. B+

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The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of July 3, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

Happy Birthday, America!

To commemorate our nation’s 250^th birthday and the 95^th anniversary of its recognition as the official National Anthem of the United States, Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar is revealing the 25 memorable covers of Francis Scott Key and John Stafford Smith’s iconic tune, “The Star Spangled Banner.”

What was your favorite rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”?

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast: Memorable Star-Spangled Banner Covers appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Beaver Fleming to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Starting out in Knoxville, Tennessee, Beaver has traveled all over the world competing and winning events at skateboarding’s highest level. He creates multiple world tricks and is an official touring cast member of the Nitro Circus! With a heart and passion for helping others live their dreams, he frequently speaks at schools and youth groups, sharing a message of determination and perseverance and practical tools that have enabled him to succeed in his not-so-common career path.

Based in San Diego, California, also the action sports capital of the world, he can be seen at the skateparks honing his craft and partnering with local organizations on camps and lessons, unlocking the potential of the next generation. As a husband and father, staying committed to strong values that bring the family along for the ride, Beaver seeks to keep his wife, Gabrielle, and son, Oliver Knox, on the road as much as possible.

Beaver Fleming will be one of the athletes participating in the Nitro Circus 2.0 Tour presented by RAM Trucks. Co-founded by action sports icon and former America’s Got Talent: Extreme judge Travis Pastrana, Nitro Circus features elite athletes and world-class daredevils at the top of their game in Freestyle Motocross, BMX, Skate, Scooter, and everything in between. Nitro Circus features jaw-dropping stunts, top-tier athletes, and unstoppable energy that will wow fans of all ages. The all-new show is expected to include a record-breaking stunt performed by Adam Jones, Cody Matechuk attempting to do stunts by incorporating the Next Gen Ramp, and Ryan Bean’s attempt to execute a high dive off Nitro Circus’s world-famous gigantic 40-foot-tall ramp into a 3.5-foot body of water.

The tour is expected to entertain audiences in Birmingham, Alabama; Rochester, New York; Durham, South Carolina; South Bend, Indiana; and Knoxville, Tennessee, all throughout August.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Beaver Fleming shared how he got into skateboarding, overcoming obstacles, staying in the extreme sports arena, and previewed the Nitro Circus 2.0 Tour.

To find out if the Nitro Circus is heading to your city, visit its website!

For more information about Beaver Fleming, visit his website.

You can connect with Beaver Fleming on social media! Visit his Facebook, Instagram, & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Beaver Fleming appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

America’s Got Talent (AGT) is in the process of its search for its latest $1 million winner!

During the first three weeks of the Season 21 Judges Auditions, the judges (Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B) have fought at times to give acts the Golden Buzzer. So far, the former Deal or No Deal host has used both his Golden Buzzers on rapper Luke Taleno and magician troupe Hundred Fingers.

Meanwhile, Simon, Sofia, Mel B, and host Terry Crews have used the Golden Buzzer once!

Did any of them use it tonight? Did any acts receive a buzzer? Listen on to find out!

Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Judges Auditions continue!

The post Jake’s AGT Take – Novelty Acts Take Over Season 21 Auditions appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome singer-songwriter Alanna Sterling to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Hailing from Montreal, Alanna Sterling is a gender fluid artist who advocates for mental illness and the LGBTQ+ community. Battling bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, Sterling’s music has always been a vessel for self-expression used to navigate life’s adversities. Unbound by one genre, their diverse style spans rock, rap, pop, folk, soul, jazz, and more.  Through their heartfelt lyrics and music, they’ve connected with a global audience of dedicated fans and helped them through their darkest moments. Alanna’s journey is a testament to resilience and self-discovery, reflected in their polyamorous style, emotive lyrics, and captivating live performance. Turning sorrows into magical movements of song, Alanna Sterling reaffirms music’s transformative power as a catalyst for healing and change.

Alanna has co-produced three original albums thus far and has over a hundred songs yet to be recorded. Their latest album, Everything’s gonna be just fine, was recorded in under an hour in one take. To kick off this album, Alanna released their single “Goodbye,” accompanied by an iconic black-and-white music video that has amassed over half a million views. At the 2025 Capital Music Awards, Sterling was awarded Solo Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year for their title track “Everything’s gonna be just fine”.

In 2018, Alanna started streaming music on Twitch under the alias “MermaidUnicorn”. Since then, they’ve gained nearly 50k followers who tune in for their music livestreams.

Aside from their solo career, Alanna is also the lead singer and songwriter for the band Complicit. Complicit released their first album, FIV5 REASONS MY BRAIN SUCKS, in October 2025, which combines elder emo nostalgia with a new heavy twist.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Alanna Sterling spoke about their 2024 Paris Olympics residency, the stories behind their most-streamed songs on Spotify, and their latest single, “Down.”

For more information about Alanna Sterling, visit their website.

You can connect with Alanna Sterling on social media! Visit their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, & YouTube channels!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast: Alanna Sterling 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, everyone! I hope that you are enjoying the long weekend!  Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews is back!  We got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

DIRTY BLONDE is one of the best dance-pop albums of 2026 and could serve as a roadmap for future recording artists. (Album cover property of Bebe Rexha Music & Empire)

DIRTY BLONDE by Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha began a new chapter in her recording career with the release of her fourth studio album, DIRTY BLONDE. This record marks the first album from her new record company, Empire Distribution. The “I’m A Mess” singer-songwriter recruited an all-star group of collaborators, including Boaz van de Beatz, DJ Snake, Edwin Serrano, Jean Bapiste, Mitch Allan, the Punctual production team, and Sarah Hudson, to craft DIRTY BLONDE’s 13 tracks. She also reunited with frequent creative partner David Guetta on “Sad Girls” and with English dance music band Faithless on “New Religion.” DIRTY BLONDE is one of the best dance-pop albums of 2026 and will possibly serve as a roadmap for future recording artists. A+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “New Religion,” “Cike Cike,” “I Like You Better Than Me,” “Drink And A Little Love,” “One Day,” & “Sad Girls.”

I loved how Keith Urban and his production team, rearranged these classic tunes without altering their core elements. (Album cover property of Hit Red Records & MCA Nashville)

Flow State by Keith Urban

Country music icon Keith Urban did a first in his long career – he released an all-covers album, Flow State. The former American Idol judge and The Voice Australia mentor took some of yacht rock’s most iconic songs, ranging from Player’s “Baby Come Back” and Grover Washington, Jr.’s and Bill Withers’ “Just the Two of Us” to Seals & Crofts’ “Summer Breeze.”  He also welcomed John Mayer (“Guitar Man”), Little Big Town (“Magnet & Steel”), and Michael McDonald (“We Go Back”) as featured artists. I loved how “The Fighter” guitarist and recording artist, along with his production team, rearranged these classic tunes without altering their core elements. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Baby Come Back,” “Magnet & Steel,” “Just the Two of Us,” & “Summer Breeze.”

While B-Word has some strong material, such as “Happy 2 Be,” the Bon Jovi + Desmond Child-co-penned “Don’t Make Me Love U,” and a reimagined version of Meredith Brooks’ classic “B-Word,” the album is uninspiring! (Album cover property of Nice Life Recording Company & Atlantic Recording Corporation)

B-Word by Lizzo

Four years separate Lizzo’s recent two studio albums, Special (2022) and B-Word (2026). Between these two records, the “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready?)” singer-songwriter was in the headlines for numerous controversies that include allegations of sexual misconduct by former backing dancers in 2023 and applauding Pro-Hamas/Anti-Israel college encampment participants in 2024. The question that I pondered is whether it is possible to listen to Lizzo’s new album without separating the art from the artist. The answer is Yes. While B-Word has some strong material, such as “Happy 2 Be,” the Bon Jovi + Desmond Child-co-penned “Don’t Make Me Love U,” and a reimagined version of Meredith Brooks’ classic “B-Word,” the album is uninspiring! D

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Happy 2 Be,” “Don’t Make Me Love U,” & “B-Word.”

Dinner Party is full of fun and whimsical pop-rock tunes that are a breath of fresh air in today’s music market. (Album cover property of Capitol Records & Neon Haze Music Ltd.)

Dinner Party by Niall Horan

Niall Horan is back with his fourth studio album, Dinner Party. The X Factor UK finalist-turned-The Voice USA winning coach reunited with frequent collaborators John Ryan and Julian Bunetta and welcomed Amy Allen, Joel Little, Matt Zara, and Steph Jones into the family. Dinner Party is full of fun and whimsical pop-rock tunes that are a breath of fresh air in today’s music market. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Tastes So Good,” “Dinner Party,” “Little More Time,”  & “End of an Era.”

God Must Really Love Me showcases Tori Kelly’s superb songwriting and splendid vocals, uplifting listeners and music lovers everywhere. (Album cover property of Tori Kelly Publishing LLC & Epic Records)

God Must Really Love Me by Tori Kelly

Tori Kelly dropped her first gospel record, God Must Really Love Me. The “Should’ve Been Us” actress and songstress teamed up with top hitmakers Ammo, Dan Farber, Emily Warren, Forrest Frank, Jeff Gitelman, Nija Charles, Tommy King, to co-write and co-produce her sixth studio album. God Must Really Love Me showcases Tori Kelly’s superb songwriting and splendid vocals, uplifting listeners and music lovers everywhere. A-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Control,” “Fly,” “Pray for You,” “Dive,” & “Hurts So Good.”

“Over and Over” by Little Big Town

Little Big Town dropped their second single off their upcoming twelfth studio album, It’s a Dying Art. “Over and Over” could be the younger sibling of classic “Better Man.” I got the chills from Karen’s vocals, the catchy chorus, and superb electric guitar arrangements. I cannot wait for the rest of It’s A Dying Art to drop on August 28! B+

“I Knew It, I Knew You” by Taylor Swift

One of the biggest surprises that Walt Disney Records and Pixar gave fans was a new song recorded by another popular TS, Taylor Swift! The “I Knew You Were Trouble” recording artist reunited with frequent collaborator Jack Antonoff to co-pen and co-produce a new song for Toy Story’s latest chapter. “I Knew It, I Knew You” marks a return to the recording artist’s first genre – country music. The song was inspired by our favorite cowgirl, Jessie! The song is classic Taylor and would give listeners goosebumps. A-

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The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of June 19, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.