In this gripping episode of Everything is Personal, host Len May dives deep with legendary Hollywood writer, producer, and master storyteller Alan Katz. Best known for shaping the cult classic Tales from the Crypt, Alan opens up about the wild ride of building an iconic franchise, then losing it all. But this isn’t just a story about fame. It’s about hitting rock bottom, battling depression, and finding a second act through vulnerability, reinvention, and podcasting. From the glitz of Hollywood to the darkness of personal struggle and the healing power of storytelling, Alan’s journey is raw, hilarious, and profoundly human. Whether you’re a fan of horror, Hollywood, or healing—this episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the art of never giving up.
Chapters
00:10 – Introduction & Guest Welcome
01:00 – Breaking into Hollywood & Climbing the Mountain
04:30 – Film vs. TV: Where Writers Really Belong
06:00 – Growing Up in Baltimore & Early Inspirations
09:00 – First Breaks & Meeting Producer Gil Adler
10:30 – The HBO Era: Tales from the Crypt
18:00 – Creating the Crypt Keeper’s Voice & Personality
27:00 – Trauma, Secrets, and Inner Struggles
36:00 – Healing, Storytelling, and Self-Rediscovery
41:00 – Behind the Scenes of Bordello of Blood
55:00 – The Fallout & Split with Gil Adler
1:02:00 – How TV and Streaming Changed the Industry
1:06:00 – Why Podcasting is the New Storytelling Powerhouse
1:09:00 – Final Reflections on Creativity & Resilience