MARK STEINES, the award-winning journalist who cohosts the Emmy-nominated daily lifestyle show "Home & Family" for the Hallmark Channel, couldn't be happier about the 500th episode of his hit show, airing Dec. 26. Joining in the celebration is legendary funnyman Tim Conway and a special performance from "The Nutcracker" by the Long Beach Ballet. DJ Chris Carter preps to ring in the New Year mood and Debbie Matenopoulos gets the scoop from the stars of "Into the Woods," the highly anticipated movie-musical based on the hit Broadway show. With his casual charm and sense of humor, Steines sets his guests at ease for a thoroughly enjoyable time on "Home & Family."
What is it about the show you like the most?
I love doing this show. It's unlike any other I've seen. It's a one-stop shop... and what appeals to me most is that it allows me to be the most authentic I've ever been in my career. The guests who have come on our show have taught me so much about life. We have covered everything from parenting to cooking to finances to relationships to gardening and pets...We even play games that families can do to help build stronger bonds. This show really is about showing and teaching people how to enjoy life better.
You are a handyman but you're also a creative artist. I remember that desk you refinished with faux leather painting and a lot of detail. Is that kind of craft a passion of yours? Did anyone teach you?
I learned lots from my dad who was never afraid to take on a project. He would work with my brother and I - we were cheap labor! Along the way, something must have sunk in. I recall as a kid I was constantly building tree houses, perhaps inspired by "Swiss Family Robinson" (book and TV show)... I was always losing my dad's tools out in the woods behind our house.
Regarding your passion for photography, what motivated you to write your book "See The Light: A Passage to Sierra Leone"?
I was motivated by pure passion. I love photography and I wanted to find a way to make that work for others. I knew my boys' pediatrician made trips a few times a year and paid for it from donations and his own pocket. I felt a need to give back and approached Dr. Bob (Hamilton) with an idea to help spread word on his missions. No awards won, no awards needed. The joy and hard work was reward enough.
Is there another book in the works?
I just finished a book for a friend. It was a personal journey not for publication.
What are you looking forward to doing in the future?
I hope to be doing exactly what I'm doing now - making purposeful television that matters. I plan on watching my kids grow up and, with a little luck, meet somebody special.
Is there anything you're not good at?
I am horrible when it comes to plants. I kill everything in record time. Coming from Iowa, that's a disgrace. I'm a farmer's son for crying out loud! I treat plants like people and think they need eight glasses of water a day!
Would you do anything over in your career?
I wouldn't redo a thing. I've made my share of mistakes and miscalculations along the way, but the lessons learned and experience gained makes me the person I am today.
What do you wish interviewers would ask you but don't?
I think the question is "Why?" I think a lot of interviewers forget to dig deeper, and a simple question like that opens so many more doors for a dynamic conversation.
How do you view life in general? Do you have a specific philosophy?
Wow - big question. What comes to mind is something I learned from basketball coaching legend John Wooden. Back in the early '90s I asked him about his message to young players. He told me you only need two things to achieve lifelong happiness: the first is balance and the second is love. I've never let that fall off my radar.
Marina Anderson is an established actress, published author ("David Carradine: The Eye Of My Tornado"), publicist, personal manager (The MediaHound PR) and freelance writer specializing in entertainment. Her performing credits include starring and supporting roles in television shows, features films, webisodes and national commercials such as "The Mentalist," "Dexter," "Law & Order LA," "Seinfeld" and more. Learn more at MarinaAnderson.net or www.IMDB.com. Marina's passion is helping animals and she is an advocate for domestic and wildlife protection. Look for her next book (for children), "The Adventures of Lulu the Collie," which stars her beloved dog, Lulu, daughter of Lassie VIII. Contact Marina at ourwebemail@gmail.com or follow her on Twitter at @flyinggoddess.
