Author: Willie Pena

SkyBell Wi-Fi Video Doorbell

By Willie Pena • May 24, 2015

SkyBell is a Wi-Fi enabled video doorbell that comes with an app that allows you to see who’s at your door (and talk to them) through a live video feed to your iOS and Android mobile devices, even if you are in another country! Pretty cool idea, right? Here are some of the features: advanced […]

Tropic Spa Home Mist Tanning System

By Willie Pena • May 24, 2015

For those of us who want a bit of color in time for Graduation without exposure to dangerous UV rays, Tropic Spa Home Mist Tanning System promises a solution. The way the system works is pretty ingenious. You first charge the unit’s batteries (takes about half a day), and then load it up with six […]

Bring Out Your Inner Ballerina With Comfy Linge Ballet Flats

By Willie Pena • May 24, 2015

Feeling nostalgic for your ballet days as a little girl? Or maybe you just want some super comfy flats that are suitable for both just lounging around or a stroll around the mall? Then check out the ballet flats made by Linge Shoes! What we like about them: High quality, soft and supple leather Stretchy […]

The Haunting of Sunshine Girl – Interview with Paige McKenzie

By Willie Pena • May 19, 2015

The Haunting of Sunshine Girl is a Youtube phenomenon which follows the spooky happenings surrounding a teenager and her family in Oregon. We got the chance to speak with star Paige McKenzie at a recent event at Youtube Space LA. She just released the first “The Haunting of Sunshine Girl” Book and reveals what’s coming […]

Suicidal? Self-Harming? Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services Can Help

By Willie Pena • May 12, 2015

One topic which continues to rear its ugly head in the news and across social media is teen self-harm, which includes things such as suicide, cutting, intentional alcohol and drug overconsumption, and more. While bullying is often cited as a cause of the depression which leads to self-harm, the roots can stem from anything from […]

‘Every Last Word’ Prize Pack Giveaway from Disney Publishing

By Willie Pena • May 11, 2015

To win this great prize pack, courtesy of Disney Hyperion, keep reading! EVERY LAST WORD By Tamara Ireland Stone In stores June 16th About the Book: If you could read my mind, you wouldn’t be smiling. Samantha McAllister looks just like the rest of the popular girls in her junior class. But hidden beneath the […]

Klik Cinco 3 with Will Jay, Josh Levi and Cinco de Mayo Trivia!

By Willie Pena • May 6, 2015

We checked out the red carpet at this year’s Cinco, held at Avalon Hollywood. See how much these teen celebrities know about Cinco de Mayo trivia! Interviews: Will Jay, Josh Levi, Elise Luthman, Joey Luthman, Noland Ammon, Jay Jay Warren, Nick Azarian, Chandler Juliet, Serena Laurel, Faith Ziegler, Aliyah Moulden, Dylan Rey, Tristan Blaine, Urban […]

Fight Back Against Bullies with Krav Maga Expert Jarrett Arthur

By Willie Pena • April 27, 2015

Are we teaching teens and kids to become a nation of victims that cannot stand up for themselves? That’s one question we posed to Krav Maga instructor Jarrett Arthur, creator of the M.A.M.A. self defense system. Arthur provides some practical communication tips for dealing with bullies, and also covers some awesome self-defense techniques to use […]

Jakob Salvati Talks Faith, Superpowers and Runaway Cars in “Little Boy”

By Willie Pena • April 24, 2015

Jakob Salvati is the 11-year-old lead in superstar producer Mark Burnett’s (The Bible, Shark Tank, The Apprentice, Survivor) latest film, Little Boy, which opens today April 24th. The family film, directed by Smithsonian Institute Award-winning director Alejandro Monteverde, follows the story of Pepper Flynt Busbee (Salvati), whose father goes off to fight in World War […]

Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards Fun at Hollywood and Highland

By Willie Pena • March 28, 2015

So Nickelodeon’s Kids Choice Awards are happening this weekend, and to celebrate, Nick and Toyota partnered to set up some fun activities at Hollywood and Highland this week — so of course we went to check out the action and GET SLIMED! Scroll down for the video of our junior reporter Keira Pena getting just […]

Karmin Adds “Along the Road” to its Slate of Cool Music Videos

By Willie Pena • March 25, 2015

Pop/Rock duo Karmin, comprised of members Amy Heidemann and Nick Noonan and best known for their mega-hit “Brokenhearted” which was played everywhere, released a new music video last night for “Along the Road.” It’s a cool addition to a pretty funky collection of music videos from the pair, who recently parted ways with their label […]

Blake English from After Romeo Sings Johanna from Sweeney Todd

By Willie Pena • March 22, 2015

So we became fans of After Romeo after we interviewed them back in November (you can see that video at the bottom of this page), but we didn’t realize just how talented each individual member was. Take Blake English for instance. Not only can he dance and sing pop music, but he also has a […]

Meg V. Jones and #NotAStatistic

By Willie Pena • March 15, 2015

What do you do when life gives you a few hard knocks? You pick yourself up and keep going, while encouraging others to follow their dreams right along with you. At least that is what Meg V. Jones is attempting to do with her #notAStatistic campaign. According to Meg’s bio on her website, she has […]

A Matter of Respect with Linor Abargil & Jane Fonda

By Willie Pena • February 13, 2015

What is it going to take to stop sexual violence, especially against women? We tackle this issue by first talking with teens and community leaders at the San Diego Jewish Film Festival, plus the subject of the documentary Brave Miss World, Linor Abargil. We then visit CBS Studios for the One Billion Rising for Justice […]

Cameron Palatas & Pass the Light Premiere with Allie DeBerry

By Willie Pena • February 13, 2015

Michael Peña interviews Cameron Palatas, star of the brand-new faith-based film “Pass the Light,” opening today February 6th 2015. We then join Lisa-Marie Woods for the red carpet premiere at the iconic Arclight Cinema in Hollywood. Interviews: Cameron Palatas, Allie Deberry, Brendon Eggertsen, Jacob Houston, Lou Wegner, Rachael Kathryn Bell, Milena Govich, Malcolm J. Goodwin, […]

Laci Kay Runnin’ Free, 2015 Rose Parade, AKNU Rhythm is You

By Willie Pena • February 13, 2015

We go behind the scenes at Laci Kay’s “Runnin’ Free” video shoot first, and then bring you the highlights of the world-famous 2015 Rose Parade. We wrap up this episode with the uber-cool video for the incredibly catchy “Rhythm is You” by X-Factor alumni AKNU, you are going to want to dance when you see […]

Meet Jocelyn Arndt – Harvard University Student and Singer/Songwriter

By Willie Pena • January 26, 2015

Singer Jocelyn Arndt and her brother/co-writer Christian prove that artists can be just as comfortable in the classroom as in the recording studio. In addition to touring and promoting their brand new EP Strangers in Fairlyland, both are also busy pursuing their educations at the world-famous Harvard University. Jocelyn and Chris are collectively known as […]

Meet Breaker Novogratz, a Face to Watch

By Willie Pena • January 15, 2015

Breaker Novogratz is a 13-year-old who is no stranger to show business, being featured along with the rest of his family on such shows as Home by Novagratz and 9 by Design. Son of designers Cortney and Robert, he is starting to make his own moves after his family’s recent relocation to Los Angeles, signing […]

Teen Gym Etiquette – Do’s and Dont’s

By Willie Pena • January 7, 2015

Its the beginning of a new year, and you know what that means: NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS! Yay! This means a lot of teens are going to start heading to the gym to work on their fitness goals. Like anywhere else, there are certain things you just don’t do when working out, which you might not […]

83rd Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade with R5 and The Haunted Hathaways Cast

By Willie Pena • December 20, 2014

Teens Wanna Know hit the 83rd Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade to talk to several celebrities. It was quite a rainy day, but we made it out alive! Interviews: George Thorogood, Denise Austin, Erik Estrada, Laura McKenzie, R5 (Ross Lynch, Riker Lynch, Rydel Lynch, Rocky Lynch, Ellington Lee Ratliff), G.W. Bailey, Benjamin Flores Jr. (Lil P-Nut), […]

Looking Ahead Awards with Hilary Swank, Tia & Tamera Mowry

By Willie Pena • December 18, 2014

We were fortunate to cover the first ever Looking Ahead Awards, brought to the world by The Actor’s Fund. Highlights: Hilary Swank presented the Looking Ahead Parenting Award to her mom, Judy, and Tia and Tamera Mowry were presented the Education Award by their former “Sister Sister” co-star Jackee. Interviews: Hilary Swank, Judy Swank, Tia […]

Ballet RED & MAXSO

By Willie Pena • December 18, 2014

Teens Wanna Know attended the premiere of Ballet RED, a fusion of ballet and EDM created by Josie Walsh. Interviews: Josie Walsh, Jealous Angel, Elliot Gould, Lexee Smith, David Golshan, Caitlin O’Connor, Phoebe Price, Alexa Ferr, Shane Sparks, Lindsay Kay Hayward, Carly Robyn Green, Katherine McNamara, Patricia Ward Kelly We also spoke with up-and-coming recording […]

After Romeo, Cimorelli, Josh Levi, Lexee Smith & More

By Willie Pena • December 18, 2014

In this episode of TWK, we covered TWO great events: First is the 13th Annual Citadel Outlets Tree Lighting Ceremony where we spoke with After Romeo, Cimorelli, Jana Kramer, and Josh Levi. Following that we show you the action at Miss Behave Girls Runway Show and Talent Search, where we talked fashion with Lexee Smith, […]

Innovation Run with Laurie Metcalf, Jack McGee PLUS Alexa Ferr

By Willie Pena • December 18, 2014

TWK covered the Innovation Run earlier this year, which raised funds for a local Los Angeles middle school. We spoke with several celebrity supporters, including Jack McGee and Laurie Metcalf from “The McCarthys,” Singer Mandy Rain, Connor Price from “Being Human,” “General Hospital’s” Jimmy Deshler, and the voice of Jimmy Neutron Debi Derryberry. We also […]

Q&A With Nashville’s Gunnar Sizemore

By Willie Pena • December 15, 2014

Gunnar Sizemore is a young actor who already has some impressive credits under his belt. You might have heard his work as the voice of Ignacio in The Book of Life movie or seen him portray Micah Brenner on ABC’s Nashville — or if you are a fan of Disney’s Kickin’ It, you probably saw […]

Holiday Gift Idea: Cate & Chloe VIP Jewelry Box Subscription

By Willie Pena • December 7, 2014

It’s hard to resist the draw of the bling. Shiny stones and gleaming metal are especially prized during the holiday gift-giving season. And one company is making it easy, to give your jewelry-loving friends and family (or yourself) a monthly fix of some nice pieces at a very affordable price. Cate & Chloe offer their […]

Disney Animation Creates Another Winner With “Big Hero 6”

By Willie Pena • November 8, 2014

Walt Disney Animation Studios does it again. Continuing their energized creative streak after their smash hits Frozen and Wreck-It Ralph, the studio just released Big Hero 6 — and it doesn’t disappoint. The film, based on a heretofore little-known Marvel comic, centers around 14-year old robotics prodigy Hiro, who enjoys hustling others for cash at […]

Victoria Griffith Discusses Her New Book “Amazon Burning” + GIVEAWAY!!!

By Willie Pena • November 3, 2014

As a longtime journalist, Victoria Griffith has explored many diverse topics, including the Yanomami Indians, space exploration, and the human genome. Now she brings some of her life experience, including living in Brazil and exploring environmental issues, to present her first YA novel called Amazon Burning. We got to ask Victoria a few interview questions, […]

R5, Fifth Harmony, Lucy Hale and Sabrina Carpenter Headline The T.J. Martell Foundation 6th Annual Los Angeles Family Day

By Willie Pena • November 3, 2014

Pop-rock sensations R5, Fifth Harmony, Pretty Little Liars actress and singer Lucy Hale, and Girl Meets World’s Sabrina Carpenter took the stage at the T.J. Martell Foundation’s 6th Annual Family Day held at CBS Radford Studios in Studio City, CA on November 16th from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Teens Wanna Know attended this sold […]

Justine Dorsey Talks Collaborating with Sister Kerris and New Music

By Willie Pena • November 3, 2014

If you watched the recent Disney movie, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, you probably noticed a very catchy pop-rock track that played during the credits. What makes the song, called “Best Worst Day Ever,” even more notable, is that it was written and performed by one of the young stars […]

Meet Teen Country Singer Summerlyn Powers – Exclusive Interview

By Willie Pena • October 25, 2014

13-year-old singer Summerlyn Powers (well, she’ll be 14 in about a week) has just released her debut EP “Dixie Dust.” Produced by Andrew Rollins (ABC’s Nashville Soundtrack), the release features four tracks which this young talent from Fairhope, Alabama co-wrote with award-winning singer/songwriter Pam Tillis. Summerlyn’s first song, “Alabama Kinda Girl” was released when she […]

“From Start to Stardom” by Lisa London – Review

By Willie Pena • October 8, 2014

Thousands of teenagers come to Hollywood every year in the hopes of launching a successful show business career. Only a small handful ever establish themselves, despite so many possessing tremendous talent in acting, music, dance and related skills. So what is missing for the rest of them? Apart from the fact that there is an […]

Interview with Celebrity Mom and Rock Star Wife Jaclyn Stapp, Founder of CHARM (Children Are Magical)

By Willie Pena • October 6, 2014

By all accounts, Jaclyn Stapp is living quite a charmed life. She is an award-winning children’s book author, former beauty queen, spokesperson, model, mother of three children, and the wife of Grammy award-winning lead singer of rock band Creed, Scott Stapp. And recently, she added another accomplishment: founding a new non-profit organization for children aptly […]

“Keep Fresh, Stay Rad” 100 Cool & Funky Postcards Giveaway!

By Willie Pena • September 29, 2014

With everybody texting and tweeting these days, communication often lacks the personal touch.   A new set of postcards by a bunch of hip designers from both coasts can help bring some of that back, however. Keep Fresh, Stay Rad by Friends of Type is a set of 100 cards featuring epic designs and messages […]

Ariana Sloan and Spencer Owens Interviews

By Willie Pena • September 28, 2014

Check out our interviews with Ariana Sloan, who perfoms her new song “We Look Good In Pictures” LIVE, and actor/entrepreneur Spencer Owens. Oh, and we recently celebrated our 2nd Birthday…so some of our friends gave us a couple of birthday shoutouts…including the feisty “Granny B”

“Teen Nation Tour” Hits the Road with Anti-Bullying Message for Teens

By Willie Pena • September 14, 2014

A new tour is hitting middle schools, high schools and other venues starting this month, and it carries a strong message for teens: bullying is not cool. The Teen Nation Tour (TNT) is a 90-minute program which features up-and-coming recording artists from a variety of musical genres such as pop, country, and rock. In addition […]

“I Am Eleven” Review

By Willie Pena • September 10, 2014

Age 11 is a bittersweet time. It is an age where one is not yet jaded and can still maintain an optimism and idealism about the world, while also becoming faintly aware of how scary and unjust it can be. It is truly the last year of unbridled innocence, the last hurrah of being a […]

Josh Hutcherson’s “Straight But Not Narrow ” 3-on-3 Basketball Game – Field Report

By Willie Pena • August 28, 2014

Special Report By: Hayley Grimshaw (all pics courtesy Hayley) Anti-bullying teen advocate for TRUCE: promoting cyber-kindness What does a basketball game have in common with “The Hunger Games”? The answer: Josh Hutcherson! The popular movie star of “Journey to the Center of the Earth”, “Zathura” and, of course, as Peeta Mellark in ‘The Hunger Games” […]

Five Surprising Things You Have in Common with Celebrities

By Willie Pena • August 17, 2014

The following is a guest post by Mandy Wilkins. Alright, we admit it: we’re obsessed with celebrities. Whether they’re strutting down the red carpet or gracing the front of magazine covers, we like to follow their every move. But, once we strip away all their glitter, money, and fame, it turns out that celebrities are […]

The Celebrity Experience, Michael Jackson Flash Mob, Asus MeMO Pad 7 Review

By Willie Pena • August 13, 2014

In this episode we visit The Celebrity Experience where interview Director/Producer George Caceres, “Shake It Up!’s” Caroline Sunshine, “Lab Rats” Spencer Boldman, “The Fosters” Ashley Argota, and “Ravenswood” Luke Benward. We also check out a flash mob honoring Michael Jackson and review the Asus MeMO Pad 7. George Caceres IMDb: http://imdb.com/name/nm3900083/ Website: http://georgecfoundation.com/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeCaceres […]

$50 Prep Sportswear Giveaway from Teens Wanna Know!

By Willie Pena • August 11, 2014

What better way to start the school year off than with some free sports gear? Well, enter our EZ photo caption contest below and you could be a winner! Prep Sportswear is giving away $50 in customized sports gear perfect for back to school. They have two cool new collections this season, including their Tonal […]

How to Break Up With Mark Zuckerberg (and Other Social Media Stalkers)

By Willie Pena • August 5, 2014

Guest Post by Emma Fuller, Omlet At first, Mark seemed like the perfect guy: He “shared” regularly, “checked in” often, kept you “fed” with the latest news, and paid attention to what you “liked.” But before you knew it, Mark began to change: He invaded your privacy, started keeping tabs on everything you did, he […]

Every Witch Way’s Melissa Carcache Throws Party for Hospitalized Miami Kids

By Willie Pena • July 16, 2014

Melissa Carcache, who plays school nurse “Lily” on Nickelodeon’s hit television series ‘Every Witch Way’, showed her non-witchy ways at a recent special premiere screening of the show for hospitalized kids at Miami Children’s Hospital. In addition to showing the premiere of the 2nd season, she delighted the kids by signing autographs and posing for […]

Perfect Bars – Tasty, Wholesome Nutrition From a Family-Owned Business

By Willie Pena • July 5, 2014

Let’s face it. A lot of the food which is mass-produced by large conglomerates is simply not good for you and only intended to addict your taste buds while enriching owners. Just walk down the center aisles of any supermarket and you will see tons of artificial colors, synthetic preservatives, massive amounts of refined sugar […]

Rising Teen Country Star Brittany Ray Interview

By Willie Pena • July 3, 2014

We were recently introduced to an outstanding teen singer whose vocal talent belies her young age. Her voice is so polished and airplay-ready that we wouldn’t be surprised if she isn’t all over country/pop radio within the space of a year or two. Yes, its that good. Meet Brittany Ray. First off, tell us a […]

Kayley Stallings CD Release Party & Earth to Echo Review

By Willie Pena • June 28, 2014

We hit Hollywood for another red carpet party, this time to celebrate Kaley Stallings CD release. Plus, catch our host Michael M. Peña just as he steps out of the theater after watching a special preview of “Earth to Echo.” Interviews: Kayley Stallings, Eric Zuley, Ashley Argota, Meeghan Henry, Samantha Elizondo, Matthew Jacob Wayne, Elise […]

Power of a Dream Music Festival to Hit Fresno August 30, 2014

By Willie Pena • June 12, 2014

Ventura County celebrities Sade Champagne and Lisa Lewolt are partnering up with the Grizzly Booster Club to launch, the first ever “Power Of A Dream Music Festival at the Fresno Save Mart Center in Fresno CA., Saturday August 30, 2014 from 6pm-10pm, a charity event to raise funds for the expansion project, a field for […]

Travis Miller Seeks to “Shine” With New Album

By Willie Pena • June 12, 2014

Pop/R&B artist Travis Miller has released his debut full-length album “Shine” today. For those unfamiliar with him, his voice sounds a bit like Justin Timberlake meets Robin Thicke, without being a copy of them. He has his own signature, and leans more towards soul than pop. While there are a few tracks that you can […]

Autumn de Forest Interview – Young Prodigy Artist Inspires and Gives Back

By Willie Pena • June 7, 2014

Autumn de Forest is a remarkable 12-year-old girl who just happens to be a world-renown artist, selling her first piece for $1,000 at age seven. She has sold considerably more since then, and has been featured on the Discovery Channel’s “Genius Kids,” the “Today Show” on NBC, and the “Wendy Williams Show,” among others. In […]

2nd Nautica Oceana Beach Party w Miranda Cosgrove, Drake Bell, Ted Danson

By Willie Pena • June 3, 2014

Teens Wanna Know hit the beautiful sands of Santa Monica to join Miranda Cosgrove and other celebrities in raising awareness about the need to curb ocean pollution, over-fishing, and other destructive actions. Interviews: Miranda Cosgrove, Ted Danson, Jenna Ushkowitz, Drake Bell, Ashlee Keating, Angela Kinsey, Angela Sun Miranda Cosgrove IMDB: http://imdb.com/name/nm1388927/ Website: http://mirandacosgrove.com/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/MirandaCosgrove […]

“Color Me Girl Crush:” Teen Coloring Book for Fashionistas

By Willie Pena • May 30, 2014

We recently received a review copy of “Color Me Girl Crush” by Mel Elliott, who has written “Color Me Swoon” and “Color Me Good:Ryan Gosling.” In her latest book, published by Penguin and releasing on June 3rd, the author has put together a set of illustrations depicting the most influential women in popular culture, including: […]

Cute Summer Outfits and Accessories for Tweens and Teens (girls)

By Willie Pena • May 27, 2014

With Memorial Day celebrations out of the way, its time to focus on summer. And this includes summer fashion! Here are some select cute summer outfits for both tween and teen girls, with a few modeled by our very own junior red carpet interviewer Keira Peña! The Daisy Petal girls party tee, shown above in […]

American Idol XIII Finale Interviews with Caleb Johnson, Jena Irene, Harry Connick Jr & Keith Urban

By Willie Pena • May 24, 2014

Teens Wanna Know covered the American Idol XIII finale with powerhouses Caleb Johnson and Jena Irene (Asciutto) to reveal just what it is like for these young performers on the most important night of their careers. Interviews: Caleb Johnson, Jena Irene, Harry Connick Jr., Scott MacIntyre, Matt Hicks, Ben Briley, Mikalah Gordon, Terry O’Quinn, Keith […]

Autumn Rose – Interview with Teen Author Abigail Gibbs & Book Review

By Willie Pena • May 20, 2014

It must be nice to wake up everyday as Abigail Gibbs! “Autumn Rose” is the 2nd installment of the “Dark Heroine Series” by the British teen author. The first book in the series “The Dark Heroine: Dinner With a Vampire” was a resounding success on the Wattpad platform, which led to Gibbs landing a six-figure, […]

Vampire Academy Movie Blu-Ray and DVD Hits Stores May 20 – Movie Review

By Willie Pena • May 18, 2014

Anchor Bay Films and The Weinstein Company’s PG-13 rated VAMPIRE ACADEMY is hitting stores on May 20, 2014. The movie, available on BLU-RAY, DVD and digital download, is based on the Vampire Academy book series by New York Time best-selling author Richelle Mead, directed by MEAN GIRLS helmer Mark Waters and stars the relatively unknown […]

Allie’s “Wake” Playlist

By Willie Pena • May 15, 2014

By Allie Costa I love music. I’m liable to burst into song at any given moment (and yes, I take requests!) Even when I don’t have music playing on the radio, there’s still music playing in my mind. So it’s no wonder that I like creating playlists for characters and shows I’m working on and […]

Interview with Kaylee Rutland, Teen Country Music Singer

By Willie Pena • May 13, 2014

Kaylee Rutland is an inspiring teenager who is making her dreams come true. She recorded her first EP in Nashville in 2012, and her video for “Into The Circle,” featuring Colt Ford and Jamie O’Neal, has been viewed 1.5 million times on YouTube, leading Billboard Magazine to name her one of the top 10 country […]

Publicity Secrets with ZTPR!

By Willie Pena • May 13, 2014

The world of Hollywood publicists can be mysterious to the uninitiated. In this episode of Teens Wanna Know, Michael M. Pena talks to Zack Teperman, president of ZTPR, who lifts the veil on exactly how publicists get their clients all that exposure you see in the press. Want to join this face-paced and fun industry? […]

Sloane Morgan Siegel Interview

By Willie Pena • May 13, 2014

The star of Gortimer Gibbon’s Life on Normal Street stopped by TWK studios to talk about his burgeoning career and his encounters with a cannibal, 25 lb bullfrog. Sloane Morgan Siegel IMDb:http://imdb.com/name/nm4470846/ Webpage: http://sloanemorgansiegel.com/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/sloanesiegel Twitter: https://twitter.com/sloanesiegel Instagram: http://instagram.com/sloanesiegel