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THE STAR SCOOP:
Hi Mark! We’re so grateful that you’re taking the time to give us the scoop on “Home and Family.” How did you come to be involved in “Home and Family?” What piqued your interest?

MARK STEINES:
I was in London on assignment when I got a call from my manager telling me about this show that was coming back to television.

I was told legendary producer Woody Frasier was resurrecting the program he had made a hit back in the 90’s. I met with Woody and Michelle Vicary of Hallmark over a 3 or 4 hour lunch an we hit it off.

I don’t think we stopped talking. The lively conversation ended with a hand shake and promise to send me a highlight reel of the show back in the 90’s.

I hadn’t watch the show back then and was happy I didn’t because I wanted to have a fresh take on it. About a minute into the highlight reel I knew I needed to do this show. It was different, casual, informative, entertaining and about family.

I was very much attracted to the “infotainment” aspect of the show and the humor. I felt that this show would allow me to access an entirely different skill set that I wasn’t able to approach while at ET.

THE STAR SCOOP:
What do you think draws people to a show like “Home and Family?” Is this a show you’d watch at home with your wife/family?

MARK STEINES:
What I love about this show is that we really do have a lot of fun and I think people who watch like to see people having a good time.

Laughter is contagious and we know how to have a good time. We also know how to inform people in an entertaining kind of way which keeps them around for 2 hours a day.

THE STAR SCOOP:
What can viewers expect in the upcoming episodes?

MARK STEINES:
I don’t anticipate any big changes in season 2. We are adding some permanent family members who contribute to our show on a much more regular basis. Our viewers have come to know our family so there is a comfort level already built in as we get the new season underway.

We are planning on building on the things that worked well and resonated with our audience. We will also look to reach out to connect with our viewers even more and getting them directly involved with the show.

THE STAR SCOOP:
There are so many amazing stories on “Home and Family.” Which ones stand out the most to you so far?

MARK STEINES:
We have addressed so many subjects and tackled so many issues on our show that it is impossible to single out one over the other, but the ones that seem to move me the most are the ones that showcase the human spirit.

We have had guests who have shared their incredible stories with us, wether it was how they came to accept living life in a wheel chair after a horrible accident, or how they battled a terrible disease head on and beat the odds.

As a journalist/storyteller I’ve always gravitated to those kinds of stories…..the ones were we celebrate a community for coming together to help those in need….I don’t know why, but the extended hand of help intrigues me.

THE STAR SCOOP:
Are there any particular topics you would like to see covered on the show?

MARK STEINES:
I personally enjoy building things and repurposing old discarded items and giving them new life. We are making a effort to keep that pattern going, but finding items that the mothers and wives who are watching can do and not be intimidated.

I teach my boys how to use all my power tools and not to be intimidated by them. They have grown to understand how the right tool can make or break the job. I would very much enjoy sharing that with our audience. I would also enjoy sharing my passion for photography, however that is a little more complicated.

THE STAR SCOOP:
What other projects do you have in the works?

MARK STEINES:
I am always looking for ways to expand my photography. I enjoy that more than most people realize. I’m also passionate about raising my kids and living a healthy lifestyle.

I recently lost my father and being with him as he drew his last breath made me realize how quickly and easily life and slip away from us, so living with a lot of passion has moved back to the forefront of my conscientiousness.

THE STAR SCOOP:
What advice can you offer to young, aspiring journalists?

MARK STEINES:
Be factual. Be curious. Be unbiased. Its a tough profession these days with over saturation and it doesn’t pay well. Don’t get into it for the money. There can be tremendous sacrifice so be prepared for that.

THE STAR SCOOP:
Thanks so much for taking the time! Last question, and we have to ask, who has been your favorite celebrity to interview and why?

MARK STEINES:
Cher. Why, because she is Cher!

Plus, check out info on this charity event Mark is emceeing!

Artworks For The Cure is presented by American Airlines and the Universal Music Group. Other major event sponsors include Accenture, Code Advisors, Live Nation, Mediacom, Microsoft, Spinlet, and the Wasserman Foundation.

Artworks For The Cure benefits the T.J. Martell Foundation to continue its funding of innovative cancer research at twelve top research hospitals in the United States. In Los Angeles, the Foundation funds pediatric cancer research at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

The event is open to the public. Tickets may be purchased online at: www.2013artworks.org or by calling 310-449-7627. Additional information on the Awards Dinner, tax-deductible sponsorships and donations can also be found on this website.

TWO-TIME GRAMMY WINNING SINGER SONGWRITER COLBIE CAILLAT CONFIRMED TO HEADLINE AND MARK STEINES TO HOST!