All Episodes (297)

1. 1. Maestra and Their Efforts to AMPLIFY Women & Non-binary People in the Musical Theater

   As a special episode for Women's History Month, music director Julianne Merrill and broadcast technology director Jessica Ryan join the podcast to talk about one of WINMI's favorite organizations, Maestra, and their annual Amplify concert.  Maestra was founded by composer Georgia Stitt (who has been on this podcast before), and Tony Award nominee Kate Baldwin (also a former guest) hosts the third annual evening of music by Maestras like Cyndi Lauper, Debra Monk, Brenda Russell, and Lucy Simon. T

   Mar 20,2023 51:43
2. 2. Lisa Howard on Originating Roles on Broadway and the Unjust Stigma Associated with Plus-Sized Actors

   As collaborative as theater can be, there are sometimes when the creative process can be more like herding cats—with no clear direction as everyone tries to get on the same page…hopefully. And that’s Broadway or community theater, a web series or major motion picture. I’ve certainly been in shows that started off a bit chaotic but got better as the cast and creative team could unify around a singular vision for the show. But today’s guest has a few stories about the various ways shows come toget

   Mar 13,2023 49:10
3. 3. Sharon Catherine Brown (Part 2) - Performing in Milestone TV Shows & Knowing Our Worth as Actors

   One of the important aspects of Black History Month is that it’s not just about what happened 50, 100, 200 years ago. It’s also about the present, the world around us and what’s happening now to bring greater representation and celebration of African-American accomplishments and contributions. Of course, we should recognize and respect what has come before us. Black history is an integral part of American history and culture. But it’s also important to recognize the lives and experiences of thos

   Feb 27,2023 52:03
4. 4. Sharon Catherine Brown (Part 1) - Born to Be a Drama Queen in Her Broadway Family

   One essential ingredient to any actors career is experience. It allows us to develop our craft and hone our skills over time. With each performance, we refine techniques, learn from mistakes, and develop greater emotional and psychological depth in our performances. But this growth in credibility and authenticity in acting comes as much from our offstage lives as it does from our onstage experiences. And today’s guest shares both personal and professional challenges that have shaped her not only

   Feb 13,2023 55:21
5. 5. Blake Stadnik from ”This Is Us” Doesn’t Let His Disability Stop Him Onstage or in Life

   Welcome to Season 7!One of the joys that can come from being an actor, besides getting to perform on stage, and feeling the energy of a live audience, is that of working with other wonderful actors and collaborating on stage as well as building friendships off stage. Throughout the past six seasons, I’ve had the pleasure of bringing on some of these wonderful castmates, and not only share with you their stories, but I to get to learn a little more about them as well.This past year I was cast in

   Jan 30,2023 57:51
6. 6. Welcome to Season Seven!

   Welcome to Season Seven of Why I’ll Never Make It, an award-winning theater podcast. After a few weeks off, I’m so excited to be back for another year of great guests and wonderful discussions. Some of these artists are just getting started in the business, while others are Tony-nominated actors and directors. I’m your host and producer, Patrick Oliver Jones, an actor and singer living in New York City with more than 30 years of experience. This season I’ll be talking with guests every other wee

   Jan 23,2023 02:53
7. 7. Bettering Our Mindset with ”Dr. Drama” Alisa Hurwtiz, PsyD (REWIND)

   Each of us has an inner voice that can be very loud and persuasive. Hopefully, it’s pushing us to do better and reminding us of all we can accomplish. But sometimes it leads us to believe that the theater industry is too hard and constantly tells us we’re not good enough or don’t deserve an amazing acting career.With an inner critic like that it’s gonna be really difficult to motivate ourselves to keep going, to go to that next audition. The very title of this podcast is an example of the ways i

   Jan 16,2023 42:47
8. 8. Bettering our Acting Training and Practice with Brooke Macnamara (REWIND)

   Happy New Year! Thank you for listening to Why I’ll Never Make It!The next season is just a few weeks away and I wanted to start off the year by going back to conversations I had to with two psychologists in 2020. I think their insights are a good reminder for us as we continue to grow and better ourselves as artists.The first one you’ll hear from is Brooke MacNamara, Ph.D. We talk about the amount of training, coaching, and practice it takes to continually hone our craft as performers. One ofte

   Jan 10,2023 55:22
9. 9. A Look Back at 2022

   Happy birthday and thank you for joining me as Why I’ll Never Make It turns 5 years old today! It was on December 28, 2017 that this theater podcast began from very humble beginnings and has slowly gained attention and even some accolades in the past five years of talking with actors and creative professionals.There’s a certain kind of magic in the art of theatre, as the Tony award-winning actor Brian Stokes Mitchell once said, ”It has the power to transform an audience, an individual, or en mas

   Dec 28,2022 31:18
10. 10. Angela Lansbury and Her Bumpy Road to MAME on Broadway

    Back in October of this year we lost a beloved star of the stage and screen, Angela Lansbury. Her performing career spanned 80 years in which she received six Tony Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, and one Laurence Olivier Award. And despite her years in television and movies (her last film role was Glass Onion in 2022), theater was always her first love, having appeared in 14 Broadway productions and four national tours.But as you’ll hear in this special episode (with a big help from fellow podc

    Dec 21,2022 17:24
11. 11. Jeremy Stolle Shares 15 Years at Phantom of the Opera and the Struggles He Faced Getting There

    Back in September of this year, news came out that both shook and shocked the Broadway theater world: Phantom of the Opera will be closing and have its final performance in February 2023. After 35 years, the longest running Broadway show in history, this iconic show was going to be leaving the Majestic Theater for good. That closing date has since been updated to April 16th, no doubt due to the increase in ticket sales after that initial closing announcement, nonetheless the end of an era is nea

    Dec 12,2022 56:16
12. 12. Simon Tam and The Slants Battle Asian Stereotypes and the Supreme Court

    During the past 30 years there’s been a growing list of pop and rock musicians trying their hand at musical theater. And they range in style and scope from artists like Cindy Lauper, Dolly Parton, and Elton John to rock bands like The Who, Green Day, and The Go-Go’s. Well, today’s guest has been venturing into musical theater and is from a band you may not have heard of, but their name is certainly one you’re not likely to forget: The Slants.Simon Tam, founder and bassist of the all-Asian rock b

    Dec 05,2022 51:59
13. 13. Ben Curtis Found Fame as the Dell Dude But Found Himself as the Wellness Dude

    Do you want to be famous or do you want to be an actor? Very few truly achieve both. For most of us it’s a choice, and the direction we choose impacts the roles and opportunities that we pursue going forward. Today’s guest has been presented with both during his career and came to discover which one mattered more to him. Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part 3)In the early 2000s, Ben Curtis was training to be a serious actor at NYU, but one commercial audition for Dell computers compl

    Nov 28,2022 48:44
14. 14. Elaine Romanelli Battles Criticism and Self-Doubt as a Singer and Songwriter

    One of the greatest obstacles to becoming a better performer is thinking you aren’t good enough, that the dreams and aspirations you have for yourself are just too far out of reach and beyond your capability. So in today’s episode we explore that feeling with someone who knows all too well the crippling effect of self-doubt and self-criticism.Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part Two)Elaine Romanelli is a singer, songwriter, and actress who has performed off Broadway and on radio as w

    Nov 21,2022 59:01
15. 15. Jules Helm Explores Personal Growth and Self-Discovery On Stage and Off

    Every November, as the weather and leaves continue to change and we enter a season of Thanksgiving as well as gift-giving, this podcast sets aside a few episodes to focus on how we can make our lives and our careers better and more fulfilling. And so we begin the third annual presentation of this enlightening series...Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part One)You’ll hear from artists, coaches, and performers and how they have a found balance between their on stage and off stage lives,

    Nov 14,2022 54:48
16. 16. Dena Hammerstein, from Actress & Writer to Producer & Founder of Only Make Believe (REWIND)

    Back in 2008, I made the move to New York City to finally pursue my acting career here. And after a couple of years of doing regional work, though, I was looking for more opportunities that could keep me in the city. So I went to the Actors Fund (now called the more generic Entertainment Community Fund and featured on previous episodes), and at that time they offered assistance to actors looking to beef up their non-performing resume. I talked with someone about places I’d work at in the past, a

    Nov 07,2022 45:19
17. 17. Joe DiPietro and How Theater Has Made a Difference in His Own Life and Others

    For the past 23 years, a non-profit theater company called Only Make Believe has been creating and performing live in-person and virtual interactive theater for children in hospitals, care facilities, and special education programs. It started here in New York City but has since opened an office Washington, DC with some outreach in other cities as well. In the next episode you’ll hear an encore presentation of my conversation with founder Dena Hammerstein. But for today, I’m sitting down with on

    Oct 31,2022 51:04
18. 18. Muriel Miguel and the Art of Story Weaving Her Native American Experiences

    The art of theater is really just storytelling, and the stories that are told from region to region often come from within those communities and offer a shared experience on the stage. Broadway illustrates this with musicals like In the Heights, Allegiance, and The Color Purple—even shows like Noises Off and 42nd Street provide a backstage glimpse of the theater community. Well, today’s guest is here to share her stories as a Native American, and the specific experiences that have helped her fos

    Oct 24,2022 48:27
19. 19. Ricky Schroeder and Why Booking a Show Doesn’t Always Mean You’ve Booked the Show

    The life of an actor is often a cross between a seesaw and a rollercoaster. Sometimes it’s as simple as an up or down choice between opportunities and trying to find the balance in our life and work. While other times we’re just along for the ride (especially when it comes to auditions and callbacks), going in ways we can’t control and just doing our best to make the best choices in the moment. And today’s guest reminds us how unpredictable that rollercoaster be and that finding balance can ofte

    Oct 17,2022 47:07
20. 20. Kate Baldwin Looks for Deeper Creative Purpose Than Just Performing 8 Times a Week

    For only the second time in my career, I’m doing back to back shows at the same theater. First there was Anne of Green Gables this past summer and now there’s 42nd Street here at the Goodspeed Opera House. It’s a show I’ve done before a few years back and in the same role as well, only this time there’s a lead producer who’s working to bring this production (and hopefully its cast) to Broadway. It has Carina-Kay Louchiey as the young starlet Peggy Sawyer and Max von Essen as the hard-nosed direc

    Oct 10,2022 47:13
21. 21. Marc Acito and the Steep Learning Curve from Theater Writer to Filmmaker

    Sometime before the pandemic, I auditioned for a small off-Broadway production of the Lerner and Loewe musical The Day Before Spring. It was at the York Theater, which is known for reviving or refreshing older musicals that may not be done very much. I wasn’t cast in that particular production, and like most failed auditions I put it out of my mind as soon as it was done. But I do remember the director behind the table, and so I finally reached out to bring him onto the podcast.Marc Acito is a p

    Sep 26,2022 55:22
22. 22. Steve Harper Talks About Non-Traditional Casting & Writing for Superheroes Like Stargirl

    One of the themes of this podcast has been actors figuring out ways to be successful, even when the industry isn’t making that path an easy one. It can require to go beyond our actor training and discover new and hidden talents within ourselves as we forge new paths or even new careers.Steve Harper is an actor, writer, and producer of the stage and screen. He shares his own real life actor’s nightmare in a Shakespeare production in Cincinnati. But we also discuss how he found himself without a p

    Sep 19,2022 50:02
23. 23. Daryl Eisenberg and the Evolving Role of the Casting Director in Stage and Screen

    As noted in the previous episode, auditions are the backbone of this industry. It is the fundamental job of every actor to do as many jobs as we can and do each one to the best of our ability. But there is an important gatekeeper when it comes to submitting our self tapes or actually getting in the audition room, and that is the casting Director. You’ve heard from Actors and their experiences in front of the audition table. Well, now it’s time to hear from the other side of that proverbial table

    Sep 12,2022 01:04:27
24. 24. Audition Stories 2022 with Jerry Mitchell, Carmen Cusack, Barton Cowperthwaite, Kathryn Allison & More

    As much as we actors wish it wasn’t so, auditioning really is our job. Performing it’s just an added perk, if we do that job really well. That being said though, there are times when we mail an audition and simply couldn’t have done any better, yet we still don’t book the part. Such is the life and labor of an actor.Welcome to the annual episode of Audition Stories…the good, the bad, and the hysterical. And today you’ll be getting a sampling of the bonus episodes available to monthly supporters

    Sep 05,2022 46:18
25. 25. Barton Cowperthwaite from Tiny Pretty Things Discovers He’s More Than Just a Dancer

    When it comes to “making it” as a performer onstage or on screen, it’s usually as an actor, singer, or dancer.  Most people tend to gravitate toward the one(s) they’re most comfortable with and can truly express their artistry. Barton Cowperthwaite is a dancer first and foremost, with performances ranging from the opera La Traviata to Travis Wall’s Shaping Sound dance tour. The esteemed choreographer Lar Lubovitch describes Barton as a “movement poet” and credits him with having what he calls mu

    Aug 29,2022 57:16
26. 26. Andrew Lippa Shares Disappointments and Lessons Learned as a Broadway Composer & Lyricist (REWIND)

    Back in the summer of 2020, the lockdowns were in full swing, there was so much uncertainty around Covid and what the pandemic would mean for the arts, and there was a new Netflix docuseries everyone was talking about, a little show called Tiger King. Well, in the midst of all that I sat down with composer and lyricist Andrew Lippa. He talked about a few of his bigger profile shows like The Addams Family, Big Fish, and of course The Wild Party as well as a Tiger King parody he did with Kristin C

    Aug 22,2022 50:10
27. 27. Gina Harris Finds Magic in the Ordinary Things of Life and Theater

    In the previous episode, I spoke with a musical writing team about their process of writing a full show for the stage with a cast and creative team bringing their story to life. But in today’s episode I’m speaking with a singular artist about her one-woman show and the long journey it took to go from thoughts and ideas in her head to an actual production and a dramatic podcast as well.Gina Harris has performed in theaters and jazz clubs in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. She’s a vetera

    Aug 15,2022 49:22
28. 28. FINAL FIVE: Composer Matt Vinson & Book Writer and Lyricist Matte O’Brien

    In the last episode, I spoke with composer Matt Vinson and writer Matte O'Brien about their new musical Anne of Green Gables. It was the first time I’ve spoken with a musical writing team here on Why I’ll Never Make It, and so for the two of them I thought I would bring back a bonus episode I haven’t done in a while: The Final Five.After that main interview they answered five final questions about what “making it” means to them, lessons they’ve learned both as individuals and as a writing team,

    Aug 08,2022 21:39
29. 29. Matt Vinson & Matte O’Brien on the Joys and Challenges of Bringing a Musical to the Stage

    Writing a musical is a long process, and once the writers are have finished that last page…that’s really only the beginning of their journey. By the time an actor comes along to audition for it, there’s usually been years of drafts, workshops, and revisions. Listeners of this podcast know that this summer has been a welcome return to the stage for me in a new theatrical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, my first musical since the covid shutdown. And it all started with a self-tape audition bac

    Aug 01,2022 49:53
30. 30. Adam Stocker and the Theater Interview That Went All Wrong

    Just like actors show off their skills in the audition room, other artists and creatives have their own ways of showcasing talents to prospective theaters, directors, or employers. And these interviews can be just as anxious and nerve-racking as what we actors face, especially if you aren’t as prepared as you could be.Adam Stocker is a Broadway costumer and returns for this bonus episode to share a story from his junior year at Western Michigan University. He recounts an interview he had for wha

    Jul 25,2022 07:47
31. 31. Adam Stocker Shows How Broadway Costumers Are Like Engineers & Should be Paid Accordingly

    This past week as Anne of Green Gables went into tech rehearsal and we finally had our first public performance, I was reminded that there is a very particular important step that happens as you leave the rehearsal studio and finally start working on stage and that is the introduction of costumes. For me as an actor the adding of costumes is a big step forward in the development of my character. It informs how I move, how I stand or sit, and gives a sense of class or position, even the confidenc

    Jul 18,2022 57:16
32. 32. Playwright Cris Eli Blak Proves That Persistence Can Overcome the Most Challenging Hurdles (REWIND)

    For the past four weeks I’ve been in rehearsals for a new musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables. During that time I even got Covid for the second time and had to miss several days of rehearsal while I was recovering. In fact, I wasn’t the only one who got Covid during the rehearsal process, so it’s been quite a journey for the creators and the cast as a whole and putting the show together. But we’ve now done all the blocking and scene work and are headed into tech rehearsals this week.With

    Jul 11,2022 01:05:52
33. 33. Brian Patacca Lets Go of Expectations and Finds Artistic Freedom

    Among the many repercussions of the Covid pandemic, it caused actors, including myself, to question our purpose, our abilities, and our own belief in what it means to be an artist. Well, today’s guest had many of these same doubts and questions well before there was any pandemic affecting our industry. He felt an internal struggle between what he wanted to do and what he thought he should to be doing.Brian Patacca is a life coach and podcaster as well as a non-denominational minister, but he sta

    Jul 04,2022 51:16
34. 34. Ashley Victoria Robinson Never Settles, Constantly Pushing Herself as an Actor and Creative

    This past week I started rehearsals up in Connecticut at the Goodspeed Opera House doing a new musical version of the beloved Anne of Green Gables. It’s a well-known story around the world but especially in its home country of Canada. So in honor of that I thought I would bring a Canadian onto the podcast. Ashley Victoria Robinson  is an actress, writer, producer and podcaster, and though she and I won’t be talking about Anne of Green Gables, we do hit upon some of the themes from that story...d

    Jun 20,2022 54:11
35. 35. Jerry Mitchell Knows His Worth as Director & Choreographer Despite 6 Losses at the Tony Awards

    June is always a busy time for New York City with two major events taking place: one is of course the month-long Gay Pride celebration and the other is the biggest day of the Broadway season -- the Tony Awards. And today’s guest ticks off both of those boxes.Jerry Mitchell is a prolific Broadway Director and choreographer as well as a gay advocate with shows like Broadway Bares and Kinky Boots, just to name a few. He is also an eight-time Tony nominee, but he is quick to point out that he’s lost

    Jun 06,2022 01:00:58
36. 36. Turning Artistry Into Activism with Playwright Jason Odell Williams and Producer Charlotte Cohn

    The past couple of weeks have been difficult for this country, once again grappling with gun violence caused by madmen with evil intentions. This has unfortunately become an ongoing issue with people, politicians, and pundits saying a whole lot but doing very little. Four years ago this spring, a new play opened off Broadway called Church & State. It dealt with the contentious intersection of God, guns, and politics and featured four actors on a single set. I consider myself very fortunate to ha

    May 30,2022 33:44
37. 37. Brian Keith Graziani Illustrates How Talent Agents Impact an Actor’s Career

    Of the many actors I’ve interviewed and talked to personally I would say that there are at least two main objectives for most of them. One falls under auditions: getting in the biggest rooms for the best roles. And the second one falls under agents: getting representation that can get you into those bigger rooms. My on-camera agent Brian Keith Graziani and I have been working together since late 2020 for a range of projects--from commercials and industrials to TV dramas and docu-series. Brian hi

    May 23,2022 54:20
38. 38. Ethan Steimel Lights the Way to Talking About Money and Finances

    “There are few things that can cause joy, shame, contentment, anxiety and stress the way that money does,” says Korrena Bailie, Consumer Finance Editor at Forbes. “If your finances cause you stress and anxiety, it’s natural to want to keep this to yourself because you might feel embarrassed or ashamed about the decisions you made.” (NY Times)Well, one artist who is trying to break down that wall of fear or shame when it comes to money is lighting designer and fellow podcaster Ethan Steimel. And

    May 16,2022 59:22
39. 39. Treating Yourself as a Business with Jonathan Cerullo and Artistic Finance

    There are two fundamental sides to every actor: the artistic part of us that loves rehearsing and performing, and then there’s the business aspect which handles money, contracts, and other details. Both are absolutely crucial to our success. But while we are good at taking lessons, getting coachings, or joining classes to work on that creative side, we aren’t often as diligent or even aware of our need to build up our fiscal muscles and business know-how. That’s where Ethan Steimel comes in and

    May 09,2022 59:54
40. 40. David Dean Bottrell Faces His Fears and Unlocks a Greater Love for Acting and Performing

    No matter how many conversations I have with artists, no matter how many episodes this podcast releases, I’m amazed at the variety of insights and lessons that each person brings to these discussions. But in this episode, I think we hit upon one of the biggest obstacles, if not THE biggest, that holds us back as actors and creatives--and that is fear. Being afraid of vulnerability or not making enough money or not being cast or simply not being good enough.This fear is the cause of our self-doub

    May 02,2022 57:05
41. 41. Carmen Cusack and the Journey to Finding Her Bright Star

    One of the main themes and messages of this podcast has always been that success can mean different things to different people, and how someone gets there, if they get there, seems to take a different path each time. Today’s episode is with someone that I had the privilege of working with in the musical adaptation of First Wives Club back in 2015 in Chicago (with Faith Prince and Christine Sherrill). We were gearing up for a hopeful Broadway transfer that unfortunately never happened.But Carmen

    Apr 25,2022 59:52
42. 42. Anthony Rapp Becomes The Little Prince and Later Finds Seasons of Love

    Years after the failed Lerner & Loewe movie musical of The Little Prince, producer Joseph Tandet tried again, but this time with composer John Barry and a full Broadway production, which brought with it a whole new set of problems. The Little Prince and the Aviator began rehearsals in late 1981 and starred TV and film actor Michael York as the pilot with a 10-year-old newcomer in the title role - Anthony Rapp.I am so thrilled to have Anthony joining me today! We talk about that troubled producti

    Apr 18,2022 57:20
43. 43. Steven Warner (Part 2) - The Little Prince Grows Up and Finds a New Path

    As an actor it is rare to have long stretches of employment, especially in theater. Television actors can certainly be a part of a successful show for years on end. Same goes for movie franchises where roles can come back film after film. But for most of us, it is simply job to job. One show ends and we work hard to book the next one.For Steven Warner, he had just done the biggest role in his life…at the age of seven. So what was next for him? In part two of our conversation we explore the years

    Apr 11,2022 37:33
44. 44. Steven Warner (Part 1) - Becoming The Little Prince

    One of my all-time favorite movie musicals is Alan Jay Lerner & Frederick Loewe's adaptation of THE LITTLE PRINCE in 1974. It starred such legendary performers as Bob Fosse, Richard Kiley, Gene Wilder, and Donna McKechnie. It may not have done well at the box office or with many critics, but there's a lot to love about this star-studded film. So today’s episode is going to be slightly different from most episodes of Why I’ll Never Make It. That’s because it was born out of a collaboration betwee

    Apr 04,2022 46:25
45. 45. Kevin Spirtas - Emmy-Winning Actor Takes the Stage and Shares from the Heart

    Back in January 2022, this podcast held its first ever live event. It was a night of conversation with Emmy-winner Kevin Spirtas. He not only shared stories and struggles from his time on Broadway and television, but he also sang five songs that evening highlighting the work he has done and moments that have meant the most to him throughout his career.And so on today’s episode you’re going to hear a portion of this cabaret performance and discussion that was presented here in New York City at th

    Mar 28,2022 28:22
46. 46. Judy Tenuta Shares Her Journey from Stage to Standup and Her Battle with Cancer

    In 1987, HBO had a comedy special called Women of the Night. It featured four women who were known regionally and at certain comedy clubs, but had yet to really reach a national audience. They were Ellen DeGeneres, Paula Poundstone, Rita Rudner, and today’s guest Judy Tenuta. In fact, for the next four years each one of these women would be named Best Female Stand-up Comic at the American Comedy Awards (with Tenuta being the first in 1988).So throughout the 1980s and 90s Judy was a part of a big

    Mar 21,2022 31:55
47. 47. Elizabeth Swain Leads a New Generation of Theater Artists

    In the final episode of Season Five, I spoke with a talented and passionate actress and producer Debra Ann Byrd. In our conversation, she mentioned one of the professors that had a significant impact on her own training and understanding theater. Debra Ann spoke so highly of this mentor that I looked her up and decided to ask her to come on his podcast as well.But Elizabeth Swain is so much more than just a professor of theater. She is a Broadway actress with national tours and television credit

    Mar 14,2022 56:03
48. 48. Mental Talk About Performance Anxiety with Mostafa Ashraf and Yara

    The art of performing is certainly filled with joy and passion and can offer a creative fulfillment not found another professions. But as this podcast highlights with each episode, there are also underlying bouts of stress, anxiety, and frustration that come with being an artist and offering our creativity to the world. Last year I sat down with Mostafa Ashraf and his co-host Yara to talk about performance anxiety on their podcast Mental Talk. So I wanted to share with you this candid discussion

    Mar 07,2022 49:25
49. 49. Terron Brooks Discovers There’s More to Success Than Fame

    Back in 2014, I met today’s guest as we were both working on a workshop of a new musical based on the hit movie FIRST WIVES CLUB. We both continued on with the show as it traveled to Chicago for its out of town pre-Broadway tryout. However, the musical never made it to New York. But as you’ll hear in my conversation today with Terron Brooks, the journey of most performers is never a straight line and certainly there are many more failures and disappointments than successes.Terron certainly knows

    Feb 28,2022 01:02:56
50. 50. Black History Month - Vinnette Justine Carroll and Alvin Ailey (Encore)

    In honor of Black History Month, this episode is an encore presentation of two pioneering Black artists and the legacy they left in the performing arts. Vinnette Justine Carroll, PhD - Actress, Playwright, Director, TeacherVinnette Justine Carroll’s professionalism in theatrical arts paved way for black professionals in the industry. She was an actress and playwright who expressed herself through gospel music. In a 1979 interview, Carroll told The Times, “I decided my salvation was to create som

    Feb 21,2022 20:13
51. 51. Gina Morgano Learned That Self-Awareness Is Key to the Performer’s Journey

    No matter what profession you’re in, setting goals is an important part of finding the best path to get you there. For actors and performers our goals can be big ones like being on Broadway or come down to specific shows or roles that we want to do. But just because you know your goals, does that mean you also have a clear picture of your mission as an artist or the purpose of your life?My guest today is Gina Morgano, a fellow singer and podcaster who also teaches voice. And she’s brought along

    Feb 14,2022 43:46
52. 52. Kathryn Allison Shares How She Found Her True Authentic Self Outside of Broadway

    With live theater happening once again here in New York, one of the joys has been seeing friends back on stage, doing what they do best. And I certainly hope to be joining them soon, but in the meantime it’s wonderful to reconnect with today’s guest. Kathryn Allison is a singer and actress who I got to know at The Muny in St. Louis, just as she was really beginning her professional career. But she’s gone on to perform in Wicked, Aladdin and currently the revival of Company. (She seems to have a

    Feb 07,2022 01:03:38
53. 53. Al Blackstone On Knowing Yourself as an Artist & Not Waiting for Permission to Create

    The act of creating is both a testament to and a full embodiment of its creator. An actor gives so much of themselves to the role that they’re playing. A dancer utilizes every muscle to express an emotion. A writer pulls from their own life and experiences to create other worlds and powerful stories. And so it is only natural that we often tie our own self-worth and meaning to the success or failure of that creation. Today, I’m talking with Emmy-winning director/choreographer Al Blackstone, who

    Jan 31,2022 43:13
54. 54. Briana Packen on Finding Balance and Stability in our Lives and Acting Careers

    Sometimes the biggest obstacle standing in our way as actors is ourselves. Whether it’s self-doubt and a disbelief in our own abilities or maybe it’s giving too much weight to the criticism or expectations of others, or maybe a shift in priorities comes along and we have to make life decisions that go against our creative ambitions.To kick off season six, I’m talking with actor and coach Briana Packen about ways we can stop getting in our own way. She brought three stories with her today: one ab

    Jan 24,2022 59:56
55. 55. A Look Back at 2021 and What’s Next for Theater and This Podcast

    Happy birthday, WINMI! Welcome to the 4th Anniversary Episode of Why I'll Never Make It.Normally at the end of each season I take a chance to look back at the guests and conversations we’ve had throughout the year. But for this special episode you aren’t gonna be getting some "best-of" retrospective (although I will be counting down the Top 5 guests of 2021). Instead I’m bringing back two former guests and introducing you to a new creative as we talk about what this year has meant for theater in

    Dec 28,2021 42:42
56. 56. Debra Ann Byrd (Part 2) - A Black Girl‘s Journey to Becoming Othello

    The experiences of our lives affect the paths we choose and help make us who we are today. In part one of my conversation with Debra Ann Byrd, she revealed the ups and downs of her own life that eventually ignited a desire to perform and pursue a life on the stage. But just as it was with her personal journey, Debra’s path toward becoming an actor was slow but steady and her first steps as a producer started from very meager beginnings.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. At her very core,

    Dec 20,2021 37:16
57. 57. Debra Ann Byrd (Part 1) - Classically-Trained Actress Shares Her Bumpy Road to Theater

    I first found out about Debra Ann Byrd through an article in the Guardian titled “Black Shakespeare champion working to change views on color blind casting.” She was just starting a residency at Stratford upon Avon, and this article talked about one of Debra's college professors who discouraged her from getting into classical theater. That story alone piqued my interest, so I reached out to her and the conversation that we ended up with certainly had many more stories than that one instance.Sign

    Dec 13,2021 36:21
58. 58. Michael Learned - Emmy-Winning Actress Bravely Shares Her Struggles and Secrets to Longevity in the Arts

    In this day and age of everything going digital, and especially with zoom becoming an important part of both personal and professional connections, it’s a very rare moment to have a phone interview. But back in August of 2021 I had the privilege of calling up a wonderfully talented actress both on stage and on screen, four-time Emmy winner Michael Learned. Though she is best known for playing Olivia Walton, on the long-running 70's TV show The Waltons, it’s important to point out that she has ha

    Nov 29,2021 41:08
59. 59. Matt Sav Shares His Musical Composition Process from Idea to Production

    Bettering Ourselves and Bettering Our Careers (Part Four)The main focus and message of this series has been on storytelling. From Kate who talked about how to use our voices and acting skills to connect with casting directors as well audiences, to Max who broke down the elements of a good story and how to craft that for print, stage, or screen.For today’s episode I’m talking with composer and audio producer Matt Sav about musical storytelling and as you’ll hear in our conversation, to go from th

    Nov 22,2021 46:11
60. 60. Max Stossel Shows Us How to Improve Our Storytelling with Words That Move

    Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part Three)Though the theater is my main focus as both an actor and a podcaster, it is often interesting and educating to talk with those outside the theater world. And while today’s guest has performed on many stages, he is the last person who would consider himself to be an actor of any sorts. Nonetheless, Max Stossel has a lot to teach us actors about how we present and perform stories (and how we can even write our own). Max is an award-winning poe

    Nov 15,2021 49:37
61. 61. Standby for Places Uses Podcasts to Exercise and Explore an Actor‘s Creativity

    Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part Two)This is a continuation of part one’s look at voiceover work and acting behind the mic. You will hear from a group of actors, directors, and producers applying voiceover and acting techniques into their radio play podcast called Standby for Places. As the pandemic was shutting down most opportunities for actors, this group of artists found a way to keep acting and producing throughout the pandemic.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. Stand

    Nov 08,2021 35:03
62. 62. Kate McClanaghan Helps Actors Find Their Voice

    Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers (Part One)Today begins the second annual presentation of this month-long series with actress and voiceover coach Kate McClanaghan. We will be touching on the various aspects of voice work and technique but also addressing some fundamental struggles every actor faces.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. About 30 years ago Kate founded Actors’ SOUND ADVICE with fellow producer and coach Jeff Finney. Together they sought to provide an honest and perso

    Nov 01,2021 43:53
63. 63. Patrick Millsaps - A Country Lawyer Goes from Political Theater to Talent Management and Production

    One of the themes of this podcast is how we as actors are constantly changing, adjusting, tweaking our careers as we transition from stage or screen or commercials or voiceover. But that same kind of transition happens for those behind the table as well.Patrick Millsaps has had a unique journey of being an attorney turned political adviser and pundit to then becoming a talent manager and ultimately movie producer and studio head, taking the skills from one job to the next. Patrick’s story is not

    Oct 25,2021 50:18
64. 64. Peter Allen Vogt - Actor and Comedian on Weight Loss, Jealousy, and the Need to Reinvent Ourselves as Artists

    As an actor, one of the more difficult attitudes for me to manage is that of jealousy, and an elevated sense of competition for roles and even status in this industry. I’ve particularly noticed this as theater is opening up again after the long pandemic shutdown and other actors, not me, are back onstage again. My guest today, Peter Allen Vogt, is a talented actor in his own right but has struggled with this as well from time to time, especially considering he has a well-known identical twin who

    Oct 18,2021 56:41
65. 65. Alessandra Mai Vinh - Talented Dancer and Actress Navigates American Immigration as She Pursues Her Dreams

    Every year more and more artists come to this country and face the challenges of the language and the culture as well as the nuances of auditioning and performing in America. Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. Born in Italy with a Vietnamese background, Alessandra Mai Vinh began dancing at the age of 13. In Italy, she became known for working on national TV shows, commercials, and tours, as well as choreographing and dancing for several popular artists. In 2012, on a mission to pursue her

    Oct 11,2021 32:28
66. 66. Brad Oscar & Diego Prieto - Theater Husbands on Balancing Marriage and Careers

    Balancing work and life is a tough juggling act for most any actor or artist. But adding another person, a relationship, to the equation can be even more difficult to maintain. And actors as a whole aren’t known for the longevity of their relationships. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.Brad Oscar and Diego Prieto are actors and husbands who have learned their own lessons in both working and living as a couple. Brad has appeared in nine Broadway shows and is a Tony-nominee for his performanc

    Oct 04,2021 57:23
67. 67. Misty Rosas (Part 2) - Saying ”Yes” to Ourselves Is the First Step Toward Realizing Our Full Potential

    In part one of our conversation Misty Rosas talked about an opportunity to finally pursue one of her first passions as an artist -- singing -- and the thrill of opening for her favorite band Air Supply.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. In the second half of our conversation we’ll talk a bit more about that journey to becoming a singer again. We also get into how to handle our own inner critic, and I’ve even included the final five questions in this episode, where we do an even deeper div

    Sep 29,2021 43:30
68. 68. Misty Rosas (Part 1) - Performance Artist from Star Wars‘ The Mandalorian Opens Up About Her Hearing Loss

    I’ve been a fan of The Mandalorian since it debuted in 2019, and when I found out that one actor had played two wonderful characters on the show (Kuiil and Frog Lady) I was really impressed with her work. That’s when I looked up Misty Rosas and discovered her long résumé of other character work besides the Disney+ Star Wars series. She is also a dancer, singer, gymnast, stunt woman, and voiceover artist.And while her résumé is impressive, it was when I read her personal story that I truly became

    Sep 27,2021 39:57
69. 69. Nate Patten on the Strange and Wonderful 2020 Tony Award Nominations (REWIND)

    We're less than a week away from the 2020 Tony Awards ceremony (finally!) so I wanted to bring back this special episode all about those surprising Tony Award Nominations (announced 11 months ago) and the fallout from them. My conversation is with music director, conductor, and fellow podcaster Nate Patton. Nate and I first met when he was associate conducting Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Broadway. And his podcast called Booked It.The title to one of his episodes was “Broadway is broken

    Sep 20,2021 46:16
70. 70. Rodney Hicks (Part 2) - Broadway Actor Shares His Difficult Journey of Self-Discovery

    When it comes to work as an actor, there’s that old adage of "feast or famine" or "when it rains it pours." For myself that has meant going 11 months without any work…all while still auditioning of course.  While there have been other times when three shows come up at once, and I had to decide which ONE of them I’m going to do.In Part Two of my conversation with Rodney Hicks, we’re going to be talking about the feasts and famines of his career -- various shows and original casts he’s been a part

    Sep 15,2021 26:56
71. 71. Rodney Hicks (Part 1) - Musical Theater Actor Opens Up About What Caused Him to Leave Broadway

    Here in America, we just marked the 20th anniversary of 9/11. And on the eve of that anniversary a live recording of the Broadway production of Come From Away was released. It featured many past and present members of the cast. But one of the original cast members, Rodney Hicks, was absent from the filming. And in part one of our conversation, Rodney takes us through his long journey with the show and how it came to a sudden end. But he reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is stil

    Sep 13,2021 39:28
72. 72. Will Swenson (Part 2) - Actor/Singer on the Changes He Hopes to See in Theater, Especially Broadway

    As we came to the end of part one of our conversation Will Swenson and I were talking about the deeper questions of who we are as artists and as individuals in the absolute importance of bringing ourselves, our full selves to the stage. This is certainly one of the biggest lessons that we have to learn as actors and performers, and I throw in a couple of questions about lessons he and his wife Audra McDonald have learned from each other.Also in this episode, the Final Five has been included. Tho

    Sep 08,2021 28:10
73. 73. Will Swenson (Part 1) - Broadway Actor Talks About Failed Shows and Leaving the Mormon Church

    For the next three weeks I’ll be talking with two Broadway actors and a music director about their careers in New York and their own thoughts on the Tony Awards and theater in general. I start today with actor and singer Will Swenson, a Tony nominee for his outstanding work in the revival of the musical HAIR back in 2009. He's someone I’ve known since the late 90s when we were working at Disney World in Orlando, both sharing the role of Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. We are both baritone leadin

    Sep 06,2021 36:56
74. 74. Darren Darnborough - British Actor and Producer & CEO of WeAudition

    Whether from personal experience or hearing stories from the past two episodes on this podcast, you know that almost anything can happen in an audition room. Sometimes it’s magical moments, while other times are filled with frustration. Yet even still, the most “perfect“ audition doesn’t always lead to a call back or a contract. It is this uncertainty that can bring both excitement and dismay. Not to mention the fact that auditioning for the stage is slightly different from auditioning for the s

    Aug 30,2021 51:59
75. 75. More Audition Stories 2021 with Will Swenson, Mykal Kilgore, Gabrielle Ruiz, Justin Guarini and more!

    For most theater actors, Broadway is the ultimate status to attain in this industry. It’s the highest level any of us can reach and is the utmost definition of making it. But just because an actor has been on a Broadway stage, it doesn’t mean they don’t go through the same frustrations and doubts that we go through. And that really gets to the heart of Why I’ll Never Make It and especially today’s episode, which is brought to you by We Audition (get 25% off membership with promo code: WINMI25).T

    Aug 23,2021 48:12
76. 76. Audition Stories 2021 with Chaz Wolcott, Megan Carver, Damian Thompson and more!

    This summer has seen actors returning to the stage as some regional theaters have returned to normal with a summer season and live audiences. And with that of course has seen an increase in auditions. So it is with great pleasure and excitement that I welcome you to the third annual Audition Stories here on the podcast. The last time these audition episodes were on the podcast was a month before the Covid shutdown. And there have been a lot of guests with a lot of great stories since then. Today

    Aug 16,2021 47:07
77. 77. Eff Your Fears with Actress and Model Ashley Monique Menard

    For the past week I have been doing a deep dive into podcasting at a yearly conference called Podcast Movement. It's a place where podcasters like me can learn how to make better episodes, conduct riveting interviews, engage with listeners like you even more, and figure out ways to make my podcast both sustainable and profitable. The goal is to give you and future listeners even more reasons to come back week after week for another episode. At last year‘s conference I actually met a guest you’ve

    Aug 09,2021 59:51
78. 78. Kristen Hetzel and Keep the Flame Alive Talk Team USA Duathlon & Maintaining Her Acting Career

    Last year I started releasing bonus episodes to those who supported this podcast on a monthly basis. Well, this is one of those special episodes with Kristen Hetzel. I brought along the co-hosts of Olympic podcast Keep the Flame Alive. Jill and Allison ask questions which bring a different perspective to my conversation with this silver and bronze medal duathlete. They ask about Team USA, correlations between acting training and athleticism, and even wonder about guys who challenge Kristen to du

    Aug 06,2021 13:43
79. 79. Kristen Hetzel - Actress and Team USA Duathlete Reveals What Artists Can Learn from Sports (REWIND)

    As the Olympics head into their second week, it’s been a great reminder of the lessons we as artists can learn from these Olympians.Remember the episode with Sally Wilfert? She reminded us singers how we are small muscle athletes. And anyone who’s been through a tech rehearsal process knows what a marathon can feel like and striving to reach the finish line.Mindset and mental health are also so important. Athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka are recent examples of how competition and espec

    Aug 02,2021 42:04
80. 80. Sydney Irving - Young Singer/Songwriter Shares How Hard Work Defines Her as an Artist

    When it comes to theater we all know Broadway and the big lights of New York City. There’s also organizations like the public or playwrights horizons that present notable off Broadway productions as well. But for the most part stage work is done by small to midsize theaters across the country some bring in equity Actors but a lot of them don’t. They are simply gathering together actors, directors, and designers to put on a show to entertain and engage local audiences. Well, the music industry is

    Jul 26,2021 37:17
81. 81. Sabine Kvenberg - German Actress Who Discovered Musical Theater and a Love for Teaching

    During this past year as Covid wrecked the theater scene, ending so many shows and seasons, Andrew Lloyd Webber was doing his best to bring musicals back to the West End. And in much the same way, although for very different reasons, it was Lloyd Webber in the 1980s who was bringing the modern musical theater to Germany and the rest of Europe with grand spectacles like Cats.At that time Sabine Kvenberg was a stage actress at the very start of her performing career. So of course when Cats came al

    Jul 19,2021 47:17
82. 82. Damian Thompson - A Jamaican-Born Actor Who Shares How Stuttering Led Him Into Acting

    Communication and interacting with each other through words is really at the heart of what it means to connect and relate to other people. This is even more clear as actors and writers in the way that we tell stories and share experiences. Clear and understandable communication is a vital part of the performing arts. We do this through dance, visual media, physical gestures, and other ways, but most importantly though language. For Damian Thompson, this of course has been an essential part of hi

    Jul 12,2021 01:06:50
83. 83. Ashley Danyew - Musician and Educator Shares the Importance of Being a Portfolio Artist

    in many ways today’s episode is almost a masterclass from beginning to end in how to bridge the gap between being artist and an entrepreneur. Ashley Danyew is a musician and educator who shares how she has had to branch out in many different directions to build both an enjoyable and sustainable career. Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. Even before the pandemic, the life of any artist was one of constant change. Times when you have more work than you know what to do with and other long st

    Jul 05,2021 53:25
84. 84. Joshua Turchin - Actor, Composer, and Musical Theater Wunderkind

    Well, here we are at the third and final installment of my young artist series. And it could be argued that I’ve saved the most prolific artist for last. As both a performer and writer, Joshua Turchin has crammed a lot of experience into his very young career. Whether it’s on stage at the Hollywood bowl or a national tour OR composing his own award-winning musical OR Music directing his weekly cabaret series, Joshua certainly stays busy. Oh yeah, he also has school and homework to deal with as w

    Jun 28,2021 39:32
85. 85. Chloe Noelle - Young Actress from TRUE BLOOD Continues to Learn and Grow in Her Career

    When it comes to actors, we really are part of a family and community with one another, and no matter how long or how short a time we’ve been in this business, there’s always something we can learn from each other. I mean that's really the basis of this podcast, and today’s guest is a perfect example of this.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. For the most part Chloe Noelle is just your average teenager, who loves games, movies, and time with her friends. But Chloe‘s first big acting job c

    Jun 21,2021 44:41
86. 86. Alex J. Dean - Young Actor and Director Graduates from Film School During a Pandemic

    Being a coach and leading master classes has been something I truly enjoyed doing. Imparting my experience and insights to students and watching them have those a-ha moments and discovering something new about themselves or their own skills and talents. But sometimes it’s good to flip that around and ask those just starting out their career what THEY have learned so far and where THEY see not only themselves going in this career but where the industry is going as a whole. So for the next three e

    Jun 14,2021 48:43
87. 87. The Flame Podcast Musical with Creators Ellie Brigida and Leigh Holmes Foster

    In this past year, as most actors and artists were forced to stay at home, we found new ways to keep creating. The most obvious is the explosion of zoom readings and productions of both new and existing works. Others discovered this medium of podcasting, and in just one year the number of podcasts doubled.But in today’s episode, in honor of Pride Month, I’m talking with two women who set out to explore a relatively new art form, the podcast musical. Ellie Brigida and Leigh Holmes Foster are the

    Jun 07,2021 38:46
88. 88. Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols

    This week I'm sharing a conversation I had on another podcast called Blatantly Honest. At the end of this episode I also talk about the recent survey and the need for a reassessment of WINMI Podcast.Sign up for the monthly WINMI Newsletter. Makaila Nichols is the founder of the Blatantly Honest Foundation. She is also a national speaker, podcaster, and best-selling author of Blatantly Honest: Normal Teen, Abnormal Life. In her book, she shares her personal struggles with issues teens may encount

    Jun 02,2021 34:20
89. 89. Diane Foy - PR & Marketing Coach Shares Her Roadmap for Actors and Musicians

    Last week on the podcast I spoke with an acting teacher (Terry Knickerbocker) about techniques and the creative process for us actors. Well, this week a publicist will guide us through the business side of our profession, and how best to promote and grow our careers, not letting others and especially ourselves stand in our way. Join or Donate to WINMI - whyillnevermakeit.comBack in March 2021 I appeared on a podcast called sing dance act thrive hosted by PR and marketing coach Diane Foy. Other g

    May 26,2021 44:17
90. 90. Evelyn LeBel & Chris Stepanek - Broadway Dresser and Off-Broadway Technician Share Their Work and Love of Theater

    The last time a couple came on the podcast was way back in Season 1. And on today's episode Evelyn LeBel and her fiancé Chris Stepanek join me to discuss their different roles backstage, why unions are so important, and how networking is the name of the game in finding work.Give your feedback in the 2021 Listener Survey.This Broadway dresser and Master Technician would have been married last year but something called Covid got in the way, and it continues to affect all arts workers professionall

    May 19,2021 42:49
91. 91. Terry Knickerbocker - New York Acting Teacher and Theater Director Helps Actors Become Their Best

    Give your feedback in the 2021 Listener Survey.Ever since I became WINMI's sole host and producer, I have wanted to have an acting teacher on this podcast. Well, it certainly took long enough, but that time has finally come. Terry Knickerbocker has been guiding students for almost 30 years, having trained and taught with William Esper, one of the most respected protégés of Sanford Meisner. And The Terry Knickerbocker Studio is this month's featured Artist Resource. You can find a full list of ar

    May 12,2021 01:12:53
92. 92. Kimberly Faye Greenberg - An Actress and Singer Making It as a Broadway Dresser

    As you and I certainly know there is so much more to Theater then just what happens on stage. There are those behind the scenes and backstage, contributing just as much to the production of any show. The next four episodes will be focusing on this important work and how we as Actors can collaborate with them. Today’s guest is not only an actress but has worked as a dresser in more than 20 Broadway shows. But for Kimberly Faye Greenberg, performing in a Broadway show is still on her bucket list.I

    May 05,2021 59:52
93. 93. MoonAmie Productions - Training Children and Young Adults in the Performing Arts

    It’s really no big secret that having children involved in the performing arts can have a major impact on them in school and out of school. Well, today’s guests are training some of these young artists in a fine arts conservatory down in Miami, Florida called MoonAmie Productions. Monica Rosell and Priscilla Blanco join me to discuss their important work and the creative home they provide their students. Sign up for the WINMI Newsletter. My conversation begins with Monica, Owner and Artistic Dir

    Apr 28,2021 50:53
94. 94. Joel B. New - Musical Theater Composer Learning to Craft Music and Marketing

    In the last episode we learned the importance of producing our own work as actors. Well today's guest, Joel B. New, will show us that just because you build it doesn't mean people will come. After the hard work of creating, then comes the daunting task of producing and promoting it, getting others to take notice and support that work. Learn how Joel found unique ways to get the word out on one of his own musicals."Strong Hands" - performed by Ernie Pruneda"The Fort" - performed by Marita Stryker

    Apr 21,2021 51:22
95. 95. Ashley Kate Adams - Broadway Actress Who Learned How to Be Her Own Producer

    At one point or another there is a lesson that all actors have to learn, and this past year has driven home that lesson even more so, and that is the need to create our own work. Today’s guest, Ashley Kate Adams, Not only added producing to her already sizable acting resume, but she put all of her thoughts and lessons learned into a new book called Be Your Own Producer. #BYOP - https://amzn.to/3wUPUF9 (pre-order for August publication)Join WINMI - http://whyillnevermakeit.comFollow Ashley - Webs

    Apr 14,2021 53:56
96. 96. Marcus Scott - Theater Playwright and Journalist Who Embraces His Inner Black Geek

    On today’s podcast journalist Marcus Scott shares his love of telling stories and how he suddenly found himself writing musicals. Sign up for the WINMI Newsletter Real life writing, that’s really the best way to describe the kind of work Marcus does. It’s something of the moment. It's meaningful, insightful, and true to the experiences that Marcus knows firsthand or has researched down to a minute detail. And one of the most ever present issues affecting Artist right now is the pandemic, and eve

    Apr 07,2021 41:49
97. 97. Joyce Hshieh (Part 2) - Line Memorization Techniques to Help Actors OFF BOOK IT

    While natural talent certainly plays a part in the capabilities of any actor to perform, there’s one skill that has to be learned and nurtured for any actor to really make it in this business, and in part two of my conversation with Joyce Hshieh, she talks about this all important ability to learn and memorize lines. As an actor she struggled with memorizing lines, but as a trivia enthusiast she learned several simple and easy techniques to boost her memory. She studied and researched the scienc

    Apr 02,2021 27:03
98. 98. Joyce Hshieh (Part 1) - BFA Trained Actress Becomes Jeopardy Champion

    Almost every actor would seize upon the opportunity to be in a big TV show. But even with a BFA in acting and conservatory theater training, none of it had really prepared Joyce Hshieh for one of the biggest roles of her life, Becoming a three day champion on the game show jeopardy.Sign up for the WINMI Newsletter. In part one of my conversation with Joyce, we talk about her theater training and her struggle to find fulfillment as an actor. She shares how surprising it was to find herself on Jeo

    Mar 31,2021 33:47
99. 99. Sally Wilfert (Part 2) - ALL THE GIRLS and a Tribute to Broadway’s Leading Lady, Rebecca Luker

    On December 23, 2020, Broadway and musical theater lost one of its most beautifully talented leading ladies, Rebecca Luker. In the second half of my conversation with Sally Wilfert, we talk about their close friendship and the last project of Rebecca’s life, a duo album called All the Girls. We also touch on what made her such a unique and special individual who touched the lives of so many. We also share personal stories of knowing and working with Rebecca, and discuss the legacy she leaves beh

    Mar 26,2021 30:38
100. 100. Sally Wilfert (Part 1) - A Singer’s Journey from the Piano to Broadway

     Sally Wilfert is a Broadway actress and an amazing vocalist who understands the rigors and demands of performing at the top of her game. In part one of my conversation with Sally, she and I discuss the difficulties, injuries, and self-doubts she’s endured. Sign up for the WINMI Newsletter. Unlike other jobs like accounting, engineering, or even medicine, singing is uniquely personal, expressing parts of ourselves that may go unspoken or unknown at any other time except through the music and lyri

     Mar 24,2021 36:25
101. 101. Gabrielle Ruiz (Part 2) - EVITA National Tour and Female Representation in the Arts

     As we talked about in Part One, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is what put Gabrielle Ruiz on the map. However, it was her theater training and performance abilities that made it possible for her to be cast in the show. In this episode we talk more about her time on the stage and what drives her most as an artist. Get the WINMI Newsletter - join.whyillnevermakeit.comFollow Gabrielle - Website / Instagram / Twitter / WAFF Podcast—————Here are ways to connect with me and the guests as well as opportunities to

     Mar 19,2021 40:00
102. 102. Gabrielle Ruiz (Part 1) - From Broadway Actress to TV Star on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

     My good friend and amazing performer Gabrielle Ruiz joins me for Women's History Month to chat about her journey from ensemble member on Broadway to a principal role on primetime television. It's a path many of us actors wish to have, but hers has not been without personal and professional setbacks. And in part one of our conversation we touch on some of the highlights as well as how she's handled the low points.Get the WINMI Newsletter - join.whyillnevermakeit.comFollow Gabrielle - Website / In

     Mar 17,2021 41:20
103. 103. Dorothy Fields and Broadway Collaborations Over Five Decades (Part 2) with Kristin Stultz Pressley

     Fifty years ago this month 10 people were inducted into the songwriters Hall of Fame. Included on that list are well-known names like duke Ellington, Ira Gershwin, and Alan J Lerner. The only woman in that group was Dorothy Fields. But despite her talents for lyrics and storytelling, her journey to becoming a songwriter wasn’t easy. In fact, there were some pretty big roadblocks in her way.This episode Is presented in conjunction with Maestra Music.Women's History Month continues wirth part two

     Mar 12,2021 39:12
104. 104. Dorothy Fields and Her Impact on Broadway Musical Theater (Part 1) with Kristin Stultz Pressley

     This week for Women’s History Month, I’m sharing a special conversation with Dr. Broadway about prolific lyricist and librettist Dorothy Fields, who collaborated with some of the most iconic and legendary composers in Broadway history. For much of the Golden Age of the American musical, Fields was one of the only women writing for the Broadway theatre.This episode is presented in conjunction with Maestra Music.Even if the name Dorothy Fields isn't completely familiar to you, her songs and musica

     Mar 10,2021 25:32
105. 105. Carrie Bernans (Part 2) - Connecting with Other Actors and Confronting Stereotypes of Black Women

     The church plays and school musicals of Carrie's childhood eventually gave way to on-camera acting and her desire to become a "black girl James Bond." So she was introduced to stunt work and martial arts classes, giving her a whole new set of skills that she also created careers of themselves. That's when she also discovered WeAudition and it online video community for actors.Sign up for the WINMI newsletter and get 25% off a WeAudition membership. We also talk about her travels abroad and the i

     Mar 05,2021 25:53
106. 106. Carrie Bernans (Part 1) - From Actress on Stage to Stuntwoman in Black Panther

     Carrie Bernans is the perfect person to kick off Women's History Month. She is a strong individual who knows who she is, what she wants, and usually how to get there. That’s not to say it’s been all smooth sailing for her, either personally or professionally, but she never lost her faith or belief in what’s possible.She isn’t just an actress, she’s also trained in martial arts, stunt work, and body movement in addition to theater. Growing up she not only performed in plays and dance recitals but

     Mar 03,2021 31:00
107. 107. Brie Eley (Part 2) - Using Her Force for Good in Star Wars and with Fellow Black Actresses

     In part two of my conversation with Brie Eley, she talked about her latest project that has been such a mountaintop experience for her and we get into her organization that promotes and supports black actresses, providing them with opportunity and community but also showcasing the vast diversity among these black actresses.Topics discussed:The High Republic - a new digital series from STAR WARSPew Research - social media and Black AmericansNielsen Company - 2019 Diverse Intelligence Series repor

     Feb 26,2021 43:03
108. 108. Brie Eley (Part 1) - Classically Trained Theater Actress Chooses TV/Film Career

     When it comes to being an artist, Brie Eley is the very definition of a multi-hyphenate. She is a classically trained actress and improviser, spent more than 10 years in marketing and small business development, and she creates, produces, and directs independent productions.As Black History Month comes to a close, Brie joins me to talk about the wide variety of projects in her career, the daily grind of being an actor, and the persistence that we all need to keep going. Because no matter how bus

     Feb 24,2021 25:34
109. 109. Adrienne Walker (Part 2) - Offering Audition and Theater Advice to Fellow Actors with 32 Bar Cut

     One of the hardest lessons for any actor to learn is to not take constant rejection personally. Adrienne Walker and I continue in part two of our conversation with stories from our own struggles and failures in the audition room and on stage.We also get into her YouTube Series called 32 Bar Cut as she seeks to help others navigate this tricky business. But first, I did a little deeper into something she said about bringing her blackness into the audition room and try to gain a better understandi

     Feb 19,2021 26:13
110. 110. Adrienne Walker (Part 1) - Broadway Actress and Singer Found a Home in The Lion King

     While the goal of every actor is to perform, our day-to-day job is actually auditioning. As we continue Black History Month here on the podcast, Adrienne Walker from The Lion King on Broadway joins me for a very open and candid conversation about being in such an iconic show. We also touch on some very important issues: auditioning as a black actress and the need for authentic black voices in theater.But we start off talking about The Lion King, when it and Broadway are coming back, the show’s h

     Feb 17,2021 38:03
111. 111. Erin Cherry (Part 2) - An Actress Producing and Creating Her Own Work

     In the second half of our conversation, Erin Cherry focuses on her weekly show Sundays with a Cherry on Top, a health and lifestyle show that showcases Black Culture in all its forms. She also joined playwright Mfoniso Udofia, Ngozi Anyanwu, and Chinyere Anyanwu as a founder producer of NOW Africa. This playwrights festival seeks to introduce, and sometimes reintroduce, artists and academics to the masters of African Dramatic Literature, both classic and contemporary.Thank you for joining me and

     Feb 12,2021 31:49
112. 112. Erin Cherry (Part 1) - This Emmy Winning Actress Can Teach Us a Thing or Two

     For almost a year now Actors have had very little in the way of exercising and using our creative muscles, so in this episode I wanted to remind us of the craft and joy of acting. As Black History Month continues here on the podcast, who better to discuss the ins and outs of acting with than Emmy-winning actress Erin Cherry.join.whyillnevermakeit.comCherry, as she prefers to be called, coaches and teaches actors at Maggie Flanagan Studio in New York City. It’s a Meisner based acting program, whi

     Feb 10,2021 28:11
113. 113. Geoffrey Owens (Part 2) - The Trader Joe’s Photo and Shift Happens

     The life of any actor is one of going in and out of employment. But for Geoffrey Owens back in 2018, his side job was captured in a photo and spread across the Internet. In part two of our conversation for Black History Month, Geoffrey opens up about what led to his job at Trader Joe’s. We talk about the importance of work and how hard it can be for Actors to find it.join.whyillnevermakeit.comFollow Geoffrey: Website / Instagram / IMDB—————Season 5 brings with it a new ways connect with me and t

     Feb 05,2021 34:21
114. 114. Geoffrey Owens (Part 1) - So Much More Than Just Elvin on The Cosby Show

     Throughout his career Geoffrey Owens has been an actor, director, and teacher. But for more than 35 years he has been known as Elvin from The Cosby Show. As we kick off Black History Month here on the podcast I sat down with Geoffrey to talk about his own history as an actor, the lucky breaks that have come his way as well as the hardships he’s faced, the photo that surfaced in 2018 of him working at Trader Joe’s, and what it means to be so singularly identified with one show.join.whyillnevermak

     Feb 03,2021 34:31
115. 115. Ashley Monique Menard (Part 2) - Writer and Comedian Who Knows What She’s Capable Of

     I think it’s fair to say that artist are an emotional bunch in general. We feel things deeply and react with conviction. And that goes for the wonderful and exciting emotions but also goes for the heavy and worrisome emotions as well. In part two of my conversation with Ashley Monique Menard, she reveals the yen and yang of her confidence and her self-doubt, she compares her dating life to Broadway, and has a few choice words for perfectionism. Join WINMI to listen to the Final Five episode: joi

     Jan 29,2021 25:55
116. 116. Ashley Monique Menard (Part 1) - Actress and Plus Size Model Who Just Wants to Make You Laugh

     In theater or really in any performing art, we have certain genres or types of characters and stories that fit us better than others. And today’s guest Ashley Monique Menard found her niche in comedy. But often, even what we’re good at doesn’t really begin to blossom and grow until we really hone that craft and work on it.So in part one of our conversation we’ll talk a lot about that comedy, how it’s helped her find and strengthen her voice, but also how an honest assessment of her talents and l

     Jan 27,2021 25:30
117. 117. Lauren Ober (Part 2) - How Podcasting Makes a Great Home for Performers

     As the host of NPR‘s the big listen, Lauren Ober was basically podcasting about podcasts and through that became a bona fide podcast expert. Maybe you’ve thought of starting your own podcast. In part two of our conversation, she takes us through her production process on Spectacular Failures and what it takes to make a great podcast. Join WINMI: Website / Memberships / NewsletterThank you for joining me for part two of my conversation with Lauren Ober. Come back next week for for my discussion w

     Jan 22,2021 34:23
118. 118. Lauren Ober (Part 1) - Podcaster, Journalist, and Voice Coach Shares Her Spectacular Failures

     Here on Why I’ll Never Make It, we focus on the challenges and setbacks that artists face, but there is one podcast out there focusing on the Spectacular Failures of companies and organizations. Lauren Ober is the host and producer of that podcast and is also a journalist, a noted speaker, and voice coach. In part one of our conversation She and I discuss some of the parallels between being onstage and behind a mic, but we focus mainly on the rise and fall the big Broadway production company Liv

     Jan 20,2021 35:58
119. 119. Justin Guarini (Part 2) - Lessons Learned from His Broadway Career after American Idol

     Welcome back to part two of my conversation with Justin Guarini! He’s already shared pivotal moments from his childhood and given us a cautionary tale of his college experience. So we pick up with his decision to stick with American Idol instead of making his Broadway debut with The Lion King. Get Justin's book Audition Secrets and learn his tips and secrets to auditioning. Topics discussed in this episode:Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown Julie Andrews and her vocal surgery Justin in Wi

     Jan 15,2021 43:07
120. 120. Justin Guarini (Part 1) - His Bumpy Musical Journey Leading Up to American Idol

     Happy New Year to you! And welcome to the premiere episode of Season Five.Today’s guest is Justin Guarini, who you probably know from American Idol but has done so much more and has a lot to teach us about becoming an artist, finding our own path, and realizing that fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.Get Justin's book Audition Secrets or possibly win a signed copy of this book by becoming a member of WINMI as a Maker, Producer, or Artist. Sign up for one of these memberships by January 31, 202

     Jan 13,2021 37:11
121. 121. Look Back at 2020 & the Last Final Five

     A look back at the year that was unlike anything we would’ve hoped for or imagined. Still, this podcast had its good moments and a plethora of fantastic guests.0:28 - Introduction1:10 - COVID update3:31 - Broadway Makers Alliance & Helium Radio Networks5:42 - Season Recap and Top 5 Guests7:55 - My two favorite episodes10:51 - Season 5 Preview with Justin Guarini12:19 - Final Five: Sammi Cannold34:44 - Members-Only episodesFollow WINMI: Instagram / Twitter / Website —————Donate to WINMI and gain

     Dec 28,2020 37:45
122. 122. THE PROM Special Episode with Caitlin Kinnunen and Abigail Rose Solomon (REWIND)

     Merry Christmas! :)In honor of the recent release of THE PROM movie on Netflix, here is a special combo episode of my conversations with star of the Broadway production, Caitlin Kinnunen (starts at 1:58), and one of the co-producers, Abigail Rose Solomon (starts at 35:18).Also, this holiday season don't miss the 12 Days of Auditions, available at donate.winmipodcast.com. Become a WINMI Producer and listen to former guests share their most memorable audition stories.Listen to Caitlin's full secon

     Dec 25,2020 58:00
123. 123. Sammi Cannold (Part 2) - Don’t Keep Your Distance from This Innovative Theater Director

     Today’s episode is part two of my conversation with the final guest of Season 4.Sammi Cannold is a remarkable artist and director. She was even named to the 2019 Forbes List of 30 under 30 in entertainment for her innovative and unique approach to directing for the stage. And today’s conversation is going to be focusing on a few of those productions...her remarkable staging of the musical Violet on an actual busher 2019 New York City Center Gala production of EvitaI have my own personal connecti

     Dec 18,2020 36:10
124. 124. Sammi Cannold (Part 1) - Director Who Shows How Theater Can Be COVID-Safe

     Here we are at the final guest of Season Four...In part one of my conversation with New York director, Sammi Cannold shares the details of an article she wrote for The Stage, detailing how South Korean producers have made theater safe and possible for both creatives and audiences.While Sammi remains more diplomatic, I am not gentle in my rebuke of the Broadway League and Actors Equity, who have either kept silent for much of this pandemic or have actually been a hindrance to getting theater up a

     Dec 16,2020 39:11
125. 125. Christophe Zajac-Denek (Part 2) - Twin Peaks Actor and Podcaster on Dwarfism

     In part one of my conversation with Christophe Zajac-Denek, he talked about growing up with dwarfism, his love of music and drumming, and how he just kind of fell into the world of acting on camera. For part two, we continue that journey with the movie and experience that had a profound impact on his life. As we start this episode Christophe has moved back to Michigan to go to music school and return to his first love of drumming, but life had other ideas for what Christophe needed to be doing.F

     Dec 11,2020 39:56
126. 126. Christophe Zajac-Denek (Part 1) - Little Person Actor and Musician on Finding Acceptance

     If I’m being honest, I have never really met a little person. Maybe in passing, but never actually sat down and had a conversation with one. But once we got on Zoom, Christophe Zajac-Denek and I chatted for more than two hours and even then we still could’ve kept on talking. There were so many areas of his life and experience that were not only interesting but also inspiring. So this is actually just part one of that conversation.His fascinating story is such a departure from most conversations

     Dec 09,2020 49:20
127. 127. Cecy Treviño (Part 2) - Her BroadwayMania Actors and Christmas Creative Team

     It's been one heck of a year, yet one arts group wanted to come together and make something to celebrate this season. They asked me to be a part of the event by hosting their Virtual Red Carpet. These interviews with the actors and creative team behind BroadwayMania's Holiday Special were first shown Thanksgiving weekend and led up to the hour-long Christmas program.Amanda Varelakis, singer/director (1:51)Sean Milas, singer (5:15)Amber Dickson, singer (9:38)Toby Blackwell, singer/writer (12:43)S

     Dec 04,2020 38:33
128. 128. Cecy Treviño (Part 1) - Founder and Artistic Director of BroadwayMania

     This past summer, as we were in the midst of massive theater shutdowns and summer season cancellations, I found BroadwayMania on Instagram. It was mostly videos of singers belting out show tunes, well-produced performances that were earnest and passionate.As I found out more about this organization and their mission to provide opportunities to performers around the world, I was truly captivated by their love of theater. While there are some professional artists in the group, many others come fro

     Dec 02,2020 22:41
129. 129. WINMI Recommends: ”The Politics of Culture” on Left, Right & Center

     When it comes to the arts, I aim to give as wide a field of experience and opinion as possible here on the podcast. Yet for the most part I steer clear of politics. This is for a few reasons, but the main two are that I don’t want to add to the already divisive nature of some political activism and I want the content of this podcast to be as relevant today as it will be a year or more from now. Causes come and go, elected officials also change regularly (as does their rhetoric and positions on k

     Nov 30,2020 03:10
130. 130. FINAL FIVE: Kristen Hetzel, Team USA

     Thanks for coming back to join me and Kristen Hetzel again! This is a bonus episode to the previous conversation, where we cover topics and five specific questions that we didn’t address on the last episode. Today, Kristen talks about her athletic and acting bucket lists and shares wisdom from her Aunt Zee. The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Make your one-time or monthly donation at donate.winmipodca

     Nov 27,2020 10:33
131. 131. Kristen Hetzel - Team USA Duathlete on Bettering Our Attitudes with Persistence and Gratitude

     In this podcast’s continuing series, Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers we’re finding ways to improve how we work and create, how to push through challenges we face. So far we’ve looked at ways to better our public relations, our mindset and deliberate practice as well as branding strategies and how best to use social media.Join the WINMI newsletter: whyillnevermakeit.com Today, as we head into a long Thanksgiving weekend, we’ll be tying it altogether by talking about persistence and gra

     Nov 25,2020 38:10
132. 132. After the Interview with Tony Howell

     Become a WINMI Producer today: donate.winmipodcast.com This interview was conducted back in August 2020, hence the reference to my air conditioner. Tony also mentions his episode with Lea Salonga, which has since been released.He goes on to rant a bit about podcasting and getting interviews, and we discuss online classes from Domestika and General Assembly. And once again, the title of this podcast comes under the microscope.Take Tony's Digital Wellness Survey, a quick self-assessment of your on

     Nov 20,2020 19:56
133. 133. Tony Howell - Bettering Our Online Presence and Social Media Strategy

     When it comes to our lives and our careers, perhaps no shift has been more dramatic or significant as our increase in time online and on our phones. The biggest driver of this is social media. Digital strategist Tony Howell pays another visit to the podcast as we talk about branding, online presence, and our use of social apps.Sign up for the WINMI newsletter...Tony first appeared on the podcast back in season two. Since performing together on a national tour, he has left the physical stage behi

     Nov 18,2020 54:57
134. 134. Alisa Hurwitz (Dr. Drama) - Bettering Our Mindset for Auditions and Performance

     In part three of the month-long series bettering ourselves bettering our careers, this episode is a continuation from the previous conversation about deliberate practice and the 10,000 hours rule. Another psychologist, Alisa Hurwitz, PsyD, joins me today to dive into mindset and how we actors can deal with rejection and the challenges we face in this business.Her moniker Dr. Drama comes from her many analytical interviews, discussions, and articles on theater, specifically her lifelong passion f

     Nov 13,2020 43:26
135. 135. Brooke Macnamara, PhD - Bettering Our Practice and Applying the 10,000 Hours Rule to Actors

     When it comes to bettering ourselves as artists, it involves a lot of training, coaching, and practice. One popular strategy is called the 10,000 Hours Rule, popularized by Malcolm Gladwell. But today’s guest, psychologist Brooke Macnamara, has done research showing the importance of quality over quantity.Get the WINMI Newsletter: whyillnevermakeit.comIn his 2008 book Outliers: The Story of Success, Gladwell proposes this rule based on a study of violinists conducted by psychologist Anders Ericc

     Nov 11,2020 55:29
136. 136. Lisa Goldberg - Bettering Our Acting Careers through Public Relations

     This is the first episode in a new series on the podcast: Bettering Ourselves, Bettering Our Careers. And today’s guest provides a great example of both - Lisa Goldberg, Owner of LSG Public Relations. Support WINMI and get your supporter-only episodes: donate.winmipodcast.com Lisa represents actors, writers, directors, and choreographers both nationally and internationally, who have won Emmys, Golden Globes, Grammys, and Tony awards. She’s also represented companies and charities as well. But sh

     Nov 04,2020 46:59
137. 137. 2020 Tony Award Nominees with Broadway’s Nate Patten

     On this special bonus episode all about the recent Tony Award Nominations, I’m so happy to introduce music director, conductor, and fellow podcaster Nate Patton. Nate and I first met when he was associate conducting Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Broadway. And his podcast called Booked It.The title to one of his episodes was “Broadway is broken and I alone can fix it.” And it's this kind of witty, tongue in cheek and knowledgeable opinions that I wanted to bring on the show as we talk abou

     Nov 02,2020 44:31
138. 138. FINAL FIVE: Meredith Aleigha Wells

     Meredith and I continue our conversation from the previous episode as she answers the Final Five questions. She shares her national tour ambitions and her love of interior design as well as what she learned from Ali Stroker.Make your one-time or monthly donation at donate.winmipodcast.com     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. For further insights on the topics covered in this episode:

     Oct 30,2020 07:49
139. 139. Meredith Aleigha Wells - Actor/Singer Who Is Dysfunctioning Just Fine in Her Wheelchair

     In honor of Dysautonomia Awareness Month, Meredith Aleigha Wells joins the podcast to share her struggles and challenges onstage and in life all from the vantage point of a wheelchair. After becoming disabled at the age of 19, Meredith performed in a college workshop production of the new musical Donny Johns, making UMass Amherst history as the first actor who uses a wheelchair to perform in a Mainstage production.Meredith graduated with a Bachelor's Degree with Individualized Concentration in M

     Oct 28,2020 46:34
140. 140. WINMI Recommends: Keep the Flame Alive

     This month’s Recommendation comes from co-hosts Jill Jaracz and Allison Brown and their podcast: Keep the Flame Alive, the podcast for fans of the greatest sporting event in the world.Each week, hosts Jill Jaracz and Alison Brown explore the stories of the Olympics, which is basically the Broadway of sports. They talk to athletes and sports writers as well as coaches and organizers. They explore host cities and sporting histories, showcasing different aspects and perspectives of the Olympic Game

     Oct 26,2020 03:39
141. 141. Charlotte Canning, PhD - The History of Pandemics and Theater Closings

     British historian and philosopher R.G. Collingwood said, "History is for human self knowledge, the only clue to what men can do is what man has done. So with an ongoing pandemic and theaters shut down for the foreseeable future, what can history teach us about dealing with such hardships and what to expect going forward? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this episode with Professor Charlotte Canning, Ph.D, a theatre and performance historian at the University of Texas at Austin.Topics discussed

     Oct 21,2020 52:10
142. 142. Historias Hispanas en Español - Bianca Marroquín, Luis Salgado, Jaime Lozano y Mas

     Bienvenidos y gracias por acompañarnos en esta edición especial de Why I’ll Never Make It!En esta segunda parte de mi serie sobre historias hispanas, escucharán a mis invitados anteriores compartir sus propias historias y experiencias en español.Roberto Araujo - 1:06 Bianca Marroquín - 5:57 Luis Salgado - 11:50 Jaime Lozano - 16:59 Alina Alcántara - 24:43 Tadeo Martinez - 28:39 Cecy Trevino - 30:52 Sin embargo, hay una mujer en este episodio que no ha aparecido anteriormente, Cecy Treviño. De he

     Oct 15,2020 37:05
143. 143. Hispanic Stories in English - Matt Zambrano and Dan Domingues

     This is part one in a series of former Hispanic guests coming back to share their stories in their own words. The second part - la segunda parte - comes out tomorrow and will be en espanol. My original idea was to bring back all Hispanic guests for a single Spanish episode. And I ignorantly assumed they would all want to share stories in that language. But Matt Zambrano and Dan Domingues expressed their hesitation at speaking fluently off the cuff about their experiences. While they speak the la

     Oct 14,2020 37:51
144. 144. FINAL FIVE: Tadeo Martinez, DFW Theater Critics Outstanding Actor

     Welcome back to more conversation with Tadeo Martinez as he answers the Final Five. Tadeo shares two of his favorites pieces of advice and his dream to be on YouTube. He also talks about his award-winning performance in Noises Off in Dallas, Texas.Would you like to be a part of creating an episode? Find out how you can and support this podcast at the same time: https://ko-fi.com/winmi/commissions      ----------     For further insights on the topics covered in this episode: twitter.com/winmipod

     Oct 09,2020 14:09
145. 145. Hispanic Heritage Month - Tadeo Martinez, BFA in Theater from SMU

     When it comes to the guests on this podcast most of them are fairly well established. This allows me to the Google them, find pictures and stories about them, and get to know their body of work. But for Tadeo Martinez, there wasn’t much to go on. I found a couple of show reviews and his website.Now, this is no slight on Tadeo. I didn’t have much either coming out of college. But what I did find certainly gave me enough cause to bring him on the podcast, especially when I read of his desire to br

     Oct 07,2020 55:43
146. 146. FINAL FIVE: Bianca Marroquín, who played Chita Rivera in FOSSE

     Well, I hope you listened to our previous conversation because Bianca is back to answer the Final Five questions. She shares her disappointment in not getting to play Evita but also her joy to portray Chita Rivera in the hit TV show Fosse. She also goes deeper into her love of family and being a stepmom.Would you like to answer the Final Five questions? Let me know at winmipodcast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is some

     Oct 02,2020 13:24
147. 147. Hispanic Heritage Month - Bianca Marroquín, CHICAGO’s Roxie Hart

     In today's wide-ranging conversation with Bianca Marroquin, one of the issues she addresses is that of language and accent. Growing up near the Texas border, she had the opportunity to learn both languages. So in addition to being the first Mexican woman ever to land a leading role on Broadway, she is also the only one ever to do Chicago in two different languages.Yet in the 18 years since the Broadway debut as Roxie Hart, she has still faced confusing and ignorant statements from casting direct

     Sep 30,2020 01:03:40
148. 148. WINMI Recommends: The Industry with Dan Delgado

     Well, it's the last Monday of the month, so that means it's time for this month's podcast recommendation: THE INDUSTRY, hosted by Dan Delgado.Every week Why I’ll Never Make It likes to highlight and dive into the areas that hold us back as artists, the realities of this business with all of its ups and downs. Sometimes we find success and other times, like now, we face hardship and/or failure. So when I happened upon a television and movie podcast that did the same thing, focusing on lesser know

     Sep 28,2020 04:19
149. 149. Hispanic Heritage Month - Luis Salgado, Reaching New HEIGHTS Through Dance

     Luis Salgado was born and raised in Puerto Rico and studied theater there at the University of Puerto Rico. He moved to New York City in 2012 and it was slow going at first for him to book work. But eventually things started to click for him and his career as featured as many credits on stage as off stage, behind the scenes, in addition to film and television work. But this year has not been kind to so many artists, and work has come to a grinding halt. And so Luis brought himself and his family

     Sep 23,2020 59:16
150. 150. FINAL FIVE: Jaime Lozano, Voting Member of the Grammys and Latin Grammys

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Jaime talks about the process of voting on songs and albums for the Grammys, and then he answers the Final Five. He shares his love of Law & Order and his dream to work with Lin-Manuel Miranda as well as what he learns from those who are humble.The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each

     Sep 18,2020 16:18
151. 151. Hispanic Heritage Month - Jaime Lozano, Musical Theater Composer

     For the next few weeks WINMI is going to be highlighting some amazing Hispanic artists, ranging from composers and dancers to actors and singers. And it's all in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month. In addition to these interviews I’ll be showcasing important creatives in Hispanic history. It’ll be a chance for us to learn about the wonderful artists who have made such an impact not only in Hispanic communities but to our nation as a whole. And so we begin Hispanic Heritage Month with Jaim

     Sep 16,2020 54:41
152. 152. You Too Can Be an #ArtsHero with Carson Elrod and Brooke Ishibashi

     Mid-March of this year was a uniquely devastating time for theater and the arts industry as a whole. Broadway and Off-Broadway here in New York as well as theaters all around the country began to close for what they thought would be a possible one-month shut down. At the time playwright Lynn Nottage tweeted: “Emotionally and financially preparing for theaters across the country to be shut down. Mourning the beautiful work that will be lost. Alas, protecting our practitioners and our audiences is

     Sep 09,2020 35:54
153. 153. FINAL FIVE: Alex Pires

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Alex answers the Final Five. He shares his love of Christopher Nolan movies and his dream to be on Law & Order: SVU as well as what he learned from Will Smith and Michelle Obama.Check out Alex's web series: P's in a Pod      ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each epis

     Sep 04,2020 16:44
154. 154. Alex Pires - Actor and Writer of the Comedy Web Series P’s in a Pod

     The process of getting an idea, a story from conception to production to finally being onstage or onscreen can be a rather lengthy process. Hamilton took seven years and La La Land was almost nine. Alex Pires is another one of those with plenty of ideas. He’s an actor who came to NYC with a mission to not only act but to write as well. But as we know having the idea is just the first step on a long journey towards actually seeing it come to life.His comedy web series P's in a Pod released its Pi

     Sep 02,2020 46:32
155. 155. WINMI Recommends: The Tony Howell Podcast

     For the second month in a row Why I’ll Never Make It goes outside its own podcast walls to recommend another podcaster doing great work in the arts or beyond. The first one was The Ensemblist as part of the episode with Mo Brady. And this month features a recommendation of another one inside the creative arts as well as a former WINMI guest: The Tony Howell Podcast.Tony is a former actor and singer who has now become a highly sought-after author, speaker, and expert in digital marketing and bran

     Aug 31,2020 03:15
156. 156. FINAL FIVE: Bart Shatto

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Bart Shatto answers the Final Five. He shares his broadcasting aspirations and his dream to do all the roles I've done as well as what he learned from Albert Einstein and Booker T. Washington.Also, check out his latest project, coming up in October, the 2020 New Works Virtual Festival. Twenty plays in seven days! Everything from full-length plays and short plays to TV pilots and screenplays. It features a star-studded lineup, including Oscar nomine

     Aug 28,2020 16:29
157. 157. Bart Shatto - Broadway Veteran on Maintaining Creativity and Artistic Power

     Broadway is no cure against challenges or setbacks. Bart Shatto has experienced the joys and the hardships of a life in theater, both personally and professionally. He gives an open and vulnerable look at how this business can create wonderful moments and powerful lessons.Bart particularly shares his time with WAR PAINT, playing opposite Patti LuPone, as well as being in the cast of Tom Kitt's SUPERHERO and dealing with the negative reviews. Even I, the host, open up about the lowest point in my

     Aug 26,2020 01:01:41
158. 158. FINAL FIVE: Jason Odell Williams

     Thanks for coming back to join me and Jason Odell Williams for the final five! This is a bonus episode to the conversation we had previously, covering topics and five specific questions we didn’t address on the last episode. Today, Jason talks about how his teachers inspired him and how he's still learning to process and handle criticism and feedback. Take the survey & join the WINMI newsletter - whyillnevermakeit.com       ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and con

     Aug 21,2020 12:35
159. 159. Jason Odell Williams - Playwright and Producer Walking the Line Between Stage and Screen

     Jason Odell Williams is an award-winning playwright and Emmy-nominated television producer. But his first love was acting...until it wasn't. In this episode he shares that journey from saying the words to writing them.We specifically talk about his plays Handle With Care and Church & State, both of which were produced by his wife (and former WINMI guest) Charlotte Cohn. He opens up about his difficulty with taking criticism and how different writing is from the stage to small screen, especially

     Aug 19,2020 59:54
160. 160. FINAL FIVE: Eric Jordan Young

     Well, here we are at the Final Five questions, a bonus episode to our previous conversation. Eric is back and shares his passion for branding and being a stylist. He also mentions what distinguishes Gayle King and why he'd love to pick her brain as well as the two distinct life lessons he learned from his parents.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at winmipodcast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each wee

     Aug 14,2020 09:51
161. 161. Eric Jordan Young - Broadway Actor and Singer on the Importance of Letting the Work Inspire You

     During his years in New York City, Eric Jordan Young bounced around from Broadway productions and national tours to regional shows and concerts. According to most performers, he was living the dream.But he wanted something else, we wanted something more. So Eric branched out into his own endeavors, from a solo recording album to a one-man tribute to Sammy Davis, Jr. Along the way he met some challenges and found out he knew more about the show than he did the business.And Vegas became the testin

     Aug 12,2020 48:08
162. 162. FINAL FIVE: David Ruttura

     After our conversation on the previous episode, David answers the Final Five. He shares his political aspirations, what he's learned from Broadway directors as well as where the best ideas come from.Do you have other questions you'd like to ask? Let me know at winmipodcast.com and fill out the survey.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support

     Aug 07,2020 14:25
163. 163. David Ruttura - Broadway’s Associate Director of Plays and Musicals Cuts Loose

     David and I first met last year as he directed the 90-minute version of FOOTLOOSE on Norwegian Cruise Line. But In New York, he spends his time working with some of the best directors on Broadway from SCHOOL OF ROCK and BEAUTIFUL to LOMBARDI and NETWORK (starring Bryan Cranston).As assistant director, I ask what's kept him from being In the top spot as well as what he think of cruise ship productions. But the show I really focus on is the most reviewed and vilified Broadway show so far this cent

     Aug 05,2020 54:04
164. 164. FINAL FIVE: Mo Brady

     Thanks for coming back to join me and Mo for the final five! This is a bonus conversation covering topics and five specific questions we didn’t address on the last episode. Today, Mo talks about his love of NEXT TO NORMAL and how Susan Blackwell from TITLE OF SHOW inspires him.  Don't forget to check out all the offers and resources available to you through WINMI: resources.winmipodcast.com  Follow Mo: Instagram / Twitter Follow WINMI: Instagram / Twitter / Blog Donate to the podcast: https://ko

     Jul 31,2020 05:32
165. 165. Mo Brady - Broadway Actor/Podcaster Advocating and Supporting the Ensemblist Community

     Co-creator of The Ensemblist podcast and blog shares his love of theater, especially for those out of the spotlight and in the ensemble. Mo Brady grew up building sets and imagining a life on the stage. After finally getting his Broadway debut, two other more personal roles came his way: husband and father. But he still manages to keep up the podcasting and working on the communications team at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. http://www.theensemblist.com/podcasts Don't forget to check out all

     Jul 29,2020 52:35
166. 166. Erin Cronican (Part 2) - Taking Theater Online and Streaming

     Instead of answering the Final Five questions, Erin Cronican continues our conversation on producing theater for the online world as well as some insight into her cooking habits (or lack thereof). For now, COVID has ended live theater as we know it, and digital platforms have become a new home for actors and writers to reach audiences. So Erin shares how she's made it work and how Actors Equity Association has (not) helped. Follow Erin: Instagram / Twitter  - Donate to the The Seeing Place  Foll

     Jul 24,2020 12:14
167. 167. Erin Cronican (Part 1) - Producing Theater in the Midst of COVID and Cancer

     Erin Cronican first came on the podcast back in Season One, sharing the ups and downs of making theater while still being an actor. Today, she faces new challenges of producing theater in the middle of a pandemic while also battling cancer once again.She opens up about her very real and present reality, just living 3 months at a time. Legacy has become very important to her, and through our conversation she shares insights into living with a terminal illness and how it changes the way she approa

     Jul 22,2020 51:39
168. 168. FINAL FIVE: Chaz Wolcott Shares an Audition Story

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Chaz answers the Final Five. But first, he shares a hilarious audition story, then goes into his dream to work in physical therapy as well as how he learned the importance of preparation. ----------     Jazz with Chaz - resources.winmipodcast.comGive your feedback - survey.winmipodcast.comSupport WINMI - donate.winmipodcast.com

     Jul 17,2020 14:22
169. 169. Chaz Wolcott - Choreographer and Dancer Goes from NEWSIES to a New Normal

     Chaz started dancing at the age of 2in Gahanna, Ohio, and several years later he won the Gold Medal at the US Tap Championships and then won Bronze for the United States at the World Tap Dance Championships in Germany at the age of 14. From his BFA in Musical Theatre Dance to serving as dance captain in the American Spirit Dance Company, Chaz has led a busy life on his feet.And so it was that I first met Chaz Wolcott at a regional theater in upstate New York during a production of MARY POPPINS.

     Jul 15,2020 57:17
170. 170. FINAL FIVE: Brian Lowdermilk

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Brian answers the Final Five, talking about software engineering and his dream to fix CHESS as well as lessons learned from Elizabeth Gilbert.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodcast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes in

     Jul 10,2020 08:35
171. 171. Brian Lowdermilk - LGBTQ Composer and Songwriter from Kerrigan & Lowdermilk

     Featuring the third composer of the season, Brian Lowdermilk is a fantastic contemporary songwriter who's found a great deal of success from the internet. And in this day and age where not much theater is happening onstage, that bodes well for both Kerrigan & Lowdermilk. Brian (they/them, she/her) shares the nuts and bolts of writing and collaborating on musicals (and is joined by Kait for part of the interview). Then we get into more personal matters of gender identity and theater's place in th

     Jul 08,2020 50:01
172. 172. FINAL FIVE: Roberto Araujo

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Roberto answers the Final Five. He shares his love of CBS Sunday Morning and his dream of playing the Baker in INTO THE WOODS as well as that the time he forgot to press the record button.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodcast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying

     Jul 03,2020 15:31
173. 173. Roberto Araujo - Actor, Photographer, and PLAYBILL’s Director of Video Production

     Season 4 Survey: https://winmipodcast.typeform.com/to/SdODaMU7I first got to know Roberto when putting together the Season Three opener with Caroline Bowman. He had taken beautiful photos of her as she was preparing for the National Tour of Disney's FROZEN. I wanted him to come on the show to share his experiences and insights on making the best headshots possible. So get ready to take some notes. Little did I know, though, the backstory and struggles he's been through. From a family unwilling t

     Jul 01,2020 52:04
174. 174. FINAL FIVE: Cris Eli Blak

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Cris answers the Final Five. He shares why he'd love to teach and his dream to be in CATS as well as what he learned from Tyler Perry.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodcast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each

     Jun 26,2020 12:44
175. 175. Cris Eli Blak - African-American Actor, Playwright, Producer, and Poet Shares His Story

     In this longer episode than normal, I am honored and grateful to have this enormously gifted artist on the show. Cris Eli Blak may only be a senior in college, but he has wisdom far beyond his years to share with all of us.From thoughts on the current racial tensions gripping this country to how theater can be a voice in the midst of it, Cris shares from the heart and from his art. He opens up about his own challenges and struggles as a writer, how growing up without a father affected him, and t

     Jun 24,2020 01:14:42
176. 176. Michael Francis McBride - Dancer Who Found Love and Passion at Alvin Ailey

     The third and final look at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater with Michael McBride, a 10-year veteran with the company. Through this organization he not only gained skills and experience in collaborating with some of the best dancers and choreographers on the planet, but he also found the love of his life, Samuel Lee Roberts, a fellow dancer in the company.But it wasn't all smooth sailing for Michael. He's had some hard lessons to learn along the way and he talks about some of those, especi

     Jun 17,2020 46:26
177. 177. Samantha Figgins - Dancer and Ballerina Finds a Home at Alvin Ailey

     Samantha Figgins is currently in her sixth season with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. But what many people don't know is that this gorgeous dancer suffers from single-sided deafness. As a baby, Figgins contracted spinal meningitis, which caused her to lose all hearing in her right ear. She never gave up on her dance dreams, though, and fought her way through uncomfortable situations, never missing an opportunity to learn and grow. In this episode, she shares her love of dance, her passi

     Jun 10,2020 50:02
178. 178. Tribute to Alvin Ailey - Dancer & Choreographer Preserving the African-American Cultural Experience

     When it comes to the performing arts and certainly to dance, there are few people more worthy of admiration, of inspiration and imitation than Alvin Ailey. He was both uniquely gifted and qualified to tell the African-American experience which he lived and saw and reacted to through the art of dance. If you follow me or the podcast on social media, you know that I’m a white man who also grew up in the South. I was certainly witness to and heard tinges of racism growing up, but was fortunately sh

     Jun 03,2020 15:07
179. 179. FINAL FIVE: Douglas Sills

     At the end of our previous insightful conversation, Douglas Sills gave his answers to the Final Five questions. He shares a story of his mentor who recently passed away as well as his interests finance and veterinarian medicine. After his answer to best advice, I kept the recording going and it opened into a deeper conversation about happiness and feeling (un)motivated.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodast.com.     ----------     The time and expens

     May 29,2020 12:59
180. 180. Douglas Sills - Broadway’s Leading Man Almost Led Another Life

     His iconic Broadway debut in SCARLET PIMPERNEL may have made Douglas Sills a Broadway star, but his head has never been in the clouds. In today's episode, he has his feet firmly on the ground and shares how he left the business (twice) and what brought him back.His insights are a seasoned look not only at his career but at the kind of person he wants to be. From understanding luck's role in his career to realizing that having a life means so much more than making a living, Douglas is both confid

     May 27,2020 52:20
181. 181. FINAL FIVE: Mykal Kilgore and Hannah Elless

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Mykal and Hannah answer the Final Five questions. They share stories of the individuals who have inspired them as artists as well as their interests in education and geology. They finish with why it's so important to be on time and the proper place for performance in an artist's life.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodast.com.     ----------     The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conv

     May 22,2020 16:25
182. 182. Hannah Elless & Mykal Kilgore - Broadway Performers Who Crave New Works and Musicals

     Hannah Elless and Mykal Kilgore (and myself) first met doing a reading of a new musical called THE STAR CHILD. They have each gone on to do three Broadway shows, but they still love that new-car smell of a fresh, unknown piece of theater.In today's conversation they explain why new works are so important, how their big families taught them to collaborate, and what success means to them and how they are still striving for it. Plus, they talk about the dream of a Broadway debut versus the reality

     May 20,2020 01:01:10
183. 183. FINAL FIVE: Andrew Lippa

     Welcome back to my talk with Andrew Lippa as he answers the Final Five questions. This is a bonus episode to the conversation we had previously, covering topics we didn't get to last time. From political aspirations to advice he gives to aspiring artists, this is a deeper dive into a talented composer and performer.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodcast.com.     ----------     May this podcast be a resource for you as you discover more ways to pursu

     May 15,2020 08:09
184. 184. Andrew Lippa - Composer and Lyricist on Being a Big Fish in a Little Broadway Pond

     From his first intimate musical, john and jen, to his bigger productions on and off Broadway, Andrew Lippa has been a prolific and award-winning writer. He joins the podcast to talk about his growth along that sometimes bumpy path and what it means to bring a bit of himself into his compositions and lyrics.He shares the disappoints he felt with The Wild Party and Big Fish, the lessons he learned from The Addams Family, and the personal journey he took in becoming Harvey Milk.Learn more about And

     May 13,2020 48:36
185. 185. FINAL FIVE: Hal Luftig

     After our conversation on the previous episode, Hal Luftig answers the Final Five. He shares his love of teaching and his dream to work with Audra McDonald as well as what he learned from famed Broadway producer Emanuel "Manny" Azenberg.Do you have other ideas for Final Five questions? Let me know at contact.winmipodcast.com.---------- May this podcast be a resource for you as you discover more ways to pursue a career in this industry and sustain it through the many ups and downs that follow. Fo

     May 08,2020 10:13
186. 186. Hal Luftig - Broadway Producer Finds Value in the Hit Musicals As Well As the Flops

     Welcome to a month-long look at previous Broadway seasons...the nominations, the wins, and the losses. With four Tony Awards to his name, including two as lead producer, and two Olivier Awards, also as lead producer, Hal Luftig knows and thing or two about theatrical success. But he also knows the pitfalls that come and how not every show finds an audience or makes a lot of money. Today, he shares those insights and more from the heights of success with KINKY BOOTS to his disappointment with the

     May 06,2020 50:56
187. 187. FINAL FIVE: Alina Alcántara

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode with Alina Alcántara! After our last conversation about staying motivated and the joy she found in performing, Alina sat down to answer five questions on topics and insights not covered in the previous episode. She also mentioned mutual friend and fellow artist Juan Cantu as someone who inspires her both personally and professionally.If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope t

     May 01,2020 08:46
188. 188. Alina Alcántara - Actress and Singer Found Passion and Purpose in Theater

     Former flight attendant Alina Alcántara is a New York native of Dominican heritage, who has lived in Florida for most of her life. And in this episode she shares the rocky road to finding her true calling in life as an actor and singer. But even with this love and passion for performing she has her bad days of feeling inferior and unmotivated. So what keeps her going? Her story will inspire you and put a smile in your heart.Follow her online and social media:twitter.com/BroadwayBaby73 instagram.

     Apr 29,2020 42:34
189. 189. FINAL FIVE: Seán Cullen

     It's been a month-long break, so welcome back to the FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode!After our last conversation, Seán answers five final questions not covered in the previous episode. He talks about his bucket list Sondheim musical and reveals his comedic idol... If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait that took you awhile to le

     Apr 24,2020 11:21
190. 190. Seán Cullen - Stand-up Comedian and Actor on the Serious Business of Being Funny

     Seán Cullen is a Canadian actor, voice artist and stand-up comedian, known for combining improvisation with mimicry and music. He joins me today to share his love of comedy and writing books for his children. But we also dive into the worries and frustrations that come from almost making it and how to bounce back from a canceled show or that inner voice saying we aren't good enough.Follow Seán on Twitter - https://twitter.com/mrseancullen Listen to his podcast - http://www.theseanpod.com/ Watch

     Apr 22,2020 59:20
191. 191. Financial Wellness (Part 2) Rebecca Selkowe from The Actors Fund, COVID Edition

     In the last episode, Rebecca Selkowe reminded us of the groundwork needed to organize and manage our money. Today, she brings it to the present with useful tips and insights we can use during times of crisis like COVID-19.For more on how The Actors Fund can help you (or ways you can donate to them) go to actorsfund.org and for a mental and artistic break from the daily grind go to starsinthehouse.com, hosted by Seth Rudetsky & James Wesley and benefiting The Actors Fund.----------Do you have spe

     Apr 17,2020 33:25
192. 192. Financial Wellness (Part 1) Rebecca Selkowe from The Actors Fund (REWIND)

     Since 1955, April 15th has been Tax Day, until this year...the year of COVID-19 and economic uncertainty. With so many unemployed, especially those of us in the arts, what are we to do. How can we manage our money? What money!?In this episode, I'm sharing my conversation a year ago with Rebecca Selkowe, author of DOMINATE YOUR DEBT and head of the Financial Wellness Program at the Actors Fund in New York City. This is part one, where she gives us the basics of how we need to approach financial m

     Apr 15,2020 52:27
193. 193. Laziness - How Doing Less Can Bring More Success (Bite-Size Edition)

     Overcome with laziness and procrastination, feeling unmotivated, stuck, and just can’t get started? Believe me, you are not alone. But there is hope when mired in such complacency. However, it may not be the solution you think it is. You and I were taught from an early age that we need to stay busy and keep moving. And while the intent behind those ideals was good, putting them into practice is neither easy nor always helpful. In this episode, I consider what we do as artists and the energy we e

     Apr 08,2020 17:00
194. 194. Social Distancing - A Special Coronavirus Conversation with Clayton Howe

     Well, coronavirus is all people can talk about. It has completely changed our daily lives and interactions with others, especially in the world of theater. So I wanted to address it head on with friend-of-the-podcast Clayton Howe. We share how each of us lost our jobs and what we're doing now to keep going and make it through this extraordinary time in the world. I also give 5 ways we as artists can regain control during a very uncertain moment in our lives and careers: Commitment, Outside, Vari

     Apr 01,2020 44:37
195. 195. FINAL FIVE: Tiffany Coyne

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! After our last conversation Tiffany answers five final questions not covered in the previous episode. She talks about how she still hopes to do musical theater one day and opens up about her late father and the lessons he taught her... If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait tha

     Mar 27,2020 13:40
196. 196. Tiffany Coyne - LET’S MAKE A DEAL Co-Host & Former Vegas Dancer (Women’s History Month)

     Whether as sidekick or the lady in charge, Tiffany Coyne has made her mark on the popular game show LET'S MAKE A DEAL. She can keep up with Wayne Brady and holds her own in the chaotic fun of each episode.Starting out as a dancer, she had no thoughts or goals toward television. But when the time came and the support of family, she and her husband made the decision to leave their lives in Las Vegas for what has become an 11-year residence in Los Angeles and the stability to raise two beautiful ch

     Mar 25,2020 42:44
197. 197. FINAL FIVE: Charlotte Cohn

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! After our conversation on Wednesday about opera and directing, Charlotte gave her answers to five questions and topics not covered in the main interview.Also, in honor of Women's History Month, this week's Broadway pioneer is Vinnette Justine Carroll, PhD. As an actress and playwright and later as a director, she holds the distinction of many firsts in theater and television: first black female to direct on Broadway as well as receive a Tony nominatio

     Mar 20,2020 16:02
198. 198. Charlotte Cohn - Former Tank Commander & Opera Singer Finds Her Voice in Theater (Women’s History Month)

     Charlotte Cohn was born in Denmark and raised in Israel where she served in the Israeli Army as a commanding officer. She was a founding producer of the New York Music Theatre Festival (NYMF) and MainStreet Musicals. Other producing credits include Rated P For Parenthood, The New York Times critics’ pick Handle With Care and Church & State.In this episode she chronicles her journey from commander to singer, from Broadway actress to Off-Broadway producer and director. Despite the setbacks faced a

     Mar 18,2020 58:49
199. 199. MAESTRA MUSIC with Georgia Stitt, Advocating Women Musicians in Theater (Women’s History Month)

     MAESTRA MUSIC was founded by composer/lyricist and music director Georgia Stitt to give support, visibility, and community to the women who make the music in the musical theater industry. Their membership is made up of female-identifying, non-binary, and gender non-conforming composers, music directors, orchestrators, arrangers, copyists, rehearsal pianists and other musicians who are an underrepresented minority in musical theater.For Women's History Month, Georgia continues our conversation fr

     Mar 13,2020 40:34
200. 200. Georgia Stitt - Composer, Lyricist, and Music Director (Women’s History Month)

     GEORGIA STITT (georgiastitt.com) is a composer and lyricist whose original musicals include Snow Bird, Big Red Sun, The Water, and Samantha Spade, Ace Detective, which was the National Youth Theatre “Outstanding New Musical” in 2014. She is currently working on the The Big Boom with Hunter Foster and is also preparing to release her third album later this year.  Now I haven’t even gotten to her work as producer, music supervisor, pianist, orchestrator, vocal coach, music director, and conductor.

     Mar 11,2020 41:13
201. 201. FINAL FIVE: Abigail Rose Solomon

     After our in-depth discussion on producing in NYC and balancing that with an acting career, Abigail now shares bucket lists and who she looks up to. These final five questions get into topics and insights not covered in our previous conversation.If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait that took you awhile to learn or one t

     Mar 06,2020 08:29
202. 202. Abigail Rose Solomon - Actress and Broadway Producer of Musicals and Plays (Women’s History Month)

     For the first episode of Women's History Month, I'm talking to New York-Los Angeles actress and producer Abigail Rose Solomon, who founded Rosalind Productions in 2005.We talk about the differences between acting and producing NYC and LA as well as her process of finding shows and working on them with other producers and creatives.Rosalind Productions' credits include THE PROM, THREE TALL WOMEN, WAR PAINT, THE LAST SEDER, PROOF, and AS YOU LIKE IT.Also, this week's female Broadway pioneer is Che

     Mar 04,2020 57:19
203. 203. More AUDITION STORIES 2020 with Lauren Kennedy, Justin Guarini and others!

     On the second half of AUDITION STORIES we dive into the comparison game with Justin Guarini. This kind of jealousy is so common to actors and affects us in the audition room more than we know.Former guests share their experiences from onstage to on-camera, from the wonderful to the embarrassing, and everything in-between. (Listen to Part One as well.)Those featured in this episode:JUSTIN GUARINI - "Comparison Trap" (Audition Secrets podcast)LAUREN KENNEDY - Artistic Director of Theatre RaleighME

     Feb 26,2020 43:16
204. 204. AUDITION STORIES 2020 with Caroline Bowman, Kelvin Moon Loh and more!

     The 2nd Annual Auditions Stories is here! And this is only part one...focusing on the Audition Book and debunking 5 myths about what this book is supposed to be.The typical audition book has at least 20 songs (or monologues).It must contain material from every genre and era."Show your range" means to hit your highest note.You don't need the full song in your book.It doesn't have to have a table of contents.Here are the former guests featured in this episode with all-new stories from the audition

     Feb 19,2020 49:06
205. 205. SING FOR YOUR SENIORS with Founder & Producing Artistic Director Jackie Vanderbeck (Spotlight)

     Throughout history artists have known that music provides benefits for both the creator and the listener. It can affect individuals in positive ways by inducing both psychological and physiological healing. This is especially true in the senior community.  Sing For Your Seniors is a nonprofit built around the mission of enriching lives through the universal language of music. They bring professional artists to the communities of seniors in need...to entertain them, to foster inter-generational c

     Feb 12,2020 58:59
206. 206. American Sign Language for Theater - Providing Access to Deaf Audiences with ASL Interpreters

     This podcast mainly focuses on the artist and the creative, the actor or composer or director, etc. But in today’s episode I’m turning the tables and focusing on the audience, specifically those who are deaf and hard of hearing. Their access to what we do onstage is often limited and often times they can’t make it to the theater because there is no way provided for them to understand what is happening. That’s where sign language interpreters come in and provide access for this underserved commun

     Feb 05,2020 31:52
207. 207. Dave Jackson - Hall of Fame Podcaster on How and Why Actors Should Start a Podcast

     This is a special episode where someone I consider to be one of the best in podcasting joins the show to discuss what he's learned about this growing medium and how we as artists can use this as another outlet for our creativity.Dave Jackson has been podcasting since April of 2005. His School of Podcasting has been downloaded nearly 2 million times, and he has helped hundreds of people launch podcasts. He was also inducted into the Academy of Podcasters Hall of Fame in 2018. And now he's here to

     Jan 29,2020 52:12
208. 208. FINAL FIVE: Megan Carver

     Welcome to the FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode with Megan Carver!After our in-depth discussion on finding our artistic niche and creating work for ourselves, we then chatted about others job and where inspiration comes from. These final five questions are posed to each guest on topics and insights not covered in our previous conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Megan Carver...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a

     Jan 24,2020 08:13
209. 209. Megan Carver - Actress, Producer, Writer, and Filmmaker

     Whether in life or her profession, Megan lives by three simple mottos...Work Hard  •  Be Kind  •  Stay Classy  •And it is these ideals that led her to turn a punch to the gut into another creative outlet for finding work and fulfilling her passion. She opens up about the tough road she faced coming to NYC from Oregon and what propelled her into a world on the page and behind the camera. She's got a lot of wisdom and insight to share today...this is a jam-packed episode!Here are links to what she

     Jan 22,2020 46:20
210. 210. FINAL FIVE: Remy Germinario

     Thanks for joining me and Remy for this week's FINAL FIVE!After our discussion of the rigors and challenges of stand-up comedy, we got down to the serious business of bucket lists and sage advice. (I even throw in a new Final Five questions just for Remy.) The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Mr. Germinario...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to

     Jan 17,2020 08:59
211. 211. Remy Germinario - Theater Actor Finding Another Stage with Improv and Stand-Up Comedy

     I first met Remy Germinario while taking improv classes at Upright Citizens Brigade in NYC. He’s an actor as well as a comedian, and he shares how he got into stand-up and how we as creatives wear many hats and have to showcase many talents.  It was a few months ago that I was at an audition and ran into Remy. It had been awhile since our UCB classes together, and we started talking about all the stand-up he’s been doing and it absolutely fascinated and surprised me as to what all actually goes

     Jan 15,2020 51:14
212. 212. FINAL FIVE: Miata Edoga

     Welcome to the first FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode of 2020!These are five questions I ask each guest on topics and insights not covered in our main conversation on Wednesday. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Miata Edoga...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait that took you awhile to lear

     Jan 10,2020 09:14
213. 213. Miata Edoga - TV/Film Actress & Financial Coach with Abundance Bound

     Miata Edoga is the President and Founder of Abundance Bound, the premiere financial education company for actors, artists, and creative entrepreneurs.She created The Artist’s Prosperity System, which has provided thousands of creatives with a specific, step-by-step process to significantly improve their financial situation – giving them more time, energy, and freedom to focus on their creative careers and artistic pursuits.** To join Miata in her MASTERY LEVEL FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM, go t

     Jan 08,2020 59:04
214. 214. A Look Back at 2019

     Welcome to the 2nd Anniversary episode of the podcast! And what a year it has been!We’ve had wonderful guests from actors and singers to stage managers and artistic directors. And this episode is a look back at some of the best moments from the past year as well as a look ahead to what’s in store for 2020. There’s a mix of previous released conversations and new clips never heard before now. I share clips from the popular Audition Stories episode, and then I highlight and critique the very first

     Dec 28,2019 36:30
215. 215. Artists Striving to End Poverty / ASTEP with Samantha Manfred (Spotlight)

     ASTEP was conceived by Broadway Musical Director Mary-Mitchell Campbell and Juilliard students. It’s goal was to transform the lives of youth using the most powerful tool they had: their art. Today, ASTEP connects performing and visual artists with youth from underserved communities in the U.S. and around the world to awaken their imaginations, foster critical thinking, and help them break the cycle of poverty. ASTEP is deeply committed to empowering individuals who suffer from an absence of cho

     Dec 18,2019 42:38
216. 216. FINAL FIVE: Mike Isaacson

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions I'll be asking each guest all season long, as they give concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Jenny Stafford...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or

     Dec 13,2019 09:59
217. 217. Mike Isaacson - Artistic Director of the Muny on the Challenges of Producing Broadway Musicals

     Mike Isaacson has led the Muny for almost ten years and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. In this episode he shares not only the challenges of producing 7 musicals in 10 weeks each summer, but he also opens up about his Tony Award winning Broadway ventures, Fun Home and Thoroughly Modern Millie. These shows almost didn’t happen, yet their eventual success proved that listening to your heart and to an audience are ultimately more important that listening to critics.Follow Mike on socia

     Dec 11,2019 45:55
218. 218. FINAL FIVE: Jenny Stafford

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions I'll be asking each guest all season long, as they give concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Jenny Stafford...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or

     Dec 06,2019 10:25
219. 219. Jenny Stafford - Lyricist on Writing, Collaboration, and the Day Broadway Called

     In the entertainment industry, we are all essentially storytellers. But there is one among us who is the spark and drive of those stories...the writer. Jenny Stafford is a prolific lyricist and book writer with her work featured on and off Broadway as well as regional and children's theaters across the country.She has a lot to share about her own journey and what led her back home to Denver, Colorado where she found herself at a crossroads, not only in her career but in her life as well. We talk

     Dec 04,2019 54:12
220. 220. Five Reasons Artists Have to Be Thankful (Bite Size Episode)

     Happy Thanksgiving! We’ve all been with our families and gone around the proverbial table to say what we are grateful for. Well, it’s my turn and this episode is dedicated to YOU, who listen and follow and support this podcast. I mention a few listeners by name for their extra dedication to the WINMI community. Also, I go through 5 reason each of us as artists should be thankful this holiday season…and all year round. There are many reasons that hold us back or get in the way of our dreams, but

     Nov 27,2019 15:53
221. 221. FINAL FIVE: Misha Osherovich

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions I'll be asking each guest all season long, as they give concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Misha Osherovich...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson o

     Nov 22,2019 07:32
222. 222. Misha Osherovich - Actor and Filmmaker on Body Image and His Own Battle with an Eating Disorder

     Misha Osherovich is a Russian-American actor, filmmaker, and mental health/LGBTQ+ activist.  Misha's latest short film E.VERY D.AY is currently screening at festivals internationally. The film is autobiographical - written and produced by Misha - that gives the audience a look inside the minds of people affected by eating disorders and distorted body image. You can also catch Misha in AMC's new series NOS4A2.  He can also be seen in theaters in Warner Bros' new film THE GOLDFINCH. Follow Misha o

     Nov 20,2019 55:21
223. 223. FINAL FIVE: Janine DiVita

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions I'll be asking each guest all season long, as they give concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Janine DiVita...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or t

     Nov 15,2019 07:40
224. 224. Janine DiVita - Broadway Actress on Maintaining the Voice and Surviving Under Pressure

     This is part two of my conversation with Janine DiVita. Last time was a Spotlight episode on her work with the USO Show Troupe. In this episode she and I dig into what drives her as an actor and singer, the choices she’s made in her career, and how she maintains a work/life balance since getting married.Janine opens up about going to therapy and how it’s helped her focus on what truly matters, especially in auditions. She also shares what is was like filling in for Idena Menzel in the Broadway m

     Nov 13,2019 44:00
225. 225. USO SHOW TROUPE with Janine DiVita for National Military Families Month (Spotlight)

     November is National Military Families Month, and in honor of that I have Janine DiVita joining me today to talk about her work with the USO Show Troupe in New York City.Now when most people think of the USO, the first thing that comes to mind, understandably, is the legendary entertainer Bob Hope, who first performed for U.S. troops in California in May 1941, just a few months before the Pearl Harbor. But the USO is certainly much more then any one celebrity. It’s mission is to strengthen Ameri

     Nov 06,2019 28:01
226. 226. Megan Hoxie - Actress in Norwegian Cruise Line’s FOOTLOOSE on Scene Work and Taking Notes

     As I’ve mentioned since the beginning of the season, I’m currently in a production of FOOTLOOSE on Norwegian Cruise lines. And so on today’s episode I’m talk about the show and the process of putting it together now that we’ve opened here on the ship, Also, joining me is fellow actor Megan Hoxie who plays the role of Ariel in the show. After that conversation I answer a listener question about cruise ships and resumes. Reach out with your own questions or comments at contact.winmipodcast.com.  Y

     Oct 30,2019 49:15
227. 227. KU Talent Agency and Artsplosure with Terri Dollar (Bite Size)

     Welcome back to part two of my conversation with Terri Dollar. In the previous episode we focused on STAR, her program working with special needs theater artists in Raleigh.Normally this would be another Final Five episode. However, after our initial conversation about her work with special needs actors I had a lot more questions about the other work that she does. So today in this bite-sized episode we chat about her talent agency and what she looks for in actors she represents as well as how s

     Oct 25,2019 25:33
228. 228. Terri Dollar - Arts Director Working with Special Needs Actors in Raleigh

     If you ever feel like you can’t do something or or get down about hard this business is, then this episode it for you (and me). Terri Dollar shares her own story of working with special needs actors in Raleigh, NC. She talks about the commitment and dedication they put into each class and performance and how hard she pushes them to do their very best at all times. You’re bound to walk away from this episode with a greater appreciation of the work we do as artists and how it can truly change live

     Oct 23,2019 56:52
229. 229. FINAL FIVE: Lauren Kennedy

     Welcome to another FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions each guest will be asked all season long, giving concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to Lauren Kennedy...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait t

     Oct 18,2019 06:45
230. 230. Lauren Kennedy - Broadway Actress and Theatre Raleigh Artistic Director on Auditioning and Being Your Authentic Self

     Having worked with Lauren at Theatre Raleigh on BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, she joins the podcast today to talk about her transition from Broadway back to doing theater in her hometown of Raleigh. From her time growing up and studying theater in college to landing her first Broadway show and ultimately deciding to direct, she shares her own experiences in auditions and what she now looks for on the other side of the table. It's a great conversation about the business and how she found fulfillment

     Oct 16,2019 42:16
231. 231. FINAL FIVE: Bret Shuford

     These are the five questions I'll be asking each guest all season long, giving concise and focused insights not covered in our conversations on Wednesday. If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait that took you awhile to learn or one that you are still learning to this day?What’s the best advice you’ve received?Today, Bret t

     Oct 11,2019 04:13
232. 232. Bret Shuford - Broadway Actor and Life Coach on Being Sober and Dealing with Our Inner Critic

     Bret Shuford has dedicated his life to creating theatre. Most recently, he played Robbie in Cirque Du Soleil’s Paramour. Other credits include Broadway shows, national tours, and principal roles in feature films; including Martin Scorsese's The Wolf Of Wall Street.  As the Broadway Life Coach, Bret helps people find their full potential, get clear about their purpose, and create balance and self-confidence.He also gives us all a chance to be a part of his FIVE-DAY BALANCE ON BROADWAY CHALLENGE.

     Oct 09,2019 47:07
233. 233. FINAL FIVE: Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee

     The very first FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions each guest will be asked all season long, giving concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to both Bowman and Ghee...If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be?What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day?Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you.Name a lesson or trait

     Oct 04,2019 11:31
234. 234. Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee (Part 2) How to Handle Criticism and the Importance of Recognizing Your Gifts

     Welcome to Season Three and part two of my interview with J. and Caroline! These two Broadway performers join me to share their own journey to the Great White Way. We also discuss how to deal with detractors, handling disappointment in auditions, and finding confidence in being yourself.Caroline Bowman has played Elphaba in WICKED, Eva Peron on the EVITA National Tour, and is Elsa in the current National Tour of FROZEN. J. Harrison Ghee has performed in Tokyo Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, and t

     Oct 02,2019 29:22
235. 235. Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee (Part 1) Their Broadway Debuts in KINKY BOOTS and Leadership in a Cast

     Welcome to Season Three! These two Broadway performers join me for three episodes to share their own journey to the Great White Way. We also discuss the pressure of playing a leading role, handling criticism, and knowing who you are.Caroline Bowman has played Elphaba in WICKED, Eva Peron on the EVITA National Tour, and is Elsa in the current National Tour of FROZEN. J. Harrison Ghee has performed in Tokyo Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, and taken on the role of Lola in KINKY BOOTS.In fact, this p

     Sep 30,2019 41:15
236. 236. Broadway Closings and Listener Questions (Bite-Size Edition)

     A surprise bonus episode this summer...I just couldn't stay away! And also introducing the first-ever listener question.- First and foremost, I'd love to hear from you and get your thoughts on this podcast. Share what you love and especially what bothers you about WINMI episodes or the blog or the online presence. It's all fair game in the Season Two Feedback Survey: survey.winmipodcast.com- There's also been a slew of Broadway show closings announced recently. By summer's end 16 shows will be g

     Aug 07,2019 15:54
237. 237. Ben Davis - Broadway Actor and Singer, Tony Award Honoree

     For the final episode of Season 2, Ben Davis joins me in St. Louis to talk about the life of an actor on the road and in New York. His accomplishments on Broadway and elsewhere are many and magnificent, from his award-winning turn in La Boheme to the epic leading man in BBC's Kiss Me, Kate. His journey is both inspiring and instructive in what it means to make it. "Davis' seductive baritone is swoon-worthy."-Fran Scheck, The Hollywood ReporterFollow Ben on Instagram and Twitter and see more on h

     Jun 24,2019 54:48
238. 238. Ethan Paisley - Filmmaker, Director, Producer and Speaker

     Audition season is winding up here in New York City as we prepare for the summer months. I hope you have some good plans for the summer. For myself, I will be doing a couple of shows: one in St. Louis the other in Raleigh. My special guest today is also keeping himself busy. Ethan Paisley is a writer, producer, and director, with a TV series this summer on DVD Netflix called Set Life. Other projects include the feature film .453 which is on Amazon, two films that have screened at the Cannes Film

     Jun 17,2019 45:45
239. 239. Thoughts on the 2019 Tony Awards (Bite-Size Edition)

     The Tonys have all been handed out and another Broadway Season comes to a close. While the trophies themselves are the main attraction, it was really the speeches and heart of the awards ceremony this year that captivated my attention and truly moved me.I talk about some inspiring acceptance speeches from winners like Andre DeShields, Rachel Chavkin, and Ali Stroker as well as the acceptance speech Sam Mendes never gave. Then, I give some background to one of the names In Memoriam that was a fir

     Jun 10,2019 19:28
240. 240. Sherryl-Lee Secomb - Actor, Director, Marketer, and An Idiot On Stage

     Welcome to WINMI's first international episode!Joining me on the show today is Sherryl-Lee Secomb from Australia. With over thirty-five years on stage, creating roles in musical theatre, farce and dramatic works, she began working as a freelance theatre director, creating large scale musical theatre productions in her home town of Brisbane, Australia.​In 2011, she was appointed as Communications & Online Marketing Manager to Savoyards Musical Comedy Society, a large community-based theatre compa

     Jun 03,2019 51:58
241. 241. Tony Awards - BEETLEJUICE with Kelvin Moon Loh

     The third and final Awards Season Bonus Episode features Kelvin Moon Loh of BEETLEJUICE, nominated for eight Tony Awards.We discuss his audition for the role of Otho...or rather lack of an audition. Then there's the other fellow performers who Kelvin simply gushes about, sharing his love and gratitude for such a wonderful group to perform with. But we also delve into the business itself and what keeps us going and how to treasure the moments along the way.It's wonderful and far-reaching chat abo

     Jun 01,2019 01:03:19
242. 242. Ariel Estrada - Actor, Producer, Founder of Leviathan Lab

     Broadway is all abuzz with the latest shows and performances making all the headlines. But theater in New York is so much more than what happens on the great white way. There's important and significant work being done off-Broadway and by theater companies around the city. One such company is Leviathan Lab, and today I'm talking to Ariel Estrada . . . an actor, singer, arts advocate, producer, and Founder of Leviathan Lab. They are an award-winning not-for-profit creative studio whose mission is

     May 27,2019 55:45
243. 243. Drama Desk Awards - FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (IN YIDDISH) with James Monroe Stevko

     Having already won the Best Musical award from the Outer Critics Circle. James Monroe Stevko and the entire FIDDLER cast and crew wait to see if their winning continues with the upcoming Drama Desk Award.But before becoming the rabbi's son, James was an instrumental musician and at the age of 18 decided to become a dancer. Transforming himself into a dancer through college, he landed his first job before graduation in Milwaukee Ballet II. And he's continued to become a successful storyteller thr

     May 25,2019 47:20
244. 244. Matthew Stern - Stage Manager, BROADWAY SYMPOSIUM

     The job of a stage manager may be behind the scenes, but all that they do makes its way into each and every performance we actors give onstage.Matthew Stern joins me today to explain the very nature of their work, giving insight into the art and craft of stage management. He recounts of his time with LES MISÉRABLES, 700 SUNDAYS, SPIDER-MAN, and other shows in New York and on the road. This is a must-listen for any actor wanting to know more about what SMs do and all the grunt work they go throug

     May 20,2019 01:00:32
245. 245. Tony Awards - AIN’T TOO PROUD with Joshua Morgan

     The first Award Season Bonus episode of 2019! And it's a musical that's tied for the most Tony nominations with 12, including Best Musical. (A full list of those nominations can be found here.) Joshua Morgan plays Shelly Berger, who was the real-life manager of the Temptations as well as The Supremes and Jackson 5. Josh is no stranger to Broadway as he was in the closing cast for the most recent revival of LES MISÉRABLES, which played at the same Imperial Theater. I first met and worked with Jos

     May 18,2019 01:08:06
246. 246. Lothair Eaton - Actor, Singer, U.K. and Germany STARLIGHT EXPRESS

     You're not likely to hear a more infectious laugh than on today's episode with Lothair Eaton. His joy of life and performing shine through in this engaging conversation about life on tour with STARLIGHT EXPRESS, the struggles of finding work here in NYC, and how we learn and grow as performers.Lothair was also seen in the ’95 UK Tour of 5 GUYS NAMED MOE. Throughout Germany and the UK Lothair has performed in many Musical Galas and events, as well as his own Cabaret shows to rave reviews!In New Y

     May 13,2019 59:46
247. 247. Musical Theater Trivia Challenge with Dr. Broadway (Bite-Size Edition)

     After our great discussion of Broadway history, Tony Awards, and Dorothy Fields, Kristin was a sport enough to take on some trivia questions...and some of them were doozies. I didn't even know most of them before looking them up. So test your own Broadway knowledge and see how many you know in the first-ever WINMI Theater Trivia Challenge!Follow Kristin on Twitter and learn more about her at DrBroadway.com.-----Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. 

     May 08,2019 12:54
248. 248. DR. BROADWAY - Kristin Stultz Pressley PhD, Musical Theatre Historian

     Well, the Award Season is now in high gear with all the major theater nominations out: Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Drama League, and of course the mother of them all, the Tonys. Everyone seems to be talking about the hottest shows on Broadway. So today I’m jumping into the deep end as well, talking about some of the current Broadway darlings. And joining me is Dr. Broadway herself to also discuss the history that went into making Broadway what it is today as well as some of the backstory t

     May 06,2019 01:12:36
249. 249. WINMI Host Patrick Oliver Jones on ENTERTAINMENT(X) with Clayton Howe

     After being on WINMI Episode 32, fellow podcaster Clayton Howe invited me to return the favor and come on his podcast. We chatted about my own journey as an actor and what led to the creation of WHY I'LL NEVER MAKE IT. I share my own fears and battles with not "making it" but also what keeps me going and hoping along the way.There's plenty of wit and wisdom in this great conversation with my friend, and I'm so glad to have been a part of his podcast. Enjoy!Subscribe and listen to ENTERTAINMENT(X

     May 02,2019 01:04:58
250. 250. John Ort - Casting Director, Board Member of Artist’s Patron Fund

     As part 2 of the focus on auditions, John Ort joins the podcast. He is a member of CSA (Casting Society of America) and works on TV, film, new media and theatre.His insights on the audition process are informative and useful as we continue to navigate this sometimes rough and mysterious process. John sheds light on on-camera vs theater auditions, how best to do self-tapes, and even tackles some of your questions.John's work includes: CBS’s “Bull,” feature films Last Ferry and Anya, and short fil

     Apr 29,2019 39:58
251. 251. AUDITION STORIES 2019 with Caitlin Kinnunen, Lothair Eaton, Tovi Wayne, Ilana Levine, and more!

     Welcome to the first annual Auditions episode! I’ll be sharing stories from those in the audition room as well as some tidbits of wisdom along the way. For the past few months during my conversations with guests I've asked them about their own audition stories. I saved those tales of wonder and woe, so I could bring them to you now for the first time. And that’s what today is going to be all about…sharing and commiserating on auditions - the good, the bad, and the funny. Here are the guests feat

     Apr 22,2019 57:47
252. 252. THE ACTORS FUND Financial Wellness Program with Rebecca Selkowe (Spotlight)

     Welcome to your favorite holiday: Tax Day! One of the most difficult but important issues we face in the arts is our finances. How to make more of it and how to spend (and save) it in the best way possible.Rebecca Selkowe, head of the Financial Wellness Program at The Actors Fund, covers some of the challenges people working in performing arts and entertainment face when trying to balance variable income and expenses, and also touches briefly on important tax issues. A performing artist’s financ

     Apr 15,2019 01:11:59
253. 253. Kelly Gabel - Actress, Singer, Coach, Founder of TRIPLE THREAT THERAPY

     Kelly and I talk about the mindset needed to get through the ups and downs of this business, and as founder of Triple Threat Therapy she even gives me a bit of therapy, asking questions and giving insights into my own thinking when it comes to auditions and making decisions for my career. But it all started the ripe old age of 4, when Kelly stepped on stage for the first time during a kindergarten musical. From that moment on, she was hooked. Most of us have a story similar to that, right? She p

     Apr 08,2019 01:19:12
254. 254. Clayton Howe - Actor, Singer, Host of ENTERTAINMENT(X)

     Fellow actor and podcaster, Clayton Howe, riffs on the business of auditioning as well as creating new work and making a difference in the world...whether that world is our own theater community or a larger presence influencing millions.He even brings up one influencer, Casey Neistat, who is a filmmaker and was ticketed here in NYC for not riding his bike in the bike lane. Through his videos and mission to fight back against the ticket, he ended up exposing a flaw in the enforcement of bike lane

     Apr 01,2019 01:04:43
255. 255. Amy Marie Stewart - Actor, Singer, Vocal Teacher, Founder of THEORY WORKS

     From musical theater to opera, from Disney Cruise Line to New York's famed Town Hall venue,Amy Marie Stewart has seen first hand the struggles that singers and actors face. Most of it coming from our own preconceived notions or those expectations heaped on us by others. Her recent blog post "Failing our Singers" went viral as she tried to dispel those do's and don'ts in order to free us up to give our best performance, whether onstage or in the audition room.Due to a recent illness, which she op

     Mar 25,2019 48:52
256. 256. Ilana Levine - Actress, Singer, Host of LITTLE KNOWN FACTS

     Today, I'm joined by the wonderfully charming and talented Ilana Levine. She takes a break from her own podcast, LITTLE KNOWN FACTS, to talk with me about her career on Broadway and in TV/film as well as share stories of auditions and her obsession with British royalty. From her big Broadway turn as Lucy in YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN to her various appearances in The Nanny Diaries, Law & Order, and the infamous Seinfeld episode "The Contest," she has had a storied career. But Ilana has als

     Mar 18,2019 57:20
257. 257. Caitlin Kinnunen - Actress and Singer, THE PROM on Broadway

     Happy Promposal Day!Caitlin Kinnunen may go to THE PROM eight times a week on Broadway as Emma, a high schooler who wants to bring her girlfriend to the big dance. But when she was a teenager herself, she never actually attended prom. On today’s episode, Caitlin opens up about being home schooled and how she could only go to the before and after parties with a friend.Her home schooling was largely due to being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age, and being at home meant better care of

     Mar 11,2019 55:28
258. 258. DRAMA CLUB with Founder & Executive Director Josie Whittlesey (Spotlight)

     For the first Spotlight Series of 2019 I’m joined by Josie Whittlesey, the founder and Executive Director of Drama Club. The organization started in 2013, providing theatre programming to incarcerated and court-involved young people. They bring classes into juvenile detention centers, jails and community centers throughout New York City. Currently, Drama Club works with about 500 individual students between the ages of 10-21, using improv as their core curriculum, empowering young people to tell

     Mar 04,2019 01:04:09
259. 259. Heather Botts - Actress, Singer, Swing in MY FAIR LADY on Broadway

     How would you like to learn 13 different roles for one show, and be ready at a moment's notice to perform anyone of them...or even combine two or three of them in one show? That's exactly what Heather Botts is prepared to do 8 times a week in MY FAIR LADY, currently on Broadway.In this episode, recorded backstage in the Lincoln Center Theater, she shares her process for gearing up for such a demanding part in cast as well as her journey from regional theaters to the Great White Way.Born and rais

     Feb 25,2019 45:13
260. 260. Ryan K. Bailer - Actor, Singer, CEO of Ryan Bailer Tech Support

     The man who has been in more EVITA productions than Mandy Patinkin joins me on the podcast to talk about his back and forth in show business and finding the balance between "making it" and making a living. As founder and owner of Ryan Bailer Support, he's created a thriving company that he enjoys and supports him and his family. But he still dreams of being on the stage and knows that he's not quite complete if he's not pursuing his acting career as well.He gives the hilarious story of his first

     Feb 18,2019 01:11:50
261. 261. Tony Howell - Digital Strategist for Creative Artists, Social Media Branding & Marketing

     Tony Howell is a digital strategist for Emmy, Grammy, Tony, Oscar, and Olivier award-winning artists. His work has been featured by Google, Squarespace, SAG-AFTRA, Actors' Equity Association, and more. On today's episode, he shares his insights of how to match our online presence with our in-person persona.Before becoming an entrepreneur, he was an actor for 20+ years-performing on Broadway, Off-Broadway, National Tours, and more. In addition to weekly free content and scholarships to his quarte

     Feb 11,2019 01:07:57
262. 262. 2019 Broadway Chat with Ryan McPhee, Managing News Editor at PLAYBILL

     We're now about halfway through the 2018-19 Broadway season, and several shows have closed and some still have yet to open. Ryan McPhee, Managing News Editor at PLAYBILL, joins the podcast once again to talk about the notable shows of the 2018-19 Broadway Season. We focus especially on those that are likely to get some Tony Award recognition.Here's the list of all shows we mention in this episode:• Andrea McArdle and Donna McKechnie at 54 Below• Getting the Band Back Together did not get good re

     Feb 04,2019 53:50
263. 263. Maggie Bera - Musical Theater Actress, Singer, and ACTOR AESTHETIC Blogger

     Maggie graduated from Texas State with a BFA in Musical Theatre just two years ago and has been pounding the NYC pavement ever since. In today's episode she talks about how she holds herself back sometimes from being her best in the audition room and in pursuing this career. She also opens up about what keeps her going and how theater has truly changed her life, enjoying every step of it along the way.She studied for ten years at Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Theatre Conservatory under the leaders

     Jan 28,2019 58:01
264. 264. Tovi Wayne - Musical Theater Actor, Joffrey Ballet Dancer, Dance Teacher

     A good friend of mine and the podcast joins me for the first interview of 2019!Tovi Wayne opens up about starting dance late in his performing career and how that put him behind other dancers but also motivated him to get better, to learn as much as he could.He came to NYC with the dream of being in NEWSIES and through a lot of hard work finally did a regional production of the show down in Florida. But he certainly has a long career ahead of him with more shows he wants to do!So join the conver

     Jan 21,2019 51:47
265. 265. Cupcakes & Kudisch (Bite-Size Edition)

     The first episode of the year has me chatting about my failed attempt to make Red Velvet Cupcakes...and I mean utter failure. I hurried through the prep and ended up with inedible red mushy hockey pucks. Such wasted time and effort and ingredients. What wasn't a waste of my time, though, was a recent chat I had with Marc Kudisch. I met him at the Only Make Believe Gala after-party, and he graciously talked with me for about 15 minutes. From the business to Broadway and keeping it all in perspect

     Jan 14,2019 18:30
266. 266. A Look Back at 2018

     It's been a wonderful ride despite some growing pains and losses along the way. My first year of podcasting has nonetheless taught me a great deal, and I hope you've learned a thing or two as well.I honestly do this for you and try my best to give you interviews and insights as well as some fun along the way. A lot of effort goes into these episodes and sometimes they hit the mark and other times fall short (mostly technical hitches and glitches and my own verbal fumbles).So I may not have made

     Dec 31,2018 51:51
267. 267. Jury Duty, One Actor’s Journey Into the Justice System (Bite-Size Edition)

     In this episode, Patrick shares one thing that has kept him from auditioning and finding work...jury duty. That civic obligation that many try to get out of has become yet another obstacle to making it. But Patrick diligently fulfilled his duty and rendered a verdict on an attempted murder case involving a babysitter. This is certainly a different kind of episode for the podcast, but nonetheless it's a fascinating story with twists and turns and surprises, just the kind of "ripped from the headl

     Dec 31,2018 34:58
268. 268. John McNally PhD - Award-Winning Author, Screenwriter, Lecturer, English Professor

     As the school year winds down, a Ph.D joins the podcast once again, this time to talk about fiction writing and The Promise of Failure. His most recent book is a collection of lectures and essays he's given to writing students about the certainty of rejection and how best to handle it and move on from it. I mean, what better guest and topic are there for the Why I'll Never Make It podcast??He shares how he combats writer's block and why acting and theater play a vital role in his own writing as

     Dec 17,2018 47:41
269. 269. NY YOUTH SYMPHONY Jazz Program with Andy Clausen (Spotlight)

     Andy Clausen is a New York-based composer, trombonist, bandleader, and graduate of The Juilliard School. Hailing from Seattle, Clausen relocated to NYC in 2010 where he enjoys a diverse schedule collaborating with filmmakers, folk and blues artists, classical composers, as well as New York's jazz elite. An active educator, Clausen has taught workshops across the United States and currently serves as Artistic Director of The New York Youth Symphony Jazz Program.For more information visit https://

     Dec 10,2018 42:25
270. 270. Glasgow Lyman & Jeff Rosick - Writers, Actors, Producers from Hollywood Fringe, WE NEED THIS MUSICAL...

     These two writers and actors join the podcast to talk about their new show...WE NEED THIS MUSICAL TO KEEP US FROM KILLING OURSELVES: THE MUSICAL. (Oh yes, it's a mouthful.)But Glasgow is more than just a writer, by day he works as a licensed therapist, applying the work of Dr. John Sarno to patients with chronic pain and TMS. Before that he was a farmer, shepherd, and set decorator for Playboy. And we definitely talk about all that!Jeff has had a more traditional path in the arts by getting a de

     Nov 28,2018 46:51
271. 271. NY YOUTH SYMPHONY Musical Theater Composition Program with Anna Jacobs (Spotlight)

     Today's episode focuses on the Musical Theater Composition program of the New York Youth Symphony, directed by Anna Jacobs. Her musicals include:POP! (book & lyrics by Maggie-Kate Coleman)ANYTOWN (book by Jim Jack)TEETH (co-book & lyrics by Michael R. Jackson)CAGE MATCH and MAGIC 8 BALL (Prospect Theatre Company; w/ Sam Salmond & Michael R. Jackson)KAYA: TASTE OF PARADISE, a soon-to-be-released movie musical commissioned by the New York Film Academy and featuring Okieriete Onaodowan (screenplay

     Nov 26,2018 44:06
272. 272. Michael Wartella - Singer, Songwriter, Broadway Actor in the National Tour of WICKED

     Mike spent ten years in the city before landing his dream role and first major New York production, RENT at the Off-Broadway venue New World Stages. Since then he's reached even greater heights on Broadway with WICKED, TUCK EVERLASTING, and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.But there's also been some pauses and setbacks along the way, both personal and professional, from divorce and sharing custody of his son to years of struggling to be noticed and cast in shows.With age comes wisdom, though, a

     Nov 19,2018 54:38
273. 273. NY YOUTH SYMPHONY with Conductor Michael Repper (Spotlight)

     For the next couple of weeks will be talking to directors of the New York Youth Symphony. Founded in 1963 as an orchestra to showcase the metropolitan area’s most gifted musicians ages 12-22, its activities have since grown to encompass programs in chamber music, conducting, composition, and jazz, with performances at world class venues including Carnegie Hall and Jazz at Lincoln Center.Today’s guest is Michael Repper who is in his second year as Music Director of the NYYS Orchestra. He is an em

     Nov 12,2018 49:28
274. 274. John McGinty - Broadway Actor (Children of a Lesser God), Deaf Advocate and Sign Language Teacher

     John McGinty lost his hearing at a young age and for years headed toward a career in Finance. But theater kept calling him, and he finally answered by moving to New York to see if he could make it. On this episode he shares the twists and turns of that journey and what keeps him motivated and focused. John also opens up about lessons he learned, and that we all can learn, from his Broadway debut in the revival of CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD, which The Hollywood Reporter called "forceful and spontan

     Oct 29,2018 58:35
275. 275. Tribute to Marin Mazzie (Bite-Size Edition)

     The first ever mini-episode with Patrick, focusing on why he'll never make it as well as why he's still here. Patrick talks about the wonderful camaraderie within theater and gives a loving tribute to Marin Mazzie, who passed away last month from ovarian cancer. (Read about Marin's remarkable joy and positivity as she confronted cancer.)A career that spans 30 years, she was always a consummate professional yet easy-going and always herself. She brought passion and true enjoyment to each role she

     Oct 22,2018 16:36
276. 276. ONLY MAKE BELIEVE with Artistic Director Jackie Miller, Actors Dan Domingues & Jeanette Bonner (Spotlight)

     In Part Two of our look at Only Make Believe, Patrick talks to Jackie Miller, Artistic Director of the acting company, and two of the actors, Dan Domingues and Jeanette Bonner. They share the process of bringing interactive theater to children in hospitals and care facilities. From choosing the right type of shows that best fits the kids and their medical conditions to rehearsing scripts and coordinating actor schedules, a lot of time and effort goes into these productions...and all at no cost t

     Oct 15,2018 58:42
277. 277. Chris Coyne - Actor, Singer, Foley Mixer, Emmy-Nominated Sound Editor

     Chris Coyne’s career in the entertainment industry spans more than 30 years, and in this episode he talks about his work onstage and in television commercials from Los Angeles to Europe as well as Las Vegas. where he has the distinction of playing leading roles in both of the longest continuously running shows in Las Vegas history: JUBILEE! and LES FOLIES BERGERE.Chris also shares why, after finally getting his first national commercial for Southwest Airlines, he decided to go back to school for

     Oct 08,2018 57:49
278. 278. ONLY MAKE BELIEVE with Founder Dena Hammerstein (Spotlight)

     Geraldine Sherman was born in Middlesex, England and became a busy actress on BBC and in film when she met and later married James Hammerstein. She is now known as theater producer Dena Hammerstein, President/CEO of James Hammerstein Productions and Founder of the non-profit organization Only Make Believe.OMB brings interactive theater to children in hospitals and care facilities, those with illnesses and disabilities and special needs. They entertain the kids with specially created plays design

     Oct 01,2018 50:39
279. 279. Scott Wojcik & Gayle Seay - Casting Directors for Regional Theater, National Tours, and Off-Broadway

     When Scott Wojcik and Gayle Seay entered the entertainment industry, headshots were black and white and fax machines and beepers were high tech ways to communicate. The mode of casting has changed dramatically from when they began their careers. What has not changed is their commitment to the process, their care for the actor and their collective love of show business. Both Scott and Gayle were both actors and eventually worked in casting prior to merging their experience into the thriving partn

     Sep 30,2018 51:54
280. 280. Joey Fatone - Singer with *NSYNC, TV Host, Broadway Star

     Before he became a part of the worldwide phenom *NSYNC, Joey was a theater kid in Orlando, Florida. And since his days of touring around the world, he has been on Broadway, appeared in films and television, and has hosted more shows than he can count. Through it all, he makes time for his family and friends and even our little podcast. We catch up with him on the phone from his home in Florida to chat about life in the spotlight and how his career is constantly evolving. There is no better way t

     Jun 25,2018 01:09:43
281. 281. Martine Kei Green-Rogers, PhD - Dramaturg and Theater Professor

     We have really stepped up our game this episode with the first PhD on WINMI! Martine is a theater professor at SUNY New Paltz and freelance dramaturg, with work at Oregon Shakepeare Festival, Pioneer Theatre Company, and Court Theatre to name a few. Her research interests include violence in African American Theatre, African diaspora theatre, and gender and race in American theatre and issues of sustainability in the theatre. She talks with us about the role of dramaturgy in creating both new an

     Jun 11,2018 01:05:12
282. 282. 2018 Tony Awards Predictions with PLAYBILL Managing News Editor Ryan McPhee

     With just a week to go before the Tony winners are announced, Patrick joins Ryan McPhee at the Playbill headquarters in midtown Manhattan to chat about the whole Broadway season and this year's nominees: the surprises, the snubs, the favorites, and the underdogs. Who do you think will win the big prizes this year?Find the full list of nominees here: TonyAwards.comFollow Ryan on Twitter: @rdmcphee-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both som

     Jun 04,2018 48:00
283. 283. Tony Awards - CAROUSEL with Actor/Singer Nicholas Belton (understudy for Billy Bigelow)

     For the fourth Bonus Episode of our Tony Award series, Patrick catches up with Nicholas Belton, who understudies the lead role of Billy Bigelow in the current Broadway revival of CAROUSEL, which received 11 nominations. Nick talks about the joy of working with his nominated director and fellow actors as well as what's it's like to be back in the Imperial Theatre again after last season's THE GREAT COMET.Follow Nick on Twitter!-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversatio

     Jun 01,2018 29:35
284. 284. Tony Awards - THE BAND'S VISIT with Associate Conductor Jeff Theiss

     From the longest running Best Musical nominee this year comes Jeff Theiss, who joins Patrick on the third installment of the Tony Awards bonus series. This associate conductor shares how THE BAND'S VISIT has grown since its off-Broadway run at the Atlantic and what makes this nominated score and orchestration so wonderful to play as well as hear. The show maybe one of the quietest musicals this season, but it makes a loud statement on what brings us together and the ties that bind us all.Find ou

     May 29,2018 26:19
285. 285. Jelani Alladin - Broadway Actor, Kristoff in Disney's FROZEN

     It gets a little chilly in the studio as FROZEN’s Kristoff joins us for today’s episode. Mega-watt Broadway star and Drama Desk Award nominee, Jelani Alladin, took time out of his morning talk show schedule and Tony Awards preparation to talk about what it’s like to be on that theatre mountain top! Follow him on Twitter and Instagram!-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying

     May 21,2018 01:04:14
286. 286. Tony Awards - SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS with Actor/Singer Kelvin Moon Loh

     Tying for the most Tony nominations this Broadway season, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS The Musical is as energetic and colorful as they come. In this bonus episode Patrick sits down with Kelvn Moon Loh, who plays Perch Perkins in the show, and chats about the 10 years it took to bring SpongeBob to the stage. From the songs to the staging to the sound effects, every detail has been lovingly and tirelessly crafted to give audiences a true musical experience, welcoming one and all to Bikini Bottom.http://

     May 18,2018 47:14
287. 287. Tony Awards - ONCE ON THIS ISLAND with Musical Director Alvin Hough, Jr.

     We chose to make our first Bonus Episode in honor of the Tony Awards! To celebrate those truly making it on Broadway we invited Alvin Hough, music director and conductor for ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, to chat about the glorious music and amazing cast that make this Broadway revival so magical. He gives insight into the making and staging of this uplifting musical and its eight Tony nominations!Learn more about Alvin as well as ONCE ON THIS ISLAND.-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests

     May 15,2018 31:20
288. 288. Jessica Holt - Theater Director (MFA from Yale School of Drama)

     The Jessica Holt joins us for today's discussion about all things theater. With her Ivy League roots and a love for new, contemporary and classical plays, this director delights in adventurous theatricality and believes theater has the power to transform. Learn all about her at http://www.jessicaholt.org (that's right... dot ORG!!!)-----Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as rea

     May 07,2018 01:07:18
289. 289. Michael Kostroff - Actor, Director, Writer, Blogger, Audition Coach

     We have a doozy for you this week. We solve what's wrong with kids today (it's emojis) and we talk with the actor/teacher/audition coach/director/writer Michael Kostroff. You can find out more about this amazing man by following any of the links below!Websites:www.auditionpsych101.comwww.michaelkostroff.com Twitter:@[email protected] Email:[email protected] time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging

     Apr 23,2018 56:27
290. 290. Grace McLean - Actress, Singer from GREAT COMET & Them Apples

     The “electrifying” (Huffington Post) and “phenomenal” (NY Times) Grace McLean joins us “in-studio” to tell a couple of jokes and give insight on how we might make it. You might recognize her from Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 or her career both as a solo artist and with her band Grace McLean & Them Apples.Learn it all at www.gracemclean.com!!!-----Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or

     Apr 09,2018 58:35
291. 291. Marella Martin Koch - Theater Writer, Director, Producer

     This podcast would never have happened if today's guest had not written the show where that brought Dewey and Patrick together. We'll get into that and much more with writer/director/producer and all-around talented lady Marella Martin Koch!Learn more about all the things she is at www.marellamartinkoch.com!-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support thi

     Mar 26,2018 47:16
292. 292. Casey Erin Clark - Actor, Singer, Dancer, Public Speaking Coach

     Today on our program we have an actor, a singer, a dancer, a voice/public speaking coach and a singing/audition coach. And...it's all one person, Casey Erin Clark! Learn all about her 15 minutes of terrifying fame and how she manages to be all of those things listed above.Find out more about Casey on her awesome website...https://www.caseyerinclark.com-----Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Tw

     Mar 12,2018 55:57
293. 293. Erin Cronican - Theater Actress, Producer, Director, Coach

     The actor and all-around fun gal, Erin Cronican joins us "in studio" to discuss her own formula for making it in the entertainment industry. From coaching to her theater company, Erin keeps a lot of irons in the fire. Learn more about those irons at http://www.erincronican.com/.-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each epi

     Feb 26,2018 55:07
294. 294. Stephen Wallem - Stage and TV Actor from NURSE JACKIE

     Dewey and Patrick get real about winter and its effect on us actors. Then, Stephen Wallem joins in to talk about his first love -- theater -- and how Nurse Jackie fame has both helped his career and brought its own challenges. Follow Stephen at StephenWallem.com!-----Podcast hosted by Off-Broadway actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones - https://www.pojones.com Support WINMI and get access to Members-Only Episodes on Supercast.Check out Artist Resources and follow WINMI on Instagram or Twitter.Ge

     Feb 12,2018 46:05
295. 295. Mara Davi & Aaron Gaines - Musical Theater Actors & Married Couple

     An interview on how to live and garden in this business with the dynamic duo of Mara Davi (Instagram: @MaraDavi or @Vintage.Green) and Aaron Gaines (Aaron-Gaines.com).-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any

     Jan 29,2018 01:02:00
296. 296. Jeff Thomson - Musical Theater Composer

     An interview with musical theater composer extraordinaire, Jeff Thomson. He shares his thoughts on "making it" as well as samples of some of his latest work.You can find out more about Jeff and his music (even download some sheet music as well) at JeffThomsonMusic.com!-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join

     Jan 15,2018 54:39
297. 297. Matt Zambrano - Theater Actor, Writer, Mime, Improv

     OUR PREMIERE EPISODE!! Get to know your hosts Dewey Caddell and Patrick Oliver Jones as they share their own ups and downs in the performing world. They then interview the supremely talented Matt Zambrano (actor, writer, and mime) who shares his own journey from Denver to the Big Apple. Find out more about Matt: www.MattZambrano.com.-----The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying

     Dec 28,2017 52:21