Cover art for podcast Why I‘ll Never Make It

Why I‘ll Never Make It

322 EpisodesProduced by Patrick Oliver JonesWebsite

The actor’s journey is one of occasional highs and frequent lows. It is a path riddled with self-doubt and frustration as we question our career choices, wondering if we’ll ever really ”make it.” But it is those few moments of glory on stage or screen that can sustain us through all the setbacks and… read more

322 Episodes | 2018 - 2024

Farewell

February 22nd, 2024

0:39

An important message from RadioPublic

Sara Gettelfinger Shares Her Long and Struggling Journey Back to Broadway

March 25th, 2024

58:55

Sara Gettelfinger's Broadway debut came in 2000 with the musical Seussical. And she worked steadily on Broadway through the years until she and I met and worked together on The Addams Family national tour in 2011. But …

Gabrielle Ruiz Discusses THE ADDAMS FAMILY National Tour and Female Representation in the Arts (REWIND)

March 18th, 2024

42:57

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 …

FINAL FIVE with Ann Harada, Broadway Actress and Singer

March 11th, 2024

26:21

In the previous episode, you heard actress and singer Ann Harada share her stories of grinding it out as an Asian actress trying to fit in with what she thought casting directors wanted but then discovered her …

Ann Harada Learns That Her Greatest Asset as an Actor Is Being Herself

March 4th, 2024

37:13

Ann Harada will be the first to tell you that finding happiness and satisfaction in the acting business didn’t come quickly or easily for her. In fact, her first Broadway credit came as a production assistant, not as an …

FINAL FIVE with Lydia-Renee Darling, Actress and Producer

February 26th, 2024

15:29

Last week you heard actress, writer, and entrepreneur Lydia-Renee Darling share her stories of growing up in an immigrant household and then her own …

Lydia-Renee Darling Embraces Change and Learns to Become a Better Artist

February 19th, 2024

42:56

Lydia-Renee Darling is the very definition of a well rounded, multi hyphenate artist. She got her BFA in musical theater from Webster University in …

Steve Cuden (Part 2) Discovers His Talent for Animation Writing & The Art of StoryBeats

February 12th, 2024

55:14

As an actor I fully appreciate and recognize that I couldn’t do what I do without a writer doing what they do. Their words and characters are the …

Steve Cuden (Part 1) Leaving the Jekyll & Hyde He Helped Create

February 5th, 2024

59:45

For the first guest of this season, I’m talking with writer Steve Cuden, who was a part of a musical and its beginning stages, but was eventually replaced right before it began to take off and become the hugely iconic

Season 8 Preview

January 29th, 2024

16:54

For Season 8, we're diving deep into the world of theater once agin with guests from Broadway, West End, and regional theaters near and far. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces on the scene, each episode is packed …

A Moment to Revisit "The Band's Visit" on Broadway (REWIND)

January 16th, 2024

25:41

Five years ago, "The Band's Visit," a musical defying convention, closed on Broadway after a year and a half of acclaim. Composed by David Yazbek and written by Itamar Moses, it emerged as a masterpiece, transcending …

Clifton Duncan (Part 2) Addressing Groupthink in the Theater Community

December 30th, 2023

54:36

With politics becoming more and more a part of our daily lives, the theater and acting profession are certainly no strangers to it influence and …

Clifton Duncan (Part 1) Embracing Authenticity and Its Consequences

December 18th, 2023

57:21

Meryl Streep once said that "acting is not about being someone different. It is about finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there.” She is in essence urging us to discover the …

Emily Grace on Directing Ourselves and Our Own Careers

December 4th, 2023

38:14

We read and hear a lot these days about how actors need to be their own producers and creating their own work. In my own career about the only thing …

Luke Yankee Highlights the Mishaps and Misadventures We All Endure as Actors

November 20th, 2023

38:17

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of the acting world with today's guest, Luke Yankee, who is no stranger to the trials …

Sharon Catherine Brown Live at BroadwayCon 2023!

November 6th, 2023

33:57

In an enjoyable BroadwayCon encounter this past summer, I found myself in the heart of all things Broadway, rubbing shoulders with the stars and …

Tjasa Ferme Engages Audiences by Blending Science and Theater

October 23rd, 2023

43:56

Tjasa Ferme is more than an actress; she's a dynamic creator who writes, produces, and stars in her own work. Her artistic vision revolves around …

John Rubinstein, a Man of Many Talents

October 9th, 2023

1:08:01

John Rubinstein was born the son of renowned pianist Arthur Rubinstein, and his early exposure to theater in the 8th grade ignited a passion that …

Richard Maltby Jr. and the Curious Case of Nick & Nora's Failure on Broadway

September 25th, 2023

44:43

This summer marked the beginning of my new podcast venture, Closing Night, where I delve deep into the captivating world of Broadway history. Our journey takes us through the tales of shows that have graced the Marquis …

Jocelyn Panton Finds Freedom After Failure in the Pageant World and Being $50K in Debt

September 11th, 2023

52:16

As a child, Jocelyn Panton attended a musical theater production that came to her hometown in Canada, and she just knew that’s what she wanted to do one day. Well, she stuck to that dream and has gone on to do …

Dan Knechtges Goes from Broadway Director to Artistic Director

August 28th, 2023

1:00:49

Regional theater is really the lifeblood of the performing arts in America. It’s the place where we get that first spark and inspiration to become lifelong theatergoers or decide to become actors ourselves. But in …

Jelani Alladin Live at BroadwayCon!

August 14th, 2023

31:47

In July of this summer, I did my very first BroadwayCon, which is an annual conference here in New York City about all things Broadway and theater, …

Noah Crandell Finds a Silver Lining in the Struggles of Being an Actor

July 31st, 2023

55:12

In the midst of the devastating impact of the pandemic on the arts, there's a unique perspective rarely explored--that of artists just entering the performing arts world when Covid struck. In this episode, Noah Crandell

Welcome to Closing Night at the Marquis Theatre!

July 17th, 2023

39:28

Last year, the idea for a new theater history podcast came up as Dan Delgado and I were working on The Little Prince episodes. Well, it took me …

Lisa Lampanelli, The Queen of Mean Makes Nice and Gets Personal About Life on the Stage

July 3rd, 2023

53:13

I was in college when I first discovered Lisa Lampanelli, a stand-up comedian, insult comic, actress, and writer who is known for her sharp wit, …

E. Clayton Cornelious on Persistence and Opportunity as a Broadway Actor and Producer

June 19th, 2023

45:59

E Clayton Cornelious has been a part of 10 Broadway shows: in the ensemble, as an understudy and swing, as well as in starring roles, and even as a …

Tony Award Nominees Talk About RAGTIME and XANADU on Broadway

June 7th, 2023

44:39

My first conversation is with Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who I am so grateful to have met for the first time in this interview. We had a wonderful …

Sidney Myer Found a Home and Family in New York Cabarets

May 22nd, 2023

1:00:35

Cabarets have been an integral part of New York City's cultural fabric for over a century, offering a unique blend of entertainment, social …

Why I’ll Never Make It Joins the Broadway Podcast Network!

May 8th, 2023

1:48

Well, after more than five years, Why I’ll Never Make It is taking a big leap forward as a Podcast, joining the highly respected and expansive Broadway Podcast Network. So over the coming weeks, you’ll notice some …

Corrie Legge Shares How Choices Have Shaped Her Acting Career

May 8th, 2023

52:17

Previous guest Michael Kushner loves to use the term multi-hyphenate to illustrate the many ways we can express our creative selves. Well, Corrie …

Jack Canfora Continues to Learn as a Playwright, Even From His Critics

April 24th, 2023

44:49

Writing is by its very nature, a solitary practice. Whether with pen and paper or in front of a computer screen, it is generally time spent alone, …

Remembering Phantom of the Opera with Cast Member Jeremy Stolle (REWIND)

April 17th, 2023

38:10

It took 35 years, but Phantom of the Opera has finally left Broadway. It was a show that I first discovered in high school, and I went on to perform …

Michael Kushner Embraces and Defends the Multi-Hyphenate Performing Artist

April 10th, 2023

1:05:44

There was a study that came out the year before the pandemic called “Quantifying and Predicting Success in Show Business.” It starts off by saying that the unemployment rate for actors hovers around 90% —now, this was …

Jocelyn Jones Helps Actors and Individuals Awaken Their Artistry and Creativity

March 27th, 2023

59:30

Recently, I went googling for articles about downsizing and simplifying my life, and I found this one called Simple Living Manifesto, which sounded great. But then the title of the blog post was “72 Ideas to Simplify …

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

March 20th, 2023

55:16

Music director Julianne Merrill and broadcast technology director Jessica Ryan join the podcast for Women's History Month, to talk about Maestra and …

Lisa Howard on Originating Roles on Broadway and the Unjust Stigma Associated with Plus-Sized Actors

March 13th, 2023

51:47

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 …

Sharon Catherine Brown (Part 2) - Performing in Milestone TV Shows & Knowing Our Worth as Actors

February 27th, 2023

56:19

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 …

Sharon Catherine Brown (Part 1) - Born to Be a Drama Queen in Her Broadway Family

February 13th, 2023

57:57

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 …

Blake Stadnik from ”This Is Us” Doesn’t Let His Disability Stop Him Onstage or in Life

January 30th, 2023

1:01:22

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 …

Welcome to Season Seven!

January 23rd, 2023

3:23

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 …

Bettering Our Mindset with ”Dr. Drama” Alisa Hurwtiz, PsyD (REWIND)

January 16th, 2023

45:49

As we start off this new year, I’m continuing where we left off last week with Brooke McNamara by talking with another psychologist, Alisa Hurwitz. …

Bettering our Acting Training and Practice with Brooke Macnamara (REWIND)

January 10th, 2023

57:52

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 …

A Look Back at 2022

December 28th, 2022

33:58

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 …

Angela Lansbury and Her Bumpy Road to MAME on Broadway

December 21st, 2022

20:19

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 …

Jeremy Stolle Shares 15 Years at Phantom of the Opera and the Struggles He Faced Getting There

December 12th, 2022

1:00:17

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 …

Simon Tam and The Slants Battle Asian Stereotypes and the Supreme Court

December 5th, 2022

54:29

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 …

Ben Curtis Found Fame as the Dell Dude But Found Himself as the Wellness Dude

November 28th, 2022

52:14

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 …

Elaine Romanelli Battles Criticism and Self-Doubt as a Singer and Songwriter

November 21st, 2022

1:01:31

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 …

Jules Helm Explores Personal Growth and Self-Discovery On Stage and Off

November 14th, 2022

58:18

Jules Helm chats about how to focus on self-care and personal growth by using movement and acting techniques to bring both our mind and body into …

Dena Hammerstein, from Actress & Writer to Producer & Founder of Only Make Believe (REWIND)

November 7th, 2022

48:47

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 …

Joe DiPietro and How Theater Has Made a Difference in His Own Life

October 31st, 2022

54:05

Joe DiPietro is certainly no stranger to theater and has been writing for the stage since 1991. His musicals and plays have received multiple awards …

Muriel Miguel and the Art of Story Weaving Her Native American Experiences

October 24th, 2022

52:13

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 …

Ricky Schroeder and Why Booking a Show Doesn’t Always Mean You’ve Booked the Show

October 17th, 2022

50:37

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 …

Kate Baldwin Looks for Deeper Creative Purpose When Performing 8 Times a Week

October 10th, 2022

50:29

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 …

Marc Acito and the Steep Learning Curve from Theater Writer to Filmmaker

September 26th, 2022

59:52

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 …

Steve Harper Talks About Non-Traditional Casting & Writing for Superheroes Like Stargirl

September 19th, 2022

54:03

Steve Harper is an actor, writer, and producer of the stage and screen. He shares his actor’s nightmare in a Shakespeare production in Cincinnati, but we also discuss the pivotal time when he found himself lacking a …

Daryl Eisenberg and the Evolving Role of the Casting Director for the Stage and Screen

September 12th, 2022

1:07:57

As noted in the previous episode, auditions are the backbone of this industry, but there is an important gatekeeper when it comes to submitting our self tapes or actually getting in the audition room: The Casting …

Audition Stories 2022 with Jerry Mitchell, Carmen Cusack, Barton Cowperthwaite, Kathryn Allison & More

September 5th, 2022

49:48

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 …

Barton Cowperthwaite from Tiny Pretty Things Discovers He’s More Than Just a Dancer

August 29th, 2022

1:00:16

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 …

Andrew Lippa Shares Disappointments and Lessons Learned as a Broadway Composer & Lyricist (REWIND)

August 22nd, 2022

53:40

Back in the summer of 2020, 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 …

Gina Harris Finds Magic in the Ordinary Things of Life and Theater

August 15th, 2022

53:22

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Composer Matt Vinson & Book Writer and Lyricist Matte O’Brien

August 8th, 2022

24:09

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, …

Matt Vinson & Matte O’Brien on the Joys and Challenges of Bringing a Musical to the Stage

August 1st, 2022

53:23

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 …

Adam Stocker and the Theater Interview That Went All Wrong

July 25th, 2022

9:47

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 …

Adam Stocker Shows How Broadway Costumers Are Like Engineers & Should be Paid Accordingly

July 18th, 2022

1:00:46

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 …

Playwright Cris Eli Blak Proves That Persistence Can Overcome the Most Challenging Hurdles (REWIND)

July 11th, 2022

1:09:22

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 …

Brian Patacca Lets Go of Expectations and Finds Artistic Freedom

July 4th, 2022

53:46

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 …

Ashley Victoria Robinson Never Settles, Constantly Pushing Herself as an Actor and Creative

June 20th, 2022

56:41

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 …

Jerry Mitchell Knows His Worth as Director & Choreographer Despite 6 Losses at the Tony Awards

June 6th, 2022

1:03:28

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 …

Turning Artistry Into Activism with Playwright Jason Odell Williams and Producer Charlotte Cohn

May 30th, 2022

36:14

Four years ago this spring, a new play opened off Broadway called Church & State. It dealt with the contentious intersection of God, guns, and …

Brian Keith Graziani Illustrates How Talent Agents Impact an Actor’s Career

May 23rd, 2022

56:50

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 himself started out as an actor and …

Ethan Steimel Lights the Way to Talking About Money and Finances

May 16th, 2022

1:01:52

“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 …

Treating Yourself as a Business with Jonathan Cerullo and Artistic Finance

May 9th, 2022

1:02:40

Ethan Steimel talks with Jonathan Cerullo about seeing ourselves and our careers as more than an artistic craft in this special collaboration and …

David Dean Bottrell Faces His Fears and Unlocks a Greater Love for Acting and Performing

May 2nd, 2022

1:00:35

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. In this episode, I …

Carmen Cusack and the Journey to Finding Her Bright Star

April 25th, 2022

1:02:53

One of the main themes and messages of this podcast has always been that success can mean different things to different people and the path of how someone gets there, if they get there, is always unique to the person. …

Anthony Rapp Becomes The Little Prince and Later Finds Seasons of Love

April 18th, 2022

59:50

Years after the failed Lerner & Loewe movie musical of The Little Prince, producer Joseph Tandet tried again with composer John Barry and a full …

Steven Warner (Part 2) - The Little Prince Grows Up and Finds a New Path

April 11th, 2022

40:03

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 …

Steven Warner (Part 1) - Becoming The Little Prince

April 4th, 2022

50:11

Today’s episode is going to be slightly different from most episodes of Why I’ll Never Make It, because it was born out of a collaboration between …

Kevin Spirtas Takes the Stage and Shares from the Heart

March 28th, 2022

31:22

Back in January 2022, this podcast held its first ever live event: 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 …

Judy Tenuta Shares Her Journey from Stage to Standup and Her Battle with Cancer

March 21st, 2022

34:25

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, …

Elizabeth Swain Leads a New Generation of Theater Artists

March 14th, 2022

59:33

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 Elizabeth Swain as one of the professors who had a significant impact …

Mental Talk About Performance Anxiety with Mostafa Ashraf and Yara

March 7th, 2022

51:55

The art of performing is certainly filled with joy and passion and can offer a creative fulfillment not found another professions, but as this …

Terron Brooks Discovers There’s More to Success Than Fame

February 28th, 2022

1:06:26

Back in 2014, I met Terron Brooks 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 …

Black History Month - Vinnette Justine Carroll and Alvin Ailey (Encore)

February 21st, 2022

22:43

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 …

Gina Morgano Learned That Self-Awareness Is Key to the Performer’s Journey

February 14th, 2022

46:32

No matter what profession you’re in, setting goals is an important part of finding the best path to get you there, but just because you know your goals, does that mean you also have a clear picture of your mission as an …

Kathryn Allison Shares How She Found Her True Authentic Self Outside of Broadway

February 7th, 2022

1:08:08

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. I certainly …

Al Blackstone On Knowing Yourself as an Artist & Not Waiting for Permission to Create

January 31st, 2022

47:03

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 …

Briana Packen on Finding Balance and Stability in our Lives and Acting Careers

January 24th, 2022

1:03:26

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 …

A Look Back at 2021 and What’s Next for Theater and This Podcast

December 28th, 2021

44:51

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 …

Debra Ann Byrd (Part 2) - A Black Girl‘s Journey to Becoming Othello

December 20th, 2021

41:01

The experiences of our lives influence the paths we choose and shape who we are. 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 …

Debra Ann Byrd (Part 1) - Classically-Trained Actress Shares Her Bumpy Road to Theater

December 13th, 2021

38:06

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 …

Michael Learned Bravely Shares Her Struggles and Secrets to Longevity in the Arts

November 29th, 2021

43:38

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. Back in August of …

Matt Sav Shares His Process of Storytelling Through Musical Composition

November 22nd, 2021

49:11

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 …

Max Stossel Shows Us How to Improve Our Storytelling with Words That Move

November 15th, 2021

52:37

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. Today’s guest has performed on many stages, but he is the last …

"Standby for Places" Uses Podcasts to Exercise and Explore an Actor‘s Creativity

November 8th, 2021

36:49

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 …

Kate McClanaghan Helps Actors Find Their Voice

November 1st, 2021

46:23

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 …

Patrick Millsaps Goes from Political Theater to Talent Management and Production

October 25th, 2021

51:34

One of the themes of this podcast is how we as actors are constantly changing, adjusting, tweaking our careers as we transition between to stage, screen, commercials, and voiceovers. That same kind of transition happens …

Peter Allen Vogt - Actor and Comedian on Weight Loss, Jealousy, and the Need to Reinvent Ourselves as Artists

October 18th, 2021

58:11

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 status in …

Alessandra Mai Vinh Navigates American Immigration as She Pursues Her Dreams

October 11th, 2021

33:58

Every year more and more artists come to this country and face the challenges of the language and the culture while facing the nuances of auditioning …

Brad Oscar & Diego Prieto - Theater Husbands on Balancing Marriage and Careers

October 4th, 2021

58:53

Balancing work and life is a tough juggling act for most any actor or artist. Adding a relationship to the equation can be even more difficult to …

Misty Rosas (Part 2) - Saying ”Yes” to Ourselves Is the First Step Toward Realizing Our Full Potential

September 29th, 2021

45:30

In part one of our conversation, Misty Rosas talked having the opportunity to pursue one of her first passions as an artist -- singing -- and the thrill of opening for her favorite band Air Supply.

In the second half of …

Misty Rosas (Part 1) - Performance Artist from Star Wars‘ The Mandalorian Opens Up About Her Hearing Loss

September 27th, 2021

41:43

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 …

Nate Patten on the Strange and Wonderful 2020 Tony Award Nominations (REWIND)

September 20th, 2021

47:46

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 and the fallout that came from the announcement. …

Rodney Hicks (Part 2) - Broadway Actor Shares His Difficult Journey of Self-Discovery

September 15th, 2021

28:26

When it comes to work as an actor, there’s that old adage of "feast or famine." For myself that has meant going 11 months without any work…all while …

Rodney Hicks (Part 1) - Musical Theater Actor Opens Up About What Caused Him to Leave Broadway

September 13th, 2021

41:28

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 …

Will Swenson (Part 2) - Actor/Singer on the Changes He Hopes to See in Theater, Especially Broadway

September 8th, 2021

29:40

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 the …

Will Swenson (Part 1) - Broadway Actor Talks About Failed Shows and Leaving the Mormon Church

September 6th, 2021

38:26

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 the theatre world and the Tony Awards. I start today with actor and …

Darren Darnborough - British Actor and Producer & CEO of WeAudition

August 30th, 2021

54:16

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 defined by magical moments, while other times …

More Audition Stories 2021 with Will Swenson, Mykal Kilgore, Gabrielle Ruiz, Justin Guarini and more!

August 23rd, 2021

49:42

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 …

Audition Stories 2021 with Chaz Wolcott, Megan Carver, Damian Thompson and more!

August 16th, 2021

48:52

Actors have been returning to the stage this summer as some regional theaters have returned to normal with live audiences. That, of course, has brought in a fresh wind of auditions. So, it is with great pleasure and …

Eff Your Fears with Actress and Model Ashley Monique Menard

August 9th, 2021

1:01:21

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, …

Kristen Hetzel and Keep the Flame Alive Talk Team USA Duathlon & Maintaining Her Acting Career

August 6th, 2021

15:13

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 …

Kristen Hetzel - Actress and Team USA Duathlete Reveals What Artists Can Learn from Sports (REWIND)

August 2nd, 2021

43:34

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 …

Sydney Irving - Young Singer/Songwriter Shares How Hard Work Defines Her as an Artist

July 26th, 2021

39:18

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 …

Sabine Kvenberg - German Actress Who Discovered Musical Theater and a Love for Teaching

July 19th, 2021

49:17

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 …

Damian Thompson - A Jamaican-Born Actor Who Shares How Stuttering Led Him Into Acting

July 12th, 2021

1:08:20

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 …

Ashley Danyew - Musician and Educator Shares the Importance of Being a Portfolio Artist

July 5th, 2021

54:54

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 …

Joshua Turchin - Actor, Composer, and Musical Theater Wunderkind

June 28th, 2021

41:02

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 …

Chloe Noelle - Young Actress from TRUE BLOOD Continues to Learn and Grow in Her Career

June 21st, 2021

46:40

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 …

Alex J. Dean - Young Actor and Director Graduates from Film School During a Pandemic

June 14th, 2021

50:13

Being a coach and leading master classes has been something I truly enjoyed doing. Imparting my experience and insights to students and watching them …

The Flame Podcast Musical with Creators Ellie Brigida and Leigh Holmes Foster

June 7th, 2021

40:46

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 …

Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols

June 2nd, 2021

36:50

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 …

Diane Foy - PR & Marketing Coach Shares Her Roadmap for Actors and Musicians

May 26th, 2021

46:33

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 …

Evelyn LeBel & Chris Stepanek - Broadway Dresser and Off-Broadway Technician Share Their Work and Love of Theater

May 19th, 2021

44:49

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 …

Terry Knickerbocker - New York Acting Teacher and Theater Director Helps Actors Become Their Best

May 12th, 2021

1:15:23

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 …

Kimberly Faye Greenberg - An Actress and Singer Making It as a Broadway Dresser

May 5th, 2021

1:01:21

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 …

MoonAmie Productions - Training Children and Young Adults in the Performing Arts

April 28th, 2021

52:22

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, …

Joel B. New - Musical Theater Composer Learning to Craft Music and Marketing

April 21st, 2021

52:52

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 …

Ashley Kate Adams - Broadway Actress Who Learned How to Be Her Own Producer

April 14th, 2021

55:26

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 …

Marcus Scott - Theater Playwright and Journalist Who Embraces His Inner Black Geek

April 7th, 2021

44:20

On today’s podcast journalist Marcus Scott shares his love of telling stories and how he suddenly found himself writing musicals. 

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Real life writing, that’s really the best way to …

Joyce Hshieh (Part 2) - Line Memorization Techniques to Help Actors OFF BOOK IT

April 2nd, 2021

28:33

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 …

Joyce Hshieh (Part 1) - BFA Trained Actress Becomes Jeopardy Champion

March 31st, 2021

35:17

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 …

Sally Wilfert (Part 2) - ALL THE GIRLS and a Tribute to Broadway’s Leading Lady, Rebecca Luker

March 26th, 2021

32:23

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 …

Sally Wilfert (Part 1) - A Singer’s Journey from the Piano to Broadway

March 24th, 2021

37:55

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 …

Gabrielle Ruiz (Part 2) - EVITA National Tour and Female Representation in the Arts

March 19th, 2021

41:30

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 …

Gabrielle Ruiz (Part 1) - From Broadway Actress to TV Star on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

March 17th, 2021

43:05

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 …

Dorothy Fields and Broadway Collaborations Over Five Decades (Part 2) with Kristin Stultz Pressley

March 12th, 2021

41:12

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 and Her Impact on Broadway Musical Theater (Part 1) with Kristin Stultz Pressley

March 10th, 2021

27:32

This week for Women’s History Month, I’m sharing a special conversation with Dr. Broadway about prolific lyricist and librettist Dorothy Fields, who …

Carrie Bernans (Part 2) - Connecting with Other Actors and Confronting Stereotypes of Black Women

March 5th, 2021

27:23

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 …

Carrie Bernans (Part 1) - From Actress on Stage to Stuntwoman in Black Panther

March 3rd, 2021

33:30

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 …

Brie Eley (Part 2) - Using Her Force for Good in Star Wars and with Fellow Black Actresses

February 26th, 2021

45:03

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, …

Brie Eley (Part 1) - Classically Trained Theater Actress Chooses TV/Film Career

February 24th, 2021

27:04

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 …

Adrienne Walker (Part 2) - Offering Audition and Theater Advice to Fellow Actors with 32 Bar Cut

February 19th, 2021

28:44

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 …

Adrienne Walker (Part 1) - Broadway Actress and Singer Found a Home in The Lion King

February 17th, 2021

39:33

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 …

Erin Cherry (Part 2) - An Actress Producing and Creating Her Own Work

February 12th, 2021

33:49

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 …

Erin Cherry (Part 1) - This Emmy Winning Actress Can Teach Us a Thing or Two

February 10th, 2021

29:57

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 …

Geoffrey Owens (Part 2) - The Trader Joe’s Photo and Shift Happens

February 5th, 2021

36:21

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 …

Geoffrey Owens (Part 1) - So Much More Than Just Elvin on The Cosby Show

February 3rd, 2021

36:01

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 …

Ashley Monique Menard (Part 2) - Writer and Comedian Who Knows What She’s Capable Of

January 29th, 2021

28:26

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 …

Ashley Monique Menard (Part 1) - Actress and Plus Size Model Who Just Wants to Make You Laugh

January 27th, 2021

27:30

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 …

Lauren Ober (Part 2) - How Podcasting Makes a Great Home for Performers

January 22nd, 2021

35:53

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 …

Lauren Ober (Part 1) - Podcaster, Journalist, and Voice Coach Shares Her Spectacular Failures

January 20th, 2021

37:28

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 …

Justin Guarini (Part 2) - Lessons Learned from His Broadway Career after American Idol

January 15th, 2021

45:08

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 …

Justin Guarini (Part 1) - His Bumpy Musical Journey Leading Up to American Idol

January 13th, 2021

39:11

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 …

Look Back at 2020 & the Last Final Five

December 28th, 2020

40:15

A look back at the year that was unlike anything we hoped for or would ever imagine. Still, this podcast had its good moments and a plethora of …

THE PROM Special Episode with Caitlin Kinnunen and Abigail Rose Solomon (REWIND)

December 25th, 2020

59:30

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 …

Sammi Cannold (Part 2) - Don’t Keep Your Distance from This Innovative Theater Director

December 18th, 2020

37:40

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 …

Sammi Cannold (Part 1) - Director Who Shows How Theater Can Be COVID-Safe

December 16th, 2020

40:57

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 …

Christophe Zajac-Denek (Part 2) - Twin Peaks Actor and Podcaster on Dwarfism

December 11th, 2020

41:26

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 …

Christophe Zajac-Denek (Part 1) - Little Person Actor and Musician on Finding Acceptance

December 9th, 2020

50:50

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 …

Cecy Treviño (Part 2) - Her BroadwayMania Actors and Christmas Creative Team

December 4th, 2020

40:19

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 …

Cecy Treviño (Part 1) - Founder and Artistic Director of BroadwayMania

December 2nd, 2020

24:11

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 …

WINMI Recommends: ”The Politics of Culture” on Left, Right & Center

November 30th, 2020

4:56

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Kristen Hetzel, Team USA

November 27th, 2020

12:19

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 Hetzel - Team USA Duathlete on Bettering Our Attitudes with Persistence and Gratitude

November 25th, 2020

39:40

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 …

After the Interview with Tony Howell

November 20th, 2020

21:26

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

Tony Howell - Bettering Our Online Presence and Social Media Strategy

November 18th, 2020

56:57

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 …

Alisa Hurwitz (Dr. Drama) - Bettering Our Mindset for Auditions and Performance

November 13th, 2020

45:11

In part three of the month-long series bettering ourselves bettering our careers, this episode is a continuation from the previous conversation about …

Brooke Macnamara, PhD - Bettering Our Practice and Applying the 10,000 Hours Rule to Actors

November 11th, 2020

56:59

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 …

Lisa Goldberg - Bettering Our Acting Careers through Public Relations

November 4th, 2020

48:29
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 …

2020 Tony Award Nominees with Broadway’s Nate Patten

November 2nd, 2020

46:17

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

FINAL FIVE: Meredith Aleigha Wells

October 30th, 2020

9:19

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 …

Meredith Aleigha Wells - Actor/Singer Who Is Dysfunctioning Just Fine in Her Wheelchair

October 28th, 2020

48:34

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 …

WINMI Recommends: Keep the Flame Alive

October 26th, 2020

5:39

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 …

Charlotte Canning, PhD - The History of Pandemics and Theater Closings

October 21st, 2020

53:40

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. …

Historias Hispanas en Español - Bianca Marroquín, Luis Salgado, Jaime Lozano y Mas

October 15th, 2020

39:06

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 …

Hispanic Stories in English - Matt Zambrano and Dan Domingues

October 14th, 2020

39:36
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 - …

FINAL FIVE: Tadeo Martinez, DFW Theater Critics Outstanding Actor

October 9th, 2020

15:55

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

Hispanic Heritage Month - Tadeo Martinez, BFA in Theater from SMU

October 7th, 2020

57:29

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, …

FINAL FIVE: Bianca Marroquín, who played Chita Rivera in FOSSE

October 2nd, 2020

15:40

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 …

Hispanic Heritage Month - Bianca Marroquín, CHICAGO’s Roxie Hart

September 30th, 2020

1:05:10

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 …

WINMI Recommends: The Industry with Dan Delgado

September 28th, 2020

5:49

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 …

Hispanic Heritage Month - Luis Salgado, Reaching New HEIGHTS Through Dance

September 23rd, 2020

1:01:02
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 …

FINAL FIVE: Jaime Lozano, Voting Member of the Grammys and Latin Grammys

September 18th, 2020

18:18

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 …

Hispanic Heritage Month - Jaime Lozano, Musical Theater Composer

September 16th, 2020

56:11

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 …

You Too Can Be an #ArtsHero with Carson Elrod and Brooke Ishibashi

September 9th, 2020

37:54

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Alex Pires

September 4th, 2020

18:14

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 …

Alex Pires - Actor and Writer of the Comedy Web Series P’s in a Pod

September 2nd, 2020

48:02
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 …

WINMI Recommends: The Tony Howell Podcast

August 31st, 2020

4:45

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

FINAL FIVE: Bart Shatto

August 28th, 2020

17:59

After our conversation on the previous episode, Bart Shatto answers the Final Five. He shares his broadcasting aspirations and his dream to do all …

Bart Shatto - Broadway Veteran on Maintaining Creativity and Artistic Power

August 26th, 2020

1:03:11

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Jason Odell Williams

August 21st, 2020

14:05

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 …

Jason Odell Williams - Playwright and Producer Walking the Line Between Stage and Screen

August 19th, 2020

1:01:40

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.

FINAL FIVE: Eric Jordan Young

August 14th, 2020

11:21

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 …

Eric Jordan Young - Broadway Actor and Singer on the Importance of Letting the Work Inspire You

August 12th, 2020

49:54

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 …

FINAL FIVE: David Ruttura

August 7th, 2020

15:55

After our conversation on the previous episode, David answers the Final Five. He shares his political aspirations, what he's learned from Broadway …

David Ruttura - Broadway’s Associate Director of Plays and Musicals Cuts Loose

August 5th, 2020

55:50

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Mo Brady

July 31st, 2020

7:02

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 …

Mo Brady - Broadway Actor/Podcaster Advocating and Supporting the Ensemblist Community

July 29th, 2020

54:21

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 …

Erin Cronican (Part 2) - Taking Theater Online and Streaming

July 24th, 2020

13:44

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 …

Erin Cronican (Part 1) - Producing Theater in the Midst of COVID and Cancer

July 22nd, 2020

53:09

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Chaz Wolcott Shares an Audition Story

July 17th, 2020

15:52

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 …

Chaz Wolcott - Choreographer and Dancer Goes from NEWSIES to a New Normal

July 15th, 2020

58:47

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Brian Lowdermilk

July 10th, 2020

10:35

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 …

Brian Lowdermilk - LGBTQ Composer and Songwriter from Kerrigan & Lowdermilk

July 8th, 2020

51:47

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Roberto Araujo

July 3rd, 2020

17:18

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 …

Roberto Araujo - Actor, Photographer, and PLAYBILL’s Director of Video Production

July 1st, 2020

53:50

Season 4 Survey: https://winmipodcast.typeform.com/to/SdODaMU7

I first got to know Roberto when putting together the Season Three opener with …

FINAL FIVE: Cris Eli Blak

June 26th, 2020

14:14

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 …

Cris Eli Blak - African-American Actor, Playwright, Producer, and Poet Shares His Story

June 24th, 2020

1:16:12

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 …

Michael Francis McBride - Dancer Who Found Love and Passion at Alvin Ailey

June 17th, 2020

48:11

The third and final look at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater with Michael McBride, a 10-year veteran with the company. Through this …

Samantha Figgins - Dancer and Ballerina Finds a Home at Alvin Ailey

June 10th, 2020

52:02

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 …

Tribute to Alvin Ailey - Dancer & Choreographer Preserving the African-American Cultural Experience

June 3rd, 2020

16:37

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Douglas Sills

May 29th, 2020

14:29

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 …

Douglas Sills - Broadway’s Leading Man Almost Led Another Life

May 27th, 2020

54:05

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Mykal Kilgore and Hannah Elless

May 22nd, 2020

17:55

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 …

Hannah Elless & Mykal Kilgore - Broadway Performers Who Crave New Works and Musicals

May 20th, 2020

1:00:28

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, …

FINAL FIVE: Andrew Lippa

May 15th, 2020

9:39

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, …

Andrew Lippa - Composer and Lyricist on Being a Big Fish in a Little Broadway Pond

May 13th, 2020

50:06

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Hal Luftig

May 8th, 2020

11:44

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 

Hal Luftig - Broadway Producer Finds Value in the Hit Musicals As Well As the Flops

May 6th, 2020

52:26

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, …

FINAL FIVE: Alina Alcántara

May 1st, 2020

10:16

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 …

Alina Alcántara - Actress and Singer Found Passion and Purpose in Theater

April 29th, 2020

44:04

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Seán Cullen

April 24th, 2020

12:51

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 …

Seán Cullen - Stand-up Comedian and Actor on the Serious Business of Being Funny

April 22nd, 2020

1:00:50

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 …

Financial Wellness (Part 2) Rebecca Selkowe from The Actors Fund, COVID Edition

April 17th, 2020

34:55

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 …

Financial Wellness (Part 1) Rebecca Selkowe from The Actors Fund (REWIND)

April 15th, 2020

53:57

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 …

Laziness - How Doing Less Can Bring More Success (Bite-Size Edition)

April 8th, 2020

18:30

Overcome with laziness and procrastination, feeling unmotivated, stuck, and just can’t get started? Believe me, you are not alone. 

But there is hope …

Social Distancing - A Special Coronavirus Conversation with Clayton Howe

April 1st, 2020

46:07

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Tiffany Coyne

March 27th, 2020

15:26

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 …

Tiffany Coyne - LET’S MAKE A DEAL Co-Host & Former Vegas Dancer (Women’s History Month)

March 25th, 2020

40:24

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Charlotte Cohn

March 20th, 2020

17:48

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 …

Charlotte Cohn - Former Tank Commander & Opera Singer Finds Her Voice in Theater (Women’s History Month)

March 18th, 2020

1:00:50

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. …

MAESTRA MUSIC with Georgia Stitt, Advocating Women Musicians in Theater (Women’s History Month)

March 13th, 2020

42:04

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 …

Georgia Stitt - Composer, Lyricist, and Music Director (Women’s History Month)

March 11th, 2020

42:43
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 …

FINAL FIVE: Abigail Rose Solomon

March 6th, 2020

9:59

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 …

Abigail Rose Solomon - Actress and Broadway Producer of Musicals and Plays (Women’s History Month)

March 4th, 2020

58:50

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 …

More AUDITION STORIES 2020 with Lauren Kennedy, Justin Guarini and others!

February 26th, 2020

44:46

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 …

AUDITION STORIES 2020 with Caroline Bowman, Kelvin Moon Loh and more!

February 19th, 2020

50:36

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 …

SING FOR YOUR SENIORS with Founder & Producing Artistic Director Jackie Vanderbeck (Spotlight)

February 12th, 2020

1:00:29
Throughout history artists have known that music provides benefits for both the creator and the listener. It can affect individuals in positive ways …

American Sign Language for Theater - Providing Access to Deaf Audiences with ASL Interpreters

February 5th, 2020

33:22

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 …

Dave Jackson - Hall of Fame Podcaster on How and Why Actors Should Start a Podcast

January 29th, 2020

54:12

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Megan Carver

January 24th, 2020

10:13

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. …

Megan Carver - Actress, Producer, Writer, and Filmmaker

January 22nd, 2020

47:50

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Remy Germinario

January 17th, 2020

10:29

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 …

Remy Germinario - Theater Actor Finding Another Stage with Improv and Stand-Up Comedy

January 15th, 2020

52:44
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 …

FINAL FIVE: Miata Edoga

January 10th, 2020

10:44

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, …

Miata Edoga - TV/Film Actress & Financial Coach with Abundance Bound

January 8th, 2020

1:00:34

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 …

A Look Back at 2019

December 28th, 2019

38:00

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 …

Artists Striving to End Poverty / ASTEP with Samantha Manfred (Spotlight)

December 18th, 2019

44:08
ASTEP was conceived by Broadway Musical Director Mary-Mitchell Campbell and Juilliard students. It’s goal was to transform the lives of youth using …

FINAL FIVE: Mike Isaacson

December 13th, 2019

11:29

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 …

Mike Isaacson - Artistic Director of the Muny on the Challenges of Producing Broadway Musicals

December 11th, 2019

47:25

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Jenny Stafford

December 6th, 2019

11:55

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 …

Jenny Stafford - Lyricist on Writing, Collaboration, and the Day Broadway Called

December 4th, 2019

55:42

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 …

Five Reasons Artists Have to Be Thankful (Bite Size Episode)

November 27th, 2019

17:23

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 …

FINAL FIVE: Misha Osherovich

November 22nd, 2019

9:02

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 …

Misha Osherovich - Actor and Filmmaker on Body Image and His Own Battle with an Eating Disorder

November 20th, 2019

56:51
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 - …

FINAL FIVE: Janine DiVita

November 15th, 2019

9:10

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 …

Janine DiVita - Broadway Actress on Maintaining the Voice and Surviving Under Pressure

November 13th, 2019

45:30

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 …

USO SHOW TROUPE with Janine DiVita for National Military Families Month (Spotlight)

November 6th, 2019

29:31
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 …

Megan Hoxie - Actress in Norwegian Cruise Line’s FOOTLOOSE on Scene Work and Taking Notes

October 30th, 2019

50:45
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 …

KU Talent Agency and Artsplosure with Terri Dollar (Bite Size)

October 25th, 2019

27:03

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 …

Terri Dollar - Arts Director Working with Special Needs Actors in Raleigh

October 23rd, 2019

58:52
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 …

FINAL FIVE: Lauren Kennedy

October 18th, 2019

8:15

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 …

Lauren Kennedy - Broadway Actress and Artistic Director on Auditioning and Being Your Authentic Self

October 16th, 2019

45:46

Having worked with Lauren Kennedy 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 …

FINAL FIVE: Bret Shuford

October 11th, 2019

5:43

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 …

Bret Shuford - Broadway Actor and Life Coach on Being Sober and Dealing with Our Inner Critic

October 9th, 2019

48:37

Bret Shuford has dedicated his life to creating theatre. Most recently, he played Robbie in Cirque Du Soleil’s Paramour. Other credits include …

FINAL FIVE: Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee

October 4th, 2019

13:01

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 …

Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee (Part 2) How to Handle Criticism and the Importance of Recognizing Your Gifts

October 2nd, 2019

30:52

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 …

Caroline Bowman & J. Harrison Ghee (Part 1) Their Broadway Debuts in KINKY BOOTS and Leadership in a Cast

September 30th, 2019

42:45

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 …

Broadway Closings and Listener Questions (Bite-Size Edition)

August 7th, 2019

17:24

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 …

Ben Davis - Broadway Actor and Singer, Tony Award Honoree

June 24th, 2019

56:19

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 …

Ethan Paisley - Filmmaker, Director, Producer and Speaker

June 17th, 2019

47:30

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 …

Thoughts on the 2019 Tony Awards (Bite-Size Edition)

June 10th, 2019

20:58

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 …

Sherryl-Lee Secomb - Actor, Director, Marketer, and An Idiot On Stage

June 3rd, 2019

53:28

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 …

Tony Awards - BEETLEJUICE with Kelvin Moon Loh

June 1st, 2019

1:05:04

The third and final Awards Season Bonus Episode features Kelvin Moon Loh of BEETLEJUICE, nominated for eight Tony Awards.

We discuss his audition for …

Ariel Estrada - Actor, Producer, Founder of Leviathan Lab

May 27th, 2019

57:15

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 …

Drama Desk Awards - FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (IN YIDDISH) with James Monroe Stevko

May 25th, 2019

48:50

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 …

Matthew Stern - Stage Manager, BROADWAY SYMPOSIUM

May 20th, 2019

1:02:02

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, …

Tony Awards - AIN’T TOO PROUD with Joshua Morgan

May 18th, 2019

1:09:36

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 …

Lothair Eaton - Actor, Singer, U.K. and Germany STARLIGHT EXPRESS

May 13th, 2019

1:01:16

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 …

Musical Theater Trivia Challenge with Dr. Broadway (Bite-Size Edition)

May 8th, 2019

14:24

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 …

DR. BROADWAY - Kristin Stultz Pressley PhD, Musical Theatre Historian

May 6th, 2019

1:14:06
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 …

WINMI Host Patrick Oliver Jones on ENTERTAINMENT(X) with Clayton Howe

May 2nd, 2019

1:06:28

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. …

John Ort - Casting Director, Board Member of Artist’s Patron Fund

April 29th, 2019

41:28

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 …

AUDITION STORIES 2019 with Caitlin Kinnunen, Lothair Eaton, Tovi Wayne, Ilana Levine, and more!

April 22nd, 2019

57:49
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 …

THE ACTORS FUND Financial Wellness Program with Rebecca Selkowe (Spotlight)

April 15th, 2019

1:13:29

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 …

Kelly Gabel - Actress, Singer, Coach, Founder of TRIPLE THREAT THERAPY

April 8th, 2019

1:20:42

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 …

Clayton Howe - Actor, Singer, Host of ENTERTAINMENT(X)

April 1st, 2019

1:06:13

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 …

Amy Marie Stewart - Actor, Singer, Vocal Teacher, Founder of THEORY WORKS

March 25th, 2019

50:22

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 …

Ilana Levine - Actress, Singer, Host of LITTLE KNOWN FACTS

March 18th, 2019

58:50

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 …

Caitlin Kinnunen - Actress and Singer, THE PROM on Broadway

March 11th, 2019

57:00

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 …

DRAMA CLUB with Founder & Executive Director Josie Whittlesey (Spotlight)

March 4th, 2019

1:05:55

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 …

Heather Botts - Actress, Singer, Swing in MY FAIR LADY on Broadway

February 25th, 2019

46:43

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 …

Ryan K. Bailer - Actor, Singer, CEO of Ryan Bailer Tech Support

February 18th, 2019

1:13:20

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 …

Tony Howell - Digital Strategist for Creative Artists, Social Media Branding & Marketing

February 11th, 2019

1:09:43

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 …

2019 Broadway Chat with Ryan McPhee, Managing News Editor at PLAYBILL

February 4th, 2019

55:20

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 …

Maggie Bera - Musical Theater Actress, Singer, and ACTOR AESTHETIC Blogger

January 28th, 2019

59:46

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 …

Tovi Wayne - Musical Theater Actor, Joffrey Ballet Dancer, Dance Teacher

January 21st, 2019

53:17

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 …

Cupcakes & Kudisch (Bite-Size Edition)

January 14th, 2019

19:42

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 …

A Look Back at 2018

December 28th, 2018

55:21

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, …

Jury Duty, One Actor’s Journey Into the Justice System (Bite-Size Edition)

December 17th, 2018

36:28

In this episode, Patrick shares one thing that has kept him from auditioning and finding work lately...and that's jury duty. That civic obligation that many try to get out of has become yet another obstacle to making …

John McNally PhD - Award-Winning Author, Screenwriter, Lecturer, English Professor

December 10th, 2018

51:11

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. The most …

NY YOUTH SYMPHONY Jazz Program with Andy Clausen (Spotlight)

December 3rd, 2018

43:55

Andy Clausen is a New York-based composer, trombonist, bandleader, and graduate of The Juilliard School. Hailing from Seattle, Clausen relocated to …

Glasgow Lyman & Jeff Rosick - Writers, Actors, Producers from Hollywood Fringe, WE NEED THIS MUSICAL...

November 26th, 2018

49:21

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 …

NY YOUTH SYMPHONY Musical Theater Composition Program with Anna Jacobs (Spotlight)

November 19th, 2018

47:06

In this episode, we delve into the captivating world of the New York Youth Symphony's Musical Theater Composition program under the direction of the talented Anna Jacobs. As an accomplished composer and lyricist, she …

Michael Wartella - Singer, Songwriter, Broadway Actor in the National Tour of WICKED

November 12th, 2018

57:08

Michael Wartella spent ten years in the city before landing his dream role and first major New York production, RENT at the Off-Broadway venue New …

NY YOUTH SYMPHONY with Conductor Michael Repper (Spotlight)

November 5th, 2018

51:28

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 …

John McGinty - Broadway Actor (Children of a Lesser God), Deaf Advocate and Sign Language Teacher

October 29th, 2018

1:00:05

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 …

Tribute to Marin Mazzie (Bite-Size Edition)

October 22nd, 2018

18:06

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 …

ONLY MAKE BELIEVE with Artistic Director Jackie Miller, Actors Dan Domingues & Jeanette Bonner (Spotlight)

October 15th, 2018

1:00:12

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 …

Chris Coyne - Actor, Singer, Foley Mixer, Emmy-Nominated Sound Editor

October 8th, 2018

59:35

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 …

ONLY MAKE BELIEVE with Founder Dena Hammerstein (Spotlight)

October 1st, 2018

52:24

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 …

Scott Wojcik & Gayle Seay - Casting Directors for Regional Theater, National Tours, and Off-Broadway

September 30th, 2018

53:24

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 …

Joey Fatone - Singer with *NSYNC, TV Host, Broadway Star

June 25th, 2018

1:12:13

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 …

2018 Tony Awards Predictions with PLAYBILL Managing News Editor Ryan McPhee

June 4th, 2018

49:30

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 …

Tony Awards - CAROUSEL with Actor/Singer Nicholas Belton (understudy for Billy Bigelow)

June 1st, 2018

31:05

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 …

Tony Awards - THE BAND'S VISIT with Associate Conductor Jeff Theiss

May 29th, 2018

27:49

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 …

Tony Awards - SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS with Actor/Singer Kelvin Moon Loh

May 18th, 2018

48:44

Tying for the most Tony nominations this Broadway season, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS The Musical is as energetic and colorful as they come. In this bonus …

Tony Awards - ONCE ON THIS ISLAND with Musical Director Alvin Hough, Jr.

May 15th, 2018

32:50

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 …

Grace McLean - Actress, Singer from GREAT COMET & Them Apples

April 9th, 2018

1:01:05

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 …

Erin Cronican - Theater Actress, Producer, Director, Coach

February 26th, 2018

57:37

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 …

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