Athletes and the Arts

Our topic today is resilience in performance, overcoming obstacles to make it in the performing arts. Tasi and Steven talk with up-and-coming star Anna Dreslinski, a singer/dancer who is currently performing in the opera Ainadamar at the Met in New York. She straddles the worlds of opera and musical theater, performing in shows such as West Side Story, Amadeus, and others, but she’s had to overcome many different issues along the way. This includes hip surgery, injuries keeping her out of rhythmic gymnastics, and abuse at the hands of Dr. Larry Nassar, the imprisoned US Gymnastics physician. Her life lessons are inspirational, and you won't want to miss this episode.

WARNING: This episode discusses sexual abuse, and although no graphic detail is described, the topic may be sensitive for some of our audience, so we want to issue this warning in advance.

For Anna's page with the Met Opera, go to: https://www.metopera.org/discover/artists/soprano/anna-dreslinski/

Instagram @adreslinski

For more on Athletes and the Arts, go to http://www.athletesandthearts.com

Yasi and Steven talk with actress Carolyn Ann Miller about life on and off the stage. She shares about her ups and downs as a NYC actress, her performances in South Pacific and Titanic, and her creation of Safe Space for actors.

Instagram: @carolynannemilleractor

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolyn.a.miller.54/

Bio: Carolyn Anne Miller is a born and raised Chicago native. She moved from Chicago to New York City immediately after graduating college in 2015 and would dare to say that after almost 10 years she is now a proud New Yorker.

However, Chicago hotdogs will always be better than NYC's attempt. Sorry!

Offstage, she's constantly creating, whether it's workshopping her cabaret, interior design, writing in her free time, planning her new musical, free drawing or illustrating her mom's new children's book, or crying and laughing so hard at her favorite place on earth, **SAFE SPACE (IG: @safespacemanhattan). She is also a massive lover of the earth and spends as much time as she can outside!

Carolyn has worked in and out of NYC since moving here. She performed in the 10-person ensemble supporting TITUSS BURGESS in his Carnegie Hall production of Take Me to the World: A Stephen Sondheim Tribute. She's created a home regionally with the Fulton Theatre and Maine State Music Theatre starring in many of their shows including; South Pacific, Nellie Forbush; 9TO5, Doralee Rhodes; Something Rotten, Portia; Spelling Bee, Olive Ostrovsky; Titanic, Kate McGowan, and several more.

**Carolyn and her friend Jenn Smith created Safe Space, a judgement-free, supportive, and encouraging performance event during the pandemic. Their goal was to provide space to those who lost their space, had no space, or wanted to try out space just for fun. We welcome folks from all across the spectrum of artists, ranging from Broadway artists to artists who are singing in front of folks for their very first time! We occasionally offer professional video and we ALWAYS offer a supportive community, fabulous vibes, and an unforgettable night! We exist purely to raise up and encourage all artists!​​​

Join Yasi and Steven as they welcome strength & conditioning coach Ash Wang onto the show. They discuss Ash's career journey through classical violin training, studying neuroscience, making Soulcycle playlists, building a strength and nutrition coaching business, writing her recipe book, and following her intuition all along the way.

For Ash's book "Alimentary: A Nutrition and Recipe Companion For the Athlete", go to https://www.ashwang.fit/shop

For Ash's website, go to https://www.ashwang.fit

Instagram: @ash_lucy_wang

Bio: Ash Wang comes with 7 years of professional experience in the health industry, alongside an educational background in Neuroscience and classical violin.

She started her professional journey with in-person training and group fitness in the high-octane NYC market and has since transitioned her business to being solely-based online, removing geographical barriers. Ash coaches individuals from all walks of life, improving nutritional habits and training performance.

Ash’s fitness journey began in dingy college gyms, not knowing the difference between a barbell and a dumbbell, experimenting with different styles of strength-training and dabbling in “powerbuilding” for years. At 25, she landed on the sport of Olympic Weightlifting and has fallen in love with the obsessive, technically complex, and thrilling nature of the sport — She has not looked back since.

Outside of the gym, Ash is an avid consumer of scientific research literature, spending too much time (and money) at her local coffee shop delving into various topics of interest including, but not limited to, gerontology, food politics, and food history. In her spare time, she loves writing and creating art.

She published her first Nutritional Coaching Guide & Recipe Book, and the hardbound edition comes out January 2025.

Sparty, the mascot for Michigan State University, is perhaps the most well-know mascot in sports today. To be that famous, you need a whole team to support you. And Michigan State has the first mascot sports medicine program in the country. On our show today is Sue Petrisin, director of the Sparty Mascot Program and Ashley Tripplett, Sparty's research coordinator.  Why does Sparty have a research coordinator? Because Sparty has a sports medicine team around him doing ground-breaking research on the physical demands of the job. Sue and Ashley talk all things Sparty, the good, bad, and just plain funny.  But they also share their research they presented at the American College of Sports Medicine, gained from internal and external monitoring of Sparty's health and wellness.  They also share their hopes to spur more colleges to follow their lead into developing mascot sports medicine programs.

For scheduling Sparty for an event, go to https://alumni.msu.edu/sparty/appearance-request.cfm

For more about the history of Sparty, go to https://alumni.msu.edu/sparty/history.cfm

Instagram: @therealsparty

Bios:

Sue Petrisin is the Director of the Sparty Mascot Program at Michigan State University, a program under the MSU Alumni Office. Sue holds a master’s degree in labor relations and human resources, along with bachelor’s degrees in food science and dietetics, all from Michigan State University. An MSU employee for 39 years, she spent 29 years in the Division of Residence Education and Housing Services (formerly Housing and Food Services).

Sue joined the MSU Alumni Office, overseeing university programs such as Homecoming, Alumni Travel, Alumni Grand Awards, and Grandparents University before being assigned responsibility for the Sparty Mascot Program in 2014. As the demands of managing the Sparty Mascot Program grew, her other program responsibilities were reassigned to other staff members.

After spending time watching Sparty in action and evaluating the program’s operations, she identified several areas that needed improvement. These included the condition of the suit, the selection and training processes, Sparty’s presence at events – both on- and off-campus, whether university or private - and his public perception among public, alumni and university faculty, staff and students.

Recognizing there was health impact on the student performing as Sparty, Sue sought assistance to help others understand what these students experienced and the need for additional support and focus for the program. This led to a research project with the Michigan State University Department of Kinesiology.

The health and safety of our students is always priority one.  We have established policies and procedures that guide our program.

Sue is joined by Assistant Director Jill Wesley in managing the Sparty Mascot Program, one of the most recognized mascots in the world.

Ashley Triplett is the Research Coordinator for the Sparty Mascot Program at Michigan State University. She has been working with the program since 2019 to better understand physiological responses of individuals serving as mascots and improve the health and safety of students participating in the Sparty Mascot Program. Ashley completed her PhD in Kinesiology at Michigan State University in 2021. She also earned her M.S. in Kinesiology and B.S. degrees in Kinesiology and Human Biology at Michigan State University.

How does one take music, rapping, writing, performing and turn that into a career? On our show today is recording artist Derek Demkowicz, aka Demko, and Michael Reiber, head of marketing for Headlights Hip Hop and Derek’s buddy from high school.  We discuss how they started in music, the value of comedy improv training, and the benefits of controlling your own destiny.  Derek and Michael also talk about their hip hop concert they are putting on in Detroit on May 18, 2024.

For Demko's Spotify page, go to: https://open.spotify.com/artist/36bOXFMGTOcg3fNGsqVZhi?si=4_X9uuIAShijrEfyKpFHgQ

For Demko's Apple Music page, go to https://music.apple.com/us/artist/demko/1557597311

Demko's IG: @demkomusic

For more resources on performing arts medicine, go to www.athletesandthearts.com

Bios:

Derek Brian Demkowicz, AKA Demko, is an LA-based rapper, producer, and sound engineer with Detroit and Chicago roots. As an independent artist he has gained over 250k streams worldwide, released songs with Grammy-nominated artists, and connected with fans in 150+ countries. Notable collaborations include: Royce Da 5’9”, Mick Jenkins, GAWNE, and Futuristic. Stream Demko wherever you listen to music.

Michael Reiber has years of music industry experience out of New Orleans, Detroit, New York, and currently Nashville. His passion for human connection through music and creative brand storytelling has been the focus of his work since the beginnings of his career at Loyola University New Orleans, where he started his first marketing company in 2016. Today, Michael is the Head of Marketing for Headlights Hip-Hop, a rap start-up headquartered in Detroit, and manages Demko, his lifelong friend that he met through music in high school at U of D Jesuit.

Classical music is pervasive and ubiquitous and yet for many people, it is difficult to connect with. We met one classical pianist who makes it her mission to connect with audiences and bring her joy of classical music to the masses. She is the extraordinary Jeeyoon Kim. a multi-hyphenate musician-author-blogger-podcaster-educator-and-performer. Our Athletes and the Arts founder Randy Dick caught up with Jeeyoon recently and he’s here with her on our show today.

For more on Jeeyoon, go to https://www.jeeyoonkim.com

Instagram @jeeyoonkimpianist

X: @jeeyoon_pianist

For Athletes and the Arts, go to www.athletesandthearts.com

Bio:  Award-winning classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim has delighted audiences across the United States and the world with her combination of sensitive artistry, ‘consummate musicianship, impeccable technique, and engaging and innovative concert experiences.’ (New York Classical Review)

​From the start of her career, beginning with her celebrated 2016 debut album, 10 More Minutes, Jeeyoon has thrilled classical music fans with her artful performances. Through her unique performance presentations, Jeeyoon has connected with concert attendees decidedly younger than the average by engaging in musical conversations from the stage. Her second album and concert project, Over. Above. Beyond., further stretched the mold for classical piano performances by collaborating with New York-based artist Moonsub Shin. Jeeyoon's collaboration with the artist delivered a multimedia experience that was also captured in an award-winning music video. Kim’s following project titled, 시음/si-úm/, began during her 2020 residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity for their 'Concert in the 21st Century' program. This concert project incorporates poetry and black and white photography. Jeeyoon's dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music to connect with a new audience has inspired a dedicated and passionate fanbase that defies conventional wisdom.

Jeeyoon began studying the piano when she was just four years old, and her love of music propelled her through her undergraduate studies in piano performance in her native Korea. After moving to the United States, she received her Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance with Distinction from Indiana University’s renowned Jacobs School of Music.

In pursuit of a deeper understanding of music education, she earned a second master's degree in piano pedagogy from Butler University, where she concurrently served as a faculty member. As a testament to Jeeyoon’s abilities as an educator, she was recognized with the 'Top Music Teacher Award' from Steinway & Sons for three consecutive years, from 2016 to 2018.

Jeeyoon is an author, educator, public speaker, podcaster, and award-winning performer. In 2021, she published her first book, Whenever You’re Ready, offering readers a personal glimpse into her life. This self-help book in a concert-style structure shares wisdom and insights gained from Jeeyoon's musical experiences. After a successful reception throughout North America and Europe, the book was published in South Korea in 2022. The book, translated into Korean by the author herself, has made it to the top 3 best sellers in South Korea in the self-help category. Jeeyoon Kim currently resides in San Diego. Between a busy concert touring schedule, she happily practices her piano daily, maintains a studio full of dedicated piano students, and surfs each morning at sunrise.

Yasi and Steven welcome prolific researcher and NEAMA Vice-President Dr. Tomi-Ann Roberts PhD to discuss her work on objectification and sexualization in dance.  We also examine the negative effects of social media on one's mental health and how a simple three-day cleanse off of social media had surprising and powerful results. Our conversation delves into college NIL (name, image, and license) money and how this all connects with male athletes as well.  

For more about "ways of Seeing" by John Berger, go to https://www.ways-of-seeing.com

For more on Dr. Roberts and her work, go to https://www.tomi-annroberts.com

For more info on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.com

Bio: Dr. Roberts has been covered in many media sources including the New York Times about how her experience of being sexually harassed by Harvey Weinstein while a college student motivated her work on sexual objectification, contributing her scholarly voice to the #MeToo movement. In addition to her scholarly publications and teaching, she served on the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on the Sexualization of Girls, the Task Force on Educating Through Feminist Research, and as President of the Society for Menstrual Cycle Research from 2017-2019. She leverages feminist psychological science as a consultant for reproductive health related product brands, and as an expert witness in legal cases involving objectification and sexualization as forms of gender discrimination.

Our esteemed guest is Jack Noseworthy, long-time veteran on Broadway, TV, and film, to talk about his career and his process as an actor. He also is a Individual Giving Officer for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Since 1988 they have led the fight against AIDS, becoming the nation’s leading industry-based nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. They have raised over $300 million dollars to fight AIDS, as well as COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Noseworthy also formed Truworthy Productions with his husband, Tony-award winning choreographer Sergio Trujillo, and they are producing a stage production of the 2002 hit film "Real Women Have Curves". The show opened December 2023 at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge Massachusetts, and they aim to open on Broadway within the near future.

For more about Broadway Cares and how to donate, go to https://broadwaycares.org

For more about Jack's production company and their shows, go to http://www.truworthy.com

Instagram @jack_noseworthy

For more info on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://athletesandthearts.com

Bio: Jack Noseworthy is the co-founder of Truworthy Productions along with Tony and Olivier Award-winning Director/Choreographer Sergio Trujillo. In their Truworthy venture, Jack is passionate about bringing authentic, diverse, and socially conscious works of theater, film, and television to life.

He is an acclaimed producer and dynamic, experienced fundraiser on the Major Gifts team at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, where he successfully collaborates with colleagues, helping to grow and steward relationships for their annual giving society, the Angels, and Visionary Circle, responsible for raising $4M of the foundation’s annual budget. In addition, Jack manages the Broadway Cares NextGen Network—creating giving opportunities for young professionals with a passion for giving back to the community.

In partnership with seven-time Tony winning legendary producers Fran & Barry Weissler, Jack is the lead producer on Lisa Loomer’s new musical Real Women Have Curves, with music and lyrics by seven-time Grammy award winning artist Joy Huerta (Jesse & Joy) and her partner Fred Ebb/ Jonathan Larson recipient Benjamin Velez. Real Women Have Curves – The Musical will premiere at The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in December 2023. For A.R.T., Jack also produced Arrabal (Elliot Norton Award for Best Production and Gala Production at the Ibero- American Theater Festival in Bogotá, Colombia).

Jack produced Playbill’s ¡Viva Broadway! Hear Our Voices concert for The Broadway League, Voices for Change at Ars Nova, as well as NextGen Spotlight and Home for the Holidays for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, raising over $350k for artists struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

His producing career has been bolstered by 33 years as a stage and screen actor. Jack made his Broadway debut in Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, which was followed by Cats, A Chorus Line, Sweet Smell of Success, and the original Toronto company of the international hit, Come From Away. Some of his favorite screen credits include his debut in Encino Man, as well as ALIVE, Event Horizon, The Brady Bunch Movie, Undercover Brother, Cecil B. Demented, Killing Kennedy, and several Jonathan Mostow films including Surrogates, Breakdown, and U-571. His television credits include Elvis, Mrs. Cage, Shades of Blue, CSI, Judging Amy, Crossing Jordan, Law & Order, Law & Order SVU, and Dead at 21.

Jack received his Master’s Degree in Performing Arts Administration from New York University and is a proud graduate of The Boston Conservatory at Berklee as well as the Commercial Theatre Institute.

Figure skating is similar to gymnastics and even dance, where there is an aesthetic and athletic component to competition. This is a sport where we see incredible displays of athleticism, as well as beauty and grace. So Yasi and Steven wanted to learn more about the life and training of a competitive figure skater by talking to one of the best in U.S. figure skating history, Todd Eldredge.  We are also joined by Athletes and the Arts founding member--and Todd's skating prodigy--Julie Kirchen.

For more about Todd, go to https://toddeldredge.co

For more on U.S. Figure Skating, go to https://www.usfigureskating.org

For resources and info on Athletes and the Arts, go to http://athletesandthearts.com

Bio:

Todd Eldredge: His World Championship title, six U.S. National Championship titles, six World Championship medals and having achieved three Olympic teams, are testament to his incredible technical skill, consistency, and intense work ethic.

Eldredge, began skating at age of 5, winning his first U.S. Championship title (1990) at age 18. He defended his title in 1991 and made his first appearance on the World podium that same year. For the next three seasons he struggled with injury. His return to the top of the U.S. podium in 1995 marked the first time a skater in U.S. history reclaimed the title of U.S. Champion after a 3-year absence from the podium.

On March 21, 1996, Todd Eldredge became the first American in 8 years to win the gold medal (since Brian Boitano) at the World Championships.

After his third Olympics in 2002, Eldredge joined the renowned Stars on Ice tour where he entertained audiences across the U.S., Japan, and Canada for 11 years. In 2008, he was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

We shine our spotlight on the New Orleans Musician's Clinic, the only low or no-cost medical clinic in the United State dedicated to caring for performing artists. They have been a founding member of Athletes and the Arts since our launch 10 years ago, and their outreach includes preventing noise-induced hearing loss.  Joining Yasi and Steven on the show are Taylor Cohen, Public Health Director, Kalie Falls, Community Outreach, Ngoma Numu Jordan, New Orleans musician, and Dr. Marshall Chasin, director of research and chief audiologist of the Musicians' Clinics of Canada. 

For more information on the clinic, go to https://neworleansmusiciansclinic.org

For Dr Chasin's clinic, go to https://marshallchasinassociates.ca/index.htm

For Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.com

To listen to Ngoma's 2021 album, "Ngoma Numu", go to https://music.apple.com/us/album/ngoma-numu/1578706106