Bold Beginnings With Sheida

Julie Congress — a Voice and Text Coach whose work has shaped some of Broadway and Off-Broadway’s most powerful productions. Julie has lent her expertise to shows like Company (with Katrina Lenk & Patti LuPone), Motown the Musical, and over 20 productions at The Public Theater, including Shakespeare in the Park.

A frequent collaborator with world-renowned voice director Andrew Wade, Julie has worked on King Lear (with Glenda Jackson), Matilda the Musical, and Othello at NYTW. Beyond Broadway, she is passionate about education, teaching at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, co-directing the Hunts Point Children’s Shakespeare Ensemble, and co-leading her own theater company, No.11 Productions.

From Broadway stages to classrooms in the Bronx, Julie’s journey is a testament to artistry, collaboration, and the power of voice to connect us all.

#BoldBeginnings #DreamChasers #PodcastLife #InspiringVoices #CreativeJourneys #BraveConversations #MindfulLiving #PowerOfBreath #Breathwork #MindfulBreathing #HealingThroughBreath #PresenceAndPeace #BreathingSpace #InnerCalm #BroadwayLife #TheaterMagic #VoiceAndText #ShakespeareInThePark #StageLife #BroadwayCoaching #BehindTheScenesTheater #TeachingThroughTheater #ArtsEducation #EmpowerThroughVoice #CreativeEmpowerment #VoiceMatters #TheaterForChange #JulieCongress #VoiceCoach #TextCoach #No11Productions #PublicTheater #StellaAdlerStudio

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-Breath is essential for life and connection.

-We often take our ability to breathe for granted.

-Breathing can help us face fears and express ourselves.

-Inhalation is linked to inspiration and bravery.

-Finding your voice involves hearing and being heard.

-Breath can help release stored emotions and trauma.

-Breathwork practices can be both scientific and spiritual.

-Breath can ground us in chaotic environments.

-Reclaiming our breath is an act of revolution.

-Breathwork can facilitate profound emotional experiences.

More On Julie:

Website: http://www.no11productions.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMpxkRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHmusfU4ZDwhgEaf77LUPyEJUQsZXZJ5awEtS9w68dEg8-MzcUw_l7Ln8OdIN_aem_XjV7YHcQjc0-L5-7ZB513A

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libraryofcongress/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.congress

Stella Adler School of Acting: https://classes.stellaadler.com/profiles/julie-congress/

Watch Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gsb96x2bwzo

Miles Sternfeld is a New York City-based director, originally from Cleveland, known for reinventing classic works through bold, contemporary lenses to reveal deeper cultural truths. His productions are emotionally charged, visually striking, and unafraid to tackle complex, often unspoken questions.A recent MFA graduate in Directing from Columbia University, where he studied under Anne Bogart, Brian Kulick, and Katie Mitchell, Miles has reimagined works like Sweeney Todd (as a true crime investigation) and Next to Normal (told through 4D audio), alongside staging The Seagull, Romeo & Juliet, and original plays. He has interned with Jamie Lloyd on the Tony-winning Broadway revival of ⁠Sunset Blvd⁠ and Lorin Latarro (Joy).

#MilesSternfeld #TheatreDirector #CreativeLeadership #BoldBeginnings #FearlessArt #InnovativeDirecting #TheatreLife #StageDirection #CreativeVision #ReimaginedClassics #ArtisticInnovation #DirectorsLife #TheatreCommunity #StorytellingOnStage #TheatreMagic #CreativeRisks #PerformanceArt #Stagecraft #ArtisticJourney #DirectingTheatre #ContemporaryTheatre #ClassicPlaysReimagined #TheatreInspiration #BehindTheScenesTheatre#imaginationinaction#oldstories#boldvisions#classicaltext#broadway#broadwaydirector#sunsetboulevard#amition#perseverance#creativity

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-A no can lead to a bigger yes in life.

-Sustaining an artistic career is a significant challenge.

-Balancing multiple projects can enhance creativity.

-Conceptualizing a project involves both analysis and vision.

-Reimagining classic works can provide fresh perspectives.

-Theater must compete with the immediacy of streaming.

-Creating meaningful experiences is essential for audiences.

-The audience's engagement is crucial in theater.

-Founding a theater company requires patience and dedication.

More on Miles:

Website: https://www.milessternfeld.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milessternfeld/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miles.sternfeld

Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/F3KkK9OfSlw

Miles Sternfeld is a New York City-based director, originally from Cleveland, known for reinventing classic works through bold, contemporary lenses to reveal deeper cultural truths. His productions are emotionally charged, visually striking, and unafraid to tackle complex, often unspoken questions.A recent MFA graduate in Directing from Columbia University, where he studied under Anne Bogart, Brian Kulick, and Katie Mitchell, Miles has reimagined works like Sweeney Todd (as a true crime investigation) and Next to Normal (told through 4D audio), alongside staging The Seagull, Romeo & Juliet, and original plays. He has interned with Jamie Lloyd on the Tony-winning Broadway revival of ⁠Sunset Blvd⁠ and Lorin Latarro (Joy).#MilesSternfeld #TheatreDirector #CreativeLeadership #BoldBeginnings #FearlessArt #InnovativeDirecting #TheatreLife #StageDirection #CreativeVision #ReimaginedClassics #ArtisticInnovation #DirectorsLife #TheatreCommunity #StorytellingOnStage #TheatreMagic #CreativeRisks #PerformanceArt #Stagecraft #ArtisticJourney #DirectingTheatre #ContemporaryTheatre #ClassicPlaysReimagined #TheatreInspiration #BehindTheScenesTheatre#imaginationinaction#oldstories#boldvisions#classicaltext#broadway#broadwaydirector#sunsetboulevard#amition#perseverance#creativityKEY TAKEAWAYS:-The world around us influences our artistic work.-Taking risks can lead to unique and memorable performances.-Vulnerability is essential in sharing creative ideas.-Collaboration with actors enhances the storytelling process.-Success is subjective and varies for each individual.-Perseverance helps overcome challenges and rejections.-Ambition drives creativity and the pursuit of new experiences.More on Miles:Website: https://www.milessternfeld.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milessternfeld/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miles.sternfeld

Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/SCO0Qf0ScDk

Miles Sternfeld is a New York City-based director, originally from Cleveland, known for reinventing classic works through bold, contemporary lenses to reveal deeper cultural truths. His productions are emotionally charged, visually striking, and unafraid to tackle complex, often unspoken questions.

A recent MFA graduate in Directing from Columbia University, where he studied under Anne Bogart, Brian Kulick, and Katie Mitchell, Miles has reimagined works like Sweeney Todd (as a true crime investigation) and Next to Normal (told through 4D audio), alongside staging The Seagull, Romeo & Juliet, and original plays. He has interned with Jamie Lloyd on the Tony-winning Broadway revival of ⁠Sunset Blvd⁠ and Lorin Latarro (Joy).

#MilesSternfeld #TheatreDirector #CreativeLeadership #BoldBeginnings #FearlessArt #InnovativeDirecting #TheatreLife #StageDirection #CreativeVision #ReimaginedClassics #ArtisticInnovation #DirectorsLife #TheatreCommunity #StorytellingOnStage #TheatreMagic #CreativeRisks #PerformanceArt #Stagecraft #ArtisticJourney #DirectingTheatre #ContemporaryTheatre #ClassicPlaysReimagined #TheatreInspiration #BehindTheScenesTheatre #ImaginationInAction

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Miles Sternfeld is a New York City-based director, originally from Cleveland, known for reinventing classic works through bold, contemporary lenses to reveal deeper cultural truths. His productions are emotionally charged, visually striking, and unafraid to tackle complex, often unspoken questions.

A recent MFA graduate in Directing from Columbia University, where he studied under Anne Bogart, Brian Kulick, and Katie Mitchell, Miles has reimagined works like Sweeney Todd (as a true crime investigation) and Next to Normal (told through 4D audio), alongside staging The Seagull, Romeo & Juliet, and original plays. He has interned with Jamie Lloyd on the Tony-winning Broadway revival of Sunset Blvd and Lorin Latarro (Joy).

#MilesSternfeld #TheatreDirector #CreativeLeadership #BoldBeginnings #FearlessArt #InnovativeDirecting #TheatreLife #StageDirection #CreativeVision #ReimaginedClassics #ArtisticInnovation #DirectorsLife #TheatreCommunity #StorytellingOnStage #TheatreMagic #CreativeRisks #PerformanceArt #Stagecraft #ArtisticJourney #DirectingTheatre #ContemporaryTheatre #ClassicPlaysReimagined #TheatreInspiration #BehindTheScenesTheatre #ImaginationInAction

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-Remaining calm is crucial for a director.

-Building individual relationships with cast members enhances collaboration.

-Directing is about creating a safe space for actors.

-Innovative directing techniques can transform classic works.

-Balancing personal life and directing requires mindfulness.

-Listening to your inner voice is essential for career decisions.

-Imagination fuels creativity in directing.

-Understanding historical context enriches contemporary interpretations.

-Risk-taking is vital for impactful storytelling.

-The ideas within plays transcend time and resonate with current issues.

More on Miles:

Website: https://www.milessternfeld.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milessternfeld/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miles.sternfeld

Watch Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nGagSt_3uyw

In this heart-opening episode of Bold Beginnings with Sheida, I sit down with Emilia Smith and Alan Lazaros, real-life partners and co-hosts of The Conscious Couples Podcast, for an honest, soulful, and deeply insightful conversation on love, leadership, and building a life together with intention.Alan and Emilia don’t just talk the talk; they have walked through trauma, transformation, and the trenches of entrepreneurship. From surviving near-death moments to building global businesses, from trauma-informed healing to neuroscience-backed strategies, they have woven their individual growth journeys into a powerful We.Together, they share the raw truths and tender lessons behind what makes an intimate relationship truly conscious, and how cultivating love with depth, emotional intelligence, and shared purpose can become the greatest force for growth.I have had the honor of interviewing both Alan and Emilia individually in earlier episodes, where we discussed their personal stories and missions. Be sure to check those out for an even richer understanding of their journeys.Whether you are in a partnership, looking to create one, or simply longing for more authentic connection in your life, this episode is a guidepost back to what matters most.#PodcastInterview #ConsciousRelationships #EmotionalIntelligence #BoldBeginnings #RelationshipGoals #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipAdvice #HealthyRelationships #SelfAwareness #VulnerabilityIsStrength #CouplesCoaching #IntentionalLove #CommunicationSkills #SpeakYourTruth #ThePermissionQuestion #HealingJourney #GrowthMindset #MindfulLiving #NextLevelYou #AuthenticConnection #InnerWork #SelfLeadership #LoveAndGrowth #ModernLove #RealTalk #DeepConversations #PersonalGrowth #ShadowWork #ConsciousCommunication #SelfImprovement #PurposeDriven#emiliasmith#alanlazaros

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-Emotional intelligence is the foundation of relationships.

-Ego serves as a protective mechanism in relationships.

-Healthy conflict is necessary for autonomy in relationships.

-Self-awareness is crucial for emotional regulation.

-Playfulness in relationships indicates psychological safety.

-Healing is a dual process that can occur in relationships.

-You cannot fully heal alone; relationships can aid in healing.

-Growth should be a core focus in relationships.

-Emotional maturity is essential for healthy relationships.

-Commitment to growth helps couples flourish together.

MORE ON EMILIA AND ALAN:EMILIA SMITH:https://evolveventurestech.com/  / evolvewithemilia  ALAN LAZAROS:https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/  / alan.lazaros    / alazaros88  THE CONSCIOUS COUPLES PODCAST:https://open.spotify.com/show/3AC9m5e...

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Watch Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/363N0arHENk

In this heart-opening episode of Bold Beginnings with Sheida, I sit down with Emilia Smith and Alan Lazaros, real-life partners and co-hosts of The Conscious Couples Podcast, for an honest, soulful, and deeply insightful conversation on love, leadership, and building a life together with intention.Alan and Emilia don’t just talk the talk; they have walked through trauma, transformation, and the trenches of entrepreneurship. From surviving near-death moments to building global businesses, from trauma-informed healing to neuroscience-backed strategies, they have woven their individual growth journeys into a powerful We.Together, they share the raw truths and tender lessons behind what makes an intimate relationship truly conscious, and how cultivating love with depth, emotional intelligence, and shared purpose can become the greatest force for growth.I have had the honor of interviewing both Alan and Emilia individually in earlier episodes, where we discussed their personal stories and missions. Be sure to check those out for an even richer understanding of their journeys.Whether you are in a partnership, looking to create one, or simply longing for more authentic connection in your life, this episode is a guidepost back to what matters most.

#PodcastInterview #ConsciousRelationships #EmotionalIntelligence #BoldBeginnings #RelationshipGoals #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipAdvice

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-The process of co-creating a conscious relationship requires self-awareness.-Check-ins are essential for maintaining relationship health.-Vulnerability and courage are key components of effective communication.-The ''permission question'' helps address underlying issues in relationships.-Emotional intelligence is crucial for understanding and connecting with partners.-Many couples operate on autopilot, leading to misunderstandings.-It's important to talk about both positive and negative aspects of a relationship.-Ego can hinder vulnerability and open communication in relationships.-Self-reflection is necessary for personal and relational growth.-Continuous effort is required to maintain a healthy relationship.MORE ON EMILIA AND ALAN:EMILIA SMITH:https://evolveventurestech.com/https://www.instagram.com/evolvewithemilia/ALAN LAZAROS:https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/https://www.facebook.com/alan.lazaroshttps://www.instagram.com/alazaros88/THE CONSCIOUS COUPLES PODCAST:https://open.spotify.com/show/3AC9m5elvqso9ZLcGy97V3?si=49a4f828fdd64973https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-couples-podcast/id1609969734WATCH EPISODE ON YOUTUBE:

https://youtu.be/TEjz0HTvCGY

Bruce Kronenberg is a veteran voice actor, coach, and co-founder of Abacus Entertainment in New York City. With over 25 years of experience in voiceover, stage, and film, Bruce has lent his voice to major campaigns for brands like Mountain Dew, Ford, Toyota, and ESPN, and has voiced promos for CBS, CNN, National Geographic, and more. For nearly a decade, he’s been a sought-after voiceover instructor, known for blending emotional depth with technical precision. Through private coaching, classes, and demo production, Bruce empowers emerging and seasoned talent alike to thrive in today’s competitive VO industry, not just by mastering the mic but by owning their unique artistic voice.

#VoiceOverCoach #BruceKronenberg #VoiceActingTips #BoldBeginningsPodcast #VoiceoverLife #ActingCareer #VoiceActorJourney #VONYC #AbacusEntertainment #BehindTheMic #VOTraining #VoiceOverCommunity #CreativeVoices #ActingCoach #StudioLife #ExpressYourVoice #MicMastery #VOInspiration #ArtistSpotlight #MasterYourVoice #VOExperience #PodcastGuest #VoiceOverWisdom #SoundOnSuccess #VOStorytelling

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-Voiceover is deeply intertwined with the advertising industry.

-Clients often dictate the type of voices they want, impacting voiceover opportunities.

-Authenticity and relatability are key to effective voice performance.

-Limiting beliefs can hinder potential; one's unique voice can be a strength.

-AI technology is changing the landscape of voiceover work.

-Focus and concentration are essential during voiceover sessions.

-It's important to be honest about one's capabilities and interests in voiceover work.

-Don't chase feedback; assume no news is good news after auditions.

-Personalizing the script can enhance the delivery of voice-overs.

-Lessons from difficult experiences can shape a successful career.

More on Bruce Kronenberg:

Website: https://www.abacus.nyc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abacus.nyc/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/abacusentertainmentnyc

Stella Adler Center for the Arts: https://stellaadler.com/profiles/bruce-kronenberg/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/N5EbVT_Lghg

Bruce Kronenberg is a veteran voice actor, coach, and co-founder of Abacus Entertainment in New York City. With over 25 years of experience in voiceover, stage, and film, Bruce has lent his voice to major campaigns for brands like Mountain Dew, Ford, Toyota, and ESPN, and has voiced promos for CBS, CNN, National Geographic, and more. For nearly a decade, he’s been a sought-after voiceover instructor, known for blending emotional depth with technical precision. Through private coaching, classes, and demo production, Bruce empowers emerging and seasoned talent alike to thrive in today’s competitive VO industry, not just by mastering the mic but by owning their unique artistic voice.#VoiceOverCoach #BruceKronenberg #VoiceActingTips #BoldBeginningsPodcast #VoiceoverLife #ActingCareer #VoiceActorJourney #VONYC #AbacusEntertainment #BehindTheMic #VOTraining #VoiceOverCommunity #CreativeVoices #ActingCoach #StudioLife #ExpressYourVoice #MicMastery #VOInspiration #ArtistSpotlight #MasterYourVoice #VOExperience #PodcastGuest #VoiceOverWisdom #SoundOnSuccess #VOStorytelling

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

-You need a professional demo to begin your Voice Over Journey.

-Coaching is essential before recording a demo.

-Improv helps loosen up voiceover artists.

-A demo should sound professional and ready.

-Rejection is a part of the voiceover business.

-You need incredible drive and ambition to succeed.-There's no clear ladder to climb in voiceover.-The ability to interpret copy is crucial.-Voiceover can be a fun side hustle for individuals.

More on Bruce Kronenberg:Website: https://www.abacus.nyc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abacus.nyc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abacusentertainmentnycStella Adler Center for the Arts: https://stellaadler.com/profiles/bruce-kronenberg/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/srKpFRtXXhs

Bruce Kronenberg is a veteran voice actor, coach, and co-founder of Abacus Entertainment in New York City. With over 25 years of experience in voiceover, stage, and film, Bruce has lent his voice to major campaigns for brands like Mountain Dew, Ford, Toyota, and ESPN, and has voiced promos for CBS, CNN, National Geographic, and more. For nearly a decade, he’s been a sought-after voiceover instructor, known for blending emotional depth with technical precision. Through private coaching, classes, and demo production, Bruce empowers emerging and seasoned talent alike to thrive in today’s competitive VO industry, not just by mastering the mic but by owning their unique artistic voice.#VoiceOverCoach #BruceKronenberg #VoiceActingTips #BoldBeginningsPodcast #VoiceoverLife #ActingCareer #VoiceActorJourney #VONYC #AbacusEntertainment #BehindTheMic #VOTraining #VoiceOverCommunity #CreativeVoices #ActingCoach #StudioLife #ExpressYourVoice #MicMastery #VOInspiration #ArtistSpotlight #MasterYourVoice #VOExperience #PodcastGuest #VoiceOverWisdom #SoundOnSuccess #VOStorytellingKEY TAKEAWAYS:-Voice acting can be a fulfilling career path.-Personalization in voiceover is crucial for success.-Actors can transition into voiceover work effectively.-Understanding the copy's (AKA Script for VO) emotional point of view is key.-Marketing oneself is essential in the voiceover industry.-Voiceover work can be pursued from home.-Building a reputation takes time and consistency.-Networking with producers can lead to opportunities.-Trusting your instincts is vital in auditions.-A business plan is necessary for voiceover success.More on Bruce Kronenberg:Website: https://www.abacus.nyc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abacus.nyc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abacusentertainmentnycStella Adler Center for the Arts: https://stellaadler.com/profiles/bruce-kronenberg/

Watch Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pWUf2mRgwKM