Swing for the Fences with The Albatross Cafe: Where Winners, Wonders, and Weird Rules Collide!

Dive into the chaotic charm of The Albatross Cafe, the heart-pounding segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast that's equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and downright bizarre. Hosted by the irrepressible Marty Merman (still kicking despite those shingles!), this episode packs a punch with tales of triumph, toe-tapping tunes, and baseball brain-teasers that will have you laughing out loud and hitting that subscribe button faster than a home run.

Marty's Muse Takes the Reins: From Racetrack Riches to AI Poetry Shenanigans

Fresh off a big win at the track, Marty channels his inner bard with the help of AI to craft an epic (and epically twisted) ode to his longshot horse, Bella's Elbow. Expect rhymes that veer into vampire territory ... because why not?

Esther's Pentagram of Profiles: Celebrating the Flash-in-the-Pan Phenoms

Marty's mom, Esther Merman, steals the show with her sassy countdown of the greatest one-hit wonders ever. From disco divas to Celtic pop kings, she'll have you humming along and questioning why we can't love more than one song.

Agnes Explains the Inexplicable: Unraveling Baseball's Baffling Infield Fly Rule

The enigmatic Agnes breaks down MLB's most head-scratching rule with crystal-clear logic... interspersed with surreal sidebars about kidneys, ice baths, and deceptive plays. It's educational, eerie, and endlessly entertaining.

Stop What You're Doing And Listen!

• Hear Marty's triumphant racetrack yarn and his hilariously mangled AI-generated poem that mashes up horse racing with Twilight lore, guaranteed to leave you in stitches and rooting for more underdog stories.
• Jam out with Esther as she profiles iconic one-hit wonders like "Ring My Bell," "Spirit in the Sky," and "Come On Eileen," dishing on their quirky backstories and why we're all just "fickle bastards" when it comes to music.
• Get schooled by Agnes on the infield fly rule's nitty-gritty details, complete with vivid scenarios that protect runners from sneaky defenses ... plus bizarre interruptions that add a layer of Electric Secrets' signature weirdness.

If this wild ride of longshots, musical magic, and rulebook riddles has you hooked, you're in for a treat! Subscribe to the Electric Secrets variety podcast now on your favorite platform to catch every episode of The Albatross Cafe, plus mind-bending segments like Crisis Existential and Carney Koalas on Strike. Produced by MonsterVox Productions, Electric Secrets is your go-to for laugh-out-loud variety that keeps the surprises coming. Don't miss out on the fun, or you'll be left in the dust like a forgotten one-hit wonder!

This has been a presentation of MonsterVox Productions. All persons in this podcast are fictional, and resemblance to any person living or dead is purely coincidental and not intended by the creator.

Monster Vox Productions LLC.

About Scott Smith, Voice Actor

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.

Unfiltered Artistic Inspiration at Bucyrus Tap House

Join host Scott Leon Smith and marketing guru Abbey Kanellakis in this lively episode of Struck to the Soul, a segment of the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast, recorded live at the Bucyrus Tap House in Bucyrus, Ohio. This episode dives into the fleeting, powerful moments in film that ignite creativity and linger in the soul, shaping artists and their craft. From iconic snarls to subtle glances, Scott and Abbey unpack the cinematic sparks that drive emotional and artistic impact, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their own creative journeys.

Key Takeaways

• Cinematic Moments as Creative Catalysts: Iconic scenes, like Harrison Ford’s snarl in Raiders of the Lost Ark or Meryl Streep’s subtle expressions in The Deer Hunter, deliver “acute catharsis,” galvanizing viewers and inspiring artists to capture authentic emotion in their work.

• Authenticity Over Perfection: Chasing perfection can overshadow the genuine, visceral moments that define great art. Recognizing and harnessing these moments, as seen in a testimonial video where a single word, “electrifying” lit up a speaker’s face, elevates creative impact.

• Maturity Enhances Appreciation: Revisiting films with a mature lens reveals deeper layers of meaning, as seen in re-watching classics like Jaws or The Breakfast Club, where technical brilliance and emotional resonance hit harder with life experience.

Why Listen?

This episode is a must for artists, filmmakers, and anyone who’s ever been moved by a fleeting moment on screen. Scott and Abbey’s passionate discussion, peppered with humor and nostalgia, will inspire you to seek out and cherish the sparks that fuel creativity. Tune in to explore how these moments shape not just art, but life.

Where to Find More

Check out additional segments of the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast on the Brain Candy menu at MonsterVoxProductions.com. Join the conversation about creativity and share your own “struck to the soul” moments!

Get ready to crank up the volume and feel the soul-shaking, microphone-melting energy of two legendary vocalists in the latest episode of The Unforgettable Voice, a segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast!

Hosted by the ever-charismatic Scott Leon Smith and featuring vocal expert Lori Turner, this episode dives headfirst into the raw, unfiltered power of Janis Joplin and Tina Turner. Recorded live at the vibrant Richland Academy of the Arts in Mansfield, Ohio—where young performers are crafting their own vocal magic, this episode is a high-octane tribute to two women who broke every rule in the vocal handbook and still left audiences begging for more.

Expect laughs, insights, and a whole lotta passion as Scott and Lori unpack what makes these voices unforgettable.

What You'll Hear

• Janis Joplin’s Banshee Wail Meets Heartfelt Ballads: Scott and Lori explore how Janis Joplin’s gritty, blues-rock scream in hits like “Piece of My Heart” wasn’t just chaos; it was a deliberate, passionate choice. From her surprising soft and gentle moments on a Dick Cavett talk show to her raw socio-political protest through sound, Janis redefined what it meant to sing the blues as a white woman in the 60s.

• Tina Turner’s Full-Body Fire: Lori breaks down Tina’s electrifying vocal attack, which surges from the soles of her feet to the top of her range. Whether she’s shimmying through “Proud Mary” or belting out “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” Tina’s storytelling and physicality set her apart. Plus, Scott can’t resist geeking out over her iconic role as the villain in Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome ... because who else sings a Bond theme and rules a post-apocalyptic wasteland?

• Why We Need More Voices Like These: In a world of overproduced pop, Scott and Lori lament the lack of passion in today’s music scene. They draw parallels to modern artists like Amy Winehouse, Pink, and Lady Gaga, who carry the torch of raw authenticity, and speculate on where Janis and Tina would fit in today’s image-obsessed industry.

What You'll Take Away

• Passion Trumps Perfection: Janis and Tina prove that raw, unpolished emotion can outshine technically “perfect” vocals, drawing listeners in with their heart and soul.

• Vocal Choices Define Artistry: Both singers made deliberate stylistic choices: Janis with her raspy protest and Tina with her full-body power, showing that knowing your instrument is key to iconic performances.

• Storytelling Is King: From Janis’s socio-political screams to Tina’s narrative-driven performances, their ability to tell stories through song remains a gold standard for artists today.

Loved the rasp, the passion, and the pure diva energy? Subscribe to Electric Secrets on your favorite podcast platform to catch every episode of The Unforgettable Voice and other wild segments like The Albatross Cafe. Want more? Head over to MonsterVox Productions for behind-the-scenes goodies and updates on all things Scott Leon Smith. 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage, or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed are those of its participants and may not reflect those of any podcasting platform or hosting service.

In this episode of Dedicated to the Craft, a segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast by MonsterVox Productions, host Scott Leon Smith dives deeper into the art of scene work. This episode builds on previous discussions by introducing the concept of working within given circumstances, using a scene called The Waiting Room to illustrate how actors can apply tactics and objectives to bring a script to life.

Key Themes and Concepts

Scott emphasizes the importance of tactics and objectives in acting, focusing on how they create dynamic, believable performances. This episode introduces the concept of breaking a scene into beats and applying specific tactics to each, ensuring a natural escalation of conflict and tension.

Recap of Tactics and Objectives

• Tactics: Specific, actionable verbs (e.g., "proclaim," "comfort," "provoke") that actors use to drive their performance, fueled by imagination and vocal energy.

• Objectives: A combination of a tactic and a desired outcome (e.g., "hassle them so that they apologize").

• Focal Point: Tactics and objectives always target a specific entity, such as another character, the audience, or an abstract concept.

• Beats: Dividing a scene into manageable parts to assign unique tactics for each character, creating a sense of rising action.

Analyzing The Waiting Room

Scott introduces a short scene titled The Waiting Room, featuring characters Alex and Jamie in a hospital waiting room. The dialogue has a melodramatic, poetic quality, which poses a challenge for actors to avoid playing the mood and instead focus on tactics.

Applying Tactics to Performance

Scott demonstrates how applying these tactics brings the scene to life, creating tension and conflict. By reading the scene with tactical energy, he shows how actors can make dialogue feel natural and dynamic, even with poetic or abstract language. He stresses that tactics, not mood, drive realistic performances, citing examples like Shakespeare and Waiting for Godot.

Interactive Exercise: The Bridge

Scott challenges listeners to apply the same techniques to a new scene, The Bridge, featuring characters Sam and Riley. The context is that they meet on a bridge at dusk, with an unspoken history between them.

Exercise Instructions

• Read the Scene: Access The Bridge via the podcast transcript at www.monstervoxproductions.com under the Electric Secrets podcast page.

• Break into Beats: Divide the scene into manageable parts.

• Assign Tactics and Objectives: For each beat, assign a tactic for Sam and Riley, focusing on their vocal energy and objectives.

• Experiment: Read the scene with a partner, sitting back-to-back, to focus on vocal energy rather than physical performance. Experiment with different tactics to explore the scene’s dynamics.

• Feedback: Email [email protected] for feedback on your work.

Looking Ahead

In the next episode, Scott will explore sense memory and emotional memory to add depth to characters and scenes, building on the foundation laid in this episode.

About Dedicated to the Craft

Part of the Electric Secrets variety podcast, Dedicated to the Craft offers practical acting techniques and exercises for performers. Other segments include BizVox for small businesses and The Unforgettable Voice, focusing on vocal performance.

Get Involved

Want to start your own podcast? MonsterVox Productions offers professional podcast packages with remote recording, editing, music, and promotion. Contact them for a free consultation and enjoy 10% off your first package and 20% off your first upgrade.

Empowering Communities With United Way of North Central Ohio

Join host Scott Leon Smith on BizVox, part of the Electric Secrets variety podcast, as he dives into the world of philanthropy with Amber Wertman, CEO of the United Way of North Central Ohio. In this engaging episode, Scott and Amber discuss the United Way’s 2024-25 annual campaign, which successfully raised $1.2 million to fund over 60 programs across Crawford, Marion, Morrow, Seneca, and Wyandot counties.

Amber shares insights into their focus areas: successful children, healthy families, self-sufficient residents, and the new addition of strong communities, while highlighting the transparency and local impact of every dollar donated. From innovative fundraising events like purse bingo to impactful training like Bridges Out of Poverty, this episode is packed with inspiration for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit enthusiasts.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Local Impact Matters: Discover how United Way of North Central Ohio ensures donations stay local, directly supporting programs in a five-county region with a transparent, community-driven funding process.

2. Volunteer Power: Learn about easy, flexible volunteer opportunities, like reviewing funding applications online, that make a real difference in deciding which programs get supported.

3. Community Resilience: Hear about the new “strong communities” focus, addressing needs like disaster relief and Main Street revitalization, showing how United Way adapts to evolving community challenges.

Get Involved: Ready to make a difference? Visit unitedway.org to find your local United Way branch (the North Central Ohio United Way is here) and explore volunteer opportunities, donate, or even start a workplace campaign. For North Central Ohio residents, reach out to Amber’s team to join events like “Raise a Glass” or purse bingo, or volunteer as a funding reviewer. It's flexible and impactful, no in-person meetings required!

Subscribe to BizVox on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts for more inspiring stories and bonus content. Want to amplify your business’s voice? Visit MonsterVoxProductions.com for affordable podcasting packages with free consultations.

Ryan Carver’s “Gold Standard” Branding Sets Him Apart in the Service Industry

In this engaging episode of BizVox, a segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast, host Scott Smith sits down with 18-year-old entrepreneur Ryan Carver in a bustling local coffee shop. Recorded just before Ryan’s high school graduation in May, the interview dives into his thriving lawn care and landscaping business, which he’s transformed from a childhood chore into a promising enterprise. Ryan’s ambition, self-taught skills, and clear vision for the future shine through as he discusses his branding, growth strategies, and dreams of building a multi-billion-dollar company. Beyond business, Ryan goes on to reveals his passion for music as a guitarist and singer in his band, Cruz Campo, adding another layer to his multifaceted journey.

Scott, a Gen Xer, reflects on his own youth, marveling at Ryan’s drive and wishing he’d had such clarity at 18. This episode is a refreshing blend of inspiration, practical insights, and nostalgic musings, perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone rooting for the next generation.

Key Takeaways

• Set Clear Goals and Take Calculated Risks: Ryan emphasizes the importance of defining a business goal and breaking it down into actionable steps, acknowledging that entrepreneurship requires persistence and a willingness to face potential setbacks.

• Branding Builds Trust: By creating a professional website, logo, and “The Gold Standard” slogan, Ryan establishes reliability in a competitive industry, proving that thoughtful branding can elevate even a small business.

• Diversify Your Passions: Ryan balances his landscaping business with his music career, showing that pursuing multiple interests can keep you motivated without detracting from your primary goals.

Be A Guest

Attention Ohio business professionals. BizVox needs your voice. We're booking guests for our first season. If you're a new entrepreneur, a veteran, small business owner, an overstressed nonprofit warrior, or a grizzled guru of the grind, and you'd like to be a guest on our podcast, Hey, it's easier than morning coffee. Just reach out with a friendly email to [email protected]. Big voices are always welcome back to the show.

What Is BizVox

BizVox is your go-to podcast for business inspiration. Follow us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and subscribe for fun bonus content and exclusives. Need some help with your business's podcast? Check out MonsterVox Productions.com for professional and affordable podcasting packages with free consultation. Small business, big voice. This is BizVox.

 The Legal Stuff

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage, or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Gen X Mom: The Unforgettable Voice of Julie Kavner

🎙️ Dive into the iconic world of The Simpsons with the latest episode of The Unforgettable Voice, a segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast, produced by MonsterVox Productions! This week, host Scott Leon Smith celebrates the legendary voice acting of Julie Kavner, the voice behind Marge Simpson, in an episode titled "Gen X Mom: The Unforgettable Voice of Julie Kavner." Discover how Kavner’s masterful voiceover work brings depth, humor, and heart to one of TV’s most beloved characters.

Why You Can’t Miss This Episode

For nearly four decades, Julie Kavner has defined Marge Simpson’s voice, blending motherly strength with raw vulnerability in a way that resonates with generations. From The Simpsons’ early days to its cinematic milestone, The Simpsons Movie, this episode explores how Kavner’s voice acting transforms a cartoon mom into a cultural icon. Whether you’re a fan of The Simpsons, a voiceover enthusiast, or curious about the art of storytelling through voice, this episode is packed with insights and iconic moments that’ll make you laugh, reflect, and appreciate Kavner’s craft.

Three Key Takeaways You’ll Hear

• The Power of Voice Acting: Learn how Julie Kavner uses her voice to balance strength and vulnerability, making Marge Simpson a relatable and unforgettable character.

• Versatility in Voiceover: Discover how Kavner transforms Marge’s gravelly tone into the sarcastic, biting voices of Patty, Selma, and Jacqueline Bouvier.

• Emotional Depth in Animation: Hear how Kavner’s 100+ takes for a pivotal Simpsons Movie scene showcase her dedication to delivering raw, heartfelt voiceover performances.

Elevate Your Project with MonsterVox Productions

Inspired by Julie Kavner’s iconic voice acting? MonsterVox Productions is your go-to for professional voiceover services and podcast production! Whether you need a dynamic voice for commercials, animations, or audiobooks, or want to launch your own podcast, our expert team delivers studio-quality results tailored to your vision.

• Voiceover Services: Professional, versatile voiceovers for any project, from ads to animated characters.

• Podcast Production: Full-service support, including recording, editing, music, and voiceover for intros and sponsorships.

• Exclusive Offer: Get 10% off your first podcast package and 20% off your first upgrade!

📞 Contact us at [email protected] or visit monstervoxproductions.com for a free consultation. Let MonsterVox Productions make your story unforgettable!

Listen Now and Subscribe

Don’t miss this deep dive into Julie Kavner’s voice acting legacy on The Simpsons! Subscribe to Electric Secrets for new episodes of The Unforgettable Voice and other segments like Dedicated to the Craft and Rustic Shakespeare. Share your thoughts or suggest topics at [email protected].

#TheSimpsons #JulieKavner #Voiceover #VoiceActing #MonsterVoxProductions #Podcast

Dive into Rustic Shakespeare on the Electric Secrets variety podcast from MonsterVox Productions, where host Scott Smith unpacks Lord Capulet’s emotional rollercoaster in Romeo and Juliet.

In this episode, "Papa Cap Prep Part 2: The Long Emotional Slog," Scott continues his deep dive into Act 3, Scene 5, focusing on Capulet’s explosive tirade as he confronts Juliet’s refusal to marry Paris.

With a modern twist, Capulet’s erratic behavior fueled by alcohol and sleeping pills, Scott shares how he brought nuance to this pivotal scene. He also explores the dynamics of directing lines to Lady Capulet and the Nurse, not just Juliet, to enrich the performance.

Perfect for actors, directors, and Shakespeare enthusiasts, this episode offers practical insights into avoiding performance traps and embracing emotional depth.

Visit Folger.edu for study resources, and email [email protected] with your Bard-related questions!

Three Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• Avoid the Rage Trap: Learn why screaming through Capulet’s tirade is ineffective and how to use emotional dynamics to create a compelling performance.

• Diversify Delivery: Discover how directing lines to multiple characters (Juliet, Lady Capulet, Nurse) adds variety and depth to the scene.

• Incorporate Modern Context: Understand how adding modern elements, like medication or alcohol, can enhance Capulet’s erratic character in a contemporary setting.

About Scott Smith

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.

SPECIAL NOTE: The audio quality of this episode is below our company standards and is the result of poorly tested equipment. But the conversation that takes place was too honest to shelve and too authentic to re-record. So, we decided to share it, buzzy VO and all. We promise to get ahead of any sound issues for subsequent episodes. --Scott

Discussions Drive Creativity

Dive into the premiere episode of Struck To The Soul, a captivating segment of MonsterVox Productions' Electric Secrets variety podcast, hosted by Scott Smith. In this unfiltered chat, Scott sits down with local media guru and fellow artist Abbey Kanellakis at the lively Bucyrus Tap House to explore the moments that ignite artistic inspiration. From the thunderous drums of Led Zeppelin’s IV to the raw energy of Janis Joplin, Scott and Abbey unravel how music’s unique sounds shape their creative souls.

Despite some quirky audio (think FBI wiretap vibes!), the conversation is electric, touching on the timelessness of classic rock, the pitfalls of overproduced music, and the courage to embrace your distinct voice in a commercial world. Perfect for artists, musicians, and anyone seeking creative fuel, this episode is a heartfelt ode to the moments that strike deep and stay forever. Tune in for an authentic, soul-stirring discussion that’ll inspire you to reconnect with your own artistic spark.

The Legal Stuff

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Stuff To Do, Esther's Excursions, Practical Yoga, & The Cruelest Cookie

Get ready for a wild ride at the Albatros Cafe, part of the Electric Secrets variety podcast!

This episode, hosted by the ever-humorous Marty Merman at the Albatross Cafe, delivers a mix of cringe-worthy tasks, local adventures, and quirky wellness routines.

In Marty’s segment, “Stuff To Do,” he tackles a long-overdue doctor’s order with a “Colo Bowl” kit, leading to hilariously awkward moments as he navigates the instructions with zero chill. Meanwhile, Marty’s mom, Esther, hits the streets of Schleboygan, New Jersey, for “Esther’s Excursions,” where she critiques a new historical mural with savage wit, questioning everything from wheat fields to a suspiciously placed “sex worker” figure. Rounding it out, Agnes brings the chaos with her “Practical Yoga Routine,” turning a beginner’s lesson into a sweaty, sassy spectacle involving cat-cow meows and a tree pose takedown. Plus, a bizarre ad from Marty’s German cousin Helmut plugs his documentary, The Cruelest Cookie, exposing the dark underbelly of Girl Scout cookie sales. Expect laughs, absurdity, and a touch of Schleboygan charm in this unmissable episode!

This episode is presented by MonsterVox Productions. All persons in this podcast are fictional, and resemblance to any person living or dead, is purely coincidental and not intended by the creator.

About Scott

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.

Monster Vox Productions LLC.