Empowered Artist Collective Podcast - for actors, singers, dancers, writers, creators and performers

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Allegra Edwards who shares insights into her life as an actress, mother, wife, and sister. They unpack Allegra’s journey with landing the series regular, Ingrid, in the Amazon Prime series "Upload" starting from her unique initial audition and highlighting the challenges and growth she experienced throughout the three seasons, especially while maintaining positivity amid the uncertainties of the entertainment industry. They get into having perspective, navigating imposter syndrome & insecurities, the importance of cultivating trust, advocating for oneself, and owning one’s process.

About Allegra: Allegra Edwards is an actress and appears as Ingrid on the Prime Video sci-fi comedy "Upload." (All three 1 seasons now streaming!) Other credits include Briarpatch, Sandy Wexler, New Girl, Modern Family, Orange is the New Black, The Mindy Project, Friends From College, Alternatino, and others. Allegra has a background in theatre and received her MFA in acting from A.C.T in San Francisco, as well as her BA in Theatre and Television from Pepperdine University. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband Clayton, and her son Howdy.

Allegra's IG: @allegra_edwards

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In this episode, Jennifer talks to Tania Bhattacharyya who delves into the transformative power & untapped potential of using LinkedIn for creative individuals and artists. She dispels the notion that LinkedIn is a corporate and sterile platform by sharing her journey of using the platform to build a human-driven space. They discuss the power of storytelling to build trust and foster relationships, provide practical insights on optimizing one’s profile, and emphasize the importance of showcasing authenticity and using the platform as a tool for community building. They also reflect on the vision of creating spaces where everyone belongs to explore the limitless possibilities of community building without rules or competition.

About Tania: Tania is the founder of Lumos Marketing, a thought leadership consultancy for social impact entrepreneurs ready to stand out as they stand up for their mission. She offers personal brand messaging strategy for LinkedIn along with coaching to dismantle imposter thoughts. She also hosts the podcast The Campfire Circle which explores the idea of replacing the ‘boardroom table’ as the ultimate space of leadership with a campfire circle: a place to share our stories, build inclusive community, and spark visionary ideas.

Tania’s IG: @taniabhat

Tania’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tania-bhattacharyya

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In this podcast episode, Jennifer chats with Kel Haney all about fundraising. Kel shares what led her from being a theater director in NYC to becoming a fundraising coach, consultant, and trainer. She gives insights on transforming the often uncomfortable process of fundraising into an opportunity for building meaningful relationships, empasizing that anyone can fundraise successfully, even without a background in sales or fundraising, by passionately sharing what they love. Kel offers tools on navigating the complexities of fundraising, including handling rejection, building genuine connections, leading from abundance and finding a comfortable stretch, and embracing the power of storytelling. They discuss the importance of leading from vulnerability, curiosity, passion, and confidence. 

About Kel: Kel Haney is a Maine & NYC-based fundraising coach, consultant, & trainer. Before turning to fundraising full-time, she spent 20 years as a theater director and her fundraising methodology is based on how she led a rehearsal room: focusing on what makes each of us unique and engaging. She’s personally made over 20,000 fundraising "asks" and trained non-profit orgs to raise over $15M (primarily in donations under $2K), which inspired her 5-Minute Fundraising Ask Training Program. Kel’s work boils down to “Taking the Ick out of the Ask”: she’s passionate about shifting fundraising conversations away from transactional

encounters and toward relationship-building opportunities. Kel’s worked with such organizations as: Berkshire Theatre Group, The Glimmerglass Festival, MCC Theatre, Signature Theatre, Manhattan Theatre Club, New York Theatre Workshop, Marin Theatre Company, BroadwayUnlocked, American Composers Forum, and RIP Medical Debt.

Kel’s IG: @kelhaney

Kel’s LInkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kel-haney

Download “8 Phrases NOT to use in Fundraising" Guide: www.kelhaney.com/freebie-8-phrases

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In this episode, Jennifer talks to casting director Erica Jensen who shares her personal journey of getting her MFA in Acting to finding her true calling in casting. They discuss the evolving landscape of auditions in this “post-pandemic” world, the technical aspects of self-tapes, and navigating one’s social media presence. They also speak about the significance of cultivating relationships, the joy of discovering and launching careers, and also unpack deeper intricacies of casting. 

About Erica: Erica Jensen is a casting director at and co-owner of Calleri Jensen Davis. Her 20-year-plus career with partners James Calleri and Paul Davis spans film, television, regional, off-Broadway and Broadway theater. Casting credits include shows for Actors Theater of Louisville, Classic Stage Company, Rattlestick Theater, City Theater, McCarter Theatre, People’s Light and Theatre, Hartford Stage, LaJolla Playhouse, Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, and The Flea Theater. B’way credits include Thoughts of A Colored Man, For Colored Girls (2022), Topdog/Underdog and The Piano Lesson, Past B’way credits: Fool For Love, Hughie, A Raisin In The Sun, Of Mice and Men, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. TV credits include Queens, Love Life, Dickinson, Lipstick Jungle, and The Path. In addition to casting, Erica is the Program Director of and Professor of Practice at the Tepper Semester, a study abroad professional theater program in New York City. She’s the co-founder of She-Collective with partner and talent manager, Dani Super. And she’s a proud and anxious mom to an awesome 11-year-old.

Erica’s IG: @ericamjensen

Erica’s Email: [email protected]

Erica’s Websites: www.she-collective.com, www.callerijensendavis.com

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In this episode, Jennifer talks to Christina Pumariega all about the tangible aspects of TV writing, pilots, and storytelling. Puma shares what inspired her to write her first pilot, how she ended up landing a writer’s room gig, and the importance of community. They delve into the intricacies of structure - from creating compelling loglines to storyengines to ABC breakdowns to character descriptions. They discuss the art of breaking story, carding, the challenges of both starting and ending a script, and the messy process of writing. Plus they share the value of persistence & discipline,   seeking feedback & mentorship, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

About Christina: Christina Pumariega acts and writes. Often simultaneously. She is the author of VOS! (Crossing Borders Festival at Two River Theater), Joan Dark (DCPA Colorado New Play Summit, Jane Chambers Prize runner-up, O’Neill NPC finalist), Lei Chiede/She Asks (O’Neill NPC finalist) and Her Math Play (EST/Sloan Foundation in collaboration with Hartford Stage Company, BAPF finalist). Her plays have been developed at Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater, the New Harmony Project, the Lark, New Georges, Hartford Stage Company and Ammunition Theatre Company. She is currently under commission by Denver Center for the Performing Arts and Two River Theater. TV writing credits include “Turner & Hooch” (Disney+) and “Bluff City Law” (NBC). Acting on and Off-Broadway and in television and film, Pumariega has cross examined Coach Taylor, made out with the Fly and set a Cuban pharmacy ablaze in a corset. She’s been an Expert Contributor to BackStage Magazine and has taught at Yale, NYU, Pace and other institutions. Pumariega created and leads the collective Más Páginas: both a writers’ group dedicated to nurturing diverse voices; and playwriting and screenwriting classes held entirely online. Born and raised all over the south, her father is Cuban, her mother is Italian-American. MFA Acting, NYU.

Christina’s IG: @christinapumariega

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

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In this week’s episode, Jennifer chats with Emily Grace to talk about helping actors write their dream roles. Emily shares the highs and lows of her artistic endeavors, exploring the delicate balance between running a business and nurturing one's artistic soul, touching on themes of delegation, overcoming doubt, and the importance of embracing the messy creative process. They discuss the art of brevity, tools to distill narratives, and giving oneself permission to pause in the relentless pursuit of both business and artistic endeavors. Emily also opens up about an impactful health journey and the profound power of storytelling as a means for processing.

About Emily: Emily Grace is a career coach and Sundance award-winning actress who helps actors write and produce the role only they can play, so they never have to wait for permission to do what they love.

Emily’s IG: @theonlyemilygrace 

Emily’s Website: www.writeyourdreamrole.com

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In this episode, Jennifer talks to EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) consultant, Kira Troilo. Kira highlights the importance of an "equity-first" approach in the DEI framework, emphasizing the need to create systems that support and value diversity and inclusion in the arts. They unpack the various aspects of EDI, the challenges faced in theater companies, and the need to address implicit biases and make space for difficult conversations to begin building bridges and fostering forgiveness in a polarized culture. They offer practical insights and tools on how to implement EDI practices -- starting from show selection to casting to rehearsals, etc., share the necessity for listening, and using “and” to hold multiple truths simultaneously. Plus they discuss the necessity for open & constructive conversations in order to drive meaningful change in theater, the arts, and the world.

About Kira: Kira Troilo is a Boston-based creative and the founder & CEO of Art & Soul Consulting -- a new company that offers Equity, Diversity & Inclusion consulting services uniquely tailored to work in theater and the arts. Kira has provided unique, specialized support for plays and musicals across the nation, including assisting in the creation of the recent world premiere of "Summer Stock: The Musical" at Goodspeed Opera House, starring Corbin Bleu. Kira's fully-tailored workshops and development sessions aim to help arts organizations and educators engage in actionable, relevant and sustainable EDI work. Her groundbreaking work in EDI consulting was recently featured in American Theater Magazine. Kira takes an empathetic approach to her work and believes that curiosity and compassion are the keys to growth, change and genuine connection.

Kira’s IG: @kiratroilo

Kira’s Website: www.artandsoulconsulting.com

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In this episode, Jennifer brings back Joanna Carpenter to the podcast. She shares her journey of cultivating self-trust and how it has transformed her life, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging past mistakes as a path to growth and personal liberation. They unpack the lens of curiosity and self-acceptance as a way to navigate the complexities of life and find possibility in the gray areas. Plus, they explore the connection between self-trust and the body, learning how to prioritze oneself, and embracing stillness as a source of strength. 

About Joanna: Joanna is the founder of 86 the Barrier, a language learning program for Spanish-speaking asylum seekers and hospitality workers, the market consultant for woman-owned Irish whiskey brand J.J. Corry, and a swing in Sweeney Todd on Broadway.

Joanna’s IG: @thejoannac

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In this episode, Jennifer talks to Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, Orit Krug, about the transformative power of dance movement therapy. Orit shares how it’s possible to heal trauma by tuning into sensations and being curious about its origins in order to better move through emotions and connect more deeply with oneself and interpersonally. They discuss the power of integrating mind and body, how trauma is stored a  s fragments of sensation in the body, and the way this approach can unlock hidden memories.They talk about the profound impact of non-verbal communication, how this form of therapy is accessible even for those who may not consider themselves dancers, and the importance of understanding one's own window of tolerance. They offer practical tools to tune inward, emphasizing setting intentions and using movement as a form of self-expression and self-care. 

About Orit: Orit Krug is an award-winning Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist. Orit specializes in helping individuals & couples heal from past trauma and enjoy healthy lasting relationships using her unique approach with dance therapy. For over 13 years, Orit has transformed the lives of more than 5,000 clients from 12 different countries. Her online programs & retreats have helped thousands break free from their unhealthy relationship cycles and experience positive transformations in their love lives. Orit is the founder of the “Mind Your Body” podcast and has been featured in DailyOM, ThriveGlobal, Authority Magazine, as well as quoted in SELF & INSIDER. She currently lives in the suburbs of NYC with her loving husband and their son.

Orit’s IGs: @orit.krug

Orit’s Website: www.oritkrug.com

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In this episode, Jennifer chats with singer, actress, and activist, Malynda Hale. Her unwavering faith and spirituality guide her in speaking out for marginalized groups with earnestness, vulnerability, and kindness. As such, they talk about the challenges of engaging in difficult conversations in today's fast-paced and divided world, especially on social media. They share insights on giving oneself permission to start and speak out even in the face of adversity. They also explore the importance of learning directly from others lived experiences in order to foster understanding and create change. Plus they emphasize the value of kindness, empathy, and active listening in addressing social issues and breaking down barriers.  

About Malynda: Malynda Hale was born and raised in sunny Santa Barbara, California where she began singing at the age of 5. She won “Best Female Vocalist” at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, “Best Pop Music Video” at the Indie Music Channel Awards, and “Pop Song of the Year” at The Josie Music Awards. She has been a headliner for the NAMM show, has opened for artists such as Tyrone Wells, Ernie Halter, Levi Kreis, OTOWN and Smokey Robinson and sung background for Melissa Manchester, Terron Brooks and Foreigner. Pre-covid she was touring the world as a guest entertainer on cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Regent, and Celebrity. As an actress she has appeared in stage productions of Once of This Island, Dreamgirls, and Bye Bye Birdie as well as numerous national commercials, independent films and the Lifetime TV Network movie ” A Hunt for Truth” alongside Willa Ford. Most recently she starred in a feature film alongside Loretta Divine and Amy Madigan and a short film with Danielle Beckman and Bobby Moynihan. She currently hosts her own podcast called #WeNeedToTalk that focuses on powerful one-on-one conversations. #WeNeedtoTalk drives home the message that “Everything begins with a conversation.” Because of her love for telling people’s stories, in January 2021 she created the Black Voices Heard Project, an ongoing video and photo series that seeks to amplify the experiences of Black Americans. Through this project, it is her hope that the negative perceptions of the Black community will be dismantled and the door will open for more understanding and empathy. Malynda uses her voice through her music and social media presence as an educating activist to effect change within social justice, female empowerment, LGBTQ+ rights, veganism, the Black Lives Matter movement, Antisemitism and Progressive Christianity. Malynda has partnered with many organizations such as ACE For Change, Vocal Media, and Yahoo to spread messaging on voting rights, climate change and world hunger and has been a featured commentator on CNN, ABC News Live & Good Morning America. She currently serves as a curriculum and development consultant for ROC Era, a nonprofit committed to providing arts and mentorship programs to inner city youth,  she is on the board for the Religions Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and for The New Evangelicals Non Profit and is an assistant producer at the Garry Marshall Theatre.

She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, daughter, and dog. 

Malynda’s IGs: @malyndahale

Malynda’s Website: www.malyndahale.com

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