In the Podlight

Jesse James Keitel and Candido Cornejo Jr, actor/writer and casting director respectively, speak to advocacy, intentional casting, and their trans-identity & experiences navigating the casting process and on set in a climate that’s healthy, safe and creative both as artists and for artists.

Read more about Jesse and Candido here.

Takeaways

• Intentional casting is crucial for authentic representation.
• Trans creatives face unique challenges in Hollywood.
• Advocacy can be a natural byproduct of being oneself.
• Breaking stereotypes is essential for diverse storytelling.
• The industry often reduces trans identities to tokenism.
• Education on trans issues is still necessary in the industry.
• Personal experiences shape professional journeys in the arts.
• Representation must go beyond visibility to include authenticity.
• Trans stories should be told by trans individuals.
• Navigating identity in the workplace requires courage and clarity. We need time, we need money, we need resources.
• There is a space for you that you can be an actor.
• Intentional casting can ease emotional burdens.
• Being a trans woman has been the biggest gift to my career.
• We need to start questioning what is your intention with this?
• We need more training and development opportunities.
• It's important to remember what makes us happy.
• Acting is so fun, but I absolutely hate Hollywood.
• The duality of being different can be both a gift and a burden.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Trans Creatives in Hollywood

02:06 - Intentional Casting and Authentic Representation

06:14 - Navigating Identity and Career Challenges

10:04 - The Role of Advocacy in the Arts

14:04 - Breaking Stereotypes in Casting

17:54 - Educating the Industry on Trans Representation

21:48 - Personal Experiences and Professional Challenges

28:12 - The Challenge of Finding Talent

31:03 - Encouraging Diversity in Acting

34:35 - The Burden of Representation

37:54 - Intentional Casting and Its Importance

40:35 - Dreams and Aspirations in the Industry

45:46 - The Duality of Being Different

50:00 - Finding Joy in the Journey

Connect with Candido on Instagram

Connect with Jesse on Instagram

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Casting Executive and Producer Kim Williams strives to elevate the industry, making a significant impact both on-screen and behind the scenes. Kim discusses how her degree in sociology informs her career, particularly in understanding the dynamics of human behavior, collaboration, and social networks. She emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and shares her passion for mentoring the next generation of artists.

Read more about Kim here.

Takeaways

• Kim Williams emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling.
• She believes in saying yes to opportunities to build a career.
• Navigating personalities in collaboration is crucial for success.
• Understanding one's identity helps in making informed decisions.
• Casting is about bringing characters to life, not just matching actors to roles.
• Diversity and representation are central to her casting philosophy.
• Kim advocates for authenticity in casting decisions.
• She finds talent in various aspects of her life, not just auditions.
• The casting director's role is vital in shaping narratives.
• Mentorship and legacy are important to her as she guides others.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Kim Williams and Her Journey

03:06 - The Role of a Casting Director

05:51 - Navigating Opportunities and Scarcity Mindset

09:00 - Instincts in Project Selection

11:51 - Collaboration and Navigating Personalities

15:06 - The Impact of Storytelling on Audiences

17:53 - Authenticity and Representation in Casting

21:06 - Finding Talent and the 'It' Factor

23:53 - The Importance of Casting in Film

27:08 - Mentorship and Legacy in the Industry

30:03 - Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

32:48 - Future Goals and Aspirations

36:03 - Lightning Round and Personal Insights

Connect with Kim on Instagram

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Sammi Cannold and Liam Pearce, director and actor respectively, from Broadway's award winning How To Dance in Ohio discuss the impact of the show in de-stigmatizing neurodiversity, accessibility and accommodations on our sets, stages, and community, how the casting process and production embodied equal parts art and activism, and the meaning of the key motto in the disability and autistic communities “nothing about us without us.” 

Read more about Sammi and Liam here.

Takeaways

• The importance of authentic representation in theater.
• Creating a role as an autistic actor is groundbreaking.
• The journey of How to Dance in Ohio is deeply personal.
• Inclusivity in casting leads to a richer creative process.
• The show aims to change perceptions of autism in society.
• Accessibility for audiences is crucial for engagement.
• The collaborative nature of the production was unique.
• Neurodiversity should be embraced in all creative spaces.
• The mission of the show is to foster understanding.
• Future productions should continue the conversation about autism.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to In the Podlight

01:00 - The Journey of How to Dance in Ohio

06:05 - Casting and Production Process

09:50 - Identity and Representation in Theater

15:08 - Creating an Inclusive Environment

19:54 - Audience Accessibility and Engagement

24:51 - Future Aspirations and Impact of the Show

30:07 - Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Connect with Sammi on Instagram

Connect with Liam on Instagram

Check out How To Dance in Ohio on their website

Check out &Juliet on their website

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director of CAPE, shares how the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment is fostering collaboration among diverse organizations, creating a supportive network within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, coalition-building, and amplifying voices and driving systemic change on stage and in front of and behind the camera.

Read more about Michelle here.

Takeaways

• CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991.
• Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers.
• The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices.
• Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories.
• The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional.
• Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking.
• CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals.
• Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other.
• The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices.
• Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara

02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs

04:50 Impact of Representation in Media

08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement

12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE

15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation

19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices

22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Connect with Michelle on Instagram

Connect with CAPE on Instagram

Check out CAPE on their website

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Intimacy Professionals Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard, open a window to the role of intimacy directors, choreographers and educators on stage and screen. We discuss navigating the complexities of power dynamics, and their commitment to creating safe, empowering spaces where all voices are respected and where the stories of underrepresented communities are told with integrity and care on stage and screen.

Read more about Raja & Greg here.

Takeaways

• Intimacy professionals advocate for ethical representation in performance.
• Creating a consent-based environment is crucial for safety.
• Cultural competency is essential in intimacy work.
• The role of intimacy professionals is evolving in the industry.
• Comfort and discomfort are inherent in storytelling.
• Intimacy work requires understanding power dynamics.
• Education in intimacy practices is vital for future generations.
• Resistance to intimacy professionals often stems from misunderstanding their role.
• The intimacy field must address barriers to entry for diverse voices.
• Advocacy for vulnerable individuals in performance spaces is essential.
• Regional theaters are crucial for developing new works and voices.
• Casting in regional theater involves a different set of challenges compared to film and TV.
• The pandemic has significantly impacted the economics of regional theater.
• Advocating for representation in casting is an ongoing effort.
• Success in the arts is not a binary of pass or fail.
• Actors can thrive outside of major cities like New York and LA.
• Building relationships in the industry is key to long-term success.
• Personal values should align with professional goals in the arts.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Intimacy Professionals

02:36 - Understanding the Role of Intimacy Professionals

06:50 - Creating Safe Spaces in Performance

10:40 - Navigating Comfort and Discomfort in Storytelling

15:41 Cultural Competency in Intimacy Work

19:57 - The Intersection of Identity and Intimacy

26:33 - Progress and Challenges in the Field

32:42 - The Future of Intimacy Work

36:22 - Addressing Resistance and Legitimacy

40:34 - The Role of Power Dynamics

48:37 - Who Advocates for Intimacy Professionals?

54:21 - Conclusion and Future Directions

Connect with Raja on Instagram

Connect with Greg on Instagram

Check out The Den Theatre in Chicago on their website

Check out Actor’s Express Theatre in Atlanta on their website

Check out Nothing Without A Theatre in Chicago on their website

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Aurin Squire, producer, playwright and screenwriter speaks with us about the importance of representation in the Writers Room and perspectives in storytelling at this pivotal moment in the industry
 

Read more about Aurin here.

Takeaways:

• Aurin Squire emphasizes the importance of writing from personal experience and perspective.
• The writer's room is a collaborative and sacred space for creativity.
• The need for representation in the industry extends beyond actors to all behind-the-scenes roles.
• Aurin advocates for access to storytelling across different identities.
• He believes in the power of diverse voices to enrich storytelling.
• Aurin's future projects aim to explore multicultural backgrounds and science fiction.
• He credits his background in sports for developing self-motivation and discipline.
• Self-care practices like meditation help him navigate the creative process.
• Aurin values the importance of community and collaboration in the arts.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Aurin Squire

00:49 - The Journey from Journalism to Playwriting

04:02 - Exploring Multicultural Perspectives in Writing

07:58 - The Dynamics of a Writer's Room

11:49 - Understanding Production Deals and Pods

18:04 - The Importance of Representation Behind the Camera

21:00 - Navigating Identity in Storytelling

26:04 - Future Aspirations and Storytelling Goals

29:51 - The Influence of Sports on Creative Discipline

34:13 - Self-Care Practices for Creatives

36:11 - Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Connect with Aurin on Instagram

Check out A Wonderful World the Louis Armstrong Story Musical on their website and on Instagram

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

As Vice President, Health & Human Services for Musicares, Theresa Wolters leads on executing and advancing the vision and direction of all mission-based programs and services for MusiCares. Her passion for humanitarian services runs deep with a global journey that brings her to this dynamic conversation covering the impact Musicares has in serving our vast community of music professionals, “helping the humans behind music because music gives so much to the world".

Learn more about Theresa here.

Takeaways:

• MusiCares provided nearly $36 million in relief during the pandemic.
• Artists play a crucial role in advocating for social justice.
• There is a significant stigma around substance use in the music industry.
• Every industry should prioritize the well-being of its people.
• Inclusivity is a core value for MusiCares.
• The Day That MusiCares fosters community connection and service.
• Theresa feels fulfilled in her personal and professional life.
• Americans are incredibly philanthropic and generous.
• Confidentiality and compassion are essential in helping those in need.
• The next generation of women leaders inspires Theresa.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to MusiCares and Theresa Wolters

02:50 Theresa's Background and Humanitarian Work

06:09 The Role of MusiCares During the Pandemic

08:55 Challenges in the Music Industry

12:11 Success Metrics and Community Engagement

15:03 Philanthropy and Fundraising Strategies

18:03 Inclusivity and Collaboration in MusiCares

20:58 The Day That MusiCares

23:48 Inspiration and Future Goals

26:56 Final Thoughts and Lightning Round

Connect with MusiCares on Instagram

Check out the MusiCares on their website

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Casting Directors Kim Montelibano Heil and Victor Vazquez talk with us about regional casting, the economics and equity of theatre post-pandemic, and thriving as an actor and artist in regional markets.

Read more about Kim & Victor here.

Takeaways

• Regional theaters are crucial for developing new works and voices.
• Casting in regional theater involves a different set of challenges compared to film and TV.
• The pandemic has significantly impacted the economics of regional theater.
• Advocating for representation in casting is an ongoing effort.
• Success in the arts is not a binary of pass or fail.
• Actors can thrive outside of major cities like New York and LA.
• Building relationships in the industry is key to long-term success.
• Personal values should align with professional goals in the arts.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Sound Bites

• "Regional theaters are vital incubators for new works."
• "Success is not about passing or failing."
• "You can live anywhere and participate in TV and film."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Regional Theater and Its Importance

03:02 The Role of Regional Theaters in American Canon

05:47 Casting in Regional Theater vs. Film and TV

08:53 Challenges of Casting and Audience Expectations

12:00 Economic Impact of the Pandemic on Regional Theater

15:09 Navigating Casting Expenses and Equity

17:51 Advocating for Representation in Casting

21:05 Success and Failure in the Arts

23:51 Finding Equitable Opportunities in Different Regions

27:06 The Journey of an Actor in Today's Landscape

29:50 Personal Values and Professional Life in the Arts

33:02 The Importance of Community and Relationships

35:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Artists

Connect with Kim on Instagram

Connect with Victor on Instagram

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Broadway actress & producer, LaChanze talks with us about the important work of Black Theatre United and The New Deal, her own journey as an actress and what inspired her to become a producer and soon-to-be director, changing the face of professional theatre.

Read more about LaChanze here.

Keywords: Broadway, Black Theater United, inclusivity, diversity, representation, producing, directing, playwriting, Alice Childress, love, connection, vision

Takeaways:

• LaChanze is the president of Black Theater United, a creative collective aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusivity in Broadway for black performers and artists.
• She is committed to increasing and diversifying audiences in the theater, and she believes that representation is crucial in both on-stage and off-stage roles.
• LaChanze is passionate about bringing the work of overlooked artists, such as Alice Childress, to the forefront and giving young artists the opportunity to have their voices heard.
• She has launched her own production company, LaChanze Productions, to have more control over the creative process and to support and develop new talent.
• LaChanze emphasizes the importance of love, connection, and vision in personal and professional life, and she encourages young artists to pursue their passions and be the change they want to see.

Sound Bites:

• "I'm an advocate for black rights and black representation."
• "Being a woman of a certain age, being a black woman in my midlife who has had this experience, it does come with wisdom."
• "I needed to launch LaChanze Productions because I needed more control."

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to In the Podlight and Guest LaChanze

06:05 - Discovering the Need for Diversity and Inclusion in the Entertainment Industry

13:05 - The New Deal: Reforming the Industry for Equity and Inclusion

17:26 - Navigating Microaggressions and Ageism in the Entertainment Industry

21:29 - LaChanze Productions: Empowering Underrepresented Artists

27:21 - The Legacy of Alice Childress: Bringing Overlooked Artists to the Forefront

32:05 - Taking Control: Launching LaChanze Productions

37:42 - The Importance of Love and Resilience in LaChanze's Life

41:57 - Closing Remarks and Lightning Round

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

As Chief Labor Policy Officer and New York Local Executive Director of SAG-AFTRA, Rebecca Damon talks with us about the importance of sister unions, the impact of artificial intelligence on the entertainment industry, and the need for actors to stay informed, get involved, and take control of their careers.

Read more about Rebecca here.

Keywords: Rebecca Damon, SAG-AFTRA, labor rights, sister unions, artificial intelligence, entertainment industry, actors, acting, actor life, career, Broadway, inclusivity, diversity, representation

Takeaways:

• The SAG-AFTRA merger was a multi-year process that aimed to unite two unions representing actors and artists for the same work.
• The power of unions working together is crucial in achieving success and prosperity for their members.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) has a significant impact on the entertainment industry, and it is important to establish guardrails and protections for performers.
• Non-union actors should be cautious about signing contracts that may have conflicts or perpetuity clauses, and they should stay informed about industry developments and resources.
• Taking a leap and getting involved in union activities can be rewarding and empowering for actors.

Sound Bites:

• "The successful efforts in merging SAG and AFTRA back in 2012 were huge."
• "The unions and the industry worked closely together during the pandemic to ensure a safe return to work."
• "AI's impact on creative industries is a larger existential issue for everyone."

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Background of Rebecca Damon

07:12 - The SAG-AFTRA Merger

12:01 - The Power of Sister Unions

17:42 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Performers

27:40 - Advice for Pre-Union Actors

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.