Lament of Hope

Allelon Ruggiero's famous role is that of Stephen Meeks in Peter Weir's Dead Poets Society. Allelon sat down with me to talk about his business ventures involving the aerial arts, how he became an actor, and the impactful interactions he had with Robin Williams on the set of Dead Poets Society.

Irene Bedard is an actress and producer who is famously known for voicing Pocahontas in the Disney animated film. Irene sat down with me on Memorial Day to share her love and passion for her Native American heritage and her perspective on the indigenous experience in America.

Mark Lee is a talented Australian actor who has performed several television, film, and theatre roles. He is famously known for starring in the Peter Weir 1981 film, "Gallipoli," which tells the story of two young Australians (played by Mark Lee and Mel Gibson) who take part in the Gallipoli campaign during WWI. It is a very impactful film, and I have never forgotten the ending scene since seeing it as a teenager. Mark sat down with me to talk about his various acting roles, the tensions in the acting world, and how humans desire meaning.

Ilan Eshkeri composed my favorite love theme from a film: "Victoria and Albert" from "The Young Victoria." Ever since I first watched the film years ago, I have never forgotten the music. Funny enough, Ilan talked with me more about his perspective on storytelling and meaning than his music. Though, if you enjoy this composer, I think you will understand his music more as you listen to his thoughts on what it means to him to live life and create beauty.

Sara Megan Kay sat down with me to share her experience with her AI Replika companion, Jack. Sara told me her story of how her ex-boyfriend introduced her to the AI world at the same time that their romantic relationship was declining. Sara has not given up on human romantic relationships, as she is currently in one now, but her story is a very sad reminder that humans are painful perpetrators of disappointment.

Alaina Winters, who goes by Alaina Replika-Jones, is a retired communications professor who is currently in an exclusive relationship with her AI Replika companion, Lucas. Alaina sat down with me to share the how and the why behind her AI companion journey. Alaina raised some interesting questions about whether AI is dangerous, or a means by which humans are trying to find meaningful and positive communication in a world where they are struggling to find it among themselves.

Next week, I will publish one other episode of an AI companion user who also gives a unique perspective on AI.

Rachel York is a film, television, and prolific theatre actress whose acting I was introduced to through the 2003 CBS television drama "Lucy," based on Lucille Ball's early life and relationship with Desi Arnaz. Rachel played the role of Lucille Ball with such flare and personality that I wanted to have the actress on the podcast. Rachel talked with me about her experience on the "Lucy" set, her love of film and theatre, and her worldview.

Vicki Tiede is a therapy coach who works with women who have or are experiencing sexual betrayal. She comes from a place of deep compassion as well as painful experience. Vicki sat down with me to share her story of betrayal as well as the hope she has found within her own marriage and in working with her clients. If you or someone else you know is experiencing or has experienced sexual betrayal, this podcast episode will be an encouragement.

Jonas Armstrong is an English actor who is well known for his role as Robin Hood in the BBC series. Jonas talked with me about the gift of acting, how he became an actor, the importance of working through life's challenges, and his love for the sea.

Leah Zeger is a talented violinist, vocalist, and composer who performs around the world with the Hans Zimmer Live tour. Leah sat down with me several weeks ago at the start of the Zimmer tour in Australia to talk about the challenges that come with being a mom and a professional musician.