Passion to Power

Keywords

• mental health, empowerment, community, voice, trauma, music industry, creativity, authenticity, self-discovery, cultural identity

Live EVENT at THE ASTER 11/13/2025

Host; TONI MENDOZA-GRATITUDE!

Takeaways

• Dr. Paul shares his journey from law to therapy.
• Denise: The Lower East Side shaped cultural identities and experiences.
• Finding one's voice is crucial for empowerment.
• Donna: Power dynamics in the music industry can be exploitative.
• Trauma can be addressed through voice and expression.
• Community and connection are vital for personal growth.
• Self-understanding is key to navigating power struggles.
• Intentionality in creative spaces fosters collaboration.
• Personal stories can inspire and uplift others.
• Vulnerability and authenticity are essential for connection.

Titles

• Empowering Voices: Navigating Identity and Trauma
• The Journey of Self-Discovery in Creative Spaces

SEE the Biographies of our Panelists

Donna Ross-Jones, CEO of Transition Music Corp. https://transitionmusic.com/

Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, https://draysonmews.com/dr-paul/

Denise Woods, #speak it clearly https://www.speakitclearly.com/

and get their books ! THE POWER OF VOICE by Denise Woods

and FRAGILE POWER; Why Having Everything is Never Enough

and READ the Blogs, Posts and Educational Articles by Donna Ross-Jones on Autism, the inequities in the music industry and how to support artists and ownership of their music rights and earnings.

Welcome to the Creative Club

 Pia Mailhot Leichter

Sound Bites

• "Life is a creative process."
• "Creativity is collaboration."
• "Creativity is a way of being."

• the realm of infinite possibility and a kick in Pia’s creative peach

Summary

• In this engaging conversation, Pia Mailhot Leichter shares her journey of creativity, exploring the themes of self-discovery, the impact of travel, and the importance of embracing uncertainty. She discusses her book, which aims to redefine creativity and inspire others to recognize their innate creative potential. Pia emphasizes that creativity is not limited to artistic expression but is a fundamental aspect of being human. The discussion also touches on the challenges of commercial creativity and the significance of co-creation in building a supportive community for artists.

Keywords

creativity, personal growth, commercial art, self-discovery, travel, uncertainty, artistic expression, book launch, coaching

Takeaways

• Creativity is a birthright for all humans.
• The definition of creativity should be expanded beyond artistic expression.
• Everyone is in the process of creating their lives.
• Life is a creative process, and we should embrace our unique expressions.
• Traveling can enhance creativity by exposing us to new experiences.
• Building a capacity to be in uncertainty is crucial for creativity.
• Entrepreneurship can be an exercise in embracing the unknown.
• Education can provide freedom and options, but it's not the only path to growth.
• Reflecting on past experiences can reveal evidence of our creative journey.
• Co-creation and community are essential for nurturing creativity.

• Get a copy of her book: On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Creative-Club-Biggest-Project/dp/B0DPJ8L4NM/ref=sr_1_1On Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/welcome-to-the-creative-club-make-life-your-biggest-art-project-pia-mailhot-leichter/22087658

Follow Your Yellow Brick Road to Success….
Desmond Richardson: (Ballet) Pointe of View 

What is your INTENTION?

WHY ARE YOU DOING WHAT YOU DO?

He says to his dancers be “Inside of the Moment.”

• He’s worked with Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna
• He’s trained and /or danced alongside the greats: Alvin Ailey, William Forsythe, Sylvie Guillem, Sarita Allen, Carmen de Lavallade, Maurice Béjart, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Diana Vishneva

Keywords

dance, ballet, artistry, mentorship, performance, intention, Complexions, dance education, global dance, cultural impact

Summary

In this conversation, Michelle Zeitlin and Desmond Richardson explore the intricate world of dance, focusing on the importance of intention, artistry, and mentorship. They discuss the daily life of a ballet company, the significance of authenticity in performance, and the evolution of dance education. The dialogue also highlights the creation of Complexions, a dance company that fuses various styles, and the impact of iconic artists on their journeys. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for dancers to connect with their audience and the cultural relevance of dance in today's society.

Takeaways

• The journey of a dancer is about intention and authenticity.
• Daily life in a ballet company involves nurturing young artists.
• Artistry in dance requires more than just technical skill.
• Complexions represents a fusion of diverse dance styles.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping a dancer's career.
• The importance of being present in the moment during performance.
• Dancers must understand their unique voice and perspective.
• Dance education is evolving to include a broader range of styles.
• The global landscape of dance is rich and diverse.
• Cultural impact of dance is significant and should be celebrated.

Titles

• Passion and Purpose in Dance
• The Daily Life of a Ballet Company

Chapters

• Understanding Intent in Dance

• The Essence of an Artist

• Complexions: A Fusion of Dance Styles

• Working with Icons: Michael Jackson and Prince

• The Journey of Complexions

• Training and Technique in Dance

• The Influence of European Dance

• The Importance of Authenticity in Art

• The Growth of Dance Intensives

• Diversity in Dance Training

• The Role of Mentorship in Dance

• The Journey of a Dancer

• Cultural Experiences in Dance

• The Importance of Audience Connection

• Passion to Power in Dance

Michelle Zeitlin is a former ballet dancer with the Joffrey Ballet Concert Group; She worked with the Creator of A Chorus Line and Show Creator of DREAMGIRLS, on the original Broadway Workshop, SCANDAL--Michael Bennett. She has danced on TV, in feature films, commercials, music videos and choreographed and directed hundreds of projects. Her company, More Zap Productions produced turnkey Experiential Events (Industrials) for major brands including NIKE, APPLE, INTEL, and many many others.

She has also danced ballets, contemporary choreography and musicals around the globe. So it is with this like minded understanding that she interviews Desmond Richardson, co-founder of COMPLEXIONS, a contemporary ballet company, with Dwight Rhoden.

They talk about their mutual work experiences with "folks" like Michael Peters. 

Michelle met with Bob Fosse at the very young age of seventeen in NY to read for the movie, STAR 80.

Desmond danced with Bob Fosse in his world wide hit which was all DANCE. Shirley MacLaine and Cyd Charrise were in that audience, along with MJ, who sent Desmond a fan note backstage!
For more on Complexions, see their website https://www.complexionscontemporaryballet.org/

For More on Michelle Zeitlin, Host/Producer of More Zap Productions & Management https://www.morezap.com/

You can pitch guests to Michelle and her Team at Passion-Power.com on the Contact Form

We are also booking speaking engagements, workshops and coaching clinics for CREATIVES at every stage of their development/career.

[email protected]

Thanks for listening! We'd appreciate a 5 star Rating!

Summary of this Episode:

• Summary In this engaging conversation, Michelle Zeitlin interviews Carla ONDRASIK, a motivational coach and author, about her philosophy of 'doing' rather than 'trying.' Carla shares insights from her upcoming book, discusses the importance of finding one's passion, and offers practical advice for navigating the modern music industry. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, including Carla's life as a shopping cart heiress and her experiences in the music world alongside her husband, John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting.

Takeaways

• Trying is a holding pattern, not true action.
• Passion leads to power and fulfillment in life.
• You can find your sweet spot by identifying what comes naturally to you.
• Networking is crucial in the music industry.
• You don't need a record company to succeed anymore.
• Be bold and think outside the box in your career.
• The importance of asking for what you want cannot be overstated.
• Effort is necessary, but it should lead to doing, not just trying.
• Have fun with your pursuits; you have everything to gain.
• The mindset of doing is essential for success.

Keywords

Carla Ondrasik, self-help, motivation, passion, music industry, Mel Robbins, trying vs doing, personal development, networking, book release

• Chapters

Introduction to Carla ONDRASIK

The Power of Doing vs. Trying

Finding Your Passion to Power

Tools for Transformation

Influences and Inspirations

Networking and Opportunities in Music

Navigating the Modern Music Industry

The Importance of Asking

Personal Insights and Family Background

The Essence of Hatha Yoga and Effort

The Power of Doing vs. Trying

Book Launch: Stop Trying

Innovative Solutions for Homelessness

Advocacy Through Music

Building Connections and Future Plans

With a forward by Mel Robbins, Carla's book is available September 23, 2025 with Post Hill Press.

• Michelle Zeitlin is the President of More Zap Productions & Management LLC. She is the host of PASSION TO POWER and known as a "Hollywood iNsider"

Talent & Literary Rep, Producer and a former Director-Choreographer, who now represents artists, actors, authors of all ages in multiple markets including in the US, UK, Australia, Canada.

Michelle Zeitlin is a former ballerina who works with aspiring and pivoting CREATIVES to help them create their own Yellow Brick Road to Success. How to manage a CAREER in the arts ad entertainment and find your own bridge from Passion to Power.

If you're interested in a Workshop, Clinic or Coaching, please visit our websites and contact us to customize a perfect program.

THIS EPISODE was released from Barcelona, Spain, while Michelle Zeitlin was working remotely and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea, playing volleyball! Follow your passion!

http://www.morezap.com

http://passion-power.com

• Michelle's kernel of gold for this episode-
• "Don't be Afraid to ASK."

TEAM: Mark David, Opening Bumper VO; Tiffany Phan, Alec Papadol, Julia Stier

* Resilience and Reinvention

Wendy Miller has had a very CREATIVE career:

• Oprah Winfrey
• Oxygen
• NBC Universal
• Playboy TV
• Author
• Sexologist
• Entrepreneur
• Cat Lover

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Wendy Miller shares her journey from a successful executive in television to an entrepreneur and social media influencer. She discusses her experiences at CatCon, her career highlights, and the evolution of her personal brand on LinkedIn. Wendy also delves into her entrepreneurial ventures, including her tarot card line and upcoming projects, while offering insights into relationships and sexology, emphasizing simplicity in understanding men's needs. In this engaging conversation, Wendy Miller shares her journey through relationships, mentorship, and personal growth. She discusses the importance of self-improvement, the lessons learned from her experiences in the entertainment industry, and the value of surrounding oneself with smarter individuals. Wendy also reflects on her childhood as a child actor, her unconventional educational path, and the significance of trusting oneself in pursuing creative endeavors. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds and betting on oneself as a key to success.

“Betting on yourself is the most important investment you can make.”--Wendy Miller

Highlights:

• Working at Playboy TV transformed Wendy's understanding of relationships. She is a “Sexologist.”
• Mistakes can be valuable lessons if you learn from them.
• Life lessons can come from unexpected sources, including friends and mentors.
• Education can take many forms; experiential learning is valuable.
• Trusting yourself is crucial in pursuing your passions.
• Cats have a mystical origin story…

“You were the only person who brought back-up dancers to a pitch!” (To Michelle, host)

• Michelle Zeitlin is President of MORE ZAP Productions & Management and the host of PASSION TO POWER
• She has given workshops internationally and is the Hollywood iNsider for arts conservatories, colleges in the US and UK, keynote speaker and educator and she loves to speak with experts in their lane who can share their personal and professional trajectories which she calls their YELLOW BRICK ROADS TO SUCCESS.
• If you'd like to appear on this Career Creative Series, reach out by email to [email protected]
• Publicists and Talent reps can reach out as well with a strong and detailed query and LINKS.

• More Zap is a talent and literary boutique with a client base of actors/artists/authors.
• http://www.morezap.com
• http://www.passion-power.com
• Mark David, VOG Opening Bumper
• Julia Stier, Alec Zizi Papadol, Tiffany Phan, Assistants

Passion to Power Presents:

Coach Carole: NO Bullshit 4 Writers & Creatives

CaroleKirschner.com
Keywords: career coaching, diversity in entertainment, writing advice, pitching, underrepresented voices, entertainment industry, creative careers, mentorship, storytelling

Michelle Zeitlin interviews Carole Kirschner

Highlights of their discussion:

1. Diversity initiatives that have launched over 120 writers of color in the industry.
2. The CBS Diversity Writers Mentoring Program 
3. Writers must learn to sell themselves, not just their work.
4. The entertainment industry is cyclical; opportunities come and go.
5. Aspiring creatives should build relationships before asking for favors.
6. Resilience is key in navigating the ups and downs of the industry.
7. Effective pitching requires engaging storytelling and personal connections.
8. Ageism exists, but contemporary, high-concept material can help overcome it.

Buy her Book:

Hollywood Game Plan: How to Land a Job in Film, TV and Digital Entertainment

Quote from Carole:

“I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the top professionals in the business – writers, producers, directors and executives. I’ve also hired or mentored hundreds of talented, ambitious entertainment professionals who blasted through barriers to achieve success in Hollywood.”

Michelle Zeitlin, Host /Producer of More Zap Productions & Management LLC, a Talent & Literary Boutique

www.morezap.com

To invite Michelle Zeitlin to Chair or Be a Guest on your Event Panel, to book a Speaking Engagement or Create a Customized Program for your Students, Conservatory or Special Event, reach out to Passion to Power: Passion-Power.com

[email protected]

• 
  
• If you want to PITCH your special guest, please send a press kit and cover note via email to Michelle: [email protected] or fill out the online request form on our websites.

We are especially interested in Experts in Entertainment, the Performing Arts, Media, Music, Book Publishing and Experiential Events.

The POWER (and PASSION) of VOICE

In this engaging conversation, Michelle Zeitlin interviews Denise Woods, a renowned voice coach, about the intricate relationship between identity, culture, and voice in performance. They explore how cultural assumptions and linguistic patterns affect communication, the importance of confidence in voice development, and the impact of technology on the voice acting industry. Denise shares valuable insights for aspiring artists and those pivoting in their careers, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and effective communication.

Takeaways

• Identity is crucial in performance and encompasses various aspects of a person's background.
• Cultural assumptions can influence how we perceive and communicate with others.
• Confidence plays a significant role in voice development and performance.
• Technology has changed the voice acting landscape, often at the expense of artistic nuance.
• Good acting is more important than perfect dialects in securing roles.
• Aspiring artists should focus on effective communication and self-identity.
• The ability to articulate thoughts clearly is essential for success in any field.
• Health and well-being are foundational for making career pivots later in life.
• Embracing all linguistic patterns enriches communication and performance.
• Patience and self-acceptance are key to personal growth and success.

Sound Bites

• "The story is the star."
• "Confidence is everything."
• "Let time be time."

Keywords: voice acting, identity, cultural assumptions, confidence, technology, performance, linguistics, acting techniques, career advice, personal development

Prestige:

1. Denise has worked with Mahershala Ali, Academy Award Winner.
2. Halle Berry, Academy Award Winner
3. Zoe Saldaña, Academy Award Winner

And many other performers who have been AWARD Winners on Stage and Screen. Don't miss a Word!

• Michelle Zeitlin is the host and producer of this podcast series for CREATIVES. With the goal of offering legacy conversations, kernels of gold and many optional paths to one's Yellow Brick Road to Success, Michelle incorporates her own experience and wisdom, with 4 decades of life in the ARTS & Entertainment, to support and inspire, motivate and educate. As a catalyst to CREATIVE conversation, Michelle has utilized her rich network of executives in TV & Film, Ad Agency & Marketing worlds, Digital Ent., Book Publishing, Music, Dance, Theatre and "Thought Leaders" who share with generosity and curiosity.

• If you would like to be a GUEST on Passion to Power, please visit Passion-Power.com and fill out our Form or send an email to [email protected]. Please send links, bios and supportive material for consideration.

For more on Denise Woods, see her website: https://www.speakitclearly.com/

Live in the And

“I WAS A BUILDER. I WAS A CREATOR”

In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Turner discusses her journey of empowerment through health and wellness, integrating her experiences in media and education. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, and the power of storytelling in driving social change. Dr. Turner shares her insights on teaching leadership skills, navigating career paths in entertainment, and the significance of staying true to one's values amidst chaos.

• Health and wellness are integral to personal success.

• Storytelling can drive behavioral change in communities.
• Integrating different aspects of oneself leads to empowerment.
• Teaching leadership skills can empower future generations.
• Navigating a career in entertainment requires adaptability.
• Authenticity fosters better relationships in professional settings.
• Creating content is more accessible than ever.
• Staying true to one's values is essential in a chaotic world.

Sound Bites

• "I struggled with weight and asthma."
• "You can create your own content now."

Takeaways

• Empowerment is a skill developed through experience.
• Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.

https://www.drjenniferturner.com

https://www.drjenniferturner.com/contact

"I can do this, I can do that."

• Empowerment Through Health and Wellness
• 
  
• The Intersection of Media and Health
• 
  
• Navigating Assertiveness and Self-Discovery
• 
  
• The Journey to Success in Entertainment
• 
  
• New Chapter Finance to Creative Daytime TV
• 
  
• From Banking to Creativity: A Journey Begins
• 
  
• Embracing Your Creative Self
• 
  
• The Balance of Entrepreneurship and Corporate Experience

• Michelle Zeitlin, Host/Producer, is a "Hollywood iNsider"
• who has mentored, coached and educated around the globe. Use your passions to create that Yellow Brick Road to Your Success. #passiontopower
• MoreZap.com is a talent and literary company that develops people and projects.
• Michelle is the mom of two in their 20's- a rock star and philosophy student, and is the "motherger" to artists/authors/actors who are based in Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, Melbourne, London, Las Vegas and Atlanta.
• To book a Workshop or Seminar or Speaking engagement with Michelle Zeitlin, please visit www.passion-power.com and send us a message.
• You can also pitch your people for us to consider as GUESTS.

 Kamala Avila-Salmon

Founder of KAS KAS Productions

“Black is Not a Genre”

Our first meeting on Zoom took place the day the fires broke in PP; in fact, I received an alert on my phone about the Pacific Palisades Fire and asked Kamala, who was on the Westside, if she heard anything, smelled anything …and as I wrapped our first conversation, the fire had spread and the winds in my neighborhood were increasing. 

I remember recording an Instagram about how elated I was about this talk, and noticing the crazy winds off my deck, at that time 40 mph. History was made that day, with the start of one of the worst California fires ever, and they were spreading…

A month later, on MLK Day, we recorded this conversation. Significant in so many ways.

Highlights:

1. The Concept of 'White as Neutral' in Storytelling
2. The Importance of Diverse Narratives
3. Intersectionality and Identity
4. The Misrepresentation of DEI
5. The Role of Youth in Storytelling
6. The Future of Storytelling and Inclusivity
7. Navigating Race and Identity in Conversations
8. Advice for Aspiring Creatives

Two Important humorous notes:

1. Koalas are not from Jamaica, they are from Australia, but  KAMALA is from Jamaica.
2. Also, she lived in Queens (a borough in New York ) but she is also a “QUEEN” who is from the country of Jamaica, not Jamaica, Queens.

• “But it also really jives with the way that I think about problems and think about situations…  from a very sort of 360 lens.”

• “Colorblind Ideology….what’s wrong with saying black?”

• “You know… for me, storytelling is the most effective canvas that we have for social change. That is the thing that brought me to the industry. 

• “And those of us that work in entertainment and in content have the privilege and the responsibility of shaping culture.”

• “Black is not a genre. I still don't know anything about the movie. If you tell me it's a black movie.”

Black: Represents the Resilient people whose existence as a nation is honored and affirmed by the existence of a flag. Red: Symbolizes the blood of innocent Black lives that have been shed throughout history. Yellow: Stands for optimism, justice and equality for everyone. Green: Symbolizes Africa's rich greenery and other natural resources.

• https://parade.com/living/black-history-month-colors

This year's Black History Month theme is "African Americans and Labor." According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), this theme "focuses on the various and profound ways that work and working of all kinds–free and unfree, skilled and unskilled, vocational and voluntary–intersect with the collective experiences of Black people."

Use the hashtag #passiontopower

Thanks to the More Zap team-Jason Usry, final mastering sound editing; Alec Zizi Papadol, promo; Mark David, VOG

• www.passion-power.com
• www.morezap.com

@therealKAS1 Kamala's IG

@morezap1 Michelle's IG

YELLOW BRICK ROAD TO SUCCESS

Passion to Power

 Jason Jordan 

Navigating the Competitive Music Landscape

Data analytics play a significant role in artist development.

Sound Bites

Takeaways