Ryan O’Connell and Punam Patel join the podcast together this week to discuss advocating for oneself as an artist, giving voice to communities underrepresented in entertainment, and their hit Netflix comedy, “Special,” which just premiered its second season. The two Emmy-nominated actors provide relatable advice to performers and writers looking to make their mark in Hollywood—confidently. “You can trust your own instincts no matter where you are in your career,” says Punam. “Just [believe] that you deserve to be there,” adds Ryan.

Chasing a childhood dream of becoming a TV writer, the California-born Ryan turned the blog writing of his 20s into a memoir, “I’m Special: And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves,” which Jim Parsons optioned through That’s Wonderful Productions. “Special,” which premiered as a 15-minute Emmy-nominated sitcom inspired by Ryan’s life as a gay man with mild cerebral palsy, made its way through development as Ryan wrote for the series “Awkward,” “Daytime Divas,” and “Will & Grace.” Punam, who was the only actor auditioned for the role of Ryan’s coworker and friend Kim on “Special,” studied journalism and theater in Florida, then comedy in Chicago, before moving to Los Angeles and booking “Kevin From Work,” “Time For Bed With Punam Patel,” the upcoming “I Love This for You,” and more.

Next week, be sure to check out BackstageFest: a virtual celebration of the year’s best and buzziest TV! Visit join.backstage.com/backstagefest to RSVP.

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Backstage has been the #1 resource for actors and talent-seekers for 60 years. In the Envelope, Backstage’s podcast, features intimate, in-depth conversations with today’s most noteworthy film, television, and theater actors and creators. This is your guide to every aspect of acting, from voiceover and commercial work to casting directors, agents, and more. Full of both know-how and inspiration, In the Envelope airs weekly to cover everything from practical advice on navigating the industry, to how your favorite projects are made, to personal stories of success and failure alike. Join host Jack Smart, Awards Editor at Backstage, for this guide on how to live the creative life from those who are doing it every day: https://bit.ly/2OMryWQ

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