Sands Talks

Summary: In this episode, Raja Benz and Greg Geffrard, intimacy professionals, discuss their roles in the performing arts, emphasizing the importance of consent, cultural competency, and creating safe spaces for performers. They explore the complexities of intimacy work, the challenges they face in a predominantly white field, and the significance of representation in storytelling. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of intimacy work in the entertainment industry and the need for ongoing advocacy and education to ensure that all voices are heard and respected.

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
Connect with Caroline on Instagram
Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

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 

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Summary: In this episode of In the Podlight, award-winning playwright and screenwriter Aurin Squire discusses his journey from journalism to writing for theater and television. He shares insights on the importance of representation in storytelling, the dynamics of a writer's room, and the significance of diverse voices behind the camera. Aurin also reflects on his aspirations for future projects, the influence of sports on his creative discipline, and his self-care practices as a creative professional.

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
Connect with Caroline on Instagram
Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website\

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

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit 

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.

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Summary: In this episode of In the Podlight, hosts Grant and Caroline speak with Teresa Walters, Vice President of Health and Human Services at Music Cares. Teresa shares her extensive background in humanitarian work and discusses the critical role Music Cares played during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing nearly $36 million in emergency relief to music professionals. The conversation explores the ongoing challenges within the music industry, the importance of inclusivity, and the organization's commitment to community engagement and philanthropy. Teresa emphasizes the need for compassion and confidentiality in their services, and reflects on her personal inspirations and future goals.

Takeaways:
●  Music Cares 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 Music Cares.
●  The Day That Music Cares fosters community connection and service.
●  Teresa 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 Teresa.

Chapters:
00:00Introduction to Music Cares and Teresa Walters
02:50Teresa's Background and Humanitarian Work
06:09The Role of Music Cares During the Pandemic
08:55Challenges in the Music Industry
12:11Success Metrics and Community Engagement
15:03Philanthropy and Fundraising Strategies
18:03Inclusivity and Collaboration in Music Cares
20:58The Day That Music Cares
23:48Inspiration and Future Goals
26:56Final Thoughts and Lightning Round

Connect with MusiCares on Instagram
Connect with Caroline on Instagram
Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

Check out the MusiCares on their website

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit 

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 

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Summary: Casting directors Kim Montaliba-Nohail and Victor Vazquez discuss the significance of regional theater in the American arts landscape. They explore the role of regional theaters in nurturing new works, the challenges of casting in different mediums, and the economic impacts of the pandemic on the theater industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of representation, the complexities of casting expenses, and the ongoing efforts to create equitable opportunities for underrepresented voices in the arts. Both share personal insights on the journey of an artist, the value of community, and the need for persistence in the face of challenges.

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.

Chapters
00:00Introduction to Regional Theater and Its Importance
03:02The Role of Regional Theaters in American Canon
05:47Casting in Regional Theater vs. Film and TV
08:53Challenges of Casting and Audience Expectations
12:00Economic Impact of the Pandemic on Regional Theater
15:09Navigating Casting Expenses and Equity
17:51Advocating for Representation in Casting
21:05Success and Failure in the Arts
23:51Finding Equitable Opportunities in Different Regions
27:06The Journey of an Actor in Today's Landscape
29:50Personal Values and Professional Life in the Arts
33:02The Importance of Community and Relationships
35:57Final 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

Check out the Old Globe Theatre on their website

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit  

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.

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Summary: In this conversation, Tony Award-winning Broadway actress and producer LaChanze discusses her work as the president of Black Theater United and her mission to create a more inclusive and diverse Broadway. She shares her journey as an actress and producer, the importance of representation in the industry, and her commitment to bringing the work of overlooked artists, such as Alice Childress, to the forefront. LaChanze also talks about her production company and her passion for increasing and diversifying audiences in the theater. 

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 believes that representation is crucial in both on 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.

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 LaChanze on Instagram/Threads & X
Connect with Caroline on Instagram
Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

Check out & join Black Theatre United on their website
Check out The Outsiders on Broadway – tickets available through their website
Check out Kimberly Akimbo on tour – tickets available through their website

 The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit 

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.

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Summary: Rebecca Damon, executive vice president and New York Local 1 president of SAG-AFTRA, discusses the SAG-AFTRA merger, 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.

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 Rebecca on Instagram & Threads
Connect with Caroline on Instagram
Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

 Check SAG/AFTRA on their website

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit  

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.

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Welcome to In the Podlight, the podcast where we shine a spotlight on creatives from all walks of life. In this teaser episode, hosts Caroline Liem and Grant Kretchik introduce the show’s mission: to celebrate and explore the diverse experiences and identities within the creative industry.

This season, we're diving into thought-provoking discussions with a range of guests who share their unique insights and experiences in the post-pandemic entertainment world. Some of the guests you’ll hear from:

•  Rebecca Damon: on the critical need for strong AI regulations to protect human creativity and the importance of prioritizing humanity in our evolving digital landscape.
• Greg Geffrard on the emotional impact of the pandemic and why many people struggled to return to the places where they once found joy.
• Victor Vazquez on how the decisions made in casting rooms are in constant conversation with the broader political and cultural landscape.
• Michelle Sugihara on the progress in nuanced conversations around identity, from race and gender to the intersections of LGBTQIA+ experiences.

Join us as we illuminate the paths these creatives are forging, navigating both the challenges and opportunities that define the post-pandemic entertainment industry.

Stay Tuned: Get ready for an inspiring season full of in-depth conversations, personal stories, and a celebration of creativity in all its forms.

00:00 – Welcome to In the Podlight

00:09 – Rebecca Damon on AI Regulations and Human Creativity

00:29 – Greg Geffrard on Post-Pandemic Joy and Challenges

00:44 – Victor Vazquez on Cultural Impact of Casting Choices

00:57 – Michelle Sugihara on Progress and Nuance in Representation

01:22 - Closing Remarks

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
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit 

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.

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts BFA Acting for Film, Television, Voiceovers and Commercials Class of 2026 presents…

Til Death Do Us NOT Part
Written by Tom and Ellin Curley for VoiceScapes Audio Theater

• Caller – Isabella Lilavos
• Roommate / Manager – Clayton J. Johnson
• AI Voice – Davie Osborne
• Rep 1 / Supervisor – Jiana Casazza

Produced by Laurie Brown Kindred
Directed by Robin Miles
Sound Engineer, Edits and Sound Design by David Lawson

For more information about Sands College, go to Pace.edu/sands

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts BFA Acting for Film, Television, Voiceovers and Commercials Class of 2026 presents…

Serial Sweetheart
Written by Tom and Ellin Curley for VoiceScapes Audio Theater

• Rachael – Kiara Daniels
• Tracey / Prison Guard – Marie Liu
• Randy – Grant Harrison Mateo
• Beverley – Sammi Denney

Produced by Laurie Brown Kindred
Directed by Robin Miles
Sound Engineer, Edits and Sound Design by David Lawson

For more information about Sands College, go to Pace.edu/sands

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts BFA Acting for Film, Television, Voiceovers and Commercials Class of 2026 presents…

My House is Smarter Than Your House
Written by Tom and Ellin Curley for VoiceScapes Audio Theater

• Husband – Ben Zack
• Wife – Kayla Toure
• Alexa / Dishwasher / Oven / Coffeemaker – Kirah Jean
• Toilet / Refrigerator / Microwave / Siri – Jioke Louis

Produced by Laurie Brown Kindred
Directed by Robin Miles
Sound Engineer, Edits and Sound Design by David Lawson

For more information about Sands College, go to Pace.edu/sands

 Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands College of Performing Arts.