On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Graham McTavish.  We chat about working on the STARZ series, Outlander, as well as the show he and his Outlander co-star, Sam Heughan created for STARZ, Men and Kilts: A Road Trip with Sam and Graham.  The new season debuts on STARZon August 11th.  We also chat about acting on the Netflix series, The Witcher, as well as the Game of Thrones prequel, House of The Dragon on Max.

We discuss Graham’s life growing up in Scotland, to his study in London, to decades working and acting in projects around the world.  We also chat about his memorable experiences on TV projects like 24, Preacher and the The Hobbit series of films.  We also touch on his latest projects, including the independent movie Somewhere in Montana and season four of The Witcher.  

It was a pleasure to bring you this intriguing chat with the talented actor and proper Scotsman, Graham McTavish!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:03:13 - Scottish Ancestry and Family History

0:08:32 - Unscripted and Improvisational

0:12:13 - Shakespeare's Folio and Acting Career

0:18:25 - Contradictions in Beautiful New Zealand

0:21:24 - Family Background and Acting Opportunities

0:28:19 - Discovering Passion for Acting

0:34:16 - Touring Across America

0:40:01 - Being in the Hobbit

0:42:46 - Upcoming Projects and Travel Challenges

0:50:43 - Career Paths and Advice

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #GrahamMcTavish #Starz #Outlander #OutlanderStarz #MeninKilts #MeninKiltsSTARZ #Netflix #TheWitcher #WitcherNetflix #GameofThrones #HouseofTheDragon #HouseofTheDragonHBO #Max #StreamonMax #TheHobbit #TheHobbitMovie #actor #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Nathan Kress!  Nathan is a former child actor who has matured into a successful adult actor, director, and producer. Nathan shares his journey from his breakout role on Nickelodeon's "iCarly" to working on the show's reboot on Paramount Plus. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning from a child to an adult actor.  

Nathan also gives us a peek into his personal life - balancing family, career, and the demanding schedule of TV production. We touch on the importance of his family's support in his career.  We also talk about the joy of working with old friends on the new iCarly, as well as the creative process behind making a multi-cam sitcom.  We also get into Nathan's love for directing and his interest in producing.

We take a moment to our mutual love of BBQ, as well as his surprise engagement present to his wife - and how he and his daughter’s continue to enjoy that gift (a 1965 Mustang convertible).  This is a great chat about acting, family, and what’s next for Nathan Kress.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:09:21 - Parenting

0:12:49 - Reconnecting With Old Co-Stars

0:19:47 - Making the Transition from Child to Adult Actor

0:21:49 - Future of iCarly and Career Goals

0:23:23 - The Challenges of Multicam Directing

0:36:16 - Parental Sacrifice for Child's Entertainment Career

0:48:45 - Bonding Through Car Rides With Daughters

0:51:46 - Reflecting on Life's Challenges and Lessons

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #NathanKress #OfficialNathanKress #iCarly #Nickelodeon #ParamountPlus #Freddie #actor #childactor #acting #actorslife #parenting #parents #children #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with comedic actor, Matt Walsh.  We chatted about his Emmy-nominated role as Mike McClintock on Veep, as well as his work as a founding member of the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB).  We also discussed Matt’s new Hulu movie, Flamin' Hot.

Matt reflects on his time growing up in Chicago, his work on The Daily Show, Saturday Night Live and a number of his other memorable roles in TV and film. We also touch on Matt's podcast Second in Command, his kids' reaction to his work, and his thoughts on comedy, acting, and his plans for future projects.

It was a pleasure to bring you a fun glimpse into the life of one of the busiest comedic actors in Hollywood…Matt Walsh! 

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:08:59 - UCB and Its Founding Members

0:11:35 - UCB Legacy and Growth

0:19:42 - Navigating Life's Challenges With Age

0:23:47 - Parenting and Entertainment Industry

0:32:51 - Comedy, Acting, and Future Projects

0:36:59 - Acting Career Aspirations

0:39:27 - Collaborating With Eva Longoria

0:52:28 - Future and Finding Interests

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #mattwalsh #actor #flaminhot #flaminhotmovie #hulu #comedy #improv #ucb #ucbtla #ucbtny #ucbcomedy #uprightcitizensbrigrade #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Fabiana Udenio, the talented Italian actress who plays Arnold Schwarzenegger's wife in the new Netflix series, FUBAR. Fabiana shared her journey from moving to the United States in the late 80s, her experience working on a soap opera in New York, and starring in the classic 80s movie Summer School. We also discussed her being born in Argentina, then her life growing up in Italy. 

Fabiana and I explore her passion for performing. We also touch on her experiences as a single mother of a teenager.  We chat about what it was like to work with Arnold Schwarzenegger in FUBAR, as well as the fun experiences and challenges during production.

This was a great conversation about Fabiana’s career, family and passions.  So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy this insightful and entertaining conversation with the lovely Fabiana Udenio!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:06:26 - Acting Career in the US

0:16:32 - Careers in Travel

0:23:35 - Acting Preferences and Experience

0:32:14 - Italian Cooking and Self-Doubt

0:38:51 - Audition Process for FUBAR

0:49:57 - What Makes a Perfect Day?

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #FUBAR #FubarNetflix #Netflix #SummerSchool #ArnoldSchwarzenegger #ItalianActor #Rome #80sMovies #80s #actor #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down for a chat with actor, Milana Vayntrub, whom you may recognize as Lily from the AT&T commercials. We talked about her career, which dates back to when she was just five years old, and what it's like to be an actor in the industry. Listen in as we discuss the importance of standing out in the industry, and how there can only be one Lily.

Milana shared her unique background, having been born in Uzbekistan and moving to Los Angeles when she was around three years old. We discussed the influence of her immigrant community on her life and how L.A. is a great place to settle for people from all backgrounds. We explored Milana's involvement in the entertainment industry, which was sparked by her mother's own acting background and her own energetic personality.

We also touched upon Milana's experiences as a child actor, her transition from commercials to TV and film, and how she discovered the benefits of collaboration and creativity through theater and improv. We wrapped up our conversation discussing her favorite comfort food, influential people in her life, and her first celebrity crush (and former co-star), George Clooney. Be sure to tune in for this engaging and insightful discussion with the one and only Milana Vayntrub!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:02:58 - Behind the Scenes of Production

0:05:53 - Family Careers and Immigration

0:12:09 - Child Acting and Behind the Scenes

0:16:00 - Using Art to Fight Depression

0:17:29 - The Benefits of Play and Improv

0:25:30 - Self-Made Hollywood Success

0:28:04 - Challenges of Recognizability in Acting

0:36:08 - Love vs. Oppression

0:42:18 - Passions and Potential Professions

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #MilanaVayntrub #ATT #Lily #actor #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down for a chat with actor, Sebastian Roché. You may know him from his roles in The Man in the High Castle, The Young Pope, Vampire Diaries, and Six Underground with Ryan Reynolds. We'll discuss his newest project, Taylor Sheridan's 1923, and the incredible experiences that shaped his life and career.

Listen in as Sebastian shares his extraordinary upbringing, living on a sailing boat for six years as his family traveled the Mediterranean, Africa, the Caribbean, and South America. This unique experience not only helped him grow as a person, but also sparked his passions for spearfishing, freediving, and shell collecting. Sebastian's fascinating journey has taken him all the way to his current home in Venice, California, where he continues to sail and participate in summer racing series.

We'll also explore Sebastian's passion for theater and film, his love for Korean cooking, and his admiration for Alexandre Dumas and The Count of Monte Cristo. From his early days memorizing books about film to his roles in television shows like Fringe, Supernatural, and 1923, Sebastian's enthusiasm and commitment to his craft have made him a standout talent in the industry. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Sebastian Roche on Story and Craft!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:06:16 - Life-Changing Years on a Boat

0:12:48 - Film Fascination and Childhood Memories

0:15:54 - Scottish Family Castles and Ancestry

0:22:08 - Production of Show in Vancouver

0:29:28 - Praise for the Show 1883

0:39:01 - Manifesting Acting Opportunities

0:41:14 - Residential School Horrors and Father Reneau

1:01:02 - Promoting 1923 and Story & Craft

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #SebastianRoche #Actor #1923 #1923Official #ParamountPlus #Yellowstone #YellowstoneParamount #1883 #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down for a chat with actor, Tom Brooke.  He stars in the upcoming Sam Mendes movie, Empire of Light. Tom shared his experiences working with an incredible cast in one of my personal favorite movies, Pirate Radio, as well as his admiration for the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. We also discussed his work in popular TV shows like Bodyguard, Preacher, and The Crown.

Tom opened up about his daughter's adaptability while living in different countries and how kids have adjusted to the challenges of COVID-19. We also reminisced about his time working on the movie, Pirate Radio, which brought back memories of my own childhood aspirations of working in radio. Additionally, we touched on Tom's own childhood memories and growing up with his father, who was an actor as well.  

We explored Tom's journey to becoming an actor, his preference for stage or on-camera work, and the life of a working actor with a family. We also talked about his role in the Sam Mendes project, Empire of Light, as well as how his mother's passing provided him the motivation to join the project. So, join us in this engaging and heartfelt episode, as we dive into the world of storytelling with the talented Tom Brooke.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:10:55 - Early Theater and Movie Influences

0:18:16 - Talking Shop at Family Dinner

0:23:53 - Empowering Girls Financially

0:28:44 - Theater Education and Voice Training

0:37:21 - Empire of Light Filming Process

0:41:36 - Movie Fandom and Inspiration

0:50:08 - Alternative Vocations and Memories of Kids

0:53:26 - Advice to My Younger Self

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #TomBrooke #EmpireOfLightFilm #EmpireOfLight #SocialShow #actor #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, I have a great conversation with legendary comedian, Dane Cook. He’s got a new comedy special called Above it All. We discuss his new show, as well as his journey in comedy…from being inspired by George Carlin to his own rise in the comedy world, as well as the Zen of Myspace. Dane shares stories of his career, including his first time hosting Saturday Night Live, working with Betty White, and his experiences in films like Waiting, Planes, Dan in Real Life, Good Luck Chuck, Employee of The Month and My Best Friend’s Girl. 

Dane and I also discuss the importance of family and mentorship in his career. He talks about the support from his parents and the impact they had on his comedic style, as well as the guidance from his high school drama teacher. We discuss the early days of Dane's comedy journey and how he became the voice for a generation.

Finally, we touch on the ever-changing landscape of comedy and the influence of comedians from the past. From admiring George Carlin and Robin Williams to collaborating with contemporary comedians like Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, Dane Cook shares his thoughts on the evolution of comedy and what it takes to succeed in the industry. This episode is a must-listen for comedy fans and aspiring comedians alike!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:03:21 - Gen X Awkwardness Nailed

0:10:58 - IMAX Comedy Special on Home Porch

0:19:11 - Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

0:29:40 - Bob Saget's Legacy and Love

0:34:44 - Comedic Influences and Lack of Template

0:38:29 - Living in Belushi's Apartment

0:40:47 - Backstage at SNL With Don Pardo

0:52:21 - Betty White and Childhood Memories

1:00:31 - Acting Inspiration From Stand-Up Career

1:03:24 - Advice From the Past

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com

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#podcast #interview #DaneCook #actor #comedian #comedy #standup #AboveitAll #SNL #SaturdayNightLive #BettyWhite #GoldenGirls #BobSaget #OnlineMarketing #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down for a chat with actor, Fred Melamed.  Fred has spent decades in film, TV, stage and in the studio as a voiceover actor.  He is one of the most recognizable character actors, with memorable roles in films such as In a World, Hail, Caesar! and The Spy Who Dumped Me.  His work on TV includes Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Morning Show, Barry, Wandavision, and Reboot, which is currently airing on Hulu.  

We chat about Fred’s story…from growing up in New York, to studying at Yale, to discovering his passion for acting.  Fred shares insights from his time on Broadway, as well as his work on screen.  We discuss the nuances of creating memorable performances and the impact his roles have had on viewers.  

Finally, we touch on Fred's family life, raising twin sons on the autism spectrum, and the challenges of balancing his professional and personal life. Fred reflects on the importance of culture, behavior, and people-pleasing in the world of entertainment.  Join us for an engaging and insightful look into the life of a talented actor and voiceover artist.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:09:46 - Lake Bell's Script and Voice Acting (69 Seconds)

0:12:53 - Transitioning to Voice Acting (42 Seconds)

0:19:39 - Generational Differences in Discussing Internal Life (68 Seconds)

0:22:54 - The Evolution of Voice Acting (68 Seconds)

0:32:22 - Choosing Roles Based on Contradictions (114 Seconds)

0:37:01 - Adjusting to Family Changes (79 Seconds)

0:49:20 - Jewish Wit on Identity and People-Pleasing (92 Seconds)

0:54:44 - TV Show With a Great Cast (91 Seconds)

1:09:25 - Advice for 16-Year-Old Self (98 Seconds)

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #FredMelamed #Actor #Reboot #Hulu #Wandavision #Marvel #MarvelUniverse #MarvelStudios #actor #acting #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach #volife

This week on the Story and Craft Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with the talented actor, Melissa O'Neil, who plays Officer Lucy Chen on the ABC Television show The Rookie. We talked about everything from her Canadian Idol win at just 17 years old to her experiences on Broadway and her journey from Calgary to Toronto to New York and Los Angeles. 

We explored Melissa's family heritage and how she's reclaiming her mother's roots while connecting with her father's hidden family. Along the way, we discussed everything from the power of intention to self-learning and meditation, and how these practices have helped her approach her work in an honest and authentic way.

Finally, we discussed the challenges of juggling a Broadway schedule and how to take care of your voice while performing, as well as Melissa's passion for wellness and teaching others the knowledge she’s acquired. Don't miss this engaging and entertaining conversation with Melissa O'Neil!

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:08:30 - Ensemble Work and Self-Pressure

0:23:39 - Talent Shows and Hobbies

0:30:53 - Perceptions of New York City

0:36:27 - Claiming your space in the industry

0:40:00 - An actor's reference for a comfortable work environment

0:45:42 - Rebel autonomy coming of age story

0:55:35 - Vibratory Stones and Sacred Objects

1:01:24 - Enthusiasm about working on an LA-based show

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com.

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#podcast #interview #MelissaOneil #Actor #TheRookie #TheRookieABC #ABC #ABCNetwork #CanadianIdol #DarkMatter #DarkMatterSeries #SYFY #Intention #Meditation #Wellness #acting #actorslife #storyandcraft #voiceover #voiceactor #voiceovercoach #volife