In this episode, we put our own script for The Turn of the Screw to the test — running it through ChatGPT for a side-by-side analysis with Henry James’s original novella. What did we preserve from James’s haunting classic, and where did we take creative liberties? From framing devices to ghostly ambiguity, we explore the choices that make our adaptation uniquely theatrical while staying true to the spirit of the source. If you’ve ever wondered how a literary masterpiece evolves when it moves to the stage, this episode gives you both the blueprint and the behind-the-scenes perspective on our Creative Cauldron production.

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In this episode, we’re giving you Henry James 101 — a crash course in the life, style, and legacy of one of literature’s most complex storytellers. From his mastery of psychological nuance to his lasting influence on modern fiction, we’ll unpack what makes James essential reading. Then, we pivot to the stage with a sneak peek into our latest production of his chilling classic The Turn of the Screw at Creative Cauldron. Whether you’re new to James or revisiting his haunting world, this episode blends literary insight with behind-the-scenes perspective on bringing his work to life in 2025.

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In this episode, we wrap up Summer 2025 — from the personal milestones to the cultural moments that defined the season — and look ahead to what’s coming this fall. From highlights that made the summer memorable to the events and projects on the horizon, it’s part reflection, part preview, and all conversation.

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In this episode, we take on the headlines of the day — not with seriousness, but with satire. From the absurd to the all-too-familiar, we lampoon the news cycle, poking fun at the stories that dominate our feeds and laughing at the way they’re told. Think of it as a real-time roast of the world’s current events, with our own twists, tangents, and plenty of humor along the way.

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https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan

In this episode, we dive into what’s trending on TikTok — from the videos filling our For You pages to the oddly specific corners of the app that pop up in our own feeds. Along the way, we compare notes on our personal algorithms, laugh at how different (and sometimes eerily accurate) they can be, and even roll with an unexpected phone call that briefly interrupts the recording (don’t worry, we’re back after just a couple of seconds). It’s a laid-back, real-time look at the wild world of TikTok through our own scrolling habits.

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https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan

In this episode, we switch things up with a grab bag of surprise questions — each written in secret and revealed on the spot. From dream vacations to the movies and documentaries we’ve been watching lately, no topic was off-limits. The result is a funny, freewheeling conversation full of unexpected tangents, shared stories, and plenty of laughs. If you’re into spontaneous, unfiltered chats that wander wherever curiosity takes us, this one’s for you.

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In this episode, we dive headfirst into our love for the groundbreaking 2001 film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. From its punk-rock heart to its soul-baring storytelling, we explore what makes this cult classic so enduring—and so personal to us. We unpack the mythology behind “The Origin of Love,” dig into the dual versions of “Wicked Little Town,” and share how Hedwig shaped our own creative journeys. Whether you first saw it onstage or discovered it on screen, this one’s for the misfits, dreamers, and lovers of bold, beautiful storytelling.

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Broadway performer and creative force PJ Adzima joins us for a lively conversation about his journey from The Book of Mormon to launching Stage Time, a late-night cabaret series that celebrates spontaneity and self-expression. We explore the origins of this after-hours tradition, the joy of building community through performance, and the many ways PJ continues to nurture creativity on and off the stage. It’s an inspiring look at the heart of a true artist who knows how to keep the spotlight shining—long after curtain call.

Learn more about PJ Adzima’s “ Stage Time” here:

https://stagetimenyc.com/

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Join Matt and me for Episode 140 as we catch up with our friend, fellow Shenandoah University alum, and Broadway star J. Robert Spencer! You may know him from Jersey Boys and Next to Normal, but today he’s here to talk about hosting the upcoming Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre benefit concert on August 3rd.

Plus, we’ll let you know how you can score two FREE tickets to the show!

Don’t miss this fun conversation with one of Broadway’s finest—stream it now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Get tickets to the SSMT Benefit here:

https://tickets.su.edu/25-ssmt-special-events/25-08-ssmt-benefit-concert

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Join Matt and me for Episode 139 as we let the sunshine in—but only a little—as we revisit the 1979 film adaptation of Hair. While the stage musical is a landmark of counterculture theatre, the movie left us… less than groovy.

We talk about what didn’t quite work: the disjointed plot, the lack of emotional connection, and a few choices that left us scratching our heads instead of tossing our hair. That said, there are some bright spots—tremendous choreography, iconic songs, and a few powerful performances that deserve their flowers.

If you’re a fan of Hair, you might want to brace yourself. If you’re not, well… you’re not alone. Either way, we dig into the era, the legacy, and why this one didn’t quite hit the high notes for us.

Let the sun not completely shine in. 🌥️

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