The Take On

ASSAAD YACOUB joined The Take On! Feeling STUCK? Well this episode will speak to you. Assaad talked all things directing and how to carve out your own space in Hollywood. What is the best way to take up space in your career, and how to lean into your creative power. Feeling STUCK? Well this episode will speak to you. Bio: Assaad Yacoub is a director, writer and producer, who attended NYFA's MFA in Filmmaking program.

More about Assaad Yacoub:

Assaad Yacoub is a director, writer and producer, who attended NYFA’s MFA in Filmmaking program. He has directed a variety of drag queen music videos, including Eureka O’Hara’s “The Big Girl,” BeBe Zahara Benet‘s “Jungle Kitty” and Monet X Change‘s “Soak It Up.” Notably, in 2017 he sold his thesis film “Cherry Pop” to Netflix, where it’s streaming now. The film explores a night in the life of a small local bar’s drag show, where a newcomer struggles with being the outcast on his first night, and a legend comes to terms with life after her last night in drag.

Credit Highlights: Cherry Pop, Jungle Kitty, Soak It Up, The Big Girl, Bob The Drag Queen: Purse First

FOLLOW ASSAAD YACOUB:

Instagram: @assaadyacoub

Twitter: @assaadyacoub

Website: www.assaadyacoub.com

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Twitter: @AmirYass_

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MAYHEM MILLER joined The Take On and we discussed finding positivity even during the darkest times and how to rise above those times with resilience. Mayhem opened up about all the ways RuPaul has opened the door for Queens of Color and how she is able to operate through the world with confidence, humor, and humility.

More about Mayhem Miller:

The drama is here! Mayhem Miller crashed the Drag Race party on Season 10. She started strong and won the very first challenge, but a peck-of-pickled problems put her in the bottom, and she sashayed away too soon. Now this L.A. favorite is back to stake her claim on the Hall of Fame. Is it finally Miller time? Follow Mayhem on this season of Rupaul’s Drag Race All-Stars: Season 5!

FOLLOW MAYHEM MILLER:

Instagram: @theonlymayhem

Twitter: @theonlymayhem

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Twitter: @AmirYass_

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KAPIL TALWALKAR joined The Take On and shared what it is like being a South Asian actor in Hollywood and how we can navigate all of our own intersections. Carving out a part of the industry for yourself is no easy feat and Kapil has done it seamlessly. If you feel stuck in your life, this episode will resonate for you!

More about Kapil Talwalkar:

Kapil Talwalkar is an Indian-American actor. He lives in Los Angeles and studied acting at the University of Southern California. After being accepted into the USC Theatre Program. His professional stage debut came during school when he was cast as a leading role alongside C.S. Lee of Dexter fame in East West Players' critically acclaimed production of Animals Out of Paper, where the Los Angeles Times deemed him, "an absolute find." He recently starred as Shahid in My Cousin Sister's Wedding with George Wendt, Lillete Dubey, and David Rasche.

FOLLOW KAPIL TALWALKAR:

Instagram: @ktalwalk

Twitter: @KapilTalkwalkar

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Twitter: @AmirYass_

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DAVID LOPEZ joined The Take On and spoke about intersectionality and how to let go of opportunities that may not have been for you from the jump. Holding on too tight can be your undoing and in this conversation, we dive into how to unlearn some of the bad habits and traumas that we carry. We talk about creating space for ourselves to flourish and how to carve a part of the industry for your own way and in your own voice. Such a GEM episode!

More about David Lopez:

David Lopez is a top fashion & celebrity hairstylist and Beauty Expert based in New York City. Equally comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind the scenes and behind the chair, David also provides commentary on today’s trending styles and dishes out style secrets in a variety of media outlets including: PEOPLE Magazine, StyleCaster, Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Essence, Self, WWD, OK Magazine, Nylon, Vogue, and New York Times. David is also a creative consultant and product developer for various hair care brands. Recent campaigns include work with Chrissy Teigen, Lily Aldridge, Kristen Stewart, Anne Hathaway, Ashley Graham, and Hailey Baldwin. Blending his background in hair with his expertise in Men's Grooming, David has combined the two in the blog Groom&Comb- offering advice on how to keep all of the things in your life beautiful. From your skin and hair, to the clothes you wear, and everything in between- Groom&Comb is a one stop shop for all things beauty. When not on set or with a celebrity, David can be seen hosting on QVC, Beauty IQ, Amazon's StyleCodeLive! w Frankie Grande, and a variety of entertainment segments dishing out his style secrets.

FOLLOW DAVID LOPEZ:

Instagram: @davidlopezzz

YouTube: Groom&Comb

Find out more about Groom&Comb here!

FOLLOW AMIR:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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MISSIN' US? Don't worry we know it's Quarantine so we are giving you a super SPECIAL extra dose of The Take On and it's just Amir this time. We are spilling some major TEA! We are diving into the world of celebrities and unveiling the dark side of being a publicist in Hollywood. From working with the nightmarish Erika Jayne from Real Housewives of Beverly Hills to the lovable A-List actor Michale B. Jordan, Amir has worked for all the creme de la creme of Hollywood. Working as a publicist means not being seen, which was very difficult for someone as big a personality as Amir. From Taco Bell runs at 4AM to bags of weed during the Emmy's no job was ever too small for Amir, and we're going to spill all this tea in this special episode. PR (public relations) taught how Amir how to be himself, it taught him to deal with big personalities, and it taught him to leave PR as soon as it wasn't serving him anymore. Thanks to PR, Amir finally stepped into his most authentic self and further leaned into his divine purpose, which is to entertain not work for entertainers. Amir Yassai worked as a publicist and assistant to a talent manager for almost a decade in Hollywood before pivoting to be talent himself behind the camera and the podcast mic.

More about AMIR:

Amir Yassai is an LGBTQ activist and regularly hosts panels at the LA LGBT center battling transphobia, femme bashing, body shaming, and racism in the queer community. Interviewing a diverse group of people from Carson Kressley to Johnny Sibilly to Eureka O’Hara and Ongina from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Amir has worked as a publicist for LA Fashion Week, Golden Globes, and The Emmy’s. Amir has worked with everyone from Erika Jayne from Real Housewives of Beverly Hills to Michael B. Jordan to Donald Glover & has survived to tell the tale. As an actively visible Queer Muslim Amir hopes to change the way religion and sexual orientation are mutually exclusive. Amir is a self proclaimed “human unicorn.” Three words to explain Amir are Queer, Compassionate & Colorful. 

FOLLOW AMIR:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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EUREKA O’HARA joined The Take On to discuss all things as a world famous drag queen and being your most authentic self. Eureka made a name for themself on Rupaul's Drag Race and now HBO's We're Here, which was just renewed for a 2nd season! Finding your purpose is one of the hardest journeys we go, and Eureka is giving us the roadmap to this journey of self-discovery.

More about Eureka O’Hara:

Eureka started out as a small country child in the heart of East Tennessee.

Standing 6’4 (and that’s without heels, ya’ll) Eureka represents for all the big girls as the PLUS SIZE DRAG SUPER MODEL OF THE WORLD! Her passion has led her to compete on 9 national stages before the age of 26. One of Eureka’s goals is to give bigger people around the world the confidence to go out and live their dreams. With her live action, plus size, fun-loving, Barbie-style, high energy, nothing-but-smiles spirit, working or simply being in the company of Eureka is a roller coaster of uplifting confidence and discovery of self joy.

Eureka quickly moved to a loved member of the community all across the country as she continuously records and debuts her battles and successes through social media.

Eureka’s passion for elephants is a reflection of how she perceives herself and wants to see the world! She regards them as a representation of size-positivity, kindness, and family. This is her fight for those traits to never go extinct.

FOLLOW EUREKA:

Instagram: @eurekaohara

Twitter: @eurekaohara

Facebook: @eurekaohara

YouTube: Eureka O'Hara

Website: www.eurekatheelephantqueen.com

FOLLOW AMIR:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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JASON CARTER joined the The Take On for PART 2 because we had so much more tea to spill! We continue down the rabbit hole of celebrity gossip. We complete the conversation around Lea Michele. We break down Britney Spears and her conservatorship. All Hail Britney! We also talk reboots that don't need to come back like Glee, Will & Grace, Full House. We talk about how queer people are always put in a one dimensional box, and don't need to be defined by a narrow definition of what it means to be queer. And how people of color are making their own way in Hollywood during the #blacklivesmatter movement, and creating their own shows and taking up space. According to Jason, making it in Hollywood means having interests outside of your job.

More about Jason Carter:

For Jason J. Carter, personality is everything! This funny guy is known for being the life of the party, and for bringing the energy to the stage and small screen as a host; emcee and personality.

Originally from Albuquerque, Jason got his start in entertainment very early. As a child prodigy at 15, he landed his first job hosting the iconic teen dance show, “Dance, Dance, Dance, It’s A Teen Thing!’ for FOX. For seven seasons, Jason was a weekend staple in homes all across the Southwest. The show garnered massive ratings and earned Jason a 2001 Telly Award for Outstanding Television Broadcast. In addition to television, Jason has also lent his talents to radio. From Top 40 to Urban and even Adult Contemporary, he has cracked the mic and connected with thousands as an on-air personality in various markets. Jason's real passion lies in television. In the spring of 2006, Jason relocated to Los Angeles and embarked on his journey of becoming a world class TV personality. Since then, he has appeared on several networks, including: CBS; Entertainment Tonight; REELZ Channel; VH1; NBC; LOGOTV; HLN and CNN as well as producing and creating online content with the #Saywhat!? Webshow. Jason also hosts live events around the US for brands such as Nike; Macy's; Absolut and more. ​

In 2010, Jason was cast a member of the pit crew for the revolutionary EMMY Award winning LGBT competition show, “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” giving him global notoriety and the ability to connect with audiences across the world, and speak and host live events with thousands in attendance. In the summer of 2016, Jason joined The Young Turks, the largest YouTube news show in the world as correspondent and host of TYT's pop culture show PopTrigger allowing him to truly showcase his expertise.In the fall of 2018 Jason signed on to anchor and launch Entertainment Tonight's 24/7 digital news platform ET Live.

Jason's infectious and dynamic energy, outgoing personality and boy-next-door charm are just a few of the reasons why Jason is a one-of-a-kind talent.

FOLLOW JASON CARTER:

Instagram: @JasonCarterOfficial

Twitter: @jjcforever

Youtube: Jason Carter

JasonUnleashed.net

FOLLOW AMIR YASSAI:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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JASON CARTER joined The Take On to jump headfirst into celebrity news! We dive into the Kardashians and spill the tea on Lea Michele, and honey there is a pot of tea to spill! Jason Carter is a mainstay of RuPaul's Drag Race as a part of the "pit crew.:" He has made a name for himself in Hollywood with tenacity and grit. A self-made man is definitely a moniker that fits well on Jason. He understands how to work an outdated and Racist Hollywood for his own benefit, and that is something to admire. Jason is layered, kind, and found a way to come out the other side not jaded, which in Hollywood is damn near impossible to achieve.

More about Jason Carter:

For Jason J. Carter, personality is everything! This funny guy is known for being the life of the party, and for bringing the energy to the stage and small screen as a host; emcee and personality.

Originally from Albuquerque, Jason got his start in entertainment very early. As a child prodigy at 15, he landed his first job hosting the iconic teen dance show, “Dance, Dance, Dance, It’s A Teen Thing!’ for FOX. For seven seasons, Jason was a weekend staple in homes all across the Southwest. The show garnered massive ratings and earned Jason a 2001 Telly Award for Outstanding Television Broadcast. In addition to television, Jason has also lent his talents to radio. From Top 40 to Urban and even Adult Contemporary, he has cracked the mic and connected with thousands as an on-air personality in various markets. Jason's real passion lies in television. In the spring of 2006, Jason relocated to Los Angeles and embarked on his journey of becoming a world class TV personality. Since then, he has appeared on several networks, including: CBS; Entertainment Tonight; REELZ Channel; VH1; NBC; LOGOTV; HLN and CNN as well as producing and creating online content with the #Saywhat!? Webshow. Jason also hosts live events around the US for brands such as Nike; Macy's; Absolut and more. ​

In 2010, Jason was cast a member of the pit crew for the revolutionary EMMY Award winning LGBT competition show, “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” giving him global notoriety and the ability to connect with audiences across the world, and speak and host live events with thousands in attendance. In the summer of 2016, Jason joined The Young Turks, the largest YouTube news show in the world as correspondent and host of TYT's pop culture show PopTrigger allowing him to truly showcase his expertise.In the fall of 2018 Jason signed on to anchor and launch Entertainment Tonight's 24/7 digital news platform ET Live.

Jason's infectious and dynamic energy, outgoing personality and boy-next-door charm are just a few of the reasons why Jason is a one-of-a-kind talent.

FOLLOW JASON CARTER:

Instagram: @JasonCarterOfficial

Twitter: @jjcforever

Youtube: Jason Carter

JasonUnleashed.net

FOLLOW AMIR YASSAI:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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KRISTEN GRIFFITH-VANDERYACHT joined The Take On! Looking for laughs? Fun? You've come to the right place! Kristen and I will dive into the world of shooting a Netflix show with as large a production value as The Big Flower Fight. We also discussed what it is like being a person of color on Broadway and the systemic racism that is very prevalent in the Broadway industry. We dissect ways to unravel racism and how to approach finding your unique place in the entertainment industry.

More about Kristen Griffith-VanderYacht:

Kristen Griffith-VanderYacht specializes in the creation of unique floral arrangements that celebrate enchanting flowers and natural beauty. Kristen Griffith-VanderYacht is the owner and creative director of Wild Bloom by Kristen Griffith-VanderYacht. His career began in New York City where he worked for some of the top designers in the industry. Since opening his own studio, his flowers have been in major publications across the US, including Martha Stewart Weddings, Traditional Home Magazine, and The Knot, and seen on Good Morning America and E! Network. His flowers for actress Julianne Hough were featured on the front cover of People Magazine.

Kristen describes his design philosophy as a combination of editorial with a sensibility for distinctive and organic perspectives. He has an exquisite and rich design eye which has helped to transform the role that florals play in weddings and events. In addition to his extensive portfolio, his studio also provides private classes and workshops for emerging floral artists and enthusiasts.

Kristen views floristry as a gateway to a happier more sustainable life that focuses on bridging the gap between nature and modern living. He continues his work towards elevating the artistry of floral design as a fine art while expanding his design portfolio to include gardening, house plants and home decor.

Wild Bloom design services are available worldwide for weddings, events, workshops, private classes, advertising campaigns, product shoots and fashion featured in print and digital publications.

FOLLOW KRISTEN GRIFFITH-VANDERYACHT:

Instagram: @kristengvy

Find out more about Wild Bloom here!

FOLLOW AMIR:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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JAI RODRIGUEZ joined The Take On to discuss his experience playing Angel in Rent and being on one of the most famous shows EVER, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy….a show that changed Jai’s life, but also showed him the frustrations of being brown man in Hollywood. Despite the odds, Jai has created a niche for himself in Hollywood, and is an amazing example of leaning into his most authentic self.

More about Jai Rodriguez:

Jai Rodriguez has lent his voice to various projects in television, film, theater, and music, as well as social issues near and dear to his heart.

Starting his career at the age of 18, Jai landed the pivotal role of Angel in the massively successful musical Rent on Broadway. He went on to be part of the original “Fab Five” on Bravo’s Emmy-winning Queer Eye for the Straight Guy as the show’s resident ‘Culture Vulture’, being the guiding voice for all things culture and style. Alongside an Emmy, he went on to become a New York Times bestselling author, co-authoring Queer Eye for the Straight Guy: The Fab Five's Guide to Looking Better, Cooking Better, Dressing Better, Behaving Better, and Living Better.

Jai continued to showcase his talents in the cabaret scene, performing his one-man shows Xposed, My Truth, and Dirty Little Secrets in Los Angeles, Miami, San Diego and New York. He has acted on projects such as Nip/Tuck, How I Met Your Mother, Malibu Country, Grey’s Anatomy, Eastsiders, and Hulu’s Dollface.

Commercially, Jai has worked on campaigns with NOH8, Aids Walk, Project Angel Food, the Trevor Project and Love is Louder.

FOLLOW JAI:

Instagram: @JaiRodriguez

Twitter: @JaiRodriguez

FOLLOW AMIR:

Instagram: @amiryassofficial

Twitter: @AmirYass_

TikTok: @amiryassofficial

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