The Tragedy Academy

Summary:

In today’s episodes of The Tragedy Academy, Jay is joined by Brazilian actor and dancer Glauco Araujo. Glauco walks us through his life growing up in remote farmland in Brazil and how he turned his internal struggles into beautiful art for all to consume.

Key Points:

• Glauco tells his backstory growing up in a remote farm area in Brazil

Episode Highlights:

[02:23] Glauco tells us his experience growing up on a farm outside of Rio De Janeiro and his aspirations of wanting something more

[05:05] Glauco shares where his passion for dance was born. Starting with performing at Carnival, to working in the Paralympics, and also working for Modern Dance in Chicago.

[07:20] Glauco expresses his awe every time he visited Rio as a kid, comparing it to being in Times Square for the first time.

[09:47] Glauco gives us a rundown of his initial contact with a ballet which was getting his first job in a dance company in Rio where he was lucky enough to have a director who believed in him. Although he does admit that he hated ballet at first.

[12:49] Glauco begins to immerse himself into the ballet by studying its history which is where he discovered his favorite dancer, Rudolf Nureyev.

[17:37] Glauco reveals how he relates to Rudolph’s struggle; the diversity he had to overcome by being gay, the humble beginnings, his grit in following his dreams.

[19:36] Glauco shares the difficulties growing up in Brazilian culture that is traditionally machismo and suppressive, and evangelical.

[21:51] Gluaco expresses his relief and gratitude for finally living in a place that allows him to be free and is encouraged to live out his dreams.

[26:00] Glauco moves to New York where he feels a burning desire to do more than dance, something that allows the human connection.

[29:14] When moving to New York, a director sees Glauco perform and offers him a role in a short film about dancing.

[31:02] Glauco reveals that most opportunities that have come into his life have been through connecting with people.

[34:37] Staying out of trouble is Glauco's #1 advice to his younger self, but through this, he recognizes that his aggressions as a kid acted as a way to protect himself.

[38:46] Glauco and Jay discuss how people don’t change without new experiences which also means you cannot judge people without people having a chance to be confronted in what they believe in.

[40:30] Glauco confesses how therapy was his savior in overcoming and accepting past trauma. He feels that the only way to help others in seeking mental help is by setting the example.

[42:58] Charity: Disciple Actors Guild; helps performers pay their rent and bills

[46:01] Glauco shares heartwarming messages he has received on social media

[48:34] Jay and Glauco discuss the very prominent body dysmorphia in dance and how we judge ourselves to the worst degrees.

[51:00] Plugs: 2 short films that will be out in June. Actorsguild.org

[54:00] Outro

Connect with Glauco:

• Website

Tweetable Quotes:

• “I think the motivation should be to get out of t ...

In today’s episode, Jay interviews Demi Ramos; model, artist, and co-host of the podcast “It’s Real” with Jordan & Demi. Demi shares with us a few anecdotes about living in NYC and we dive into her music inspirations and aspirations.

Key Points:

• Demi admits to having an awkward phase while Jay reassures that it's necessary as an artist

Episode Highlights:

[01:30] Jay brings up one of Demi’s earliest music demos, Brooklyn Love. To which he compares it to a Smiths sound.

[04:27] Demi and Jay discuss the awkward phase experienced in youth

[06:30] Jay reveals his love affair with music, how he hears tones and melodies in music but not the lyrics. Asks the question, what does music invoke? Why do you feel it?

[10:14] Demi shares a solo project she had been working on through the pandemic.

[12:40] Demi walks us through her modeling career starting from age 18 and how it impeded on her music aspirations.

[15:38] Demi shares her story of almost getting kidnapped by getting lured into a hotel room.

[21:51] Demi gives us a behind the scenes on her “City Tings” Instagram story on the infamous bottle rocket butthole guy

[24:50] Demi uncovers where she feels her music comes from

[27:39] Demi and Jay conflict on social media and becoming a slave it while also wanting to remain your authentic self.

[29:19] Jay references the life of Mike Barker; how he started life with the goal of becoming a guidance counselor and after years of working in Hollywood still ended up in that role

[31:17] Jay and Demi speak about ongoing digital and the rise of digital art

[32:45] Demi reveals who her favorite podcast guest is

[34:47] Jay dives deep on the concept of struggle; what is it and how it builds resilience and empathy

[40:40] Jay admits to having a cognitive bias when a friend broke his front tooth

[42:04] Jay and Demi reflect on how we let the mind play tricks on us and how so often we allow worrying about the future to consume us.

[45:16] Demi shares her Hispanic heritage and the importance of involving yourself in the culture

Tweetable Quotes:

• "You can go from 0 to 100 with the right attitude" - Demi

Instagram | @demi_ramos

Instagram | @popdust Popdust

It's Real with Jordan & Demi | Listen Here!

Mentioned in this episode:

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In today’s episode, Jay talks to Sharon Green, a Reiki Master. She talks about her awakening and passion.

Episode Highlights:

• 3:30: Sharon talks about her interest in Astrology and how she started exploring horoscopes, sun, moon, and rising science.

3 Key Points:

1. Jay raises a concern that one is not allowed within a society to break down eastern philosophies that actually show us the controversy between religion and belief.

Tweetable Quotes:

• “Everything is written within our stars”- Sharon Green

In today’s episode, Jay speaks with Niloo, a full-time Actor, Vocalist, and Stand-Up Comic in Los Angeles. Her Persian roots make her a valuable vocalist in her musical projects, including the International Party Band “26 Orchestra” and her music collective called “A Tribe Called Love,” which brings popular and EDM music together with conscious lyrics.

Stay tuned after the show for a debut peek at an unreleased. collaboration track between Niloo and Musician & Producer Shahya. A lo fi soundtrack about Summer Flings

Episode Highlights:

· 02:00: Jay introduces Niloo, and they talk about welfare checks amongst friends and the importance of asking for each other’s well-being.

· 04:35: Jay refers to a TikTok video that he used to make with one of his old friends.

· 05:35: Niloo states that her favorite set was from the “Comedy Store.”

· 07:45: She expresses that humans tend to make everything more complex than it needs to be.

· 09:45: As per Jay, one should move on with life and be grateful as it makes life so much easier and amazing.

· 12:00: Jay praises Niloo, saying that he loves the fact that she is so authentic because the stuff she says throws everybody off guard.

· 14:15: Niloo says that grooming for her has a varying landscape based on need.

· 15:55: Jay points out that the ingrained thought processes that we have do not allow us to function like normal creatures.

· 18:15: According to Niloo and Jay, the word fear stops us from loving.

· 20:20: Jay asks Niloo that what brought her from Persia to America.

· 22:20: Niloo narrates her life journey right through her childhood till she moved to Los Angeles.

· 24:40: Jay curiously enquires from Niloo about her documentaries and films.

· 26:30: Niloo and Jay talk about the Persian/Indian extravagant and expensive weddings.

· 28:30: Jay recalls an incident where a cartoon character was about George Bush.

· 30:40: “A Tribe Called Love” was created of bringing the community together, says Niloo.

· 35:20: Jay suggests that to be a Comedian, one must have a certain amount of strife as it comes from suffering.

· 36:40: Niloo mentions it is sometimes good to point out someone’s behavior directly.

· 38:40: She says the older she got in her twenties; the confrontations were more heated.

· 40:35: Jay reiterates that what Niloo said about her telling people from friendship reflects her everyday actions.

· 40:55: Jay asks Niloo about her upcoming events.

· 42:50: Niloo and Jay discuss the need to do a separate show on animal rescue as Niloo is an Animal Rights Activist and Rescuer.

3 Key Points:

1. Niloo gives an example of how we deep shame about what nature gave us. She says we have shamed generations of men by telling them that it’s wrong for them to cry, and we forgot that crying is a biological function.

2. Niloo mentions that she and her partner are majorly producing the comedy show - “That’s Funny Niloo.”

3. Niloo expresses while talking about animal rescue rights. The words we use matter; we can’t move beyond a bit of level of consciousness without changing the words.

Resources Mentioned:

· Niloo: @Thats_Funny_Niloo: InstagramFacebook

· @A_Tribe_Called_Love: FacebookInstagram

· Book - “Love Came & Went” (Memoirs of a Persian American Love Addict): Amazon

Niloo Bio:

Niloo is a full-time Actor, Vocalist, and Stand-Up Comic in Los Angeles.

Her Persian roots make her a valuable vocalist in her musical projects, includin ...

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with the "Entertainment Guru," Mike Barker, for a profound discussion on personal branding and finding life's purpose. Delve into Mike's transformative journey from aspiring guidance counselor to becoming a beacon in the entertainment industry, overcoming racial discrimination and financial hurdles along the way. ??

Have you ever questioned your path in life or career? This episode takes you on a compelling narrative with Mike Barker, whose life story embodies resilience and strategic self-branding. Discover how Mike navigated through adversities, including racial discrimination and financial constraints, to rub shoulders with the likes of Beyonce and Cardi B. Host Jay Hicks, alongside Mike, unpacks the essence of gratitude, empathy, and emotional discipline in sculpting a successful life and career. This conversation is not just about the climb to success; it's about the values and personal brand that guide you through it. Tune in for an episode filled with real-life lessons and inspirational anecdotes. ??

Key Takeaways:

• ? Gratitude and empathy as essential tools for connecting with others.

Guest Bio: Mike Barker, renowned in the entertainment circle for his strategic mastery in sales, events, and media, has over 15 years of rich industry experience. Having worked with icons like Janet Jackson and Usher, Mike's expertise shines through his philanthropic efforts and his best-selling book "4 Strategies to Personal Branding and Marketing Strategies." His story is one of resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of success.

Guest Quotes:

• "If people don't give you the roses, you got to give it to yourself." - Mike Barker

CTA for Show: Don't miss out on the riveting stories and life lessons shared in The Tragedy Academy Podcast. Subscribe now, leave a review, and spread the word! Dive deep into the human experience with Jay Hicks and his guests as they share their journeys of triumph over tragedy. Be cool and keep learning. ???

CTA for Guest: Explore the world of personal branding with Mike Barker! Follow him on social media, visit his website for insightful resources, and dive into his best-selling book "4 Strategies to Personal Branding and Marketing Strategies." Connect with Mike and embark on your journey to success. ???

Conclusion: Join us next week for another enriching The Tragedy Academy Podcast episode. Immerse yourself in the stories of resilience, purpose, and success as we continue to explore the vast landscape of the human experience. Remember, your past does not define your future. Be cool and keep learning. See you in the next episode! ?

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• Website: https://www.thetragedyacademy.com

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks is joined by the versatile and vibrant Sarah Donna, a five-time Miss Michigan professional ring girl and circus trapeze artist. Discover an accomplished guest's humorous and humble side as she shares insights into her multifaceted life and the importance of authenticity. ??

Key Takeaways:

- ? [01:00] Sarah's journey to winning five Miss Michigan titles and her experience in various competitions.

Guest Bio:

Guest Quotes:

- "For every title I've won, I've learned that it's not the crown that defines you; it's the journey." - Sarah Donna

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In this moving episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks is joined by the inspirational Jazmine Brown of "Just Jazz". Together, they delve into Jazmine's personal narrative of overcoming adversity, utilizing her platform to empower and uplift others through authenticity. ??

**Engaging and Enticing Verbiage:**

Key Takeaways:

- ? [03:08] Jazmine's challenging start to life and her extended hospital stay.

**Guest Bio:**

**Guest Quotes:**

- ? [19:08] "For my doctor, I am supposed to be the sickest person; but I am one of the healthiest - sickest people." - Jazmine Brown

**CTA for Show:**

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**Conclusion:**

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**Resources & Affiliate Links:**

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In this compelling episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay Hicks opens the show with a powerful message about the podcast's mission to bridge social divides and create a judgment-free zone through candor and humor. Special guest Tapanga Lee, celebrated as the first fan of the show and noted for her open-mindedness, joins Jay. Together, they embark on a journey down memory lane in an unscripted and genuine conversation that resonates with listeners from all walks of life.

Key Takeaways:

• ? Tapanga discusses her first encounter with racism and reflects on her parents' teachings, offering a heartfelt insight into personal growth and societal challenges.

Guest Bio:

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Resources & Affiliate Links:

• PodPage

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Show and host information:

Join music producer and podcast host Jay Hicks along with co-host Gary DeFranco on The Tragedy Academy Podcast, a unique and insightful show delving into the human experience through the dual lens of tragedy and triumph. Each episode is a journey through inspiring stories from individuals who have faced adversity and emerged stronger, offering listeners a guide to finding purpose and meaning in their own lives.

The Tragedy Academy Podcast is more than just a series of stories; it's a lifeline to understanding and growth. Jay and Gary provide a blend of insight and wisdom gleaned from real stories and diverse perspectives, helping you navigate life's complexities and thrive. The show's ethos is about embracing all of life's lessons, recognizing that even in moments of tragedy, there are valuable insights and a path to balance.

Jay brings a dynamic background, from hands-on labor to a high-level career in financial services, while Gary's two decades of experience in producing non-scripted television lend a compelling narrative and production quality to the show. Their combined experiences create a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates with anyone looking for deeper understanding and a touch of humor in their journey.

The podcast's cover art—a tree of knowledge split between maroon and navy blue—beautifully symbolizes the duality of life and the growth that comes from embracing different perspectives. Each episode, Jay and Gary's humor and candid conversations act as the sunlight and water that nourish this tree, making the pursuit of knowledge not just a goal, but a joy.

**CTAs:**

- **Subscribe:** Don't miss an episode! Subscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

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Thank you for tuning into The Tragedy Academy Podcast. Your support means the world, and we hope each episode leaves you more informed, inspired, and ready to face life's challenges. Keep growing, keep learning, and be part of our journey to cultivate the tree of knowledge.

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