We have two guest today – Dylan Russell and Anthony “Chef” Jefferson. Dylan was the Associate Director at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Anthony is a poet, actor and writer who has worked with the Formerly Incarcerated People’s Performance Project. AJ just finished his one man show, The Bumpy Road Less Traveled, at the Marsh – Dylan directed AJ. Jake and I talk about their background, their work in the bay area and their projects in the future.

You can reach Dylan directly via Instagram: @dylanrussell613

You can reach Anthony directly via Instagram: @anthonymichaeljefferson

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

The Prince, Part II (Central Works)

Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Miss Thang! (Shotgun Players)

August 24-26

Brittany Sims (Episode 328) is in the reading

Ae’jay Antonis Marquis (Episode 165) is directing the reading

https://shotgunplayers.org/show/miss-thang/

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Antony & Cleopatra (SF Shakes)

July 25 – Sept 27

Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is in the show

https://sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/ac/

ROI (SF Playhouse)

Aug 6 – Sept 5

Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2026-2027-season/roi-return-on-investment/

The Fall Show (Shotgun Players)

Sept 25 – Oct 25

Reginald Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show

https://shotgunplayers.org/show/fall/

Manning (Crowded Fire)

Sept 5 – Sept 26

Sarah Jiang (Episode 367) is in the show

https://www.crowdedfire.org/manning/

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

South Pacific (6th Street Playhouse)

Aug 21 – Sept 20

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/shows/rodgers-hammersteins-south-pacific/

African Stew (Lorraine Hansberry Theatre / Magic Theatre)

Sept 10 – 27

Margo Hall (Episode 166) is in the show

ShawnJ West (Episode 146) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.lhtsf.org/african-stew

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

Peter Pan Goes Wrong (SF Playhouse)

Sept 26 – Nov 28

Terrance Smith (Episode 102) is in the show

Jomar Tagatac (Episode 352) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2026-2027-season/peter-pan-goes-wrong/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Jake and I next welcome Dr. Austin Dean Ashford – Latin Grammy nominated artist and playwright who’s one man show, Rap Monologues, is part of TheatreWorks’ New Works Festival – he next performs on Saturday (Aug 15th) at 8pm. Dr. Ashford has performed at the Kennedy Center and his show, Austin Dean Ashford Live, is on Amazon Prime Video. Jake and I talk about his background, his work in the bay area and where he’s going in the future.

You can reach Dr. Ashford directly via Instagram: @draustindeanashford

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

SHOWS:

The Prince, Part II (Central Works)

Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

Antony & Cleopatra (SF Shakes)

July 25 – Sept 27

Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is in the show

https://sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/ac/

Manning (Crowded Fire)

Sept 5 – Sept 26

Sarah Jiang (Episode 367) is in the show

https://www.crowdedfire.org/manning/

El Silencio Arido Del Agua or The Arid Silence of the Water (Brava)

Aug 5 – Aug 16

Virginia Blanco (Episode 238) is directing the show

Taylor Gonzalez (Episode 342) is the projectionist and programmer for the show

https://www.brava.org/all-events/lelsilencio-5bpzg

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

South Pacific (6th Street Playhouse)

Aug 21 – Sept 20

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/shows/rodgers-hammersteins-south-pacific/

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Veteran musical director Diana Lee joins us this Yay. Diana Lee has been featured at the Hotel Nikko, Brava Theatre, the Hillbarn Theatre and many more. Jake and I talk about her upbringing, her career and where she sees herself in the future.

You can reach Diana Lee directly via Instagram: @dianamusiclee

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

SHOWS:

The Prince, Part I & II (Central Works)

July 18 – Sept 6 (Pt I); Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

Newsies (Castro Valley Arts Foundation)

July 24 – Aug 9

Paul Plain (Episode 125) is in the show

https://cvartsfoundation.org/shows/

Antony & Cleopatra (SF Shakes)

July 25 – Sept 27

Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is in the show

https://sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/ac/

Manning (Crowded Fire)

Sept 5 – Sept 26

Sarah Jiang (Episode 367) is in the show

https://www.crowdedfire.org/manning/

El Silencio Arido Del Agua or The Arid Silence of the Water (Brava)

Aug 5 – Aug 16

Virginia Blanco (Episode 238) is directing the show

Taylor Gonzalez (Episode 342) is the projectionist and programmer for the show

https://www.brava.org/all-events/lelsilencio-5bpzg

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

South Pacific (6th Street Playhouse)

Aug 21 – Sept 20

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/shows/rodgers-hammersteins-south-pacific/

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

It’s a double Yay, since we did one yesterday. Our guests today are Max Tachis & Roneet Aliza Rahamim, a married couple who are also two talented actors, who have worked with City Lights Theatre, Golden Thread and Los Altos Stage Company, among others. Jake and I talk about their upbring, how they met, what’s it like working together on stage and their future.

You can reach Max directly via his Instagram: @maxdoesnthaveig

You can reach Roneet directly via her Instagram: @roroiii

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

SHOWS:

The Prince, Part I & II (Central Works)

July 18 – Sept 6 (Pt I); Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

Newsies (Castro Valley Arts Foundation)

July 24 – Aug 9

Paul Plain (Episode 125) is in the show

https://cvartsfoundation.org/shows/

Antony & Cleopatra (SF Shakes)

July 25 – Sept 27

Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is in the show

https://sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/ac/

El Silencio Arido Del Agua or The Arid Silence of the Water (Brava)

Aug 5 – Aug 16

Virginia Blanco (Episode 238) is directing the show

Taylor Gonzalez (Episode 342) is the projectionist and programmer for the show

https://www.brava.org/all-events/lelsilencio-5bpzg

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

South Pacific (6th Street Playhouse)

Aug 21 – Sept 20

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/shows/rodgers-hammersteins-south-pacific/

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Carlos Aguirre is our next guest on The Yay. He is the four and latest member of the rap group Felonious that we’ve interviewed on The Yay. We talk about his upbringing, his involvement in Felonious, his theatre background and where he sees himself in the future.

You can reach Carlos directly via Instagram: @emceeinfinite

You can listen to his music here: emceeinfinite.bandcamp.com/album/lykyk

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. Congrats to Charles Blads Barbershop for winning the Best of 2026 BusinessRate Award! I get my hair cut by Charles Blades every month and I’ve always enjoyed the experience. Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

The Prince, Part I & II (Central Works)

July 18 – Sept 6 (Pt I); Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

Newsies (Castro Valley Arts Foundation)

July 24 – Aug 9

Paul Plain (Episode 125) is in the show

https://cvartsfoundation.org/shows/

Antony & Cleopatra (SF Shakes)

July 25 – Sept 27

Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is in the show

https://sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/ac/

El Silencio Arido Del Agua or The Arid Silence of the Water (Brava)

Aug 5 – Aug 16

Virginia Blanco (Episode 238) is directing the show

Taylor Gonzalez (Episode 342) is the projectionist and programmer for the show

https://www.brava.org/all-events/lelsilencio-5bpzg

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

South Pacific (6th Street Playhouse)

Aug 21 – Sept 20

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/shows/rodgers-hammersteins-south-pacific/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

The Yay is back and we have Phoenix Song and Monique Miyake, a couple who are performing their piece, A Thousand Mothers Collecting the Bones: A Theatre and Music Performance of Grief and Praise. This performance is a celebration of the life of their 17 year old son who lost his life to suicide. Jake and I talk with the two about their artistic upbringing, their relationship, and how they came to take a tragedy and tell an engaging story of survival, coping and remembrance.

This performance is on July 25th & October 30th at the La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley – the link is here for tickets and more information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-thousand-mothers-collecting-the-bones-tickets-1989618442320?fbclid=IwY2xjawTIcUxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFNVzFGNThOcHpxSnZqMlRkc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkrQCZ9N0ai6Es4WHNVGS9TBkARE9YtuapyJx8r3QTpPisZks-nJMAI15xkn_aem_rAkXbR4GCs7NYBOYdThZ7w

Phoenix Song can be reached directly via their website: www.phoenixsongmusic.com

Phoenix can also be reached via Instagram: @phoenixsongrises

You can learn more about Monique via their website: https://moniquemiyake.com

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

SHOWS:

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

LAST SHOW TOMORROW!

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

The Prince, Part I & II (Central Works)

July 18 – Sept 6 (Pt I); Aug 1 – Sept 6 (Pt. II)

Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in Part II

Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) wrote and directed the show

https://centralworks.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

Julius Caesar (Marin Shakes)

Aug 14 – Sept 13

Jon Tracy (Episode 169) is in the show

Brady Morales-Woolery (Episode 305) is in the show

Dave Garrett (Episode 123) is in the show

Ray Archie (Episode 365) is the sound designer

David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is the intimacy coordinator

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/julius-caesar/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Eureka Day (City Lights Theatre)

Sept 24 – Oct 18

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show

Jonathan Spector (Episode 280) wrote this Tony winning play

https://cltc.org/event/eureka-day/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Sarah Jiang is our next guest on The Yay. I had the pleasure of seeing her perform as Augustias in The House of Bernarda Alba. Jake and I talk to this wonderful actress about her upbringing, her work in the bay and where she sees herself in the future.

You can contact Sarah directly via Instagram: @thatsarahjiang

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Wynne Chan (Episode 327) is performing at Mandarin and Cantonese songs at Martuni's in San Francisco

July 11

https://www.restaurantji.com/ca/san-francisco/martunis-/

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Our next guest is Lisa Marie Rollins, a freelance director, writer and new play developer. She has been a writing fellow with Hedgebrok, Djerassi, SF Writers Grotto, CALLALOO London, VONA, Just Theatre Play Lab and Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency. Her last featured work was Kara, directed by Elizabeth Carter, back in 2023. Jake and I talk about Lisa’s upbringing, her playwrighting work and where she sees herself in the future.

You can contact Lisa Marie directly via Instagram: @lisamarie_9

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Ray Archie is our next guest on this Wednesday Yay – Ray is the Chief Executive Officer of Music Is My First Language (MiMFL) – it’s an international lifestyle brand and musical collaborative dedicated to inspire positive social change through sustainable music education. Ray is also the Principal Sound Alchemist of Brooklyn Sound Lab. Jake and I talk to Ray about his upbringing, more about MiMFL and why he created it, and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Ray directly via his Instagram: @rayarchie

You can also learn more about the Brooklyn Sound Lab via their website: https://brooklynsoundlab.com

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: Tom Earlywine’s GoFundMe Page

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

We bring in another member of Felonious to the Yay podcast – Tommy Soulati Shepherd is an actor, rapper and teacher at Oakland School for the Arts. Jake and I talk about Tommy’s upbringing, his work with Felonious, and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Tommy directly via Instagram: @emceesoulati

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

The Gull (Shotgun Players)

Staged Reading: June 22, 23 & 24

Fred Pitts (Episode 256) is in the show

https://shotgunplayers.org/show/gull/

Staged Reading: Sisters Matsumoto, by Phillip Kan Gotanda

Contemporary Asian Theatre Scene

June 19 & 20

https://www.catsasiantheaterscene.org

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)