Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this Unscripted and Unrehearsed, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.

This week I’m discussing my journey as an actor and the books that have formed me.  Starting off with reviewing the week. Worst Super Bowl in History. THE HALF TIME SHOW and revenue numbers over the past five years thanks to a post by Team Puerto Ricoo on Instagram. Toñita makes an appearance. The metaphor message to his younger self. FBI raided Georgia elections. What you can do to get prepared by election day. James Van Der Bek and Chadwick Boseman. Plus the International Toy Fair Kicked off this weekend at The Jacob Javitz Center

TOPIC 1: Questions I get all the time… Why become an actor? What kind of actor are you? Where did you study?

TOPIC 2: What makes a great actor? What is acting? Meisner said: “It takes twenty years”. Reading, Cultural, Travel, Drinking, Eating.

TOPIC 3: Read these books…
* By Uta Hagen: Respect for Acting and Challenge for the Actor.
* By Sanford Meisner: Sanford Meisner on Acting
* By Stanislavski: An Actor Prepares
* By Ivana Chubbuck: Power of the Actor
* By Seth Barrish: An Actors Companion

NOW YOU TELL ME:
* Have you thought about getting into acting?
* Would you like to take a class?
* Do you even care… No judgements.

UNTIL NEXT TIME:
* If you made it this far… Thank you!
* Drop a Comedy and Tragedy 🎭 emoji in the comments.
* Remember like, share and subscribe.
    * If you’re watching, hit that bell icon.
    * If you’re listening, rates are great, downloads is better.

SUPPORT: I’m trying to keep stay ads free. Consider supporting my pod. Join Patreon and follow on Buzzsprout. You’ll get early access to special posts. Shout outs and invites. Behind-the-scenes content no one else sees. Live video chats with me via Zoom and more!

Head over to my Patreon for more of this episode like which actors inspire me and my favorite acting books are.

—————————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media ——————————

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Check out this bonus segment on the Empty Netters Controversy.

I first heard about it from Nacia Walsh, actor/story teller/hockey mom, who I started following because of Heated Rivalry. Her post gutted me. I thought we got “got” by Empty Netters. I had to know the truth. 

Here is the Out Sport article.

Empty Netters responded…

Nacia’s response to the response. 

My take…

Dan Powers explains what he said after only a quick view that he didn’t finish. Their initial reaction was used as proof of fake support/allyship. OutSport and their friend were/are maybe feeling a type of way because Empty Netters blew up. As far as I know OutSport or hasn’t done anything to show support of Heated Rivalry. I feel like Nacia isn’t willing to give Empty Netters the benefit of the doubt. 

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

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Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

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Welcome back to the pod! I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this Unscripted and Unrehearsed, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.

Reviewing the week: The 68th Annual 2026 Grammys, Bad Bunny Wins BIG! Brown shirts who killed Alex Pretti named, Jesus ‘Jesse’ Ochoa and Raymundo ‘Ray’ Gutierrez! Brown shirts ain’t gettin paid! Racist video of the Obamas! Cast of Schitt’s Creek Photo.

TOPIC 1: The Hollanov Effect! Watching their evolution. A master class lesson. The Love Story. Ilya and Shane’s evolution over ten years. Kip and Scott’s story as well. Having that passion in our lives.

TOPIC 2: The Tierney/Reid Effect! Jacob Tierney and Rachel Reid both inspired me in my vision and writing for LAST CALL. LGBTQ artists telling our stories. LAST CALL Reboot. Goldie Jones shout out!

TOPIC 3: Homophobes or Allies: No homophobic rants?! Haven’t seen negative rants? With how things go viral. Empty Netters! What Chaos Pod. Other Allies?

NOW YOU TELL ME: Have you watched and if so, how many times? How do you feel… how has the show affected you? Did you even like the show?! Do you even care… No judgements.

UNTIL NEXT TIME: If you made it this far… drop a a hockey player emoji in the comments. Black hair for Shane, Blond for Ilya or Brown for Scott! If you’re watching : remember like and subscribe. If you’re listening : feel free to rate but download is even better. It just helps grow the pod.

BONUS: Check out my take on the Empty Netters Controversy. 

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

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Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

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Reviewing the past few weeks: Renée Good, Alex Pretti, Keith Porter, Killed by ICE,  Mark Ruffalo at the Golden Globes.

Disclaimer: These tips are for informational purposes based on immigrant rights resources and do not constitute legal advice.

TOPIC 1: Know your rights! Mayor Mamdani video: Do Not Open Your Door: If ICE agents come to your home, you do not have to open the door unless they have a warrant signed by a judge (not an administrative warrant) and passed under the door. Exercise the Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions about your birth place or immigration status. State, "I am exercising my right to remain silent". Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer first. Refuse Search: If agents do not have a signed warrant, you can refuse to let them in. Show "Red Cards": You can display a "Know Your Rights" (Red Card) to express your rights if you do not feel comfortable speaking.

TOPIC 2: Safety Precautions and Preparedness: Create a Safety Plan: Identify emergency contacts, prepare child care documents, and keep important papers (passports, birth certificates) in a safe, accessible place. Document the Interaction: If it is safe to do so, record the interaction on your phone. Do Not Run or Lie: Stay calm, do not run or fight, and do not provide false documents or information. If You Are Detained: You have the right to a lawyer. Do not discuss your case with anyone but your attorney.

TOPIC 3: What to Do in Specific Scenarios: Stopped on the Street: Ask if you are free to leave. If yes, walk away calmly. Stopped in a Vehicle: Pull over, turn on the interior light, show your license and registration, and keep your hands visible. If Arrested: Remain silent and contact an immigration attorney immediately.

TOPIC 4: Reminder for the POC / LGBTQ+ Communities: We are sitting this out.
/ Allow our non melanin friends, families and neighbors to continue to do the work. / Support them when and where ever you can, safely! / Shop local whenever you can!

NOW YOU TELL ME: Have you seen the killings? How have you been affected? Do you even care… No judgements.

UNTIL NEXT TIME: If you made it this far… drop a FIST UP emoji in the comments. If you’re watching : remember like and subscribe. If you’re listening : feel free to rate but download is even better. It just helps grow the pod.

BONUS: January 12 Ordered Books! January 14 Nat Org House Day. January 15 National Bagel Day. January 17 Daniel Radcliffe aka Harry Potter. January 18 Renée Alexander aka Maxine, Living Single. January 26 Lego Crocks ~ Drop February 16. January 26 Dog Attack, MTA, Metro North, LIRR  Rules. January 27 NYC snow report ~ Washington Hts & Inwood win!

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

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Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

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Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa. This is Unscripted and Unreleased, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.

OK, so, this week we’re talking about setting intentions for 2026. We’re NOT doing resolutions. We’re working on and headed towards accomplishments! But first…

Reviewing the week: HIELO (ICE) gets trolled! New Orleans witches casting spells. 60min has fallen! Admin allegedly pressured to kill a story. Two days off. Spent time with my kids. Sad news for BOOTS S2. Heated Rivalry! Books by Rachel Reid. Series by Jacob Tierney.

Reviewing the Year: Finished writing LAST CALL reboot. Completed the pitch deck. I launched Unscripted & Unrehearsed pod. I ran for and won a seat on the board of my union. Got my own place again. I completed business plans for two projects I’m working on. Drafts and scripts for season one of another pod is done.

TOPIC 1: I don’t believe in New Year Resolutions! Now, I reflect on the year. I begin setting intensions and new goals. I have a notebook where I jot down a list of the things I’d like to experience or have.

TOPIC 2: Setting intentions… Where to start? Break down the steps you’ll need. Take all of your notes and create a to-do list. This is where my calendar comes in. Work on the plan. Journaling will also help with setting intensions…

Believe in yourself 100%!
DO NOT COMPARE YOURSELF!

A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed by action becomes reality!

TOPIC 3: Giveaway Postponed! I decided to hold off… There wasn’t any interaction.

Until next time… THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I want to express my deepest gratitude for everyone who tuned in to watch. It’s meant a lot. If you made it this far… comment a party face emoji 🥳

CORRECTION: I said Steve Cannell. I meant Sean Cannell. I also fixed the links that were wrong. So chk’em out.

I’m taking some time off but I’ll be back soon. If you’re watching : remember to like and subscribe. If you’re listening : feel free to rate, but download is even better. it just helps grow the pod.

🎉HAPPY NEW YEAR🎉

BONUS:
* My Favorite Podcasts 2025
    * Rachel Maddow
    * NPR’s Up First
    * Think Media Podcast
    * This Week, with George Stephanopoulos
    * Diary of a CEO
    * Playing on Air
    * Show People Pod

* Pods I Listen To Regularly
    * PIVOT Kara & Scott
    * Prof. G. Markets
    * Aware and Aggravated
    * House of Halliwell
    * Sniffles Cruising Confessional
    * SCOTUS Oral Arguments

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

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Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

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Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this is Unscripted and Unreleased, where I give you my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.
This week’s episode was to be dedicated to all of you. The AMA “ASK MIKE ANYTHING” episode! I say “was” because I didn’t get a single question from anybody. So, I’ve decided to explore how to start with creating content.  But first…

Reviewing the week.
Rob Reiner death, he starred in All in the Family. Directed This is Spinal Tap 1984, Stand by Me 1986, Princess Bride 1987, Misery 1990, A Few Good Men 1992. Anthony Geary death, aka Luke Spencer on General Hospital. Remembering "Luke and Laura".  My favorite Soaps were, The Young and the Restless, As The World Turns, Days of our Lives, General Hospital. Was into The Bold and the Beautiful, Guiding Light and Search for Tomorrow. Gil Gerard death, aka Buck Rogers.

I met Robert Downy Jr.. aka Iron Man. Woman sues IRS in order to claim pets as dependents. National Ugly Sweater Day! Friday December 19th. 3rd Friday in December! Send pics of you in yours!

TOPIC 1: Deciding the kind of content to make. Maybe Educational/Tutorial content where you teach a course, make how to videos or DIYs. Informative content like news, interviews or opinion pieces. Review videos where you review everything from tech/gear, travel/places or fashionand accessories.

TOPIC 2: Scripting your content. Write down your ideas. Each idea can branch out into many niche topics. Use your device’s notes app. Carry a notebook if you want.

TOPIC 3: Tech to get you started. Lights help set the tone. Lighting design placement. Cameras, Mobile device versus digital camera. Camera settings. Studio setup. On the go shooting. Audio is king or Queen! Noise cancellation magic! Kinds of mics you can use. Upgrades can lead to discounts!

GIVEAWAY:
I’m gifting FREE tech to help get you started? Since no one sent in questions for the giveaway, I've decided to select one random recipient from Facebook, Instagram and Youtube to receive one of the three gifts.

THE GIFTS:
Bundle A: One Lightening receiver with one mic, wind muffler, and a Magsafe carabiner mounted phone tripod. 

Bundle B: One Lightening receiver with one mic, wind muffler, and a Magsafe carabiner mounted phone tripod. 

Bundle C: One USBC receiver (with Lightening adapter), 2 mics with 2 wind mufflers.

Until next time…
If you made it this far… comment with a Santa emoji. If you’re watching : remember to like and subscribe. If you’re listening : feel free to rate, but download is even better. it just helps grow the pod.

LINKS:
Sean Cannell - Think Media:

Flossy Carter:

ChatGPT shadowband Prompt: If I wanted to plan my posts to reach the everyone who follows me on Facebook and Instagram, how can I figure out if I am being shadowband?

BONUS: ContentCreator.com 

Great investment!

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

FACEBOOK : FAN PAGE : INSTAGRAM : YOUTUBE : BLUESKY : 

Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

Support the show

Try this to physically and spiritually prepare for the new year.

Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa. This is Unscripted and Unreleased, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.

New year, New You, New Me! Out with the old and in with the new. You don’t have to do all of this in one shot. Start tomorrow, the 15th then work your way to the end of the month. Your goal is to be done by December 30th so you have the 31st free for celebration… But first…

Reviewing the week. Health insurance relief. Charlie Brown Christmas celebrated 60th anniversary on Tuesday. Shout out to Chewy! Mamdani posts “Your Rights” Video. I met Admiral Janeway and I had a credit card hack!

TOPIC 1: Understanding Chanukah, The Miracle of Lights 🕎… Imagine your phone is at 10%. You have no charger or a way to charge, yet… the power lasts for 8 day!

OUT WITH THE OLD…

TOPIC 2: Cleaning out wardrobe. Pull everything out of your closets… sort by wear regularly, sometimes and haven’t worn in over a year.

TOPIC 3: Cleaning out house stuff. Pull out everything… sort by things you use regularly, sometimes and haven’t used in over a year.

TOPIC 4: Cleaning out the house. Starting from furthest point from the entrance of your home. Burning Sage aka Smudging.

TOPIC 5: Spiritual cleansing of self. Haircut: Get a fresh cut, mani/pedi, groom from top to bottom. Bath: Get some holy water. Get to a botanica. Release all negativity.

TOPIC 6: Cleaning out your devices. Starting with cleaning out the CACH files. Find videos on Youtube.

Now you tell me…
* Whats your “out with the old, in with the new” look like??
* Do you recycle unused items?
* Do you make donations?
* Do you even care… No judgements.

* Next week is the AMA episode.
* Still time to send your questions.
* Everyone who submits a question will automatically entered.

GIVEAWAY…
* Wanna be a content creator?
* Want some FREE tech to start?
* I’m gonna help you to go for it!
* Enter to win.
    * Lightening receiver, 1 mic with wind muffler, and a Magsafe carabiner mounted phone tripod.
    * USBC receiver (with Lightening adapter) and 2 mics with 2 wind mufflers.
* How to enter…
    * Like, follow and subscribe,
    * Instagram, Bluesky, Youtube.
    * Then send your question.
    * Ask anything, advice, etc.
    * You have until midnight EST.

Until next time…
* If you made it this far… comment with the Menorah emoji
* If you’re watching : remember like and subscribe.
* If you’re listening : feel free to rate but download is even better.
* It just helps grow the pod.

LINKS:
* Krispy Kreme:
    * https://www.krispykreme.com/promos/peanuts-christmas
* Know Your Rights Video:
    * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tq-KqQXy4LE

HAPPY 🕎 CHANUKAH

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

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Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

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Here are some tips that will help you take a leap of faith! What are you waiting for? Get to it!!!

Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this is Unscripted and Unreleased, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced.

Fear of failure is the number one reason why some won’t take the a chance on themselves. Here’s my take on getting past your fear of failure. But first…

Reviewing the week.
Leticia Jacobo… 24 native American. Born in Phoenix, AZ.. Arrested for allegedly driving with a suspended license. Family was told she couldn’t be released because ICE was on the way to pick her up for… wait for it… deportation!!!

Latino US NAVY Sailor detained! Norfolk PD & ICE agent ordered Navy Officer, who was in uniform to show ID. Officer Produced his military ID. ICE agent told him his ID wasn’t sufficient then asked for his passport!

Now There’s Backlash!? Some Repubs pushing back. POC clearly targeted. White immigrants are getting a pass. Some are sharing that they’re tired of the bad press. Horrible party image! First MTG leaving now Nancy Mace threatens to resign! Not seeking re-elections.

Campbell Soup Controversy! Leaked audio from meeting where former VP, Martin Bailey was heard saying their food for poor people. That it’s unhealthy, the meat is bio engineered and the chicken is 3D printed.

Target’s Disrespectful Gift Bags. People waited in freezing temperatures for a ginormous holo/mylar bag that was filled with Uno game, Elf makeup, GENZ shampoo and other “crap” just pulled from shelves. What a disgrace!!!

Obsessed with... Logic, Ren, Prof

Identifying and accept fear… becoming vulnerable: Opening yourself up. To experiences. Books, Film, Food. Culture, Culture, Culture!

Taking the leap!: Creating your own opportunities. Take a class. Online courses. Started talking to friends. FUCK IT! JUST START!

Now you tell me… Get vulnerable with me.
* How/When have you felt the most vulnerable?
* What is the thing you’re unsure about taking a leap for?
* What could you do today that would help you to get closer to that goal?
* Do you even care… No judgements.

GIVEAWAY…
* Wanna be a content creator?
* Want some FREE tech to start?
* I’m gonna help you to go for it!
* Enter to win.
    * Lightening receiver, 1 mic with wind muffler, and a Magsafe carabiner mounted phone tripod.
    * USBC receiver (with Lightening adapter) and 2 mics with 2 wind mufflers.
* How to enter…
    * Like, follow and subscribe,
    * Instagram, Bluesky, Youtube.
    * Then send your question.
    * Ask anything, advice, etc.

Until next time…
* Let me leave you with this. Everything you want to accomplish is on the other side of fear and doubt.
* https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17hxytBKwo/?mibextid=wwXIfr
* If you made it this far… comment with a speaking  emoji.
* If you’re watching : remember to like and subscribe.
* If you’re listening : feel free to rate, but download is even better.
* it just helps grow the pod.

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

FACEBOOK : FAN PAGE : INSTAGRAM :

Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

Support the show

Welcome back to the pod. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this is Unscripted and Unrehearsed, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experiences.

In NYC, we’ve got increases comin! We’re lookin at a rent increases, MTA fare hikes beginning in the new year and of course insurance premiums are skyrocketing! But first…

Reviewing the week. Washington Hts is the Wild Kingdom! Hawk outside my window! An opossum in the park! Heart shaped Puerto Rican flag balloon at the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade? AI Bad Bunny balloon!! Trooper Update! Digital ID Follow-up. FedEx Hacked?! Porch Pirates on steroids! Blackout and Black Friday/Cyber Monday. Buy Now/Pay Later. Lovecraft Country! Me super late to the party.

TOPIC 1: NYC Rents going up! Oct 2025 to Sept 2026 3% on one year leases and 4.5% on two year leases. Can Mamdani do anything? Stabilized rents benefit. Won’t happen over night. Maybe set the ground work.

TOPIC 2: Bus and Subway!!! Fare goin up to $3.00. I remember 50¢ fare. Parents remember 5¢. OMNY replacing Metrocard by end of the year! DO NOT SCAN DEBITS!  DO NOT SCAN PHONES!

TOPIC 3: Maybe Back to No Health Insurance? And on top of rent and transportation increases… Premiums for some skyrocketing. Congress to meet.

Now you tell me… Is your rent going up? How much is your insurance going up? Double? Triple? Where are you going cutting? Gettin a p/t job? Do you even care… No judgements.

Until next time… If you made it this far… comments with a flying money emoji. Remember to DM me your questions for the “Ask Mike Anything” episode.

If you’re watching : remember like and subscribe.
If you’re listening : feel free to rate but download is even better. It just helps grow the pod.

—————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

FACEBOOK : FAN PAGE : INSTAGRAM : YOUTUBE : BLUESKY :  NEWSLETTER

Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

Support the show

Welcome back to podcast. I’m Mike Dreyden Figueroa and this is Unscripted and Unrehearsed, where I share my take on events of the day, things that I’ve seen, heard and experienced over the past week.

It's not a march. Not a protest. No signs necessary. From November 25th to December 2nd started a week where we, people of color pull our dollars out of the system in order for the economy to feel the weight of our absence. But first… 

TOPIC 1: Reviewing the week. CHESS Opening Night! Celebrities i scanned in: Anna Navarro, Anna Wintour, Michael Coors, Mark Strong, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Sara Bareilles, Stephen Schwartz. EEWS: Debra Messing. Celebrity Friends: Pepper Mint, Jeigh Madjus, Michael Uri and Ryan Spahn, Andre Ward. Also... The viral photo guy sitting crying! The Cash Back Scam, The Texas Trooper / Footballers and Florida Man Friday... Naked TikTok Challenge?

TOPIC 2: The mass blackout isn’t just about black people. It’s about all of us, the 99%. Buy nothing that doesn’t circulate back into our communities. Support small and local businesses. Support black, brown, POC and LGBTQ. Prevent spike spending. Purchase goods before and after. Helps with sustained impact. Keeps our money out of mega businesses. No, not canceling the holidays. Shifting power. Every dollar spent is a vote for the world we live in.

TOPIC 3: Masked Men men indiscriminately abducting people… It’s distressing to see. Times Square tourist, old people. Children left on the street without anyone. Priests and Clergy being shot with pellets?! It’s never been about the worst of the worst.

TOPIC 4: Can you prove who you are? Once I turned 18, I registered then got my learners permit. My mother would freak out whenever I’d leave it behind. Often forget my shit. Wallet, Keys, Phone mantra. Does it even matter if you can scream that you’re a citizen?

TOPIC 5: Anything can happen… Riding the subway can sometimes be crazy! * Driving on the FDR or the West Side Highway… Anything. And that’s why I ALWAYS have my ID on me… 

NYS Real ID. * https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/enhanced-or-real-id 

US Passport. * https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html 

What about you? Do you carry your ID all the time? Do you have a real ID, a passport or both? Do you even care… No judgements. 

Also DM me your questions for the AMA “Ask Mike Anything” episode coming soon. 

Until next time… If you made it this far… drop ID card emoji in the comments. If you’re watching : remember like and subscribe. If you’re listening : feel free to rate but download is even better. It just helps grow the pod. 

HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

 —————— Mike Dreyden Figueroa on Social Media —————— 

FACEBOOK : FAN PAGE : INSTAGRAM : YOUTUBE : BLUESKY :  NEWSLETTER

Thank you for joining me this week. If you'd like to shoot me a message about this week's episode, feel free to click here. ~Mike

Support the show