What Was I Made For?

What Was I Made For?

By Reynolds Studios Inc.EducationSelf-Improvement
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What Was I Made For? episodes

  • Shaun Blanks On Stage and Our Big Future Plan

    Shaun and Rachael Reynolds, hosts of 'What Was I Made For?', kick off their latest episode with a casual and humorous introduction, reminding listeners that they aim to inspire but aren't licensed therapists. They dive into the hectic preparations for an upcoming dance show, emphasizing the hard work and dedication of their students and teachers. Sean humorously discusses his nervousness and sweaty palms due to the volume of behind-the-scenes work still required.

    The discussion then veers into the ever-present struggles faced by creatives, including the constant sense of never being fully satisfied with one's work. They share experiences about the iterative nature of creative projects, using examples from famous music producers like Diplo and Charlie Puth, as well as their personal stories. The couple takes a light-hearted moment to discuss their drink choices for the day, adding a personal touch to the episode.

    In a significant announcement, Shaun and Rachael share their plan to take a break from the podcast over the summer. They intend to use this time to improve the podcast, book more guests, and create engaging content for the next season. They humorously acknowledge Rachel's tendency to start new projects and discuss their ambition of merging their professional talents to create a more comprehensive creative space for their dance school and podcast.

    The episode also features listener interactions, answering questions from their audience. They delve into episodes of stage fright and performance blunders, sharing personal stories to highlight that even experienced performers face challenges. Sean recounts a particularly embarrassing moment at VidCon, which serves as both a humorous anecdote and a lesson in pushing past one’s comfort zone.

    The couple wraps up the episode by discussing their lack of social media engagement and their plans to improve it over the summer. They also address the occasional awkwardness in podcasting, especially when ending interviews. Ultimately, they look forward to returning with fresh content and renewed energy in September. The episode is a blend of humor, personal reflections, and insights into the challenges and joys of creative work.

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    00:00 Welcome to 'What Was I Made For?'

    00:45 Podcast Banter and Multitasking

    01:52 Discussing the Upcoming Show

    04:15 Creative Struggles and Perfectionism

    11:38 Summer Break and Future Plans

    13:11 Listener Questions and Dreams for the Dance School

    16:55 Awkward Endings and Podcast Etiquette

    19:30 Handling Stage Fright and Blunders

    22:24 A Cringe-Worthy Performance at VidCon

    25:10 Lessons Learned from On-Stage Mistakes

    27:21 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    30 min
  • BONUS EPISODE Ashleigh Gray: Wicked Mishaps & Industry Insights

    In this hilarious bonus episode of 'What Was I Made For?' podcast, hosts Shaun and Rachael Reynolds chat with the fabulous Ashleigh Gray, known for her role in 'Wicked.' From Glinda's bubble getting stuck, to Ashleigh's mad dash back to the theatre mid-fajita, they recount side-splitting behind-the-scenes mishaps. Hear about the chaos of 'no fly' shows, the terror of being a standby, and the quirks of self-taped auditions.

    Plus, Ashley shares her journey with the cult hit 'Cool Rider', complete with audience sing-alongs and near-catastrophic balcony dancing. Packed with laughs and theatrical love, this episode is a must-listen for all theatre aficionados.

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    00:00 Welcome to 'What Was I Made For?'

    00:53 Bonus Episode Introduction

    01:21 Behind the Scenes of Wicked

    07:50 Standby Stories and Challenges

    14:18 The Love for Live Theatre

    21:48 Cool Rider: A Cult Classic

    26:08 Closing Remarks and Social Media

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    27 min
  • Ashleigh Gray: Following Her Joy & Defying Gravity

    Shaun and Rachael Reynolds welcome you to 'What Was I Made For?' – the podcast that inspires you to do what you love and prioritize happiness!

    This episode features the fabulously talented West End star, Ashleigh Gray, who’s best known for her role as Elphaba in ‘Wicked’. From tales of her dramatic childhood aspirations (think lawyer one day, singer the next) and her first theatrical experiences involving family sing-alongs, Ashleigh shares her path to musical theatre stardom with humor and charm. Listen in for a behind-the-scenes peek at life in the spotlight, her roller-coaster auditions for ‘Wicked’, and funny anecdotes about life on tour.

    Plus, find out why being a singing waitress might just be the ultimate side hustle for aspiring actors. Ashleigh also doles out heartfelt advice for anyone dreaming of a career in the arts. With bonus stories and plenty of laughs, this episode is a real treat for theatre fans and anyone who believes in following their dreams. Don’t miss out on the special bonus episode coming soon, filled with even more delightful tales from Ashleigh's theatrical adventures!

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

    00:55 Special Guest: Ashleigh Gray

    02:31 Ashleigh's Early Inspirations

    04:40 First Steps in Theatre

    10:02 Training and Education

    15:09 Breaking into the West End

    18:37 Life Beyond the Stage

    30:13 Mesmerized by Theatre

    30:54 Dreaming of Wicked

    32:48 Audition Journey

    35:02 Joining the Cast

    37:13 Challenges and Triumphs

    41:05 UK Tour and Injury

    50:43 Only Fools and Horses

    54:43 Advice for Aspiring Performers

    57:10 Finding Joy in Acting

    59:00 Closing Remarks

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    1 hr 2 min
  • Reynolds Rants: Mugs, Slimy Hands, and HelloFresh Confusion

    Shaun and Rachael Reynolds discuss their experiences and challenges in pursuing their creative careers in the podcast 'What Was I Made For?'. They explore the unexpected paths that led them to their current roles, share advice on self-motivation and creating your own opportunities, and emphasize the importance of kindness and positive interactions. The episode also features personal anecdotes, including Shaun's party experience at Frank Sinatra's old house and Rachael's heartfelt dance performance with a former student. The duo encourages listeners to think critically about their online behavior and their civic responsibilities, urging young people to vote and be conscious of their social media usage.

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    00:00 Introduction to Shaun and Rachael Reynolds

    00:05 Podcast Theme and Disclaimer

    00:48 Listener Feedback and Show Format

    02:15 Drink of Choice Segment

    03:26 Upcoming Merchandise Announcement

    04:04 Rachael's Career Journey and Reflections

    08:56 Funny Anecdote: The Sky Advert

    17:29 Adapting Dreams and Making Opportunities

    24:50 Reflecting on Career Aspirations

    26:08 Making Opportunities for Yourself

    27:21 Reynolds Rants: The Importance of Kindness

    31:23 Encouraging Young People to Vote

    33:55 Funny Delivery Story

    36:58 Debate on Social Media Age Limits

    42:39 Career Highlights and Memorable Moments

    48:47 Concluding Thoughts and Outro

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    50 min
  • Tommy Reynolds: Finding The Harmony In Photography & Fatherhood

    Join hosts Shaun and Rachael Reynolds on 'What Was I Made For?' as they delve into an electrifying episode featuring the dynamic Tommy Reynolds.

    Discover Tommy's exhilarating journey from shooting breathtaking photos in Iceland to navigating life-threatening encounters in Ethiopia. Listen in as Tommy candidly shares the highs and lows of balancing his thriving photography career with the joys and challenges of fatherhood.

    This episode promises thrilling stories, heartfelt insights, and essential advice for anyone juggling creativity and family life. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with inspiration, humor, and real talk!

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:51 Meet Tommy Reynolds

    01:37 The Story Behind the Podcast Artwork

    02:39 Tommy's Journey into Photography and Videography

    07:09 University Challenges and Creative Pursuits

    16:50 Finding Passion Amidst Bullying

    21:05 The Importance of Energy on Set

    22:46 Parental Reactions and University Experience

    28:58 Transition from Video to Photography

    32:57 Adventures and Challenges in Photography

    38:16 Balancing Parenthood and a Creative Career

    47:03 The Purpose of Visual Storytelling

    48:19 Conclusion and Farewell

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    50 min
  • Shawna Hamic: From Broadway Dreams to Breaking Barriers on Orange is the New Black

    In this episode of 'What Was I Made For?', hosts Shaun and Rachael Reynolds chat with the multifaceted Shawna Hamic, renowned for her roles in 'Orange is the New Black' and 'Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch.' Shawna shares her inspirational journey from a young aspiring florist to a celebrated performer on Broadway and Netflix, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's passion despite societal challenges. Listen in as she discusses her family's pivotal support, her significant performances, and the essential values of kindness and perseverance in the arts industry. This episode is filled with motivational anecdotes and valuable insights for young performers and anyone pursuing their dreams.

    Meet Shawna Hamic

    Today we have a very special guest, Shawna Hamic. And you may know her from one of Rach's favorite TV shows, Orange is the New Black....

    From Dreams of Floristry to Performing Arts

    Well, originally I wanted to be a florist...

    Supportive Family and Early Performances

    So support was just their belief above and beyond...

    Community College and Formative Years

    So when you said your parents, uh, support, what did their support look like?...

    Challenges in the Industry

    It actually changed my perception of being a big person...

    Breakthrough Role in 'Orange is the New Black'

    Even in Orange is the New Black, you mentioned Orange is the New Black....

    Sting’s Musical 'The Last Ship'

    Just going back to the Sting show. Uh, Shaun and I read something earlier that we wanted, we wanted to ask you about, is it true that...

    Dealing with Online Trolling

    For Orange is the New Black specifically, I'll share a little bit of the dark with you because why not?...

    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:

    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod 

    TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpod

    YouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod

    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]

    Hosted by: Shaun & Rachael Reynolds

    Music by: Black Prez & Shaun Reynolds

    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production

    Mentioned in this episode:

    This episode is sponsored by EVO by Audient. Click here for more information: https://evo.audio

    1 hr 8 min
  • The One About Mental Health with Shaun & Rachael Reynolds
    Join hosts Shaun and Rachael Reynolds in their engrossing podcast, "What Was I Made For?". This episode dives deep into their personal battles with mental health issues. Rachael shares her experience of overcoming obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and a discussion ensues on the therapeutic practices of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and engaging in supportive dialogue.
    Shaun shares his own struggle with persevering mental health issues, emphasizing the significance of communication and not enduring in silence. They motivate listeners to approach mental health issues as injuries to be attended to, with a keen understanding that therapy is not a 'one size fits all' solution.
    The episode takes a turn as it dives into a deeply personal battle with severe health anxiety. It gives a detailed account of the whirlwind journey from diagnosis and testing to reactions from loved ones, culminating in therapy discussions. It spotlights the complicated nature of mental health and the vast range of emotions it generates in those affected and their support system.
    An enlightening debate on the current state of mental health awareness in the educational system is covered, addressing the concern of whether enough is being done to support children in academic institutions. With an aim at a future where mental health is of equal importance, this episode provides a stepping stone towards that goal.
    The conversation then shifts to discussing the impact of social media on young individuals in today's digital world and proposes a contentious solution of limiting access to specific platforms until the age of 18. As educators, parents, or simply as someone wanting to gain insight into your wellness and mental health, this episode is a must-listen.
    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:
    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpodYouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod
    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]
    Hosted by: Shaun and Rachael Reynolds
    Music by: Black Prez and Shaun Reynolds
    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production
    47 min
  • Having The Dream But Not The Drive with Shaun & Rachael Reynolds
    Welcome to the latest episode of "What Was I Made For?" In this episode, your hosts Shaun and Rachael Reynolds navigate through interesting stories of adventures in teaching, event planning, and personal growth. They talk, Nala (their rescue dog), out-of-season Christmas tracks, and the challenges their individual businesses have thrown at them. They emphasise the importance of filtering out negative voices and commenting on the significance of learning from constructive criticisms.
    The hosts delve into a riveting conversation about their various life experiences. This includes Shaun offering insights from his YouTube days and addressing the necessity of coping with negative feedback online. Rachael intricately highlights the importance of utilizing constructive criticism for personal growth and improvement.
    They answer a listener's question about their family lineage, unearthing an underappreciated streak of creativity spanning everything from graphic design to baking and dance. They also have an engaging chat with Rach's Nana Pearl, recounting her inspiring journey of running a dance school despite numerous challenges. The trio then explores the interaction of job swapping and their respective responsibilities in their artistic fields.
    Adding a heartwarming touch, they bring a tale of love and care featuring Nala, a rescue dog. They share their endeavours in helping this adorable friend and her siblings. As the episode unfolds, our hosts field questions from listeners about the challenges of running a business and the role of artificial intelligence in their industry. They candidly stress the need for passion and drive for success, while dispelling fear regarding finance when initiating a business.
    Join us for a blend of fun, creativity, self-improvement tips, and surprising family history in this inspiring episode.
    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:
    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpodYouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod
    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]
    Hosted by: Shaun and Rachael Reynolds
    Music by: Black Prez and Shaun Reynolds
    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production
    32 min
  • Sophie Griffiths: Leveraging Social Media & Managing Your Mind
    Join 'What Was I Made For?' hosts, Shaun and Rachael Reynolds, as they delve into the soulful journey of Sophie Griffiths, a singer, songwriter and talented artist who turned her passion for music into a flourishing career. This episode is an inspiring tale of determination, resilience and the power of chasing your dreams. Sophie's transition from a shy teenager to a confident performer is a testament to her perseverance and the supports she gained along her journey.
    Sophie's discussion on dealing with anxiety and leveraging cognitive brain therapies will be enlightening to listeners dealing with similar issues. Covered in this episode are also the subjects of success beyond societal norms and expectations, and the significance of emotional intelligence in her personal growth.
    The episode also reveals Sophie's effective use of social media, particularly TikTok to boost her music career. Hear about her adventures during lockdown, viral trends she established, interactions with industry giants and the release of her vulnerable single that showcases a different side to her personality. This is not just an episode for aspiring artists, but anyone interested in personal development, mental health, and leveraging social media for success.
    Sophie's journey, her advice, anecdotes and the story behind her song, "Skin I'm In" makes this episode a not-to-miss adventure. Tune in for more soul-stirring stories every Wednesday on 'What Was I Made For?'.
    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:
    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpodYouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod
    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]
    Hosted by: Shaun and Rachael Reynolds
    Music by: Black Prez and Shaun Reynolds
    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production
    1 hr
  • Jess Bonwick: How To Become A Makeup Artist
    In this spirited episode of the What Was I Made For? podcast, Shaun and Rachael Reynolds sit with Jessica Bonwick, a rapidly rising star in the makeup artistry field. Starting from her initial career dreams in dance and singing, Jess explores her path to discovering her real passion in makeup. She dives deep into how the COVID-19 lockdown redirected her career journey and sparked a vibrant love for makeup artistry.
    Riveting aspects of this episode include Jessica's school years surprise shift to singing, a talent carefully concealed up to that point. She opens up about her decision to abandon the path when it ceased to bring her joy, redirecting her energy towards the world of makeup instead. This episode astounds with tales of self-discovery and pursuing one's heart's calling, despite unusual circumstances or sudden revelations.
    From her first foray into the industry, Jess maps her growth journey with pivotal moments that include attending a recognized makeup academy and leveraging social media. She clear-cut illustrates that passion paired with talent and dedication creates a compelling and successful professional journey.
    Further, Jess recalls her evolution from an inexperienced beginner to a confident professional, scoring prestigious gigs such as the Brit Awards and GAP. She advises listeners on surmounting insecurities, seizing opportunities, and relentlessly pursuing their dreams, highlighting her work on remarkable campaigns and projects.
    Join us as Jess Bonwick guides us through her inspiring journey as a distinguished and future-promising makeup artist. Tune in to her uplifting stories of turning around her career path, traversing memorable milestones, and ultimately finding satisfaction in pursuing her passion. Listen as she illuminates the importance of skills, mindset, hard work, and self-belief in building a remarkable career.
    Follow Jess’s ongoing journey on Instagram @jessbonwickmua and remember that for someone with such great talent, this is just the beginning!
    Join us for a fresh episode of What Was I Made For? every Wednesday.
    Don’t miss out on exclusive content and updates by following us on:
    Instagram: @whatwasimadeforpod TikTok: @whatwasimadeforpodYouTube: @whatwasimadeforpod
    Send us your thoughts and questions at [email protected]
    Hosted by: Shaun and Rachael Reynolds
    Music by: Black Prez and Shaun Reynolds
    © What Was I Made For? is a Reynolds Studios Inc. Production
    48 min

About What Was I Made For?

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to ’What Was I Made For?’ Your guide to prioritizing happiness and pursuing your passions. Hosted by music producer and content creator Shaun Reynolds, alongside dance school owner and talent agent Rachael Reynolds, this podcast is your go-to source for entertainment and inspiration.