w/Jenni Tooley

Hello listeners! Welcome to yet another invigorating episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your Aging Ingénue, Jenni Tooley, and I'm exceptionally thrilled to have you join me today.

But before we jump into today's conversation, I have some exciting news to share. If you're a fan of Season One (and let's be honest, who isn't?), I've got a special treat for you – the Interactive Companion Guide. Head over to Jennitooley.com to grab your copy and enhance your listening experience.

I’m thrilled to have Jessica Sloan as an esteemed guest on today’s episode! Jessica is a seasoned industry professional with a diverse background in film and television. From interning at top organizations like Miramax to her role as a casting coordinator at Beth Sepko Casting, Jessica has extensive experience in the entertainment industry. With 17 years as a full-time on-camera agent and head of the voiceover department at a prestigious talent agency, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She's now the secretary for Women in Filmand Television Austin and runs her own consulting firm, First Take, where she teaches the business of acting.

Jessica Sloan was also my former agent of over ten years and I’m excited to have her share her journey and experience, starting from her intern days at the Austin Film Society to her transition into talent representation. Including pivotal moments in her career like the decision to pursue a new path after realizing the toll of constant hustle and the importance of finding balance in life - all in today’s episode!

We explored the challenges and rewards of navigating the entertainment industry, from auditioning for major shows like ‘Fear The Walking Dead’ to the intricacies of agent-client relationships. This episode is packed with valuable insights into the entertainment industry's inner workings that are sure to inspire listeners – whether or not you’re in the industry.

Highlights of our conversation include:    

• Living a Well-Rounded Life: we discussed the goal of living a well-rounded life, despite conflicting desires and the importance of balance and understanding personal desires (30:56).
• Fear of Saying No: we talked about the fear of saying no, especially in the acting profession and how actors can take control of their careers and not compromise their values (31:12).  
• Navigating Auditions: how to handle auditions and stick to your principles (32:03).
• Personal Journey in the Industry: we discussed some personal experiences and struggles in the entertainment industry (34:30).
• Creating Opportunities: rather than waiting for them (45:19).
• Union Membership: the challenges and benefits of being a SAG (Screen Actors Guild) member in a right-to-work state (46:02).
• Union Membership in Texas: joining a union in Texas and the importance of personal choice (52:32).   
• Dealing with Anxiety: we shared our individual experiences with anxiety and how to manage it. (53:38).  
• Encouragement to Seek Help: the importance of acknowledging mental health struggles and seeking help (01:09:40).

Jessica’s story is one of resilience, growth, and a passion for empowering others and we’re excited to have you join us in this episode, as we reminisce, laugh, and share practical wisdom! Don’t miss a second of this engaging, entertaining, and insightful episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue."

Get full access to w/Jenni Tooley at www.jennitooley.com/subscribe

Welcome, dear listeners, to another episode of “Confessions of an Aging Ingénue” with your delectable host, Jenni Tooley. Season Two is packed with captivating stories and insightful conversations that you cannot afford to miss.

In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce a special guest Belén Arriola, the extraordinary owner of Just Bee Coffee Bar and nuJava Coffee Company.

But before we kick off, I have an announcement. Enrollment for the Time to Create (your dream project) 6-month Mentorship is open and the Interactive Companion Guide for Season One, specially put together to improve your podcast listening experience, is up on my website! Head over to jennitooley.com to get all the details and other exclusive content.

And to the business of the day! Our guest, Belén Arriola, takes us on a heartfelt exploration of her journey from a troubled time in Phoenix to the serene landscapes of Vermont and the bustling energy of Northwest Arkansas. Through her experiences as a barista and now as the owner of Just Bee Coffee Bar and nuJava Coffee Company, Belén’s story will motivate you to follow your dreams and find purpose.

Her story is a reminder that great things can happen in unexpected places and that a single moment can have a profound impact on our lives.

Today’s discussion is packed full of invaluable insights that will help you thrive in your own journey. We discussed:    

• Belén Arriola’s Journey to Coffee Ownership: (02:18 - 08:02)

Belén shares her journey from starting as a barista to becoming the owner and operator of nuava Coffee Company and Just Bee Coffee Bar.     

• Coffee as a Transformative Relationship: (08:38 - 10:17)

Belén reflects on her deep connection to coffee, describing it as more than just a beverage

but a transformative relationship that has brought her purpose and growth.      

• Belén's Decision to Move to Eureka Springs: (17:08 - 22:26)

She recounts the pivotal moment when her dream of owning a coffee business became a tangible possibility.

• Acquisition of New Java Coffee Company: (24:01 - 28:28)

Belén discusses the process of acquiring nuJava Coffee Company amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Navigating Business Challenges During COVID-19: (28:37 - 31:34)

Belén discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially regarding the impact on the coffee roastery's wholesale business.

• Building and Operating the Coffee Bar: (31:39 - 34:57)

She shares her experience and the collaborative process of setting up and operating the coffee bar.

• Creating Genuine Interactions at the Coffee Bar: (36:42 - 45:19)

Belén reflects on her transition from introversion to a public-facing role as the owner of the

coffee bar.

• Embracing Authenticity and Its Impact: (47:48 - 50:10)

She reflects on the power of authenticity in fostering connections and creating positive change.

Layered throughout today’s episode is practical wisdom that you can explore and apply in your own life, insights that will enrich your journey, and just maybe, the...

Get full access to w/Jenni Tooley at www.jennitooley.com/subscribe

Hello, lovely listeners! Welcome back to another episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue” - your go-to podcast for all things unexpected, insightful, and downright entertaining. I'm your host, Jenni Tooley, thrilled to have you joining me on this journey.

I've got a special treat for you - the Interactive Companion Guide for Season One! Head over to Jennitooley.com to enhance your podcast experience and discover a treasure trove of insights through the magic of storytelling. Also, I am launching a mentorship program this year, so make sure you're subscribed to my monthly Muse letter to stay in the loop with insider tips and info.

Now, let's get down to the business of the day! Have you ever had a moment in life when your plans took an unexpected turn, and you found yourself on an entirely different path? Well, I sure have, and today's episode is all about one such unexpected adventure.

It’s the tale of a recent branding photoshoot that turned into a wild ride of self-discovery, body image revelations, and a powerful lesson in embracing imperfection. From glitter jumpsuits to zebra fur shoes, it's a story that took me on a journey I hadn't anticipated, and I’m excited to share it with you.

This is me being vulnerable as I reflect on my journey through weight fluctuations, aging, and then embracing imperfection. Navigating body dysmorphia and societal expectations while finding confidence and acceptance in my own skin.

I’ve learned the importance of authenticity and self-expression in personal branding and lots more that I'm excited to share with you. So, join me as I take you through the process of self-discovery and the importance of living by your values.

And if you find value in today's episode, then subscribe to stay up to date on new episodes. Every episode is an adventure waiting to unfold!

Until next time, lovelies! Stay fabulous, stay real.

Connect with me:

Instagram: Jenni Tooley

Facebook: Jenni Tooley

Website: Jennitooley.com

Welcome to Season Two of "Confessions of an Aging Ingenue"!

I'm your host, Jenni Tooley, and I'm thrilled to have you here today.

Before we get into this episode, I've got some exciting news for you. I've just released an Interactive Companion Guide for Season One! It's packed with insights, reflections, and behind-the-scenes stories to enhance your podcast journey. Head over to Jennitooley.com for more details.

And that's not all – this year, we're launching a mentorship program! Make sure you're signed up for our monthly Muse letter to get exclusive tips and insider info.

Alright, let's get into it. Season Two is finally here! For those who've been with me since Season One, thank you for your support. And if you're new here, welcome!

In Season One, I shared personal stories, projects, and experiences, taking a raw and authentic approach to storytelling. If you haven't checked it out yet, be sure to catch up on Season One to get to know me better.

But let's talk about Season Two. A lot has changed since Season One. Back in 2019, I recorded episodes under the title "Have I Told You About the Time," sharing stories and reflections straight from the heart. Fast forward to 2023, and we rebranded as "Confessions of an Aging Ingenue," reaching a wider audience and embracing new opportunities.

This season, get ready for a mix of solo casts and exciting guest interviews. I'll be sharing insights on my projects, discussing the creative process, and diving into topics like aging, resilience, and personal growth. Plus, we've lined up some incredible guests, including my former agent Jessica Sloan and Belén Arriola, the owner of a beloved coffee bar and roastery.

As we embark on this journey together, expect candid conversations, genuine moments, and maybe even a few puppy antics (yes, I've got a new furry friend in the mix!).

Life is full of changes and challenges, but it's also an opportunity to embrace imperfection, find joy in the little things, and live life on your own terms.

So, whether you're tuning in from your morning commute or unwinding at home, thank you for joining me on this adventure. And remember, if something resonates with you, don't hesitate to apply it to your own life. And if you want to dive deeper, check out the Interactive Companion Guide for Season One and consider joining our mentorship program.

I'm Jenni Tooley, your guide through the chaos, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts. Please comment, review, follow, and subscribe – your support keeps our podcast thriving. Also, be sure to check out our website for more resources and updates on upcoming episodes.

Season two promises to be another captivating, thought-provoking and insightful ride! So don’t miss any episodes.

Until next time, lovelies! Stay fabulous, stay real.

Connect with me:

Instagram: Jenni Tooley

Facebook: Jenni Tooley

Website: Jennitooley.com

Hey there, lovely listeners!

Welcome back to another soul-stirring episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your host Jenni Tooley, and I'm beyond thrilled to have you join me today.

Before we dive into the captivating world of our STUCK story, I want to extend a special invitation to all of you. Picture this: a confessional session every first Wednesday of the month, where we spill the beans and share our juiciest tales. Intrigued? Head over to jennitooley.com and mark your calendar for some confessional magic.

Let’s get started! Today's STUCK story is a gem that some might advise against sharing. But you know what? It's vital, and I believe some of you out there need to hear it. Buckle up as I unravel the tale of the memorial service I had for all the dreams that didn't unfold around my movie, STUCK.

Dreams, expectations, assumptions—we all have them. And, more often than not, life takes unexpected turns. My movie, initially envisioned with specific stars and grand premieres, took a different route. And you know what? It turned out to be a beautiful, powerful story with a cast that I now wouldn't trade for the world.

I'll spill the tea on the fundraising journey, applying for grants, and the harsh reality of not making the cut. Indie film stardom? Well, that wasn't our path, and I had to reassess where STUCK truly belonged in this vast cinematic world.

Let's just say I had to readjust my expectations. But you know what's incredible? Our premiere at the Women Texas Film Festival was nothing short of magical. And that moment at the Dallas Video Festival? Pure gold.

Yet, throughout this journey, I realized I hadn't properly mourned the dreams that didn't materialize. So, while on a drive, I decided to have a memorial service for those dreams. A symbolic burial of what could have been.

Why? Because carrying the weight of unfulfilled dreams can be heavy. It took this moment of honoring, grieving, and letting go to clear space for what truly matters—moving forward with a clean slate.

The unexpected clarity on the next steps for my movie? Priceless. No shame, no weird feelings, just a roadmap of what needs to be done. And you know what's crazy? I didn't fully grasp the magnitude of making a feature film until recently.

I learned to celebrate the small victories, set realistic metrics of success, and revel in each step of the journey. So, here's to letting go, making space, and embracing the creative process.

I hope this resonates with someone out there. Remember, it's okay to grieve not only for people or pets but also for the dreams that didn't make it.

Thanks for being part of this heartfelt journey. I'm Jenni Tooley, your host, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts on today's episode.

Don't forget to comment, review, follow, and subscribe—your support keeps our podcast thriving. Until next time, much love, and stay tuned for more soulful confessions!

Hello, lovely listeners, and welcome to another episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your Aging Ingénue, Jenni Tooley, thrilled to have you with me today. Before we dive into the juicy bits, let me extend a personal invitation to you. Join us in the confessional every first Wednesday of the month at jennitooley.com. Who knows, you might just find yourself in the confessor seat!

Now, let's jump into the excitement. If you're catching this in time, the last weekend of October is approaching. You can head over to jennitooley.com/Stuck to watch my first feature film, "STUCK," in my private screening room, part of the Jenni Tooley experience. It's a new venture where I'm sharing my podcast journals, wisdom wanderings, and more. Plus, there are different tiers for you to explore, including coaching, consulting, and even micro-budget indie film advice.

Your support helps me stay independent and continue creating content, so do check it out.

Great! Let's delve into today's topic – "State your fees." It might sound like a peculiar mantra, but trust me, it's something we all need a reminder of from time to time.

Today, I want to take you back about five years, a period of financial struggle and self-discovery. I found myself focusing on underearning. The realization hit me – I had spent my entire life undervaluing my skills, staying small, and, in a way, invisible.

As an actor, the dichotomy of being visible on the outside while feeling small and invisible internally was a delicate dance. I mastered the art of being a chameleon, adapting to social situations and performances, all while battling a deep-seated mindset of deprivation.

Fast forward to a pivotal moment – an audition dilemma. The industry landscape was shifting, and I was grappling with the challenges of being a union member in a right-to-work state like Texas. The struggle with non-union gigs, modified contracts, and the financial toll of auditions became overwhelming.

Then came the audacious move – the "offer-only" decision. Discovering that I had the power to say no to auditions and declare myself "offer-only” was a paradigm shift, challenging the traditional actor's mindset and underearner's beliefs.

I want to share a personal story that unfolded during this period. Despite the financial risks, I took a leap of faith. The outcome was unexpected – I secured the role, negotiated terms, and discovered the genuine appreciation of the filmmakers.

This experience taught me a profound lesson – recognizing and asserting my value as an actor. It shattered the illusion of being small and invisible, paving the way for a mindset shift towards abundance.

So, today's episode is about acknowledging your worth, setting boundaries, and standing up for what aligns with your values. I encourage you to reflect on your own journey and the times you've hesitated to declare your worth.

Before we wrap up, a quick reminder to visit jennitooley.com for the Jenni Tooley experience and explore the exciting content waiting for you. Your support makes a world of difference, allowing me to continue this creative journey.

Thank you for being part of this episode. I can't wait to hear your thoughts, so don't forget to comment, review, follow, and subscribe. Your engagement keeps our podcast thriving.

Until next time, this is Jenni Tooley, your host, signing off.

Hey there, lovely listeners!

Welcome back to another episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your host, Jenni Tooley, and I'm thrilled to have you joining me today.

Before we dive into today's musings, a quick shoutout to our confessional nights happening every first Wednesday of the month. Head over to jennitooley.com for the deets – who knows, you might just find yourself in the confessor seat!

Now, let's talk about something close to my heart – music. Living in Austin, especially during ACL time, is a whole experience, isn't it? I just got home, and the echoes of sound checks are still ringing in my ears. The city comes alive, and if you're in the right spots, you can even catch a free concert, courtesy of the wind carrying the tunes.

But let me take you back, way back, to a time when someone told me I was a singer. So, I was the singer in a high school band, fast forward to college, a choir class, and me grappling with the idea of being a singer.

This episode is basically about the journey that led me to finding my voice again and believing in my ability to actually sing and be good at it and eventually creating original songs for my first feature film, "STUCK."

The studio experience was nerve-racking, to say the least as perfectionism clashed with my perceived lack of technical prowess, but I pushed through.

And, guess what? I just sold two of my songs! It hit me – why am I still questioning if I'm a singer? It's time to shed the expectations and embrace the reality. So, here I am, sharing this journey with you, owning the title – Jenni Tooley, your singer-host.

I appreciate you being here and listening to my story.

Don't forget to comment, review, follow, and subscribe – your support keeps our podcast thriving. Until next time, much love to you all!

Hey there, lovely listeners!

Welcome back to another episode of Confessions of an Aging Ingénue. I'm your host, Jenni Tooley, and I'm elated to have you join me today.

Before we dive into the juicy details, I want to extend a special invitation. Join us in the confessional on Wednesday nights, the first Wednesday of the month, over at jennitooley.com. Who knows, you might even find yourself in the confessor seat!

Alright, let's jump into today's unfiltered, unscripted episode. I've got a tale for you - the time we lost a location for STUCK just 12 hours before the shoot. Can you believe it? Picture this: micro-budget filmmaking, a nursing home scene crucial to the beginning and end of the movie, and bam! The location pulls the rug from under us.

But here's the twist – instead of panicking, I trusted my instincts and my co-producer. No drama, no stress. Just a canceled shoot and an unexpected day off. Sometimes, you gotta roll with the punches, right?

With some quick rewriting, rescheduling, and a touch of serendipity, everything fell into place.

It's stories like these that remind me to trust the process, let go, and let the universe work its magic. Oh, and did I mention the unexpected casting switch that turned out to be a blessing in disguise?

So, my dear listeners, embrace the unexpected, enjoy the ride, and remember, sometimes a hiccup is just a plot twist in the grand movie of life.

I’m sure that you’ll love today’s episode. Don't forget to comment, review, follow, and subscribe. Keep this podcast thriving, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts on today's rollercoaster tale. Stay fabulous!

Until next time, love you guys!

Hello, wonderful listeners!

Welcome back to another episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your Aging Ingénue, Jenni Tooley, thrilled to have you here today.

But before we dive into today's episode, I have a special invitation for you. How about joining me in the confessional on Wednesday nights, every first Wednesday of the month? Check it out at jennitooley.com. Who knows, you might even find yourself in the confessor seat!

Now, let's jump into it. For those joining us for the first time, welcome to "Have I Told You About the Time?" This is my unedited, unscripted, and uncensored podcast where I spill the tea on various experiences in my life. Today, I've got a juicy tale for you.

Ever heard of the movie "Boyhood" by Richard Linklater? It's a masterpiece made over twelve years, following the life of a boy as he grows up. In Part Two of my Boyhood adventure, we pick up where we left off in Year Eight.

So fasten your seatbelts.

From the suspense as I wait for updates on my schedule, leading to an unexpected twist. Then comes the release of the movie, the premiere in Austin, and the realization that fame doesn't always align with financial success.

Cue the texts from people recognizing me, the awkward encounters at my restaurant hostess job, and the humbling reality of the industry.

But here's the plot twist – leveraging Boyhood! Discover how this experience became a powerful tool for fundraising and a reminder about the unpredictability of success in the entertainment world.

So, buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of my Boyhood journey. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on today's episode, so please comment, review, follow, and subscribe. Your engagement keeps our podcast thriving!

Until next time, this is Jenni Tooley signing off. Thanks for being here with me today, and I'll catch you in the next episode. Stay fabulous!

Hey there, lovely listeners!

Welcome to another episode of "Confessions of an Aging Ingénue." I'm your host, the Aging Ingénue - Jenni Tooley, and I'm absolutely thrilled to have you with me today.

Before we dive into the juicy bits, let me extend a personal invitation to our confessional sessions every first Wednesday of the month. Join us at jennitooley.com, and who knows, you might just end up in the confessor seat. Now, let's get this show on the road!

Today, I want to share a captivating story from my time in this movie industry, specifically when I was cast in Richard Linklater's "Boyhood." Oh, it's a good one!

Picture this: I had left acting professionally, had my late twenties crisis, walked away, and eventually decided to give it another shot but on my own terms.

Now, here's the twist. My second audition was for Richard Linklater's project spanning twelve years – "Boyhood." A lot of that experience was awkward, but it worked like magic.

Fast forward, and I found myself cast as Annie in "Boyhood." The first year on set was mind-blowing. Talk about jumping into the creative deep end!

The whole experience was magical, challenging, and filled with unexpected moments – like singing a song I learned the day before!

This story from my time on "Boyhood" is a load of adventures and insights so tune in to get the whole story.

I'm Jenni Tooley, your host, signing off. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on today's episode.

Don't forget to comment your thoughts and review, follow, and subscribe to keep our podcast thriving. Love you all, and catch you next time!