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Date
Titre
Durée
05 Jan 2024
Welcome to Actual People! ...The Trailer
00:02:28
Welcome to Actual People, an unfiltered exploration of individual and societal shifts in a world undergoing tremendous change.
In this podcast, I’ll open up about my own experiences in order to dive into social and cultural phenomena, positive developments, and collective pain.
We’ll look at survival, endurance, strength, triumph and despair while imagining a future with creative joy and hope.
Each episode is dedicated to meaningful conversations about the evolving landscape of our lives and the power of our own creativity and imagination to make magic.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
001 - Suddenly 50: Where We Are & What's Next As Gen X
00:23:50
In this first episode, I reflect on the shock and freedom of turning 50 at a time in history where nothing is what it was. Gen X is the unsung renegade generation reinventing once again. What will we do next?
Welcome to the very first episode of "Actual People" where I take you on a journey of discovery, reflection, and understanding of the unique path of our generation. As I reflect on my own experience of turning 50, I realize there's a profound peace that comes with this milestone. It's not just about getting older; it's about the unexpected ways life unfolds, regardless of age.
In this episode, I delve into the societal pressures we face in early adulthood and how we're redefining the second half. I explore themes of identity, the struggle to find our place, and what it means to belong taking it back to my childhood in Miami and life in my 20s in 90s and 00s New York in the golden era of hip hop.
I also shine a light on the cultural contributions of Gen X. Our impact is overshadowed by our little sisters, yet our role in shaping culture runs deep.
We have the power to start anew at any age. This isn't just my story; it's ours. So join me in unpacking these layers and embracing the non-linear path. I figured this was as good a place to start as any.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
In the second episode of "Actual People," I dive into how fear and darkness are useful tools for conjuring the spirits of hope and creativity and how despair is the real monster under the bed.
I touch upon the occult, post industrial Manchester, true crime, my 80s Miami childhood (again) and how the artist Jelly Roll, who just gave a rousing speech to Congress, might just might be the the most relevant messenger for our time.
Warning: Midway through the episode, I address some heavy stuff about drug addiction that may not be appropriate for all listeners.
Here are links to references and statistics from the episode.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
003 - What's Next for Media and Publishing Careers?
00:29:28
What's Next for Us?- Media and Publishing - The Anna Holmes Interview
From Jezebel shuttering and resurrecting last year to the 20,000+ layoffs in media, 2023 was a scary year for people working in creative fields, and then 2024 came along...
In this 3rd episode of Actual People, we bring you our first interview which is with Anna Holmes, the creator of online feminist publication Jezebel. I approached Anna with the desire to explore the question of ‘what’s next’ for creatives in turbulent times from her purview as a writer and editor and yes, we did get to it – but first took it back to the writers group we were both in as wide-eyed New York newbies before journeying to the present day. Anna brought her wealth of experience in media and a refreshing vulnerability as she reflected on the state of writing and publishing in an era marked by massive economic uncertainties.
We look at the past and examine the future, both as individuals in the creative industry and as a society grappling with AI, the decline of legacy media, and our inner (and outer) critics.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
004 - Cultural Examination of Song Lyrics and Love
00:16:13
From Lost In Love to Boy Bye - How Changing Lyrics Reflect Our Changing Attitudes Toward Love.
We used to have ballads. Epic sweeping syrupy sweet songs of undying devotion. Then love grew up - or grew jaded, depending on how you look at it. One thing's for certain, the love song as we knew it is long dead and not coming back.
In this episode, I take it back to the wind machine fueled hair bands and their power ballads, the gushing 90s R&B boys on bended knee, and the comeuppance from women getting wise to their own power and expressing it with new attitudes toward love.
The episode even comes with a playlist. I hope you have fun listening.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
In this enlightening episode of "Actual People," host Chauncey Zalkin sits down with former architect and designer turned generative AI educator, Lori Mazor. As of the date of this episode, Lori has guided over 3000 business leaders through the maze of generative AI.
With a newsletter called "Humans of AI" and an upcoming book called "Temperature: Creativity in the age of A.I.," Lori is at the forefront of integrating AI into creative and operational processes and she does so with wonder, wit, and intellect.
Listen as she shows us in tangible terms how AI can be a friend, not foe, that allows us to evolve and expand in the face of an uncertain future. She gives a great perspective as well as practical tools for actual people.
This episode provides a unique perspective on the role of AI in enhancing creative processes and operational efficiency, offering valuable lessons for listeners at the intersection of technology and creativity.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
006 - Exploring Beauty Standards from a Gen X Miami + New York Coming of Age
00:19:13
Beauty is a short lived tyranny. - Socrates
"I put the silver stiletto in the trash. The blade started to churn and I heard the snap of wood and strain of leather rending within its metal jaws..." Beauty is sublime, rejuvenating, restorative! but impossible beauty standards can have quite an opposite and deleterious impact.
How do we foster self love and create the kind of beauty we can enjoy throughout our entire lives?
Episode 6 of Actual People invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships with beauty including shifting and contradictory societal expectations and the celebratory aspects of personal expression through makeup and color.
Chauncey mixes stories of growing up in flashy 80s Miami and coming into her own as an adult coming to terms with varying expectations and finding a path to self-acceptance and celebration.
Stay tuned for our next episode with Elise Hu, where we'll explore the beauty industry and the concept of lookism through the lens of K Beauty in her book, "Flawless."
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
007 - Beauty Culture and The Tech Gaze with Elise Hu
00:40:57
Future Features: A Deep Dive into K Beauty and Beyond - Interview with Flawless Author Elise Hu
Join us on our voyage to the uncanny valley and back as we discuss the trajectory of beauty’s “cyborgian” future with TED Talks host and author of “Flawless, Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital,” Elise Hu.
In this captivating episode of Actual People, Chauncey sits down with Elise to explore the intricate world of beauty standards, technological influences, and the search for authenticity in our increasingly digital age while still having fun with beauty.
The episode dives deep into the themes of Elise's book, "Flawless," and unravels the complexities of beauty culture, the impact of technology on our perceptions, and the importance of self-acceptance and critical thinking in navigating these spaces.
🎉 H i g h l i g h t s 🎉
👁️ The Tech Gaze 👁️ : Elise discusses how modern beauty ideals are increasingly shaped by technology, from artificial enhancements to AI-generated beauty standards. She prompts us to consider the consequences of a world where aesthetic enhancement technologies mature to the point of realizing our "perfect visions."
💅🏽The Duality of Beauty Culture💅🏽: Elise shares her personal experiences and reflections on the dual nature of beauty treatments and makeup - the joy and bonding it brings versus the underlying desires to "fix" ourselves physically. This duality sparks a broader conversation on self-betterment and the societal implications of beauty standards.
🤔Navigating Standards as Parents🤔: Both Chauncey and Elise share insights into parenting in an era dominated by digital influences and shifting beauty norms. They discuss strategies for fostering body positivity, critical thinking, and self-esteem in children, highlighting the importance of open dialogue and leading by example.
🔮Looking Towards the Future🔮: The conversation touches on the evolving definitions of beauty, inclusivity in the beauty industry, and the potential future landscapes of beauty and self-expression.
--- This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of beauty, technology, culture, and self-identity or anyone navigating aging, raising kids, or, well, being human with ever evolving ideas of what that means. Elise Hu's insightful commentary, combined with Chauncey Zalkin’s thoughtful probing, makes for a deeply engaging discussion that leaves listeners with much to ponder about the future of beauty standards and the value of authentic self-expression.
Recommended Reading:📕 - “Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital" by Elise Hu. - Elise’s substack:
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
008 - Being BRCA+ with Reflections on Grieving My Father
00:23:07
Blue Ridge Mountain Edition - On Perfection, Grief and Hindsight Being 20/20 - An Essay That Looks Back on My Father.
Today's episode started out as a reading of an essay I wrote about my father's death of Prostate Cancer in 2019 with a title inspired by the Tame Impala song, "Let It Happen" which I heard performed live in Atlanta two days before he died knowing his death was about to happen after a lifetime of fearing it. Never has a song or a moment had more significance.
I was taking it easy with this episode because I'm on Spring Break days before my 51st birthday vacationing in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with my daughters in a cabin in the woods and I want to just 'be' - but a lot came up in creating the intro - about perfection, about grief, and about acceptance - and it ended up taking, as usual, a lot more time to record than expected.
This episode talks about the choices we make in times of heightened emotion, the big moments of our lives, and how we reconcile them later. Mistakes as perfection.
It also follows a rewatching of all 6 seasons of the show Parenthood which I watched before I got pregnant the first time around. About a decade or so later, I'd forgotten so much of it. I had a lot more criticism of the characters choices but loved them every bit as much as I did the first time. The show also acted as a catharsis for a lot of unspent grief about my dear old dad and my experience learning I was BRCA2 positive.
Hope you'll take a listen on your ride to wherever you're going - and make sure to give a nod to the mountains, ocean, desert or whatever beautiful, perfect physical landscape you may be seeing as you go...
PLEASE leave a review and share!
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
Welcome to this week's episode of Actual People, hosted by Chauncey Zalkin. Today, we delve into the intricate world of relationships, trauma, and the journey towards healing and self-love with relationship and trauma therapist Jasmonae Joyriel PsyD LP, brings her expertise in navigating the aftermath of toxic relationships and sheds light on the path to healthier connections.
In This Episode:
Introduction to Healing: Chauncey opens up about personal experiences and choices in love.
Expert Insights: Jasmonae Joyriel, a therapist specializing in relationship trauma, joins us to explore the underlying causes of why individuals find themselves in harmful relationships.
Societal Reflections: We discuss how societal norms and gender roles contribute to the cycle of relationship trauma.
Breaking Cycles: Insights into how individuals can recognize toxic patterns and take steps towards healthier relationships.
Self-Love and Recovery: The importance of nurturing self-love and establishing boundaries as foundational steps in healing.
Q&A with Jasmonae: An enlightening conversation on the dynamics of "bad boys," the allure, and the path to empowering oneself to seek better.
Conclusion: Chauncey wraps up with key takeaways and reflections on moving forward with hope and resilience.
Resources Mentioned:
"Why Does He Do That? Inside the Lives of Angry and Controlling Men" by Lundy Bancroft is a book I highly recommend and I mention inside the episode. It really sheds light on empirical evidence about abusers motivation to abuse as well as shattering stereotypes of who abusers are by breaking down the 'types' of abusers.
Jasmonae Joyriel is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Austin, Texas who rose up from her own wounds and experience with abuse to help others heal and thrive. She holds retreats for women on intimacy and healing in relationships. We met and bonded in the women's network Hey Mama. This is her website: https://igniteanew.com/
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
Tech Free in NYC? How One Super Successful Digital Marketer and City Mom Gave it All Up And Went For Broke . In the latest episode of "Actual People," host Chauncey Zalkin talks to the author of "Raising Hell and Living Well: Freedom from Influence in a World Where Everyone Wants Something From You, Including Me."
Their discussion explores the pervasive impact of digital influence, the very real physical and mental toll of digital dementia, and how the next 18 months will play a pivotal role on how we will all move forward as a society. She also adds some prescient advice for parents of teens facing A.I.'s future.
About Jessica: After helping a cadre of brands gain influence, Jessica Elefante, former digital strategist-turned-author, experienced burnout and a personal epiphany. She quit everything and wrote a book chronicling her personal struggles and providing a roadmap for others seeking to disconnect from technological overreach and reclaim their mental space and creativity.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Jessica’s Background: Learn about Jessica's transition from a successful career in digital marketing to becoming a vocal advocate for living a tech-minimized life.
The Genesis of "Raising Hell and Living Well": Jessica discusses the pivotal moments that compelled her to write her book and how she navigated the challenges of disconnecting from a digital-first lifestyle.
Insights from the Book: An exploration of key themes such as the toxicity of digital influence and practical advice on establishing boundaries with technology.
Her own "Folk Rebellion": Jessica shares her experiences founding and running Folk Rebellion, a media brand focused on promoting healthier digital habits through off-the-grid retreats and community engagements and how she realized that was not the whole picture either.
Evolution of Her Views on Technology: How Jessica’s perspective on technology has shifted over the years, from advocating balanced tech use to recognizing the foundational problems inherent in digital platforms.
Personal Anecdotes and Turning Points: Jessica recounts personal stories that highlight the severe impacts of digital overload on her health and well-being, leading to significant life changes.
Advice for Creatives: Tips for creatives on navigating the pressures of the digital economy while staying true to one’s values and creative vision.
Discussion on the Future of Creativity and Technology: A forward-looking conversation on potential paths for the creative industries in an increasingly digital world and the role of individual choices in shaping a healthier interaction with technology.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
The Anatomy of Collaboration: Insights from a Writer's Room Veteran. Meet Oscar-nominated writer and director, Rob Pearlstein, known for his work in both advertising and television, MacGyver, Scorpion, Someone Marry Barry, and more. Join Rob and Chauncey as they delve into the dynamics of collaboration exploring the intense, intricate world of writers' rooms and creative agencies.
The episode offers a deep dive into how creative professionals navigate the pressures and politics of collaborative environments to produce magic. Whether you're an artist, a corporate executive, a CIA operative, or a junk bond salesman (okay maybe not that), this episode is for you.
In This Episode, You Will Learn: 1. The Essence of Collaboration: Rob discusses the necessity of collaboration in writers' rooms and compares it to his experiences in advertising. He shares practical tips on how writers and creatives can enhance their collaborative skills. 2. Navigating Difficult Conversations: Rob and Chauncey touch on sensitive topics like racism and sexism in creative spaces. 3. Survival Tips for Creative Fields: From "digging shallow holes" to understanding when to push an idea and when to step back, the conversation offers a roadmap for thriving in competitive creative environments. 4. The Impact of AI on Creativity: The discussion explores how artificial intelligence is influencing creative processes and the potential implications for creative jobs. 5. Rob's Personal Journey: From starting in advertising to breaking into Hollywood, Rob shares his personal and professional journey, including the challenges and breakthroughs that have marked his career.
Why You Should Listen: - For Creatives : Gain insights into the skills and attitudes that help you succeed in high-pressure creative settings. - For Aspiring Industry Professionals: Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how TV shows and advertising campaigns come together from concept to execution. - For Fans of Creating Better Processes Everywhere: Get 6 concrete tips for smoother collaboration.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
012 - Actual People - Finding Elijah - Mother's Day Edition
00:16:56
In this special Mother's Day edition of "Actual People," host Chauncey Zalkin shares a real-life story of serendipity and chance encounters in the mom era of her life.
Three weeks ago, a Saturday morning bagel run turns into an unforeseen adventure when our host and her daughter Sky discover Elijah, a scarred, malnourished, and beautiful older pit bull, wandering the streets in the rain. This episode delves into how they react to Elijah, reflecting on the broader themes of care, compassion, and the complexities of motherhood.
This episode contemplates intuition, personal ethics, and decision trees as well as the day-to-day life of a single mother doing the most.
Mentioned in This Episode: - "White Collar" - a so-so TV show Chauncey watches with her daughters. - The role of routine and organization in managing a busy household. - The emotional and practical aspects of adopting and caring for a rescue dog. - John Galliano - Dog Poop
Join us next time on "Actual People" where we continue to explore the powerful narratives that shape creative lives.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
013 - An Ad Agency Executive With A Strategic Plan for Living
00:45:26
Get Curious, Get Clear - Writing a Life Brief with Bonnie Wan. Today host Chauncey Zalkin sits down with the author of "The Life Brief ".
Her guest, Bonnie Wan, has been the head of brand strategy at famed agency Goodby, Silverstein and Partners for over 13 years - and she took that talent for zeroing in on making meaning for major brands and parlayed it into writing briefs for people's lives starting with her own.
Take a listen.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
Self-Helping Yourself with Allegory 🐾 With excerpt of novel in progress, Claw 🐾
We're pushing lots of buttons. We're clicking and liking and commenting. We're beeping and booping, scrolling and scheduling. We're drinking from a fire hose of advice, opinions and external standards for how we should live our lives. Where's it all getting us?
Welcome to episode 14. This might be the most vulnerable episode yet of Actual People. Today's episode is a monologue that discusses an over reliance on self help patter for facing our personal challenges and considers the value of rich metaphor and letting things lie in order to find clarity.
Host Chauncey Zalkin ends by sharing a draft of her allegorical novel in progress called "Claw" which starts around the 23 minute mark. Listen if you dare.
Topics:
Writer's Block and Deep Work
Efforting and Letting Go
Advice Bros
Metaphor
Self Help as Distraction
Her favorite self help book ever with her own interpretation of the tool it offers.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
015 - A Career in Storytelling from Kate Tellers of The Moth
00:29:22
Musing on Loss of Organic Culture & Interview with Kate Tellers of The Storytelling Platform the Moth
Sense making. It's one of the deepest human drives. We desperately want to make sense of our world and our role in it. Host Chauncey Zalkin delves into this topic in the episode before this (Ep 14) and reads her own story as a writer using allegory to see truth and heal.
We are all makers and consumer of stories of characters we invest deeply in. Now, in episode 15, she sits down a long time executive of the fascinating storytelling platform, The Moth, to talk about the power of telling personal stories in order to connect more deeply. The Moth a unique success story of universal storytelling based on the ancient oral tradition.
Chauncey says, "my first time I heard what turned into Orange is the New Black was on the Moth Radio Hour on a road trip to see a close friend with Cancer". Stories from all walks of life have been writ large through their storytelling platform.
In this episode she muses on the loss of organic culture before getting into the interview.
Kate Tellers co-authored the 2022 New York Times best seller, How to Tell a Story. (affiliate link)
Enjoy!
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
016 - Collaboration, Conflict Resolution, and Our Macro and Micro Futures
00:25:58
Welcome to Episode 16! We are nearing the end of Season 1 of Actual People.
In this episode, host Chauncey Zalkin muses on conflict resolution from a cul-de-sac baseball game between 5-10 year olds to two daft elderly men squabbling on national TV about their golf game when we're worried about the future of our country and who will run it. (hint: it will most likely be one of these two...😖) to creative collaboration and its pitfalls.
We get into the micro and macro of the human experience and culture and conclude with the four major stories Chauncey sees as the ones that will inform the next 25 years - from smart cities to a screen-minimized future.
Indulge your inner futurist and creative problem solver, and take a listen!
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
017 - Hot Menopause Summer!! - Three Women, Three Stories (one is an aging expert!)
01:04:48
💃🏻 Welcome to the mega 'season finale' episode featuring three personal and honest conversations about what menopause, aging, strength, and vitality mean to women facing this new era.
Join us as we dive into discussions of the changing mindset and deeper understanding and acceptance of menopause, aging, beauty, and mortality.
We also got jokes.
This hour long episode features the optimism and energy of fashion-exec-turned-writer Christine Morrison, the wisdom and deep knowledge of aging planner, Allison O'Shea, and the wit and honesty of long time close friend and creative powerhouse, Lydia Langford who pulls no punches.
This final episode of season one is dedicated to the gift that was Elijah Zalkin who graced our presence in this life for three beautiful months.
May his beautiful sweet soul rest in peace.
Thank you Elijah.
😔
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E1 - Divorce and Motherhood: Reacquainting Yourself with You
00:19:04
On A Desire For More: The Summertime Sadness of the Single Mom + The Fire in the Pants That is Kamala's Art of War.
In the season premiere, Chauncey Zalkin reflects on her solo summer trip to New Zealand while her kids were with their father. Navigating the emotions of sudden solitude, she finds herself reacquainting with her pre-motherhood identity amid stunning landscapes and cultural explorations—from the geothermal wonders of Waimangu Volcanic Valley and fjords of Milford Sound to a quiet week of self-discovery in Auckland. Chauncey discusses the unexpected mix of grief, longing, and desire for more—a push for change, new adventures, and deeper connection.
She also shares her take on last night’s debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, celebrating Harris’ undeniable skill and intelligence and reflecting on what it means for women and for our country. This episode combines introspection, adventure, and sharp political commentary, offering a fresh perspective on personal growth and the desire for more from life.
Listen and subscribe to Actual People on your favorite podcast platform and don’t miss next week's interview with Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer of the Harris Poll.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
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We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E2 - Gen Z, AI, and a Permanently Shifting Workplace Dynamic
00:40:08
A conversation with Harris Poll Chief Strategy Officer, Libby Rodney.
Could the future of AI monetize creativity rather than exploit it? Is there a future version of capitalism where we ditch artificial scarcity and all get a piece of the pie? Did Gen Z change the workplace dynamic forever? And can businesses finally end their love affair with the short termism they've had since 2022?
In episode 2, host Chauncey Zalkin chats with Harris Poll Chief Strategy Officer, Libby Rodney, to talk about the data, possible scenarios for AI to benefit us all, and why adding sixth grade to middle school was a terrible idea.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
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We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E3 - Our National Compromise - From Hope to Hanging On (And How to Get Back on Path)
00:29:12
Host Chauncey Zalkin recounts a trip to the grocery store with her daughter reminiscing on Obama era ideals realizing, we've largely abandoned them.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E4 - The New Networking: How to Promote Yourself as a Creative Now (hint: it's not just social media)
00:50:51
A New Vibration - The Optimism and Renewed Passion of Creative Boom Founder Katy Cowan
This is a special one. Katy was Chauncey's first pick for a guest episode when launching her podcast almost a year ago and finally it's here.
In this episode of Actual People, host Chauncey Zalkin sits down with the ever-so-charming Katy Cowan, founder of UK-based Creative Boom, a global platform supporting creatives across industries for the past 15 years.
The episode is packed with practical advice for creatives navigating the rapidly changing landscape of self promotion - including a kind of simplicity we often overlook. She also talks about the aftermath of an injury and how she came out the other end with a renewed passion and willingness to get comfortable with discomfort in order to grow.
Take a listen!
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E5 - The Toll of Election Anxiety and How To Engage Meaningfully
00:15:28
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Fears of Totalitarianism, and Finding Paradise
Spooky season is still not over: In this episode host Chauncey Zalkin covers Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Gorging on Political Wonkery, and Where Beauty and Meaning Really Come From.
Topics Covered:
Election Anxiety: Chauncey opens up about her deep concern over political divides and the potential fallout of the election outcome, capturing her personal struggles with the 24/7 news cycle and the toll it takes.
Dopamine vs. Serotonin: She discusses what is known and unknown about the brain’s dopamine-reward system. No pop psychology here!
Connecting Through Conversations: Chauncey talks about bridging gaps that feel like chasms but might be illusions.
Art and Film as Anchors: Chauncey reflects on classic films Life Is Beautiful and Cinema Paradiso and our own imagination to get us to the other side.
The Power of Community: From curbside chili potlucks to comparing memories of life at ten years old, to talking to people who might vote for the man you loathe most, there is nothing that can replace face to face conversations.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E6 - Non-Linear Career Paths: Smashing the Ageism Hurdle
00:56:36
Psychoanalyst. Mother. Clogger. Playwright.. Meet my mom's college friend who never stops learning and growing: an interview with Tarpley Long and a road map for Gen X women who never cared much for the linear path.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S02E7 - Multigenerational Women Facing Our Current Climate Together
00:42:59
From divergent thoughts, convergent thoughts, indecision loops, and 'a ha moments' to touring middle schools, this discussion starts off with soul searching and moves on to the soul freeing way a woman named Amy Reinert is able to embrace all phases of her life and connect with other women through pure honesty.
Topics Discussed: Postpartum Depression Misogynistic Corporate Policies for Mothers Hormone Therapy Female networks Gen Z and Gen Alpha daughters reaction to the election Women's Rights Female Friendship More
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
This episode, Host Chauncey Zalkin sits down with friend and British Futurist Melissa Sterry who combines a passion for fashion and art with multiple degrees in sustainability, architecture and science.
The two met through the A Small World network in the mid 00s while Chauncey lived in Paris and Melissa in the UK. A lot has changed since then. They discuss the modern paradox of homogeneity in a diverse world. Melissa explains how hope is around the corner in our quest to champion human creativity and individuality.
Take a listen.
Mentioned in this episode
Neurodiversity
Journalistic Standards
Fashion Then & Now
HBO's "Industry"
The Nepo Baby Problem
The State of The Indie Press in the UK
and more
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
Host Chauncey Zalkin defines Actual People for its second year but not before diving into the movies, tv, and music that held the keys to change in 2025. Despite a backdrop of sadness and uncertainty, we will start anew like we always do.
Actual People is about TRANSITIONS, EVOLUTIONS, NEW CHAPTERS, from the personal to the global.
Topics Include:
Lingering Post-Election Sadness and a Newfound Optimism 👁️
Beyond Polarization to a 'Middle Way' 🙏🏼
Impact of Short-Form Content 😶🌫️
Welcome Generation Beta ! 🐣
Significance of Wicked, Emelia Perez, Blink Twice, Ronny Chieng, Jamie Foxx, Ellen DeGeneres, Lola Young, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and a lot more.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E10 - Female Leaders in Advertising: Taking Control in an Uneven Playing Field
00:37:18
Life isn't fair. So what are you going to do about it?
In this episode, Jill Brinsdon shares her journey as a creative director and prominent leader in New Zealand's advertising industry. She talks when to play the game and when to jump ship and the importance of personal agency in shaping your career and driving change. She also talks about the important role men have in shaping the future of advertising.
Warning: A couple of F Bombs.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E11 - Blue Bracelets, Pussyhats, and Other Good Intentions: Where We Go from Here
00:52:18
In this episode Chauncey Zalkin sits down with guest and advocate for Black women in the workplace, Jessica Pharm, to take an unflinching look at the complexities of race, gender, and trust for liberal America as we face Trump's second term.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E12 - A Vision for The Next-Gen Economy through the lens of Essentialist Design
00:44:54
Each creative discipline offers a piece of the puzzle of human creativity. In this episode, host Chauncey Zalkin sits down with three time "International Designer of the Year" award winner and Fast Company board member Todd Bracher to talk about how we can shift the emphasis from needless crap to creating a better future for everyone from an essentialist design perspective.
Inside the episode:
The value of crossing disciplines to bring more power to great ideas — and your career.
Why ditching outside experts is a big mistake companies increasingly make at their own peril.
How A.I. will accelerate innovation and not replace humans.
Watch my video story about a chair Todd designed. (NOT your average chair documentary...)
☕️ SUPPORT ACTUAL PEOPLE : Don't let that money burn a hole in your (digital) wallet, support your favorite podcast now. Go to ko-fi.com/actualpeople without delay so we can keep bringing you thoughtful storytelling about the cultural moment, life evolutions, and creativity!
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
An ad agency called Geezer is flipping the 50 plus narrative on its head to something more accurate. It's about time. Join us for a conversation with Founder, Karen McKinley, CEO, Brent Rivard, and CCO, John Kieselhorst.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E14 - Moral Injury in Healthcare and the Entire Nation
00:58:32
Chauncey Zalkin sits down with Dr. Jennie Byrne, a psychiatrist working with clinicians who sees a painful trend in healthcare but first Chauncey explores why she thinks the wound has spread to the entire nation and why it's time to exile virtue signaling and embrace anger signaling. Like immediately.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
Welcome to an imperfect episode about imperfect times. You can call it the 'Boys to Men Episode', 'The Man Show', 'How The Boys Will Thrive 2025', or 'The Bro Show'. It's a musing on boys and men from the perspective of a GenX woman raised in an all female household now raising only daughters herself.
In this monologue episode, among the bombardment of terror from the White House and in the wake of Andrew Tate's release and the release of Adolescence on Netflix, host Chauncey Zalkin explores her own arc in experiences of boys and men through her GenX life, which looks a lot like the stages of grief.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
S2E16- The Origins of Brit Cool and The Creative Community We Need Now
01:18:25
Welcome to a conversation with a true pioneer in elevating the best design in the world. Piers Roberts offers profound reflections on the distance we've fallen from conscious consumerism and where to go from here with a strong emphasis on uplifting neurodivergent ways of thinking.
For over 20 years, Piers has played a significant role in contributing to East London’s success as an inspirational beacon of creativity and innovation. He launched Designersblock in September 1998 at the Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane, 5 years ahead of the London Design Festival. He went on to develop and produce major Creative Festivals in London, Milan and Tokyo covering design, architecture and illustration. Over 19 years the pioneering and much imitated event showcased over 4000 creatives from 38 countries in 65 events across ten countries.
Piers has written, curated and produced critically acclaimed conferences in Creativity and Entrepreneurship for Southbank Centre, the Oxo Tower and Europe House.
This interview is one of the nearest and dearest to my heart so far in my time hosting this beautiful podcast. It's a true gem and I'm immensely honored to be able to share it.
Here's what you'll hear (and more:)
How DesignersBlock ignited a new wave of UK design by repurposing empty buildings for creative shows
Why neurodivergence is often a hidden driver of visionary creativity—and how it’s misunderstood in traditional systems
The origin of the term "creative entrepreneur" and how it emerged from economic scarcity and DIY culture
What it was like to be on the outside of the mainstream design world looking out, not trying to fit in.
How pioneers often get dismissed in their time, even as their ideas are widely adopted later.
The emotional toll of being a creative who is early, original—and overlooked
How burnout, wintering, and wellbeing are essential chapters in a creative life
The dangers of reducing creativity to metrics, and the value of nonlinear thinking in solving complex global problems.
and a lot, lot more
References:
Ron Arad, Jasper Morrison, Marc Newson, Ross Lovegrove, Simon Pengelly, Jan Van Der Lande, Hella Jongerius, Richard Hutten, Ineke Hans, Casper Vissers (Moooi), Sheridan Coakley (SCP), Konstantin Grcic, Matthew Hilton, Andrew Purves, Terrance Conran, William Morris, Judy Singer, Catherine May, Joanne Limburg, Martin Evans, and more.
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Intro/Outro sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
Want to go deeper? Follow my Substack and don't forget to pledge subscription. (;
Want to see the episode? Subscribe to the Actual People YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and behind the scenes.
We want to hear from YOU so if you want to be a guest, have a pithy but kind retort, or for business inquiries, drop me a line.
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