Pretend Worlds Real People (Tyler Laracca)

Stephanie sits down with co-host, Tyler, to talk about his career as an actor. We discuss auditioning, his time on set of the movie Wind River, motion capture work, and how creepy Craigslist's ads can actually kickstart your passion!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Victoria Atkin's Workout Class for motion and performance capture. You can find more information about these classes at https://victoriaatkin.com/classes.

This week Tyler turns the mic turns toward co-host Stephanie. She explains what a stage manager does and how she fell in love with the gig. She even shares a "worst experience ever" story about an Oscar-winning actress!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Syracuse University Drama Department

2. Harford Stage Company

3. Lake Dillon Theatre Company

4. Aurora Fox Arts Center

It's our first episode with a guest! Denver local actor and playwright, Iliana Lucero Barron, was a delight to chat with. Her devotion to the LatinX community and to the youth of the Denver community is inspiring. Tune in to hear about how she was inspired to write her first play and learn about that time she fell off a truck during a performance!

*Apologies in advance for any sound issues. Virtual recordings can be tricky!

Shoutouts/Promotions

1. Iliana's website

2. Next Stage - Premiering the ghost stories project in October for which Iliana has written a story

3. Su Teatro

The term "Master of All Trades" is defined by this week's guest, Kaitee Tredway. From dancer to actor to costume designer to puppeteer, this lady can do it all! We had so much fun chatting with her and we hope you enjoy listening.

Shoutouts and Promotions

1. Puppet Showplace in Brookline, MA

2. Kaitee's Etsy shop - Quote Stitch Studio

3. Kaitee's website

The word "visionary" doesn't even begin to describe this week's guest. Ray Holdridge chats with us about discovering his roots as a story teller, his artistic inspirations as an actor, and developing his production company: Smoking Polar Bear Productions. Needless to say, he's the coolest!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Ray's website

This week we are joined by a fantastic human, Ben Whitmore. He tells us about his job as a technical director and how he ended up in that career. It was so fun to hear about the interesting details that go into building a set. Ben also shares with us what it's like to work with the same company for years (a somewhat rare position in the industry) and even has some fun stories about multiple Mandy Moores!

*Apologies for some sound glitches, we had internet difficulties during recording.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Lake Dillon Theatre Company in Silverthorne, Colorado

2. Ben's podcasts: Ignorant & Uninformed, Hailing Frequences Open

Welcome to Junket! This is our midweek minisode where we chat about current events (in the arts), upcoming projects, and what we're up to in these crazy times! Also, junket is a weird name for a dessert...

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Quote Stitch Studio

2. Devil Red Films

3. Calvin T. Shepherd

4. Batman Fan Series

5. Brave Little Theater

6. Gregor's Very, Very Peaceful Garden

This week we chat with the intriguing Leah Watson a.k.a. Grace Skinner. Leah is a Denver film actor, but Greyce is well know in the pole and aerial worlds. We discuss her creative passion with pole and trapeze, the importance body positivity and having personal boundries, and our love of crock pot cooking!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Leah's instagram

2. Greyce's website

3. Steph's favorite winter crockpot recipe from The Pretty Bee

This episode marks a first for the podcast with an in-person guest interview! Carmen Vreeman-Shedd is a Colorado Springs/Denver actor and one of Steph's newest and dearest friends. After being roped into this interview, Carmen shares with us about her journey into theater, what it's like to work solely in the Denver region, why waitressing is not for the thin-skinned, and gushes about her "hot husband."

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College

"Career-hopper" is one way to describe our next guest, but a more accurate phrase would be "curiosity-follower." Josh Gough has always had a massive list of "things he wants to be when he grows up," and has successfully checked some of those things off of it. Currently a freelance tv producer, Josh tells us about his winding journey to his current gig, other careers he's still considering, and even what his dream job would be. We'll give you a hint: he's definitely not a Tony Robbins fan.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Josh's most recently produced show "Answered" can be found for download here.

Our guest this week is a great example of "how to be a boss." Pam Renall has worked in many facets of the film industry and was successful in all of them. Her "go-for-it" attitude and self-confidence was inspiring to witness during this interview. She shares some great insights about the industry, voices her dream of being a "Disney mom," and tells some amazing stories involving some pretty famous names!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Pam's website: https://www.pamrenall.com

2. Invisible Virtual Table Read

3. Our patreon page!

This week we've stepped slightly outside of the theater and film worlds and into the videogame world! Our guest, Webb Pickersgill, is a performance director with Deck Nine Games, a videogame company that specializes in adventure gaming. Webb tells us all about his job, how a videogame gets created from start to finish, and his winding journey through multiple careers that's landed him where he is today. If you're curious about videogames in any sense, this is the perfect episode for you!

Broadway is where stars are born, and this week's guest is a one of the brightest, though it's likely you've never heard her name. Julia Jones has been a Broadway stage manager for 20 years and has made a name for herself in her own right. Her insights into commercial theater, the responsibilities of stage managers, and how the larger theater community can improve going forward are encouraging and worthwhile. Her sense of humor about it all will keep you laughing too!

Shoutouts and Promotions

1. Julia's blog: The Tao of Stage Managing

"The more eyes you have on your material, the better it gets,"  and this week's guest believes in that wholeheartedly. Kris Simms lights up this episode from the Screenwriter's perspective. A Colorado native and massive fan of genre-bending storytelling, he chats with us about his Southwest roots, becoming a screenwriter; and what it's like to produce a film independently. Not to mention he published his first book in 2019. An open and honest conversation about screenwriting and independent film that everybody should check out!

Shoutouts & Promotions:

1. Alien Valley (Amazon Prime)

2. Kris' Book: Red Moon Night

What do you get when you combine an Actor, a DJ, and a Puppeteer?  Rob Wight! 

This week's guest has made a career in entertaining the masses with his wit and physicality. For over ten years he has worked with Imagineers and Star Wars royalty as Push The Talking Trash Can, Tigger, The Grinch; and BOBA FETT. Even gnabbing a role on The Walking Dead! Rob takes us on a journey through is prolific career of taking chances, standing out, and the magic of networking in the arts industry. Above all else, he's a fan and loves what he does. This is the way.

Oh and possible spoilers for The Mandalorian season 2... 

Promotions and Shoutouts:

1. Rob's IMDB

2. Rob's Instagram - Follow Him!

Many words can be used to describe our final guest of 2020: talented, humble, sincere, invested, curious, genuine. Michael Luwoye is all these things and so much more. We chat about his experience as the third rendition of the titular role in the Broadway hit, Hamiliton, the differences between theater and film acting, and his nerd love of The Legend of Zelda. Michael is just the person who's story will help you wrap up the year on a positive note!

Being a professional dancer is the dream job of many young girls, but for today's guest her dream became a reality. Melissa Zaremba is a professional dancer turned choreographer/director with tons of stories to share about her career path. Join us on a wonderful trip down Melissa's memory lane and hear about what it's like to dance on cruises, tours, and with the Rockettes!

The title of "Producer" technically places you as part of the administrative team at a regional theater. One might think that an arts worker in that type of position would focus less on the "art" and more on the "work," but this week's guest proves that idea entirely incorrect. Mark Lunsford is a man dedicated to the art of theater and works hard, with his team, to produce incredible shows every season at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, MA. His work might include budgeting and lots of emails, but without his guidance many a show would end up in the sh*t, one even quite literally!

Crashing through windows, 30-foot freefalls, and being on fire are typical job duties for our guest this week. Talia Dillingham is a professonal stuntwoman, who has some incredible stories to share. She explains the ins and outs of stunt preparation and graciously shares her story of being severely injured while performing a stunt. Her resiliance and recovery is awesome in and of itself, but hearing her talk about her ambitions regardless of her injury make her a grade-A badass.

This week's guest believes that everyone should strive to BE MORE SUPER!

Bryan Garner pops into the studio to share his origin story. He chats with Tyler about his early years in the arts, convention fandom, prop collecting, and what drove him to create BE MORE SUPER the podcast. Similar to the Man of Steel himself, Bryan is one truly remarkable person!

Writer, director, editor; our guest for this episode is a trifecta in film creation. Daniel Ast is an indie film maker based in L.A. who knows what it means to put in a hard days work. He talks with us about his tv series L.A. Macabre, why he likes wearing multiple hats while filming, and how he hopes to continue pursuing his career through and post a pandemic. He and Tyler also geek out about a plethora of different movies leaving Stephanie to consider stepping out for a cup of coffee.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Dan's tv series L.A. Macabre on Amazon Prime

Take action!

This week's guest lives by those very words. Cheryl Texiera is an actress, writer, producer, dancer, and dreamer; who has given one hundred percent of herself to the arts. Her incredible energy and talent have shined in Girl Meets World, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Hoax, and more! She takes PWRP through her career in LA, with plenty of stories to boot!

This is one episode you don't want to miss!

SHOUTOUTS AND PROMOTIONS

1. Cheryl Texiera Youtube Channel

2. Cheryl's Acting Classes

3. Cheryl's Instagram

Write what you know, and use what you have.

Writer/Director John Swab joins the PWRP crew to share his filmmaking journey and chat about his latest film, Body Brokers, available On Demand and Digital on February 19th! An Oklahoma native, John takes us through filming in his home state, what his creative process looks like, the inception of Body Brokers, and what's next on the horizon.

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

1. Body Brokers  

2. The Bobby Lees

The world of sound is a mysterious and magical place. This week's guest lives in this world and does her best to enlighten us to its ways. Stef Senior is a Chicago-based sound designer and engineer who loves her career. Her insight into how these jobs operate and what makes them fulfilling to her is fascinating. She also shares her thoughts on inclusivity in the theatre community and has some delightful stories to tell.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. The podcast: I've Been Meaning to Listen to That

Wonder Woman has nothing on this week's guest!

Amy Floyd wears many capes: as an Actress, Martial Artist, Specialized Stunt & MoCap Performer, and Handmade Cloak Designer! Hailing from the UK, she joins the PWRP crew to share her meteoric journey in acting and stage combat. A career filled with a wide range of characters from Ebeneezer Scrooge to Macbeth; needless to say, Amy is an incredible talent that you can expect to see more of in the years to come!

Shoutouts & Promotions

International Order of the Sword and the Pen

Amy's Handmade Cloaks

Amy's Website

Fireside Folktales

This week's guest wants you to "take the reigns of your pirate ship!"

Jesse Heiman is the World's Greatest Extra, with a career spanning two decades and over 200 credits. There's a big chance you might recognize him from your favorite movie! His love for film and television took him from college graduation, straight to Hollywood, where he'd find his footing in background work. Years later, he's not only gained great success, but a wonderful fan base and some fantastic celebrity friends along the way. Join PWRP as we sit down with this incredible artist!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

Jesse Heiman Instagram

Jesse's Twitter

Jesse's Website 

Make sure if you're chasing it, you're chasing it for the right reasons.

Ladies and gentlemen, Josh Macuga (The Good People Association, Schmoes Know, Film HQ, Between The Sheets) joins the PWRP crew for a brunch-style Sunday episode! You may recognize him as an actor, comedian, writer, and media correspondent. He fills us in on growing up in Pittsburgh, acting in New York, and finding his footing in LA. Take some ibuprofen, this episode will slap a smile on your face!

CONGRATS ON THE BABY, JOSH!!!!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

The Good People Association

Josh's Twitter: @JoshMacuga

" If you don't like what you're doing now, then you're not doing the right thing."

This week Steph and Tyler are joined by Comedian, Writer, and Producer; Sarah Haskins! A creative powerhouse known for TV shows like Trophy Wife, Carol's Second Act, and one of the best comedy's of the last decade; Booksmart. Join us as Sarah shares what it was like starting out as an improv comic, and how she transitioned her career towards writing and producing. Why are you still reading this? Listen to this episode pronto!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

1. Trophy Wife (MUST WATCH)

2. DON'T NEGLECT YOUR BASIC MEDICAL CARE

"Don't give up."

This is the simple, yet necessary advice our guest, Mercedes Roman-Manson, has for you. As the production manager at the Colonial Theater in Boston, MA, Mercedes knows the hardships that face all arts workers, especially during the season of the COVID-19 pandemic. The great thing is that she's not someone who is woefully sitting around waiting for her situation to improve, she is working the best she can to not only make life better for herself, but also for anyone who is in need of assistance. We talk about that and also ghosts, equality in theater, and the unfortunate backstage shenanigans Mercedes has encountered on the job. 

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Mass Live Events Coalition

2. National Live Events Coalition

3. Colorado Event Alliance

4. ExtendPUA.org

5. We See You W.A.T.

This week we dive into the Welsh mind of playwright and director Mêlisa Annis. Having come from a family or arts workers, Mêlisa knows well the struggles and joys of the industry. She shares her insights about the benefits of collaboration between artists, the stages of play development, her new musical The King's Wife, and the changes she hopes to soon see within the theater industry.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Mêlisa's twitter

2. Mêlisa's website

3. The King's Wife instagram

" Stay hungry, work hard, and don't settle."

On this episode of PWRP, we dive back into the world of Broadway through the incredible Derrick Williams. A Broadway star you may recognize from shows like The Book of Mormon, Aida, The Lion King, Smokey Joe's Cafe, and Wicked! Having grown up as both an athlete and a performer, Derrick takes us from his early shows at Busch Gardens, through his meteoric career on Broadway. All while staying hungry for the work and putting everything he has into it. His hard work and determination is enough to inspire all of us in the arts community!

Shoutouts & Promotions:

Derrick's Mom! 

Derrick's IG: @d_d_willy 

"The opportunities are there, even if they're not right in front of you." 

My Date With Drew FANS UNITE! Months of hard work (mostly typing) have led to this moment. In this episode, Tyler sits down with Director, Brian Herzlinger, to chat about finding your footing in the industry and the art of taking chances. In 2003, he had 30 days and $1,100 to get a date with Drew Barrymore. Years later, he's developed a prolific career directing a plethora of films. Needless to say, we were lucky to have him on the show!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

Brian's IG: @brianherzlinger

My Date With Drew

"Be so good, that they can't say no."

Alas, our first exclusive interview on PWRP is live! Tonight's guest is a living badass of rigorous discipline and humble beginnings. Daniel Nelson has spent the last ten years of his career honing his craft as an Actor and Stunt Performer, leading up to his roles in two excellent releases this year: Godzilla vs. Kong and Mortal Kombat! With plenty more to come. What are you waiting for? GET OVER HERE, and check it out!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

MORTAL KOMBAT 

"Invest in yourself."

This week's guest, Christian Reid, believes marketing yourself properly can truly get you places. He should know, not only is he an actor-combatant, he fight directs and choreographs, and runs two separate companies, one for film and the other for theatre. Christian walks us through these various roles and what his hopes for their futures are. We also share some good laughs about the dangers of overexcited fight partners and whether Shakespeare is boring. Don't miss it!

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Christian's Instagram

2. Fire & Iron Productions

3. Fleur de Lis Theatre

"Expand your skill set, be passionate!" 

We're taking you back into the volume of Deck Nine Games as Tyler and Steph sit down with MoCap Technician, Alexis Bloom! After cutting her teeth in Engineering, kicking ass on a robotics team as it turns out; she pivoted her focus towards her life long passion in Animation & Visual Effects. Our talk spans from everything it takes to become a MoCap Tech to what she does to relax after a long day in the volume. Tune in!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

Alexis' Website: alexisjbloom.com

" If it stops being worth it to you, move on."

The PWRP crew is joined by Denver creative wonder, Mariah Diaz! She's a Costume Designer, Filmmaker, Producer, and Writer that worked through the pandemic to launch her production company; Front Porch Studios. Each day, Mariah continues to maintain her rigorous work ethic to continue building her career. She's an inspiring artist that will keep your ears glued throughout this episode!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS:

Front Porch Studios IG

"It doesn't cost me anything to share."

This week, guest Helen Murray walks Stephanie through what it means to be an Executive Producer of a theatre company. Her many years in the theatre industry has shaped her into an incredible and perceptive leader. The two women discuss theatre diversity and community outreach, how a company can produce a season during a pandemic, and how important it is for artists to listen to one another and share in a show's creation.

Shoutouts & Promotions

1. Aurora Fox Arts Center

2. Wonderland: Alice's Rock and Roll Adventure

" There's no single path."

This is an episode ten years in the making. Tyler and Steph are joined by Songwriter, Composer, and Filmmaker; Zack Hemsey. For the last twenty years, he's produced tracks in both collaborative and solo formats across a plethora of genres. His most notable track, "Mind Heist," became the staple for the marketing campaign of Christopher Nolan's INCEPTION! Tune in now!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

BIRTH: Zack's New Documentary

Zack's Website

"Don't wait for someone to give you a job."

Please give a round of applause for this week's guest, Christine Willes! For the last thirty years, you may have seen Christine grace your television screens with her incredible performances in shows like The X-Files, Dead Like Me, and Reaper. In this episode she sits down with Tyler to discuss her beginnings in theater, the transition to TV, and what it takes to carve out a career as an actor. 

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Family Law 

"Always keep writing."

The other half of the Booksmart writing team makes her debut! If you remember our former guest, Sarah Haskins, she mentioned she had a writing partner, Emily Halpern. Emily joins Tyler and Stephanie for a chat about her journey as a screenwriter. From working with David Mamet to being in writers' rooms to managing motherhood and a career, Emily shares many unique experiences that you'll love to hear!

" Find what you love, make your own work."

This week, we're joined by the incredibly talented, Emma King-Farlow! The donner of several different hats in the world of theater. As a Writer, Director, and Producer; Emma has created both fantastically-original worlds, as well as genre bending adaptations of classic works for the stage. She takes Steph and Tyler through her battle with stage fright, finding her niche in writing, and spreading mental health awareness in the arts industry. What are you doing? Check it out!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Shadow Road Productions

-Fireside Folktales

"Challenge yourself to do something you love, instead of something you don't care about." Building your career in the arts industry is hard enough, a constant uphill battle. It takes a warrior's spirit to keep on. This week's guest has fought tooth and nail to build his career, and he doesn't plan on stopping. Kenneth Fok is a South African actor who has appeared in films like Safe House (2012) and Tomb Raider (2017), before nabbing a recurring role on Cinemax's WARRIOR. He shares some fantastic stories of his start, along with surreal experiences with Oscar winners, that will keep your ears perked to the very end. SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS WARRIOR (Currently on HBO MAX)

"There's no one way." We venture into the other side, on this week's episode of Pretend Worlds Real People! Michael McMillian joins Steph and Tyler in between recordings of his addictive paranormal podcast, Bigfoot Collectors Club, to share his story. Having built his career as an actor and writer, with humble beginnings in theater, Michael shares a cluster of stories that had our hosts splitting sides. Let's do this! SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS -Good On Paper (Netflix) -Bigfoot Collectors Club -B.C.C. The Other Side -Instagram: @mcmillzz

"Find a way." For a 19-year-old Italian man, his way involved moving to England and over the next 20 years assimilating into British life. Fed Zanni is a London-based actor who has worked hard at his craft, earning himself some wonderful roles. He shares with us what it was like to be a young Italian in London, what it took to establish himself as an actor, and he has some incredible "day-in-the-life" stories. This interview will make you smile from start to finish! Shoutouts & Promotions 1. Mamma Mia! The Party (UK) 2. Instagram for High Pitch 3. Fed's personal training website: Moving Mountains Fitness

"Do anything, and make it."

This week's guest has built his career through bare knuckled innovation and his love for the visual narrative. After kicking cancer in the butt, and operating as a motivational speaker, he rekindled his love for videography and hasn't looked back. Woody Roseland is a Denver based Writer, Director, and Filmmaker, who consistently cranks out incredible projects and should be on everyone's radar!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

- @woodyroseland

- @thedleague

We've got a unique episode for you this week! Stephanie has an in-person interview with her current production team for the play "Where Did We Sit on the Bus?" Satya (actress/musician), Matt (director), and Brian (playwright) have been working on this piece together for over a year. This summer will be the first time it will be staged before a live audience. The group talks about the play, as well as their personal experiences in the theater industry. The conversation is genuine, insightful, and filled with hilarity; you're going to enjoy every minute of it! Shoutouts & Promotions 1. Where Did We Sit on the Bus? - Performing at CSFAC and Cleveland Play House 2. Refuge - Performing at Curious Theatre Company, Theatre Lab FAU, Unicorn Theatre 3. Somewhere Over the Border - Performing at Syracuse Stage, Geva Theatre Center, Chicago

We've got another team interview this week! A trio of artists, based in the UK, are working together to create a Viking-themed, stage-fighting, metal musical called Blódlina. Vicky Clubb (orchestrator), Nathan Rees (book writer & lyricist), and Marcus Wood (composer & lyricist) have a great dynamic and a clear passion for their work. In this episode, they tell us all about Blódlina (and how to pronounce it), what led them to start working together, and where they hope the show goes in the future. We also learn that Vicky is a badass who fights with longswords as a hobby, there are lots of bizarre number (license) plates in the UK, and that Human Centipede the musical exists even though it shouldn't. Enjoy!

" Learn to trust your gut." PWRP is joined by Colorado-based Actress and Screenwriter, KATHRYN GOULD! She's studied under some of the biggest names in screenwriting over the last ten years, with several of her shorts winning awards in numerous festivals. Even penning the horror film,  Apartment 212, despite being absolutely frightened by the genre! She takes us through her journey from High School Valedictorian, to Stanford graduate, to becoming one of the founding members of the Colorado Chapter of Women in Film. There's so much more packed into this episode, tune in now! SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS -Kathryn Gould website -Apartment 212

Our guest this week is a UK actor who, like many of us, is doing all he can to make a career out of what he loves. Alexander Clark is following all the paths available to make his mark; studying, auditioning, and writing his own features and shorts. His story is relatable and a nice reminder that everyone in the arts needs to be willing to grind a bit to get what they want.

It's here! We've produced 50 episodes of Pretend Worlds Real People, and couldn't be more excited/exhausted about it! Steph and Tyler thought they'd share their experiences producing the podcast and the ever-changing status of the arts industry throughout 2021. Thank you to all of our supporters!

" Find the joy of your life outside of the industry." This week, Tyler is joined by the incredible KURT YUE (Dopesick, Haunting of Hill House, Insatiable)! An Atlanta-based performer who has fully embraced the industry as a working actor. In less than a decade, he has amassed 58 credits on IMDB, and worked alongside some of the biggest talent in Film & TV. He also runs the Acting Career Center, a Youtube channel devoted to sharing his experiences in the industry and educating those looking to pave their own way. This is a perfect episode for actors of all types and experiences! SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS -Acting Career Center -Dopesick

This episode is a true conversation between old and new friends! Dale Raven and Cieran Ryan have been comrades since their teens. Over the course of their friendship, they've created their film company, Pale Raven Pictures, and most recently wrapped up production on their short film, Myrlan. These two gents were so willing to chat Steph and Tyler barely needed to ask any questions. It's a longer episode, but it's worth the listen! Shoutouts & Promotions 1. Pale Raven Pictures 2. Myrlan Film

“Keep going.”

After a few weeks off, we’re returning with a whole new slate of PWRP. This week’s guest is the radiant Megan Elisabeth Kelly, a Colorado-based Actress, Musician, and Film Aficionado! She joins the PWRP crew to talk about her rising career, the early days, and her incredible experience shooting her new film, INTRUSION, now available on Netflix. You better hit that play button!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Intrusion (Available on Netflix)

-Who Needs You (Currently showing in festivals)

"Try to dip into the deep end of the pool. You'll swim." Laughs are abound in these week's episode. Tyler and Stephanie sit down with Actor, Comedian, and Filmmaker, Gary Miller! The Best Worst Cantina creator has taken the pandemic by the horns in creating wildly hilarious sketches, shorts, and comedy albums featuring your favorite party dads. He sprinkles in his start in theater through sports and the odd logistics of a Lifetime love scene! Get to listening!!! SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS -Best Worst Cantina Media

“Dig as deep as you have to, to find that confidence.”

 This week PWRP hops into Doc Brown’s Delorean with Rosanna “Rosie” Hyland, star of Back to the Future: The Musical, currently showing in London’s West End! Rosie punches this podcast to 88mph as she shares her 3+ year journey bringing Lorraine Baines to the stage, her global experience finding her place in theater, and more!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Back to the Future: The Musical

This week's guest is one of those people that you may not think about when watching a show, but you'd immediately notice if they weren't around to do their job. Rather than working on stage or screen, Sarah Levine works behind the scenes styling hair and wigs for TV and theater performers. She shares her story and offers some great insight into all the people whose arts careers don't involve acting. It was a blast talking with Sarah and we hope you enjoy it too!

“If you can make them laugh or cry, you can make them think.”

Gary Farmer is an Actor and Musician with a dynamic career that spans over fifty years in theater, film, and television. His most recent roles have filled the frames of Resident Alien, Reservation Dogs, and The Curse. Gary has also served as an advocate for indigenous health and livelihood in Canada and the United States. Here, he discusses the beginning of his artistic journey, fighting for the betterment of indigenous communities, and the importance of studying your culture.

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Fancy Dance by Erica Tremblay

-Boil Alert w/ Layla Staats

“Take as much pride in whatever position it is you’re currently doing, and trust that it is an important step for where you need to go.”

Where in the world is Natasha Walford? PWRP is joined by the nomadic Producer, Writer, and Assistant Director during production of Guardian’s of the Galaxy Vol. III! Having cut her teeth on various projects in Australia with a hunger for more, Natasha moved to Canada where she continued building her resume as an Assistant Director. After working with James Gunn on Peacemaker, she moved down to Atlanta and hasn’t looked back. Tune in as she shares her career goals, a pair of comfort shows, and plans for the future!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Peacemaker

-Liberated

-The Drip (Atlanta)

“Don’t lose the joy in the process.”

We’re back! And we’re coming in hot with this week’s guest, Matthew Kevin Anderson. Having grown up performing for both family and stage, Matthew would set his sights on Vancouver Film School in his teens. His career would take off after graduation hosting for Canada’s MTV Select! Since then, Matthew has worked on amazing projects like: Supernatural, Impastor, Trick ‘r’ Treat, Turner & Hooch, and Skymed!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-SeaLegacy (Ocean Conservation)

-Skymed

Live from Youtube!

Steph and Tyler reunite with the fantastic Adelle Drahos for PWRP's first ever live stream! Adelle is joined by her LARPer co-stars: Adetinpo Thomas (Black Lightning), Robert Walker Branchaud (The Walking Dead), and Clayton English (A.P. Bio), to chat about their experiences on Hawkeye, 2022 so far, and play a game of Co-Star Trivia!

Tune in with friend of the show, Matthew Smaldone, as he discusses his upcoming feature film, The Scars of Our Hands! Filmed entirely in Colorado, this epic fable follows two brothers as they trek through The Rockies to stop an arsonist. Matthew and his crew at Chameleon are the ones to watch in the years ahead, so don't sleep on this one. Catch the premiere here in Denver on August 18th at The Oriental Theater!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Reserve your Premiere Tickets!

-The Scars of Our Hands (Trailer)

-Chameleon Film Studios

“Don’t be precious with your work.”

This week, we’re honored to welcome Matthew Smaldone to the show! He’s an actor, writer, director, producer, and teacher, with an undying passion for storytelling. With a handful of shorts and two features under his belt, he’s looking to further hone his acting craft with fellow artists in Colorado. Catch up with Matthew as he shares his experiences in theater, sorting problems on set, and what art truly means to him!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Life & Death

-The Scars of Our Hands

-@chameleonfilmstudios

“Make sure you understand why.”

We’re kicking off this Halloween season with the incredibly talented, Phi Vu! He’s a New Orleans-based Actor who literally danced his way into the entertainment industry. After taking a theater class in college, Phi would pivot his focus away from medical school and towards the arts. Since then, he has quickly built a career with roles in Logan, Pitch Perfect 2, Happy Death Day, and Happy Death Day 2U!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Early Risers

-Unintended Accidental Getaway Driver

“Remember that this is a lifestyle.”

Lauren Phillips began dancing in high school, eventually graduating Rutgers University with her degree. For a while, she worked as a dance teacher and a nanny, until a friend referred her to webcam modeling. By 2013, Lauren made a leap into the adult film industry and quickly took it by storm. Since then, she has built her own online empire through several businesses, including Onlyfans. Tune in as she shares her story with Tyler, with a few nerdy moments regarding Hogwarts Houses.

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Lauren Phillips.com

-@laurenfillsup

-Pineapple Support

“You have to have this resilience of knowing who you are.”

You may recognize this week’s guest as one of the most influential character actors of the last twenty five years. Michael Weston grew up in an industry family but set his sights on sports rather than the arts at a young age. This would change once he attended Northwestern and dove headfirst into the theater program. Since then, he’s lived all over the world and built a prolific career on both the stage and screen. His most notable projects include: Garden State, Home Before Dark, Pathology, House, and The Brooklyn Brothers Beat the Best!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Bark (Coming Soon)

Happy New Year!

“Comparison is the thief of joy.”

We’re back with the incomparable Actor, Writer, and Producer: Aubry Pullara. This Colorado native found her love for acting in elementary school, during a production of Beauty & The Beast. After college, she shipped out to New York where she found opportunity in films like How To Be Single and Ben Is Back. Since 2020, she’s focused on producing her own work while acting in a variety of projects. CAUTION: this interview will go off the rails!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-CU Depression Center

“Don’t write off the trades that go into making a film.”

Denver Film Festival is now in sight, and this week PWRP is joined by visionary filmmaker, Geoff Marslett! Though a physicist and mathematician previously, Geoff reconnected with his love of cinema through film school. Teaching himself how to animate in the process. Here, Marslett highlights his earlier career, the fundamentals of independent film, and the true nature of the multiverse theory. His newest film, Quantum Cowboys, is taking over the festival circuit with it’s mind-bending visuals and cosmic narrative!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Quantum Cowboys

-The Phantom52

-Denver Film Festival

-Support Film Festivals!

PWRP Vault Re-Release | Initial Release (08/17/2022):

"Can we get some more bread?"

This week, we have some incredible guests reunite for a special PWRP Livestream! Sara Tomko, Meredith Garretson, Elizabeth Bowen, and Alice Wetterlund catch us up on their summer vacations, filming together, and what's next. Both heartfelt moments and laughs are abound in this episode, so smash that play button!

...And don't forget to leave a 5 Star Review!

"Do some exploring."

This week, PWRP is joined by fellow Rocky Mountain Native, Mike Houston. After moving to Boston, Mike rekindled his passion for acting during a career shift. Upon graduating from The William Esper Studio's Two Year Sanford Meisner Intensive Acting Program, he soon hit a launchpad on the TV show, Brotherhood. Since then, Mike has appeared in fantastic titles like: Sneaky Pete, Boardwalk Empire, The Blacklist. Orange is the New Black, and She Said. Here, Mike reflects on his start, what it means to be a working actor, and the pertinence of the performing arts!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Bury Me When I'm Dead

-Joker: Folie À Deux

"Be in the moment."

"Being prepared is the best way to relax."

Suteara Vaughn and Jaedon Rio, of The Girl in the Pool, join the show to share their experience working on the film. Tune in as they touch on memorable on-set moments, preparation practices, and working with industry legends like Monica Potter, Kevin Pollak, and Freddie Prinze Jr!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-The Girl in the Pool

“Having an outlet that’s your own is so important.”

Lucie Guest is an Actor, Director, and Writer who has crafted an incredible career on both sides of the camera. Her immense talent for story telling placed her as one of the Top Ten Filmmakers to Watch in 2017! She joins PWRP to chat about her experiences working throughout the pandemic, spiritual awakenings in Bali, and sending VHS short films to Steven Soderberg. Plus, there’s a fair amount of laughs in this episode. Perfect for your morning commute!

SHOUTOUTS  & PROMOTIONS

-Disappearance in Yellowstone

“Listen to others when you have a chance to speak.”

Have you ever thought about leaving your corporate job to tackle the entertainment industry? This week’s guest gave the finger to corporate America to pursue her dream of performing. Nicole C. Page is an L.A. based actress, model, and performer who dove into the industry full time following a spiritual awakening in the jungles of South America. For the last few years, she’s utilized her musical talent, multilingualism, and rigorous work ethic to make that dream a reality. Expect to see more of her on both the small and silver screen!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Nicole’s Instagram

“Be your true self.”

This week, Tyler is joined by Content Creator, Powerlifter, and Adult Film Star, Siri Dahl. Siri joined the industry after college and quickly found success in the 2010s. Since her retirement in 2015, she has built a thriving catalogue of online content through various channels in addition to her powerlifting career. She fills PWRP in on what helps her decompress, Star Wars v. Star Trek, and her plans for the future.

*Revision: the Free Speech Coalition (FSC) was founded in 1991. 

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Siridahl.com

-savethecorn.com

“Don’t take rejection personally.”

This week’s guest has taken the arts industry head on for the last ten years. Jarreau Benjamin is a Manchester-based actor, writer, and producer who caught the acting bug by helping a friend with an audition tape. Since then, he’s left his football roots behind to pursue the craft. Catch him in the upcoming reboot, Jeepers Creepers: Reborn!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Jeepers Creepers: Reborn

“Be humble in a way that’s honest.”

Dileep Rao has worked with some of the most prolific artists in the entertainment industry. His talents span from cinematic blockbusters like Inception and Avatar, to his theatrical performances on stage. His love for not only the craft of acting itself, but his perspective, made for a fantastic chat in this week’s episode. You can catch him now in James Cameron’s Avatar: The Way of Water, currently demolishing the box office by the way. You won’t want to miss this!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Avatar: The Way of Water

“Stay curious.”

Sit down with the PWRP crew with this week’s guest, Maria Sten! You may recognize her from her breakout role as Jillian in Channel Zero: The Dream Door,  Liz Tremayne in Swamp Thing, or Francis Neagley in Reacher. Maria shares her journey from professional dancer to diving headfirst into acting. Utilizing her free time to travel around the world to some of the most remote destinations. Tune in to all of this and more!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Reacher

-The Thirst Project

Recorded 07/20/2022

“You have to really believe in it, believe in yourself, believe in your ability.”

For our 100th interview, PWRP is joined by the incredibly talented, Kiowa Gordon. He walks us through the years following franchise fame, navigating the industry, and finding himself.

“Make sure your bases are covered.”

This week’s guest is on a meteoric rise in the film industry. Natasha Kermani is a Director and Screenwriter, known for Imitation Girl, Shattered, Lucky, and the upcoming, V/H/S 85. In this special episode, Natasha discusses finding her love for film, moving from NYC to LA, and navigating the writing process! Listen if you dare!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Lucky

-V/H/S 99

-Support Iran Freedom

-Be aware of global events!

“Ask for more advice.”

PWRP is headed back down under as Actor, Writer, Producer, and TikToker; Bel Larcombe, joins the show! After leaving her studies in chemical engineering behind, Bel set her sights on her love for theater. Performing and producing numerous musicals and comedic pieces. In 2020, she would ascend the ladder of Reality TV production, where she now serves as a Producer. She’s also an acclaimed influencer, did we mention that? You don’t want to miss this episode!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Help support The Victorian Pride Centre (Melbourne)

“Write something you are passionate about.”

Cue the coffee machine and cozy blankets, we’re headed to the U.K. for a late night interview with Bob Schultz! Since 2001, Bob has built a career as a screenwriter following his departure from the I.T. industry. With a great love for the craft and film itself, he quickly began networking with industry giants; even developing a career on the lecture circuit. His latest project is currently being adapted into a graphic novel. Press that play button!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-London Screenwriters Festival

-Power Tool Cheerleaders

-Support Independent Film

“If you love it, stick with it.”

This week’s guest is Texas raised Skater turned Actor, Akie Kotabe. With limited experience, he left his Computer Science major behind to pursue his dream of acting on camera. This life changing transition led to him teaching English in Japan, finding a second home in England, and embodying characters alongside some of the most prolific artists in the world. You can catch him in The Batman (currently streaming on HBO MAX), and the upcoming film, The Son.

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Passenger List 

-The Batman

Hope you're ready for this impromptu, overly-caffeinated episode! Tyler dives into working in a regional market, the pertinence of acting classes, the great job hunt, and what lies ahead for PWRP. 

Gear up for a zany and fun livestream recording with past guests: Katie McElhenney (Mythic Quest, It's Always Sunny) and Cait Duffy (Reacher, Scorpion). We dive into the differences in writer's rooms post-pandemic, decompressing from work, and what they've been watching this summer!

“Be in your own life.”

If you’re a fan of both independent and mainstream horror then you definitely recognize this week’s guest. Katie Parker is a Los Angeles-based Actress known for projects like: Absentia, Oculus, The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep, and The Haunting of Bly Manor. She sits down with Tyler to talk about her journey to LA, finding confidence in her career, and the importance of controlling anxiety as a performer. Catch her later this year in the upcoming film, Next Exit; and Mike Flanagan’s The Fall of the House of Usher!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Next Exit

-Boys and Girls Club

-AIDS Foundation

"Never take anything personally."

"Don't judge yourself for where you are."

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We're ringing in 2024 with two amazing artists and best friends, Ruby Modine and Suteara Vaughn. This energetic conversation reflects upon their first interaction, working on Shameless, collaborating in the self-tape process, and future creative endeavors. Strap in for this electric reunion!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

- Shameless

- Birds of Empire (Podcast)

“Get to know yourself really, really well.”

Join me in welcoming the dynamic Genevieve Gionet to PWRP! Genevieve spent most of her upbringing on the ice as a competitive figure skater. Following a bad injury, she turned to theater as a performance outlet and hasn’t looked back. Now she’s pursuing a career in film/tv when she’s not working for the Prague Shakespeare Company!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Prague Shakespeare Company

-Evergreen Parks & Recreation District

-Bistro Del Lago (Evergreen)

“Don’t let someone else’s experiences color your own.”

Kelsey Edwards is an L.A. based Actor, Musician, and Content Creator who returned to this crazy business shortly after college. Looking back on her performative upbringing on stage and camera, she left corporate America behind to pursue her love of the arts. Join us as Kelsey talks about her move to Los Angeles, Working in different regions, becoming a content creator, and more!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Wagmor Pets (Non-Profit)

-@Kelseymarieedwards

“It’s important to talk to people in the industry.”

Caution: Laughs are abound in this week’s episode! Stranger Things star and Atlanta based actress, Regina Ting Chen, joins PWRP just in time for the premiere of Volume Two. Having grown up as a theatrical kid, Regina always had a wild imagination. This would eventually lead to a successful modeling career, then a quick pivot into acting. She shares her sheltered upbringing, love for sci-fi, joining Stranger Things as a fan, and her badass kickboxing!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Year Up Organization 

“Stay curious.”

It's time for a PWRP Vault Release with this week’s guest, Maria Sten! You may recognize her from her breakout role as Jillian in Channel Zero: The Dream Door,  Liz Tremayne in Swamp Thing, or Francis Neagley in Reacher. Maria shares her journey from professional dancer to diving headfirst into acting. Utilizing her free time to travel around the world to some of the most remote destinations. Tune in to all of this and more!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Reacher

-The Thirst Project

“Be true to yourself.”

Crank up the volume for this week’s episode with Actor, Writer, and Producer, Dorian Brown Pham! After joining acting classes in the pursuit of a celebrity crush, Dorian found an immense love for the craft. Years later, she’s built a dynamic career in theater, film, and television. Her next creative endeavor includes screenwriting, with a plethora of projects on the desk. She highlights her start in Los Angeles, exposing the creative process, writing a pilot, and raising a family while balancing her career. 

“Never stop learning.”

Horror fans rejoice! This week, Mirabai Pease joins the show following her breakout role in Evil Dead Rise. However, she’s far from a novice when it comes the the TV/Film industry. Having been raised around film sets in her youth, this New Zealand native decided to take a stab at acting during school. In a short amount of time, she’s risen (pun intended) meteorically, with so much more in store!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Evil Dead Rise

-The Gulf

"Following your own compass is the way to go."

Colorado-based director, Calvin Shepherd, joins the PWRP crew just in time for the release of his newest film; Safehouse 1618. For the last five years, this tour de force creator has produced numerous features throughout Colorado on shoestring budgets. His genre-bending style and rigorous work ethic are sure to refresh the independent film industry for years to come! You can watch Safehouse 1618  now through December 15th, at www.ahith.com!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-Safehouse 1618

-Calvin Shepherd

“You just have to do it.”

This week’s guest is the incredibly witty Actor and Comedian, Devora Wilde! While at university, she pursued a degree in Fashion Journalism before transitioning into drama school and venturing into acting. She soon found incredible success as a Voiceover and Mo-Cap Actor with numerous credits to her name. Devora talks about career pivots, the nature of motion capture performance, taking a comedy class, and if pistachios grow on trees.

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-The Breakfast Club (London)

“Love what you do enough that you don’t care about success.”

If you’re a fan of stand up comedy or gut busting television shows, you’ve witnessed the immense talent of this week’s guest, Alice Wetterlund. With the drive and determination to be a performer at a young age, she found her footing during an Improv class after college. Through a combination of Open Mic Nights and Improv shows, Alice cut her teeth in comedy and quickly found commercial work. She chats with PWRP about paving her own career, embracing what you love, and keeping yourself grounded in the arts industry. You can catch her now as D’Arcy in SyFy’s Resident Alien.

SHOUTOUTS AND PROMOTIONS

-Alicewetterlund.com

-My Mama is a Human and So Am I

"Don't give up."

This week, we're joined by the incredibly talented actor, Jeff Holman. You've seen his comedic chops steal the scene in shows like Yellowjackets, Minx, Parks & Rec, and Amazon's Being The Ricardos. He opens up about finding his passion for performance in the first grade, making the jump to LA, and finding your power in the process!

SHOUTOUTS & PROMOTIONS

-West Side Rescue Mission

-Denver Zoo 

“Don’t believe that you know everything.”

For over twenty years, this week’s guest has worked on some of the most intricately designed creatures, and the goriest of gory effects to grace the screen. Carey Jones is a Special FX/Makeup Artist and Actor, who’s resume consists of: Sin City, The Walking Dead, Drag Me To Hell, Lovecraft Country, and more! He most recently joined the Star Wars universe as the badass gladiator, Black Krrsantan, in The Book of Boba Fett! Carey talks about hitting the pavement for a job in LA, working with his heroes, and what it feels like to be a Star Wars fan working on a Lucasfilm production!

Shoutouts & Promotions

-The Book of Boba Fett

-Carey’s Instagram

“It’s fun and it shouldn’t be taken too seriously.”

Since the early 2010s, Josh Brener has catapulted into the comedic stratosphere with memorable roles in Silicon Valley, Old Dads, Mythic Quest, and more! As the pandemic slowed things down, Josh kept his focus on his voice acting work and pitching his own projects. Oh, and if you thought sharing a drink with someone was awkward, imagine Wolverine taking a swig of your old fashioned… Tune in!