Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard - The Intimacy Professional

Candido Cornejo Jr & Jesse James Keitel - Intentional Casting

Jesse James Keitel and Candido Cornejo Jr, actor/writer and casting director respectively, speak to advocacy, intentional casting, and their trans-identity & experiences navigating the casting process and on set in a climate that’s healthy, safe and creative both as artists and for artists.   Read more about Jesse and Candido here. [https://inthepodlight.com/about-5#candido-jesse]   Takeaways   * Intentional casting is crucial for authentic representation. * Trans creatives face unique challenges in Hollywood. * Advocacy can be a natural byproduct of being oneself. * Breaking stereotypes is essential for diverse storytelling. * The industry often reduces trans identities to tokenism. * Education on trans issues is still necessary in the industry. * Personal experiences shape professional journeys in the arts. * Representation must go beyond visibility to include authenticity. * Trans stories should be told by trans individuals. * Navigating identity in the workplace requires courage and clarity. We need time, we need money, we need resources. * There is a space for you that you can be an actor. * Intentional casting can ease emotional burdens. * Being a trans woman has been the biggest gift to my career. * We need to start questioning what is your intention with this? * We need more training and development opportunities. * It's important to remember what makes us happy. * Acting is so fun, but I absolutely hate Hollywood. * The duality of being different can be both a gift and a burden.   Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Trans Creatives in Hollywood 02:06 - Intentional Casting and Authentic Representation 06:14 - Navigating Identity and Career Challenges 10:04 - The Role of Advocacy in the Arts 14:04 - Breaking Stereotypes in Casting 17:54 - Educating the Industry on Trans Representation 21:48 - Personal Experiences and Professional Challenges 28:12 - The Challenge of Finding Talent 31:03 - Encouraging Diversity in Acting 34:35 - The Burden of Representation 37:54 - Intentional Casting and Its Importance 40:35 - Dreams and Aspirations in the Industry 45:46 - The Duality of Being Different 50:00 - Finding Joy in the Journey   Connect with Candido on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/kissedbyloki?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Jesse on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessejameskeitel?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Caroline on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itscarolineliem?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Grant on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/grantesinferno?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with In The Podlight on the Website [https://www.inthepodlight.com/]   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands [https://www.pace.edu/sands] * The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Kim Williams - The Power of Elevating Stories

Casting Executive and Producer Kim Williams strives to elevate the industry, making a significant impact both on-screen and behind the scenes. Kim discusses how her degree in sociology informs her career, particularly in understanding the dynamics of human behavior, collaboration, and social networks. She emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and shares her passion for mentoring the next generation of artists.   Read more about Kim here. [https://inthepodlight.com/about-5#kimwilliams]   Takeaways   * Kim Williams emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling. * She believes in saying yes to opportunities to build a career. * Navigating personalities in collaboration is crucial for success. * Understanding one's identity helps in making informed decisions. * Casting is about bringing characters to life, not just matching actors to roles. * Diversity and representation are central to her casting philosophy. * Kim advocates for authenticity in casting decisions. * She finds talent in various aspects of her life, not just auditions. * The casting director's role is vital in shaping narratives. * Mentorship and legacy are important to her as she guides others.   Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Kim Williams and Her Journey 03:06 - The Role of a Casting Director 05:51 - Navigating Opportunities and Scarcity Mindset 09:00 - Instincts in Project Selection 11:51 - Collaboration and Navigating Personalities 15:06 - The Impact of Storytelling on Audiences 17:53 - Authenticity and Representation in Casting 21:06 - Finding Talent and the 'It' Factor 23:53 - The Importance of Casting in Film 27:08 - Mentorship and Legacy in the Industry 30:03 - Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles 32:48 - Future Goals and Aspirations 36:03 - Lightning Round and Personal Insights   Connect with Kim on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/kwillli?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Caroline on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itscarolineliem?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Grant on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/grantesinferno?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with In The Podlight on the Website [https://www.inthepodlight.com/]   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands [https://www.pace.edu/sands] * The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Sammi Cannold & Liam Pearce - Neurodiversity and Inclusion on Broadway

Sammi Cannold and Liam Pearce, director and actor respectively, from Broadway's award winning How To Dance in Ohio discuss the impact of the show in de-stigmatizing neurodiversity, accessibility and accommodations on our sets, stages, and community, how the casting process and production embodied equal parts art and activism, and the meaning of the key motto in the disability and autistic communities “nothing about us without us.”    Read more about Sammi and Liam here. [https://inthepodlight.com/about-5#sammi-cannold-liam-pearce]   Takeaways   * The importance of authentic representation in theater. * Creating a role as an autistic actor is groundbreaking. * The journey of How to Dance in Ohio is deeply personal. * Inclusivity in casting leads to a richer creative process. * The show aims to change perceptions of autism in society. * Accessibility for audiences is crucial for engagement. * The collaborative nature of the production was unique. * Neurodiversity should be embraced in all creative spaces. * The mission of the show is to foster understanding. * Future productions should continue the conversation about autism.   Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to In the Podlight 01:00 - The Journey of How to Dance in Ohio 06:05 - Casting and Production Process 09:50 - Identity and Representation in Theater 15:08 - Creating an Inclusive Environment 19:54 - Audience Accessibility and Engagement 24:51 - Future Aspirations and Impact of the Show 30:07 - Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts   Connect with Sammi on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sammi.cannold?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Liam on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/capeusa?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==]   Check out How To Dance in Ohio on their website [https://howtodanceinohiomusical.com/] Check out &Juliet on their website [https://andjulietbroadway.com/] Connect with Caroline on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itscarolineliem?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Grant on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/grantesinferno?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with In The Podlight on the Website [https://www.inthepodlight.com/]   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands [https://www.pace.edu/sands] * The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Michelle Sugihara - Moving The Needle With CAPE

Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director of CAPE, shares how the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment is fostering collaboration among diverse organizations, creating a supportive network within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, coalition-building, and amplifying voices and driving systemic change on stage and in front of and behind the camera.   Read more about Michelle here. [https://inthepodlight.com/about-5#michelle-k-sugihara]   Takeaways   * CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991. * Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers. * The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices. * Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories. * The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional. * Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking. * CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals. * Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other. * The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices. * Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks. * The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability. * Community support is vital for artists to flourish.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara 02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs 04:50 Impact of Representation in Media 08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement 12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE 15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation 19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices 22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations   Connect with Michelle on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/michsugi?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with CAPE on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/capeusa?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Check out CAPE on their website [https://www.capeusa.org/link?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZpAz66HXY_pVIdbRYrAYFGjDJD9zqv6nZFXpGu4RudPL_RMfIiRZw-CYc_aem_T-i8uUJyYjlJ9camXZZILw] Connect with Caroline on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itscarolineliem?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Grant on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/grantesinferno?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with In The Podlight on the Website [https://www.inthepodlight.com/]   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands [https://www.pace.edu/sands] * The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard - The Intimacy Professional

Intimacy Professionals Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard, open a window to the role of intimacy directors, choreographers and educators on stage and screen. We discuss navigating the complexities of power dynamics, and their commitment to creating safe, empowering spaces where all voices are respected and where the stories of underrepresented communities are told with integrity and care on stage and screen.   Read more about Raja & Greg here. [https://inthepodlight.com/about-5#raja-benz--greg-geffrard]   Takeaways * Intimacy professionals advocate for ethical representation in performance. * Creating a consent-based environment is crucial for safety. * Cultural competency is essential in intimacy work. * The role of intimacy professionals is evolving in the industry. * Comfort and discomfort are inherent in storytelling. * Intimacy work requires understanding power dynamics. * Education in intimacy practices is vital for future generations. * Resistance to intimacy professionals often stems from misunderstanding their role. * The intimacy field must address barriers to entry for diverse voices. * Advocacy for vulnerable individuals in performance spaces is essential. * Regional theaters are crucial for developing new works and voices. * Casting in regional theater involves a different set of challenges compared to film and TV. * The pandemic has significantly impacted the economics of regional theater. * Advocating for representation in casting is an ongoing effort. * Success in the arts is not a binary of pass or fail. * Actors can thrive outside of major cities like New York and LA. * Building relationships in the industry is key to long-term success. * Personal values should align with professional goals in the arts. * The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability. * Community support is vital for artists to flourish.   Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Intimacy Professionals 02:36 - Understanding the Role of Intimacy Professionals 06:50 - Creating Safe Spaces in Performance 10:40 - Navigating Comfort and Discomfort in Storytelling 15:41 Cultural Competency in Intimacy Work 19:57 - The Intersection of Identity and Intimacy 26:33 - Progress and Challenges in the Field 32:42 - The Future of Intimacy Work 36:22 - Addressing Resistance and Legitimacy 40:34 - The Role of Power Dynamics 48:37 - Who Advocates for Intimacy Professionals? 54:21 - Conclusion and Future Directions   Connect with Raja on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/raja.in.rehearsal?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Greg on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gregarious86?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Check out The Den Theatre in Chicago on their website [https://thedentheatre.com/performances/2024/9/6/beneath-the-willow-tree-pulse-theatre-chicago-the-den-theatre] Check out Actor’s Express Theatre in Atlanta on their website [https://actors-express.com/play-page-a-third-way/] Check out Nothing Without A Theatre in Chicago on their website [http://www.nothingwithoutacompany.org/sofa-king-queer] Connect with Caroline on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itscarolineliem?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with Grant on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/grantesinferno?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] Connect with In The Podlight on the Website [https://www.inthepodlight.com/]   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands [https://www.pace.edu/sands] * The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.