Episode 24 - Dar’jon Bentley

Episode 29 - Dem Snyder and Rosemary Needham

For our final episode of Season 4, hosts Charlotte and Abriana sit down with two familiar faces from the Academy community: Dem Snyder and Rosemary Needham. Fresh off graduation, Dem reflects on their Academy experience, favorite memories, and the impact the program has had on their artistic and personal growth. Meanwhile, Rosemary offers a unique perspective as someone who has quite literally grown up around the Academy, spending years watching rehearsals, productions, and classes from the sidelines while eagerly counting down the days until she can officially become a student herself. Together, they discuss what makes the Academy special, how it has shaped their lives in different ways, and what they're most excited about for the future. It's a heartfelt, fun, and fitting conclusion to another incredible season of TECH TALK. Join us as we celebrate the past, look ahead to what's next, and wrap up Season 4 in style! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Episode 28 - Neil Kelly

This episode, hosts Charlotte and Abriana welcome Neil Kelly (Class of 2017) back to the Academy for a conversation about where his journey has taken him since graduation. Neil reflects on his time at the Academy, sharing memories from productions, lessons learned, and even the unforgettable experience of sharing the stage with a five-foot live iguana. Since graduating, he has continued to build an impressive career in the entertainment industry, working across film, television, and live performance while pursuing his passion for acting. Join us as Neil discusses the challenges and rewards of a life in the arts, the opportunities that followed his Academy experience, and the advice he has for the next generation of performers and creators. An episode filled with great stories, career insights, and a few surprises you won't want to miss! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Episode 27 - Nate Bishko

In this episode, hosts Charlotte and Abriana welcome Nate Bishko, Director of Excel TECC, for an insightful conversation about the past, present, and future of Career Technical Education. Nate discusses his role as director, the history and evolution of Excel TECC, and the major trends shaping CTE programs today. He also shares his perspective on how the Academy for the Performing Arts has grown into one of Excel TECC’s showcase programs — a model for innovation, collaboration, and transformative student experiences. A must-listen for anyone interested in education, leadership, and the impact of career tech pathways. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Episode 26 - Mia Roy

This week, hosts Charlotte and Abriana sit down with Mia Roy, who’s visiting Ohio and bringing a wealth of backstage stories with her. Mia shares her journey working as a technician on Broadway, behind the scenes of major fashion shows, industrial events, and more — all leading to her current role as the House Head Electrician at the Palace Theatre. She also gives us an inside look at the theatre’s recent and incredibly unique transformation: a massive engineering feat that lifted the entire historic building three stories above street level. A fascinating blend of artistry, engineering, and real-world theatre magic — you won’t want to miss this episode! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Episode 25 - Taylor Atwara & Paige Weir

In this episode, hosts Charlotte and Abriana check in with two stellar Academy alumni: Paige Weir (Class of 2023) and Taylor Atwara (Class of 2024). Join us as they discuss how college life is treating them so far, what surprises they’ve encountered along the way, and how their time at the Academy helped prepare them for this next chapter of their education. From navigating new campuses to carrying forward the skills and confidence they built here, Paige and Taylor offer insight, honesty, and plenty of encouragement for future grads. Another inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.