https://www.spreaker.com/show/the-artist-mattersenLeisureCopyright TheArtistMattershttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/17dfee1fe8949e31b62a6df5b1cd5076.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/show/the-artist-mattersFri, 28 Jan 2022 12:20:05 +0000TheArtistMattersTheArtistMattersartistmatters1@gmail.comWelcome to The Artist Matters. Each episode we are going to meet artists from all walks of life. Actors, painters, writers, singers, dancers and so many more. You will hear how their art has helped them overcome struggles and obstacles, start their...yesserialTheArtistMattersartistmatters1@gmail.comWelcome to The Artist Matters. Each episode we are going to meet artists from all walks of life. Actors, painters, writers, singers, dancers and so many more. You will hear how their art has helped them overcome struggles and obstacles, start their own businesses and leave a more positive mark on the world . Be inspired by their stories to either start a career of your own or just have fun being creative.Yeshttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/welcome-to-the-artist-mattershttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/16855930Mon, 04 Mar 2019 12:15:16 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to The Artist Matters premiere episode. It's a little get to know me and my artistic journey. And what the show will be about.2039art,artist,artpodcast,create,creativity,interview,podcast,stories,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to The Artist Matters premiere episode. It's a little get to know me and my artistic journey. And what the show will be about.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/laurie-davisThat's how today's guest, Laurie Ann Davis felt when she was a kid. But once she found acting, she knew where she belonged.
Playing Anne Frank was the catalyst to push her to pursue this as a career. Taking classes. Auditioning. Getting roles on stage and screen.
Someone felt she could be a teacher, so she decided to start teaching acting in the basement of her house in Hicksville, NY. I joined her class, The Acting Experience in 1999 and Laurie had us dig deep and pull out performances from places we didn't know existed.
She eventually moved her class out of the basement and to a studio, renamed Star Map Acting.
But she still went for roles in film and stage. However, Laurie found that getting the right monologues for auditions was tedious and frustrating, so she wrote her own. And then, published them in her book, "Finally...Monologues That Work".
She even found time to raise her son.
Now, she is releasing another book, "Finally..Scenes That Work", plus just last year, Laurie found a new location to teach which is 3 Stage Studios in Bethpage, NY.
One of Laurie's greatest superpowers is being relentless. Her drive and determination is what keeps her in the game. She says, "All we have is this moment. Just be human."
Enjoy this moment with Laurie Ann Davis.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16900059Mon, 11 Mar 2019 11:15:21 +0000TheArtistMattersDid you ever fell like you just didn't fit in with any group? That there was something about you that was different? That's how today's guest, Laurie Ann Davis felt when she was a kid. But once she found acting, she knew where she belonged....That's how today's guest, Laurie Ann Davis felt when she was a kid. But once she found acting, she knew where she belonged.
Playing Anne Frank was the catalyst to push her to pursue this as a career. Taking classes. Auditioning. Getting roles on stage and screen.
Someone felt she could be a teacher, so she decided to start teaching acting in the basement of her house in Hicksville, NY. I joined her class, The Acting Experience in 1999 and Laurie had us dig deep and pull out performances from places we didn't know existed.
She eventually moved her class out of the basement and to a studio, renamed Star Map Acting.
But she still went for roles in film and stage. However, Laurie found that getting the right monologues for auditions was tedious and frustrating, so she wrote her own. And then, published them in her book, "Finally...Monologues That Work".
She even found time to raise her son.
Now, she is releasing another book, "Finally..Scenes That Work", plus just last year, Laurie found a new location to teach which is 3 Stage Studios in Bethpage, NY.
One of Laurie's greatest superpowers is being relentless. Her drive and determination is what keeps her in the game. She says, "All we have is this moment. Just be human."
Enjoy this moment with Laurie Ann Davis.]]>36903stagestudios,acting,actor,art,artist,artists,creativity,lauriedavis,performing,stage,teaching,theartistmatters,theatrecleanfullTheArtistMattersDid you ever fell like you just didn't fit in with any group? That there was something about you that was different? That's how today's guest, Laurie Ann Davis felt when she was a kid. But once she found acting, she knew where she belonged. Playing Anne Frank was the catalyst to push her to pursue this as a career. Taking classes. Auditioning. Getting roles on stage and screen. Someone felt she could be a teacher, so she decided to start teaching acting in the basement of her house in Hicksville, NY. I joined her class, The Acting Experience in 1999 and Laurie had us dig deep and pull out performances from places we didn't know existed. She eventually moved her class out of the basement and to a studio, renamed Star Map Acting. But she still went for roles in film and stage. However, Laurie found that getting the right monologues for auditions was tedious and frustrating, so she wrote her own. And then, published them in her book, "Finally...Monologues That Work". She even found time to raise her son. Now, she is releasing another book, "Finally..Scenes That Work", plus just last year, Laurie found a new location to teach which is 3 Stage Studios in Bethpage, NY. One of Laurie's greatest superpowers is being relentless. Her drive and determination is what keeps her in the game. She says, "All we have is this moment. Just be human." Enjoy this moment with Laurie Ann Davis.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/dean-mcraineAs a child, Dean McRaine always enjoyed building things with his hands. When he got older, he found pottery as a creative and relaxing way to take his mind off the often times stressful and intense world of family therapy.
He taught himself through magazines, books and lots of trial and error. He considers himself to be a great problem solver. And you really have to be with clay. The intricacies of types of clay, molding it into the shapes you want, how long you fire them up in a kiln.
And Dean had to one up himself and experiment with colored clay. This is what made me want to connect with him. I still can't grasp how he can create all these designs and patterns onto a sheet of clay. You have to check out the video.
He's set up in Kauai with his shop, Lightwave Pottery. The name is not an accident. He wants his work to bring light to people. He hopes that someone can feel the emotional connection when they hold a mug or a plate he's sculpted.
Dean prompts artists to ask themselves: what is your mission as an artist? What is the feeling you get out of your art? Do you have the desire?
Well, Dean certainly has stuck to his mission for 30 plus years and still going strong at age 68. As one client complimented his work, "It's colored therapy."
Let the session begin!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17080731Mon, 18 Mar 2019 11:00:18 +0000TheArtistMatters"Happiness Made Solid". This is what you get when a family therapist turns to pottery. As a child, Dean McRaine always enjoyed building things with his hands. When he got older, he found pottery as a creative and relaxing way to take his mind off...As a child, Dean McRaine always enjoyed building things with his hands. When he got older, he found pottery as a creative and relaxing way to take his mind off the often times stressful and intense world of family therapy.
He taught himself through magazines, books and lots of trial and error. He considers himself to be a great problem solver. And you really have to be with clay. The intricacies of types of clay, molding it into the shapes you want, how long you fire them up in a kiln.
And Dean had to one up himself and experiment with colored clay. This is what made me want to connect with him. I still can't grasp how he can create all these designs and patterns onto a sheet of clay. You have to check out the video.
He's set up in Kauai with his shop, Lightwave Pottery. The name is not an accident. He wants his work to bring light to people. He hopes that someone can feel the emotional connection when they hold a mug or a plate he's sculpted.
Dean prompts artists to ask themselves: what is your mission as an artist? What is the feeling you get out of your art? Do you have the desire?
Well, Dean certainly has stuck to his mission for 30 plus years and still going strong at age 68. As one client complimented his work, "It's colored therapy."
Let the session begin!]]>3720art,artist,ceramics,clay,creativity,deanmcraine,lightwavepottery,pottery,thartistmattersyesfullTheArtistMatters"Happiness Made Solid". This is what you get when a family therapist turns to pottery. As a child, Dean McRaine always enjoyed building things with his hands. When he got older, he found pottery as a creative and relaxing way to take his mind off the often times stressful and intense world of family therapy. He taught himself through magazines, books and lots of trial and error. He considers himself to be a great problem solver. And you really have to be with clay. The intricacies of types of clay, molding it into the shapes you want, how long you fire them up in a kiln. And Dean had to one up himself and experiment with colored clay. This is what made me want to connect with him. I still can't grasp how he can create all these designs and patterns onto a sheet of clay. You have to check out the video. He's set up in Kauai with his shop, Lightwave Pottery. The name is not an accident. He wants his work to bring light to people. He hopes that someone can feel the emotional connection when they hold a mug or a plate he's sculpted. Dean prompts artists to ask themselves: what is your mission as an artist? What is the feeling you get out of your art? Do you have the desire? Well, Dean certainly has stuck to his mission for 30 plus years and still going strong at age 68. As one client complimented his work, "It's colored therapy." Let the session begin!Yeshttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/lou-lentino-rodriguezThis describes today's guest, actor Lou Lentino-Rodgriguez to a tee. As early as he can remember, he was entertaining the family doing character impressions and dancing and singing. It came natural to him. Maybe not by accident either. Turns out his family has connection to none other than Jimmy Durante.
And when he did his first role as a dancing snowflake in a school play, he knew this was his calling.
As he got older, Lou began pursuing acting and landed his first extra role in the TV show, Central Park West.
From there, he landed other roles in plays, such as Stalag 17, Romeo & Juliet, The Passion of Dracula, Extremities and Wait Until Dark.
Lou has been at this for 20 plus years and finally hitting some strides, with roles in TV series, such as Blue Bloods, Gotham, The Blacklist and High Maintenance. And just last week, he finally got his SAG/AFTRA card.
A friend of his described him as the 49-year-old minor league ball player who never made it to the pros, BUT never gave up. And that's Lou. If his opening quote gives you any indication, he can't not act. Despite the struggles and competition, acting brings him joy and he has to do it. This man defines perseverance and I truly applaud him for that.
And I think you will too. Enjoy my chat with Lou Lentino-Rodriguez.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17399809Mon, 25 Mar 2019 11:00:22 +0000TheArtistMatters"Acting is like a disease, I don't know when or if it can be cured, all I know is that if I give up, It will surely kill me." This describes today's guest, actor Lou Lentino-Rodgriguez to a tee. As early as he can remember, he was entertaining the...This describes today's guest, actor Lou Lentino-Rodgriguez to a tee. As early as he can remember, he was entertaining the family doing character impressions and dancing and singing. It came natural to him. Maybe not by accident either. Turns out his family has connection to none other than Jimmy Durante.
And when he did his first role as a dancing snowflake in a school play, he knew this was his calling.
As he got older, Lou began pursuing acting and landed his first extra role in the TV show, Central Park West.
From there, he landed other roles in plays, such as Stalag 17, Romeo & Juliet, The Passion of Dracula, Extremities and Wait Until Dark.
Lou has been at this for 20 plus years and finally hitting some strides, with roles in TV series, such as Blue Bloods, Gotham, The Blacklist and High Maintenance. And just last week, he finally got his SAG/AFTRA card.
A friend of his described him as the 49-year-old minor league ball player who never made it to the pros, BUT never gave up. And that's Lou. If his opening quote gives you any indication, he can't not act. Despite the struggles and competition, acting brings him joy and he has to do it. This man defines perseverance and I truly applaud him for that.
And I think you will too. Enjoy my chat with Lou Lentino-Rodriguez.]]>3664acting,actor,art,artist,arts,film,performingarts,stage,theartistmatters,theatre,tv,workingactorcleanfullTheArtistMatters"Acting is like a disease, I don't know when or if it can be cured, all I know is that if I give up, It will surely kill me." This describes today's guest, actor Lou Lentino-Rodgriguez to a tee. As early as he can remember, he was entertaining the family doing character impressions and dancing and singing. It came natural to him. Maybe not by accident either. Turns out his family has connection to none other than Jimmy Durante. And when he did his first role as a dancing snowflake in a school play, he knew this was his calling. As he got older, Lou began pursuing acting and landed his first extra role in the TV show, Central Park West. From there, he landed other roles in plays, such as Stalag 17, Romeo & Juliet, The Passion of Dracula, Extremities and Wait Until Dark. Lou has been at this for 20 plus years and finally hitting some strides, with roles in TV series, such as Blue Bloods, Gotham, The Blacklist and High Maintenance. And just last week, he finally got his SAG/AFTRA card. A friend of his described him as the 49-year-old minor league ball player who never made it to the pros, BUT never gave up. And that's Lou. If his opening quote gives you any indication, he can't not act. Despite the struggles and competition, acting brings him joy and he has to do it. This man defines perseverance and I truly applaud him for that. And I think you will too. Enjoy my chat with Lou Lentino-Rodriguez.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/barbie-bowserShe found her love of music first. Learning the piano and the clarinet and later in life, the guitar, playing in school bands and church worship teams.
Her husband Chuck introduced her to the world of photography and she was hooked.
And in her 40's, Barbie decided to take it seriously. She went to the Art Institute of Tampa, got her Bachelor's Degree and was soon working. From wedding photography to shooting virtual tours of luxury hotels and resorts. Barbie now has her own photography business.
To further expand her creativity, along with her husband, she started a blog and Youtube channel called the Bowser Journal.
It just goes to show that no matter what age, you can always find ways to channel your creativity and maybe even make a profit from it.
Enjoy my chat with Barbie Bowser!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17493330Mon, 01 Apr 2019 11:00:06 +0000TheArtistMattersWhat do you get when you combine a love of music with a love of photography? You get today's guest, Barbie Bowser. She found her love of music first. Learning the piano and the clarinet and later in life, the guitar, playing in school bands and...She found her love of music first. Learning the piano and the clarinet and later in life, the guitar, playing in school bands and church worship teams.
Her husband Chuck introduced her to the world of photography and she was hooked.
And in her 40's, Barbie decided to take it seriously. She went to the Art Institute of Tampa, got her Bachelor's Degree and was soon working. From wedding photography to shooting virtual tours of luxury hotels and resorts. Barbie now has her own photography business.
To further expand her creativity, along with her husband, she started a blog and Youtube channel called the Bowser Journal.
It just goes to show that no matter what age, you can always find ways to channel your creativity and maybe even make a profit from it.
Enjoy my chat with Barbie Bowser!]]>2602ambition,art,artist,artists,blog,clarinet,creativity,faith,guitar,music,musician,photographer,photography,piano,podcast,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWhat do you get when you combine a love of music with a love of photography? You get today's guest, Barbie Bowser. She found her love of music first. Learning the piano and the clarinet and later in life, the guitar, playing in school bands and church worship teams. Her husband Chuck introduced her to the world of photography and she was hooked. And in her 40's, Barbie decided to take it seriously. She went to the Art Institute of Tampa, got her Bachelor's Degree and was soon working. From wedding photography to shooting virtual tours of luxury hotels and resorts. Barbie now has her own photography business. To further expand her creativity, along with her husband, she started a blog and Youtube channel called the Bowser Journal. It just goes to show that no matter what age, you can always find ways to channel your creativity and maybe even make a profit from it. Enjoy my chat with Barbie Bowser!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/debbie-ortizAnd not just one creative outlet, mind you. This multi-talented woman is a dancer, actor, writer, producer and director!
Raised in the Bronx, Deborah had her share of tough times, but found release through the arts. Starting with dance, she joined a dance company called New York Guys & Dolls in the 70's.
Then, she was drawn into the world of acting, joining the Latino theatre group, Vaso de Leche.
From that group, Deborah was inspired to try her hand at writing and penned her first play called "Dirty Laundry". Soon after, she wrote and starred in her one woman play, "Changing Violet".
She also started her own production company called Dangerous Curves Productions.
Deborah spent 10 years with the New York Dinner Theatre Company, performing all over the tri-state area.
Upon moving to Florida, she started up Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre (where I met her), producing shows like "The Godfather's Messhuggener Wedding", "Let's Kill The Boss", "Zeus' Big Surprise" and "Homecoming at Transylvania High".
The next part of Deborah's journey took an expected turn. And she became a documentary filmmaker. Her husband was a retired NY police officer suffering from PTSD. It was affecting their relationship and their family. So, what does Deborah do? She creates the award-winning documentary, Code 9 : Officer Needs Assistance. This labor of love not only helped her, her husband and family heal, but has become a movement and community for officers and first responders suffering from this mental injury.
Without skipping a beat, Deborah directed the short film, SIlver Alert.
And is now co-writing (with her son, Frank) a script called "The Ortiz Sisters" loosely based on her and her sisters.
I have known Deborah for 10 years now and she has become a mentor to me in my creative growth which I am so grateful for.
I am so excited for you to enjoy my conversation with Deborah Louise Ortiz.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17561688Mon, 08 Apr 2019 11:00:16 +0000TheArtistMattersCan creativity really help us heal the pain and struggles we go through? Today's guest, Deborah Louise Ortiz would answer that question with a resounding "Yes!" And not just one creative outlet, mind you. This multi-talented woman is a dancer,...And not just one creative outlet, mind you. This multi-talented woman is a dancer, actor, writer, producer and director!
Raised in the Bronx, Deborah had her share of tough times, but found release through the arts. Starting with dance, she joined a dance company called New York Guys & Dolls in the 70's.
Then, she was drawn into the world of acting, joining the Latino theatre group, Vaso de Leche.
From that group, Deborah was inspired to try her hand at writing and penned her first play called "Dirty Laundry". Soon after, she wrote and starred in her one woman play, "Changing Violet".
She also started her own production company called Dangerous Curves Productions.
Deborah spent 10 years with the New York Dinner Theatre Company, performing all over the tri-state area.
Upon moving to Florida, she started up Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre (where I met her), producing shows like "The Godfather's Messhuggener Wedding", "Let's Kill The Boss", "Zeus' Big Surprise" and "Homecoming at Transylvania High".
The next part of Deborah's journey took an expected turn. And she became a documentary filmmaker. Her husband was a retired NY police officer suffering from PTSD. It was affecting their relationship and their family. So, what does Deborah do? She creates the award-winning documentary, Code 9 : Officer Needs Assistance. This labor of love not only helped her, her husband and family heal, but has become a movement and community for officers and first responders suffering from this mental injury.
Without skipping a beat, Deborah directed the short film, SIlver Alert.
And is now co-writing (with her son, Frank) a script called "The Ortiz Sisters" loosely based on her and her sisters.
I have known Deborah for 10 years now and she has become a mentor to me in my creative growth which I am so grateful for.
I am so excited for you to enjoy my conversation with Deborah Louise Ortiz.]]>3723actor,art,artist,dancer,deborahlouiseortiz,dinnertheatre,director,documentary,filmmaker,podcast,producer,theartistmatters,theatre,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersCan creativity really help us heal the pain and struggles we go through? Today's guest, Deborah Louise Ortiz would answer that question with a resounding "Yes!" And not just one creative outlet, mind you. This multi-talented woman is a dancer, actor, writer, producer and director! Raised in the Bronx, Deborah had her share of tough times, but found release through the arts. Starting with dance, she joined a dance company called New York Guys & Dolls in the 70's. Then, she was drawn into the world of acting, joining the Latino theatre group, Vaso de Leche. From that group, Deborah was inspired to try her hand at writing and penned her first play called "Dirty Laundry". Soon after, she wrote and starred in her one woman play, "Changing Violet". She also started her own production company called Dangerous Curves Productions. Deborah spent 10 years with the New York Dinner Theatre Company, performing all over the tri-state area. Upon moving to Florida, she started up Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre (where I met her), producing shows like "The Godfather's Messhuggener Wedding", "Let's Kill The Boss", "Zeus' Big Surprise" and "Homecoming at Transylvania High". The next part of Deborah's journey took an expected turn. And she became a documentary filmmaker. Her husband was a retired NY police officer suffering from PTSD. It was affecting their relationship and their family. So, what does Deborah do? She creates the award-winning documentary, Code 9 : Officer Needs Assistance. This labor of love not only helped her, her husband and family heal, but has become a movement and community for officers and first responders suffering from this mental injury. Without skipping a beat, Deborah directed the short film, SIlver Alert. And is now co-writing (with her son, Frank) a script called "The Ortiz Sisters" loosely based on her and her sisters. I have known Deborah for 10 years now and she has become a mentor to me in my creative growth which I am so grateful for. I am so excited for you to enjoy my conversation with Deborah Louise Ortiz.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/billy-lamontThankfully, today's guest - Billy Lamont - uses his words and his voice on the creation side. As a poet for over 30 years, his focus has been to help, inspire and bring some joy into the lives of others.
Whether it's performing skits with his family when he was a kid or reading poetry for a homeless shelter on Thanksgiving or performing at bigger venues including MTV and Lollapalooza.
He has published several audio poetry albums, including Into the 21st Century and Beyond Babylon.
Billy has also penned three poetry books: The Gallery of Light, Strobe Light Generation and Words Ripped From a Soul Still Bleeding.
He even has a spot in the Guinness Book of World's Records!
He encourages future poets to be true to thier own voice and reminds them that their words are needed.
I've known him since 2004 and always felt this artistic kinship with him.
As I hope you will.
Enjoy my chat with Billy Lamont.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17636154Mon, 15 Apr 2019 11:00:12 +0000TheArtistMattersWords can either create or destroy. You can build someone up with a heartfelt compliment or easily tear them down with a hurtful remark. Thankfully, today's guest - Billy Lamont - uses his words and his voice on the creation side. As a poet for...Thankfully, today's guest - Billy Lamont - uses his words and his voice on the creation side. As a poet for over 30 years, his focus has been to help, inspire and bring some joy into the lives of others.
Whether it's performing skits with his family when he was a kid or reading poetry for a homeless shelter on Thanksgiving or performing at bigger venues including MTV and Lollapalooza.
He has published several audio poetry albums, including Into the 21st Century and Beyond Babylon.
Billy has also penned three poetry books: The Gallery of Light, Strobe Light Generation and Words Ripped From a Soul Still Bleeding.
He even has a spot in the Guinness Book of World's Records!
He encourages future poets to be true to thier own voice and reminds them that their words are needed.
I've known him since 2004 and always felt this artistic kinship with him.
As I hope you will.
Enjoy my chat with Billy Lamont.]]>4596alexrudy,art,artist,artistry,artmatters,billylamont,creativity,poet,poetry,poets,theartistmatters,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersWords can either create or destroy. You can build someone up with a heartfelt compliment or easily tear them down with a hurtful remark. Thankfully, today's guest - Billy Lamont - uses his words and his voice on the creation side. As a poet for over 30 years, his focus has been to help, inspire and bring some joy into the lives of others. Whether it's performing skits with his family when he was a kid or reading poetry for a homeless shelter on Thanksgiving or performing at bigger venues including MTV and Lollapalooza. He has published several audio poetry albums, including Into the 21st Century and Beyond Babylon. Billy has also penned three poetry books: The Gallery of Light, Strobe Light Generation and Words Ripped From a Soul Still Bleeding. He even has a spot in the Guinness Book of World's Records! He encourages future poets to be true to thier own voice and reminds them that their words are needed. I've known him since 2004 and always felt this artistic kinship with him. As I hope you will. Enjoy my chat with Billy Lamont.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/rodini-almonacyObviously, he's a survivor. And this plays a huge part in how he approaches life, work, everything.
So, where does the special mission come into play? Rodini discovered a passion for art at a young age. As he got older, he was drawn into the world of graphic arts. Staring off small by creating logos for clothing, making up party flyers. But demand for his work started to grow to the point where he needed help.
So, Rodini created his own graphic design company, Maximum Grafx. More clients and gigs kept his company busy. Eventually, the company grew into Maximum Marketing Media Group and Rodini earned a new title as a Consultant. And that became Maximum Marketing Enterprises.
Rodini also created Iluvbball.com. This helps and showcases young basketball players.
Through it all, he stays grounded with his wife and five children. A man with a good heart wanting to not only make his clients happy, but anyone he comes into contact with.
This was such an inspiring chat we had and I'm sure you're going to be inspired too.
Enjoy my conversation with Rodini.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17699678Mon, 22 Apr 2019 11:00:23 +0000TheArtistMattersWhat would it mean to you if your mother said you have a special mission in life? For this episode's guest, Rodini Almonacy, it means a great deal. Not only because his mother actually said this to him, but also for the fact that his own life almost...Obviously, he's a survivor. And this plays a huge part in how he approaches life, work, everything.
So, where does the special mission come into play? Rodini discovered a passion for art at a young age. As he got older, he was drawn into the world of graphic arts. Staring off small by creating logos for clothing, making up party flyers. But demand for his work started to grow to the point where he needed help.
So, Rodini created his own graphic design company, Maximum Grafx. More clients and gigs kept his company busy. Eventually, the company grew into Maximum Marketing Media Group and Rodini earned a new title as a Consultant. And that became Maximum Marketing Enterprises.
Rodini also created Iluvbball.com. This helps and showcases young basketball players.
Through it all, he stays grounded with his wife and five children. A man with a good heart wanting to not only make his clients happy, but anyone he comes into contact with.
This was such an inspiring chat we had and I'm sure you're going to be inspired too.
Enjoy my conversation with Rodini.]]>33123mgdesigns,alexrudy,art,artist,artmatters,arts,graphicartist,graphicarts,graphics,iluvbball,maximumgrafx,maximummarketingenterprises,rodinialmonacy,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWhat would it mean to you if your mother said you have a special mission in life? For this episode's guest, Rodini Almonacy, it means a great deal. Not only because his mother actually said this to him, but also for the fact that his own life almost never began. That is because Rodini was stillborn! I kid you not. Obviously, he's a survivor. And this plays a huge part in how he approaches life, work, everything. So, where does the special mission come into play? Rodini discovered a passion for art at a young age. As he got older, he was drawn into the world of graphic arts. Staring off small by creating logos for clothing, making up party flyers. But demand for his work started to grow to the point where he needed help. So, Rodini created his own graphic design company, Maximum Grafx. More clients and gigs kept his company busy. Eventually, the company grew into Maximum Marketing Media Group and Rodini earned a new title as a Consultant. And that became Maximum Marketing Enterprises. Rodini also created Iluvbball.com. This helps and showcases young basketball players. Through it all, he stays grounded with his wife and five children. A man with a good heart wanting to not only make his clients happy, but anyone he comes into contact with. This was such an inspiring chat we had and I'm sure you're going to be inspired too. Enjoy my conversation with Rodini.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/joram-erikJoram was born and raised near, in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The eldest of 5 children (4 boys, 1 girl), He was brought up in a strict fundamentalist Christian household and wasn't allowed to listen to "secular" music. Thankfully, Joram’s parents loved music enough, especially his mother, to expose the family to music that, despite having a strong obvious religious message, was made by objectively talented artists. When she was growing up, Joram’s mom often sang with her brother, a fantastic guitarist, and won singing competitions in high school. So, was Joram destined to follow in his family’s musical footsteps?
Well, at the age of 13, his parents bought him an acoustic guitar for Christmas, but without lessons he grew frustrated trying to learn and gave up. A couple years later, his best friend bought an electric bass, which reignited Joram’s interest in learning to play.
In 2001, his family moved to San Jose, California. Recovering from a knee injury, Joram began to play guitar more and more and was basically self-taught.
He eventually got a car and began listening to secular music on the radio, buying CDs and catching up on as much of the music he missed out on.
He joined a church at one point and was a member of their music team for junior high kids. He sang and later played bass and guitar with them for a short while.
Joram and his family moved back to Louisiana in 2006. Back there, he attended Southeastern Louisiana University in 2008 and got a degree in Mass Comm with an emphasis in journalism in 2011.
Just last year, Erik and Joram’s paths crossed and they felt they could create a band together. So, they did. With Joram (Lead Vocals), Erik ((Rhythm Guitar/vocals), Tyler Herrmann (Drums & Erik’s brother), Erik Herrmann Sr. (Bass & you probably guessed by now, Erik’s dad) and Robert Holden (Lead Guitar), they formed the rock & roll group, Slow Apollo.
Enjoy this chat with Joram & Erik.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17821425Mon, 06 May 2019 11:00:20 +0000TheArtistMatters This is a first. A returning guest. Erik Herrmann is back from the last episode. And he’s not alone. With him is his bandmate from the group, Slow Apollo, Joram Roubique. We heard Erik’s story already, so this episode begins with a focus on...Joram was born and raised near, in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The eldest of 5 children (4 boys, 1 girl), He was brought up in a strict fundamentalist Christian household and wasn't allowed to listen to "secular" music. Thankfully, Joram’s parents loved music enough, especially his mother, to expose the family to music that, despite having a strong obvious religious message, was made by objectively talented artists. When she was growing up, Joram’s mom often sang with her brother, a fantastic guitarist, and won singing competitions in high school. So, was Joram destined to follow in his family’s musical footsteps?
Well, at the age of 13, his parents bought him an acoustic guitar for Christmas, but without lessons he grew frustrated trying to learn and gave up. A couple years later, his best friend bought an electric bass, which reignited Joram’s interest in learning to play.
In 2001, his family moved to San Jose, California. Recovering from a knee injury, Joram began to play guitar more and more and was basically self-taught.
He eventually got a car and began listening to secular music on the radio, buying CDs and catching up on as much of the music he missed out on.
He joined a church at one point and was a member of their music team for junior high kids. He sang and later played bass and guitar with them for a short while.
Joram and his family moved back to Louisiana in 2006. Back there, he attended Southeastern Louisiana University in 2008 and got a degree in Mass Comm with an emphasis in journalism in 2011.
Just last year, Erik and Joram’s paths crossed and they felt they could create a band together. So, they did. With Joram (Lead Vocals), Erik ((Rhythm Guitar/vocals), Tyler Herrmann (Drums & Erik’s brother), Erik Herrmann Sr. (Bass & you probably guessed by now, Erik’s dad) and Robert Holden (Lead Guitar), they formed the rock & roll group, Slow Apollo.
Enjoy this chat with Joram & Erik.]]>4814art,artist,artistmatters,erikherrmann,guitar,joramroubique,music,musicians,podcast,rockandroll,slowapollo,theartistmatters,theparkcleanfullTheArtistMatters This is a first. A returning guest. Erik Herrmann is back from the last episode. And he’s not alone. With him is his bandmate from the group, Slow Apollo, Joram Roubique. We heard Erik’s story already, so this episode begins with a focus on Joram’s journey. Joram was born and raised near, in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The eldest of 5 children (4 boys, 1 girl), He was brought up in a strict fundamentalist Christian household and wasn't allowed to listen to "secular" music. Thankfully, Joram’s parents loved music enough, especially his mother, to expose the family to music that, despite having a strong obvious religious message, was made by objectively talented artists. When she was growing up, Joram’s mom often sang with her brother, a fantastic guitarist, and won singing competitions in high school. So, was Joram destined to follow in his family’s musical footsteps? Well, at the age of 13, his parents bought him an acoustic guitar for Christmas, but without lessons he grew frustrated trying to learn and gave up. A couple years later, his best friend bought an electric bass, which reignited Joram’s interest in learning to play. In 2001, his family moved to San Jose, California. Recovering from a knee injury, Joram began to play guitar more and more and was basically self-taught. He eventually got a car and began listening to secular music on the radio, buying CDs and catching up on as much of the music he missed out on. He joined a church at one point and was a member of their music team for junior high kids. He sang and later played bass and guitar with them for a short while. Joram and his family moved back to Louisiana in 2006. Back there, he attended Southeastern Louisiana University in 2008 and got a degree in Mass Comm with an emphasis in journalism in 2011. Just last year, Erik and Joram’s paths crossed and they felt they could create a band together. So, they did. With Joram (Lead Vocals), Erik ((Rhythm Guitar/vocals), Tyler Herrmann (Drums & Erik’s brother), Erik Herrmann Sr. (Bass & you probably guessed by now, Erik’s dad) and Robert Holden (Lead Guitar), they formed the rock & roll group, Slow Apollo. Enjoy this chat with Joram & Erik.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/james-ellisonFor the last few years, James has been pursuing his dream as a freelance illustrator. He studied graphic design at Northern Kentucky University, but is mostly self-taught. He has gone to comic conventions and craft festivals to showcase his work. He's created posters for a local bar, logos for small businesses, T-shirt designs and more. But illustrating remains his passion. With the dream being, story telling via comic books and graphic novels. 
But his health took a hit a few years back. James lives with a chronic autoimmune disease, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. Yet, he hasn't allowed this to slow him down. He's dedicating the rest of his life to spreading awareness through art and speaking about chronic invisible diseases.
The grizzly "within" keeps him active in other areas too. James likes to go hiking in his favorite National forest, walking his dog through the city, spending quality time with family, his black lab, Daisy and kitten, Lancelot in Covington, KY.
An inspiring story to say the least, enjoy my chat with James.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17896933Mon, 13 May 2019 11:00:06 +0000TheArtistMattersWhat is grizzly life? Today's guest, Illustrator and Designer, James T Ellison can explain. For the last few years, James has been pursuing his dream as a freelance illustrator. He studied graphic design at Northern Kentucky University, but is mostly...For the last few years, James has been pursuing his dream as a freelance illustrator. He studied graphic design at Northern Kentucky University, but is mostly self-taught. He has gone to comic conventions and craft festivals to showcase his work. He's created posters for a local bar, logos for small businesses, T-shirt designs and more. But illustrating remains his passion. With the dream being, story telling via comic books and graphic novels. 
But his health took a hit a few years back. James lives with a chronic autoimmune disease, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. Yet, he hasn't allowed this to slow him down. He's dedicating the rest of his life to spreading awareness through art and speaking about chronic invisible diseases.
The grizzly "within" keeps him active in other areas too. James likes to go hiking in his favorite National forest, walking his dog through the city, spending quality time with family, his black lab, Daisy and kitten, Lancelot in Covington, KY.
An inspiring story to say the least, enjoy my chat with James.]]>3938art,artist,artistmatters,autoimmune,comicbooks,dagrizzlyartist,dontkeepyourdayjob,graphicnovels,grizzly,illustration,illustrator,jamestellsion,mixedconnectivetissuedisease,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWhat is grizzly life? Today's guest, Illustrator and Designer, James T Ellison can explain. For the last few years, James has been pursuing his dream as a freelance illustrator. He studied graphic design at Northern Kentucky University, but is mostly self-taught. He has gone to comic conventions and craft festivals to showcase his work. He's created posters for a local bar, logos for small businesses, T-shirt designs and more. But illustrating remains his passion. With the dream being, story telling via comic books and graphic novels.  But his health took a hit a few years back. James lives with a chronic autoimmune disease, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. Yet, he hasn't allowed this to slow him down. He's dedicating the rest of his life to spreading awareness through art and speaking about chronic invisible diseases. The grizzly "within" keeps him active in other areas too. James likes to go hiking in his favorite National forest, walking his dog through the city, spending quality time with family, his black lab, Daisy and kitten, Lancelot in Covington, KY. An inspiring story to say the least, enjoy my chat with James.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tori-ohmanBorn on Long Island 1984, Victoria (or Tori, as I’ve known her) began making art as soon as she could hold a crayon.
She pursued an art sequence in high school (sachem class of 2002); Graduated with honors with a BFA in painting and drawing from SUNY New Paltz in 2006. Tori’s thesis consisted of oil paintings that were experimental, intuitive, process oriented, pattern based abstractions to create mood rather than represent objects or landscapes. Inspired by patterns in nature, ideas of the connections between microcosm and macrocosm.
She has drawn influence from painters, like: Wasily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, Picasso and Barbara Takenaga.
Tori returned to LI to join the workforce and began a tattoo apprenticeship in Islip, NY in February, 2007. In October that year, she did her first tattoo.
She has now been tattooing full-time since 2010. And works at Artful Ink in Bohemia, NY.
And it’s fitting that her episode falls on the Canadian holiday, Victoria Day. (had to do it)
Get the ink ready and enjoy my chat with Tori.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17954451Mon, 20 May 2019 11:00:25 +0000TheArtistMattersSo, what does it take to become a tattoo artist? Today’s guest, Victoria Ohman knows first hand. Born on Long Island 1984, Victoria (or Tori, as I’ve known her) began making art as soon as she could hold a crayon. She pursued an art sequence in high...Born on Long Island 1984, Victoria (or Tori, as I’ve known her) began making art as soon as she could hold a crayon.
She pursued an art sequence in high school (sachem class of 2002); Graduated with honors with a BFA in painting and drawing from SUNY New Paltz in 2006. Tori’s thesis consisted of oil paintings that were experimental, intuitive, process oriented, pattern based abstractions to create mood rather than represent objects or landscapes. Inspired by patterns in nature, ideas of the connections between microcosm and macrocosm.
She has drawn influence from painters, like: Wasily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, Picasso and Barbara Takenaga.
Tori returned to LI to join the workforce and began a tattoo apprenticeship in Islip, NY in February, 2007. In October that year, she did her first tattoo.
She has now been tattooing full-time since 2010. And works at Artful Ink in Bohemia, NY.
And it’s fitting that her episode falls on the Canadian holiday, Victoria Day. (had to do it)
Get the ink ready and enjoy my chat with Tori.]]>3363art,artfulink,artist,artistmatters,bohemia,fragilefyre,longisland,newpaltz,newyork,podcast,suny,tattoo,tattooartist,tattoos,theartistmatters,victoriaday,victoriaohmancleanfullTheArtistMattersSo, what does it take to become a tattoo artist? Today’s guest, Victoria Ohman knows first hand. Born on Long Island 1984, Victoria (or Tori, as I’ve known her) began making art as soon as she could hold a crayon. She pursued an art sequence in high school (sachem class of 2002); Graduated with honors with a BFA in painting and drawing from SUNY New Paltz in 2006. Tori’s thesis consisted of oil paintings that were experimental, intuitive, process oriented, pattern based abstractions to create mood rather than represent objects or landscapes. Inspired by patterns in nature, ideas of the connections between microcosm and macrocosm. She has drawn influence from painters, like: Wasily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, Picasso and Barbara Takenaga. Tori returned to LI to join the workforce and began a tattoo apprenticeship in Islip, NY in February, 2007. In October that year, she did her first tattoo. She has now been tattooing full-time since 2010. And works at Artful Ink in Bohemia, NY. And it’s fitting that her episode falls on the Canadian holiday, Victoria Day. (had to do it) Get the ink ready and enjoy my chat with Tori.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/chris-roachYou may know him best from his major recurring role of Mott in the CBS sitcom, “KEVIN CAN WAIT”. He has also appeared in other roles in TV and on film. 
He created the viral video ode to his beloved hometown on Long Island called “RONKOKOMO” which has nearly two million views across all platforms. 
If that isn’t enough, Chris currently co-hosts two weekly podcasts.
First is “Long Island Explained”, which focuses exclusively on historical and pop culture events from his native Long Island. The next is “Comedians on Hockey”, featuring Chris and his comedian friends talking seriously, but having fun, about all things hockey.
Plus, we’re both students of guest #1 of “The Artist Matters”, Laurie Ann Davis. Small world, indeed.
So, have a Happy Memorial Day and enjoy my chat with Chris.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18029784Mon, 27 May 2019 11:00:09 +0000TheArtistMattersHow does learning about public speaking turn into a career in stand up comedy? You’ll find out with today’s guest, Chris Roach. The Comedian/Actor, born and raised in New York, has been all over. Performing his unique and self-deprecating brand of...You may know him best from his major recurring role of Mott in the CBS sitcom, “KEVIN CAN WAIT”. He has also appeared in other roles in TV and on film. 
He created the viral video ode to his beloved hometown on Long Island called “RONKOKOMO” which has nearly two million views across all platforms. 
If that isn’t enough, Chris currently co-hosts two weekly podcasts.
First is “Long Island Explained”, which focuses exclusively on historical and pop culture events from his native Long Island. The next is “Comedians on Hockey”, featuring Chris and his comedian friends talking seriously, but having fun, about all things hockey.
Plus, we’re both students of guest #1 of “The Artist Matters”, Laurie Ann Davis. Small world, indeed.
So, have a Happy Memorial Day and enjoy my chat with Chris.]]>22983stagestudios,acting,actor,art,artist,chrisroach,comedian,comediansonhockey,comedy,kevinjames,laurieanndavis,longislandexplained,newyork,podcast,podcasting,ronkokomo,standupcomedy,thartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersHow does learning about public speaking turn into a career in stand up comedy? You’ll find out with today’s guest, Chris Roach. The Comedian/Actor, born and raised in New York, has been all over. Performing his unique and self-deprecating brand of stand up to some of the biggest and best-known stages in the country, such as Carolines on Broadway, The Borgata in Atlantic City and The Paramount in Huntington, NY. Chris recently toured as the opening act on Kevin James’ 2019 tour all over the Northeast. You may know him best from his major recurring role of Mott in the CBS sitcom, “KEVIN CAN WAIT”. He has also appeared in other roles in TV and on film.  He created the viral video ode to his beloved hometown on Long Island called “RONKOKOMO” which has nearly two million views across all platforms.  If that isn’t enough, Chris currently co-hosts two weekly podcasts. First is “Long Island Explained”, which focuses exclusively on historical and pop culture events from his native Long Island. The next is “Comedians on Hockey”, featuring Chris and his comedian friends talking seriously, but having fun, about all things hockey. Plus, we’re both students of guest #1 of “The Artist Matters”, Laurie Ann Davis. Small world, indeed. So, have a Happy Memorial Day and enjoy my chat with Chris.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/anna-rudy-monicoBack in 2002, we met at karaoke in New York. She laughed at my Mrs. Doubtfire imitation and the saga began. Besides her awesome singing voice, I soon discovered she was a dancer and a fitness instructor at a local gym. Got my first taste of her signature class, Jazzarobex in 2003. I loved the way she combined dance moves with aerobics. As did the many people who flocked to her classes
But her story begins in Brooklyn, NY where she always had a love of music and dancing anywhere the mood struck her.
It was in the 80’s, while living in New Mexico, that she discovered an aerobics class at a gym. She was hooked. But felt a calling to begin teaching those classes herself. So, she studied and learned and created Jazzarobex.
Anna also became an Examiner for AFAA, testing up and coming instructors. In Fuzecraze, she taught different types of choreography to dancers. She has also become a Silver Sneaker instructor and presenter for Tivity Health.
Anna also got involved with Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre, choreographing some of the shows, including “Zeus’ Big Surprise” and “Homecoming at Transylvania High”.
With a busy schedule of 13 classes, Anna still finds time to sing as part of the Hillside Community Baptist Church praise team.
I’m grateful to be married to this amazing, hard-working and talented woman.
So, I hope you will enjoy my chat with my wife, Anna Rudy-Monico.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18049843Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:00:19 +0000TheArtistMattersThis is a special one. We finally have my wife, Anna Rudy-Monico on the show. Back in 2002, we met at karaoke in New York. She laughed at my Mrs. Doubtfire imitation and the saga began. Besides her awesome singing voice, I soon discovered she was...Back in 2002, we met at karaoke in New York. She laughed at my Mrs. Doubtfire imitation and the saga began. Besides her awesome singing voice, I soon discovered she was a dancer and a fitness instructor at a local gym. Got my first taste of her signature class, Jazzarobex in 2003. I loved the way she combined dance moves with aerobics. As did the many people who flocked to her classes
But her story begins in Brooklyn, NY where she always had a love of music and dancing anywhere the mood struck her.
It was in the 80’s, while living in New Mexico, that she discovered an aerobics class at a gym. She was hooked. But felt a calling to begin teaching those classes herself. So, she studied and learned and created Jazzarobex.
Anna also became an Examiner for AFAA, testing up and coming instructors. In Fuzecraze, she taught different types of choreography to dancers. She has also become a Silver Sneaker instructor and presenter for Tivity Health.
Anna also got involved with Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre, choreographing some of the shows, including “Zeus’ Big Surprise” and “Homecoming at Transylvania High”.
With a busy schedule of 13 classes, Anna still finds time to sing as part of the Hillside Community Baptist Church praise team.
I’m grateful to be married to this amazing, hard-working and talented woman.
So, I hope you will enjoy my chat with my wife, Anna Rudy-Monico.]]>3423aafa,aerobics,annarudymonico,anytimefitness,art,artist,brooklyn,choreographer,choreography,dance,dancer,dancing,fitness,fuzecraze,hcbc,jazzarobex,karaoke,silversneakers,singing,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersThis is a special one. We finally have my wife, Anna Rudy-Monico on the show. Back in 2002, we met at karaoke in New York. She laughed at my Mrs. Doubtfire imitation and the saga began. Besides her awesome singing voice, I soon discovered she was a dancer and a fitness instructor at a local gym. Got my first taste of her signature class, Jazzarobex in 2003. I loved the way she combined dance moves with aerobics. As did the many people who flocked to her classes But her story begins in Brooklyn, NY where she always had a love of music and dancing anywhere the mood struck her. It was in the 80’s, while living in New Mexico, that she discovered an aerobics class at a gym. She was hooked. But felt a calling to begin teaching those classes herself. So, she studied and learned and created Jazzarobex. Anna also became an Examiner for AFAA, testing up and coming instructors. In Fuzecraze, she taught different types of choreography to dancers. She has also become a Silver Sneaker instructor and presenter for Tivity Health. Anna also got involved with Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre, choreographing some of the shows, including “Zeus’ Big Surprise” and “Homecoming at Transylvania High”. With a busy schedule of 13 classes, Anna still finds time to sing as part of the Hillside Community Baptist Church praise team. I’m grateful to be married to this amazing, hard-working and talented woman. So, I hope you will enjoy my chat with my wife, Anna Rudy-Monico.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/keith-surplus-part-1But his story goes back to visual arts as a kid. Then, in his teen years, he discovered the theatre.
Getting roles in musicals, like “Annie” and “The King & I” at venues in Florida such as Richey Suncoast and the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center.
After I got to work with him in the Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre shows, I knew I had to cast him in my Dog Whisperer parody video called “The Dog Talkerer”.
Keith has also been part of the 48 Hour Film Project, in which a short movie is created from concept to production to completion in 48 hours.
There’s much more to Keith story which you will hear next week. That’s right! For the first time, I’m breaking this interview into two parts. Keith had so much to say and we almost reached the 2-hour mark, so I said, let’s split this up.
Enjoy the part one of my interview with Keith Surplus.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18210748Mon, 10 Jun 2019 11:00:17 +0000TheArtistMattersToday’s guest is someone I’ve known for 10 years. Back in 2009, he joined me and the cast of “The Godfather’s Messhuggener Wedding” dinner show. He is Keith Surplus. He jumped right into his role as Bernie, the Jewish groom and went on to play other...But his story goes back to visual arts as a kid. Then, in his teen years, he discovered the theatre.
Getting roles in musicals, like “Annie” and “The King & I” at venues in Florida such as Richey Suncoast and the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center.
After I got to work with him in the Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre shows, I knew I had to cast him in my Dog Whisperer parody video called “The Dog Talkerer”.
Keith has also been part of the 48 Hour Film Project, in which a short movie is created from concept to production to completion in 48 hours.
There’s much more to Keith story which you will hear next week. That’s right! For the first time, I’m breaking this interview into two parts. Keith had so much to say and we almost reached the 2-hour mark, so I said, let’s split this up.
Enjoy the part one of my interview with Keith Surplus.]]>333448hourfilmfestival,acting,actor,art,artist,auditions,film,performer,performing,richeysuncoast,singing,stage,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,theatrecleanfullTheArtistMattersToday’s guest is someone I’ve known for 10 years. Back in 2009, he joined me and the cast of “The Godfather’s Messhuggener Wedding” dinner show. He is Keith Surplus. He jumped right into his role as Bernie, the Jewish groom and went on to play other varied and different characters in other shows we did. But his story goes back to visual arts as a kid. Then, in his teen years, he discovered the theatre. Getting roles in musicals, like “Annie” and “The King & I” at venues in Florida such as Richey Suncoast and the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. After I got to work with him in the Standing Ovation Dinner Theatre shows, I knew I had to cast him in my Dog Whisperer parody video called “The Dog Talkerer”. Keith has also been part of the 48 Hour Film Project, in which a short movie is created from concept to production to completion in 48 hours. There’s much more to Keith story which you will hear next week. That’s right! For the first time, I’m breaking this interview into two parts. Keith had so much to say and we almost reached the 2-hour mark, so I said, let’s split this up. Enjoy the part one of my interview with Keith Surplus.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/keith-surplus-part-2This week we follow Keith on his journey into feature films as an actor and Production Assistant on films, such as “Camp Twilight”.
Keith will give us the low-down on some of his favorite musicals and roles, as well as roles he’d still like to play.
We talk about some of his influences and how they have inspired and motivated him in his creative pursuits.
Keith also mentions his other creative ventures into photography, prop making (available on his Etsy page) and even voice-overs.
If you enjoyed last week’s episode with Keith, you’re going to love how we wrap things up on this show.
Here is part 2 of my chat with Keith Surplus.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18277395Mon, 17 Jun 2019 11:00:27 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to the conclusion of my chat with actor/performer, et al - Keith Surplus. This week we follow Keith on his journey into feature films as an actor and Production Assistant on films, such as “Camp Twilight”. Keith will give us the low-down on...This week we follow Keith on his journey into feature films as an actor and Production Assistant on films, such as “Camp Twilight”.
Keith will give us the low-down on some of his favorite musicals and roles, as well as roles he’d still like to play.
We talk about some of his influences and how they have inspired and motivated him in his creative pursuits.
Keith also mentions his other creative ventures into photography, prop making (available on his Etsy page) and even voice-overs.
If you enjoyed last week’s episode with Keith, you’re going to love how we wrap things up on this show.
Here is part 2 of my chat with Keith Surplus.]]>3824acting,actor,art,artist,artists,artmatters,arts,camptwilight,creativity,etsy,imagination,keithsurplus,performer,photography,productionassistant,stage,theartistmatters,theatre,voiceovercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to the conclusion of my chat with actor/performer, et al - Keith Surplus. This week we follow Keith on his journey into feature films as an actor and Production Assistant on films, such as “Camp Twilight”. Keith will give us the low-down on some of his favorite musicals and roles, as well as roles he’d still like to play. We talk about some of his influences and how they have inspired and motivated him in his creative pursuits. Keith also mentions his other creative ventures into photography, prop making (available on his Etsy page) and even voice-overs. If you enjoyed last week’s episode with Keith, you’re going to love how we wrap things up on this show. Here is part 2 of my chat with Keith Surplus.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/hamaila-qureshiAlmost as soon as she started making and wearing her jewelry, people started asking - when is she going to start selling? In September 2018, Hamaila launched her website.
She began working for Limbo Jewelry this year as a Jewelry Production Assistant which was a dream come true for her, having been a fan of their store and designs for years.
Hamaila has also been a volunteer for the non-profit, Liberty for North Korea - which helps North Korean refugees. And even has a TEDx Talk detailing the work she did and helping to raise awareness on this topic.
But there’s much more to her story, so enjoy my chat with Hamaila Qureshi.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18349519Mon, 24 Jun 2019 11:00:09 +0000TheArtistMattersToday, we get our first jeweler, Hamaila Qureshi. Her family wanted her to get an education to become a pharmacist, but it just wasn’t for her. Design was what spoke to her. A fascination with furniture design led her to woodworking and...Almost as soon as she started making and wearing her jewelry, people started asking - when is she going to start selling? In September 2018, Hamaila launched her website.
She began working for Limbo Jewelry this year as a Jewelry Production Assistant which was a dream come true for her, having been a fan of their store and designs for years.
Hamaila has also been a volunteer for the non-profit, Liberty for North Korea - which helps North Korean refugees. And even has a TEDx Talk detailing the work she did and helping to raise awareness on this topic.
But there’s much more to her story, so enjoy my chat with Hamaila Qureshi.]]>2283art,artist,hamailaqureshi,jeweler,jewelry,libertyfornorthkorea,limbojewelry,tedtalks,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersToday, we get our first jeweler, Hamaila Qureshi. Her family wanted her to get an education to become a pharmacist, but it just wasn’t for her. Design was what spoke to her. A fascination with furniture design led her to woodworking and metalworking. When she was in art metals, her instructor noticed that she had been making a lot of bracelets and said, “Hamaila - have you looked into the jewelry department? I think you’d fit in well there.” Almost as soon as she started making and wearing her jewelry, people started asking - when is she going to start selling? In September 2018, Hamaila launched her website. She began working for Limbo Jewelry this year as a Jewelry Production Assistant which was a dream come true for her, having been a fan of their store and designs for years. Hamaila has also been a volunteer for the non-profit, Liberty for North Korea - which helps North Korean refugees. And even has a TEDx Talk detailing the work she did and helping to raise awareness on this topic. But there’s much more to her story, so enjoy my chat with Hamaila Qureshi.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/jeff-allegueJeff began learning classical guitar at the age of 10. He then learned the bass while in Bayport High School. Jeff was profiled in Guitar Player Magazine, Bass Player Magazine and Guitar for the Practicing Musician.
Along with his brother John, their band -The Tallboys had a video that appeared on MTV which led to their appearance on “Star Search,” where they won three consecutive shows and placed in the finals.
Jeff has also released a solo classical guitar album called “Gut Strings”. Plus, another instrumental guitar album, “The Lovely Savages”.
He went on to become the bassist for Taylor Dayne and toured the country for many years with her band.
Jeff just so happens to also be a founding member and bassist for the Trans-SIberian Orchestra. He was awarded 2 platinum and 4 gold records for his work with them.
Currently, Jeff is part of the tribute group called The Cover Girl Band, playing all over the New York area.
What is truly remarkable to me is that he has never had to work a regular job. That’s right. Through his music alone, he has managed to support himself and his family. You don’t hear that often.
And Jeff has so much more to say, so turn it up and enjoy my chat with Jeff Allegue.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18457148Mon, 08 Jul 2019 04:10:10 +0000TheArtistMattersOkay, so last week I featured Ariel, who was just starting her creative career. Well, this week we have an artist who has sustained a career in the music business for over 30 years. His name is is Jeff Allegue. Jeff began learning classical guitar...Jeff began learning classical guitar at the age of 10. He then learned the bass while in Bayport High School. Jeff was profiled in Guitar Player Magazine, Bass Player Magazine and Guitar for the Practicing Musician.
Along with his brother John, their band -The Tallboys had a video that appeared on MTV which led to their appearance on “Star Search,” where they won three consecutive shows and placed in the finals.
Jeff has also released a solo classical guitar album called “Gut Strings”. Plus, another instrumental guitar album, “The Lovely Savages”.
He went on to become the bassist for Taylor Dayne and toured the country for many years with her band.
Jeff just so happens to also be a founding member and bassist for the Trans-SIberian Orchestra. He was awarded 2 platinum and 4 gold records for his work with them.
Currently, Jeff is part of the tribute group called The Cover Girl Band, playing all over the New York area.
What is truly remarkable to me is that he has never had to work a regular job. That’s right. Through his music alone, he has managed to support himself and his family. You don’t hear that often.
And Jeff has so much more to say, so turn it up and enjoy my chat with Jeff Allegue.]]>3062art,artist,bass,billyidol,djal-x,guitar,jeffallegue,maximumtunage,music,musician,taylordayne,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,thearts,thebeatles,thecovergirlband,thetallboys,transsiberianorchestracleanfullTheArtistMattersOkay, so last week I featured Ariel, who was just starting her creative career. Well, this week we have an artist who has sustained a career in the music business for over 30 years. His name is is Jeff Allegue. Jeff began learning classical guitar at the age of 10. He then learned the bass while in Bayport High School. Jeff was profiled in Guitar Player Magazine, Bass Player Magazine and Guitar for the Practicing Musician. Along with his brother John, their band -The Tallboys had a video that appeared on MTV which led to their appearance on “Star Search,” where they won three consecutive shows and placed in the finals. Jeff has also released a solo classical guitar album called “Gut Strings”. Plus, another instrumental guitar album, “The Lovely Savages”. He went on to become the bassist for Taylor Dayne and toured the country for many years with her band. Jeff just so happens to also be a founding member and bassist for the Trans-SIberian Orchestra. He was awarded 2 platinum and 4 gold records for his work with them. Currently, Jeff is part of the tribute group called The Cover Girl Band, playing all over the New York area. What is truly remarkable to me is that he has never had to work a regular job. That’s right. Through his music alone, he has managed to support himself and his family. You don’t hear that often. And Jeff has so much more to say, so turn it up and enjoy my chat with Jeff Allegue.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/hannah-hasslerWell, today’s guest knows what it’s like to run a podcast because she has one. She is our first podcaster on the show and her name is Hannah Hassler.
She has been writing as far back as she can remember. For awhile, it was mostly academic writing, but it moved onto short stories and poetry.
Hannah has also worked in corrections and as an English teacher. Currently, she is virtual assistant and also tutors Chinese students.
Hannah tells of her struggles with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and how her writing has helped not only her, but other women dealing with it.
She also offers up some great tips on getting past writer’s block.
And her podcast (also the name of her website) is called "Rorschach Your Reality". The show aims to inspire and uplift those who need a little positivity.
There’s so much more, but why don’t you take a listen to my conversation with Hannah Hassler.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18528887Mon, 15 Jul 2019 11:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #20! Can you believe it? It’s still blows my mind that I actually have a podcast and am able to put out episodes on a weekly basis. And people actually listen to it. Thanks for being on the ride so far. Well, today’s guest knows...Well, today’s guest knows what it’s like to run a podcast because she has one. She is our first podcaster on the show and her name is Hannah Hassler.
She has been writing as far back as she can remember. For awhile, it was mostly academic writing, but it moved onto short stories and poetry.
Hannah has also worked in corrections and as an English teacher. Currently, she is virtual assistant and also tutors Chinese students.
Hannah tells of her struggles with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and how her writing has helped not only her, but other women dealing with it.
She also offers up some great tips on getting past writer’s block.
And her podcast (also the name of her website) is called "Rorschach Your Reality". The show aims to inspire and uplift those who need a little positivity.
There’s so much more, but why don’t you take a listen to my conversation with Hannah Hassler.]]>4466art,artist,hannahhassler,humanity,podcast,podcaster,poetry,rorschachyourreality,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,virtualasistant,writer,writersblockcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #20! Can you believe it? It’s still blows my mind that I actually have a podcast and am able to put out episodes on a weekly basis. And people actually listen to it. Thanks for being on the ride so far. Well, today’s guest knows what it’s like to run a podcast because she has one. She is our first podcaster on the show and her name is Hannah Hassler. She has been writing as far back as she can remember. For awhile, it was mostly academic writing, but it moved onto short stories and poetry. Hannah has also worked in corrections and as an English teacher. Currently, she is virtual assistant and also tutors Chinese students. Hannah tells of her struggles with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and how her writing has helped not only her, but other women dealing with it. She also offers up some great tips on getting past writer’s block. And her podcast (also the name of her website) is called "Rorschach Your Reality". The show aims to inspire and uplift those who need a little positivity. There’s so much more, but why don’t you take a listen to my conversation with Hannah Hassler.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/rebeca-flottToday we have painter, entrepreneur and podcaster, Rebeca Flott.
Painting was what she loved to do at an early age. But family finances were tight and canvases were not affordable. So, she improvised and painted on tiles, wood, whatever she could find.
But Rebeca yearned to make here mark in America. So, with only $500 in her pocket, she made the move, stopping in Florida first. She learned the language and had to find jobs to support her art. It’s here that she met her husband and together they decided to move to Colorado.
From there, they built up the business with her name in it, Rebeca Flott Arts. And to make her stand out, she went back to her roots and created a way of painting on screens. And business is thriving.
Plus she found time to have a son and even start a podcast called JUMP.
This was truly one of the most inspiring and touching conversations I’ve had yet. To come from another country and believe you can make a living with your creativity and talent and actually do that. A success story indeed.
Take a listen to my chat with Rebeca Flott.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18559001Mon, 22 Jul 2019 11:00:08 +0000TheArtistMattersHere we have a prime example of an artist living the American dream. But she had to leave her home country of Brazil to do it. Today we have painter, entrepreneur and podcaster, Rebeca Flott. Painting was what she loved to do at an early age. But...Today we have painter, entrepreneur and podcaster, Rebeca Flott.
Painting was what she loved to do at an early age. But family finances were tight and canvases were not affordable. So, she improvised and painted on tiles, wood, whatever she could find.
But Rebeca yearned to make here mark in America. So, with only $500 in her pocket, she made the move, stopping in Florida first. She learned the language and had to find jobs to support her art. It’s here that she met her husband and together they decided to move to Colorado.
From there, they built up the business with her name in it, Rebeca Flott Arts. And to make her stand out, she went back to her roots and created a way of painting on screens. And business is thriving.
Plus she found time to have a son and even start a podcast called JUMP.
This was truly one of the most inspiring and touching conversations I’ve had yet. To come from another country and believe you can make a living with your creativity and talent and actually do that. A success story indeed.
Take a listen to my chat with Rebeca Flott.]]>4173art,artist,brazil,dontkeepyourdayjob,jump,painter,painting,paintingwithatwist,podcast,podcaster,rebecaflott,rebecaflottarts,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersHere we have a prime example of an artist living the American dream. But she had to leave her home country of Brazil to do it. Today we have painter, entrepreneur and podcaster, Rebeca Flott. Painting was what she loved to do at an early age. But family finances were tight and canvases were not affordable. So, she improvised and painted on tiles, wood, whatever she could find. But Rebeca yearned to make here mark in America. So, with only $500 in her pocket, she made the move, stopping in Florida first. She learned the language and had to find jobs to support her art. It’s here that she met her husband and together they decided to move to Colorado. From there, they built up the business with her name in it, Rebeca Flott Arts. And to make her stand out, she went back to her roots and created a way of painting on screens. And business is thriving. Plus she found time to have a son and even start a podcast called JUMP. This was truly one of the most inspiring and touching conversations I’ve had yet. To come from another country and believe you can make a living with your creativity and talent and actually do that. A success story indeed. Take a listen to my chat with Rebeca Flott.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/sam-kimberleWelcome to the show, Sam Kimberle.
Sam was a lawyer and director of a non-profit, but felt these weren’t her calling. She needed a change and so, she ditched the corporate persona and is now a full-time creative.
Sam has found a place to publish her writing - from poems to articles - on the site called Medium. Here, writers can publish their work and actually make some money doing it.
She has also gone back to an art she enjoyed as a child - sculpting polymer clay. And just 4 months ago, she started Shine And Marvel Jewelry & Designs, selling her crafts, like: jewelry, decor items, ornaments and much more.
Congrats to you, Sam for taking this big leap. Show her some love and enjoy my conversation with Sam Kimberle.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18617535Mon, 29 Jul 2019 11:00:14 +0000TheArtistMattersToday’s guest has taken that leap of faith and left her day job to pursue her artistic endeavors just this past week. Welcome to the show, Sam Kimberle. Sam was a lawyer and director of a non-profit, but felt these weren’t her calling. She needed a...Welcome to the show, Sam Kimberle.
Sam was a lawyer and director of a non-profit, but felt these weren’t her calling. She needed a change and so, she ditched the corporate persona and is now a full-time creative.
Sam has found a place to publish her writing - from poems to articles - on the site called Medium. Here, writers can publish their work and actually make some money doing it.
She has also gone back to an art she enjoyed as a child - sculpting polymer clay. And just 4 months ago, she started Shine And Marvel Jewelry & Designs, selling her crafts, like: jewelry, decor items, ornaments and much more.
Congrats to you, Sam for taking this big leap. Show her some love and enjoy my conversation with Sam Kimberle.]]>3182art,artist,artists,dontkeepyourdayjob,jewelry,medium,poetry,polymerclay,samkimberle,shineandmarvel,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersToday’s guest has taken that leap of faith and left her day job to pursue her artistic endeavors just this past week. Welcome to the show, Sam Kimberle. Sam was a lawyer and director of a non-profit, but felt these weren’t her calling. She needed a change and so, she ditched the corporate persona and is now a full-time creative. Sam has found a place to publish her writing - from poems to articles - on the site called Medium. Here, writers can publish their work and actually make some money doing it. She has also gone back to an art she enjoyed as a child - sculpting polymer clay. And just 4 months ago, she started Shine And Marvel Jewelry & Designs, selling her crafts, like: jewelry, decor items, ornaments and much more. Congrats to you, Sam for taking this big leap. Show her some love and enjoy my conversation with Sam Kimberle.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/lucia-bonus-epEnjoy my conversation with this artistic and talented girl.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18714227Sat, 03 Aug 2019 12:17:01 +0000TheArtistMattersMy 7-year old granddaughter, Lucia wanted to chat with me on the show. So what do I do? I get her on the show in our first ever bonus episode. Enjoy my conversation with this artistic and talented girl.Enjoy my conversation with this artistic and talented girl.]]>1063art,ballet,bonusepisode,dancing,drawing,granddaughter,paint,painting,podcast,singing,tap,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,youtubecleanfullTheArtistMattersMy 7-year old granddaughter, Lucia wanted to chat with me on the show. So what do I do? I get her on the show in our first ever bonus episode. Enjoy my conversation with this artistic and talented girl.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/marci-geller-1From an early age, Marci constantly hears music. So it seemed inevitable that she would have to find a way to channel this. She began with the electric organ and would eventually move up to the piano.
Marci goes into what happens when she walks into a place and sees a piano there.
She also talks about her writing process and the Fearless Songwriter Challenge. She even shares how she’s had to deal with negative feedback and not allowing it to control her creativity.
Marci had so much to share that I am giving you another two-parter.
So, enjoy part one of my chat with Marci Geller.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18714276Mon, 05 Aug 2019 11:00:18 +0000TheArtistMattersDo you have to be a “starving artist” to pursue a career in the arts? Today’s guest would say absolutely not. She is musician, singer, songwriter - Marci Geller. Hailing from my old neck of the woods on Long Island, she has been in the music biz for...From an early age, Marci constantly hears music. So it seemed inevitable that she would have to find a way to channel this. She began with the electric organ and would eventually move up to the piano.
Marci goes into what happens when she walks into a place and sees a piano there.
She also talks about her writing process and the Fearless Songwriter Challenge. She even shares how she’s had to deal with negative feedback and not allowing it to control her creativity.
Marci had so much to share that I am giving you another two-parter.
So, enjoy part one of my chat with Marci Geller.]]>2888art,artist,fearlesssongwritingchallenge,marcigeller,music,musician,organ,piano,singer,songwriter,songwriting,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersDo you have to be a “starving artist” to pursue a career in the arts? Today’s guest would say absolutely not. She is musician, singer, songwriter - Marci Geller. Hailing from my old neck of the woods on Long Island, she has been in the music biz for decades. From an early age, Marci constantly hears music. So it seemed inevitable that she would have to find a way to channel this. She began with the electric organ and would eventually move up to the piano. Marci goes into what happens when she walks into a place and sees a piano there. She also talks about her writing process and the Fearless Songwriter Challenge. She even shares how she’s had to deal with negative feedback and not allowing it to control her creativity. Marci had so much to share that I am giving you another two-parter. So, enjoy part one of my chat with Marci Geller.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/marci-geller-2We talk about her performing with Blackmore’s Night and what is was like performing in another country. Marci explains how her album, “Bare” came about. She goes into how she found help from someone she was kind to in the past when her studio and equipment were ruined in a flood.
She also describes her style of music and of how her songwriting has evolved as she’s gotten older.
Marci gets deeper about dealing with depression and denying the dark side of the soul “air time”.
This final part of our conversation has so much to offer. You are going to get some gems of advice and a lot more.
Enjoy!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18783828Mon, 12 Aug 2019 11:00:11 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to the 2nd part of my incredible chat with Singer/Songwriter, Marci Geller. We talk about her performing with Blackmore’s Night and what is was like performing in another country. Marci explains how her album, “Bare” came about. She goes...We talk about her performing with Blackmore’s Night and what is was like performing in another country. Marci explains how her album, “Bare” came about. She goes into how she found help from someone she was kind to in the past when her studio and equipment were ruined in a flood.
She also describes her style of music and of how her songwriting has evolved as she’s gotten older.
Marci gets deeper about dealing with depression and denying the dark side of the soul “air time”.
This final part of our conversation has so much to offer. You are going to get some gems of advice and a lot more.
Enjoy!]]>3317art,artists,blackmoresnight,expression,marcigeller,music,musician,payingitforward,singer,songrwiting,songs,songwriter,soundtrack,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to the 2nd part of my incredible chat with Singer/Songwriter, Marci Geller. We talk about her performing with Blackmore’s Night and what is was like performing in another country. Marci explains how her album, “Bare” came about. She goes into how she found help from someone she was kind to in the past when her studio and equipment were ruined in a flood. She also describes her style of music and of how her songwriting has evolved as she’s gotten older. Marci gets deeper about dealing with depression and denying the dark side of the soul “air time”. This final part of our conversation has so much to offer. You are going to get some gems of advice and a lot more. Enjoy!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/clarissa-castillo-ramsey-2Her journey has taken her from Michigan to Texas to Massachusetts to California. Along the way she has played piano and guitar. Attended the Arts Center College of Design and Platt College. She has also studied under artists such as Rassouli, Jospeh Stoddard and Tom Fong.
Clarissa has also gotten into running vision board workshops. She is even writing a book which is a collection of inspirational stories of women over the age of 40 making a pivot in their lives.
She has even managed to become a Doctor of Psychology in Organizational Development.
Quite the journey. As I’m sure you will see. Enjoy my chat with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18815559Mon, 19 Aug 2019 11:00:19 +0000TheArtistMattersToday we have Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey. An artist with multiple skills and interests. Her journey has taken her from Michigan to Texas to Massachusetts to California. Along the way she has played piano and guitar. Attended the Arts Center College...Her journey has taken her from Michigan to Texas to Massachusetts to California. Along the way she has played piano and guitar. Attended the Arts Center College of Design and Platt College. She has also studied under artists such as Rassouli, Jospeh Stoddard and Tom Fong.
Clarissa has also gotten into running vision board workshops. She is even writing a book which is a collection of inspirational stories of women over the age of 40 making a pivot in their lives.
She has even managed to become a Doctor of Psychology in Organizational Development.
Quite the journey. As I’m sure you will see. Enjoy my chat with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey.]]>5122art,artist,dontkeepyourdayjob,inspirational,journey,painter,painting,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,visionboard,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersToday we have Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey. An artist with multiple skills and interests. Her journey has taken her from Michigan to Texas to Massachusetts to California. Along the way she has played piano and guitar. Attended the Arts Center College of Design and Platt College. She has also studied under artists such as Rassouli, Jospeh Stoddard and Tom Fong. Clarissa has also gotten into running vision board workshops. She is even writing a book which is a collection of inspirational stories of women over the age of 40 making a pivot in their lives. She has even managed to become a Doctor of Psychology in Organizational Development. Quite the journey. As I’m sure you will see. Enjoy my chat with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/mackenzie-hartBorn and raised on Long Island, NY, she seemed destined to be a creative. Her mother is a painter. Plus, one of her siblings is a well-known actress. Just wait...
When I lived in NY, I got to see Mackenzie in a talent show at a church singing “Landslide”. It was so cute and I knew this girl had talent. Flash forward to this year. Her mom posted on Facebook, a video of Mackenzie singing “Over The Rainbow” in various keys. Mind-blowing.
In her younger years, she did get to play Dorothy in a stage version of “The Wizard Of Oz” and continued doing shows throughout high school.
Mackenzie’s first official paid project was when she was 17 as background in “The SantaCon”, a Lifetime Christmas movie.
She furthered her education in Theatre at Wagner College for a year and a half and then at Hunter College. But moved out to LA to pursue acting more seriously, instead of finishing her degree straight through in New York. Within the first four months of living in LA, Mackenzie booked her first film credit in the Pure Flix series, “The Encounter”. 
This is quite the memorable conversation and I can’t wait for you to listen. So, check out my chat with Mackenzie Lee Hart!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18894762Mon, 26 Aug 2019 11:00:06 +0000TheArtistMattersOnce again, I am featuring an artist just at the beginning of their career. Today we have actress, Mackenzie Lee Hart. Born and raised on Long Island, NY, she seemed destined to be a creative. Her mother is a painter. Plus, one of her siblings is a...Born and raised on Long Island, NY, she seemed destined to be a creative. Her mother is a painter. Plus, one of her siblings is a well-known actress. Just wait...
When I lived in NY, I got to see Mackenzie in a talent show at a church singing “Landslide”. It was so cute and I knew this girl had talent. Flash forward to this year. Her mom posted on Facebook, a video of Mackenzie singing “Over The Rainbow” in various keys. Mind-blowing.
In her younger years, she did get to play Dorothy in a stage version of “The Wizard Of Oz” and continued doing shows throughout high school.
Mackenzie’s first official paid project was when she was 17 as background in “The SantaCon”, a Lifetime Christmas movie.
She furthered her education in Theatre at Wagner College for a year and a half and then at Hunter College. But moved out to LA to pursue acting more seriously, instead of finishing her degree straight through in New York. Within the first four months of living in LA, Mackenzie booked her first film credit in the Pure Flix series, “The Encounter”. 
This is quite the memorable conversation and I can’t wait for you to listen. So, check out my chat with Mackenzie Lee Hart!]]>3466acting,actress,artist,arts,film,la,mackenzieleehart,melissajoanhart,overtherainbow,singing,talent,talentshow,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,theatre,wizardofozyesfullTheArtistMattersOnce again, I am featuring an artist just at the beginning of their career. Today we have actress, Mackenzie Lee Hart. Born and raised on Long Island, NY, she seemed destined to be a creative. Her mother is a painter. Plus, one of her siblings is a well-known actress. Just wait... When I lived in NY, I got to see Mackenzie in a talent show at a church singing “Landslide”. It was so cute and I knew this girl had talent. Flash forward to this year. Her mom posted on Facebook, a video of Mackenzie singing “Over The Rainbow” in various keys. Mind-blowing. In her younger years, she did get to play Dorothy in a stage version of “The Wizard Of Oz” and continued doing shows throughout high school. Mackenzie’s first official paid project was when she was 17 as background in “The SantaCon”, a Lifetime Christmas movie. She furthered her education in Theatre at Wagner College for a year and a half and then at Hunter College. But moved out to LA to pursue acting more seriously, instead of finishing her degree straight through in New York. Within the first four months of living in LA, Mackenzie booked her first film credit in the Pure Flix series, “The Encounter”.  This is quite the memorable conversation and I can’t wait for you to listen. So, check out my chat with Mackenzie Lee Hart!Yeshttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/kelly-darkeAs a kid, growing up in Michigan, Kelly always collected fabric, yarn, string, all kinds of fiber materials before she even knew what to do with any of them. She learned some techniques on her own including embroidery, which is her current focus.
Kelly received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1996, from Wayne State University in Michigan. There, she spent most of her time oil painting and making jewelry, crocheting with sterling silver wire and weaving in metals class.
After a few years, Kelly got her Masters in Education for art therapy in 2009. It was during this program that she began to shift towards fiber art. She eventually opened the Mindful Art Center helping people heal through several art forms, including: painting, writing, drawing, fiber, etc.
She offers so much insight into her creative world and the healing power of the arts. I know you will enjoy my conversation with Kelly Darke.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18944886Mon, 02 Sep 2019 11:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersOn today’s show, we have 2 firsts. Our guest is our first fiber artist and also our first art therapist. That’s right. You get two for the price of one. And her name is Kelly Darke. As a kid, growing up in Michigan, Kelly always collected fabric,...As a kid, growing up in Michigan, Kelly always collected fabric, yarn, string, all kinds of fiber materials before she even knew what to do with any of them. She learned some techniques on her own including embroidery, which is her current focus.
Kelly received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1996, from Wayne State University in Michigan. There, she spent most of her time oil painting and making jewelry, crocheting with sterling silver wire and weaving in metals class.
After a few years, Kelly got her Masters in Education for art therapy in 2009. It was during this program that she began to shift towards fiber art. She eventually opened the Mindful Art Center helping people heal through several art forms, including: painting, writing, drawing, fiber, etc.
She offers so much insight into her creative world and the healing power of the arts. I know you will enjoy my conversation with Kelly Darke.]]>3441art,artist,arts,arttherapist,arttherapy,creativity,design,dontkeepyourdayjob,fiberart,healing,kellydarke,mindfulartcenter,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,therapy,waynestateuniversitycleanfullTheArtistMattersOn today’s show, we have 2 firsts. Our guest is our first fiber artist and also our first art therapist. That’s right. You get two for the price of one. And her name is Kelly Darke. As a kid, growing up in Michigan, Kelly always collected fabric, yarn, string, all kinds of fiber materials before she even knew what to do with any of them. She learned some techniques on her own including embroidery, which is her current focus. Kelly received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1996, from Wayne State University in Michigan. There, she spent most of her time oil painting and making jewelry, crocheting with sterling silver wire and weaving in metals class. After a few years, Kelly got her Masters in Education for art therapy in 2009. It was during this program that she began to shift towards fiber art. She eventually opened the Mindful Art Center helping people heal through several art forms, including: painting, writing, drawing, fiber, etc. She offers so much insight into her creative world and the healing power of the arts. I know you will enjoy my conversation with Kelly Darke.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/rebekah-mcgillShe came about woodworking in the typical way that many in the trades do, her father was a woodworker and he would let her watch and help, as she got older.
But Rebekah abandoned the craft in her teen years, probably feeling she needed to be more feminine and started liking boys. She tried painting and drawing, but was lost without an outlet.
It was through Cathy Heller’s Dreamtopia event last year, that something inside her cracked open and she knew she had to pursue woodworking. Even if it was to fail quickly and put it to rest.
Thankfully, that was not the case. With the help of her father, Rebekah created her first board. She explains her process, raising twins and so much more. Rebekah sees herself getting more into furniture and custom built ins or feature walls. To her, It would be so inspiring to trim a whole house with pink baseboards or crown molding. She loves that idea of whimsy and personalization entering the home decor market.
With that, enjoy my chat with Rebekah McGill.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19032710Mon, 09 Sep 2019 11:00:16 +0000TheArtistMattersToday we have Rebekah McGill, our first woodworking artist. She came about woodworking in the typical way that many in the trades do, her father was a woodworker and he would let her watch and help, as she got older. But Rebekah abandoned the craft...She came about woodworking in the typical way that many in the trades do, her father was a woodworker and he would let her watch and help, as she got older.
But Rebekah abandoned the craft in her teen years, probably feeling she needed to be more feminine and started liking boys. She tried painting and drawing, but was lost without an outlet.
It was through Cathy Heller’s Dreamtopia event last year, that something inside her cracked open and she knew she had to pursue woodworking. Even if it was to fail quickly and put it to rest.
Thankfully, that was not the case. With the help of her father, Rebekah created her first board. She explains her process, raising twins and so much more. Rebekah sees herself getting more into furniture and custom built ins or feature walls. To her, It would be so inspiring to trim a whole house with pink baseboards or crown molding. She loves that idea of whimsy and personalization entering the home decor market.
With that, enjoy my chat with Rebekah McGill.]]>2400art,artist,bekajanedesign,brenebrown,cathyheller,creativity,design,dontkeepyourdayjob,dreamtopia,podcast,rebeccaflott,rebekahmcgill,soul,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,woodworking,woodworkingformeremortalscleanfullTheArtistMattersToday we have Rebekah McGill, our first woodworking artist. She came about woodworking in the typical way that many in the trades do, her father was a woodworker and he would let her watch and help, as she got older. But Rebekah abandoned the craft in her teen years, probably feeling she needed to be more feminine and started liking boys. She tried painting and drawing, but was lost without an outlet. It was through Cathy Heller’s Dreamtopia event last year, that something inside her cracked open and she knew she had to pursue woodworking. Even if it was to fail quickly and put it to rest. Thankfully, that was not the case. With the help of her father, Rebekah created her first board. She explains her process, raising twins and so much more. Rebekah sees herself getting more into furniture and custom built ins or feature walls. To her, It would be so inspiring to trim a whole house with pink baseboards or crown molding. She loves that idea of whimsy and personalization entering the home decor market. With that, enjoy my chat with Rebekah McGill.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/joe-dunganHe got into an improv group in college and even dabbled in acting.
Joe also wrote a book called, “L.A. Nuts”, which won first place in the Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards.
But the stand-up stage was calling him once again, so he answered the call. Joe wanted to be better prepared this time around, so he decided to comedy classes at the Stand-Up Comedy Clinic. And for the last 7-plus years, Joe has appeared at various venues, festivals, and corporate events all over the country, such as: The Comedy Store, the Laugh Factory and the Ice House.
In 2017, he won first place in the Clean Comedy Challenge. He has since gone on to be the host and head writer of the You Tube talk show, Late Night Cup of Joe.
Joe also goes into his writing process and what makes for a good joke and good comedy, for that matter.
Joe was such a generous, enjoyable and funny guest. I know you will get so much out of this conversation and may decide to go to an open mic night. Enjoy my chat with Joe Dungan.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19085604Mon, 16 Sep 2019 11:00:05 +0000TheArtistMattersToday we have, haling from California, comedian, Joe Dungan. He first attempted stand-up comedy at 18, but he bombed and didn’t think he had it in him to keep going. He got into an improv group in college and even dabbled in acting. Joe also wrote...He got into an improv group in college and even dabbled in acting.
Joe also wrote a book called, “L.A. Nuts”, which won first place in the Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards.
But the stand-up stage was calling him once again, so he answered the call. Joe wanted to be better prepared this time around, so he decided to comedy classes at the Stand-Up Comedy Clinic. And for the last 7-plus years, Joe has appeared at various venues, festivals, and corporate events all over the country, such as: The Comedy Store, the Laugh Factory and the Ice House.
In 2017, he won first place in the Clean Comedy Challenge. He has since gone on to be the host and head writer of the You Tube talk show, Late Night Cup of Joe.
Joe also goes into his writing process and what makes for a good joke and good comedy, for that matter.
Joe was such a generous, enjoyable and funny guest. I know you will get so much out of this conversation and may decide to go to an open mic night. Enjoy my chat with Joe Dungan.]]>5049art,artist,comedian,comedy,dontkeepyourdayjob,improv,joedungan,l.a.nuts,lightnightcupofjie,sketch,standup,standupcomedy,standupcomedyclinic,standupcomic,theartistmatters,writer,writingyesfullTheArtistMattersToday we have, haling from California, comedian, Joe Dungan. He first attempted stand-up comedy at 18, but he bombed and didn’t think he had it in him to keep going. He got into an improv group in college and even dabbled in acting. Joe also wrote a book called, “L.A. Nuts”, which won first place in the Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards. But the stand-up stage was calling him once again, so he answered the call. Joe wanted to be better prepared this time around, so he decided to comedy classes at the Stand-Up Comedy Clinic. And for the last 7-plus years, Joe has appeared at various venues, festivals, and corporate events all over the country, such as: The Comedy Store, the Laugh Factory and the Ice House. In 2017, he won first place in the Clean Comedy Challenge. He has since gone on to be the host and head writer of the You Tube talk show, Late Night Cup of Joe. Joe also goes into his writing process and what makes for a good joke and good comedy, for that matter. Joe was such a generous, enjoyable and funny guest. I know you will get so much out of this conversation and may decide to go to an open mic night. Enjoy my chat with Joe Dungan.Yeshttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/katie-welchAnd to top it all off, Katie has her BA in Theater and Masters in ESE Education. This led to her being an ESE, 2nd-3rd Grade and Drama Teacher at CuttingEdge Learning Academy.
This young woman has accomplished so much and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. I’m sure her persistence will pay off.
Enjoy my chat with Katie Welch.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19174345Mon, 23 Sep 2019 11:00:17 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to show #30. Today we have our youngest person who founded a theatre company. Hailing from Florida, my guest is Katie Welch. She has been in theatre since she was 9 years old. Some of her favorite shows she was in were "Beauty and the...And to top it all off, Katie has her BA in Theater and Masters in ESE Education. This led to her being an ESE, 2nd-3rd Grade and Drama Teacher at CuttingEdge Learning Academy.
This young woman has accomplished so much and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. I’m sure her persistence will pay off.
Enjoy my chat with Katie Welch.]]>3158actor,art,artist,broadwayeverydaystartheater,cuttingedgelearningacademy,education,katiewelch,musical,plays,script,stage,teacher,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,theatrecompany,theatrical,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to show #30. Today we have our youngest person who founded a theatre company. Hailing from Florida, my guest is Katie Welch. She has been in theatre since she was 9 years old. Some of her favorite shows she was in were "Beauty and the Beast"," Annie", "Secret Garden", "It's a Wonderful Life", "Through the Shop Window", "Wizard of OZ" and "Peter Pan", just to name a few. Katie also found she had a talent for writing and wrote her first play, "A Talent for Murder". Then, she decided she wanted to create her own theatre company and created Broadway Everyday Star Theater, last year. The upcoming show is Broadway Musical Review, which Katie is directing. She is also writing another play called "Blind Date Cafe", based on her parents. And to top it all off, Katie has her BA in Theater and Masters in ESE Education. This led to her being an ESE, 2nd-3rd Grade and Drama Teacher at CuttingEdge Learning Academy. This young woman has accomplished so much and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. I’m sure her persistence will pay off. Enjoy my chat with Katie Welch.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/alex-ferrari-comboLast year, when I was making my short film, THE PARK, I was looking for any info to help me with the process. Something made me look into podcasts and I found “Indie Film Hustle” with Alex Ferrari. He covered so many facets of the filmmaking process and business, I was hooked. It showed me that I could make this short film and that I could direct it.
And you know what, I just decided to reach out to Alex and see if he’d be interested in being a guest on my show. I knew it was a long shot, but it couldn’t hurt to ask. Much to my delight and surprise, he said yes. And today is the day that you will experience one of the most engaging and motivating conversations I’ve had yet.
Alex Ferrari is an author, blogger, speaker, consultant, the host of the #1 filmmaking podcast on iTunes Indie Film Hustle Podcast, and an award-winning writer/director with 25 years of experience in the film industry. As a director, his films have screened in over 500 international film festivals. 
Alex exploded onto the indie film scene with his award-winning short film BROKEN. To date, the film has screened at over 200 international festivals.
Through self-distribution, the BROKEN: Special Edition DVD has also sold over 5000 units worldwide. Produced on a budget of $8000 and boasting over 100 visual effects shots, BROKEN is one of the most celebrated shorts in recent years.
Frustrated that his fellow filmmakers were being "chewed up" by the film business, Alex decided to start Indie Film Hustle®, a website dedicated to educating filmmakers and artists on how to survive and thrive in the film business. He also launched a podcast focused on filmmaking called The Indie Film Hustle® Podcast. Within three months of its start date. the show became the #1 filmmaking podcast on Apple Podcasts. He's also the host of the popular screenwriting podcast Bulletproof Screenwriting®, and the filmmaking business podcast Filmtrepreneur®.
After launching Indie Film Hustle, Alex created the world's first streaming service dedicated to filmmakers, screenwriters, content creators and artists called Indie Film Hustle TV (IFHTV).
Alex's feature film debut was the award-winning This is Meg.  Alex wore many hats on this indie film including directing, producing, cinematographer, cameraman, editor, and colorist. The film was sold to Hulu and is available on IFHTV, Apple TV, and Amazon. 
His second feature film was On The Corner of Ego & Desire, which was filmed at the Sundance Film Festival.
And if that wasn’t enough, Alex also has another book coming out in October, called “Rise of the Filmtrepreneur”.
As you can see, he is a very busy man, so this interview was a total gift and I am forever grateful that a fellow Alex took the time to be on the show. And you are in for a real treat because you are about to get a master class.
Enjoy this epic conversation with Alex Ferrari.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19238121Mon, 30 Sep 2019 11:00:16 +0000TheArtistMattersOkay, everybody. Brace yourselves. This episode is a big one. Last year, when I was making my short film, THE PARK, I was looking for any info to help me with the process. Something made me look into podcasts and I found “Indie Film Hustle” with...Last year, when I was making my short film, THE PARK, I was looking for any info to help me with the process. Something made me look into podcasts and I found “Indie Film Hustle” with Alex Ferrari. He covered so many facets of the filmmaking process and business, I was hooked. It showed me that I could make this short film and that I could direct it.
And you know what, I just decided to reach out to Alex and see if he’d be interested in being a guest on my show. I knew it was a long shot, but it couldn’t hurt to ask. Much to my delight and surprise, he said yes. And today is the day that you will experience one of the most engaging and motivating conversations I’ve had yet.
Alex Ferrari is an author, blogger, speaker, consultant, the host of the #1 filmmaking podcast on iTunes Indie Film Hustle Podcast, and an award-winning writer/director with 25 years of experience in the film industry. As a director, his films have screened in over 500 international film festivals. 
Alex exploded onto the indie film scene with his award-winning short film BROKEN. To date, the film has screened at over 200 international festivals.
Through self-distribution, the BROKEN: Special Edition DVD has also sold over 5000 units worldwide. Produced on a budget of $8000 and boasting over 100 visual effects shots, BROKEN is one of the most celebrated shorts in recent years.
Frustrated that his fellow filmmakers were being "chewed up" by the film business, Alex decided to start Indie Film Hustle®, a website dedicated to educating filmmakers and artists on how to survive and thrive in the film business. He also launched a podcast focused on filmmaking called The Indie Film Hustle® Podcast. Within three months of its start date. the show became the #1 filmmaking podcast on Apple Podcasts. He's also the host of the popular screenwriting podcast Bulletproof Screenwriting®, and the filmmaking business podcast Filmtrepreneur®.
After launching Indie Film Hustle, Alex created the world's first streaming service dedicated to filmmakers, screenwriters, content creators and artists called Indie Film Hustle TV (IFHTV).
Alex's feature film debut was the award-winning This is Meg.  Alex wore many hats on this indie film including directing, producing, cinematographer, cameraman, editor, and colorist. The film was sold to Hulu and is available on IFHTV, Apple TV, and Amazon. 
His second feature film was On The Corner of Ego & Desire, which was filmed at the Sundance Film Festival.
And if that wasn’t enough, Alex also has another book coming out in October, called “Rise of the Filmtrepreneur”.
As you can see, he is a very busy man, so this interview was a total gift and I am forever grateful that a fellow Alex took the time to be on the show. And you are in for a real treat because you are about to get a master class.
Enjoy this epic conversation with Alex Ferrari.]]>8291alexferrari,alexrudy,art,artist,bulletproofscreenplay,film,filmbiz,filmmaker,filmmaking,filmtrepreneur,hustle,ifhtv,indiefilm,indiefilmhustle,motivation,movies,podcasting,showbusiness,theartistmatters,theartistreallymattersyesfullTheArtistMattersOkay, everybody. Brace yourselves. This episode is a big one. Last year, when I was making my short film, THE PARK, I was looking for any info to help me with the process. Something made me look into podcasts and I found “Indie Film Hustle” with Alex Ferrari. He covered so many facets of the filmmaking process and business, I was hooked. It showed me that I could make this short film and that I could direct it. And you know what, I just decided to reach out to Alex and see if he’d be interested in being a guest on my show. I knew it was a long shot, but it couldn’t hurt to ask. Much to my delight and surprise, he said yes. And today is the day that you will experience one of the most engaging and motivating conversations I’ve had yet. Alex Ferrari is an author, blogger, speaker, consultant, the host of the #1 filmmaking podcast on iTunes Indie Film Hustle Podcast, and an award-winning writer/director with 25 years of experience in the film industry. As a director, his films have screened in over 500 international film festivals.  Alex exploded onto the indie film scene with his award-winning short film BROKEN. To date, the film has screened at over 200 international festivals. Through self-distribution, the BROKEN: Special Edition DVD has also sold over 5000 units worldwide. Produced on a budget of $8000 and boasting over 100 visual effects shots, BROKEN is one of the most celebrated shorts in recent years. Frustrated that his fellow filmmakers were being "chewed up" by the film business, Alex decided to start Indie Film Hustle®, a website dedicated to educating filmmakers and artists on how to survive and thrive in the film business. He also launched a podcast focused on filmmaking called The Indie Film Hustle® Podcast. Within three months of its start date. the show became the #1 filmmaking podcast on Apple Podcasts. He's also the host of the popular screenwriting podcast Bulletproof Screenwriting®, and the filmmaking business podcast Filmtrepreneur®. After launching Indie Film Hustle, Alex created the world's first streaming service dedicated to filmmakers, screenwriters, content creators and artists called Indie Film Hustle TV (IFHTV). Alex's feature film debut was the award-winning This is Meg.  Alex wore many hats on this indie film including directing, producing, cinematographer, cameraman, editor, and colorist. The film was sold to Hulu and is available on IFHTV, Apple TV, and Amazon.  His second feature film was On The Corner of Ego & Desire, which was filmed at the Sundance Film Festival. And if that wasn’t enough, Alex also has another book coming out in October, called “Rise of the Filmtrepreneur”. As you can see, he is a very busy man, so this interview was a total gift and I am forever grateful that a fellow Alex took the time to be on the show. And you are in for a real treat because you are about to get a master class. Enjoy this epic conversation with Alex Ferrari.Yeshttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/alex-dunningFirst up, we have another Alex. Hailing from Minnesota, now residing in Colorado, it’s special F/X make-up artist and Haunter, Alex Dunning.
He began as a volunteer actor aboard the haunted ship, the William A Irvin. He eventually moved up to scenic design and then, make-up.
In later years, he took over the haunted ship which enabled him to further explore his creativity. He even attended the Midwest Haunter’s Convention, where he was able to tour various haunted attractions and learn from industry pros.
Alex also did make-up for a local TV show, plus parties and pub crawls. And he made himself up as Pennywise from “IT“.
He goes into his make-up process and techniques. Plus, lots of behind-the-scenes info on running a haunted attraction, what makes for a good scare and so much more.
Enjoy my chat with Alex Dunning.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19368687Mon, 07 Oct 2019 11:00:07 +0000TheArtistMattersWe are getting into the Halloween season and spotlighting artists this month who work in the Halloween/horror genre. First up, we have another Alex. Hailing from Minnesota, now residing in Colorado, it’s special F/X make-up artist and Haunter, Alex...First up, we have another Alex. Hailing from Minnesota, now residing in Colorado, it’s special F/X make-up artist and Haunter, Alex Dunning.
He began as a volunteer actor aboard the haunted ship, the William A Irvin. He eventually moved up to scenic design and then, make-up.
In later years, he took over the haunted ship which enabled him to further explore his creativity. He even attended the Midwest Haunter’s Convention, where he was able to tour various haunted attractions and learn from industry pros.
Alex also did make-up for a local TV show, plus parties and pub crawls. And he made himself up as Pennywise from “IT“.
He goes into his make-up process and techniques. Plus, lots of behind-the-scenes info on running a haunted attraction, what makes for a good scare and so much more.
Enjoy my chat with Alex Dunning.]]>4146alexdunning,alexrudy,art,artist,artists,halloween,haunt,hauntedattraction,hauntedship,horror,makeup,scary,specialfxmakeup,spooky,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,williamairvincleanfullTheArtistMattersWe are getting into the Halloween season and spotlighting artists this month who work in the Halloween/horror genre. First up, we have another Alex. Hailing from Minnesota, now residing in Colorado, it’s special F/X make-up artist and Haunter, Alex Dunning. He began as a volunteer actor aboard the haunted ship, the William A Irvin. He eventually moved up to scenic design and then, make-up. In later years, he took over the haunted ship which enabled him to further explore his creativity. He even attended the Midwest Haunter’s Convention, where he was able to tour various haunted attractions and learn from industry pros. Alex also did make-up for a local TV show, plus parties and pub crawls. And he made himself up as Pennywise from “IT“. He goes into his make-up process and techniques. Plus, lots of behind-the-scenes info on running a haunted attraction, what makes for a good scare and so much more. Enjoy my chat with Alex Dunning.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/robert-ottoneAnd the Ottones favorite holiday is Halloween. They would go all out and create elaborate and imaginative decorations, sets and costumes.
And what better time of year for Robert to release his first horror collection, People: A Horror Anthology about Love, Loss, Life & Things That Go Bump in the Night.
His love of writing goes back to his childhood when he wrote his own superhero comics. Robert goes into his writing process and how this anthology came about. Also, how he gets past writer’s block, how he got the book published and info on the second anthology due out next year.
In addition to this, I had him do some voice-over acting for me back in 1999 for my audio recording of the Marvel saga, Avengers : Under Siege. And if that isn’t enough, he is also an English Teacher.
So proud to see him make this step and become a published author. Very inspiring and an absolute thrill to have shared this time with him.
Enjoy my chat with Robert Ottone.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19468582Mon, 14 Oct 2019 11:00:06 +0000TheArtistMattersThe month of Halloween continues. Today’s guest, Robert Ottone, I have known since he was little boy. Starting in my junior year, I was a disc jockey at my high school radio station, WXBA. His father, the late, great Bob Ottone was the station...And the Ottones favorite holiday is Halloween. They would go all out and create elaborate and imaginative decorations, sets and costumes.
And what better time of year for Robert to release his first horror collection, People: A Horror Anthology about Love, Loss, Life & Things That Go Bump in the Night.
His love of writing goes back to his childhood when he wrote his own superhero comics. Robert goes into his writing process and how this anthology came about. Also, how he gets past writer’s block, how he got the book published and info on the second anthology due out next year.
In addition to this, I had him do some voice-over acting for me back in 1999 for my audio recording of the Marvel saga, Avengers : Under Siege. And if that isn’t enough, he is also an English Teacher.
So proud to see him make this step and become a published author. Very inspiring and an absolute thrill to have shared this time with him.
Enjoy my chat with Robert Ottone.]]>4928alexrudy,anthology,art,artist,author,comicbooks,comics,halloween,horror,publishing,robertottone,scarystories,story,teacher,teaching,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,voiceover,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersThe month of Halloween continues. Today’s guest, Robert Ottone, I have known since he was little boy. Starting in my junior year, I was a disc jockey at my high school radio station, WXBA. His father, the late, great Bob Ottone was the station manager. Learned how to come out of my shell and actually have a radio personality thanks to Bob. And the Ottones favorite holiday is Halloween. They would go all out and create elaborate and imaginative decorations, sets and costumes. And what better time of year for Robert to release his first horror collection, People: A Horror Anthology about Love, Loss, Life & Things That Go Bump in the Night. His love of writing goes back to his childhood when he wrote his own superhero comics. Robert goes into his writing process and how this anthology came about. Also, how he gets past writer’s block, how he got the book published and info on the second anthology due out next year. In addition to this, I had him do some voice-over acting for me back in 1999 for my audio recording of the Marvel saga, Avengers : Under Siege. And if that isn’t enough, he is also an English Teacher. So proud to see him make this step and become a published author. Very inspiring and an absolute thrill to have shared this time with him. Enjoy my chat with Robert Ottone.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/greg-chapmanHe is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated® and Australian Shadows Award-nominated author of Hollow House and the author of five novellas: Torment, The Noctuary, Vaudeville, The Last Night of October and The Followers. His debut collection, Vaudeville and Other Nightmares, was published in 2014 and re-released as an illustrated edition in April 2019. His second novel, The Noctuary: Pandemonium, the sequel to his acclaimed 2011 novella, was published in late 2017. His third novel, Netherkind, was published in May, 2019.
He is also a horror artist, creating illustrations and designs for many of his own books, plus artwork for other books. His first graphic novel, Witch Hunts: A Graphic History of the Burning Times, written by authors Rocky Wood and Lisa Morton, won the Superior Achievement in a Graphic Novel category at the Bram Stoker Awards® in 2013.
Such a talent and I know you will enjoy this conversation as much I did. Take a listen to me and Greg Chapman.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19592409Mon, 21 Oct 2019 11:00:16 +0000TheArtistMattersThe Halloween fun continues with my first ever international guest. Hailing all the way from Australia, we have Greg Chapman. He is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated® and Australian Shadows Award-nominated author of Hollow House and the author of five...He is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated® and Australian Shadows Award-nominated author of Hollow House and the author of five novellas: Torment, The Noctuary, Vaudeville, The Last Night of October and The Followers. His debut collection, Vaudeville and Other Nightmares, was published in 2014 and re-released as an illustrated edition in April 2019. His second novel, The Noctuary: Pandemonium, the sequel to his acclaimed 2011 novella, was published in late 2017. His third novel, Netherkind, was published in May, 2019.
He is also a horror artist, creating illustrations and designs for many of his own books, plus artwork for other books. His first graphic novel, Witch Hunts: A Graphic History of the Burning Times, written by authors Rocky Wood and Lisa Morton, won the Superior Achievement in a Graphic Novel category at the Bram Stoker Awards® in 2013.
Such a talent and I know you will enjoy this conversation as much I did. Take a listen to me and Greg Chapman.]]>4546art,artist,australia,author,bramstoker,comics,darkartisan,darkartiste,darkskrybe,drawing,genre,gregchapman,halloween,horror,illustration,illustrator,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersThe Halloween fun continues with my first ever international guest. Hailing all the way from Australia, we have Greg Chapman. He is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated® and Australian Shadows Award-nominated author of Hollow House and the author of five novellas: Torment, The Noctuary, Vaudeville, The Last Night of October and The Followers. His debut collection, Vaudeville and Other Nightmares, was published in 2014 and re-released as an illustrated edition in April 2019. His second novel, The Noctuary: Pandemonium, the sequel to his acclaimed 2011 novella, was published in late 2017. His third novel, Netherkind, was published in May, 2019. He is also a horror artist, creating illustrations and designs for many of his own books, plus artwork for other books. His first graphic novel, Witch Hunts: A Graphic History of the Burning Times, written by authors Rocky Wood and Lisa Morton, won the Superior Achievement in a Graphic Novel category at the Bram Stoker Awards® in 2013. Such a talent and I know you will enjoy this conversation as much I did. Take a listen to me and Greg Chapman.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/cig-neutronCig started off in Indiana and found a love of special f/x make-up watching horror movies. He went on to the Tom Savini’s Special Make-Up Effects Program in Pennsylvania. After graduating, Cig made a bee-line to California. Through a friend, he got work doing molding for the movie, Tron : Legacy. He forged a partnership with another creative spirit, Rannie Rodil and they created BizarroAuGoGo.
And then, Cig tried out for the show, Face Off. Didn’t make it on to Season 2, but finally got to compete in season 7, making it all the way to the finale as a runner-up. He came back for the All-Star competition in season 11 and this time, he was the winner.
He has kept busy since then creating more make-ups and sculpts on various projects like, Star Trek Discovery and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Cig even has his own podcast called Spewtron and is also working on making a feature film.
This is a definite treat to round out the month. Had such blast and very grateful he took the time to chat with me.
Take a listen, enjoy and share my conversation with Cig Neutron.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19717085Mon, 28 Oct 2019 11:00:12 +0000TheArtistMattersWe finish up our Halloween themed month of October with a doozy of a guest. You may know him from the Syfy special f/x make-up competition show, Face Off. He competed in season 7 and won season 11. It is Cig Neutron. Cig started off in Indiana and...Cig started off in Indiana and found a love of special f/x make-up watching horror movies. He went on to the Tom Savini’s Special Make-Up Effects Program in Pennsylvania. After graduating, Cig made a bee-line to California. Through a friend, he got work doing molding for the movie, Tron : Legacy. He forged a partnership with another creative spirit, Rannie Rodil and they created BizarroAuGoGo.
And then, Cig tried out for the show, Face Off. Didn’t make it on to Season 2, but finally got to compete in season 7, making it all the way to the finale as a runner-up. He came back for the All-Star competition in season 11 and this time, he was the winner.
He has kept busy since then creating more make-ups and sculpts on various projects like, Star Trek Discovery and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Cig even has his own podcast called Spewtron and is also working on making a feature film.
This is a definite treat to round out the month. Had such blast and very grateful he took the time to chat with me.
Take a listen, enjoy and share my conversation with Cig Neutron.]]>4274art,artist,bizarroaugogo,cigneutron,cosplay,creative,faceoff,halloween,makeup,movies,rannierodil,sculpting,sculptor,specialfx,specialfxmakeup,spewtron,syfy,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWe finish up our Halloween themed month of October with a doozy of a guest. You may know him from the Syfy special f/x make-up competition show, Face Off. He competed in season 7 and won season 11. It is Cig Neutron. Cig started off in Indiana and found a love of special f/x make-up watching horror movies. He went on to the Tom Savini’s Special Make-Up Effects Program in Pennsylvania. After graduating, Cig made a bee-line to California. Through a friend, he got work doing molding for the movie, Tron : Legacy. He forged a partnership with another creative spirit, Rannie Rodil and they created BizarroAuGoGo. And then, Cig tried out for the show, Face Off. Didn’t make it on to Season 2, but finally got to compete in season 7, making it all the way to the finale as a runner-up. He came back for the All-Star competition in season 11 and this time, he was the winner. He has kept busy since then creating more make-ups and sculpts on various projects like, Star Trek Discovery and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Cig even has his own podcast called Spewtron and is also working on making a feature film. This is a definite treat to round out the month. Had such blast and very grateful he took the time to chat with me. Take a listen, enjoy and share my conversation with Cig Neutron.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/elke-blasiShe is Producer/Writer/Director, Elke Blasi.
Another Long Islander, Elke was a fan of horror movies at a young age. She wrote her first script at age 11. Went to the NY Film Academy. Made several short films and optioned some scripts while in California learning about the biz.
But like many creatives, life got in the way and her dreams took a back seat. After a terrible hand injury left her disabled, something clicked. She realized she was given a gift of time and used it to write, produce and direct her first feature film, *69. A supernatural thriller with horrific elements.
This film took her a long time to complete. And Elke explains the process of concept to screen , her writing and directing process and the many challenges she faced making the film.
Since completing *69, Elke has kept busy making short films again and developing another film - this time, a romantic comedy - called Ladies and Gentlemen, which explores the double standards between men and women.
So grateful to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. This episode is full of filmmaking and life lessons. I know you will enjoy this one. So, take a listen to my chat with Elke Blasi.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19828330Mon, 04 Nov 2019 12:00:19 +0000TheArtistMattersTime to start off November. There is still some Halloween influence here. Very hard for me to let go of that holiday. Today’s guest has a bit of a foot still in the genre. She is Producer/Writer/Director, Elke Blasi. Another Long Islander, Elke was...She is Producer/Writer/Director, Elke Blasi.
Another Long Islander, Elke was a fan of horror movies at a young age. She wrote her first script at age 11. Went to the NY Film Academy. Made several short films and optioned some scripts while in California learning about the biz.
But like many creatives, life got in the way and her dreams took a back seat. After a terrible hand injury left her disabled, something clicked. She realized she was given a gift of time and used it to write, produce and direct her first feature film, *69. A supernatural thriller with horrific elements.
This film took her a long time to complete. And Elke explains the process of concept to screen , her writing and directing process and the many challenges she faced making the film.
Since completing *69, Elke has kept busy making short films again and developing another film - this time, a romantic comedy - called Ladies and Gentlemen, which explores the double standards between men and women.
So grateful to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. This episode is full of filmmaking and life lessons. I know you will enjoy this one. So, take a listen to my chat with Elke Blasi.]]>4977*69,alexrudy,art,artist,elkeblasi,film,filmmaking,laurieannadavis,longisland,producing,shortfilms,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersTime to start off November. There is still some Halloween influence here. Very hard for me to let go of that holiday. Today’s guest has a bit of a foot still in the genre. She is Producer/Writer/Director, Elke Blasi. Another Long Islander, Elke was a fan of horror movies at a young age. She wrote her first script at age 11. Went to the NY Film Academy. Made several short films and optioned some scripts while in California learning about the biz. But like many creatives, life got in the way and her dreams took a back seat. After a terrible hand injury left her disabled, something clicked. She realized she was given a gift of time and used it to write, produce and direct her first feature film, *69. A supernatural thriller with horrific elements. This film took her a long time to complete. And Elke explains the process of concept to screen , her writing and directing process and the many challenges she faced making the film. Since completing *69, Elke has kept busy making short films again and developing another film - this time, a romantic comedy - called Ladies and Gentlemen, which explores the double standards between men and women. So grateful to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. This episode is full of filmmaking and life lessons. I know you will enjoy this one. So, take a listen to my chat with Elke Blasi.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/liz-acar_1She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Multi-Certified International Coach, Speaker, and the Photographer and Author for the International Bestseller, “In Joy; A Guide to Designing a Joy-Filled Life” and for the Bestseller, "You Are Loved; An Inspired, Meditative Visual Journey".
In 2017, Liz was recovering from a significant illness when she was encouraged to move to Key West, Florida by her partner for a healing sabbatical. Seven months after moving to Key West, her partner unexpectedly passed away from cancer.
Thankfully, Liz's healing process was positively impacted by living in the Keys, and by taking and sharing pictures and positive thoughts on social media.
Liz has almost fully recovered now. Over the past couple of years, she has provided over 400 speaking engagements and trainings on how to live a happier, healthier, and more joy-filled life. Additionally, her inspirational pictures, videos, and stories have reached over a quarter of a million people and have been seen in the Miami ABC and Fox News affiliate stations, The Miami Herald, Newsweek, FL Key News, and many other outlets.
Liz combines her passion for photography, coaching, speaking and writing to help inspire, awaken, motivate, and support others on their journey.
And I am telling you, this talk we had, even helped me. Not typically focused on the guest’s art, but on being aware, taking action and positively changing one’s self from the inside which in turn, helps the creative process.
There’s so much more, so relax, breathe and enjoy my chat with Liz Acar.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19958406Mon, 11 Nov 2019 12:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #37. Today, we have Liz Acar. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Multi-Certified International Coach, Speaker, and the Photographer and Author for the International Bestseller, “In Joy; A Guide to Designing a Joy-Filled...She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Multi-Certified International Coach, Speaker, and the Photographer and Author for the International Bestseller, “In Joy; A Guide to Designing a Joy-Filled Life” and for the Bestseller, "You Are Loved; An Inspired, Meditative Visual Journey".
In 2017, Liz was recovering from a significant illness when she was encouraged to move to Key West, Florida by her partner for a healing sabbatical. Seven months after moving to Key West, her partner unexpectedly passed away from cancer.
Thankfully, Liz's healing process was positively impacted by living in the Keys, and by taking and sharing pictures and positive thoughts on social media.
Liz has almost fully recovered now. Over the past couple of years, she has provided over 400 speaking engagements and trainings on how to live a happier, healthier, and more joy-filled life. Additionally, her inspirational pictures, videos, and stories have reached over a quarter of a million people and have been seen in the Miami ABC and Fox News affiliate stations, The Miami Herald, Newsweek, FL Key News, and many other outlets.
Liz combines her passion for photography, coaching, speaking and writing to help inspire, awaken, motivate, and support others on their journey.
And I am telling you, this talk we had, even helped me. Not typically focused on the guest’s art, but on being aware, taking action and positively changing one’s self from the inside which in turn, helps the creative process.
There’s so much more, so relax, breathe and enjoy my chat with Liz Acar.]]>4619alexrudy,art,artist,author,books,coach,counselor,encouragement,florida,healing,inspiration,keywest,lizacar,meditation,photographer,photography,photos,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #37. Today, we have Liz Acar. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Multi-Certified International Coach, Speaker, and the Photographer and Author for the International Bestseller, “In Joy; A Guide to Designing a Joy-Filled Life” and for the Bestseller, "You Are Loved; An Inspired, Meditative Visual Journey". In 2017, Liz was recovering from a significant illness when she was encouraged to move to Key West, Florida by her partner for a healing sabbatical. Seven months after moving to Key West, her partner unexpectedly passed away from cancer. Thankfully, Liz's healing process was positively impacted by living in the Keys, and by taking and sharing pictures and positive thoughts on social media. Liz has almost fully recovered now. Over the past couple of years, she has provided over 400 speaking engagements and trainings on how to live a happier, healthier, and more joy-filled life. Additionally, her inspirational pictures, videos, and stories have reached over a quarter of a million people and have been seen in the Miami ABC and Fox News affiliate stations, The Miami Herald, Newsweek, FL Key News, and many other outlets. Liz combines her passion for photography, coaching, speaking and writing to help inspire, awaken, motivate, and support others on their journey. And I am telling you, this talk we had, even helped me. Not typically focused on the guest’s art, but on being aware, taking action and positively changing one’s self from the inside which in turn, helps the creative process. There’s so much more, so relax, breathe and enjoy my chat with Liz Acar.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/drema-drudgeShe has been writing since the age of nine, some o which were poems and melodramatic stories.
She went to Spalding University and got her MFA in Creative Writing.
Her fiction has been published in The Louisville Review, Mused, ATG, Penumbra, Woolf Zine, The Same, as well as in other publications. She is also a regular contributor to the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Her stories for Chicken Soup have been featured twice on their podcast, and a book her story appeared in was also highlighted on Entertainment Tonight.
Her forthcoming novel, Victorine is about a Parisian painter from the time of the Impressionists. It was written in six different countries, if you can believe that. And it’s available for pre-order, due to come out March 2020.
You will learn so much about her approach to writing and her process. Common misconceptions people have about writing and great advice for future writers.
Thankful you are here and ready to enjoy my chat with Drema Drudge.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20228176Mon, 25 Nov 2019 12:00:09 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode #39 on the week of Thanksgiving. Very thankful for today’s guest, Writer/Author - Drema Drudge. She has been writing since the age of nine, some o which were poems and melodramatic stories. She went to Spalding University and got...She has been writing since the age of nine, some o which were poems and melodramatic stories.
She went to Spalding University and got her MFA in Creative Writing.
Her fiction has been published in The Louisville Review, Mused, ATG, Penumbra, Woolf Zine, The Same, as well as in other publications. She is also a regular contributor to the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Her stories for Chicken Soup have been featured twice on their podcast, and a book her story appeared in was also highlighted on Entertainment Tonight.
Her forthcoming novel, Victorine is about a Parisian painter from the time of the Impressionists. It was written in six different countries, if you can believe that. And it’s available for pre-order, due to come out March 2020.
You will learn so much about her approach to writing and her process. Common misconceptions people have about writing and great advice for future writers.
Thankful you are here and ready to enjoy my chat with Drema Drudge.]]>3133art,artist,artists,author,book,books,creative,creativity,dremadrudge,novel,novels,theartistmatters,thearts,victorine,writer,writers,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode #39 on the week of Thanksgiving. Very thankful for today’s guest, Writer/Author - Drema Drudge. She has been writing since the age of nine, some o which were poems and melodramatic stories. She went to Spalding University and got her MFA in Creative Writing. Her fiction has been published in The Louisville Review, Mused, ATG, Penumbra, Woolf Zine, The Same, as well as in other publications. She is also a regular contributor to the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Her stories for Chicken Soup have been featured twice on their podcast, and a book her story appeared in was also highlighted on Entertainment Tonight. Her forthcoming novel, Victorine is about a Parisian painter from the time of the Impressionists. It was written in six different countries, if you can believe that. And it’s available for pre-order, due to come out March 2020. You will learn so much about her approach to writing and her process. Common misconceptions people have about writing and great advice for future writers. Thankful you are here and ready to enjoy my chat with Drema Drudge.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/laurie-durrett-p1Talk about a resume. Laurie’s career in the arts spans over 3 decades. She’s been an actor, director, producer, reporter, writer, filmmaker, teacher - just to name a few.
Her journey began in Texas. As a little girl, she’d watch a movie and if the ending didn’t feel right to her, she’d act out the movie with a brand new ending.
As she got older, she was drawn to acting on the stage. And to her, that will always be her favorite.
She even made the pilgrimage to L.A. and had some acting gigs, but then moved back to Texas.
Thankfully, she didn’t limit herself. While acting jobs were few and far between, she learned about the production side of show business. She enjoyed it and became good at it. And she stresses that actors should learn about the production side. It offers a well-rounded view of the biz and maybe a creative outlet they never knew about.
As you can imagine, narrowing down 30 years of work could be daunting. Laurie brought to my attention a few highlights and that helped to bring you the discussion you are about to hear.
But I had to break it up into a two-parter. So, enjoy part one of my interview with Laurie Durrett.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20375955Mon, 02 Dec 2019 12:00:21 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to December and show #40. Today we have Laurie Durrett. Talk about a resume. Laurie’s career in the arts spans over 3 decades. She’s been an actor, director, producer, reporter, writer, filmmaker, teacher - just to name a few. Her journey...Talk about a resume. Laurie’s career in the arts spans over 3 decades. She’s been an actor, director, producer, reporter, writer, filmmaker, teacher - just to name a few.
Her journey began in Texas. As a little girl, she’d watch a movie and if the ending didn’t feel right to her, she’d act out the movie with a brand new ending.
As she got older, she was drawn to acting on the stage. And to her, that will always be her favorite.
She even made the pilgrimage to L.A. and had some acting gigs, but then moved back to Texas.
Thankfully, she didn’t limit herself. While acting jobs were few and far between, she learned about the production side of show business. She enjoyed it and became good at it. And she stresses that actors should learn about the production side. It offers a well-rounded view of the biz and maybe a creative outlet they never knew about.
As you can imagine, narrowing down 30 years of work could be daunting. Laurie brought to my attention a few highlights and that helped to bring you the discussion you are about to hear.
But I had to break it up into a two-parter. So, enjoy part one of my interview with Laurie Durrett.]]>3636acting,actor,actress,art,artist,filmmaker,filmmaking,hyphenate,lauriedurrett,producer,producing,reporter,reporting,showbusiness,teacher,teaching,theartistmatters,theartistreallymatters,theatre,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to December and show #40. Today we have Laurie Durrett. Talk about a resume. Laurie’s career in the arts spans over 3 decades. She’s been an actor, director, producer, reporter, writer, filmmaker, teacher - just to name a few. Her journey began in Texas. As a little girl, she’d watch a movie and if the ending didn’t feel right to her, she’d act out the movie with a brand new ending. As she got older, she was drawn to acting on the stage. And to her, that will always be her favorite. She even made the pilgrimage to L.A. and had some acting gigs, but then moved back to Texas. Thankfully, she didn’t limit herself. While acting jobs were few and far between, she learned about the production side of show business. She enjoyed it and became good at it. And she stresses that actors should learn about the production side. It offers a well-rounded view of the biz and maybe a creative outlet they never knew about. As you can imagine, narrowing down 30 years of work could be daunting. Laurie brought to my attention a few highlights and that helped to bring you the discussion you are about to hear. But I had to break it up into a two-parter. So, enjoy part one of my interview with Laurie Durrett.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/laurie-durrett-p2We get into more of her highlights, including traveling to Ireland and Belfast, doing theatre with prisoners, including the show, “My Home”.
She talks about the project “Be Not Afraid”. This deals with witch doctors sacrificing children for profit in Africa and one person’s crusade to save and rehabilitate the surviving children.
Laurie also talks about the short film, “Caroline”, which she made with her daughter.
On top of all this, she is also gearing up to create an acting workshop about the craft and the business.
Enjoy the final part of my chat with Laurie Durrett.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20515804Mon, 09 Dec 2019 12:00:22 +0000TheArtistMattersThe wait is over. Welcome to the 2nd part of my conversation with Laurie Durrett. We get into more of her highlights, including traveling to Ireland and Belfast, doing theatre with prisoners, including the show, “My Home”. She talks about the project...We get into more of her highlights, including traveling to Ireland and Belfast, doing theatre with prisoners, including the show, “My Home”.
She talks about the project “Be Not Afraid”. This deals with witch doctors sacrificing children for profit in Africa and one person’s crusade to save and rehabilitate the surviving children.
Laurie also talks about the short film, “Caroline”, which she made with her daughter.
On top of all this, she is also gearing up to create an acting workshop about the craft and the business.
Enjoy the final part of my chat with Laurie Durrett.]]>3474acting,actor,alexrudy,art,artist,artistic,artmatters,arts,filmmaking,hyphenate,lauriedurrett,producer,shows,talent,teaching,texas,theartistmatters,theatre,workshopscleanfullTheArtistMattersThe wait is over. Welcome to the 2nd part of my conversation with Laurie Durrett. We get into more of her highlights, including traveling to Ireland and Belfast, doing theatre with prisoners, including the show, “My Home”. She talks about the project “Be Not Afraid”. This deals with witch doctors sacrificing children for profit in Africa and one person’s crusade to save and rehabilitate the surviving children. Laurie also talks about the short film, “Caroline”, which she made with her daughter. On top of all this, she is also gearing up to create an acting workshop about the craft and the business. Enjoy the final part of my chat with Laurie Durrett.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/harrison-aka-kimmi-mooreWell, today you get the gift to learn about what it takes to be a drag queen with our guest, Harrison Schenkel (aka Kimmi Moore).
He is the first guest to be related to a previous guest (Mackenzie Lee Hart’s stepbrother).
I met Harrison, when he was in his teens, at the church we went to in New York where his father was a pastor. And one year, Harrison put on the “High School Musical” concert at the church. It was a lively show and I knew this kid had talent. I expected to see him on Broadway someday.
Then, I found out he is indeed living in New York City and performing, but as a drag queen. That was a surprise I didn’t see coming. But, I knew I had to connect with him and learn more about his craft.
He shares moving into the city and discovering the world of drag. How he came up with his drag name, Kimmi Moore. The prep work it takes to get ready for a show. What’s it like to perform in a drag show and lots more.
He has even released 2 singles and music videos as Kimmi - “My Head” and “One Night”.
So, be of good cheer, work it and enjoy my chat with Harrison Schenkel.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20644817Mon, 16 Dec 2019 12:00:11 +0000TheArtistMattersSeasons greetings, one and all. Today we have a real holiday treat. Cause when you think of the holiday season, you think of drag queens. Right? Well, today you get the gift to learn about what it takes to be a drag queen with our guest, Harrison...Well, today you get the gift to learn about what it takes to be a drag queen with our guest, Harrison Schenkel (aka Kimmi Moore).
He is the first guest to be related to a previous guest (Mackenzie Lee Hart’s stepbrother).
I met Harrison, when he was in his teens, at the church we went to in New York where his father was a pastor. And one year, Harrison put on the “High School Musical” concert at the church. It was a lively show and I knew this kid had talent. I expected to see him on Broadway someday.
Then, I found out he is indeed living in New York City and performing, but as a drag queen. That was a surprise I didn’t see coming. But, I knew I had to connect with him and learn more about his craft.
He shares moving into the city and discovering the world of drag. How he came up with his drag name, Kimmi Moore. The prep work it takes to get ready for a show. What’s it like to perform in a drag show and lots more.
He has even released 2 singles and music videos as Kimmi - “My Head” and “One Night”.
So, be of good cheer, work it and enjoy my chat with Harrison Schenkel.]]>3123art,artist,arts,creativity,dance,dancing,drag,dragqueen,harrisonschenkel,kimmimoore,musicvideo,newyorkcity,performance,popmusic,show,singing,stage,theartistmatters,theatre,thecitycleanfullTheArtistMattersSeasons greetings, one and all. Today we have a real holiday treat. Cause when you think of the holiday season, you think of drag queens. Right? Well, today you get the gift to learn about what it takes to be a drag queen with our guest, Harrison Schenkel (aka Kimmi Moore). He is the first guest to be related to a previous guest (Mackenzie Lee Hart’s stepbrother). I met Harrison, when he was in his teens, at the church we went to in New York where his father was a pastor. And one year, Harrison put on the “High School Musical” concert at the church. It was a lively show and I knew this kid had talent. I expected to see him on Broadway someday. Then, I found out he is indeed living in New York City and performing, but as a drag queen. That was a surprise I didn’t see coming. But, I knew I had to connect with him and learn more about his craft. He shares moving into the city and discovering the world of drag. How he came up with his drag name, Kimmi Moore. The prep work it takes to get ready for a show. What’s it like to perform in a drag show and lots more. He has even released 2 singles and music videos as Kimmi - “My Head” and “One Night”. So, be of good cheer, work it and enjoy my chat with Harrison Schenkel.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/rina-alvarezShe hails from Tampa, FL where she runs Alvarez Photography. At an early age, however, she suppressed her interest in photography because she wanted to fit in with her classmates. Thankfully, as she got older and wiser, she returned to her passion for photos and doors started opening.
Her photogenic resume includes: weddings, real estate, pregnancy announcements and even boudoir. She has also worked for Living Social and Groupon.
Her sons keep her grounded and were major inspiration for her getting back into photography. She’s wanting to show them that they can do anything with determination, passion and hard work.
And that’s just what you’ll get with this episode, plus a lot more. Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza and Merry Christmas this week and enjoy this gift - my chat with Rina.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20935668Mon, 23 Dec 2019 12:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #43. Today’s guest, I met at my day job as a civil clerk. She was filing papers and we got into talking about art and podcasts and next thing I know, she’s wanting to be a guest on the show. And here we are (That’s why it’s...She hails from Tampa, FL where she runs Alvarez Photography. At an early age, however, she suppressed her interest in photography because she wanted to fit in with her classmates. Thankfully, as she got older and wiser, she returned to her passion for photos and doors started opening.
Her photogenic resume includes: weddings, real estate, pregnancy announcements and even boudoir. She has also worked for Living Social and Groupon.
Her sons keep her grounded and were major inspiration for her getting back into photography. She’s wanting to show them that they can do anything with determination, passion and hard work.
And that’s just what you’ll get with this episode, plus a lot more. Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza and Merry Christmas this week and enjoy this gift - my chat with Rina.]]>4505alvarezphotography,art,artist,artists,holidays,model,passion,photographer,photography,photos,photoshoot,rinaalvarez,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #43. Today’s guest, I met at my day job as a civil clerk. She was filing papers and we got into talking about art and podcasts and next thing I know, she’s wanting to be a guest on the show. And here we are (That’s why it’s important to carry your business cards with you. Never know who you’ll meet). She is Rina Alvarez. She hails from Tampa, FL where she runs Alvarez Photography. At an early age, however, she suppressed her interest in photography because she wanted to fit in with her classmates. Thankfully, as she got older and wiser, she returned to her passion for photos and doors started opening. Her photogenic resume includes: weddings, real estate, pregnancy announcements and even boudoir. She has also worked for Living Social and Groupon. Her sons keep her grounded and were major inspiration for her getting back into photography. She’s wanting to show them that they can do anything with determination, passion and hard work. And that’s just what you’ll get with this episode, plus a lot more. Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza and Merry Christmas this week and enjoy this gift - my chat with Rina.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/wrapping-up-2019https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21174161Mon, 30 Dec 2019 12:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersThis is it! We've reached the end of 2019. Time to look back on all the highlights of my year here on the Artist Matters and beyond.33962019,2020,alexrudy,art,artist,buschgardens,djal-x,dontkeepyourdayjob,endoftheyear,guests,howloscream,indiefilmhustle,maximumtunage,newyears,podcast,recap,reflecting,schoolofgreatness,theartistmatters,universalcleanfullTheArtistMattersThis is it! We've reached the end of 2019. Time to look back on all the highlights of my year here on the Artist Matters and beyond.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/staci-sabarskyWe have yet another guest I met at the Tampa Bay Theatre networking event.
Her name is Staci Sabarsky.
Once upon a time, there was a little girl who used to pretend.  In her basement, she and her friends would act out their favorite television shows and star in their favorite musicals.  As she grew up, she entered the business world where she acted as a professional corporate trainer and consultant.  After seventeen years, she returned to college at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill to pursue her passion–theatre.  Since earning her degree in Dramatic Arts in 2006, she has been teaching, directing, and coaching students of all ages. She taught Performing Arts for five years at Duke School (a private independent school in Durham, North Carolina) and was on the faculty of Raleigh Little Theater’s award winning Education Program for eight years where she taught ages 5-85!  Now, Staci shares her love of theatre and pretending with her private students and Tampa Bay area audiences.
She was most recently seen on-stage in PROOF (Stageworks Theatre) as Claire, THE GREAT GATSBY (Stageworks) as Mrs. McGee/Mrs. Michaelis, and as Mrs. Blair in INHERIT THE WIND (Stageworks/Tampa Rep).   Favorite roles include:  Stella in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (The Gilbert Theatre), Maureen in RENT (The Gilbert Theatre), Debra in THE SMELL OF THE KILL (Temple Theatre), Annabella/Pamela/Margaret in THE 39 STEPS (Raleigh Little Theater), Belinda/Flavia in NOISES OFF (Theatre in the Park), Nancy in FROZEN (Raleigh Ensemble Players), Camillo in THE WINTER’S TALE (Peace College Theatre), and Diana in LEND ME A TENOR (Actor’s Comedy Lab).
Since relocating back to Florida, she served as the Assistant Director for BROADWAY BOUND at Stageworks; directed a staged reading of JOHNNY 10 BEERS’ DAUGHTERS with Tampa Rep/Creative Loafing, and directed PROOF and SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD at Richey Suncoast Theatre.  Favorite directing credits include:  PROOF (Innovocative Theatre) DARK VANILLA JUNGLE (Camden Fringe Festival and Tampa International Fringe Festival), THE ODD COUPLE (Cary Players), THE RAINMAKER (Cary Players), CRIMINAL HEARTS (Lab Theatre), and GUYS & DOLLS JR. (Duke School).
As an educator and director, Staci believes that the skills learned through studying theatre and becoming part of an ensemble teach children and adults to become better people:  ones who can communicate confidently, collaborate well with others, and be spontaneous and creative in all aspects of their lives.
Enjoy my first chat of 2020 with Staci Sabarsky.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21374597Mon, 06 Jan 2020 12:00:06 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to 2020 and a great first guest for the new year. We have yet another guest I met at the Tampa Bay Theatre networking event. Her name is Staci Sabarsky. Once upon a time, there was a little girl who used to pretend.  In her basement, she and...We have yet another guest I met at the Tampa Bay Theatre networking event.
Her name is Staci Sabarsky.
Once upon a time, there was a little girl who used to pretend.  In her basement, she and her friends would act out their favorite television shows and star in their favorite musicals.  As she grew up, she entered the business world where she acted as a professional corporate trainer and consultant.  After seventeen years, she returned to college at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill to pursue her passion–theatre.  Since earning her degree in Dramatic Arts in 2006, she has been teaching, directing, and coaching students of all ages. She taught Performing Arts for five years at Duke School (a private independent school in Durham, North Carolina) and was on the faculty of Raleigh Little Theater’s award winning Education Program for eight years where she taught ages 5-85!  Now, Staci shares her love of theatre and pretending with her private students and Tampa Bay area audiences.
She was most recently seen on-stage in PROOF (Stageworks Theatre) as Claire, THE GREAT GATSBY (Stageworks) as Mrs. McGee/Mrs. Michaelis, and as Mrs. Blair in INHERIT THE WIND (Stageworks/Tampa Rep).   Favorite roles include:  Stella in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (The Gilbert Theatre), Maureen in RENT (The Gilbert Theatre), Debra in THE SMELL OF THE KILL (Temple Theatre), Annabella/Pamela/Margaret in THE 39 STEPS (Raleigh Little Theater), Belinda/Flavia in NOISES OFF (Theatre in the Park), Nancy in FROZEN (Raleigh Ensemble Players), Camillo in THE WINTER’S TALE (Peace College Theatre), and Diana in LEND ME A TENOR (Actor’s Comedy Lab).
Since relocating back to Florida, she served as the Assistant Director for BROADWAY BOUND at Stageworks; directed a staged reading of JOHNNY 10 BEERS’ DAUGHTERS with Tampa Rep/Creative Loafing, and directed PROOF and SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD at Richey Suncoast Theatre.  Favorite directing credits include:  PROOF (Innovocative Theatre) DARK VANILLA JUNGLE (Camden Fringe Festival and Tampa International Fringe Festival), THE ODD COUPLE (Cary Players), THE RAINMAKER (Cary Players), CRIMINAL HEARTS (Lab Theatre), and GUYS & DOLLS JR. (Duke School).
As an educator and director, Staci believes that the skills learned through studying theatre and becoming part of an ensemble teach children and adults to become better people:  ones who can communicate confidently, collaborate well with others, and be spontaneous and creative in all aspects of their lives.
Enjoy my first chat of 2020 with Staci Sabarsky.]]>3811acting,actor,alexrudy,art,artist,arts,awareness,director,drama,florida,innovocativetheatre,performing,plays,stacisabarsky,stage,stageworks,tampa,teacher,theartistmatters,theatrecleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to 2020 and a great first guest for the new year. We have yet another guest I met at the Tampa Bay Theatre networking event. Her name is Staci Sabarsky. Once upon a time, there was a little girl who used to pretend.  In her basement, she and her friends would act out their favorite television shows and star in their favorite musicals.  As she grew up, she entered the business world where she acted as a professional corporate trainer and consultant.  After seventeen years, she returned to college at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill to pursue her passion–theatre.  Since earning her degree in Dramatic Arts in 2006, she has been teaching, directing, and coaching students of all ages. She taught Performing Arts for five years at Duke School (a private independent school in Durham, North Carolina) and was on the faculty of Raleigh Little Theater’s award winning Education Program for eight years where she taught ages 5-85!  Now, Staci shares her love of theatre and pretending with her private students and Tampa Bay area audiences. She was most recently seen on-stage in PROOF (Stageworks Theatre) as Claire, THE GREAT GATSBY (Stageworks) as Mrs. McGee/Mrs. Michaelis, and as Mrs. Blair in INHERIT THE WIND (Stageworks/Tampa Rep).   Favorite roles include:  Stella in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (The Gilbert Theatre), Maureen in RENT (The Gilbert Theatre), Debra in THE SMELL OF THE KILL (Temple Theatre), Annabella/Pamela/Margaret in THE 39 STEPS (Raleigh Little Theater), Belinda/Flavia in NOISES OFF (Theatre in the Park), Nancy in FROZEN (Raleigh Ensemble Players), Camillo in THE WINTER’S TALE (Peace College Theatre), and Diana in LEND ME A TENOR (Actor’s Comedy Lab). Since relocating back to Florida, she served as the Assistant Director for BROADWAY BOUND at Stageworks; directed a staged reading of JOHNNY 10 BEERS’ DAUGHTERS with Tampa Rep/Creative Loafing, and directed PROOF and SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD at Richey Suncoast Theatre.  Favorite directing credits include:  PROOF (Innovocative Theatre) DARK VANILLA JUNGLE (Camden Fringe Festival and Tampa International Fringe Festival), THE ODD COUPLE (Cary Players), THE RAINMAKER (Cary Players), CRIMINAL HEARTS (Lab Theatre), and GUYS & DOLLS JR. (Duke School). As an educator and director, Staci believes that the skills learned through studying theatre and becoming part of an ensemble teach children and adults to become better people:  ones who can communicate confidently, collaborate well with others, and be spontaneous and creative in all aspects of their lives. Enjoy my first chat of 2020 with Staci Sabarsky.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/glen-josselsohnHe is a leading Contemporary Artist whose unique style is a buzz with energy and movement which opens up the imagination, engages the senses and ignites a sense of curiosity within the viewer. 
Glen’s Artwork has been recognized locally and internationally and he exhibits his artwork in Galleries all over the World.
Last year, Johannesburg boutique hotel, Marion on Nicol, commissioned Glen to do over 30 paintings for the establishment, creating a contemporary feel throughout the hotel.
He also likes to go beyond the canvas and has painted a mini Cooper car and Vespa scooter. Quite amazing work.
Glen also believes in giving back. He is involved in Operation Smile which helps provide surgery children with cleft palates. Glen also love animals and donates art to assist several animal charities.
He was on limited time, so this is a shorter interview, but still full of great artistic insights and inspiration.
Enjoy my chat with Glen!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21577419Mon, 13 Jan 2020 12:00:24 +0000TheArtistMattersToday we have my second international guest. Hailing from South Africa, it’s painter ,Glen Josselsohn. He is a leading Contemporary Artist whose unique style is a buzz with energy and movement which opens up the imagination, engages the senses and...He is a leading Contemporary Artist whose unique style is a buzz with energy and movement which opens up the imagination, engages the senses and ignites a sense of curiosity within the viewer. 
Glen’s Artwork has been recognized locally and internationally and he exhibits his artwork in Galleries all over the World.
Last year, Johannesburg boutique hotel, Marion on Nicol, commissioned Glen to do over 30 paintings for the establishment, creating a contemporary feel throughout the hotel.
He also likes to go beyond the canvas and has painted a mini Cooper car and Vespa scooter. Quite amazing work.
Glen also believes in giving back. He is involved in Operation Smile which helps provide surgery children with cleft palates. Glen also love animals and donates art to assist several animal charities.
He was on limited time, so this is a shorter interview, but still full of great artistic insights and inspiration.
Enjoy my chat with Glen!]]>2507abstract,alexrudy,animals,art,artist,arts,charity,colors,glenjosselsohn,operationsmile,paint,painter,painting,paintings,southafrica,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersToday we have my second international guest. Hailing from South Africa, it’s painter ,Glen Josselsohn. He is a leading Contemporary Artist whose unique style is a buzz with energy and movement which opens up the imagination, engages the senses and ignites a sense of curiosity within the viewer.  Glen’s Artwork has been recognized locally and internationally and he exhibits his artwork in Galleries all over the World. Last year, Johannesburg boutique hotel, Marion on Nicol, commissioned Glen to do over 30 paintings for the establishment, creating a contemporary feel throughout the hotel. He also likes to go beyond the canvas and has painted a mini Cooper car and Vespa scooter. Quite amazing work. Glen also believes in giving back. He is involved in Operation Smile which helps provide surgery children with cleft palates. Glen also love animals and donates art to assist several animal charities. He was on limited time, so this is a shorter interview, but still full of great artistic insights and inspiration. Enjoy my chat with Glen!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/lisa-maxxIn August 2016 Lisa (with her then duo Lisa Maxx and the Still Creek Crows) was flown to Iceland for her first international music tour, where she performed much of the music that pertains directly to her Icelandic heritage in the homeland of her paternal forebears. Lisa is currently working on creating a second, multi-discipline, one-woman show - with photographs, story & song - about Iceland, her Icelandic heritage and a bit of little-known Canadian-Icelandic history thrown in for good measure.
Talk about an overcomer. You will be inspired. So, take listen to my chat with Lisa.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21767451Mon, 20 Jan 2020 12:00:13 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #47. Today’s show features an incredibly determined and inspiring artist. I welcome Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx. She is a singer/songwriter, storyteller, writer, educator, public speaker, mama and amma (Icelandic for grandmother) and...In August 2016 Lisa (with her then duo Lisa Maxx and the Still Creek Crows) was flown to Iceland for her first international music tour, where she performed much of the music that pertains directly to her Icelandic heritage in the homeland of her paternal forebears. Lisa is currently working on creating a second, multi-discipline, one-woman show - with photographs, story & song - about Iceland, her Icelandic heritage and a bit of little-known Canadian-Icelandic history thrown in for good measure.
Talk about an overcomer. You will be inspired. So, take listen to my chat with Lisa.]]>3355art,artist,arts,canada,iceland,inspirational,lisamaxx,lisamaxxmusic,music,musician,overcomer,rheumatoid,sigurgeirson,singer,singingamma,stillholdtrue,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #47. Today’s show features an incredibly determined and inspiring artist. I welcome Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx. She is a singer/songwriter, storyteller, writer, educator, public speaker, mama and amma (Icelandic for grandmother) and an all around lover of life. 
Lisa was born to a Scottish mother and a father of Icelandic decent in Steveston BC, on the lush and lovely Canadian south-west coast. Lisa grew up in a musical family and within a highly expressive, creative community.  Lisa penned her first song at age 9 and taught herself to play guitar as a young teenager.
Living then on Salt Spring Island, with all the quirks and wonders of life in a small, rural community, experiencing many changes  and "growth opportunities" along the way, combined with a deep, intrinsic love and affinity for her cultural heritage, Lisa was instilled with an unstoppable desire to share the stories of life, as seen through her own personal lens, through words and song. Lisa's debut album Still Hold True features 11 original songs and has received high praise from many inspired listeners.                       To add to the challenges of Lisa's early years, at age 33 she was diagnosed with severe and life-altering Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, which left her bed-ridden for many years. The unstoppable tenacity of her young life continued. Lisa has used this immensely challenging, and at times almost completely debilitating disease, as a platform to inspire, encourage and bring awareness, light and laughter to others.
In the early years of learning to live within the confines of dis-Ability, Lisa began writing a book entitled, letters to sally, (out soon - with a companion CD in the works!) Lisa is a life-loving, positive demonstration of how one cannot only grow but can also shine in the face of adversity. This project has now become the platform for a one-woman show of the same name. In August 2016 Lisa (with her then duo Lisa Maxx and the Still Creek Crows) was flown to Iceland for her first international music tour, where she performed much of the music that pertains directly to her Icelandic heritage in the homeland of her paternal forebears. Lisa is currently working on creating a second, multi-discipline, one-woman show - with photographs, story & song - about Iceland, her Icelandic heritage and a bit of little-known Canadian-Icelandic history thrown in for good measure. Talk about an overcomer. You will be inspired. So, take listen to my chat with Lisa.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/federicoHe has dabbled in a lot of creative niches. Finding passion in music, with influences like the Ramones, the Beatles and Pink Floyd, Federico took up bass and guitar and piano. His mother was a flamenco dancer , so he learned flamenco music.
He decided to travel in his 20's and wound up first in the U.K. That's where the modeling and acting began. He began dating a girl and went back with her to Tokyo, Japan. He got immersed in the culture and creative juices were flowing. More modeling, acting and then documentary filmmaking.
He founded "Fukahire Films" with his brother, Martin. And they continue to make their films back in Buenos Aires.
He is full of life and passion, so you're going to get a lot. Enjoy my chat with Federico.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22089359Mon, 27 Jan 2020 12:00:20 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #48 with my 3rd international guest, hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Federico Aletta. He has dabbled in a lot of creative niches. Finding passion in music, with influences like the Ramones, the Beatles and Pink Floyd,...He has dabbled in a lot of creative niches. Finding passion in music, with influences like the Ramones, the Beatles and Pink Floyd, Federico took up bass and guitar and piano. His mother was a flamenco dancer , so he learned flamenco music.
He decided to travel in his 20's and wound up first in the U.K. That's where the modeling and acting began. He began dating a girl and went back with her to Tokyo, Japan. He got immersed in the culture and creative juices were flowing. More modeling, acting and then documentary filmmaking.
He founded "Fukahire Films" with his brother, Martin. And they continue to make their films back in Buenos Aires.
He is full of life and passion, so you're going to get a lot. Enjoy my chat with Federico.]]>3637actor,alexrudy,argentina,art,artist,babel,buenosaires,culture,documentaries,federicoaletta,filmmaker,flamenco,fukahirefilms,guitar,japan,japanese,model,musician,theartistmatters,theartscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #48 with my 3rd international guest, hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Federico Aletta. He has dabbled in a lot of creative niches. Finding passion in music, with influences like the Ramones, the Beatles and Pink Floyd, Federico took up bass and guitar and piano. His mother was a flamenco dancer , so he learned flamenco music. He decided to travel in his 20's and wound up first in the U.K. That's where the modeling and acting began. He began dating a girl and went back with her to Tokyo, Japan. He got immersed in the culture and creative juices were flowing. More modeling, acting and then documentary filmmaking. He founded "Fukahire Films" with his brother, Martin. And they continue to make their films back in Buenos Aires. He is full of life and passion, so you're going to get a lot. Enjoy my chat with Federico.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/mig-ayesaToday’s guest can answer that. He is actor, performer, singer, musician, rockstar - MiG Ayesa.
Many of you may remember Mig when he competed on the TV show, “Rockstar INXS”, vying for a chance to become the new lead singer of the famous band. He may have come in third, but he was still able to secure a record deal with Universal Classics.
Back in his younger years, he wanted to carve his on path away from his family’s medical professions. When he discovered music, as a way to control his stutter, he knew he was on to something.
He did musical theatre in his teen years and really wanted to be a rockstar, even formed a band called Randy Badass & The Slickmaster Five. But family felt he still had to go to college and get a ‘real’ job.
But destiny was calling and he got a role in a TV pilot called “Mission: Top Secret” and then was offered to play Ritchie Valens in “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story”.
Other musicals started coming, including: “Burn The Floor”, “Rent”, “We Will Rock You”, “Rock of Ages” and “All Out of Love” to name a few.
And MiG has a busy schedule. Travels all over the world to sing and perform, whether it’s on stage, TV or even cruise ships.
Unfortunately, there have been times that he lost his voice, but he pushed through and got back on track.
This is one of my favorite interviews. He had so much to offer and I was inspired. Special thanks to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us.
You are going to love this episode. So, without further ado, enjoy my chat with MiG Ayesa.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22220511Mon, 03 Feb 2020 12:00:21 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #49. When you’re born into a family of doctors and you don’t want to be a doctor, what do you do? Today’s guest can answer that. He is actor, performer, singer, musician, rockstar - MiG Ayesa. Many of you may remember Mig when he...Today’s guest can answer that. He is actor, performer, singer, musician, rockstar - MiG Ayesa.
Many of you may remember Mig when he competed on the TV show, “Rockstar INXS”, vying for a chance to become the new lead singer of the famous band. He may have come in third, but he was still able to secure a record deal with Universal Classics.
Back in his younger years, he wanted to carve his on path away from his family’s medical professions. When he discovered music, as a way to control his stutter, he knew he was on to something.
He did musical theatre in his teen years and really wanted to be a rockstar, even formed a band called Randy Badass & The Slickmaster Five. But family felt he still had to go to college and get a ‘real’ job.
But destiny was calling and he got a role in a TV pilot called “Mission: Top Secret” and then was offered to play Ritchie Valens in “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story”.
Other musicals started coming, including: “Burn The Floor”, “Rent”, “We Will Rock You”, “Rock of Ages” and “All Out of Love” to name a few.
And MiG has a busy schedule. Travels all over the world to sing and perform, whether it’s on stage, TV or even cruise ships.
Unfortunately, there have been times that he lost his voice, but he pushed through and got back on track.
This is one of my favorite interviews. He had so much to offer and I was inspired. Special thanks to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us.
You are going to love this episode. So, without further ado, enjoy my chat with MiG Ayesa.]]>5251actor,alexrudy,art,artist,arts,laurieanndavis,migayesa,musical,musician,performer,queen,rockofages,rockstar,rockstarinxs,singer,stage,talent,theartistmatters,theatrecleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #49. When you’re born into a family of doctors and you don’t want to be a doctor, what do you do? Today’s guest can answer that. He is actor, performer, singer, musician, rockstar - MiG Ayesa. Many of you may remember Mig when he competed on the TV show, “Rockstar INXS”, vying for a chance to become the new lead singer of the famous band. He may have come in third, but he was still able to secure a record deal with Universal Classics. Back in his younger years, he wanted to carve his on path away from his family’s medical professions. When he discovered music, as a way to control his stutter, he knew he was on to something. He did musical theatre in his teen years and really wanted to be a rockstar, even formed a band called Randy Badass & The Slickmaster Five. But family felt he still had to go to college and get a ‘real’ job. But destiny was calling and he got a role in a TV pilot called “Mission: Top Secret” and then was offered to play Ritchie Valens in “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story”. Other musicals started coming, including: “Burn The Floor”, “Rent”, “We Will Rock You”, “Rock of Ages” and “All Out of Love” to name a few. And MiG has a busy schedule. Travels all over the world to sing and perform, whether it’s on stage, TV or even cruise ships. Unfortunately, there have been times that he lost his voice, but he pushed through and got back on track. This is one of my favorite interviews. He had so much to offer and I was inspired. Special thanks to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. You are going to love this episode. So, without further ado, enjoy my chat with MiG Ayesa.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/joanna-finchShe grew up with creativity flowing through her, whether it was singing or acting.
She was going to pursue acting in California, but got married and had a family and moved back to Canada. In that particular area, there wasn’t much of an art scene. Thankfully, she was able to move again and joined a choir. Then, formed a band. And also got involved in dinner theatre and cabaret shows.
Some of her music was even featured on the MTV show, “The Osbournes”.
Joanna can not only sing, but can play several instruments including, the piano, viola, flute and ukulele.
She goes into the 3 personas that inhabit her creativity and what each one brings to her art.
She has performed in several places and tells of her time in China.
A free spirit and vibrant soul, I’m sure you will enjoy my chat with Joanna Finch.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22592696Mon, 10 Feb 2020 12:00:07 +0000TheArtistMattersWe’ve made it to show #50. And we have my 2nd guest hailing from Canada. Musician, Singer, Performer - Joanna Finch. She grew up with creativity flowing through her, whether it was singing or acting. She was going to pursue acting in California, but...She grew up with creativity flowing through her, whether it was singing or acting.
She was going to pursue acting in California, but got married and had a family and moved back to Canada. In that particular area, there wasn’t much of an art scene. Thankfully, she was able to move again and joined a choir. Then, formed a band. And also got involved in dinner theatre and cabaret shows.
Some of her music was even featured on the MTV show, “The Osbournes”.
Joanna can not only sing, but can play several instruments including, the piano, viola, flute and ukulele.
She goes into the 3 personas that inhabit her creativity and what each one brings to her art.
She has performed in several places and tells of her time in China.
A free spirit and vibrant soul, I’m sure you will enjoy my chat with Joanna Finch.]]>4233acting,alexrudy,art,artist,cabaret,canada,canadian,dontkeepyourdayjob,joannafinch,music,musician,performer,podcast,singer,theartistmatters,thearts,theatre,thefouragreementscleanfullTheArtistMattersWe’ve made it to show #50. And we have my 2nd guest hailing from Canada. Musician, Singer, Performer - Joanna Finch. She grew up with creativity flowing through her, whether it was singing or acting. She was going to pursue acting in California, but got married and had a family and moved back to Canada. In that particular area, there wasn’t much of an art scene. Thankfully, she was able to move again and joined a choir. Then, formed a band. And also got involved in dinner theatre and cabaret shows. Some of her music was even featured on the MTV show, “The Osbournes”. Joanna can not only sing, but can play several instruments including, the piano, viola, flute and ukulele. She goes into the 3 personas that inhabit her creativity and what each one brings to her art. She has performed in several places and tells of her time in China. A free spirit and vibrant soul, I’m sure you will enjoy my chat with Joanna Finch.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/robin-finneyShe started a solo travel journey around the world in 2018, after quitting her corporate marketing job of 11 years. With little plans in place, Robin took the bold move of letting go of her apartment, furniture, many possessions, and even sold her car. She set off on a solo nomadic journey to 11 countries across 4 continents in the span of 8 months.
During her travels, Robin began doing photoshoots. At first it started off as a hobby - something she just wanted to do for fun. But in the midst of her photoshoot in Mexico, it became clear that this was more than a hobby. It soon became her mission and a way to support local economies by hiring local photographers, artisans, and stylists. Since then, she has done photo shoots in Morocco, Tunisia, Paris, Argentina and New Zealand, to name a few.
Robin also found the inspiration to launch her own business and embark on a new journey of teaching confidence and empowerment through solo travel experiences and retreats, photo adventures, and coaching. All of this can be found on her site, www.wanderingaunt.com.
This was such an enjoyable and inspiring story that I knew I had to have her on the show. So, enjoy my chat with Robin Finney.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22855712Mon, 17 Feb 2020 12:00:18 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to show #51. Today’s guest is Robin Finney. She is a Model. Solo Traveler. Nomad.  Yogi. Thoughtful Thinker.  Confidence & Empowerment Guide.  She started a solo travel journey around the world in 2018, after quitting her corporate...She started a solo travel journey around the world in 2018, after quitting her corporate marketing job of 11 years. With little plans in place, Robin took the bold move of letting go of her apartment, furniture, many possessions, and even sold her car. She set off on a solo nomadic journey to 11 countries across 4 continents in the span of 8 months.
During her travels, Robin began doing photoshoots. At first it started off as a hobby - something she just wanted to do for fun. But in the midst of her photoshoot in Mexico, it became clear that this was more than a hobby. It soon became her mission and a way to support local economies by hiring local photographers, artisans, and stylists. Since then, she has done photo shoots in Morocco, Tunisia, Paris, Argentina and New Zealand, to name a few.
Robin also found the inspiration to launch her own business and embark on a new journey of teaching confidence and empowerment through solo travel experiences and retreats, photo adventures, and coaching. All of this can be found on her site, www.wanderingaunt.com.
This was such an enjoyable and inspiring story that I knew I had to have her on the show. So, enjoy my chat with Robin Finney.]]>3215alexrudy,art,artist,arts,buschgardens,countries,djal-x,entrepreneur,maximumtunage,model,photos,photoshoots,podcast,radioshow,robinfinney,solotraveler,thartistmatters,travel,valentines,wanderingauntcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to show #51. Today’s guest is Robin Finney. She is a Model. Solo Traveler. Nomad.  Yogi. Thoughtful Thinker.  Confidence & Empowerment Guide.  She started a solo travel journey around the world in 2018, after quitting her corporate marketing job of 11 years. With little plans in place, Robin took the bold move of letting go of her apartment, furniture, many possessions, and even sold her car. She set off on a solo nomadic journey to 11 countries across 4 continents in the span of 8 months. During her travels, Robin began doing photoshoots. At first it started off as a hobby - something she just wanted to do for fun. But in the midst of her photoshoot in Mexico, it became clear that this was more than a hobby. It soon became her mission and a way to support local economies by hiring local photographers, artisans, and stylists. Since then, she has done photo shoots in Morocco, Tunisia, Paris, Argentina and New Zealand, to name a few. Robin also found the inspiration to launch her own business and embark on a new journey of teaching confidence and empowerment through solo travel experiences and retreats, photo adventures, and coaching. All of this can be found on her site, www.wanderingaunt.com. This was such an enjoyable and inspiring story that I knew I had to have her on the show. So, enjoy my chat with Robin Finney.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/jimmy-ferraro He knew from a young age he wanted to be an actor, singer, performer. He got his first singing gig at the age of 16 at a nightclub in New York. From there, he carved out a path and landed roles in several plays and musicals. He has performed in over 3000 performances, including his Broadway debut, of “Fiddler on the Roof”. Teyve has become his signature role. Other favorite roles include: Edna in "Hairspray", Sancho in "Man of La Mancha", and Nicely- Nicely in "Guys & Dolls".
He opened the first dinner theatre in Pasco county, Florida in 1977. And would later open up other theatres including: the Angel Garden Cafe Theatre and the Angel Cabaret Theatre,
It was during his time on stage in the 80’s, that Jimmy met his future wife, Dee Etta - who is also an accomplished singer and performer.
He created Jimmy Ferraro’s Academy of Performing Arts to teach the craft to up and coming new talent.
And he has been in show business for over 40 years. This is so inspiring to me. He was committed to this creative endeavor and never lost sight of achieving his dream. This is why his story matters.
I know you will get so much from this, so enjoy my chat my chat with Jimmy Ferraro.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23055407Mon, 24 Feb 2020 12:00:15 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #52. Today’s guest is one I have been wanting on the podcast since the beginning. We were introduced by a mutual theatre friend through social media a few years ago. Scheduling time to meet up for an interview proved challenging.... He knew from a young age he wanted to be an actor, singer, performer. He got his first singing gig at the age of 16 at a nightclub in New York. From there, he carved out a path and landed roles in several plays and musicals. He has performed in over 3000 performances, including his Broadway debut, of “Fiddler on the Roof”. Teyve has become his signature role. Other favorite roles include: Edna in "Hairspray", Sancho in "Man of La Mancha", and Nicely- Nicely in "Guys & Dolls".
He opened the first dinner theatre in Pasco county, Florida in 1977. And would later open up other theatres including: the Angel Garden Cafe Theatre and the Angel Cabaret Theatre,
It was during his time on stage in the 80’s, that Jimmy met his future wife, Dee Etta - who is also an accomplished singer and performer.
He created Jimmy Ferraro’s Academy of Performing Arts to teach the craft to up and coming new talent.
And he has been in show business for over 40 years. This is so inspiring to me. He was committed to this creative endeavor and never lost sight of achieving his dream. This is why his story matters.
I know you will get so much from this, so enjoy my chat my chat with Jimmy Ferraro.]]>4246actor,alexrudy,art,artist,arts,broadway,dinnertheatre,director,florida,jimmyferraro,longisland,newyork,performer,producer,singer,stage,teacher,theartistmatters,theatrecleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #52. Today’s guest is one I have been wanting on the podcast since the beginning. We were introduced by a mutual theatre friend through social media a few years ago. Scheduling time to meet up for an interview proved challenging. Busy schedules, holidays, other commitments. We finally met in person briefly at the Golden Corral Spring of last year. And then, he moved to North Carolina in the winter. Still - we just couldn’t find the time until now. I am so happy to bring to you, Jimmy Ferraro. He knew from a young age he wanted to be an actor, singer, performer. He got his first singing gig at the age of 16 at a nightclub in New York. From there, he carved out a path and landed roles in several plays and musicals. He has performed in over 3000 performances, including his Broadway debut, of “Fiddler on the Roof”. Teyve has become his signature role. Other favorite roles include: Edna in "Hairspray", Sancho in "Man of La Mancha", and Nicely- Nicely in "Guys & Dolls". He opened the first dinner theatre in Pasco county, Florida in 1977. And would later open up other theatres including: the Angel Garden Cafe Theatre and the Angel Cabaret Theatre, It was during his time on stage in the 80’s, that Jimmy met his future wife, Dee Etta - who is also an accomplished singer and performer. He created Jimmy Ferraro’s Academy of Performing Arts to teach the craft to up and coming new talent. And he has been in show business for over 40 years. This is so inspiring to me. He was committed to this creative endeavor and never lost sight of achieving his dream. This is why his story matters. I know you will get so much from this, so enjoy my chat my chat with Jimmy Ferraro.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tam-one-year-bashhttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/23343414Mon, 02 Mar 2020 12:00:21 +0000TheArtistMattersThat's right. The Artist Matters is officially one year old this week. Come join the celebration and listen to great quotes from several of the guests featured on the show.7099actors,alexrudy,art,artist,directors,entrepreneur,graphicarts,jewelers,makeup,model,musicians,oneyear,oneyearanniversary,painters,photographers,podcasters,poetry,theartistmatters,thearts,writerscleanfullTheArtistMattersThat's right. The Artist Matters is officially one year old this week. Come join the celebration and listen to great quotes from several of the guests featured on the show.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/nancy-norbeckNancy is a writer, creativity coach, singer, actor and podcaster.
She came from a family that encouraged creativity. Her mother played the flute. Her brother liked to sketch. Both her parents sang in choirs. Nancy joined them when she was 4 years old. She performed in school plays too. But she really enjoyed books. And soon found herself writing her own stories. Nancy even wrote fan fiction stories for “Doctor Who”.
She did take a break from writing for several years, but felt the tug and went back. Nancy go her MFA from Goddard. From that experience came her first novel, “The Silver Child”.
Then, Nancy took a pivot and became a creativity coach through Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching.
And Nancy took another pivot and started her own podcast, Follow Your Curiosity. Similar to this show, her podcast features many creative types on their journeys and why they do what they do.
It was an enjoyable connecting with her and listening to my “sister podcaster”.
Enjoy my chat with Nancy Norbeck.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/24852074Mon, 06 Apr 2020 11:00:18 +0000TheArtistMattersIt has been some time. Glad to be back and bring you my first guest since February. She is Nancy Norbeck. Nancy is a writer, creativity coach, singer, actor and podcaster. She came from a family that encouraged creativity. Her mother played the...Nancy is a writer, creativity coach, singer, actor and podcaster.
She came from a family that encouraged creativity. Her mother played the flute. Her brother liked to sketch. Both her parents sang in choirs. Nancy joined them when she was 4 years old. She performed in school plays too. But she really enjoyed books. And soon found herself writing her own stories. Nancy even wrote fan fiction stories for “Doctor Who”.
She did take a break from writing for several years, but felt the tug and went back. Nancy go her MFA from Goddard. From that experience came her first novel, “The Silver Child”.
Then, Nancy took a pivot and became a creativity coach through Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching.
And Nancy took another pivot and started her own podcast, Follow Your Curiosity. Similar to this show, her podcast features many creative types on their journeys and why they do what they do.
It was an enjoyable connecting with her and listening to my “sister podcaster”.
Enjoy my chat with Nancy Norbeck.]]>5162actor,alexrudy,art,artist,arts,coaching,connection,coronavirus,creativity,creativitycoach,followyourcuriousity,nancynorbeck,novel,podcast,podcaster,podcasting,singer,theartistmatters,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersIt has been some time. Glad to be back and bring you my first guest since February. She is Nancy Norbeck. Nancy is a writer, creativity coach, singer, actor and podcaster. She came from a family that encouraged creativity. Her mother played the flute. Her brother liked to sketch. Both her parents sang in choirs. Nancy joined them when she was 4 years old. She performed in school plays too. But she really enjoyed books. And soon found herself writing her own stories. Nancy even wrote fan fiction stories for “Doctor Who”. She did take a break from writing for several years, but felt the tug and went back. Nancy go her MFA from Goddard. From that experience came her first novel, “The Silver Child”. Then, Nancy took a pivot and became a creativity coach through Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching. And Nancy took another pivot and started her own podcast, Follow Your Curiosity. Similar to this show, her podcast features many creative types on their journeys and why they do what they do. It was an enjoyable connecting with her and listening to my “sister podcaster”. Enjoy my chat with Nancy Norbeck.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/my-bonus-for-aprilhttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/25509581Wed, 15 Apr 2020 11:00:05 +0000TheArtistMattersJust thought I'd come on and update all of you on how I'm doing. Even pay a little tribute to the late James Lipton and answer his famous questionnaire. Enjoy!901alexrudy,art,artist,creative,hanginginthere,horseriding,injunction,insidetheactorsstudio,jameslipton,pandemic,podcast,questionnaire,theartistmatters,videochat,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersJust thought I'd come on and update all of you on how I'm doing. Even pay a little tribute to the late James Lipton and answer his famous questionnaire. Enjoy!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/bobby-parilloBob has always enjoyed painting and was inspired by painters he saw on TV. Took to it, like a natural.
His artistic interests led him to take up drumming. Was in his high school band, which performed at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY.
We met in 2001 when he and his soon-to-be wife, Vanessa were running NY Karaoke. I’d follow them wherever they went because they were friendly and fun and had a great selection of music.
In 2015, it was time for a pivot. They decided to try a new venture - paint parties. And within a few months, their business, Happy Little Brushstrokes was born. Bob has done small parties, parties with as many as 100 attendees all over Long Island and the NY area.
The business has grown steadily and kept Bob pretty busy (which is why it was difficult to schedule an interview with the man).
Unfortunately, during this pandemic, paint parties aren’t being scheduled. But Bob has created an online, virtual painting experience to keep the business going.
I am so glad we got to catch up and learn more about his creative journey. Enjoy my chat with Bob Parillo.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/25724731Mon, 20 Apr 2020 11:00:10 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome back to our regularly scheduled program, everybody. Today, we have a long-time from I’ve been wanting to have as a guest for awhile - Bob Parillo. He is a paint party artist, drummer and karaoke DJ, to name a few. Bob has always enjoyed...Bob has always enjoyed painting and was inspired by painters he saw on TV. Took to it, like a natural.
His artistic interests led him to take up drumming. Was in his high school band, which performed at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY.
We met in 2001 when he and his soon-to-be wife, Vanessa were running NY Karaoke. I’d follow them wherever they went because they were friendly and fun and had a great selection of music.
In 2015, it was time for a pivot. They decided to try a new venture - paint parties. And within a few months, their business, Happy Little Brushstrokes was born. Bob has done small parties, parties with as many as 100 attendees all over Long Island and the NY area.
The business has grown steadily and kept Bob pretty busy (which is why it was difficult to schedule an interview with the man).
Unfortunately, during this pandemic, paint parties aren’t being scheduled. But Bob has created an online, virtual painting experience to keep the business going.
I am so glad we got to catch up and learn more about his creative journey. Enjoy my chat with Bob Parillo.]]>4922alexrudy,art,artist,band,bobparillo,drummer,drums,happylittlebrushstrokes,karaoke,mixing,paint,painter,painting,paintparties,paintparty,theartistmatters,theartscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome back to our regularly scheduled program, everybody. Today, we have a long-time from I’ve been wanting to have as a guest for awhile - Bob Parillo. He is a paint party artist, drummer and karaoke DJ, to name a few. Bob has always enjoyed painting and was inspired by painters he saw on TV. Took to it, like a natural. His artistic interests led him to take up drumming. Was in his high school band, which performed at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY. We met in 2001 when he and his soon-to-be wife, Vanessa were running NY Karaoke. I’d follow them wherever they went because they were friendly and fun and had a great selection of music. In 2015, it was time for a pivot. They decided to try a new venture - paint parties. And within a few months, their business, Happy Little Brushstrokes was born. Bob has done small parties, parties with as many as 100 attendees all over Long Island and the NY area. The business has grown steadily and kept Bob pretty busy (which is why it was difficult to schedule an interview with the man). Unfortunately, during this pandemic, paint parties aren’t being scheduled. But Bob has created an online, virtual painting experience to keep the business going. I am so glad we got to catch up and learn more about his creative journey. Enjoy my chat with Bob Parillo.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tracy-matthewsHer passion for design started as a child, dreaming of creating wedding gowns. When she took her first jewelry fabrication class as a college elective, the seed was planted.
Tracy started her first jewelry business as a hobby, designing for bridal parties, friends and families.
In her twenties, she quit her day job to pursue the dream full time. And her first legitimate brand, Tracy Matthews Designs, Inc. was born. Over the years, her collection was sold in over 350 retail outlets all over the globe (ABC home, Sundance Catalog, Bloomingdales, Anthro). Celebrities enjoyed her work (Orlando Bloom, Charlize Theron, Halle Berry, David Cooke). And plenty of media coverage (InStyle, Lucky, Real Simple, TV Shows and Movies)
She has even won some awards: Gen Art Fresh Faces in Fashion (2006) and JCK Rising Star (2007)
Unfortunately, in 2009 she had to file for bankruptcy. Feeling like a failure, Tracy abandoned her jewelry design ambitions. She attempted yoga and some other paths, but couldn’t resist the creative tug to go back into jewelry design. She gathered up all her courage and started over, with a new perspective. And her business is truly thriving.
Speaking of that word, “Thrive” -Tracy launched a podcast called Thrive By Design supporting designers and makers with business, marketing and lifestyle strategies. And she also has Flourish and Thrive Academy, helping jewelry designers attract lifelong customers.
I’m telling you, this woman is crushing it and I am so blessed to have been able to chat with her. Such a great voice for us creatives. Her slogan says it all - community and collaboration over competition.
Enjoy out conversation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/26630152Mon, 04 May 2020 11:00:08 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode # 56 with Jeweler, Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur - Tracy Matthews. Her passion for design started as a child, dreaming of creating wedding gowns. When she took her first jewelry fabrication class as a college elective, the seed...Her passion for design started as a child, dreaming of creating wedding gowns. When she took her first jewelry fabrication class as a college elective, the seed was planted.
Tracy started her first jewelry business as a hobby, designing for bridal parties, friends and families.
In her twenties, she quit her day job to pursue the dream full time. And her first legitimate brand, Tracy Matthews Designs, Inc. was born. Over the years, her collection was sold in over 350 retail outlets all over the globe (ABC home, Sundance Catalog, Bloomingdales, Anthro). Celebrities enjoyed her work (Orlando Bloom, Charlize Theron, Halle Berry, David Cooke). And plenty of media coverage (InStyle, Lucky, Real Simple, TV Shows and Movies)
She has even won some awards: Gen Art Fresh Faces in Fashion (2006) and JCK Rising Star (2007)
Unfortunately, in 2009 she had to file for bankruptcy. Feeling like a failure, Tracy abandoned her jewelry design ambitions. She attempted yoga and some other paths, but couldn’t resist the creative tug to go back into jewelry design. She gathered up all her courage and started over, with a new perspective. And her business is truly thriving.
Speaking of that word, “Thrive” -Tracy launched a podcast called Thrive By Design supporting designers and makers with business, marketing and lifestyle strategies. And she also has Flourish and Thrive Academy, helping jewelry designers attract lifelong customers.
I’m telling you, this woman is crushing it and I am so blessed to have been able to chat with her. Such a great voice for us creatives. Her slogan says it all - community and collaboration over competition.
Enjoy out conversation.]]>3775alexrudy,art,artist,crushingit,design,entrepreneur,flourishandthriveacademy,jeweler,jewelry,movies,persistence,playlists,podcast,podcasting,podcasts,success,theartistmatters,thearts,thrivebydesign,tracymatthewscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode # 56 with Jeweler, Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur - Tracy Matthews. Her passion for design started as a child, dreaming of creating wedding gowns. When she took her first jewelry fabrication class as a college elective, the seed was planted. Tracy started her first jewelry business as a hobby, designing for bridal parties, friends and families. In her twenties, she quit her day job to pursue the dream full time. And her first legitimate brand, Tracy Matthews Designs, Inc. was born. Over the years, her collection was sold in over 350 retail outlets all over the globe (ABC home, Sundance Catalog, Bloomingdales, Anthro). Celebrities enjoyed her work (Orlando Bloom, Charlize Theron, Halle Berry, David Cooke). And plenty of media coverage (InStyle, Lucky, Real Simple, TV Shows and Movies) She has even won some awards: Gen Art Fresh Faces in Fashion (2006) and JCK Rising Star (2007) Unfortunately, in 2009 she had to file for bankruptcy. Feeling like a failure, Tracy abandoned her jewelry design ambitions. She attempted yoga and some other paths, but couldn’t resist the creative tug to go back into jewelry design. She gathered up all her courage and started over, with a new perspective. And her business is truly thriving. Speaking of that word, “Thrive” -Tracy launched a podcast called Thrive By Design supporting designers and makers with business, marketing and lifestyle strategies. And she also has Flourish and Thrive Academy, helping jewelry designers attract lifelong customers. I’m telling you, this woman is crushing it and I am so blessed to have been able to chat with her. Such a great voice for us creatives. Her slogan says it all - community and collaboration over competition. Enjoy out conversation.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/bruce-coopermanThis was such a treat. You are going to learn so much about what goes into creating, filming and directing a soap opera (or daytime drama, if you prefer). Bruce offers an incredible wealth of stories and info, I know you’re going to enjoy this.
Take a listen to my chat with Bruce Cooperman.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27370752Mon, 18 May 2020 11:05:05 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode # 57. Today we have Bruce Cooperman. He was a cameraman on the soap opera, “One Life To Live” for 15 years, then another 16 years as a Director of the show. During that time, he won 2 Daytime Emmys. When the show went off the...This was such a treat. You are going to learn so much about what goes into creating, filming and directing a soap opera (or daytime drama, if you prefer). Bruce offers an incredible wealth of stories and info, I know you’re going to enjoy this.
Take a listen to my chat with Bruce Cooperman.]]>5527acting,alexrudy,art,artist,brucecooperman,cameraman,camerawork,daytimedrama,digital,directing,director,entertainment,laurieanndavis,onelifetolive,soapopera,sports,television,theartistmatters,tv,videocleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode # 57. Today we have Bruce Cooperman. He was a cameraman on the soap opera, “One Life To Live” for 15 years, then another 16 years as a Director of the show. During that time, he won 2 Daytime Emmys. When the show went off the air, Bruce was able to keep working. Doing camera work for major sporting events, the 2016 Democratic and republican conventions, “The Chew” for 5 years and currently the Tamron Hall Show. This was such a treat. You are going to learn so much about what goes into creating, filming and directing a soap opera (or daytime drama, if you prefer). Bruce offers an incredible wealth of stories and info, I know you’re going to enjoy this. Take a listen to my chat with Bruce Cooperman.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/alan-needlemanThrough it all, he always treated people with kindness and respect. Qualities that can get lost in show business. He states it so simply that he doesn’t want to be ashamed of the person looking back at him in the mirror. We need more of that in the world.
Such an enjoyable interview that I know you’ll get a lot out of. Enjoy my chat with Alan Needleman.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/28574272Mon, 01 Jun 2020 11:00:05 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #58. The “One Life To Live” saga continues. We have another guest who worked on that show. His name is Alan Needleman. He worked in TV for 40 years. Starting in payroll for ABC, he worked his way up the creative ladder. He...Through it all, he always treated people with kindness and respect. Qualities that can get lost in show business. He states it so simply that he doesn’t want to be ashamed of the person looking back at him in the mirror. We need more of that in the world.
Such an enjoyable interview that I know you’ll get a lot out of. Enjoy my chat with Alan Needleman.]]>6313actors,alanneedleman,alexrudy,art,artist,coordinator,daytimedrama,entertainmentbusiness,kindness,laurieanndavis,needles,olympics,onelifetolive,production,soapopera,stagemanager,television,theartistmatters,thearts,tvcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #58. The “One Life To Live” saga continues. We have another guest who worked on that show. His name is Alan Needleman. He worked in TV for 40 years. Starting in payroll for ABC, he worked his way up the creative ladder. He eventually became Stage Manager on “One Life To Live”. He met and worked with two previous guests : Laurie Ann Davis and Bruce Cooperman. His duties included: working with actors and extras, being a direct representation for the Director when they weren’t on the stage floor and making sure everything runs smoothly on the set. He even won some Daytime Emmys; some with Bruce too. Alan also had the district honor of working for ABC at the 1984 Winter Olympics. The story he shares about that experience is incredible. Through it all, he always treated people with kindness and respect. Qualities that can get lost in show business. He states it so simply that he doesn’t want to be ashamed of the person looking back at him in the mirror. We need more of that in the world. Such an enjoyable interview that I know you’ll get a lot out of. Enjoy my chat with Alan Needleman.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/alexander-jamesonHe began doing pageants at 9 months old. Mom and dad saw a little spark in him when he would memorize and recreate scenes from his favorite TV shows. He began modeling at the age of 4. He got his first lead role in a student film when he was 5. At the age of 8, he landed a role on an episode of The Michael J Fox Show. When Alexander was 10, he landed a role that he’s most recognized for - the son of Q on Impractical Jokers. He has also had the honor of being on Saturday Night Live. He worked with a previous Artist Matters guest, Chris Roach on Kevin Can Wait. Through him, Alexander met guest #1, Laurie Ann Davis and took her class to improve his craft.
He even had an audition for a Ron Howard movie.
He offers up great advice about handling rejection. I’m telling you, this young man is on his way. It was an honor to be his first ever interview. So, please enjoy my little conversation w/ Alexander Jameson.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/30612211Mon, 15 Jun 2020 11:00:14 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #59. Today, we have my 2nd youngest guest (My granddaughter still hold the title of youngest). But this young man has accomplished a lot in his 15 years on this planet. He is actor, Alexander Jameson. He began doing pageants at...He began doing pageants at 9 months old. Mom and dad saw a little spark in him when he would memorize and recreate scenes from his favorite TV shows. He began modeling at the age of 4. He got his first lead role in a student film when he was 5. At the age of 8, he landed a role on an episode of The Michael J Fox Show. When Alexander was 10, he landed a role that he’s most recognized for - the son of Q on Impractical Jokers. He has also had the honor of being on Saturday Night Live. He worked with a previous Artist Matters guest, Chris Roach on Kevin Can Wait. Through him, Alexander met guest #1, Laurie Ann Davis and took her class to improve his craft.
He even had an audition for a Ron Howard movie.
He offers up great advice about handling rejection. I’m telling you, this young man is on his way. It was an honor to be his first ever interview. So, please enjoy my little conversation w/ Alexander Jameson.]]>2674acting,actingschool,actor,alexanderjameson,art,artist,arts,audition,chrisroach,film,happy,imdb,impracticaljokers,laurieanndavis,michaeljfox,podcast,snl,theartistmatters,tv,youngactorcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #59. Today, we have my 2nd youngest guest (My granddaughter still hold the title of youngest). But this young man has accomplished a lot in his 15 years on this planet. He is actor, Alexander Jameson. He began doing pageants at 9 months old. Mom and dad saw a little spark in him when he would memorize and recreate scenes from his favorite TV shows. He began modeling at the age of 4. He got his first lead role in a student film when he was 5. At the age of 8, he landed a role on an episode of The Michael J Fox Show. When Alexander was 10, he landed a role that he’s most recognized for - the son of Q on Impractical Jokers. He has also had the honor of being on Saturday Night Live. He worked with a previous Artist Matters guest, Chris Roach on Kevin Can Wait. Through him, Alexander met guest #1, Laurie Ann Davis and took her class to improve his craft. He even had an audition for a Ron Howard movie. He offers up great advice about handling rejection. I’m telling you, this young man is on his way. It was an honor to be his first ever interview. So, please enjoy my little conversation w/ Alexander Jameson.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/michael-jess-alexanderIn 2018, he got back into a writing groove for himself and published 2 short stories. This led to “Boarded Windows, Dead Leaves” Michael’s first anthology featuring those 2 short stories, plus 7 other tales. He explores the supernatural and mysterious. Werewolves, vampires and zombies. And so much more. The book is set to be released later this July by Spooky House Press, run by a previous guest, Robert Ottone. Grateful he connected us.
There’s lots more, so let’s get into this and enjoy my chat with Michael Jess Alexander.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/33917876Mon, 29 Jun 2020 11:00:19 +0000TheArtistMattersToday we have Michael Jess Alexander. He is a writer/author who began his journey in Utah. He has always been a fan of the horror genre thanks to scary movies and books, like a Nightmare on Elm Street, the Goosebumps series and the Scary Stories to...In 2018, he got back into a writing groove for himself and published 2 short stories. This led to “Boarded Windows, Dead Leaves” Michael’s first anthology featuring those 2 short stories, plus 7 other tales. He explores the supernatural and mysterious. Werewolves, vampires and zombies. And so much more. The book is set to be released later this July by Spooky House Press, run by a previous guest, Robert Ottone. Grateful he connected us.
There’s lots more, so let’s get into this and enjoy my chat with Michael Jess Alexander.]]>4743alexrudy,art,artist,author,books,creative,creativewriting,fiction,halloween,horror,michaeljessalexander,robertottone,spooky,spookyhousepress,theartistmatters,vampire,werewolf,writer,writing,zombiescleanfullTheArtistMattersToday we have Michael Jess Alexander. He is a writer/author who began his journey in Utah. He has always been a fan of the horror genre thanks to scary movies and books, like a Nightmare on Elm Street, the Goosebumps series and the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark series. It wasn’t until his teen years that he decided to try his hand at writing his own fiction. He thought he’d pursue writing as a full-time career, but ended up becoming an English teacher for the last 10 years. In 2018, he got back into a writing groove for himself and published 2 short stories. This led to “Boarded Windows, Dead Leaves” Michael’s first anthology featuring those 2 short stories, plus 7 other tales. He explores the supernatural and mysterious. Werewolves, vampires and zombies. And so much more. The book is set to be released later this July by Spooky House Press, run by a previous guest, Robert Ottone. Grateful he connected us. There’s lots more, so let’s get into this and enjoy my chat with Michael Jess Alexander.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tony-walkerHe’s been acting since his days at Hicksville High School, class of 88. He’s also performed for Clare Rose Playhouse, Plaza Theatre, Broadhollow Theatre, as well as some independent films.
In the mid 90’s, Tony started working with Murder 4 U - a dinner theatre troupe and stayed with them until they closed in the early 2000’s.
From 1998-2002 , he also worked with V.O.I.C.E.S. - a troupe that performed dramatic readings. He played the lead (Utterson) in The Strange Case Of Dr Jeckyll & Mr Hyde, the Phantom in the non musical version of Phantom Of The Opera and several other shows.
Back in 2002, Tony was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. The tumor was in his right leg. It took a few years to get through that. He lost his job, marriage and his right leg. But he learned how precious life is, so Tony made all sorts of changes. Changes he wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for the cancer.
From 2002-2012, he directed, wrote, performed and booked shows for Drop Dead Comedy, a dinner theatre troupe performing murder mystery shows.
From 2012-present, he continued with the dinner theatre through Knock Em Dead Comedy, which also featured game shows and other custom comedy shows.
In 2018, The Knock Em Dead Comedy Radio Show was born. The show streams on govsradio.com out of Governors Comedy Club. In May of 2019, Tony also became the Program Director for govsradio.com and still has that job.
Just a few days before the quarantine, Tony made his stand up comedy debut at The Brokerage Comedy Club in Bellmore, NY.
This man is not afraid to expand his creative palette and try something new. His story was so exciting and inspiring. I has such a blast and I know you will too.
Enjoy my chat with Tony Walker.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/38527309Mon, 13 Jul 2020 11:00:21 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode 61. Today we have yet another incredible guest referred to me by the one and only, Laurie Ann Davis. He’s an actor, performer, writer, director and just one talented guy, Tony Walker. He’s been acting since his days at...He’s been acting since his days at Hicksville High School, class of 88. He’s also performed for Clare Rose Playhouse, Plaza Theatre, Broadhollow Theatre, as well as some independent films.
In the mid 90’s, Tony started working with Murder 4 U - a dinner theatre troupe and stayed with them until they closed in the early 2000’s.
From 1998-2002 , he also worked with V.O.I.C.E.S. - a troupe that performed dramatic readings. He played the lead (Utterson) in The Strange Case Of Dr Jeckyll & Mr Hyde, the Phantom in the non musical version of Phantom Of The Opera and several other shows.
Back in 2002, Tony was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. The tumor was in his right leg. It took a few years to get through that. He lost his job, marriage and his right leg. But he learned how precious life is, so Tony made all sorts of changes. Changes he wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for the cancer.
From 2002-2012, he directed, wrote, performed and booked shows for Drop Dead Comedy, a dinner theatre troupe performing murder mystery shows.
From 2012-present, he continued with the dinner theatre through Knock Em Dead Comedy, which also featured game shows and other custom comedy shows.
In 2018, The Knock Em Dead Comedy Radio Show was born. The show streams on govsradio.com out of Governors Comedy Club. In May of 2019, Tony also became the Program Director for govsradio.com and still has that job.
Just a few days before the quarantine, Tony made his stand up comedy debut at The Brokerage Comedy Club in Bellmore, NY.
This man is not afraid to expand his creative palette and try something new. His story was so exciting and inspiring. I has such a blast and I know you will too.
Enjoy my chat with Tony Walker.]]>5602acting,actor,alexrudy,art,artist,cancersurvivor,comedy,creative,creativity,dinnertheatre,director,governorscomedyclub,knockemdeadcomedy,laurieanndavis,longisland,performer,theartistsmatters,theatre,tonywalker,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode 61. Today we have yet another incredible guest referred to me by the one and only, Laurie Ann Davis. He’s an actor, performer, writer, director and just one talented guy, Tony Walker. He’s been acting since his days at Hicksville High School, class of 88. He’s also performed for Clare Rose Playhouse, Plaza Theatre, Broadhollow Theatre, as well as some independent films. In the mid 90’s, Tony started working with Murder 4 U - a dinner theatre troupe and stayed with them until they closed in the early 2000’s. From 1998-2002 , he also worked with V.O.I.C.E.S. - a troupe that performed dramatic readings. He played the lead (Utterson) in The Strange Case Of Dr Jeckyll & Mr Hyde, the Phantom in the non musical version of Phantom Of The Opera and several other shows. Back in 2002, Tony was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. The tumor was in his right leg. It took a few years to get through that. He lost his job, marriage and his right leg. But he learned how precious life is, so Tony made all sorts of changes. Changes he wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for the cancer. From 2002-2012, he directed, wrote, performed and booked shows for Drop Dead Comedy, a dinner theatre troupe performing murder mystery shows. From 2012-present, he continued with the dinner theatre through Knock Em Dead Comedy, which also featured game shows and other custom comedy shows. In 2018, The Knock Em Dead Comedy Radio Show was born. The show streams on govsradio.com out of Governors Comedy Club. In May of 2019, Tony also became the Program Director for govsradio.com and still has that job. Just a few days before the quarantine, Tony made his stand up comedy debut at The Brokerage Comedy Club in Bellmore, NY. This man is not afraid to expand his creative palette and try something new. His story was so exciting and inspiring. I has such a blast and I know you will too. Enjoy my chat with Tony Walker.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/peter-freeman_2Peter is the principle trombone and President for the Massapequa Philharmonic Orchestra. He is also a member of the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra and has played with the South Shore Symphony and the Band of Long Island. He is a retired High School Band Director and Administrator of Fine and Performing Arts from Long Island, New York. An alumnus of Penn State, Peter was Baritone Horn Rank Leader for the Blue Band, principle trombone in the Penn State Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, and was the conductor of the basketball pep band. In addition to teaching, he was President of Nassau (County) Music Educators Association and the Nassau County Chapter of the New York State Council of Music Administrators.
Currently, in addition to performing and teaching privately,  Peter is the founder and administrator for “The Trombone Place”, a Facebook Group created to teach and motivate beginner through intermediate trombonists and their teachers. He is also the composer of “For Our Heroes”, a piece of music designed to be performed live and completely socially distanced by musicians of all ages and ability levels.
Pete is the humble husband to his wife Joann and the proud father to Jeanette and Billy (both wonderful trombonists in their own right!)
Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for introducing us. I know you will enjoy this chat with me and Peter Freeman.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/39980722Mon, 27 Jul 2020 11:00:21 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 62. Time to tune up some instruments. Today’s guest has done so much for the music education community on Long Island and his name is Peter Freeman. Peter is the principle trombone and President for the Massapequa Philharmonic...Peter is the principle trombone and President for the Massapequa Philharmonic Orchestra. He is also a member of the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra and has played with the South Shore Symphony and the Band of Long Island. He is a retired High School Band Director and Administrator of Fine and Performing Arts from Long Island, New York. An alumnus of Penn State, Peter was Baritone Horn Rank Leader for the Blue Band, principle trombone in the Penn State Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, and was the conductor of the basketball pep band. In addition to teaching, he was President of Nassau (County) Music Educators Association and the Nassau County Chapter of the New York State Council of Music Administrators.
Currently, in addition to performing and teaching privately,  Peter is the founder and administrator for “The Trombone Place”, a Facebook Group created to teach and motivate beginner through intermediate trombonists and their teachers. He is also the composer of “For Our Heroes”, a piece of music designed to be performed live and completely socially distanced by musicians of all ages and ability levels.
Pete is the humble husband to his wife Joann and the proud father to Jeanette and Billy (both wonderful trombonists in their own right!)
Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for introducing us. I know you will enjoy this chat with me and Peter Freeman.]]>5602alexrudy,art,artist,education,forourheroes,laurieanndavis,longisland,music,nassaucounty,newyork,orchestra,pennstate,peterfreeman,philharmonic,symphony,teacher,theartistmatters,trombone,tromboneplace,trombonistcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 62. Time to tune up some instruments. Today’s guest has done so much for the music education community on Long Island and his name is Peter Freeman. Peter is the principle trombone and President for the Massapequa Philharmonic Orchestra. He is also a member of the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra and has played with the South Shore Symphony and the Band of Long Island. He is a retired High School Band Director and Administrator of Fine and Performing Arts from Long Island, New York. An alumnus of Penn State, Peter was Baritone Horn Rank Leader for the Blue Band, principle trombone in the Penn State Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, and was the conductor of the basketball pep band. In addition to teaching, he was President of Nassau (County) Music Educators Association and the Nassau County Chapter of the New York State Council of Music Administrators. Currently, in addition to performing and teaching privately,  Peter is the founder and administrator for “The Trombone Place”, a Facebook Group created to teach and motivate beginner through intermediate trombonists and their teachers. He is also the composer of “For Our Heroes”, a piece of music designed to be performed live and completely socially distanced by musicians of all ages and ability levels. Pete is the humble husband to his wife Joann and the proud father to Jeanette and Billy (both wonderful trombonists in their own right!) Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for introducing us. I know you will enjoy this chat with me and Peter Freeman.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/chuck-tilleyHe has been a studio and touring musician for the past 32 years . He was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, AL and is a graduate of the Univ. of Alabama with a degree in Music Administration. He also studied orchestral percussion and big band drumming at the Eastman School of Music in New York . Although based in Nashville, he has also worked in Los Angeles in multiple genres of music and has performed in over 40 countries and in all 50 states. He also helped form the band, Sixwire. Chuck has recorded with, performed on TV with, and / or toured with over 100 major artists , including such diverse acts as: Dolly Parton , Al Jareau, Richard Marx , Alabama, Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Alex Lifeson (RUSH), Hugh Jackman, Carrie Underwood , Johnny Depp, Vince Gill, Keith Urban , Don Felder ( Eagles ) , Alice Cooper, Kenny Rogers , Olivia Newton-John, Billy Squire , Stephen Stills, Michael Bolton , Steve Cropper, Chris Isaak, Lee Greenwood, Sir Cliff Richard, Felix Cavaliere (the Rascals) Robby Kreiger (the Doors), Trisha Yearwood, Huey Lewis , Delbert McClinton, Charlie Daniels, John Hiatt, Tommy Shaw (STYX) , Cleveland Eaton , Kim Carnes, Edgar Winter, Fee Waybill (the Tubes), Ace Frehley (KISS), Jewell , Peter Frampton, Mickey Thomas ( Starship) , Lou Gramm ( Foreigner ) Uncle Kracker , Jonathon Cain & Neal Schon ( Journey) , Wynonna , Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean , Jamey Johnson, Brad Paisley , Steve Wariner ,Sara Evans , Hank Williams Jr. , Brenda Lee , Porter Wagoner, Trace Adkins , Darius Rucker , Scott Stapp (Creed), Matt Scannell (Vertical Horizon) , Englebert Humperdinck , Ronnie Dunn, Emerson Hart (Tonic) , Deana Carter, Gin Blossoms, Gretchen Wilson, Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon) , Martina McBride , Chris Daughtry, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter (Steely Dan/ Doobie Bro’s.) , Mark McGrath ( Sugar Ray) , Jason Scheff ( Chicago) , James Burton ( Elvis ), B. J. Thomas , Big & Rich , Phil Vassar, Chris Young , Kasey Musgraves , Clint Black , Rascal Flatts , Toby Keith , Tom T. Hall , Tony Joe White , and many others.
Chuck has performed on many numerous national TV shows such as: “ the Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Today show”, “The Voice”, “Ellen”, “Good Morning America”, “the CMA Awards” , “ A Capitol Fourth “ on PBS , “Hee Haw” and many others.
He has been in the House Band for many different network TV shows such as: USA Network’s “Nashville Star” (3 seasons), CMT’s “Next Superstar”, and “Can You Duet” (2 seasons) and CMT’s “Video Music Awards Show” ( 2 years ).
What a career in music. See. It can be done. Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. Enjoy my chat with Chuck.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40222604Mon, 10 Aug 2020 11:00:04 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 63. I felt a bit nervous getting ready for this one. That’s because this guy has performed on stage with so many big names as a drummer. His name is Chuck D. Tilley. He has been a studio and touring musician for the past 32 years...He has been a studio and touring musician for the past 32 years . He was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, AL and is a graduate of the Univ. of Alabama with a degree in Music Administration. He also studied orchestral percussion and big band drumming at the Eastman School of Music in New York . Although based in Nashville, he has also worked in Los Angeles in multiple genres of music and has performed in over 40 countries and in all 50 states. He also helped form the band, Sixwire. Chuck has recorded with, performed on TV with, and / or toured with over 100 major artists , including such diverse acts as: Dolly Parton , Al Jareau, Richard Marx , Alabama, Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Alex Lifeson (RUSH), Hugh Jackman, Carrie Underwood , Johnny Depp, Vince Gill, Keith Urban , Don Felder ( Eagles ) , Alice Cooper, Kenny Rogers , Olivia Newton-John, Billy Squire , Stephen Stills, Michael Bolton , Steve Cropper, Chris Isaak, Lee Greenwood, Sir Cliff Richard, Felix Cavaliere (the Rascals) Robby Kreiger (the Doors), Trisha Yearwood, Huey Lewis , Delbert McClinton, Charlie Daniels, John Hiatt, Tommy Shaw (STYX) , Cleveland Eaton , Kim Carnes, Edgar Winter, Fee Waybill (the Tubes), Ace Frehley (KISS), Jewell , Peter Frampton, Mickey Thomas ( Starship) , Lou Gramm ( Foreigner ) Uncle Kracker , Jonathon Cain & Neal Schon ( Journey) , Wynonna , Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean , Jamey Johnson, Brad Paisley , Steve Wariner ,Sara Evans , Hank Williams Jr. , Brenda Lee , Porter Wagoner, Trace Adkins , Darius Rucker , Scott Stapp (Creed), Matt Scannell (Vertical Horizon) , Englebert Humperdinck , Ronnie Dunn, Emerson Hart (Tonic) , Deana Carter, Gin Blossoms, Gretchen Wilson, Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon) , Martina McBride , Chris Daughtry, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter (Steely Dan/ Doobie Bro’s.) , Mark McGrath ( Sugar Ray) , Jason Scheff ( Chicago) , James Burton ( Elvis ), B. J. Thomas , Big & Rich , Phil Vassar, Chris Young , Kasey Musgraves , Clint Black , Rascal Flatts , Toby Keith , Tom T. Hall , Tony Joe White , and many others.
Chuck has performed on many numerous national TV shows such as: “ the Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Today show”, “The Voice”, “Ellen”, “Good Morning America”, “the CMA Awards” , “ A Capitol Fourth “ on PBS , “Hee Haw” and many others.
He has been in the House Band for many different network TV shows such as: USA Network’s “Nashville Star” (3 seasons), CMT’s “Next Superstar”, and “Can You Duet” (2 seasons) and CMT’s “Video Music Awards Show” ( 2 years ).
What a career in music. See. It can be done. Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. Enjoy my chat with Chuck.]]>5753alexrudy,art,artist,arts,career,chuckdtilley,dollyparton,drummer,drumming,drums,laurieanndavis,leegreenwood,matters,music,musician,richardmarx,sixwire,theartistmatterscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 63. I felt a bit nervous getting ready for this one. That’s because this guy has performed on stage with so many big names as a drummer. His name is Chuck D. Tilley. He has been a studio and touring musician for the past 32 years . He was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, AL and is a graduate of the Univ. of Alabama with a degree in Music Administration. He also studied orchestral percussion and big band drumming at the Eastman School of Music in New York . Although based in Nashville, he has also worked in Los Angeles in multiple genres of music and has performed in over 40 countries and in all 50 states. He also helped form the band, Sixwire. Chuck has recorded with, performed on TV with, and / or toured with over 100 major artists , including such diverse acts as: Dolly Parton , Al Jareau, Richard Marx , Alabama, Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Alex Lifeson (RUSH), Hugh Jackman, Carrie Underwood , Johnny Depp, Vince Gill, Keith Urban , Don Felder ( Eagles ) , Alice Cooper, Kenny Rogers , Olivia Newton-John, Billy Squire , Stephen Stills, Michael Bolton , Steve Cropper, Chris Isaak, Lee Greenwood, Sir Cliff Richard, Felix Cavaliere (the Rascals) Robby Kreiger (the Doors), Trisha Yearwood, Huey Lewis , Delbert McClinton, Charlie Daniels, John Hiatt, Tommy Shaw (STYX) , Cleveland Eaton , Kim Carnes, Edgar Winter, Fee Waybill (the Tubes), Ace Frehley (KISS), Jewell , Peter Frampton, Mickey Thomas ( Starship) , Lou Gramm ( Foreigner ) Uncle Kracker , Jonathon Cain & Neal Schon ( Journey) , Wynonna , Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean , Jamey Johnson, Brad Paisley , Steve Wariner ,Sara Evans , Hank Williams Jr. , Brenda Lee , Porter Wagoner, Trace Adkins , Darius Rucker , Scott Stapp (Creed), Matt Scannell (Vertical Horizon) , Englebert Humperdinck , Ronnie Dunn, Emerson Hart (Tonic) , Deana Carter, Gin Blossoms, Gretchen Wilson, Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon) , Martina McBride , Chris Daughtry, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter (Steely Dan/ Doobie Bro’s.) , Mark McGrath ( Sugar Ray) , Jason Scheff ( Chicago) , James Burton ( Elvis ), B. J. Thomas , Big & Rich , Phil Vassar, Chris Young , Kasey Musgraves , Clint Black , Rascal Flatts , Toby Keith , Tom T. Hall , Tony Joe White , and many others. Chuck has performed on many numerous national TV shows such as: “ the Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Today show”, “The Voice”, “Ellen”, “Good Morning America”, “the CMA Awards” , “ A Capitol Fourth “ on PBS , “Hee Haw” and many others. He has been in the House Band for many different network TV shows such as: USA Network’s “Nashville Star” (3 seasons), CMT’s “Next Superstar”, and “Can You Duet” (2 seasons) and CMT’s “Video Music Awards Show” ( 2 years ). What a career in music. See. It can be done. Thanks again to Laurie Ann Davis for connecting us. Enjoy my chat with Chuck.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/buddy-casimanoWhile on tour, Buddy performed at Royal Albert Hall for Princess Diana & Prince Charles, as well as Wembley Stadium in London, the Buddokhan in Tokyo, MoviStar Arena in Santiago Chile', the State Street Theatre in Sydney Australia and the legendary Madison Square Garden in NYC. But it was the Rockin Rio II performance in Rio De Janeiro (1991) that would go into the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest paying audience for a concert ever. On the bill were A-HA & Debbie Gibson. And they performed for 198,000 fans.
After his 3rd world tour with Deb, Buddy pursued my dream of dancing on Broadway and landed a part in Miss Saigon.
He offers many outrageous tales including being kicked by Madonna and having his nose broken by Sandy Duncan, plus many more.
His great advice on rejection is “I guess they weren’t looking for fabulous that day.”
And I know you’ll get a lot of fabulous from this episode. Enjoy my chat with Buddy Casimano.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40462532Mon, 24 Aug 2020 11:00:02 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 64. Everybody needs a buddy. Well, today you get one. A dancer, choreographer, photographer - today’s guest is Buddy Casimano. He has been a performer with 30 years of working experience in all mediums of show business.  Before...While on tour, Buddy performed at Royal Albert Hall for Princess Diana & Prince Charles, as well as Wembley Stadium in London, the Buddokhan in Tokyo, MoviStar Arena in Santiago Chile', the State Street Theatre in Sydney Australia and the legendary Madison Square Garden in NYC. But it was the Rockin Rio II performance in Rio De Janeiro (1991) that would go into the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest paying audience for a concert ever. On the bill were A-HA & Debbie Gibson. And they performed for 198,000 fans.
After his 3rd world tour with Deb, Buddy pursued my dream of dancing on Broadway and landed a part in Miss Saigon.
He offers many outrageous tales including being kicked by Madonna and having his nose broken by Sandy Duncan, plus many more.
His great advice on rejection is “I guess they weren’t looking for fabulous that day.”
And I know you’ll get a lot of fabulous from this episode. Enjoy my chat with Buddy Casimano.]]>4197art,artist,artistmatters,arts,broadway,buddy,buddycasimano,choreography,concerts,dance,dancer,dancing,debbiegibson,fabulous,guinessbookofworldrecords,laurieanndavis,performer,photgrapher,photography,tourscleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 64. Everybody needs a buddy. Well, today you get one. A dancer, choreographer, photographer - today’s guest is Buddy Casimano. He has been a performer with 30 years of working experience in all mediums of show business.  Before tumbling into show business, Buddy was a competitive ELITE level gymnast as well as a 3 time Jr. Olympic swim champion.
 In the (late) 80's, he attended high school with teen pop sensation Debbie Gibson. After he beat her in the talent show, she hired him and as her back-up dancer for her concert tours. While on tour, Buddy performed at Royal Albert Hall for Princess Diana & Prince Charles, as well as Wembley Stadium in London, the Buddokhan in Tokyo, MoviStar Arena in Santiago Chile', the State Street Theatre in Sydney Australia and the legendary Madison Square Garden in NYC. But it was the Rockin Rio II performance in Rio De Janeiro (1991) that would go into the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest paying audience for a concert ever. On the bill were A-HA & Debbie Gibson. And they performed for 198,000 fans. After his 3rd world tour with Deb, Buddy pursued my dream of dancing on Broadway and landed a part in Miss Saigon. He offers many outrageous tales including being kicked by Madonna and having his nose broken by Sandy Duncan, plus many more. His great advice on rejection is “I guess they weren’t looking for fabulous that day.” And I know you’ll get a lot of fabulous from this episode. Enjoy my chat with Buddy Casimano.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/steve-belangerIt wasn’t until he left his “soul-crushing” as a corporate executive that his creative journey began. This includes writing a memoir entitled My Penthouse Past : Failing My Way Up the Corporate Ladder of an Empire Built on Skin. An award-winning one-man show called It’s About Time. Acting in shows like: Rescue Me, Damages, The Americans and All My Children. Stand up at clubs like Caroline’s. He also co-hosts the podcast Long Island Explained with a previous guest, Chris Roach.
Steve had many stories to tell of taking the plunge into show biz. One of my favorites is the time he played golf with William Hurt. He has found a way to expand his creative talents and not limit himself to just one art. And this helped him spend time with his sons and see them grow up. What more could you ask for?
This is a memorable and entertaining conversation. Enjoy my chat with Steve Belanger.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40691204Mon, 07 Sep 2020 11:00:19 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 65. Today we have Steve Belanger. He is a writer, actor, comedian and podcaster. It wasn’t until he left his “soul-crushing” as a corporate executive that his creative journey began. This includes writing a memoir entitled My...It wasn’t until he left his “soul-crushing” as a corporate executive that his creative journey began. This includes writing a memoir entitled My Penthouse Past : Failing My Way Up the Corporate Ladder of an Empire Built on Skin. An award-winning one-man show called It’s About Time. Acting in shows like: Rescue Me, Damages, The Americans and All My Children. Stand up at clubs like Caroline’s. He also co-hosts the podcast Long Island Explained with a previous guest, Chris Roach.
Steve had many stories to tell of taking the plunge into show biz. One of my favorites is the time he played golf with William Hurt. He has found a way to expand his creative talents and not limit himself to just one art. And this helped him spend time with his sons and see them grow up. What more could you ask for?
This is a memorable and entertaining conversation. Enjoy my chat with Steve Belanger.]]>4503acting,art,artist,artistmatters,artistmatterspodcast,chrisroach,comedy,funny,laurieanndavis,longisland,longislandexplained,performing,podcast,podcasting,scripts,standup,stevebelanger,williamhurt,writer,writingcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 65. Today we have Steve Belanger. He is a writer, actor, comedian and podcaster. It wasn’t until he left his “soul-crushing” as a corporate executive that his creative journey began. This includes writing a memoir entitled My Penthouse Past : Failing My Way Up the Corporate Ladder of an Empire Built on Skin. An award-winning one-man show called It’s About Time. Acting in shows like: Rescue Me, Damages, The Americans and All My Children. Stand up at clubs like Caroline’s. He also co-hosts the podcast Long Island Explained with a previous guest, Chris Roach. Steve had many stories to tell of taking the plunge into show biz. One of my favorites is the time he played golf with William Hurt. He has found a way to expand his creative talents and not limit himself to just one art. And this helped him spend time with his sons and see them grow up. What more could you ask for? This is a memorable and entertaining conversation. Enjoy my chat with Steve Belanger.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/racquel-keller
Racquel earned her B.S. in Graphic Design, with a concentration in Fine Arts, from The American University and also holds a Certificate of Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University. After over a decade as a Law Firm Manager, Racquel decided to focus on her first love of making art. Presently, in addition to doing her art, she works as an Art Instructor at the Greenbelt Community Center, the College Park Arts Exchange and for select workshops at The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC. She regularly offers classes and workshops in a variety of mediums and subjects. She actively exhibits her work in the DC Metropolitan area and is a current Artist in Residence at The Greenbelt Community Center (Maryland, USA) and was an Artist in Residence at Chateau d'Orquevaux (Orquevaux, France). And if that's not enough, she also hosts the podcast, Pure Fire Creatives, sharing the stories of women in the arts.
Many thanks to previous guest, Sam Kimberle for connecting us. Enjoy!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41007515Mon, 21 Sep 2020 11:00:10 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 66. Today we have Racquel Keller. Her art is found in many forms, including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and assemblage. She constructs imagery inspired by her collection of natural specimens and vintage objects,...
Racquel earned her B.S. in Graphic Design, with a concentration in Fine Arts, from The American University and also holds a Certificate of Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University. After over a decade as a Law Firm Manager, Racquel decided to focus on her first love of making art. Presently, in addition to doing her art, she works as an Art Instructor at the Greenbelt Community Center, the College Park Arts Exchange and for select workshops at The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC. She regularly offers classes and workshops in a variety of mediums and subjects. She actively exhibits her work in the DC Metropolitan area and is a current Artist in Residence at The Greenbelt Community Center (Maryland, USA) and was an Artist in Residence at Chateau d'Orquevaux (Orquevaux, France). And if that's not enough, she also hosts the podcast, Pure Fire Creatives, sharing the stories of women in the arts.
Many thanks to previous guest, Sam Kimberle for connecting us. Enjoy!]]>4273alexrudy,art,artinstructor,artist,artistmatters,arts,artteacher,assemblage,cathyheller,dontkeepyourdayjob,drawing,instructor,painting,paris,podcast,podcaster,purefirecreatives,racquelkeller,samkimberle,teachercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 66. Today we have Racquel Keller. Her art is found in many forms, including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and assemblage. She constructs imagery inspired by her collection of natural specimens and vintage objects, with an eye toward putting these seemingly disparate pieces together to tell a story that captures the feeling of nostalgia these objects evoke. Racquel earned her B.S. in Graphic Design, with a concentration in Fine Arts, from The American University and also holds a Certificate of Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University. After over a decade as a Law Firm Manager, Racquel decided to focus on her first love of making art. Presently, in addition to doing her art, she works as an Art Instructor at the Greenbelt Community Center, the College Park Arts Exchange and for select workshops at The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC. She regularly offers classes and workshops in a variety of mediums and subjects. She actively exhibits her work in the DC Metropolitan area and is a current Artist in Residence at The Greenbelt Community Center (Maryland, USA) and was an Artist in Residence at Chateau d'Orquevaux (Orquevaux, France). And if that's not enough, she also hosts the podcast, Pure Fire Creatives, sharing the stories of women in the arts. Many thanks to previous guest, Sam Kimberle for connecting us. Enjoy!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/rob-o2Now, last year I read the first anthology after our interview. This time, I was able to read this new collection before our conversation. So, we’ll talk a lot more about specific stories that I liked and get some behind the scenes details about their origins and meanings. I was so excited to reconnect with Robert again and it was such a blast.
Enjoy my second chat with Robert Ottone.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41273337Mon, 05 Oct 2020 11:00:03 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 67. It’s the month of Halloween and time for some guests who love the holiday. Today, we have our first ever returning guest, Robert Ottone. Last year, around this time, he came out with his horror anthology called PEOPLE : A...Now, last year I read the first anthology after our interview. This time, I was able to read this new collection before our conversation. So, we’ll talk a lot more about specific stories that I liked and get some behind the scenes details about their origins and meanings. I was so excited to reconnect with Robert again and it was such a blast.
Enjoy my second chat with Robert Ottone.]]>4937anthology,art,artist,author,boardedwindowsdeadleaves,books,comicbooks,fiction,halloween,herinfernalname,horror,movies,october,podcast,robertottone,spookyhousepress,stories,supernatural,theartistmatters,writercleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode 67. It’s the month of Halloween and time for some guests who love the holiday. Today, we have our first ever returning guest, Robert Ottone. Last year, around this time, he came out with his horror anthology called PEOPLE : A HORROR ANTHOLOGY ABOUT LOVE, LOSS & THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT. Well, this year, just in time for Halloween, he’s released his second anthology called HER INFERNAL NAME AND OTHER NIGHTMARES. In between that time, his publishing company, Spooky House Press, released a collection from a previous guest, Michael Jess Alexander called BOARDED WINDOWS, DEAD LEAVES. He has been keeping busy, to say the least. Now, last year I read the first anthology after our interview. This time, I was able to read this new collection before our conversation. So, we’ll talk a lot more about specific stories that I liked and get some behind the scenes details about their origins and meanings. I was so excited to reconnect with Robert again and it was such a blast. Enjoy my second chat with Robert Ottone.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/kristen-staffordKristen has been a “Halloweenist” for as long as she can remember. She celebrates it all-year round. Collecting Halloween art started with the Dept 56 Halloween Village sets and grew from there. She started going to Halloween art shows and became fascinated with original art. Meeting the artists and hearing their stories inspired her to try her hand at podcasting. And The Halloween Art & Travel Podcast was born. Season 1 debuted August 2018. The focus is solely on Halloween art and artists.
Kristen also volunteers as a tour guide for a local cemetery and has passion for the history surrounding cemeteries and tombstone art.
She has traveled to many notable places that tie into Halloween, such as: Anoka, MN, Sleepy Hollow, Hell, MI, New Orleans and Salem.
There’s much more, so enjoy my chat with Kristen Stafford.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41503437Mon, 19 Oct 2020 11:00:17 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode 68. And Halloween continues with a guest who has been one year in the making. We connected just after Halloween, so I wanted to wait to get her on the show until the season was back. And she’s here. Welcome Halloween art...Kristen has been a “Halloweenist” for as long as she can remember. She celebrates it all-year round. Collecting Halloween art started with the Dept 56 Halloween Village sets and grew from there. She started going to Halloween art shows and became fascinated with original art. Meeting the artists and hearing their stories inspired her to try her hand at podcasting. And The Halloween Art & Travel Podcast was born. Season 1 debuted August 2018. The focus is solely on Halloween art and artists.
Kristen also volunteers as a tour guide for a local cemetery and has passion for the history surrounding cemeteries and tombstone art.
She has traveled to many notable places that tie into Halloween, such as: Anoka, MN, Sleepy Hollow, Hell, MI, New Orleans and Salem.
There’s much more, so enjoy my chat with Kristen Stafford.]]>4605alexrudy,art,artcollection,artcollector,artist,artistmatters,artshows,cemetery,collector,halloween,halloweenart,halloweenartandtravel,halloweenartist,halloweenist,history,kristenstafford,podcast,podcaster,taphophile,travelcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to Episode 68. And Halloween continues with a guest who has been one year in the making. We connected just after Halloween, so I wanted to wait to get her on the show until the season was back. And she’s here. Welcome Halloween art collector and podcaster, Kristen Stafford. Kristen has been a “Halloweenist” for as long as she can remember. She celebrates it all-year round. Collecting Halloween art started with the Dept 56 Halloween Village sets and grew from there. She started going to Halloween art shows and became fascinated with original art. Meeting the artists and hearing their stories inspired her to try her hand at podcasting. And The Halloween Art & Travel Podcast was born. Season 1 debuted August 2018. The focus is solely on Halloween art and artists. Kristen also volunteers as a tour guide for a local cemetery and has passion for the history surrounding cemeteries and tombstone art. She has traveled to many notable places that tie into Halloween, such as: Anoka, MN, Sleepy Hollow, Hell, MI, New Orleans and Salem. There’s much more, so enjoy my chat with Kristen Stafford.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/brian-brandowHis name is Brain Brandow. We attended a TV/Video production course in our senior year at Brentwood High School. He would later come back to work as an assistant for that same course. He eventually went to work for Cablevision and actually helped me get a job there as well.
Brian started a family and of course, expenses increased. So did the debt. Before long, that debt swelled to $109,000. Brian and his family took action; reading books, changing their spending habits and their lifestyle. And in about 4 years, they were debt-free.
From all this, Brian was inspired to create Debt Discipline.com. Here he shares his story, personal finance tips and much more. He also decided to share his story and wisdom at various libraries and schools. Through collaboration, he was able to set up some financial literacy programs in various schools, classes K-12, throughout Long Island. Not only that, his story was featured on Good Morning America.
Brian also gives some tips on holiday shopping, since that season is fast approaching.
It was great connecting with him again and I know this will be of great value to you. So, enjoy my chat with Brian Brandow.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41692199Mon, 02 Nov 2020 12:00:16 +0000TheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #69. Today we address something that some of us creatives may not want to deal with or talk about. Money and personal finance. I thought this would be helpful considering we all use money. Whether it’s to finance a business,...His name is Brain Brandow. We attended a TV/Video production course in our senior year at Brentwood High School. He would later come back to work as an assistant for that same course. He eventually went to work for Cablevision and actually helped me get a job there as well.
Brian started a family and of course, expenses increased. So did the debt. Before long, that debt swelled to $109,000. Brian and his family took action; reading books, changing their spending habits and their lifestyle. And in about 4 years, they were debt-free.
From all this, Brian was inspired to create Debt Discipline.com. Here he shares his story, personal finance tips and much more. He also decided to share his story and wisdom at various libraries and schools. Through collaboration, he was able to set up some financial literacy programs in various schools, classes K-12, throughout Long Island. Not only that, his story was featured on Good Morning America.
Brian also gives some tips on holiday shopping, since that season is fast approaching.
It was great connecting with him again and I know this will be of great value to you. So, enjoy my chat with Brian Brandow.]]>4026alexrudy,art,artist,artistmatters,arts,blog,blogger,brentwood,brianbrandow,creative,debt,debtdiscipline,finance,financialfreedom,hiatus,novembermovies,personalfinance,podcast,ramitsethi,snowballeffectcleanfullTheArtistMattersWelcome to episode #69. Today we address something that some of us creatives may not want to deal with or talk about. Money and personal finance. I thought this would be helpful considering we all use money. Whether it’s to finance a business, sell your art, get headshots, sell a script. Money is part of our lives. And I felt it was important for you to hear from someone who had massive debt and was able to get debt-free. And know you can too. His name is Brain Brandow. We attended a TV/Video production course in our senior year at Brentwood High School. He would later come back to work as an assistant for that same course. He eventually went to work for Cablevision and actually helped me get a job there as well. Brian started a family and of course, expenses increased. So did the debt. Before long, that debt swelled to $109,000. Brian and his family took action; reading books, changing their spending habits and their lifestyle. And in about 4 years, they were debt-free. From all this, Brian was inspired to create Debt Discipline.com. Here he shares his story, personal finance tips and much more. He also decided to share his story and wisdom at various libraries and schools. Through collaboration, he was able to set up some financial literacy programs in various schools, classes K-12, throughout Long Island. Not only that, his story was featured on Good Morning America. Brian also gives some tips on holiday shopping, since that season is fast approaching. It was great connecting with him again and I know this will be of great value to you. So, enjoy my chat with Brian Brandow.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/2020-recaphttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/42685324Mon, 28 Dec 2020 12:00:11 +0000TheArtistMattersHi, everyone. I'm back. This is it. The end of 2020. And I'm here to share how my year went and what I've experienced and learned. Enjoy, share and Happy New Year.33722020,50,art,artist,coronavirus,covid,creating,creativity,energy,energyvampires,podcast,podcasts,recap,recapping,reflecting,talking,theartistmatters,theyearofthemask,theyearthatwasn't,yearinreviewcleanfullTheArtistMattersHi, everyone. I'm back. This is it. The end of 2020. And I'm here to share how my year went and what I've experienced and learned. Enjoy, share and Happy New Year.Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tam-2021-mid-recaphttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/45318469Wed, 16 Jun 2021 02:14:10 +0000TheArtistMattersThe podcast is still alive. Just giving you updates on what's been going on since January. Enjoy!17932021,art,artist,artists,creative,death,engagement,etsy,fun,health,highs,june,living,lows,moirarose,movies,redbubble,theartistmatters,thearts,tvcleanfullTheArtistMattersThe podcast is still alive. Just giving you updates on what's been going on since January. Enjoy!Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/theartistmatters/tam-2021-final-recaphttps://api.spreaker.com/episode/48067472Mon, 27 Dec 2021 12:00:02 +0000TheArtistMattersWell, we've reached the end of 2021. Here's how the rest of my year concluded.26982021,art,artist,cat,childrensbook,comicbook,digitalart,endoftheyear,kidsbook,legacy,meowmeow,podcast,recap,superhero,theartistmatters,theartscleanfullTheArtistMattersWell, we've reached the end of 2021. Here's how the rest of my year concluded.No