Sandi Klein's Conversations with Creative Women: Recent Episodes
Sandi Klein
Conversations With Creative Women captures the fire, energy, humor, heart, soul and impact of the female creative experience.
I think it's fair to say that no one holds a candle to New Yorker Debra Rapoport. She always loved dressing up - studying textile design and creating textiles that are body coverings, not apparel. Many of her designs are wearable accessories or hats from re-purposed materials. We know you'll get a real kick meeting and getting to know this woman who marches to her own drummer!
Julia Daily 's out with novel #2 - The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch. It finds life-changing big time for Emma Rosales - heiress of a million acres of the largest estate in the Lone Star State. Turns out, Emma discovers folks living on the property. Julia's debut novel is, No Names to Be Given. As for her podcast, Julia's focuses on fiction writing by women during mid-life. And there are plenty.
Amal Ghandour has a lot on her mind. The author, historian, and memoirist lives in Beirut and writes about what the experience has been like. And…there’s plenty to talk about both personally and politically. Her book, This Arab Life: A Generation's Journey into Silence, draws from Amal's personal history, as well as larger political and cultural issues. Her riveting book shares what it means to be Arab in today's world - the feeling, for example, of being a tourist in her own country and craving connection with her culture, her family and herself. Needless to say, there's lots to talk about.
Lake Buckley is yet another award-winning, creative woman. Her clients include Google, What's App, Patagonia, and MTV, to name just a few. Her work has been described as “highly composed, conceptually sound, and delightfully strange.” Lake's goal is to find clients and collaborators who share similar synergies in order to make authentic and differentiated work. Does she? Tune in and find out!
Judy Mandel’s essays, short stories, and articles have been published here, there, and everywhere. Her first memoir, Replacement Child, made the NYT bestseller list. It’s followed by WHITE FLAG, which also focuses on the trauma that has plagued Judy’s family. This is one no holds barred, riveting, look into the lives of a family forced to confront and deal with nightmare after nightmare.
Elizabeth Ward Land is known for her standout roles on Broadway, most recently as a member of Sarah Silverman's off-Broadway musical, The Bedwetter. She's also been featured in numerous television and movie roles. Using her powerful and resonant voice, Elizabeth's new album, "Still Within the Sound of My Voice, - The Songs of Linda Ronstadt," is a powerful tribute to the 11-time Grammy-winning music legend, who was diagnosed with a medical condition that caused her to lose control of her vocal cords - effectively ending her singing career. With this album, Elizabeth pays homage to the incomparable Ms. Ronstadt. Elizabeth has plenty of stories to share, making for a fascinating conversation with this very talented entertainer.
Meet Emmy-nominated filmmaker and award-winning writer, Cynthia Lowen whose work uses the power of story to catalyze meaningful change and confront timely social issues. And to that end, her searing documentary 'Battleground,' penetrates the anti-abortion movement as never seen before. Completed before the recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v Wade, the film contains many surprises when it comes to those men, women, and children fighting to make abortion illegal. You won't want to miss our conversation with the passionate, committed award-winning filmmaker.
Raised in a small town in southern Poland, Zuzanna Surowy stars in the powerful film, My Name is Sara, despite having no acting experience and competing against 350 other hopefuls during an open casting call. My Name is Sara tells the true story of Sara Goralniak, who is Jewish and manages to escape after her family was murdered by the Nazis in 1942. She finds refuge in Ukraine, posing as a Christian, and lives with a farmer and his young family. The experience of making My Name is Sara, ignited within Zuzanna a passion for acting. She just completed her first year at the prestigious University of Gdansk film school. This is one 'blow you away' conversation with an engaging, self-assured, talented young woman.
Talk about a mouth-watering conversation! You're about to meet Johanne Killeen, who along with her late husband, opened the highly successful and respected Al Forno Restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island in 1980. It's credited with pioneering a number of recipes and is the birthplace of grilled pizza - pies flash grilled at high heat. The author of two popular cookbooks, Johanne has also mentored some of the most influential chefs in the business. She travels extensively working with food and wine producers and importers. So much to talk about with this culinary heavyweight.
A horrific car accident on Italy's Autostrata in 1989 left newly married Deborah Mellen, whose husband was not injured, with a severe spinal cord injury. Not only did she lose the use of her legs, but many other vital life functions were also impacted as well. Two years later Deborah's husband died, and she moved back to the States - Florida, to be exact. That's where a surgeon turned her on to Shake a Leg - an adaptive sailing and water sport center. Hooked, Deborah bought a wheelchair-accessible catamaran and eventually created the Impossible Dream, a non-profit organization that provides similar experiences for other wheel-bound men and women. This is one riveting, fascinating interview you won't want to miss!
Melanie Breault has been the Web and Social Media Specialist for Conversations with Creative Women since 2015. However, her professional life also includes social justice issues - supporting non-profit organizations as they build their profiles to expand their reach and make the world a better place. We cover a lot of ground in this honest and fascinating conversation. We know you'll feel the same after 'meeting and getting to know' this committed, passionate, engaging creative woman.
Raena Ashley spent a good part of her teenaged years getting in trouble while living in a tough East L.A. neighborhood. But all that changed when make-up entered the picture. When she was 18, Raena learned all about eyelash extensions. Three years later, she started her own beauty education company and in the years since, has generated more than 2 million dollars in sales, with 18 locations in the U.S. Raena has taught more than 2,000 young women 'the tricks of the trade.' Hear all about her path to a rich and rewarding lifestyle and career.
H.H. Leonards purchased the O Street Mansion 50 years ago as an art space, but the impact it had helping Rosa Parks is a story many may not know. Leonards got a call from Brother Willis Edwards of the Beverly Hills branch of the NAACP asking if Ms. Parks could stay in the mansion until she was able to heal emotionally and physically after being attacked in her Detroit home. Leonards, who said she didn't know who Parks was, agreed, and a beautiful 10+ year friendship between the two women was fostered. And to that end, Leonards has written "Rosa Parks, Beyond the Bus: Life Lessons and Leadership." This is truly one fascinating conversation that will simply blow your mind!
As far as Arriel Biggs is concerned, you're never too young to be exposed to entrepreneurship, financial literacy, philanthropy, and problem-solving skills. And to that end, she is the Founder and Executive Director of Young Biz Kids, a non-profit that teaches those skills and more to the leaders of tomorrow. Arriel has quite the personal story to share. Her 15-year-old son Mikey is an entrepreneur - his business sense kicked in when he acquired his first vending machine at the ripe old age of....7! Lots to learn from this conversation - so sit back and enjoy!
An award-winning filmmaker, Debbie Lum's projects give voice to the Asian/American experience and other unsung stories. Her documentary, TRY HARDER!, shines a light on San Francisco's iconic Lowell High School as it follows members of the senior class as they navigate the system and the pressure they feel applying to Ivy League colleges. It premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews and was broadcast on PBS' Independent Lens, along with a campaign to promote student health and AAPI stories. So much to talk about, so join us for one fascinating, eye opening conversation.
Author Anne Whitney Pierce is a lifelong Cantabrigian (it's an adjective that refers or pertains to Cambridge University in England, or in Anne's case, Cambridge, Massachusetts). The author of several books, her most recent, DOWN TO THE RIVER, references Harvard Square in the 60s. It follows the privileged Potts family who falls apart during the raging uncertainty of the times. Anne's short fiction has appeared in numerous magazines and reviews and has won several awards, including the Willa Cather Fiction Prize and a Barnes and Noble Great New Writers Award.
Warda Mohamed Abdullahi has one hell of a story to share and she does so in her powerful memoir, "Warda: My Journey from the Horn of Africa to a College Education." Her degree comes from a college in the U.S. How she got there is the basis of this riveting story told by a fierce young woman, who overcame endless obstacles to achieve her goals. We may say this often, but this is one conversation you shouldn't miss.
It's been a while, but former guest, Director Abby Epstein, is making a return appearance. Abby and Executive Producer Ricki Lake's latest collaboration, THE BUSINESS OF BIRTH CONTROL, examines the complex relationship between hormonal birth control and women's health and liberation. The documentary traces the feminist movement to investigate and expose the pill's risks alongside the racist legacy of hormonal contraception and its ongoing weaponization against communities of color. A lot to talk about? YOU BET!!
Born in Curacao and trained in the Netherlands, Gabri Christa is an accomplished filmmaker, curator, choreographer, performer and writer. She's passionate about social justice, multiculturalism and personal stories that have universal appeal. Gabri, who is also an Associate Professor of Professional Practice at Barnard College, conceived and curated MOVING BODY-MOVING IMAGE FESTIVAL, a biennial presentation of dance films that focus on issues of social justice. This year's program centers on The Moving Body with Disabilities. We know you'll enjoy our conversation with this engaging, passionate and committed creative woman.
Shirley Woodson made her artistic debut in 1960 and in the decades since, her brilliant and intensely colorful paintings have been exhibited here, there, and everywhere. And at 85, her first one-woman show at the prestigious Detroit Institute of Arts, which happens to be her hometown museum, is the talk of ‘the town.’ The solo exhibition, “Shield of the Nile Reflections,” focuses on the river’s importance to civilization. We are so excited for you to meet and get to know this fascinating, accomplished, engaging creative heavyweight.
You're about to meet multi-talented, accomplished, determined Vashti Cunningham. A track and field athlete specializing in the high jump, this young woman has her share of impressive stats and then some. An important part of her coaching help and support has come from her dad, Randall Cunningham, retired NFL quarterback, and her mom, Felicity de Jager Cunningham, a former member of the prestigious Dance Theater of Harlem. Athletics aside, Vashti manages to balance her career with her other passions: fashion design, modeling, and photography. It's safe to say, you're going to 'fall in love' with this warm, genuine, terrific creative woman!
Singer, songwriter Carol Lipnik weaves together folk, traditional pop, world music, and art into a unique hybrid. Acclaimed for her multi-octave range and original songs, The New York Times calls Carol an “ethereal vocal phenomenon,” and Michael Musto of Out Magazine wrote that she "is a wonderful amalgam of Joni Mitchell, Lotte Lenya, Theda Bara, and Stevie Nicks, but totally original." So sit back and enjoy our conversation with the eclectic and versatile Carol Lipnik.
Therese Shechter is an award-winning filmmaker/writer and founder of Trixie Films, a feminist production company that combines humor, activism, and personal storytelling to 'upend' what's considered sacred about motherhood. Her most recent film, "My So-called Selfish Life,' focuses on one of society's biggest taboos - women who choose not to become moms. Lots to talk about? You bet! So join us for this 'no holds barred conversation.
Expanding our world, pushing boundaries, indulging our curiosity - Katie Winter's passion and personal mission. And to that, Katie's flagship program, The Museum of Education Foundations, takes a holistic look at schooling, exploring it in ways that combine history, philosophy and art. It does so through the Winter School, a one-room schoolhouse in Lecompton, Kansas that has been in Katie's family since it was built in 1870. We cover a lot of ground in this fascinating and important conversation.
Crystal Berger is developing a product that makes it easier for digital platforms, local and national networks, and podcasters to discover, vet and book on-air talent. Her work has been featured on the FOX News Channel, Dr. Oz, and Trinity Broadcasting. She's the author of "Be Extraordinary: Claiming a Life of Purpose, Passion, and Prosperity. And that's not all. Crystal is the recipient of the NAACP's Freedom Fighter Award, UN Social Media Ambassador, and is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
Nix is an eighth-grader at R.J. Grey Junior High School in Acton/Boxborough, Mass. They participate in Destination Imagination with their STEM Team. Nix is also on the swim team. They are applying to a technical high school to pursue their interest in multimedia engineering. You're in for a 'tell it like it is' conversation with one engaging, bright, savvy 14 year old.
You're about to meet and get to know one of the foremost conductors of our time, who just happens to be, the first woman to serve as head of a major orchestra not only in the U.S., but South America, Austria, the U.K. Born into a musical family, Marin Alsop took violin lessons as a child and says she knew at age 9 that she wanted to be a conductor. She graduated from Juilliard and in the years since, spent 14 years as Music Director of the Baltimore Symphony; serves as Chief Conductor and Curator of Chicago's Ravinia Festival; Conductor of Honour of Brazil's Sao Paulo Symphony. The list is endless. Marin's also the subject of the documentary, THE CONDUCTOR, which debuted in 2021 at New York's Tribeca Film Festival. We know you'll enjoy meeting the internationally renowned Marin Alsop.
Deborah Feingold happens to be one of the world's most lauded, respected, iconic photographers. She's captured images of everyone from Mick Jagger, to Prince, to Madonna to Barack Obama to John Boehner, to Danny Meyer. Her work has appeared in The Village Voice, New York Times, Rolling Stone, Newsweek. Deborah's skill and talent putting her subjects at ease has resulted in the kind of rare moments of honesty and intimacy that have become the hallmark of her work. This creative woman has lots of stories to share, so sit back and enjoy one truly fascinating conversation.
Dance has been an integral part of Constance Stamatiou's life since she was a little girl. She began her training at Pat Hall's Dance Unlimited and the North Carolina Dance Theater in her home state. She eventually made her way East and was awarded a Fellowship at the Ailey School. A member of Ailey II, joined the Company in 2007...and rejoined in 2016. Constance has performed at the White House Dance Series, participated in a TED Talk with the brilliant Judith Jamison and has been a guest performer on several television shows. We can't wait for you to meet the charismatic, talented, engaging artist and mother of 2!
Lauren Hadaway is an LGBTQ+ writer/director with a background in sound editing and mixing, who has worked on a roster of films. Setting her sights higher, Lauren's debut feature, THE NOVICE, premiered at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival winning multiple awards. The film is a gritty, dark, coming-of-age story that follows a college freshman who joins her school's rowing team and obsessively pushes herself beyond her breaking point. You won't want to miss this honest, no-holding-back conversation with one helluva woman.
Renowned anchor and correspondent for ABC News, Diane Macedo covers breaking news and special events. She's appeared on Good Morning America, World News Tonight, Nightline, and hosts ABC News Live Update. She is also an author. A former insomniac, Diane's book, THE SLEEP FIX: Practical, Proven and Surprising Solutions for Insomnia, Snoring, Shift Work and More is must reading for those of us who struggle to fall and stay asleep. You won't fall asleep listening to our fascinating, important and fact filled conversation with this accomplished, creative woman.
We've had the honor and privilege of having another conversation with the very creative, innovative and multi-talented artist Dell Marie Hamilton. She's back to share her latest project for the ICA/Boston Foster Prize: "The End of Susan, The End of Everything." The multi-media installation is an homage to her mentor and friend, art historian Susan Decker who passed away in 2016. Join us for another fascinating, heartwarming and honest conversation with this very special guest.
Karen Mason makes music. The Broadway actress and concert artist is a 13-time MAC winner (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs), and in 2019 she received a MAC Lifetime Achievement Award. Karen has starred on Broadway, Off-Broadway, television, and has performed in concert as well as in the recording studio. Listen in as she shares the highlights of her rich and rewarding musical/theatrical career.
Amy Gravino in a word? Cando. A force of nature, Amy was diagnosed with autism at the age of 11 and is currently a leader on sexuality, autism, and neurodiversity in sex education. And to that end, she is President of ASCOT, which offers autism consulting, college coaching, and mentoring services for various organizations, schools, and individuals on the spectrum and their families. She's also an award-winning writer, has given TED Talks, and spoken at the UN on World Autism Awareness Day. You'll be blown away by this open, brutally honest, heartfelt conversation with a woman who's not afraid to speak her mind!
For Darsie Alexander, it's all about art. Since 2018, she has been Chief Curator at the Jewish Museum located on New York City's famed Museum Mile. Founded in 1904, it's the first institution of its kind in the US and one of the oldest Jewish Museums in the world. Darsie's resume is an impressive one: Executive Director of the Katonah Museum of Art, Chief Curator of the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, Senior Curator at the Baltimore Museum of Art and Photography Curator at Manhattan's Museum of Modern Art. Join us for a fascinating, illuminating conversation about the power of art to teach, provoke, bring joy and purpose to our lives.
With more than 25 years in the business, Geeta Gandbhir has worked on a wide range of films - narratives and documentaries focusing on racial justice, social inequity and gender. Geeta's the recipient of 2 Emmys, four Peabodys and numerous other accolades. "Black and Missing," her latest project for HBO, is a 4-part series that follows 2 sisters-in-law who are founders of the Black and Missing Foundation. The pair works to expose Black missing persons cases that are marginalized by national media and law enforcement. This must-see TV takes on new urgency given the renewed conversation about the 'missing white woman syndrome.'
A new Discovery+ series follows Roo Powell as she exposes some of the internet's most dangerous child predators. She and her team of professionals join forces with law enforcement to find and arrest these creeps. How? This 38 year old mother of 3 transforms herself into a 15 year old to reveal the true identities of the men who are reaching out to her. Join Roo in this race against time as she convincingly navigates these dangerous waters. This is one conversation you can't afford to miss.
Talk about a creative woman! Samantha Holmes is a sculptor / visual artist based in both the Bronx and Ravenna, Italy. Her work explores the impact of "distortion on patterns sourced from science, religion and art history." She works in stone, metal and paper, creating intricate, lace-like sculptures - her most recent, Mundillo - a monument to women's work and the cultural dynamism and was inspired by Puerto Rican lacework. Samantha's work has been exhibited in the States and internationally.
Award-winning journalist Erin Moriarty has spent the past 30+ years at CBS NEWS, and since 1990, as a correspondent on 48 Hours, TV's most popular true-crime series. A 9-time Emmy winner, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alliance for Women in Media in 2019. Erin's also the host of "My Life of Crime" podcast which focuses on many of the cases she's covered. We know you'll want to hear all about the life and times of this acclaimed, veteran correspondent.
New York-based Uli Beutter Cohen is the creator of Subway Book Review, a social movement that explores belonging to a time and place through writing and photography. Her work has been featured in Vogue, New York Magazine, Esquire, Glamour and The Guardian. Uli's first book, “Between the Lines: Stories From The Underground” (as in the NYC Subway System), is a love letter to books, The Big Apple, and our collective potential. Uli spent more than 10 years 'riding the rails,' observing, interviewing and photographing straphangers. We know you'll enjoy meeting this uniquely creative woman who clearly 'marches to her own drummer!'
Marissa Licata and the violin? Perfect together. She was given her first violin at the 'ripe old age' of three! And in the years since, Marissa's been making music - passionate, fiery, eclectic music. She's performed nationally and internationally with a Who's Who in the music world including: Alicia Keys, Gloria Estefan, Wyclef Jean, Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics. Marissa's also active in the orchestral and chamber music scene and has also performed with her all-star band, mixing traditional folk music from Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. We're more than excited for you to meet and get to know this talented, musical artist!
Sugar Hill Creamery. The name says it all. Harlem's first family-owned handmade ice cream shop opened its doors in 2017 and was followed 3 years later by a second location in Hamilton Heights. Sugar Hill is the brainchild of Petrushka Bazin Larsen and her husband Nick Larsen. Their confections include homemade, small batch ice cream, non-dairy frozen desserts with both seasonal and classic flavors. Petrushka's not only a successful entrepreneur, she's also a community activist, hosting programs for Sugar Hill customers and neighbors that include a New Mom's Group, Book Club and Craft Night.
Stephanie Lucianovic has lots of stories to tell. She's written a slew of books including, “The End of Something Wonderful: A Practical Guide to a Backyard Funeral”, “The League of Picky Eaters”, and “Hello Star”. This picture book was inspired by her son, who became very upset after learning at school that stars eventually explode as part of their life cycle. Stephanie talks about the importance of reaching out to children to give them stories they need to become whole again.
Kim Harris has been there, done that. She's the founder and managing partner of PAINTING IT RED, a New York-based event and marketing company. An affirmed "foodie," she's also consulted on restaurant openings in various U.S. cities. Kim also happens to be one of the 3 co-founders of HARLEM HOPS, the first 100% African/American owned craft beer bar located in... the heart of Harlem! Their goal? To be the first to bring incredible craft beers to an incredible neighborhood. Needless to say...mission accomplished. Hear all about that journey and so much more in our conversation with yet another fascinating, creative, visionary.
Lina Roessler, who has numerous film and tv credits to her name, makes her feature directing debut with BEST SELLERS, starring the legendary Sir Michael Caine, Aubrey Plaza, and Cary Elwes. It tells the story of an ambitious young woman, trying to find success in the shadow of her father's legacy running a thriving publishing company. She discovers she owns a book by the crotchety, reclusive, booze-addled author (Michael Caine) who originally put the company on the map years earlier. The two join forces in ways they least expected. Lots to talk about with Lina? You bet!
What's in a name? Plenty when you meet and get to know GLORY Crampton. A musical force to be reckoned with, she has appeared in more than 40 productions and can be heard on 14 Broadway cast and compilation recordings, including her sold-out performances with the National Symphony at London's Abbey Road Studios. As a global concert soloist, she was featured opposite opera great Jose Carreras of The Three Tenors. And, during the pandemic, Glory conceived and directed the award-winning PROJECT9 music video, which pays tribute to the Tony Award winning musical and features 16 actors, singers and dancers who were each filmed and recorded from their quarantined homes.
Born with Larsen Syndrome, a genetic physical disability, Emily Ladau is a wheelchair user. At the ripe old age of 10, she was featured on several episodes of Sesame Street to educate youngsters about living her life with this disorder. And she's been on that mission ever since. Emily's the author of "Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say and How to Be an Ally." Emily's also Editor-in-Chief of the Rooted in Rights blog, a platform highlighting the disability experience. This is clearly an important conversation we're excited to share!
Audio Transcript Available at SandiKleinShow.com
What hasn't Ava Thompson Greenwell accomplished? Since 1993, she's taught broadcasting, writing, reporting and producing at Medill/Northwestern University and has held several administrative positions. In addition to her Bachelor and Masters degrees in journalism, Ava has a Phd in African American Studies. She directed and produced "Mandela in Chicago," a documentary about the city's anti-apartheid movement. Ava is also the author of "Ladies Leading: The Black Women Who Control Television News." The book goes 'behind the camera' to document the racism and sexism in television networks and explores the history and experience of Black Women who achieved management positions. So much to talk about with this professional powerhouse!
Owner Betsy Lay, along with partners Kate Power and Jen Cuesta, are the co-founders of Lady Justice Brewing, based in Aurora, Colorado. The three met while working at AmeriCorps VISTA. In 2014, they joined forces and their community-focused brewery was born. Its mission? - "brewing great beer to make the world a better place." And to that end, Lady Justice gives money to nonprofits and community partners that support and empower women and girls in the state of Colorado. Join us for our conversation with this creative woman whose mission is all about 'giving back.'
Ann Hu's's personal story would make for a great bio pic. Knowing no one, she was among the first students to come to the U.S. from mainland China after the Cultural Revolution to attend college. After graduating from NYU, she made her mark in the business world, but eventually wound up switching gears. In 1992, she took courses at NYU's Film School and in the years since has directed four features. Her latest, CONFETTI, offers a window into Asian/American immigrant life and is based on Ann's personal experiences. It is a powerful, passionate and timely story. And speaking of stories, Ann has many to share during our time together.
The recipient of several prestigious honors, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and a Sundance Screenwriting and Directing Fellowship, Tracy Droz Tragos' work focuses on issues involving women, inequality, rural America, and education. Her latest film, "The Smartest Kids in the World," based on the New York Times bestseller, focuses on the crisis in U.S. high school education. It chronicles a year abroad of four American teenagers. Join us as Tracy shares her passion for cinematic story-telling.
Author, activist and former kindergarten teacher, Nyasha Williams - who was adopted into a trans-racial family - grew up in South Africa and the U.S. A former kindergarten teacher and author, her picture book, "I Affirm Me: The ABCs of Inspiration for Black Kids" was inspired by the words Nyasha and her students recited at the beginning of every day: "I am confident and capable. I learn at my own pace. I am loved, and I believe in me. I believe in us." Nyasha is pursuing social justice, decolonizing work and creating for her community full-time. You won't want to miss this fascinating conversation.
New York Times bestselling author Emily Lockhart of "We Were Liars" has written children's picture books, young adult novels, and adult fiction. "Genuine Fraud," was also a Times bestseller and LA Times Book Prize finalist and her novel, "The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks" was a National Book Award finalist. Emily's latest work, "Whistle: A New Gotham City Hero," is a graphic novel about a Jewish teenage activist who gets superpowers and infiltrates the city's criminal underworld. Lots to talk about? You bet!
Christina Fontana has been a force in the film and tv industry for more than two decades. She was an editor on documentaries and unscripted tv projects for Fox, NBC, CBS, Netflix, A&E, The History Channel to name a few, and received an Emmy nomination for her work on The Amazing Race. Christina makes her directorial debut with "Relentless," a 6-episode true crime series that tells the story of 21-year-old Christina Wittaker, who disappeared from her home town of Hannibal, Missouri. Using more than 400 hours of footage, "Relentless" also chronicles the journey of a filmmaker who becomes dangerously caught up in the story she's telling.
Jess deCourcy Hinds is a fiction/nonfiction writer and founding library director of the Bard H.S. Early College in Queens, N.Y. A New York Times Modern Love columnist, her writing has also appeared in Newsweek, Ms. Magazine, Literary Hub and Quarterly West. Jess, a queer feminist, is completing a novel about bisexual and sexually fluid graffiti artists in post-9/11 New York. Check out her website and sign up for her newsletter, I'm an Open Book: On Libraries, Love and Life-Building. A lot to talk about?? You bet!
Raising awareness for the mental health of student athletes, while confronting the stigma within the world of sports is the mission of The Hidden Opponent. Chief Operating Officer Leeann Passaro is more than familiar with the pressures of competing. She's a former student-athlete at a Division 3 school who struggled with anxiety and depression. You won't want to miss this timely, honest, no-holds barred conversation.
For more than 30 years, Evetta Petty has designed hats in her uptown Manhattan shop and studio. Her creations have graced the heads of men and women: runway models, actors, churchgoing seniors. They've been worn to the Kentucky Derby and England's Royal Ascot. Evetta's hats have appeared in movies, television, fashion magazine covers and articles. Her hats have humor, whimsy, rhythm and fantasy… just like their designer!
As a Speech-Language Pathologist, Christina Hunger works with both children and adults, teaching them to use Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices, or AACs to express themselves non-verbally. However, humans aren't her only clients. In 2018, when Christina brought her new puppy home, she had an epiphany - one that she shares in her book, "How Stella Learned to Talk." Since dogs can understand words, why couldn't Stella use an AAC device to express herself?? And she has! You really won't want to miss this fascinating, engaging, captivating conversation about Stella, the world's first talking dog!
How to describe Cynthia Kaplan? Let us count the ways: author, musician, songwriter, actress, producer, co-host. Called a 'young Dorothy Parker' by the New York Times, her credits include 2 acclaimed books of comic essays. She's acted in numerous plays and several films and... composes and sings hilarious songs, performing with her band, The Cynthia Kaplan Ordeal. There's plenty to talk about with this multi-talented, engaging, creative woman.
Betty Yu combines film, new media platforms and community-infused approaches in her work. A tireless promoter of social justice initiatives, she is a co-founder of Chinatown Art Brigade, a cultural collective which uses art to oppose gentrification in the New York City neighborhood, resulting in the loss of affordable housing and mass displacement. Join us for an eye-opening and inspiring conversation with this passionate, committed activist-artist.
We are simply thrilled to welcome Anne Geddes to the CWCW family. Australian-born, New York City based, Anne, has the distinction of being one of the world's most recognized photographers. She is best known for her elaborately staged photos of infants, capturing the purity, beauty and vulnerability of her young subjects. Anne's body of work, which includes 7 award winning coffee table books, calendars, greeting cards and journals, has been published in 84 countries and translated into 24 languages. Anne was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame and is a Global Advocate for Children, advocating for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
She’s back...and we couldn’t be more excited! So much has happened in the life of Yilian Canizares since our first conversation a while ago. This multi-talented violinist, vocalist and composer makes beautiful music by artfully blending jazz, classical music and her Afro-Cuban roots with her unique voice. She’s also an artist with a social conscience and to that end, has been invited to perform during the United Nations World Oceans day on June 8, 2021. For this very special occasion, Yilian will perform Yemaya, her own composition, which pays tribute to the West African Goddess of the Sea. Sit back and enjoy another powerful conversation with this classy, committed, creative woman!
Kimberly Greenbergim has been dubbed the "go-to-gal" for Fanny Brice, the legendary Jewish comedienne, stage and movie star, and the inspiration for the hit film, Funny Girl. Kim's solo show, "Fabulous Fanny: The Songs & Stories of Fanny Brice," has been playing across the country for 9 years and is now streaming on the STELLAR platform. She has performed across the U.S. in national tours, Off-Broadway, Off-Off Broadway, regional theater, and cabarets and also happens to be one of the Top 10 Performing Arts Coaches.
Ladies and Gentlemen: Meet Jo Weldon! A pioneer/authority in the neo-burlesque movement, she is one of the most recognized burlesque instructors in the world. Jo founded the New York School of Burlesque in 2004 after spending some 30 years stripping, modeling and being immersed in queer-punk movements. She's the author of The Burlesque Handbook and Fierce: The History of Leopard Print. Jo's Sex Worker Style project addresses fashion, gender, stigmatization and the policing of feminized bodies. We can't wait for you to meet this ballsy, talented, classy mover and shaker!
Professor, activist, author, editor, Johanna Fernandez, PhD, teaches 20th Century U.S. History and the history of social movements at Baruch College City University of New York. Her book, “The Young Lords: A Radical History,” chronicles the Puerto Rican counterpart to the Black Panther Party. Dr. Fernandez filed a freedom of Information lawsuit against the New York Police Department, which led to the recovery of the largest repository of police surveillance records in the country, including those of Malcolm X. You can't afford to miss our 'no holds barred' conversation with this passionate, accomplished, inspirational 'force of nature.'
New York-based Brazilian jewelry designer Cristina Duarte Veronese is a force to be reckoned with. Her one-of-a-kind, innovative, geometrically-designed earrings, necklaces, pins, rings, and bracelets in sterling silver and gold jewelry combine all aspects of today's changing lifestyles. Created and produced in her Brooklyn studio, Cristina's jewelry is on display at Studio duArte, her store in Manhattan's East Village.
Jane Monheit makes beautiful music. Acclaimed as one of the quintessential jazz/pop vocalists of her generation, she has performed here, there and everywhere and has collaborated with Michael Buble, Wynton Marsalis, John Pizzarelli and Ramsey Lewis. Jane's newest album,"Come What May," (available through Club44 Records), celebrates her 20th year as a top recording artist. We know you're going to love Jane....come what may!
Gina Barreca is truly a force of nature. She's written 10 books, edited 11 others, and her work has been translated into several languages. Her latest - FAST FUNNY WOMEN - is a collection of 75 nonfiction essays written by women ages 20 to 89 and includes a whole host of accomplished females. Gina's been featured on CNN, PBS, 20/20, 48 Hours, The Today Show, Oprah and was interviewed for the highly acclaimed PBS series for its profile of Mae West. A full-time academic, Gina teaches at the University of Connecticut and is an honoree of the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame. It won't take long for you to become a big GB fan!
Activist, Certified Life Coach, Professional Astrologer. It's not often these professions are part of the same resume, but they all describe Tracey Rogers. We cover a lot of ground in this wide-ranging conversation: from Tracey's tireless commitment to combat racial injustice and gender inequality, to learning how astrology can empower us to live empowered lives. This is one CWCW you cannot miss!
Artist, sculptor, weaver, print maker, quilter, performance artist, lecturer, educator, MacArthur Fellowship recipient, Joyce Scott is all of the above! Well known for her work in jewelry, glass, and beadwork, she has been called the "Queen of Beadwork." Joyce is renowned for her social commentary on issues such as racism, classism, sexism, violence and cultural stereotypes. Her work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions all over. Join us for a no-holds barred, fascinating conversation with this 'force of nature.'
Creative girls usually grow up to be creative women and we're betting that's exactly what's in store for Abby Ackerman. The 4th grader has her own podcast, PW KIDS 11050, which includes the zip code of her Long Island, New York town. When Abby's not in school or interviewing, she enjoys cooking, playing sports, video games, reading, hanging with her friends and 'fighting' with her twin sister and younger brother. We guarantee you'll come away from this conversation, blown away by this engaging, funny, self-assured dynamo!
Creativity is what Whitney Bolster's all about. She's the Founder and CEO of Ampersand, a female-led, mission-driven creative brand agency. And as such, Ampersand is, "defying the odds merely by existing and is dedicated to making space for more women to get involved in the industry. The female perspective is gaining on the world and we are here for it." Who could argue with that? Lots to talk about with mover and shaker Whitney Bolster!
Barely in her 20s, Ruby Locknar has a lot of creative credits to her name. She's an actor, technical director, and podcast host. Her theater credits include a national tour with TheaterWorks USA, multiple recordings with Kristen Chenoweth and Alice Cooper, among others. Ruby's technical production work includes "Jim Caruso's Pajama Cast Party," and "Virtual Halston" with actress Julie Halston, for which she won a BroadwayWorld Award for Best Producer of a Virtual Program. We know you're going to really enjoy meeting this engaging, enthusiastic, classy lady!
Beth Lipman is a contemporary artist who works in glass and is renowned for her sculptural compositions which, in her words, "explore aspects of material culture and deep time through still lives, site-specific installations and photographs." The recipient of numerous awards, Beth has exhibited her work at Manhattan's Museum of Art and Design, the Smithsonian, Milwaukee Art Museum and RISD Museum, to name just three. We know you'll really enjoy meeting this talented, creative, original artist.
What does it mean to be Black and Buddhist in our today's world? Cheryl Giles, licensed clinical psychologist and Senior Lecturer on Pastoral Care and Counseling at Harvard Divinity School knows first hand. She's one of the editors of and contributors to "Black & Buddhist - What Buddhism Can Teach Us About Race, Resilience, Transformation and Freedom." It's the first anthology of writings by African/American Buddhists. Cheryl's personal story, "They Say The People Could Fly," is powerful, moving and inspiring. And...so is our candid conversation.
Award-winning journalist, director, producer, author - all part of Caren Zucker's resume. As a producer for ABC's World News and Nightline, Caren has covered economic summits, presidential campaigns, the Olympics and so much more. She has now directed her first documentary, "In a Different Key,' a narrative history of autism. The project, which followed the PBS Newshour series, "Autism Now," was inspired by her son's diagnosis of the disease. Caren takes us on her personal journey in a conversation you can't afford to miss.
Angie Durrell makes beautiful music and encourages others to do so too. The Ecuadorian-born violinist, educator and social entrepreneur is the Founder and Executive Director of INTEMPO, an inter-cultural organization whose goal is to make classical music and native instruments relevant, accessible and inclusive. Tune in to learn how and get to know this accomplished, passionate, creative woman!
Talk about accomplished! Award-winning journalist Jennifer Trainer has written 19 books that have been translated into 10 languages. She's the chef/creator of "Jump and Kiss Me," an all-natural line of spicy foods. Jennifer also happens to be one of the co-founders of MASS MoCA, which in 2017, became the largest museum of contemporary art in the world. The transformation from a massive factory to storied museum in North Adams, Massachusetts, is the subject of the documentary, MUSEUM TOWN, which by the way, marks Jennifer's directing debut. She is currently the director of the Hancock Shaker Village Museum in Hancock, Mass. Needless to say there's plenty to talk about!
For the last podcast of the year, we are revisiting our conversation with Heather Booth. Heather is a force to be reckoned with and that’s a very good thing! She is one of the country’s leading strategists when it comes to progressive issue campaigns and driving issues in elections. Heather’s organizing and commitment to social justice began during the civil rights, anti-Vietnam War and women’s movements of the 1960s. She also started JANE, an underground abortion service in 1965 before Roe v Wade became law. We cover a lot of territory in this open, honest, impactful conversation with a compassionate, committed woman.
Promoting and supporting gender equality in the wine world. That's been the mission of Sommelier Rania Zayyat. A leader in the global wine industry, Rania is the founder of Wonder Women of Wine, a non-profit created to do just that. She's also the founder Be The Change, an equal opportunity initiative committed to changing the status quo through action and policy. Lots to talk about - so pour yourself a glass of Chardonnay and join us for a fascinating, eye opening and engaging conversation.
It's not often we see a woman's name next to the title: Head of Development and Production. But that's exactly what Jessica Harrop does for Sandbox Films, a new mission-driven documentary company. An Emmy-nominated filmmaker in her own right, Jessica has dedicated her career to making movies that inspire passion about science. Her passion is contagious and we know you'll be inspired by this accomplished, committed, creative woman.
It's no surprise that there are far fewer women conductors than there are men. HOWEVER, the times, they are a changin.' Women are cracking that glass ceiling and while the percentage is small, it only serves to encourage other women to pick up the baton. One of those women is Kalena Bovell, Assistant Conductor - Memphis Symphony Orchestra. She has an impressive resume, having worked at the Civic Orchestra of New Haven, the Hartford and St. Louis Symphonies. Join us as Kalena shares her love, passion and joy for making beautiful music.
Ann Farmer writes...a lot. An independent journalist and longtime contributor to Emmy magazine, Ann's profiled actors, tv writers, directors and producers. She also spent 10 years with The New York Times covering crime and breaking news. Ann's articles have appeared in the Village Voice, Dance Magazine, the DGA Quarterly and the American Bar Association's Perspectives Magazine. She researched, wrote and produced Lock and Key, a criminal justice show that aired on Court TV. Clearly, there's plenty to talk about with this very prolific, accomplished and creative woman.
Director, screenwriter, producer, instructor - all describe Tanzanian-American filmmaker Ekwa Msangi, who divides her time between Kenya and New York. Her latest project and first feature film, is the award-winnIng and critically acclaimed FAREWELL AMOR. It tells the story of an Angolan immigrant, whose wife and daughter join him in the States after a 17year separation. It is powerful, emotional, life-affirming. Ekwa's goal as an artist is "to transform our society's images and relationships with African cultures and to empower African filmmakers in telling their stories." Join us as Ekwa, direct from Nairobi, shares her story.
Afa Dworkin is passionate about promoting diversity in classical music and does so as President and Artistic Director of The Sphinx Organization. It supports a national roster of distinguished musicians of color and reaches more than 2 million people worldwide. Its network has grown to more than 60 symphony orchestras. An accomplished violinist, Afa is a recipient of Kennedy Center's Human Spirit Award and was named one of Musical America's Top 30 Influencers. We're excited for you to meet and get to know this talented, committed musical mover and shaker!
Meeting and getting to know so many creative women got me to thinking: why not start a bit younger - really younger? And so… I reached out to a pair of creative girls who I know very well: Ella and Clara Klein, my 7-1/2 and 5-1/2 year old granddaughters! Creativity is second nature to these two. They love to paint, draw, work with clay, make their own pinatas, read, write their own stories and plays, and work on special projects with their very creative parents. So join me for CWCW's first ever conversation with the 'younger set.'
This is a first for me - having a conversation with a creative woman in Moscow! Inna Blokhina, a journalist who worked at several major Russian television networks, also happens to be a filmmaker. She formed her own company, "Inwaves Production," and in 2012 completed her first full-length documentary, ON THE WAVE. Believe it or not....it's all about...surfing in the Soviet Union! Who knew? That was followed by her latest film, the award-winning SHE IS THE OCEAN. It follows 9 women from around the world, whose profound love for the ocean, is the 'tie that binds.' Plenty to talk about with this female force of nature!
Kate Hackett is another creative woman whose career involves the big screen. She happens to be an Emmy winner for her editing expertise on the Netflix series, CHEER, which chronicles the high stakes cheerleaders face. Her editing credits include the Emmy winning series, LAST CHANCE U and the Sundance documentary HALF THE PICTURE. Kate has directed art films for large screen concerts and her latest project, OLEANDER, is a short about a sexually active teen who wages a social media war against her Christian abstinence program. Kate plans to make OLEANDER into a full length feature.
Author, journalist, public speaker, educator, world traveler, musician - all describe Dori Jones Yang. Dori's written 7 books - her most recent, WHEN THE RED GATES OPENED, marks her first memoir. It follows her 8 year stint as a foreign correspondent for BusinessWeek. She was one of the first Americans to cover China during the tumultuous 1980s - when its leaders allowed private enterprise and free markets - but also when a million peaceful protestors filled Tiananmen Square demanding democracy. This is one riveting, uplifting, fascinating conversation you won't want to miss!
Eva Noblezada took Broadway by storm several years before being named one of the honorees of Forbes Magazine's prestigious 30 under 30 list for 2020. At the 'ripe old' age of 17, Eva was cast as Kim, the lead in the 2014 and 2017 revivals of MISS SAIGON, for which she earned her first Tony nomination for Best Actress in a musical. Tony nomination #2 was for her performance as the Eurydice in the hit musical HADESTOWN. And now, Eva's impressive list of credits includes the big screen. She makes her film debut in YELLOW ROSE - which follows a Filipino teenager in Texas, determined to pursue dreams of becoming a country music star. We cover a lot of ground in this open, honest, no holds barred conversation!
Haroula Rose wears many hats: singer/songwriter, director, producer. Her big screen directorial debut, ONCE UPON A RIVER, (she also wrote the screenplay), was named one of the 'most anticipated films' by Filmmaker Magazine. Haroula's resume also includes short films and documentaries. When she's not writing or directing, Haroula makes music - her songs can be heard in films, tv series and commercials. Needless to say, lots to talk about with this multi-talented, creative woman.
Chef, culinary entrepreneur, activist - just three of the hats worn by Ashley Rouse. She also happens to be the founder of Brooklyn-based Trade Street Jam Company, a minority and woman-certified batch jam company. Ashley creates fruit forward and clean tasting vegan jams that are low in sugar, but high in flavor. A few enticing samples: Blueberry-Lemon- Basil Jam, Smoked Yellow Peach, Strawberry-Chipolte-Fig. Join us for this mouth watering conversation with yet another creative woman.
Lena Olin is one accomplished, celebrated, respected actress, considered the greatest to come to the States from Sweden since Ingrid Bergman. While still in drama school, she made her on-screen debut in Ingmar Bergman's "Face to Face," and continued working with him both on stage and film. Lena made her English language film debut in "The Unbearable Lightness of Being." That led to other well-known films including "Chocolat," directed by her husband Lasse Hallstrom. Nominated for several acting awards, Lena's latest project is "The Artist's Wife," co-starring Bruce Dern. We know you'll so enjoy meeting and getting to know this terrific, creative woman!
You're about to meet and get to know one helluva woman! 75-year-old Gloria Allen is a transgender woman who grew up in the 50s and 60s on Chicago's South Side and transitioned from George to Gloria after high school, but obviously before the Stonewall Uprising. Her story is riveting, empowering, inspirational. Case in point - while in her 60s, Gloria started a charm school for homeless trans youth - hence the 'Mama.' And....Mama Gloria is the title of a documentary (directed by former CWCW guest Luchina Fisher) that chronicles the life of this amazing woman. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!
Selene Castrovilla lives in the past...and that's a good thing! Her work focuses on exposing the concealed truths about our nation's history, including the impactful and poignant way women contributed to the making of America. There's a lot to learn in this fascinating look back with this accomplished author and educator.
We are revisiting our conversation with Yilian Cañizares, a truly fascinating, unique, multi-talented violinist, vocalist and composer who makes beautiful music by artfully blending jazz, classical and her Afro-Cuban roots with her unique voice. Yilian’s songs range from the poignant to the exuberant. Her warmth, enthusiasm and honesty are palpable and….contagious. You’ll be hooked!
Maria Loi? A force of nature! She's a celebrity Chef, Restaurateur, Cookbook Author, Greek Food Ambassador, Author, Social Activist, Philanthropist. Did we whet your appetite? Tune in and meet this amazing, creative, accomplished dynamo!
Simply put, Dr. Kathryn Anthony is a powerhouse! As Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture Distinguished Professor of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, she's its longest serving female faculty member. Dr. Anthony has written for numerous publications and is the author of 5 books, including Designing for Diversity: Gender, Race and Ethnicity in the Architectural Profession. And...she also happens to be the Vice President of the American Restroom Association. COVID109 has forced experts to rethink the designs of public spaces, which obviously includes the most private of those spaces. This is one fascinating, eye-opening and important conversation you won't want to miss.
When it comes to living her life, nothing seems to stand in Ashley Lyn Olson's way. At 14, a horrific car accident killed her father, crippled her mother, injured her younger sister and left Ashley paralyzed. Her physical limitations didn't stop her from seeing the world. And...in 2006, she founded wheelchairtraveling.com, a resource for people with disabilities. The site averages 25,000 monthly visits and its 70+ videos have been viewed half a million times. You'll want to meet this passionate, ballsy, determined, young woman.
Sara Bernstein is Executive Vice President at Imagine Documentaries, the documentary division of Ron Howard and Brian Grazer's Imagine Entertainment. Her latest project, REBUILDING PARADISE for National Geographic and directed by Howard, chronicles the devastating firestorm that ravaged the city of Paradise, California in 2018. Before joining Imagine, Sara was Senior Vice President at HBO Documentary Films. Needless to say, we cover a lot of ground with this 'cinematic' producing powerhouse!
Talk about a creative woman! Jessica Swale fits that bill and then some. Her first play, Blue Stockings, premiered at Shakespeare's Globe in 2013. Then came Nell Gwynn, which won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. Jessica is making her feature film debut with the newly released period drama, Summerland. She also wrote the screenplay. We know you'll enjoy meeting this accomplished, passionate, fascinating woman.
Talk about mouth-watering! You're in for a special treat, courtesy of New York City-based entrepreneur and chocolatier, Milene Jardine. Sold on line, at boutiques, and corporate gifting/pairing events, fans of Milene's confectionary creations include Hillary Clinton, Warren Buffet, Sting and the reknown chefs Marc Forgione and Dominque Crenn. Inspired by her travels, Milene Jardine Chocolatier's vision is celebrating diversity through chocolate. Makes sense to us!
There's no doubt you're really going to enjoy meeting and getting to know this very creative woman who's been sharing her observations about culture and politics for forty years. The author of 16 books, Liza's also a public speaker, curator, activist - in other words, one committed, creative, accomplished woman.
The Harvey Weinstein and Jeffrey Epstein case, Super Storm Sandy, Macy's Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade - Juliet Papa has covered these stories and so many more in her long and illustrious career at 1010WINS. Join us as Juliet shares what it's like to be a 'front line reporter' at the nation's premier all news radio station.
We're excited for you to meet and get to know actress Lilli Cooper, whose rich resume includes Broadway, Off-Broadway and television. While still in high school, Lilli made her debut on The Great White Way, as part of the original cast of "Spring Awakening." For her most recent role as Julie Nichols in the Broadway hit, "Tootsie," (based on the 1982 Dustin Hoffman movie), she received her first Tony nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical. Sit back and enjoy our conversation with the engaging, warm, and clearly talented Lilli Cooper!
It's hard to imagine there's anyone who hasn't heard of Sesame Street. You're about to meet and get to know one of the driving forces behind this iconic, beloved and groundbreaking television series. Rosemarie Truglio, PhD, is Senior Vice President of Curriculum and Content at Sesame Workshop, and to that end, oversees content development for television, publishing, toys, home video and theme park activities as well as new show production. Her recently published book Ready for School and the documentary, No Small Matter, take a long, hard look at early childhood education. This is another conversation you can't afford to miss.
With the world in such turmoil, who better to navigate these troubled waters with, than past guest, Nancy Giles? You're in for a powerful, honest and yes, hopeful conversation with the award-winning actress, voice-over artist, comedienne, writer and longtime CBS Sunday Morning contributor.
You might not recognize her face, but it's more than likely that you've heard her voice. Maria Pendolino is an accomplished, award winning voiceover actor who has commercials, narrations, e-learning, animation, and video game credits on her extensive resume. She also happens to be the founder of BLUE WAVE VOICEOVER, a collective of professionals who represent the diversity that is the U.S. and who are a 'voice' for change in 2020 and beyond. Needless to say, we cover a lot of ground with this very talented, creative and inspiring woman!
Born and raised in the Lone Star State, Candice Marie Woods left Texas for the Great White Way. The talented singer/actress currently plays Diana Ross in AIN'T TOO PROUD, the hit musical about the life and times of The Temptations. Candice has quite a few Broadway credits to her name, including: HAIRSPRAY, CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT AND THE BOOK OF MORMON. We're excited for you to meet and get to know this warm, engaging, creative woman!
A nationally recognized expert on issues pertaining to the LGBTQ community, Gearah Goldstein works tirelessly to focus and highlight the importance of creating dialogue on race, gender, ethnicity, acceptance and understanding. Her transgender life experience encourages a positive learning environment that opens hearts and minds. This is truly a conversation no one can afford to miss!
Meet Linden Reed, Behavior Specialist and....Strongwoman Athlete! She's competed in more than 20 competitions, 6 at the national level. She's also represented the US as a Middleweight at the Arnold (as in Schwarzenegger) from 2016-2019 and at the Official Strongman Games in 2020. Join us as Linden shares her fitness journey from Bikram yoga to Crossfit to serious weight training.
She's baaack! And we're delighted to share another conversation with the very creative and accomplished Ferne Pearlstein. While we catch up on Ferne's latest projects, we also focus on her 2016 feature film, THE LAST LAUGH, which is all about finding humor in a crisis seen through the lens of the Holocaust. As we try to deal with and wrap our heads around the COVID-19 nightmare, many have been connecting to THE LAST LAUGH, to help us cope with this crisis and, for that matter, this new normal. There's lots to talk about in this open, frank, and yes, upbeat conversation.
The power of documentaries to educate, expose, inspire and empower is certainly not lost on filmmaker Nesa Azimi. She has worked on more than a dozen such films while on staff as a producer at Rain Media/PBS Frontline, Al Jazeera America, National Geographic and the Cine Institute of Haiti. DRIVER, Nesa's latest project, follows the community of women who work as long-haul truckers and the obstacles/challenges they routinely encounter. Join us as we go 'behind the scenes' with yet another creative woman.
Simply put, Sara Gould is a powerhouse! A committed, tireless advocate for social justice, Sara's a past President and CEO of the Ms. Foundation for Women. She's also the Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Immigration Law Center. Sara co-founded and co-directed the Steinem Initiative at Smith College, a pilot program that focuses on using women's and gender history as an organizing tool to empower current social justice movements. There's more! So join us for one inspiring conversation!
Here comes another accomplished, creative, woman. Nora McInerny is an author, humorist, podcast host, founder of the non-profit, Still Kickin'. Her most recent novel, BAD MOMS, is based on the 2016 blockbuster movie of the same. Her memoirs, IT'S OKAY TO LAUGH and NO HAPPY ENDINGS, chronicle 2014, when in the span of just 6 weeks, she had a miscarriage, her father died of cancer and her husband succumbed to a brain tumor. Plenty to talk about??? You bet!
In these unprecedented times, who better to have a conversation with then a Certified Grief Counselor? Claudia Coenen, who has a Masters in Transpersonal Psychology, is the author of 2 books: "The Creative Toolkit for Working with Grief and Bereavement: A Practitioner's Guide" and - "Shattered by Grief: Picking up the Pieces to Become Whole Again." Claudia has also developed Karuna Cards, which provide creative ways to deal with grief and difficult life decisions. This is truly a conversation that none of us can afford to miss.
We know you're going to enjoy 'meeting' actress Cait Cortelyou, star of ASK FOR JANE, who also happens to be the creator and producer of this award-winning, indie movie. It's based on the true story of an underground abortion network that began on the campus of the University of Chicago in the 1960s. On the small screen, Cait made her debut in the Emmy Award-winning series "The Knick," and has appeared on the CBS hit "Bull." She was also part of the cast of the Off-Broadway's "Sleep No More," and is a member of the Leadership team of The Shelter, a long-running indie theater company in New York City.
Award-winning writer, director, producer - all three apply to Luchina Fisher. She began her career as a journalist, has co-authored and ghost-written several books, has written and produced several national televised documentaries, and the critically acclaimed feature documentary, BIRTHRIGHT: A WAR STORY. Luchina is also directing, MAMA GLORIA. It tells the story of a 74 year old transgender woman who started a charm school for homeless transgender youth. Join us for an emotional, honest, powerful conversation with this talented woman.
Talk about a creative woman! June Millington, who Guitar Play Magazine called "one of the hottest female guitarists in the industry," has been a force in the music world since the 60s. Her band Fanny, was one of the first all women's rock bands to be signed to a major label (Reprise). Fanny played with such major artists as Chicago, BB King, the Kinks, Ike & Tina Turner to name just a few - showing that women could do more than just sing - they could write and play passionate rock 'n' roll. We cover a lot of history - in this wide-ranging, fascinating conversation!
For Colleen Thomas it's all about movement and communication. A New York-based choreographer and performance artist, her company Colleen Thomas Dance has presented its work in Hong Kong, Estonia, Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Russia and of course New York City. Colleen, whose work often focuses on women and human perception and perspective, is also a Full Professor of Professional Practice and Manhattan's Barnard College.
It's not often a woman's name appears next to the director credit. However, that's not the case when it comes to Elizabeth Williamson. Not only does she have a long list of credits to her name, Elizabeth also happens to be the Associate Artistic Director at Hartford Stage. And...she's also a dramaturg and theatrical literary advisor, who researches, adapts and interprets scripts, which she did for the Tony Award winning musical, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, The Flamingo Kid at Hartford, The Inheritance at the Young Vic/West End and many more. There's a lot to talk about in this conversation with such an accomplished, passionate, creative woman.
Min Jung Kim's passion for and commitment to the art world is a rich and rewarding one. She happens to be the Director and CEO of Connecticut's 118 year old New Britain Museum of American Art, the oldest such museum in the country. Min has developed a series of exhibitions aimed at expanding the definition of American Art while reaching and engaging a broad and diverse audience. You'll want to listen as Min takes us on both her personal and professional journeys.
You are about to meet and get to know Yilian Canizares, a truly fascinating, unique, multi-talented violinist, vocalist and composer who makes beautiful music by artfully blending jazz, classical and her Afro-Cuban roots with her unique voice. Yilian's songs range from the poignant to the exuberant. Her warmth, enthusiasm and honesty are palpable and....contagious. You'll be hooked!
Breanna Sinclaire's life is the stuff operas are written about. She happens to be the only operatic soprano in the world who is transgender. Born in Baltimore, Breanna made her way west - graduating from the California Institute of the Arts where she earned a BFA and where her transition began. There were some very dark days following graduation and her acceptance to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she earned an MFA. Breanna was the first transwoman in the opera program. She made her debut with the San Francisco Symphony on New Year's Eve. 3 years earlier, Breanna sang the National Anthem at an Oakland A's baseball game before a crowd of 30,000. There's no way you won't be impacted by Breanna's extraordinary journey to find her true, authentic self.
Until relatively recently, the profession of intimacy coordinator in film and theater was virtually non-existent. But in the years since #MeToo, it's become much more in demand. You're about to meet and get to know intimacy choreographer Chelsea Pace, who is also a movement specialist, co-founder and head faculty of Theatrical Intimacy Education and Assistant Professor of Movement at the University of Maryland - Baltimore. For the past ten years, Chelsea has been working to develop ethical efficient and effective ways to stage intimacy, nudity and sexual violence. This is undoubtedly a conversation you won't want to miss!
Meet Dawn Saito, accomplished actress, writer, director, dancer, educator. She also happens to be a Butoh performer, which in case you aren't aware, is a form of Japanese dance theater that encompasses a diverse range of activities, techniques and motivation. In her rich and varied career, Dawn has collaborated with major artists performing her work and theirs in the U.S., Europe, Asia, South America. We're excited for you get to know this passionate, engaging, multi-talented woman.
Rotem Reshef, is a process-based action and installation artist who calls both New York and Tel Aviv home. Her work includes a range of techniques - peeling, pouring, combining natural and artificial sources and materials that shape various compositions on different canvases. Rotem's art deals with traces of human presence versus the appearance and disappearance of nature: seasonal changes, the impact and influence of color, tone and shade on our emotions and perceptions. Join us for fascinating conversation with this very talented and creative artist.
Dancer, educator, activist, all describe Denise Roberts Hurlin. Part of the Paul Taylor Dance Company, Denise is a founding member of Parsons Dance. She's also taught at Julliard in Manhattan, New Hampshire's Keene State College and her alma mater, Purchase College. Denise also happens to be the founding director of Dancers Responding to Aids, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. Under her leadership DRA has produced more than 150 events including the annual Fire Island Dance Festival and together, they've raised more than $300 million to provide lifesaving medication, healthy meals and other social services for people living with HIV.
Heather Booth is a force to be reckoned with and that's a very good thing! She is one of the country's leading strategists when it comes to progressive issue campaigns and driving issues in elections. Heather's organizing and commitment to social justice began during the civil rights, anti-Vietnam War and women's movements of the 1960s. She also started JANE, an underground abortion service in 1965 before Roe v Wade became law. We cover a lot of territory in this open, honest, impactful conversation with a compassionate, committed woman.
You're about to meet and get to know "Dr. Wang" Newton, a Taiwanese-born American performance artist, who specializes in the art of drag or 'drag king' performance. Assigned female at birth, Dr. Wang is gender-fluid and offers social commentary on culture and politics with comedic jabs. This is one open, honest conversation with a truly fascinating guest.
Melissa Iwai has wanted to be a children's book author and illustrator as far back as she can remember. She has illustrated more than 30 picture books, beginning with Night Shift Daddy published in 2000. Melissa also wrote and illustrated Soup Day and Pizza Day. And speaking of soup and pizza - when she's not creating visual art, Melissa can be found in her kitchen, cooking, baking and developing new recipes. In fact, she was a 2010 Cooking Light Reader Recipe winner. We're so glad Melissa took a break from creating visual and culinary art to have a conversation with us!
How to describe Tracy Edwards? Let's start with determined, accomplished, ballsy, adventurous, passionate. In 1989, when she was in her mid-20's, Tracy and her crew of 11 females became the first-ever all-women's team to compete in the grueling, prestigious, 32,000 mile Whitbread Round the World sailing race that begins and ends in Southampton, England. How she managed to pull this off (besting male crews in their class, by the way) is the focus of the inspiring, empowering documentary, "Maiden." We are thrilled to share Tracy's story in this not-to-be-missed conversation.
For Vivian Chew it's all about music. While working at ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers), she founded the "ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Awards," which is celebrating its 32nd year. She's also the founder of TimeZone International, the first and only U.S. based African-American owned company that provides recording artists with a wide array of services. Vivian and her husband, Music Director/ Producer Ray are co-owners of Chew Entertainment, a premier production company. There's also their foundation, "Power2Inspire" and their New Jersey-based RVMK Recording studio. Join us for a fascinating conversation with this music biz mover and shaker.
Cassandra Greene is a pastor, writer, director, producer, teacher, civil rights activist, domestic violence advocate...and...INSPIRATION. For more than a dozen years, she has directed the re-enactment of the infamous 1946 lynching murders of 2 black men and their wives on Georgia's Moore's Ford Bridge. Her efforts are chronicled in the film, "Always in Season." Cassandra has also conducted workshops, retreats and seminars on domestic violence, relationships and has also written plays and skits for several non-profits about bullying, sexual abuse and human trafficking. There's no stopping this incredible, committed, creative woman!
KT Sullivan is a woman of many talents. The Broadway actress (Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Three Penny Opera with Sting) and singer has headlined at the Oak Room of the legendary Algonquin Hotel and one of those performances, "Rhyme, Women and Song," was featured on WNET, New York City's public television station. KT's also performed at Carneige Hall, Lincoln Center, 54 Below, Birdland, The Kennedy Center in D.C. to name just a few. She also happens to be Artistic Director of the Mabel Mercer Foundation, which hosts the NY Cabaret Convention. We're sure you'll enjoy getting to know yet another creative woman.
Put simply: the world needs more women like Elizabeth Suda! After two years working in the Merchandising Department of Coach, she bagged it all and headed for Laos. Elizabeth was on a mission to understand how local, sustainable crafts made by women could become part of the global fashion industry. It was there that she learned bout the Secret War in Laos (1963-1974), which left behind 80 million unexploded bombs. That trip made quite an impact, because before long, Article22 was born, and with it, the Peacebomb bracelet, handmade by local Laotian artists from Vietnam War shrapnel. Article22 has developed into a global business with an ever evolving collection of jewelry. This is truly a conversation you can't afford to miss!
You're about to meet one amazing, accomplished, committed woman who really is making a difference in the world. Not only is Dr. Anne Fishel a clinical psychologist, family therapist, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, Director of the Family and Couple Therapy Program at Mass General, she's also the Executive Director and co-founder of The Family Dinner Project. Its goal is to encourage and help families have more frequent and meaningful dining experiences - certainly a challenge in today's world. Needless to say, there's plenty to take away from our latest conversation.
Did you know there are 15 million single moms living and working in the U.S? Dr. Marika Lindholm is certainly familiar with that statistic. She raised 2 children on her own after going through a divorce. Marika, who has a doctorate in sociology and taught at Northwestern for more than 15 years, realized that single mothers from all different backgrounds lacked much needed resources, support and connections. And so...ESME.com was born - Empowering Solo Moms Everywhere, an on-line community that operates 24/7. Marika's also behind "We Got This: Solo Mom's Stories of Grit Heart and Humor." A recently published collection of 75 essays and stories from women, who come together to break the stigma around single moms. Needless to say - lots to talk about in our latest conversation.
Violist Molly Carr and pianist Anna Petrova make beautiful music together and audiences around the world are so grateful! Acclaimed international soloists, the two joined forces and formed the Carr-Petrova Duo. In August, 2018, they launched "Novel Voices," a year long initiative aimed at raising awareness of the lives and struggles of refugees around the world. They visited 8 camps in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East performing, holding workshops and filming the life stories of their diverse audience members. This is an important, moving conversation with 2 committed, talented and not easily intimidated women who are making a difference!
You are about to meet and get to know two extraordinary, passionate, committed women. Swiss filmmaker Barbara Miller* is the woman behind the powerful documentary #Female Pleasure. It follows five courageous women from different cultures as they struggle for justice and equality as they take charge of their own bodies. And one of those women is Leyla Hussein, a Somali-born, British psycho-therapist and social activist who was genitally mutilated at the age of seven. She has made it her mission to fight against female genital mutilation or FGM, as well as for the sexual determination of Muslim women worldwide. This is one empowering, moving, critically important conversation.
Born in France and based in Brooklyn, multi-disciplinary artist Prune Nourry works in sculpture, performance and video and was living her life, when in 2016, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It's a journey she shares in the first person film, "Serendipity." By doing so, Prune discovered new meaning in her impressive body of work and its serendipitous relationship to her own survival and mortality. She shares that and so much more in this truly fascinating, riveting and inspiring conversation.
Breanna Sinclaire's life is the stuff operas are written about. She happens to be the only operatic soprano in the world who is transgender. Born in Baltimore, Breanna made her way west - graduating from the California Institute of the Arts where she earned a BFA and where her transition began. There were some very dark days following graduation and her acceptance to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she earned an MFA. Breanna was the first transwoman in the opera program. She made her debut with the San Francisco Symphony on New Year's Eve. 3 years earlier, Breanna sang the National Anthem at an Oakland A's baseball game before a crowd of 30,000. There's no way you won't be impacted by Breanna's extraordinary journey to find her true, authentic self.
Irene Taylor Brodsky happens to be an: Emmy and Peabody Award-winning, Oscar-nominated, director, producer, writer, cinematographer, whose documentaries have been shown in theaters, at festivals and on the small screen. Her first documentary feature "Hear and Now" was actually a memoir about her deaf parents. Her mom and dad are back on the big screen as is Irene's son Jonas, in her newest work "Moonlight Sonata: Deafness in Three Movements." This is one very open, very personal conversation with a very accomplished, passionate, creative woman.
Looking for a simple, delicious, nutritious, lo-cal snack minus artificial sweeteners? Look no further than SimpleProtein, the brain-child of Cathy Richards, who started the company in Canada in 2002. Linda Zink, whose career includes developing new products and bringing them to market, is part of the SimplyProtein female-founded team now based in Colorado. Linda, who spear-headed the re-formulation and expansion of SimplyProtein products into the U.S., takes us through that process and also talks about being a woman working in the world of consumer packaged goods.
For Katie Thiroux, it's all about making music, which she does in a unique and captivating way. Katie's a jazz vocalist AND a virtuoso bass player. She's also a gifted composer. Dedicated to jazz education and student outreach, Katie's conducted master classes and workshops and also runs Hawaii's Jazz Maui Camp. Love swinging jazz? Then you'll love meeting and getting to know this talented, creative woman!
Direct from Australia, Claudia Nankervis, who by the way, is not my first guest from the 'land down under.' That distinction goes to her filmmaker mom, who I had the pleasure and honor of interviewing a while back. Her dad, by the way, Brian Nankervis, co-hosts a RocKwiz, a popular tv music show back home. Needless to say Claudia was introduced to the arts at a young age and she's capitalized on that. She's worked in radio, interned at a film production company in NYC and worked at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She currently co-hosts a podcast and is developing a web series.
Meet Gigi de Manio, one of the country's pre-eminent wedding photographers. Since forming Genevieve de Manio Photography (www.demaniophotograpy.com) in 1997, she's photographed more than 475 weddings and was there when Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky, Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent and John Henry, the owner of the Boston Red Sox all said their "I do's." Gigi's work has been featured in dozens of wedding magazines and newspapers, including Modern Bride, Boston Weddings as well as a profile in the New York Times Sunday Styles section. For Gigi, her work is truly a labor of love.
Reading novels written by Kate Christensen can certainly turn into an addiction. Her characters are compelling, flawed and so relatable. The author of seven books, Kate won the 2008 PEN/Faulkner Award for her fourth novel, "The Great Man." Her most recent, "The Last Cruise," was published in 2018. She's also written two culinary memoirs, "Blue Plate Special" and "How to Cook a Moose," which won the 2016 Maine Literary Award for Memoir. Join us for an open, honest, really fascinating conversation with one helluva creative woman!
It's been a while since we first met and got to know the very funny and talented Ashley Nicole Black and so we thought it's time for a 'part 2.' Ashley, who was a former correspondent and part of the Emmy-winning writing team for "Full Frontal with Samantha Bee," is now a member of HBO's new comedy series, "A Black Lady Sketch Show." It's a big deal because the cast, writers room and director are all black women. There's lot to talk and laugh about with this open, honest, irreverent creative woman!
A broadcast journalist, radio host, documentary filmmaker, public health advocate, PhD candidate, Perri Peltz's career is a rich and rewarding one. As a filmmaker, her focus has been on health and social justice. However, her newest for HBO DOCUMENTARY FILMS takes us 'outside the box.' ALTERNATE ENDINGS: Six New Ways to Die in America," explores the varied and non-traditional options of those who have chosen to celebrate life and take control of what will happen when they die. It is an intimate, illuminating, empowering film. We cover a lot of ground in our conversation with this committed, passionate, accomplished, creative woman.
Meet award winning scholar, historian, author, artist Nell Painter, the Edwards Professor of American History, Emerita at Princeton University. Her acclaimed works of history include, "Standing at Armageddon," "Sojourner Truth, "and the New York Times bestseller, "The History of White People." But her most recent book is all about second chapters. Old in "Art School: A Memoir of Starting Over," chronicles Nell's return to the classroom as an undergrad to study painting, following her retirement from Princeton. Needless to say, we cover a lot of territory in this conversation with such an accomplished, fascinating, creative woman.
If you're a film, tv and theater person, you're probably familiar with Catherine Wolf's work. Currently, she plays Kevin Bacon's sarcastic mother-in-law on the Showtime series "City on a Hill." Her resume also includes roles on "Oz," "Sex and the City," "Law and Order" and "Cagney and Lacey." Catherine's film credits are numerous: she was Jennifer Connolly's mom in the Oscar-nominated "Little Children." She's also acted in several Harold Pinter plays and happens to be the Founding Producing Director of The Colleagues Theatre Company. There's plenty to talk about with this warm, engaging, creative woman.
Producer Wendy Federman and Broadway? Perfect together. Her 80+ co-productions include the highly acclaimed and award-winning: To Kill A Mockingbird, Dear Evan Hansen, Hadestown, and Network. Wendy also happens to be a member of the John F. Kennedy Center's National Committee for the Performing Arts. And...she is also a 2019 recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. There's plenty to learn in this 'theatrical' conversation with a committed patron of the arts!
Family businesses are nothing new, but the GEEKY FAB FIVE STEM is not your ordinary mom and pop partnership. Actually, it's a mom and daughter venture. 13 year old Lucy Lareau and her mom Liz are the co-creators of this graphic novel series based on Lucy's elementary school experiences, where students learn to make a difference. Their goal is to inspire girls to reach their potential and work together for a better world. We guarantee our conversation with this creative duo will inspire you!
Nam Holtz was abandoned at birth in her native Korea, and at six months was adopted by a loving American family. She grew up in the Chicago suburbs. It was clear Nam had talent - after graduating college with a BFA in dance, she was cast in the Broadway production of The King and I, and toured the U.S. in Miss Saigon and Flower Drum Song. She's also acted in film and tv. Growing up, Nam never really thought about "her past." But that changed when her older sister gave birth. It became the catalyst for Nam to travel to Korea, to try and find her biological parents and learn all she could about where she was born. That journey is chronicled in "Found in Korea,." the film she, wrote, directed and produced. She talks about that and lots more in this engaging, honest, personal conversation.
How to describe Tracy Edwards? Let's start with determined, accomplished, ballsy, adventurous, passionate. In 1989, when she was in her mid-20's, Tracy and her crew of 11 females became the first-ever all-women's team to compete in the grueling, prestigious, 32,000 mile Whitbread Round the World sailing race that begins and ends in Southampton, England. How she managed to pull this off (besting male crews in their class, by the way) is the focus of the inspiring, empowering documentary, "Maiden." We are thrilled to share Tracy's story in this not-to-be-missed conversation.
Jamie Costello is Philadelphia-born and bred. That's where she went to college - earning as Associate Degree in Fashion from the Art Institute of Philadelphia. Jamie left the city of Brotherly Love for the Big Apple, where she's lived and worked for several years. But it's her very personal story that she shares with us. Our first transgender guest, Jamie takes us on her journey, when at the age of 4 she knew she was different and also knew it was something she couldn't tell her parents. Join us for this empowering and important conversation.
You're about to meet and get to know Beth Prevor, Co-founder and Executive DIrector of Hands On. For the past 30 years, this service organization has been advocating for access to the cultural arts for members of the Deaf community and audiences with disabilities. She has produced more than 500 sign-interpreted productions at some of New York's most prestigious theaters and has led workshops on accessibility and the arts for organizations throughout the U.S. Beth, by the way, is the 2015 recipient of the John F. Kennedy Center's Excellence in Accessibility Leadership Lifetime Achievement Award.
Born and raised in Mississippi, Aizzah Fatima is a New York City based actress/writer/producer/playwright. A graduate of the the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Aizzah's one-woman play, "Dirty Paki Lingerie" explores what it means to be Muslim and Pakistani-American in today's world. It's been performed all over: New York City, London, Toronto, Pakistan, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Lots to talk about with this very funny, tell it like it is, creative woman.
What it does it take to land a role on Broadway, Off-Broadway and beyond? We posed that question and many more to Jamibeth Margolis, who's spent more than 20 years as a professional casting director in New York, before going out on her own. Her credits are numerous and include: "Fiddler On The Roof" in Yiddish, the "Phantom of the Opera," "Les Miz," "Miss Saigon" and "Cats." There are also multiple television pilots and on camera industrials for major U.S. companies. Oh...and Jamibeth also teaches musical theater, acting and audition techniques in New York City. Join us for a fascinating 'behind the scenes' conversation.
Entrepreneur, visionary, activist, author...all describe Aliza Sherman. In 1995 she founded Cybergrrl, the first full-service, female-owned web company and the first global internet networking organization for women. Newsweek noticed and named Aliza one of the Top People Who Matter Most on the Internet. She's currently the CEO of Ellementa, a global women's cannabis wellness network. Her work has been featured in USA Today, Newsweek, Time, CNN, CNBC and MSNBC. And....she's the author of 12 books. Needless to say, we cover a lot of ground in our conversation with this fascinating, committed, accomplished woman!
Melissa Iwai has wanted to be a children's book author and illustrator as far back as she can remember. She has illustrated more than 30 picture books, beginning with Night Shift Daddy published in 2000. Melissa also wrote and illustrated Soup Day and Pizza Day. And speaking of soup and pizza - when she's not creating visual art, Melissa can be found in her kitchen, cooking, baking and developing new recipes. In fact, she was a 2010 Cooking Light Reader Recipe winner. We're so glad Melissa took a break from creating visual and culinary art to have a conversation with us!
For Andrea Grody her extensive resume is a testament to her talent. She's the Music Director, Supervisor, Vocal and Incidental Arranger for the Broadway hit musical TOOTSIE. She 'did' the same for THE BAND'S VISIT, which won 10 Tony Awards. Andrea's whose Off-Broadway and regional theater credits are extensive, also wrote STRANGE FACES, a full-length musical. There's a lot to learn about musical theater from this inspiring, accomplished, creative woman.
Actress, playwright, story teller - all describe Marian Licha. She combines them all in her one-woman show, "Frida VIce-Versa." Born in Puerto Rico, Marian draws on 'real life' stories, especially those that empower women. And to that end, her play conveys how Frida Kahlo's spirit prevailed despite the male-dominated artistic world. Frida Kahlo, nothwithstanding, Marian also finds plenty of humor in the inevitable culture clash that comes with being a Latina in an Anglo culture.
Reading novels written by Kate Christensen can certainly turn into an addiction. Her characters are compelling, flawed and so relatable. The author of seven books, Kate won the 2008 PEN/Faulkner Award for her fourth novel, "The Great Man." Her most recent, "The Last Cruise," was published in 2018. She's also written two culinary memoirs, "Blue Plate Special" and "How to Cook a Moose," which won the 2016 Maine Literary Award for Memoir. Join us for an open, honest, really fascinating conversation with one helluva creative woman!
Meet another creative woman with an impressive resume. Pamela Green's professional life includes directing and producing music videos, commercials, motion graphics, feature film titles. She's the founder of Legwork Collective, which locates and obtains the rights to unusual and rarely seen before footage, stills, audio and artifacts used in features, docs, tv series and commercials. 10 years in the making, Pamela also wrote, directed and edited the documentary "Be Natural," the untold story of Alice Guy-Blache, the first female filmmaker, who made her first movie in 1896 at the age of 23...and went on to write, direct and produce more than 1,000 films!
We couldn't be more excited to have you meet and get to know Alix Strauss, New York Times columnist and featured lifestyle, travel and trend writer. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, including: The Financial Times, Entertainment Weekly, Conde Nast Traveler, Time Magazine. She's also an award-winning author. Perhaps you've read "The Joy of Funerals," "Death Becomes Them: Unearthing the Suicides of the Brilliant, The Famous and The Notorious," and "Based Upon Availability." Alix is also the editor of "Have I Got a Guy for You," an anthology of mom-initiated dating horror stories. She shares that and so much more in this irreverent, funny, honest conversation.
Talk about an accomplished, creative, committed woman! A globally recognized human rights advocate, Nancy Schwartzman also happens to be a director, producer, and media strategist. She uses storytelling and technology to create safer communities for women and girls. Her debut documentary, "Roll Red Roll," chronicles the sexual assault of a teenage girl by several members of a revered high school football team in the tight-knit community of Steubenville, Ohio. This searing, visceral, awarding winning film goes behind the scenes to expose the 'boys will be boys' culture. Nancy also created the White House award winning app, Circle of 6, aimed at reducing sexual violence among America's youth. This is one conversation you won't want to miss.
Rachel Carey is a filmmaker, author and playwright. "Ask for Jane," her first feature as writer/director, is based on the true story of an underground abortion network in Chicago. From 1969 until 1973 when Roe v Wade was passed, a collective of college students helped more than 11,000 women get safe, illegal abortions. Rachel's first full-length play, "Phases" was nominated for Best Play and a pair of acting awards at the 2012 Thespis Festival. Her debut novel, "Debt" was published in 2013. Rachel has also taught at several colleges and universities, including Yale, her alma mater.
Entrepreneur Sydney Sherman is on a mission. She's the CEO and co-founder of Faire.Shop, a new kind of online marketplace that promotes and expands fair and ethical trade practices by selling ethically sourced products - from beauty and fashion to home goods and necessities. Headquartered in Austin, Faire's vision is a world without poverty, where everyone can "thrive in a dignified, economically sustainable way." You'll want to meet and get to know this committed, passionate and inspirational woman.
Meet Gigi de Manio, one of the country's pre-eminent wedding photographers. Since forming Genevieve de Manio Photography (www.demaniophotograpy.com) in 1997, she's photographed more than 475 weddings and was there when Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky, Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent and John Henry, the owner of the Boston Red Sox all said their "I do's." Gigi's work has been featured in dozens of wedding magazines and newspapers, including Modern Bride, Boston Weddings as well as a profile in the New York Times Sunday Styles section. For Gigi, her work is truly a labor of love.
Roberta Hoskie has one helluva story to share. A high school drop-out and a mom at 17, Roberta was on welfare living in a Connecticut homeless shelter. But with a lot of grit, determination, moxie and smarts she turned her life around. She is the founder and owner of a successful business - Outreach Realty, which has morphed into 3 divisions: Residential Property Management, Tenant Placement and Maintenance Services. Roberta is also passionate about giving back. Her non-profit, Outreach Foundation, advocates affordable housing for low and moderate income families. We cover a lot of ground in this honest, open conversation with this inspirational woman!
In 2017 Linda Shelton was named among Dance Magazine's most influential people in dance today. Here's why: since 1993 she's been the Executive Director of The Joyce Theater Foundation, the NY-based non-profit that has served the dance community for more than 30 years. Before joining the Joyce, Linda was the General Manager of The Joffrey Ballet and held various management positions at the Twyla Tharp Dance Foundation and managed tours for the Bolshoi, Moscow Virtuosi and composer Philip Glass. Clearly, Linda's career is rich and varied and one that she shares in our wide-ranging conversation.
Deb Brandon's career is an eclectic one to say the least. Born in England, raised there, Israel and Switzerland, she lives in Pittsburgh and is a math professor at Carnegie Mellon University, which is where she earned her PhD. Deb's a respected textile artist whose book, "Threads Around the World" describes how artisans from 25 diverse cultures create traditional fiber arts using centuries old methods. Deb is also a brain injury survivor who underwent 3 surgeries in as many weeks. She kept a diary, which eventually evolved into a book: "But My Brain Had Other Ideas: A Memoir or Recovery from Brain Surgery." We cover a lot of ground in this open, honest, life affirming conversation.
When Eve Durante married into a large Italian family, she learned a lot from her mother-in-law when it came to shopping, prepping, cooking and serving Sunday dinners and holiday meals. Eve's passion for delicious, clean eating was very much on display in her own kitchen - especially when it came to her home-made tomato sauce which she bottled and gave to family and friends. It earned rave reviews and Eve knew it was time to share her culinary skills with a much wider audience. So, in 2015 The Vine was born. Currently, there are five flavors of tomato sauce, four salsas and a honey-sweetened ketchup that can be found in more than 2,000 stores nationwide (www.foodsofthevine.com). Join us for a mouth-watering conversation with this culinary and entrepreneur.
Stefanie Nelson's on the move - literally. A director/choreographer, she is the founder of the Stefanie Nelson DanceGroup. The New York City-based contemporary performance ensemble has been described as instinctual, untamed and edgy. Stefanie's also the founder and artistic director of Dance Italia, an annual summer event in Agrapoli and Lucca. The program has welcomed more than 300 students from 20 countries. It's our pleasure to introduce yet another, passionate, committed, creative woman.
Watch out world - here comes Thursday Williams! She might be 17, but Thursday has an impressive list of credits to her name. She's participated in a variety of debates at Brooklyn Law School and NYU; completed a judicial internship through the Sonia & Celina Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program, is president of her high school, is an explorer and member of the Youth Community Council for the 103rd Police Precinct in Queens. And although she's not a professional actress, Thursday was a cast as a debater in the highly acclaimed, successful Off-Broadway play, What "The Constitution Means to Me." Clearly, Thursday can hold her own any day of the week!
Pearl Gluck has stories to tell, including her own. As a filmmaker she's been doing so for 20 years. Pearl, who grew up in the insular, cloistered tight-knit Hasidic community of Boro Park, Brooklyn, left to attend college. She's written, directed several documentaries and award winning short films. And now, "The Turn Out," Pearl's first full-length feature which explores sex trafficking at rural truck stops. Pearl shares her personal and professional journeys in this open, honest, heart-warming conversation.
Michelle Walshe finds herself in a unique category - one of the very few female filmmakers to direct a sports documentary. And what a documentary it is. "Chasing Great," follows 34 year old Richie McCaw, considered by many to be THE best rugby player ever, through his final season as captain of the All Blacks. "Chasing Great" happens to be the highest grossing documentary in New Zealand history and one of the top 100 highest grossing documentaries of all time. Michelle and her husband also happen to be the co-founders of the production company, Augusto. They're expanding their reach to include the U.S. - opening an office in New York City. In a word, Michelle is a dynamo!
It is an honor to introduce Lek Chailert, an award-winning conservationist, who has spent the last 20+ years working tirelessly to improve the condition and promote the welfare of elephants in her native Thailand and throughout Asia. In 2005 she was named "Hero of Asia" by Time Magazine and in 2010, was honored by then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as one of six Women Heroes of Global Conservation. Not only has her work been documented by National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, CNN and the BBC, she is also the focus of the moving documentary, "Love and Bananas: An Elephant Story." This is a fascinating conversation with an absolutely remarkable woman!
She's baaack! And we couldn't be more excited. Actress/comedienne Julie Halston holds a special place in the Conversations with Creative Women universe. This marks her 4th appearance and for good reason. Julie's got a lot going on, including her latest role: Rita Marshall, the tough producer in the Broadway-bound production of "Tootsie," the musical based on the classic 1982 film starring Dustin Hoffman. You won't want to miss our conversation with this very funny, talented creative woman!
"It's impossible to be Iranian and not political." Artist Shiva Ahmadi shares her personal story of growing up in Tehran during the Revolution and Iran-Iraq War. She talks openly about leaving her parents to come to the States, where she has lived and worked since 2003. This is a riveting, captivating and emotional conversation you won't want to miss.
Meet award winning scholar, historian, author, artist Nell Painter, the Edwards Professor of American History, Emerita at Princeton University. Her acclaimed works of history include, "Standing at Armageddon," "Sojourner Truth, "and the New York Times bestseller, "The History of White People." But her most recent book is all about second chapters. Old in "Art School: A Memoir of Starting Over," chronicles Nell's return to the classroom as an undergrad to study painting, following her retirement from Princeton. Needless to say, we cover a lot of territory in this conversation with such an accomplished, fascinating, creative woman.
Direct from Australia - filmmaker Sue Thomson. She began her professional career working on Public Television in Melbourne and then went out on her own, writing and directing several documentaries. The most recent - THE COMING BACK OUT BALL. This film follows a group of older LGBTI folks who are invited to attend a ball celebrating age, gender and sexuality identity. It is a heart-warming, honest and moving look at their lives. Join us for a conversation with this creative woman from "Down Under."
Singer/songwriter/actress/activist - all describe Margo Seibert. She began her acting career in Washington, D.C. made the move to NYC in 2010 where she was cast as Adrian in the Broadway musical ROCKY; originated the role of Jane in Broadway's first a cappella musical IN TRANSIT and starred in the world premier of THE THANKSGIVING PLAY. Then there's Margo's solo album, "77th Street" which features original songs that incorporate eclectic rock and folk influences. Once again, lots to talk about with this multi-talented guest.
Patricia Harman spent most of the 60s and 70s living in rural communes in Washington State, Connecticut, Minnesota and West Virginia where she and her husband, along with a group of like-minded friends bought a farm. It was there, by accident, that she attended her first home birth. That had quite an impact; she became an RN, the first step in getting certified as a nurse-midwife, a career that has lasted more than 30 years. She subsequently re-invented herself, and became a best selling author. Patricia's written a pair of memoirs, historical/contemporary fiction and a children's book. Lots to talk about??? You bet!
Abby Epstein's career has been a rich and rewarding one. It began in 1992 in Chicago when she formed her own theatrical company. She directed several plays there before moving to New York to work on "Rent" and "The Vagina Monologues." Then in 2004 she moved into film and 3 years later formed a partnership with Rikki Lake. They've made several documentaries together including the award-winning, "The Business of Being Born." Their latest collaboration - "Weed The People." It explores the use of cannabis for children diagnosed with cancer. Lots to talk about with this accomplished socially conscious and creative woman.
Jessica Leonard's worked in some of New York's most storied restaurants: Daniel, 11 Madison Park, the James Beard House, but it was her love of chocolate that inspired her to go out on her own. In February, 2018, she opened Miss Maude's Bar of Chocolates in her home state of Virginia. The name refers to Virginia native Miss Maude who came of age in the Roaring 20s and left home for the big city, to among other pursuits, find the world's best chocolates. Jessica's added her brand to that list. Find out more in our mouth-watering conversation with this enthusiastic, adventurous entrepreneur.
Polly Draper does it all. She's an awarding-winning actress, writer, producer and director. Probably best known to fans as Ellyn Warren in the 80's tv hit Thirtysomething, Polly was nominated for a Primetime Emmy in 1998 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a drama series. Her latest project: STELLA'S LAST WEEKEND. She wrote, directed, and stars in the movie, which also features her 2 sons, Nat and Alex Wolff. We talk about the personal and professional in this open, honest, conversation with yet another accomplished, creative woman.
Jackie Rivera describes herself as a nomadic, theater-maker who acts, directs, stage manages and designs, and as such, is part of The Syndicate. This NYC-based ensemble theater company's mission is to "produce new plays by women, queer and trans artists." It advocates for diversity in how and which stories it tells. Jackie has plenty of stories of her own to tell - unique, quirky and heartening.
Pat Addiss didn't start out wanting to be a theatrical producer. She was busy running the promotion company she founded, but after 30 years, she handed the reins over to her daughter. Then in 2005, after 'learning the tools of the trade,' Pat went on to produce more than 18 Broadway and Off-Broadway productions including: Spring Awakening, Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike and Desperate Measures. And...she's never looked back!
Angels, spirit guides, aura. What exactly does it mean to be clairvoyant? No clue? We'll you're about to find out. Tori Quisling, founder of the New York Center for Clairvoyant Development, has spent the last 30 years as a professional clairvoyant and teacher, offering readings on a myriad of topics including: mediumship, past lives, career, health, relationships, spiritual path choices. Sit back and enjoy this other worldly conversation!
Molly Carr might be a millennial, but boy has she got some resume! She's a professional violist, chamber musician, educator and the founder/director of Project: Music Heals Us. Created in 2014, this non-profit provides free, live musical performances in hospitals, nursing homes, prisons, homeless shelters and refugee camps. We guarantee you'll be inspired and awed by this incredibly talented, creative woman!
A theatrical press agent for 40 years, Susan Schulman has worked with some of Broadway's most talented folks: Yul Brynner, Zero Mostel, Lauren Bacall, Katherine Hepburn, Alec Baldwin, Glenn Close. Susan's chronicled her rich and rewarding career in her book, "Backstage Pass to Broadway: True Tales from a Theater Press Agent," published in 2013. Now comes, "Backstage Pass to Broadway: More True Tales." Join us as Susan talks tales and more in this engaging, lively conversation.
Making a return engagement is the classy, accomplished, multi-talented singer/songwriter Vivian Sessoms. And once again, we cover a lot of territory. In a beautiful tribute, Vivian shares the impact the iconic Aretha Franklin had and has on her both personally and professionally. And...she also talks about the impetus for her new, powerful double-album LIFE, scheduled to be released on Baby Buddha/Ropeadope November 2nd.
Money matters to Jill Schlesinger. And to that end, the Certified Financial Planner covers the economy, markets, investing and whatever else contains a $-sign. An Emmy-nominated Business Analyst for CBS News, she shares her expertise on the network's radio and tv stations across the country. You'll want to make time to listen to Jill's jaw-dropping, but empowering stories about what it's been like to be a woman in a man's world.
This week, we revisit our episode with singer-songwriter, actress, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker Rhonda Ross Kendrick. Her parents are music industry icons. Mom is Diana Ross; dad is Motown founder and hit maker Berry Gordy. The oldest of Diana's 5 children, Rhonda's maternal half-sister is actress Tracee Ellis Ross. So...put your 'to do' list on the back burner and spend the next 30+minutes with a very classy, refreshingly honest, creative woman.
You'll want to meet and get to know Special Education teacher Dena Grushkin, who recently retired after 35 years in the classroom. However, a 2004 trip to Nigeria turned out to be a seminal moment in her life, opening her eyes to the reality of children living and attending school under the most challenging circumstances. She managed to raise $5,000 from friends, colleagues and strangers for books and other supplies. That visit prompted Dena to create the Nigerian School Project, a nonprofit educational organization that supports teachers and students. In 2009 her organization built a junior secondary school; 5 years later a senior secondary was completed, both on the river community of Tomaro Island. This June marked the first graduation class. This is a conversation you can't afford to miss!
Lauren Molina has one helluva resume. She is an award-winning actress, musician, singer/songwriter who also performs with her highly popular, comedic 'undie rock band, The Skivvies. Her acting career has taken her to Broadway, Off-Broadway and regional theater. She's been receiving rave reviews as Bella Rose, the loveable, ballsy harlot Bella Rose in "Desperate Measures," the hit musical based on Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. There's lots to talk about with this warm, funny, open, engaging creative woman.
You're about to meet and get to know another female filmmaker. Paula Eiselt's work has been supported by the Independent Television Service, the Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program and the New York State Council on the Arts. The recently released "93Queen" marks Paula's feature directorial debut. It tells the story of a group of Hasidic women as they overlook and overcome massive obstacles to form the first all-female ambulance corps in New York City. Their goal is to provide dignified, emergency medical services to the women and girls in this very religious community. "93Queen" won the inaugural first look Pitch Prize at the 2017 Hot Docs Forum.
Andrea Thome is yet another creative woman. Sports and hard news were her beat as a broadcast journalist. In fact, that's how she met her husband, Jim Thome. The Cleveland Indians third baseman was inducted into the Hall of Fame earlier this year. Andrea interviewed him on opening day of baseball's 1995 season - they were married 3 years later. Andrea also happens to be a writer. The recently released novel, "House of Belonging" is the 3rd and final book in her Hesse Creek Series. Andrea's an accomplished photographer...and a warm, friendly and engaging conversationalist!
Meet Emmy award winning director Rachel Dretzin (PBS' Frontline), who has been producing and directing documentaries since 1994. Rachel, along with her husband, are the founders of Ark Media, a Brooklyn-based documentary production company. "Far From the Tree," Rachel's first feature documentary, is based on the New York Times best seller by Andrew Solomon. It explores the difficulties and challenges of raising a child who has Downs syndrome, dwarfism, autism, deafness, mental illness, is a child prodigy, or are transgender. The power of documentaries to educate, inform, empower is a focus of this fascinating, important and honest conversation with this committed, creative, accomplished woman.
Yasmine Rana has a lot on her mind. A playwright, drama therapist and educator, her plays have been developed and produced in the U.S. and abroad. In 2014, Yasmine was one of 16 finalists for the Francesca Primus Prize for her play, "The War Zone is My Bed." A year later, she received a fellowship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for "Another Spring." Her plays and monologues have been published in numerous reviews. As a drama therapist, Yasmine has worked with refugees in Bosnia, The Republic of Georgia and Switzerland. You'll enjoy meeting and getting to know yet another creative woman.
How many female jazz pianists/composers/recording artists can you name? Well, you're about to meet one. Bunny Beck was originally trained as a classical pianist, but jazz became her passion. She was able to study with the likes of Lee Evans, Fernando Hernandez and legend Harold Mabern. Her composing began primarily with jazz tunes and ballads. In 2010 PARMA Recordings released her cd "Sound Tapestries." It was followed 4 years later by "From the Spirit" featuring the Bunny Beck Jazz Ensemble. Bunny shares her passion and love for making music.
Acclaimed filmmaker Debra Granik's movies focus on the disenfranchised, marginalized and compromised as is evidenced by the powerful "Winter's Bone," which launched the career of Jennifer Lawrence and was nominated for 4 Academy Awards. Her latest, "Leave No Trace," tells the story of a father and his teenaged daughter who live off the grid in a nature reserve outside Portland, Oregon. We cover a lot of ground in this open, honest, fascinating conversation with a creative woman whose career has focused on exceptional people - both real and fictional.
Meet Sheila Ronning, leadership, networking expert, board strategist and founder of Women in the Boardroom. Since 2002, she's been connecting female executives with the people and tools needed to succeed in business and the boardroom. Her accomplishments haven't gone unnoticed, with a spot on the prestigious "40 Under Forty" membership Fortune's Most Powerful Women Insider network. Sheila and Women in the Boardroom has been featured in: The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Chicago Sun Times and the Minneapolis/St. Paul Journal.
Past guest Jennifer Baumgardner's back and for good reason. The feminist activist, journalist, author and former publisher of The Feminist Press has launched a new venture. She's the founder of Dottir Press, an independent publishing house. Dottir is Icelandic for daughter and speaks to its mission of passing down and building upon feminist intellectual and creative legacies to fill the void in our history and present culture through storytelling in all forms and for all ages. Join us for yet another important and powerful conversation.
Shannelle Armstrong Fowler is the owner and founder of Haute & Co. Bridal Boutique, Chicago's only luxury plus size bridal shop that caters to women sizes 14-32. By the way, the average woman in the U.S. happens to be a size 16. Shannelle is also the star of the PeopleTV series, "The Perfect Fit." It follows a dozen curvy women as they search for their 'perfect' wedding dress. We cover a lot of ground with this fashion entrepreneur and body positive advocate.
Growing up, Gizel Jimenez had no idea she would wind up a successful and celebrated actress. Painfully shy, she couldn't imagine performing in front of a live audience, much less making it a career. But that all changed after Gizel got her BFA at the University of Florida's New World School of the Arts. She never looked back - and has worked ever since. Her credits include: Olivia, the teenager estranged from her mother, an undocumented immigrant in the acclaimed Off-Broadway show, 'Miss You Like Hell.' Gizel played the Mistress in 'Evita' and Rosalia in a National tour of 'West Side Story.' Regional Theater includes roles in 'Oklahoma,' 'In The Heights.' She's also appeared on HBO's 'Divorce,' 'Law & Order SVU,' and 'The Tale of Two Jimmy Chins.' This is an open, honest, emotional conversation with one helluva creative woman.
Meet visionary and fashion activist, Sugandh Agrawal who shares with us her "American" dream story. Born in India, she moved to the U.S. to attend college and work in the industrial design field. And... it is here that she founded Gunas, an ethically-sourced, 100% vegan line of luxury handbags, backpacks, wallets, totes, satchels. That means no silk, no fur, no wool, no down feathers, no leather. Gunas products are made from a variety of fabrics and in sweatshop-free environments. What began as a NYC-based label in 2010, Gunas has gone global. You don't want to miss this inspiration conversation.
There are yoga instructors - and then there's Halle Becker, founder of New York City's Home Girl Yoga. Halle, who "teaches from the parts of her life that have need healing and spiritual examination," shares her very personal story of overcoming addiction, starting her own production company and adopting a daughter from Russia. This is one honest, raw and 'out there conversation!'
Darci Picoult is a force to be reckoned with. She's an actress, an award-winning playwright, screenwriter, producer, teacher. Her credits are long and varied and include her powerful and very personal one-woman show, "My Virginia," which was presented in theaters and solo festivals around the country and broadcast on National Public Radio. Darci also wrote the screenplay for "Where is Kyra," starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Keifter Sutherland. It premiered at Sundance in 2017 and tells the story of a middle-aged woman who loses her job and struggles to survive on the income of her ailing mother. Join us for a very personal, open and honest conversation with this accomplished woman.
It is an honor to introduce Lek Chailert, an award-winning conservationist, who has spent the last 20+ years working tirelessly to improve the condition and promote the welfare of elephants in her native Thailand and throughout Asia. In 2005 she was named "Hero of Asia" by Time Magazine and in 2010, was honored by then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as one of six Women Heroes of Global Conservation. Not only has her work been documented by National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, CNN and the BBC, she is also the focus of the moving documentary, "Love and Bananas: An Elephant Story." This is a fascinating conversation with an absolutely remarkable woman!
You're about to meet yet another accomplished, creative female powerhouse. Deborah Grace Winer is an: author, dramatist, historian and producer. And...she's also a leading expert on the American Songbook and Musical Theater. Her shows have celebrated such icons as Dorothy Fields, Jerome Kern, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers. As you'll hear, Deborah's career is a rich and varied one.
Rachel Israel is an artist on several levels. She studied painting at Rhode Island School of Design and went on her to get Masters in Fine Arts at Columbia University. Rachel also happens to be a filmmaker, having directed numerous shorts that have been shown at various Festivals, including Sundance. One of them, "Keep the Change," premiered at the Columbia Film Festival in 2013 and went on to win the top award of Focus Feature Best Film. The feature-length version took home Best US Narrative Feature honors at Tribeca in 2017. The romantic comedy tells the story of two autistic adults who strike up an unlikely and transformative relationship.
Julie Maloney is a woman of many talents. A former dancer, choreographer and artistic director of the Julie Maloney Dance Company, she is also an acclaimed poet. Her book, "Private Landscape" is an intimate look into the heart of a woman negotiating life after a cancer diagnosis. Julie's debut novel, "A Matter of Chance," tells the story of an 8 year old girl's disappearance from a town on the Jersey Shore and her mom's relentless search to find her. Julie is also the founder/director of Women Reading Aloud, a non-profit that promotes female writers. Needless to say, we cover a lot of ground in this conversation.
You're about to meet and get to know a Hollywood trailblazer. Susan Silver is one of the first female sit-com writers, whose career began in 1971 at "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Her mentor was none other than the great Garry Marshall. Susan went on to write for "The Bob Newhart Show," "Maude," "The Partridge Family" and "Square Pegs." She was also the Casting Director for "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In." Oh, there's more. Susan dishes about the highs and lows of both her comedy career and her love life in her memoir, "Hot Pants in Hollywood: Sex, Secrets and Sitcoms." This is one helluva conversation with one helluva creative woman!
Michelle Walshe finds herself in a unique category - one of the very few female filmmakers to direct a sports documentary. And what a documentary it is. "Chasing Great," follows 34 year old Richie McCaw, considered by many to be THE best rugby player ever, through his final season as captain of the All Blacks. "Chasing Great" happens to be the highest grossing documentary in New Zealand history and one of the top 100 highest grossing documentaries of all time. Michelle and her husband also happen to be the co-founders of the production company, Augusto. They're expanding their reach to include the U.S. - opening an office in New York City. In a word, Michelle is a dynamo!
When in a restaurant, how much attention do you pay to the outfits worn by the wait staff? Probably, not much. That's so not the case for Deirdra Jones. Along with her husband, they founded Jones of Boerum Hill, a high-end uniform and apron company to: "fill a void in the market for a workwear company to take a more fashion forward approach to uniforms and aprons." And have they ever! Their line can be found in top bars, restaurants and hotels all over the world. Meet and get to know yet another creative woman.
It's both an honor and pleasure to introduce Melissa Salguero: teacher, musician, role model, mentor and...2018 Grammy Music Educator Award winner! She joined the faculty of P.S. 48 Joseph R. Drake elementary school in New York's South Bronx neighborhood in 2010. In the years since, Melissa has built its music program from the ground up, raising more than $160,000, including the $50,000 she received on the Ellen DeGeneres show. Melissa combines science and musical concepts by transforming her classroom into a Mad Scientist lab. You're about to listen to one uplifting, inspiring, feel good conversation.
You're about to meet and get to know award-winning stage, film, television actress and playwright, Sharon Washington. Her eclectic career spans more than 25 years and with it a long list of credits.
She recently made her debut as a playwright with her highly acclaimed one woman-show, "Feeding The Dragon." It's set in the St. Agnes branch of the New York City Public Library. Why? Because that's where Sharon lived with her mother and father, the library custodian. Sharon takes us on her creative career path in this fascinating, honest, engaging conversation.
Jenifer Foote's resume in a word? Wow! She's a New York City-based actress, dancer, choreographer/associate director and teacher. Jenifer's Broadway credits include: "Hello Dolly!," "She Loves Me," "Holiday Inn," "On The Twentieth Century," "The Mystery of Edwin Drood," "Follies," "Rock of Ages," "A Chorus Line" and "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels." Jenifer's also taught master classes in vocal performance, scene study and dance. You'll want to meet this creative woman, whose passion for her work is contagious!
Sophie Brooks got her Bachelor of Fine Arts in film and television from New York University in 2012. And not quite 5 years later, has made her feature writing and directing debut with "The Boy Downstairs." The romantic comedy stars Zosia Mamet (she played Shoshanna Shapiro in the HBO hit "Girls"), who, after a few years living abroad, moves back to New York City. Unbeknownst to her, she rents an apartment in her former boyfriend's building. Sophie talks about her motivation as well as the challenges she faced in making her first commercial film.
Clearly, mounting a Broadway show is a herculean task that requires the talents and expertise of a whole cast of characters, far beyond the actors you see on stage. One of those players is the Company Manager. Who? In case you didn't know, the job of a Company Manager is one of the toughest in the theater. You're about to find out why. Tracy Geltman began her career at Maine State Music Theater as an apprentice before coming to New York, where she worked on "Hairspray," "War Paint," "Fun Home" and "The Band's Visit," to name just a few Broadway hits. Listen in as she talks about her love of theater and what it's like to be the Company Manager.
Joan Kron in a word? Icon. This 90 year old creative, accomplished, trendsetter's career has spanned more than 50 years! Among her many accomplishments: Joan co-founded the New York Times Home section, was the first fashion reporter for the Wall Street Journal, an editor at Avenue and a famed columnist at Allure magazines, where she literally invented the plastic surgery beat. And than last year "Take My Nose...Please,!" the first film she wrote, directed and produced was released. Lots to talk about?? You bet!
According to the National Restaurant Association, only 19% of chefs in the U.S. are women. You're about to meet one of them. Susan Spicer has been dubbed a one-woman industry in New Orleans. She is the chef/owner of 3 Big Easy restaurants: Mondo, Rosedale and the French Quarter's culinary landmark, Bayona. Inducted into the James Beard Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America and a member of the Culinary Hall of Fame, Susan shares her passion and drive to prepare creative classic dishes, while expanding on local culinary traditions.
Meet Lucie Canzoniero, who certainly has the creative street cred, just not the age. Lucie is a freshman at New York City's prestigious LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts Her major is technical theater, but she has many interests and talents. They include: photography, film and....wrestling! Lucie started taking pictures about 4 years ago. Last Spring she had the opportunity to accompany her dad to India where he was working on a documentary about an organization that helps girls, rescued from sex trafficking, get jobs and start new lives. Lucie, took lots of pictures and says the experience was inspirational and sparked in her a desire to "take pictures for the rest of my life." She'd better! You're in store for a very refreshing, open, honest conversation with one very classy female.
Although state courts handle more than 95% of all court cases in the U.S., a report from the American Constitution Society found that white men comprise 58% of state court judges; less than 33% are women and 20% are people of color. You're about to meet one of the 33%. Although recently retired, Joan Lobis spent more than 30 years on the bench, 26 as a New York State Supreme Court Judge. Her election to Civil Court in 1988 made Joan the first openly gay female judge in New York and then on the Supreme Court. She was one of the founding members of the New York City Bar Association's Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights. We cover a lot of territory during a conversation you won't want to miss.
Singer-songwriter, actress, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, Rhonda Ross Kendrick is a force to be reckoned with. Her parents are music industry icons. Mom is Diana Ross; dad is Motown founder and hit maker Berry Gordy. The oldest of Diana's 5 children, Rhonda's maternal half-sister is actress Tracee Ellis Ross. So...put your 'to do' list on the back burner and spend the next 30+minutes with a very classy, refreshingly honest, creative woman.
Ellen Tilem knew from a very young age that she wanted to be a Cantor. In Jewish tradition the Cantor is a musician trained in the vocal arts, who along with the Rabbi, leads the congregation in prayer. But there's so much more for Cantor Tilem. She's been a member of the clergy at Temple Emeth, a reform congregation in Teaneck, New Jersey since 1994 following her Ordination from the Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion - School of Sacred Music. She officiates at weddings, funerals and baby namings. And, as an experienced Pastoral Counselor she connects with congregants who are struggling with life's challenges: grief, spirituality, illness, divorce. Join us as Cantor Tile shares her personal and professional stories.
You're about to meet activist, scholar, educator, critic, writer and publisher, Debbie Reese, Ph.D., an enrolled member of Northern New Mexico's Nambe Pueblo tribe. Her research and writing are centered on how Native Americans are represented in children's literature - from books for infants, through and including the young adult genre. She is the author of the critically acclaimed blog, American Indians in Children's Literature. This is one hell of an eye-opening, powerful and long overdue conversation.
Meet Michelle Materre, who during her 30+ year career, has amassed the following credits: producer, writer, arts administrator, distribution and marketing specialist and professor. For more than 20 years, her critically acclaimed film series,"Creatively Speaking," has been a respected forum for presenting works by and about women and people of color. Michelle is also a Associate Professor of Media Studies and Film at The New School. This creative woman has plenty to share, so sit back and enjoy this conversation.
Meet Michelle Materre, who during her 30+ year career, has amassed the following credits: producer, writer, arts administrator, distribution and marketing specialist and professor. For more than 20 years, her critically acclaimed film series, "Creatively Speaking," has been a respected forum for presenting works by and about women and people of color. Michelle is also a Associate Professor of Media Studies and Film at The New School. This creative woman has plenty to share, so sit back and enjoy this conversation.
Talya Tibbon is an award-winning documentary film and television director, producer and writer whose projects have focused on contemporary social and political issues. Talya has documented street gangs, drug dealers and users, former Guantanamo detainees setting out on a new path and now, perhaps the greatest humanitarian crisis of our time - the plight of refugees leaving war-ravaged Syria to seek asylum in other countries. Her riveting documentary "SKY AND GROUND" chronicles the journey of one such family as they make their way from Aleppo, Syria, to a refugee camp on the border of Greece and Macedonia, to their eventual goal - Berlin. You can't afford to miss this honest, compelling conversation with one helluva creative, committed woman.
For Jodi Katz, it's all about the beauty business. Capitalizing on her expertise as the first US Creative Director of L'Occitane en Provence, Jodi founded Base Beauty Creative Agency. Its focus is strategic marketing, content creation, packaging design and advertising and includes successful campaigns for: Clinique, Con Air, Weight Watchers, L'Oreal-Paris. Jodi not only talks about her work with giants of the beauty world, but also how she's forged partnerships with emerging brands to help grow their businesses.
Meet Australian-born film editor, writer, director, producer Jessica Thompson, who moved to New York City in 2010 and where she co-founded Stedfast Productions, a collective of visual storytellers who use imagery to entertain, provoke thought and explore the human condition. Jessica, who has several short films under her belt, recently made her feature writing and directing debut with "Light of The Moon." It premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival and won the audience award for Best Narrative Feature. It tells the story of Bonnie, a young, successful Latina architect who is sexually assault walking home after spending the evening with friends at a bar in Brooklyn. There's plenty to talk about with yet another, creative, accomplished, engaging woman.
Money matters to Jill Schlesinger. And to that end, the Certified Financial Planner covers the economy, markets, investing and whatever else contains a $-sign. An Emmy-nominated Business Analyst for CBS News, she shares her expertise on the network's radio and tv stations across the country. You'll want to make time to listen to Jill's jaw-dropping, but empowering stories about what it's been like to be a woman in a man's world.
Jumping off buildings, setting herself on fire, falling down a flight a stairs - all in a days work for stuntwoman Shawnna Thibodeau. Her list of film and tv credits is mind numbing and includes: "X-Men," "War of the Worlds," "Spiderman 3," "The Borne Ultimatum," "Ugly Betty," "Law and Order" and "Oz." Shawnna's been a stunt double for Nicole Kidman, Charlize Theron, Uma Thurman and Carrie Mulligan. There's a lots to talk about with this daredevil who's also a wife and mother of 2 young children.
How many licensed female auctioneers can you name? It's probably fair to say none. Well, that's about to change. Meet Kathleen Guzman, the second licensed woman auctioneer in the U.S. and possibly the world. Kathleen is the Managing Director of Manhattan's Heritage Auctions (the 3rd largest auction house in the world). With more than 40 yeas experience in the art and antiques industry, Kathleen's expertise is much in demand. She's appeared on the PBS series, "Antiques Roadshow," a host on QVC, as well as Oprah, Good Morning America Today and CNN. This is one truly interesting and enlightening conversation.
Chandrika Tandon's a creative, passionate, successful woman and then some! Not only is she a Grammy-nominated, multi-instrumentalist, singer and composer, but also a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. You won't want to miss this inspirational conversation as Chandrika shares her personal journey to enlightenment - balancing life as a singer/composer and a corporate executive.
Meet yet another very talented, funny, creative woman. Amy Engelhardt is a composer, lyricist, singer and teacher. Quite frankly, it would take several paragraphs to list all her credits. And clearly, there will be many more to come. So why not just sit back and enjoy a conversation with this dynamo. You'll be glad you did.
Alison Desir is a force to be reckoned with. Passionate about community, mental health and fitness she got into distance running in 2012 as a way to cope with depression. It turned her life around. She founded Harlem Run and Run 4 All Women, and has been named by Women's Running as one of twenty women who are changing the sport of running, Alison takes a breather to sit down with us and share her inspirational story.
Born and raised in Russia, Liza Moiseeva attended college in the U.S., hoping to swim professionally. She had no idea her focus would change dramatically once she began an international studies program at Virginia's Old Dominion University. She got hooked on non-profits, charity and grass roots programs. After her first job with a global network of micro-finance organizations, Liza went back to school, got an MBA in Finance. Today she is the Co-Founder and Director of GlobeIn, a monthly subscription service of artisan-made products from around the world. Its mission is to help eliminate poverty through fair wages and job creation. Get to know yet another passionate, committed female dynamo!
Amy Marcs has been there, done that. She's an actress, playwright, voice-over artist, professor and ordained interfaith minister/spiritual counselor. And...she's also the writer and star of her critically acclaimed one-woman show, "Nice Tits," during which she shares life as a breast cancer patient and survivor. Amy's story is raw, brutally honest and absolutely hilarious. And quite frankly, so is our conversation. So sit back and get to know this warm, open, funny, creative woman.
Talk about a creative woman! Costume designer Holly Hynes has a whopping 250 ballets to her credit, more than 70 with the New York City ballet where she served as Director of Costumes for 21 years. Holly's designs have been worn by dancers around the world including: The Bolshoi, London's Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theater, National Ballet of Canada and Ballet de l'Opera National de Paris. You won't wan to miss this fascinating back stage tour of the world of ballet.
Painter and printmaker Marlena Vaccaro has been part of the New York City art world for more than 30 years. She also happens to be the creator, director and curator of Manhattan's Carter Burden Gallery, allowing her to marry her two passions: art and advocacy. Carter Burden is one of the only galleries in the world and the only one in New York City with a minimum age requirement. It only accepts submissions from artists 60 and over. Joins us for a fascinating conversation with yet another accomplished and committed woman.
Award-winning director Cynthia Hill's newest documentary series is the 8-part "Road to Race Day," which offers a behind the scenes look at the world of NASCAR racing told through the people who make it happen. Cynthia's made it happen with her films that focus on critical but often overlooked stories of the American South...and beyond. Perhaps you're familiar with "A Chef's Life," her first tv series which has been broadcast on PBS since 2013. It won both a Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award. There's plenty too talk about with this born and bred North Carolinian who also happens to be....a pharmacist!
Manhattan's Rubin Museum of Art gives new meaning to "Night at the Museum." Visitors have Dawn Eshelman to thank for that! As Head of Programs she creates interactive events that explore over-arching ideas in art. They include lectures, movie screenings, live music dance, demonstrations and...sleep-overs! It's Dawn who came up with the Rubin Museum's Dream Over Program. There's plenty to talk about in this behind-the-scenes look at one of New York City's premier museums that is dedicated to the collection, display and preservation of the art and cultures of the Himalayas.
If anyone epitomizes grit, determination and heart it's Dr. Arabia Mollette. Even though she always wanted to be a doctor, achieving that goal was going to be no easy feat for a child from a broken home, surrounded by crime, drugs, alcohol and despair. But she sure as hell did! There's no way you can afford to miss the inspiring, life-affirming, riveting story of Dr. Arabia Mollette.
Originally from Romania, Georgiana Uhlyarik and her parents left when she was a teenager. They spent a year in Israel before moving to Toronto where Georgiana received an undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto and a Masters in Art History from York University. She is Associate Curator of Canadian Art at the Art Gallery of Toronto, home to more than 90,000 works of art. Georgiana's had numerous curatorial collaborations and participated in an international research network exploring feminism and curating. We cover a lot of ground in this engaging and illuminating conversation.
In her decades long career as an award-winning investigative journalist, former television executive and documentary filmmaker, much of Civia Tamarkin's focus has been on criminal and social justice. She's covered stories all around the world, including the fall of Vietnam. Her latest project is "Birthright: A War Story." This riveting, feature length documentary tells the story of "how women have become collateral damage in the aggressive campaign to take control of reproductive health care and to allow states, courts and religious doctrine to govern whether, when and how women will bear children." This is yet another conversation you can't afford to miss.
Sheila Head and Norma Lana, two very funny, accomplished and creative women have joined forces both personally and professionally. They first met at voice over auditions - one thing led to another and 4 years ago they got married. Sheila, an actress, comedy writer and improv pro and Norma, also a writer, actress/producer, media trainer put their talents together and are behind the pulpy comedy, "Hollywood Nurses." Sheila's the co-writer, Norma, the producer. In case you had no idea, "the mid-1950s was the heyday of pulp novels and the unique expression of queer sexuality in paperback." We talk about that and lots of other 'stuff' in this no-holds barred, hilarious, engaging conversation.
Meklit Hadero was just 2 when she, her two older sisters and parents fled to the U.S. from Ethiopia to escape the violence that followed the country's 1974 revolution. They settled in Iowa before moving to Brooklyn, New York where Meklit sang in choirs and was introduced to the music of Billie Holiday. She continued singing while attending Yale University, earning a degree in political science. But music remained an important part of her life. Meklit eventually settled in San Francisco, developing and performing her own sound - a combination of jazz, folk and East African influences; what she describes as, "music coming from in-between spaces." You can't afford to miss this conversation with the talented, passionate, committed artist and activist, MeklitHardero.
This week we revisit our conversation with Susan Fisher Sterling. The National Museum of Women in the Arts, in Washington, D.C. is the only major museum dedicated solely to celebrating the creative contributions of women. Founded in 1987, NMWA not only champions women artists, it also directly addresses the gender imbalance in presenting art worldwide. Susan Fisher Sterling has been with the NMWA since 1988 when she was hired as an associate curator. In 2008, she was named Director. Susan has built her career and the stature of the museum around the message of equity for women through the example of excellence in the arts. Tune in as she shares what that's been like and what's in store as NMWA prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
Rebecca Harrell Tickell's acting career began at a very young age. She went from performing in school plays in Vermont to New York, where at the tender of age of 9, she got a starring role in the Christmas movie classic Prancer. It was on to L.A. and more film and tv roles. In 2007 she moved from acting to pursue her dream of combining environmental activism, filmmaking and production. She and her future husband Josh Tickell joined forces and through their company Green Planet Productions, have made several documentaries that focus on social causes. We cover a lot of ground in our conversation with this creative, committed, passionate woman.
Talk about creativity! Singer, multi-instrumentalist, writer, producer Erin McKeown is known as an artist who dispenses with stylistic boundaries. Her music includes pop, swing, rock, folk, electronic. Erin, who’s performed here, there and everywhere has released 9 studio albums. She has also worked closely with a range of non-profits focusing on passion for media justice and immigration reform. Here’s yet another ‘not to be missed’ conversation.
Lois Robbins is one busy actress. She is perhaps best known for her roles on the daytime soap operas - One Life to Live, Loving, Ryan's Hope, and All My Children. She has also guest starred on Sex and The City, Law and Order, Kingpin and Once and Again. Lois' film credits include Blowtorch, Juvie, and Ithaca, directed by and starring Meg Ryan. Then there's theater. She has starred in a pair of world premier musicals - My History of Marriage and A Time for Love. Lois has also written a one-act play - L.O.V.E.R - Baring it All. And if all that isn't enough, she's writing a novel. Listen in as Lois shares talks about her varied and accomplished acting career.
Singer, songwriter, and Jersey girl Pamela Flores makes soulful, personal, impassioned music. She also uses her music to effect change. She's the co-founder of Lakehouse Voices, which partners with young people to bring music to area senior centers. Pamela also bravely shared her personal story to host a benefit concert to raise awareness against sexual violence. Join us for an honest, yet uplifting conversation with this amazing talented young woman.
Thanks to filmmakers Sabine Krayenbuhl and Zeva Olelbaum, the world can finally meet and get to know Gertrude Bell, considered the most powerful woman in the British Empire in her day. "Letters from Baghdad," their feature documentary, details how this extraordinary woman helped shape the modern Middle East following World War I. In spite of being called the 'female' Lawrence of Arabia, Bell has been virtually written out of its history...until now. There's lots to learn from this fascinating conversation.
For Susan Johnson it's all about entertainment. After a successful career as a music video director, she decided to move over to movies, becoming an independent producer. Her first produced feature, Mean Creek premiered at Sundance and Cannes in 2004 and was released by Paramount Pictures and Focus Features. A total of 10 films followed, but for Susan, the time had come to 'go' behind the camera. She made her feature directorial debut with Carrie Pilby. Based on a best selling young adult novel, it premiered at the 2016 Toronto Film Festival. Susan talks openly and honestly about her career and what it's like being a woman in a man's world.
You're about to meet and get to know one of ballet's most acclaimed dancers. The incomparable Wendy Whalen spent a record-setting 30 years dancing with the New York City Ballet. She's performed just about every major Balanchine role and worked closely with Jerome Robbins; has been a guest artist with the Royal and Kirov Ballets and has danced on nearly every major stage worldwide. Wendy's also the focus of the documentary "Restless Creature," that presents an intimate portrait of her 2014 departure from the NYCB. Simply put: you won't want to miss this conversation!
With a readership of 2 million, Latina Magazine is the largest women’s magazine edited by and for Latin women. It’s the flagship property of Latina Media Venture which, “remains completely focused on celebrating the culture, honoring the past and enriching the future of Latina women in the U.S.” VerkyBaldonado, who has been part of the LMV family since 2009, was named Latina’s Fashion Director in 2013. She has since taken on a more global role as Latina Media Venture’s Editor-At-Large. Join us and get to know this accomplished, engaging, creative woman.
Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with Malky Goldman and Melissa Weisz, two working actresses who abandoned the insular, cloistered, tight-knit Jewish community in which they were raised, to live, work and experience life in modern-day New York.
Malky Goldman and Melissa Weisz grew up in Brooklyn's Hasidic Satmar community - an extremely insular world that has very little to do with secular society. They knew next to nothing about theater, film, tv - all of which fall under the heading of sacrilegious. Both women broke away from the only life they knew - went to college, graduated and eventually became actresses. They also joined forces to form their own film company. Stop what you're doing, and listen in as Malky and Melissa share what it was and is like to follow their dreams.
Betty Buckley in a word - omigod! The Tony award-winning Broadway legend, whose stage, screen, television and concert career has spanned more than 5 decades, talks about life in the limelight and away from the maddening crowd at her Texas retreat. You won't want to miss our conversation with the woman dubbed "The Voice of Broadway."
We cover a lot of territory in our conversation with Kate White. She's the New York Times bestselling author of 11 works of fiction - six of which are part of the Bailey Wiggins mysteries series. The others are psychological thrillers. Kate's also the author of popular career books for women. And, as editor-in-chief of "Cosmopolitan" magazine for 14 years, she's got the street cred. You won't want to miss this honest and wide-ranging 30 minutes.
The credits that follow actress Tina Chen's name are long and varied. A Golden Globe, Emmy and Drama Desk Award nominee, she's been featured on the big and small screens and on stage. She's also a director, producer and composer and is currently working on a musical. There's more. Tina's a lecturer. Heroes of History: Legacy of My Chinese Family chronicles 3 generations of her mother's family and their contributions to the history of China. Needless to say, we cover a lot of ground during our conversation.
Celebrated pop/jazz singer and songwriter Gabrielle Stravelli has been on the receiving end of glowing and well deserved reviews: "a stellar singer of rare depth and intuition," "hotter than the equator," "the real deal." Gabrielle began performing as a soloist with orchestras when she was just 15 and in the years since, has appeared at such iconic venues as Feinstein's/54 Below, Lincoln Center, Carneige Hall and Birdland. We cover a lot of ground in this entertaining conversation, including the release of "Dream Ago," Gabrielle's first major collection of original songs.
You're about to meet Donna Seaman, Editor of Adult Books at Booklist and award-winning author. Her passions for art and literature have always been connected - she's written numerous art books reviews, and has taken that a step further with "Identity Unknown: Rediscovering Seven American Women Artists". Basically ignored by the art world, Donna introduces us to these talented landscape painters, water colorists, sculptors, who, without recognition or nurturing, never stopped creating. Listen in as Donna shares their stories and her own.
As Director of Instruction for the Youth Leadership Initiative at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, it's Meg Heubeck's mission/job to teach civil discourse to those who have yet to vote - our nation's young people. And to that end, Meg has connected with 70,000 teachers across the country, providing them with full lesson plans to help prepare students, as young as kindergarteners, to be active participants in American democracy. In a word, Meg is amazing. Tune in and find out for yourself.
She's baaaack! But this time award-winning director Ferne Pearlstein's joined by veteran comic Judy Gold, one of the many bold-faced names featured in The Last Laugh. Using the scope of the Holocaust, this entertaining, thought-provoking, and edgy documentary explores what is and isn't off-limits in comedy. The Last Laugh opens in Manhattan on March 3rd nation wide on March 17th. www.lastlaughfilm.us
Here's a piece of art history you may not know. Telfair Museums, located in Savannah's beautiful historic district, happens to be the oldest public art museum in the South. Founded by a woman (!), it is comprised of the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Owens-Thomas House, - a National Historic Landmark, and the Jepson Center, devoted to contemporary art. Lisa Grove is Director/CEO of Telfair Museums. Her leadership, vision and guidance have helped make Telfair Museums a dynamic center for the local community, serving more than 180,000 visitors each year. Join Lisa on this 'insider' tour of these three special and distinct sites.
Lori Sokol's list of credentials is long and impressive. A psychologist, scholar, writer, mover and shaker, Lori is President of Sokol Media, which publishes a variety of business magazines that advocate for diversity in the workplace. She is also Executive Director of Women's eNews. Founded in 1999, its mission is to 'report stories of women and girls to create a more equitable world, a world that honors, respects and supports the lives of women and girls.' The match is a perfect one, since Lori is, someone who has, "dedicated my entire career to advocating for gender rights through the media."
Edris Nicholls was fascinated watching her grandmother work her magic as a hair stylist on the island of St. Vincent, and knew at a young age, she wanted to do exactly that. At 15 Edris joined her mother in New York...and eventually perfected her craft at several salons, later working as a freelance stylist in Paris and Milan. Edris opened her own salon in 2003 in Manhattan's Flatiron District. Known for her aesthetic and multicultural approach to her craft, Edris Salon caters to a very diverse clientele. Here's yet another conversation with creative woman who has so much to share.
It's been all about Broadway for Florida native Jennifer Tepper. She grew up devouring Playbill magazines, listened endlessly to musical cast albums, highlighting shows she'd see once she came to the Big Apple. At 18, Jennifer moved to the city to attend NYU. She's been here since. Jennifer parlayed her passion into a career - working for Broadway and Off-Broadway producers, directors and today this 30-something is a musical theater historian, write and producer and....is also the Director of Programming at the esteemed Feinstein's 54/Below and author of The Untold Stories of Broadway book series. Needless to say....Jennifer's got plenty to say!
Johanne Bryant Reid managed to merge her business career with her passion for the arts. While working at Merrill Lynch as Manager of its Global Human Resources Department, she joined the Board of the Romare Bearden Foundation. After serving as primary fundraiser for 7 years, she was named co-director in 2009. The foundation was created in 1990 as a non-profit, aimed at preserving and perpetuating the legacy of this pre-eminent African/American artist. So the Reid/Bearden match makes perfect sense. He made art, she makes sure it lives on. Sit back and enjoy this engaging conversation.
You're about to meet Roz Mays, a personal trainer/gym instructor who also happens to be an award-winning pole dancer. And.. describes herself this way, "I'm black, I'm plus size and I'm a woman - that's a triple threat in fitness. I'm the anti-Christ. I'm just missing being a lesbian Muslim and then everyone can hate me!" Sit back and enjoy this refreshingly open and honest conversation. You're gonna love her!
Alexandra Vassilaros has acted on stage, in film, and on television, but her passion is playwriting. Her most recent work, "Big Sky," about a well-to-do family, had its world LA's Geffen Playhouse in the spring of 2016. Her other plays include "Omnium Gatherum," a 9/11-born collaboration with Theresa Rebeck. It was a 2004 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Alex shares what it's like to be on stage and to write for the stage. There's a plenty to learn from this frank and fascinating conversation.
Internationally known American soprano Amy Shoremount-Obra made her debut at The Met in 2014 as "First Lady" in Mozart's "The Magic Flute." She's been back since and this year performs in two new operas. Amy's sung in venues in the States and Europe. Tune in as Amy takes us on her impressive 'operatic' journey.
Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room has been a fixture on historic and beautiful Jones Street in Savannah, Georgia since 1943. Open Monday-Friday from 11:00am-2:00pm, diners wait in line for seats at one of the large tables-for-ten shared by strangers. Once inside, they're greeted by an assortment of delicious home-cooked Southern dishes. You're about to meet Marcia Thompson, whose late grandmother, Sema, is Mrs. Wilkes, considered a pioneer for women in the restaurant business. This is a fascinating and mouth watering conversation about love, family and history.
Khuraira Musa's career as a successful make up artist and creator of a cosmetics line that bears her name is a far cry from her humble beginnings in a small village in Northern Nigeria. Life began in an orphanage after her mother died in childbirth. She was later adopted by an aunt, who had very little. They lived in a mud hut with no electricity or running water. What Khuraira says she didn't lack, was a tremendous amount of love. Listen in as she shares the details of her life in Nigeria and here in the States in this riveting, no-holds barred conversation.
Veteran award winning television reporter Pat Battle is a human dynamo. WNBC-TV's senior New Jersey correspondent, she's been covering numerous breaking news stories with her uniquely personal touch since joining the station in 1996. Pat won a national Emmy and Edward R. Murrow award as part of Channel 4's team coverage of Hurricane Sandy in 2102. She also co-anchors WNBC's Weekend Today. Pat has been recognized for lending both her voice and support to numerous public service organizations across the tri-state. This is one engaging, frank, funny and fascinating conversation.
Kristin McCarthy Parker is one busy, creative woman. She's a freelance director in New York City and a founding member of the theater group, Recent Cutbacks. Her niche? Directing top-notch theatrical parodies of blockbuster films. They include, in no particular order: KEVIN!!! (Home Alone), Fly You Fools (Lord of the Rings) and Hold On To Your Butts (you may recall that was the line Samuel Jackson spoke not once, but twice in Jurassic Park). It was named the #3 Comedy of 2014 by Time Out New York Magazine. Kristin is smart, funny and breath of fresh air.
Meet Tamra Ryan, CEO of the Women's Bean Project. Founded in 1989, this Denver-based non profit is dedicated to helping women break the cycle of chronic unemployment and poverty through on-the-job-training and life skills coaching. Tamra defines her role as the visionary leader and organization's spokeswoman, a position she's eminently qualified for with more than 20 years of marketing and sales experience. Products made by Women's Bean Project include mixes for bean soup, chilli, corn bread, cookies and brownies and are sold at womensbeanproject.com, amazon.com, walmart.com and nearly 1,000 retail stores across the U.S. Here's yet another conversation you won't want to miss!
The National Museum of Women in the Arts, in Washington, D.C. is the only major museum dedicated solely to celebrating the creative contributions of women. Founded in 1987, NMWA not only champions women artists, it also directly addresses the gender imbalance in presenting art worldwide. Susan Fisher Sterling has been with the NMWA since 1988 when she was hired as an associate curator. In 2008, she was named Director. Susan has built her career and the stature of the museum around the message of equity for women through the example of excellence in the arts. Tune in as she shares what that's been like and what's in store as NMWA prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
Founded in 1992, The Innocence Project is the #1 organization working for criminal justice reform in the United States. To date, 344 people have been exonerated by DNA testing, including 20 who served time on death row. Deputy Director Meryl Schwartz leads the work of the legal team, policy advocates and research staff. It's a perfect match. Meryl has always focused on issues rooted in income inequality, criminal and juvenile justice, education reform and youth and workforce development. Tune in to this not-to-be-missed conversation.
TD Mitchell shares her passion and talent for storytelling and advocacy through several channels. She is perhaps best known as a writer and story editor for the acclaimed TV series "Army Wives." TD is also a playwright. The world premier of "Queens for a Year," which opened the 2016-2017 season at Hartford Stages, focuses on four generations of women who served in the Marine Corps. The play is riveting, thought-provoking and sobering. We cover a lot of ground in 30 minutes.
Kristine Bendul's career has crossed over from ballet, to Broadway to dance companies, to music videos, film, television and teaching. Oh, she's also a published children's book author. Kristine's journey is a fascinating, heart wrenching and clearly rewarding one that she shares openly and honestly. Tune in for yet another no-holds barred conversation with a multi-dimensional, creative woman.
Meet Ashley Nicole Black, the Emmy-nominated comedy writer/correspondent for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, which in case you didn't know, is not only the first political talk show hosted by a woman, but has THE most diverse writing staff in late night history! Ashley began her comedy career at Second City in Chicago after earning a Masters in performance studies at Northwestern. She dropped out of a PhD program to pursue comedy and the rest is history! Sit back, tune in and let Ashley make your day!
A music teacher since 1980, Lisha Lercari is the driving force behind Music and the Brain, a hands-on program that teaches public school children to read and play music through classic keyboard instruction. Neurological research links music and cognitive development, so when children receive sequential music instruction, it impacts their proficiency in language, reading, math, etc. Since this music teacher on a mission founded and created Music and the Brain in 1997, hundreds of thousands of youngsters in grades K-5, have benefitted from the program, in schools throughout New York City, as well as other cities in the U.S. and abroad.
Her face may not be familiar, but her voice is. A successful and much-in-demand versatile voice over artist, Debbie Irwin's the voice of the Statue of Liberty, has been featured on countless radio and tv commercials, sales and marketing videos, corporate and medical narrations, on hold message and phone prompts, as well as live announcing and museum audio tours. Listen in as Debbie talks about her varied and versatile career.
Meet Ferne Pearlstein, yet another creative women with a long list of credits behind her name. A prize-winning cinematographer, Ferne's also a writer/director, producer and editor whose films have been shown nationally and internationally. Her most recent feature documentary, "The Last Laugh," features among others: Mel Brooks, Carl and Rob Reiner, Sara Silverman, Susie Essman and Auschwitz survivor Renee Firestone. The film explores what is and is not off-limits in comedy and includes rare archival footage of cabarets in concentration camps. "The Last Laugh" had its world premier at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival. There's plenty to talk about, so get comfortable and tune in!
A Marketing Executive whose business career has spanned more than 25 years, Marla Isackson has created innovative campaigns for Citibank, American Express, Barnes and Noble and WebMD. She has also been a longtime supporter of women's initiatives. Combining both, Marla founded Like A Boss Girls (likeabossgirls.com). The website with the catchy title, provides young women with the tools, information and inspiration to define, explore and achieve their goals to become entrepreneurs, leaders and social activists. She knows young women have the strength, determination and talent to make a difference - a big difference.
Singer Vivian Sessoms makes a return appearance - and we couldn't be more pleased! An entertainer with a long and impressive resume, Vivian's new album "LIFE" explores the themes of love, loss and life. The first single, the Billie Holiday classic "Strange Fruit," deals with the timeless and potent issues of racism and social inequality. "LIFE" also features appearances by some of the most talented musicians and performers to compose today's jazz scene. It's been quite a ride for Vivian, so listen in and catch up.
Jane Golden is a powerhouse. An artist, visionary, activist, educator, author and expert on urban transformation through art, she is the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. It began in 1984 as an anti-graffiti initiative and under Jane's direction has created more than 38-hundred landmark works of art. It is the country's largest mural program. We couldn't be more thrilled that she shares her story with us!
How many professional, classical female trombonists can you name? Let's go out on a limb and say, none. That's about to change. Let us introduce Rebecca Cherian, co-principal trombone of the Pittsburgh Symphony since 1989. The road to being the highest paid, highest ranked woman trombonist in a top ten U.S. orchestra has been a hard-fought journey for this talented, passionate, trail-blazing musician. As you're about to find out, Rebecca's one amazing woman.
Get up close and personal with EMME, the world's first curvy supermodel, whose career spans more than 2 decades. She's a recognized advocate for positive female body image, giving women a platform to feel beautiful and empowered. A tv personality, author, businesswoman and creator of her own clothing lines, EMME was the first model invited to appear before a Congressional subcommittee looking into how to increase public awareness of eating and body disorders. Needless to say, there's plenty to talk about!
A return appearance for creative and multi-talented Broadway/off-Broadway actress, director, producer, dancer, wardrobe supervisor and co-founder of the not-for-profit Working Artists Theater Project, Jessica Dermody. Even though this is conversation #2, there is no shortage of topics as we discuss Jessica's passion and love of the theater arts. Her enthusiasm, drive and commitment are both contagious and inspirational.
Barb Collins and Marsha Wallace, two amazing, inspirational and committed women. They are the co-founders of Dining for Women, the largest educational giving circle that connects people in the West with projects supporting women and girls living in extreme poverty in the developing world. Thanks to their tireless efforts and drive to make the world a better place, Dining for Women has 8,000 grassroots members in just about every state and 6 countries, who meet in home and community-based chapters. Members donate what they would have spent dining out. Since it's founding in 2003, DFW has raised more than 5 million dollars. Marsha and Barb will 'blow you away!'
What's it like working as a foreign correspondent? You're about to find out. Alexis Okeowo spent a good part of her career in Nigeria, Uganda and Mexico freelancing for various publications/organizations, including the New York Times Magazine, Bloomberg Businessweek, The Financial Times and the international news agency, Agence France-Press. Alexis, who joined the New Yorker as a staff writer in 2015, is working on a book: A Moonless, Starless Sky: Womoen and Men Fighting Extremism in Africa. She shares the challenges and rewards of global reporting as a woman in what's typically thought of as a man's world.
When it comes to public education Harriet Isecke's been there, done that. During her more than 38 year career, she's been a teacher, curriculum director, educational consultant, grant writer, children books author and has been listed in Who's Who Among American Educators four times. In 2010 Harriet began a new venture - Readorium. It's a web-based supplemental program aimed at teaching students reading comprehension skills using fun, easy to digest concepts. Readorium won the 2016 National CODiE Award for Best Reading/English/Language Arts Solution.
Born in Nairobi and raised in both Kenya and New York City, Agunda Okeyo describes herself as a Pan-African New Yorker. A writer, producer, filmmaker and activist, Agunda is the creator and force behind the monthly production of "Sisters of Comedy: at Caroline's on Broadway. It's a 'who's who' of black women in stand-up. Agunda's written about race, gender, politics, culture and film for numerous publications including Salon, The Daily Beast, Indiewire's Women and Hollywood blog. This year she produced a benefit show supporting an Equal Rights Amendment aimed at assuring gender equality and also in 2016, was named a Progressive Women's Voices Fellow with the Women's Media Center.
Actress Ilana Levine's stage, film and tv career has spanned more than 25 years. On Broadway she's best known as Lucy Van Pelt in the revival of "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown." Among her film credits: "Confessions of a Shopaholic," "Kissing Jessica Stein" and the "Nanny Diaries." TV appearances include "Seinfeld," "Law and Order" and "NYPD Blue." She's now part of the podcast universe having launched "Little Known Facts with Ilana Levine." Some of her celebrity guests are recent Tony winner Reed Birney, Cynthia Nixon, John Slattery and BD Wong. Ilana's interview style is unfiltered and uniquely funny and so is this conversation.
Hear what life is like as Pastry Chef of the venerated Balthazar Bakery - where thousands of croissants, baguettes, scones, breads, tarts, cakes, pies and mini pastries are lovingly made daily at its Englewood, New Jersey 14,000 square foot facility. Amanda Pacheco, who earned degrees in both Culinary and Pastry Arts from Johnson & Wales, began working at Balthazar as a pastry cook, worked her way up to sous pastry chef and in 2015, snagged her dream job - Pastry Chef. Amanda, who supervises a staff of 8, gets to work at 5:00am 5 days a week, including holidays - Thanksgiving, New Year's Day, Easter. But, it's a labor of love.Grab an iced tea and a galette and check out this mouth-watering conversation.
Sandi Klein's Conversations with Creative Women is excited to offer bonus content from our contributors. First out, our own social media master Melanie Breault offers her true-life story of a New York City apartmnt she credits with saving her life. It's a story of heartache, loss, and creating family in the unlikeliest of places.
From a young age, sports played an important role in Yolanda Jackson's life and continues to do so today. She's the founder and CEO of Yolanda L. Jackson and Associates, a sports marketing company that represents female athletes - a profession built on 30 years experience. Twenty of those years were spent working at the Women's Sports Foundation - the brainchild of tennis great Billie Jean King. You'll want to hear what Yolanda has to say about the current and future status of women in sports.
Ana Castillo, a poet, award-winning novelist, short story writer, essayist, editor and playwright, is one of the most celebrated voices in contemporary Chicana literature. In her most recent book, Black Dove: Mama, Mi'jo and Me, she details her life as a single, brown, feminist parent, while at the same time, describes her against-all-odds career as a writer and activist. Join us for an enlightening, eye-opening and fascinating conversation.
Priscilla Anany hit the big time - the first time. Her feature, "childreN of the mountaiN," premiered at this year's Tribeca Film Festival. It's the first time a Ghanian film debuted at the prestigious New York event. By the way, she won the Best New Narrative Director Award. Priscilla, who came to the States in 2003, earned a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina and a Master's in Corporate Communications from NYU. She divides her time between New York and Ghana where she runs i60Productions, the film company she founded in 2011. There's plenty to talk about - so sit back and tune in.
Allison Michael Orenstein's love affair with a camera began when she was 15 and has been going strong ever since. The New York City-based portrait photographer's work has graced the covers and pages of "Vanity Fair," "Esquire," "People," "Vogue," "Elle," "New York" Magazine, "Art Forum," "The Wall Street Journal," "The Hollywood Reporter," "Billboard," and "Town & Country." She's photographed such notables as Chuck Close, Philip Glass, Stella McCartney, John Waters, Billy Crudup, Amy Schumer - the list goes on and on. Enjoy meeting and hearing from this passionate and very creative woman.
Meet and get to know Anastasia Higginbotham, writer, illustrator and creator of the children's book series, "Ordinary Terrible Things." It tells the stories of youngsters who navigate trouble with "their senses sharp and souls intact. Help may come from family, counselors, teachers and dreams, but it's the children who find their own way." Anastasia's first book, "Divorce is the Worst," published by the Feminist Press was followed by "Death is Stupid." Both books tackle very critical, sensitive topics and are must reads for both children and adults.
Kate Wolff likes to make people laugh. She spends a lot of time doing so. Kate's a regular at New York Comedy Club, Broadway Comedy Club, Stand Up New York and Greenwich Comedy Club. She's also been on Tru Tv's hit series World's Dumbest, Red Eye on Fox and Nickelodeon's NickMom's Night Out. Kate also has her own podcast, Invasion of Privacy. Her career didn't begin in front of a mike, but she did have an audience. Kate was an art teacher, a job she hated and eventually quit to follow her dream of doing stand up. So sit down and listen in.
Victoria Herrmann's a woman on a mission - and what a mission it is. The 25 year old climate change specialist is a Bill and Melinda Gates Cambridge University Scholar and PhD student at the Scott Polar Research Institute. She also happens to be the Managing Director of the Arctic Institute, an inter-disciplinary, independent think tank made up of young professionals who work from locations around the world and who represent expertise in many different disciplines. When it comes to saving the planet, our conversation with Victoria is one you absolutely CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS.