Passion to Power

Michelle Zeitlin
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Michelle Zeitlin is a creative catalyst for conversation, a Talent and Literary manager, producer "who wears many hats," and director/choreographer. She's an expert in the ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, BOOK PUBLISHING and ORIGINAL CONTENT spaces, currently developing multiple original shows and attractions. She "works and plays" in dance, drama, music, yoga and wellness. She is known as a career strategist. These conversations are with #bigshots in television, film, stage. Follow your Yellow Brick Road to Success and share these episodes! #passiontopower And BOOK a Workshop, Clinic or Keynote with MZ.

  1. 3d ago

    Ballet’s biggest problem is not technique—it is culture. Aaron Thao reveals why the future of dance belongs to artists who can collaborate, speak up, and build safer spaces for freelance dancers!

    New York to London- CHOREOGRAPHER, Aaron Thao is creating new work through incubators and creative collaboration, offering ballet work- "it may not pay 1000 pounds (British GBP) but there is money for performances- these are professionals and should be compensated..." Some Key Conversational Point(e)s: Social media, ballet audiences, and the athletic side of danceHow a modern class led Aaron toward balletFrom medical school to dance medicine and New York trainingBuilding a freelance career across dance and side jobsWhy London’s freelance scene and talent pool drew him in..Leading with kindness in a toxic ballet cultureA NON Traditional PATH to DANCE as a CAREER- take a listen- Violin, Medical School, Business, and BALLET! For More on MORE ZAP please visit www.morezap.comor www.passion-power.comIf you're in LONDON September 12/13 check out the performances--Sadler's Wells TheatreAnd GALA performances in upstate New York= listen and jot down the deets.If you are interested in taking a workshop or clinic, contact us; we design Creative Projects that are customized.Publicists can pitch MOREZAP@GMAIL.COM Names mentioned in the opening remarks include social media influencers/principal dancers, Skyler Brandt, ABT, Isabella Boylston, ABT new mom and still twirling.. Stephen McRae, Royal Ballet. Note; Michelle Zeitlin, Host of Passion to Power is also a former ballet dancer, who has performed in NYC, Russia and in Europe, including with the Joffrey Ballet Concert Group and Kirov Ballet (Leningrad)

    Ballet’s biggest problem is not technique—it is culture. Aaron Thao reveals why the future of dance belongs to artists who can collaborate, speak up, and build safer spaces for freelance dancers!

  2. Aug 3

    Tony-Winning Choreographer Christopher Gattelli on Broadway Success, Theater Trends, and Inspiration

    "It's always great to have cards in your sleeve because these days it's everything. There's so many things you have to do. Any extra is helpful because if you can play an instrument, it only adds to the soup.” Discover insights from Tony winner Christopher Gatelli, known for his work on Newsies and Schmigadoon. This episode explores the evolution of musical theater, the characteristics of today's triple threats, and the power of mentorship in the arts.In this episode: Chris Gatelli shares his journey to winning a Tony and his recent projectsThe changing landscape of musical theater The importance of ensemble work and versatile performers in modern productionsReflections on mentorship and the influence of choreographer Scott SalmanBehind-the-scenes stories from Schmigadoon and NewsiesThe impact of theater education and training todayInsights into directing and choreographing for TV vs. BroadwayThe future of musical theater and emerging talent Tony Winning Christopher Gattelli shares his views on Schmigadoon, the Broadway show and the TV show he staged prior. What are triple threats? What catches his eye in auditions?  "It's like the main thing, the main thing when you, when you walk into a room is like, is just be as prepared as you can be because the one, because as I said earlier, like 99% doesn't have anything to do with you. So as long as you can walk out of that room and go, I was present for the combination." What inspires him? GUYS and DOLLS, Jerome Robbins Broadway, the Golden Age of Musicals. Westside Story to Billion Dollar Baby...as a choreographer and director, he looks for people who are "present." Be a "quadruple threat" and that means being kind! Be prepared, show up and be yourself. In this episode, we feature two performers who have valuable questions about the business of show.  Emmy is an aspiring actress and dancer who studies in Southern CA and loves musicals! Gabe's base is Nashville and tours all over the US and abroad as a multi-instrumentalist, singer and actor for film & TV. He had questions for Chris Gattelli about "focus." Listen UP! Don't miss a word. You'll get kernels of gold. Shout out to Stephanie Pope Kenny OrtegaCohen BrothersMatt WestJerry MitchellCynthia OnrubiaJeff Amsdenand RIP, Scott Salmon who inspired both host, Michelle Zeitlin in her early Broadway audition days and Chris Gattelli who also had his own touching memories of Mr. Salmon. "I've been there...you get more with kindness." Says Gattelli who is very kind himself,, works to be generous with advice and encourages his performers by being fair. "Can you do this 8 times a week?" Follow him on socials and buy a ticket to see a Broadway show!  Follow Michelle Zeitlin on socials, LinkedIn and here are the websites for her companies:  ⁠www.passion-power.com⁠ ⁠www.morezap.com⁠

    Tony-Winning Choreographer Christopher Gattelli on Broadway Success, Theater Trends, and Inspiration

  3. Jul 1

    BETH FELDMAN: Communications Pro, Publicist, "Knitter!" -How this SVP Helps Solve Problems and Gets to YES

    Takeaways • The Butterfly Effect: How Change Shapes Success with Beth Feldman, SVP of Comms, NexStar Media, CW NetworkSome of the Topic Points:* Self-advocacy and confidence are crucial for career advancement.* Embrace change and see transformation as a 'butterfly effect' of growth.* Kindness and effective communication are key leadership skills.* Networking and community involvement open doors and create opportunities.* Being fearless and early ambition can set the foundation for success.* Innovative approaches in media, including streaming and sports, drive growth.* Mentorship and collaboration are vital for personal and professional development.* Balancing personal life with career ambitions requires resilience.* Continuous learning and trend spotting keep you ahead in your field.* Authenticity and kindness foster stronger relationships and leadership influence.Michelle Zeitlin and Beth Feldman enjoyed an hour of vibrant and straight forward conversation as entrepreneurs, writers, musical theatre lovers and moms. PASSION TO POWER is a podcast for CREATIVES of all ages- especially those aspiring for careers in the arts, entertainment, media and music. Beth Feldman talks about her "transformative" career. Check out her bio on LinkedIn for more info.Michelle Zeitlin is the President of More Zap Productions & Management LLC and host of PASSION TO POWER (www.passion-power.com) For more on our people and projects, see www.morezap.com If you're a publicist and wish to pitch your GUEST for this podcast, please send a proposal to: MoreZap@gmail.com Thanks for Listening!

    BETH FELDMAN: Communications Pro, Publicist, "Knitter!" -How this SVP Helps Solve Problems and Gets to YES

  4. May 14

    Triple Threats, Working with Michael Bennett, and Doing Eleven Broadway Shows, a Conversation with Stephanie Pope

    Triple Threat DIVA, that's what she is and much more... Stephanie Pope is an actress, singer, dancer, writer, director, choreographer, producer, voice actor, performance coach and  a musical theater veteran with a career spanning over 35 years. She has appeared in over 10 Broadway shows and recently received both Connecticut Critics Circle Award and Regional Theater Award nominations for her portrayals of Camila Rosario in Lin Manuel Miranda's In The Heights at Playhouse On Park Theater and Tanya in North Carolina Theater's Production of Mama Mia!. Her Broadway and touring credits include the revival of Pippin, for which she received an Astaire Award nomination, an ACCA Award and the beloved Legacy Robe, Chicago (Velma Kelly), Thoroughly Modern Millie (Muzzy Van Hossmere), Fosse (Leading Player), Smokey Joe's Cafe (Brenda), A Funny Thing… Forum (Gymnasia), Kiss of The Spider Woman (Stand-by for Ms. Chita Rivera), Jelly's Last Jam (The Hunnies) and The Will Rogers Follies...just to name a few.Michelle Zeitlin and Stephanie Pope kept crossing paths, but never worked together, just around one another, Stephanie is back in Los Angeles May 20th, 2026 in a one night CABARET performance, directed by legendary director/performer, Ben Vereen. Stephanie currently teaches hot yoga in addition to producing and teaching master classes in the Verdon/Fosse style and method. She has worked alongside some amazing theatre and TV talents, and she has aspirations to do a bit more!At the time of recording, she is doing her one woman show "Livin’ It Up":https://catalinajazzclub.com/tm-event/stephanie-pope-livin-it-up-broadway-soul-singer/You can read more about this talented and elegant lady on her website.Michelle Zeitlin hosts Passion to Power and she is a talent and literary representative, a former triple threat herself. Morezap.comPassion-Power.com

    Triple Threats, Working with Michael Bennett, and Doing Eleven Broadway Shows, a Conversation with Stephanie Pope

  5. May 1

    Book Biz: Passion to Publishing, Gretchen Young

    From Hyperion, the publishing arm of Walt Disney, to Hachette, to launching her own IMPRINT, REGALO PRESS. GRETCHEN YOUNG says "how can I prove to everyone else and to myself that these stories are worthy?" Now that she's working for her own shingle. She has nurtured, coached, mentoried and launched 65 authors. "I've never seen the kind of marketing of an author...the guerrilla marketing, the HUSTLE." She is releasing a couple new TITLES this month including "Little Red Flags," fiction. She says this author is so hilarious and clever in the way she is getting her book out there to pre-order! She was in TV NEWS before book publishing and used to be an "ambulance chaser" for the story, for the guests to book for GOOD MORNING AMERICA. Now she is letting the authors help - PR doesn't work so much anymore- millions of books are released each year- for real- so how do you BREAK THRU? "Our authors are hugging each other..it fills my heart!" Gretchen Young loves to mentor and help writers learn about the book business and she is so proud of the debut authors she has placed on her list. "I'll walk authors thru the process...whatever I can do!" You can reach out to Gretchen: https://posthillpress.com/regalo-press and on Regalo's instagram or her LinkedIn. Or you can email directly: gretchen@regalopress.com "I try to be warm and fuzzy." She discusses literary agents, formats, conventions of submissions and proposals. Do not miss a word- Listen UP! If you're interested in learning more about MORE ZAP PRODUCTIONS & MANAGEMENT LLC, you can visit www.morezap.com and if you're interested in pitching yourself or your client as a guest of this podcast, reach out to Michelle and TEAM at www.passion-power.com BTW Regalo means "gift" in Spanish and Gretchen studied Spanish literature in college. She has published/edited some amazing writers- some very big names- but she's also excited about editing with the new crop. "Know your voice." "What's your JAM?" Here are kernels of gold! Share these episodes with your friends, colleagues, and students in the arts, entertainment, media. #passiontopower We are offering WORKSHOPS and International on line and in-person EVENTS with PASSION TO POWER. Reach out for more info! Morezapwave@gmail.com

    Book Biz: Passion to Publishing, Gretchen Young

  6. Apr 16

    AI Innovation: Kerri Zane’s Creative Career Journey

    KERRI ZANE AI Innovation: Kerri Zane’s Creative Career JourneySummaryIn this engaging interview, Kerri Zane shares her extensive experience in reality TV, her innovative ventures into AI in media, and invaluable advice for aspiring producers and storytellers. Discover how she navigates the evolving landscape of entertainment, the role of AI, and tips for success in the industry. Sound Bites "Never give up. I never stop. I never give up.""When someone says no to me, that's when I get started."Chapters Setting the Stage: Introduction and Background Embracing AI in Media: A New Era The Art of Production: Roles and Responsibilities Reality TV: Crafting Stories and Conflict Navigating the Pitch Process: Tips for Success The Evolution of Content Creation: From Traditional to AI The Importance of Human Creativity in AI Advice for Aspiring Creatives: Never Give Up Books and Personal Growth: Sharing Experiences Closing Thoughts: The Future of Storytelling How women are rewriting the rules—no apologies needed Drop a 💪 if you agree that being strong isn’t just okay, it’s vital.In a world that constantly questions women’s roles—whether in media, tech, or leadership—success often means breaking the mold without guilt. Kerri Zane shares what it truly means to stand your ground, especially as a woman in male-dominated spaces. She reminds us: "When people say no, that’s when you get started." Her story isn’t just about career wins or AI—it's about resilience, assertiveness, and owning your voice, whatever your age or stage. Want to know how she’s empowering the next generation of women? Even in tech—her secret weapon is fierce education and community.Remember: the most powerful thing you can do is claim your space with confidence.What’s your biggest challenge in advocating for yourself as a woman? Drop your thoughts below—let’s talk.Reachout to Kerri: https://lumovex.com/ Michelle Zeitlin (host and producer of Passion to Power) and Kerri Zane are both Z like ZEBRAS and two women with a Z in their names- they are creating the ZEITGEIST! #passiontopower all your favorite Podcast Platforms ⁠www.passion-power.com⁠⁠www.morezap.com⁠Thanks for listening! And please share with your friends and colleagues. While on YOUR Yellow Brick Road to Success, LiSTEN UP! for Kernels of Gold.

    AI Innovation: Kerri Zane’s Creative Career Journey

  7. Feb 13

    SMART TV for Kids- Carin Greenberg, PRODUCER

    Carin Greenberg’s journey in creating "Weather Hunters" encapsulates the spirit of resilience and creativity in children’s programming. Her experiences remind us that perseverance, collaboration, and a passion for storytelling are crucial in bringing educational content to life. As we celebrate this new series, it stands as a testament to the importance of engaging young minds with knowledge about the world around them. Carin is a multi-award winner for her TV work as writer and producer. She tells us about her Emmys, Annies and Writers Guild recognitions and is also generous in sharing credit with collaborators in development, writing, production in live action and animation. A die hard NEW YORKER she works from her studio/office and "doesn't even have to take the subway." But she does love to walk Manhattan and she has other artistic hobbies and passions. "Our Creative team for Weather Hunters spans from Canada to New York, proving that storytelling knows no boundaries! " #Animation #Collaboration #WeatherHunters #PBSKids #GlobalTeam #Storytelling #Creativity #KidsTV #AlRoker #BehindTheScenes   💡 Ever thought about how many people it takes to create a beloved children’s show? 🤔   From animators in Canada to directors in NYC, it truly takes a village! Join us in celebrating the launch of "Weather Hunters"!     #WeatherHunters #PBSKids #Animation #Teamwork #KidsShows #AlRoker #CreativeJourney #BehindTheScenes #Storytelling #FamilyFun   🔍 What does it take to get a show on the air? 🎬   Join us as we dive into the challenges and triumphs of creating "Weather Hunters," a series that took years to bring to life!   What challenges have you overcome in your creative journey? Share your story! 💬  Listen to all the Episodes and Please Share with friends and colleagues. Host is Michelle Zeitlin, President and founder of MORE ZAP (morezap.com)More Zap and MZ is available to bring Passion to Power to you- panel discussions, workshops and customized clinics about the arts and entertainment. #passiontopower contact us MoreZap@gmail.com #WeatherHunters #PBSKids #Animation #CreativeProcess #AlRoker #KidsTV #Storytelling #Inspiration #Challenges #FamilyEntertainment

    SMART TV for Kids- Carin Greenberg, PRODUCER

  8. 12/30/2025

    CREATIVE RABBI: Yitzi Weiner

    Creative Rabbi Both Michelle and Rabbi Yitzi discuss how their passions have empowered them in their careers, with a focus on teaching, uplifting others, and creative expression. Balancing ValuesRabbi Yitzi talks about the Jewish tradition of asking questions and balancing competing values, drawing parallels to the story of "Fiddler on the Roof." Summary In this engaging conversation, Michelle Zeitlin interviews Yitzi Wiener, a rabbi and media entrepreneur, exploring his journey from aspiring architect to rabbi, and now to a media figure. They discuss the importance of teaching, storytelling, and the role of questions in learning. Yitzi shares insights on journalism, the impact of current events on personal health, and the dynamics of family life. The conversation culminates in a reflection on passion and purpose, emphasizing the importance of uplifting others through meaningful work. Takeaways Yitzi's journey from aspiring architect to rabbi was driven by a desire to help others.The role of questions in Judaism encourages deeper thinking and engagement.Storytelling is a powerful tool for learning and sharing experiences.Yitzi aims to create uplifting content through his media ventures.The importance of focusing on commonalities rather than divisions in society.Navigating the challenges of journalism in a polarized world is crucial.Personal reflections on current events highlight the emotional toll of global issues.Family dynamics change as children grow and learn to support each other.Passion for teaching and uplifting others is central to Yitzi's mission.Finding purpose in one's passions can lead to a fulfilling life."A question makes you think." Turning the Tables: Yitzi Wiener's Journey Becoming a Rabbi: The Path to Smicha (or Semicha)  Teaching and Media: Bridging Two Worlds Authority Magazine: A New Kind of Journalism The Importance of Questions in Judaism Stories as a Learning Tool The Role of Journalism in Today's Society Creative Writing and Community Engagement Navigating Current Events and Jewish Identity Reflection and GoalsMichelle Zeitlin reflects on the past year and discusses her excitement about the interview with Rabbi Yitzi Weiner, highlighting the importance of reflection, goal setting, and learning from experiences in the arts and entertainment industry.Rabbi Yitzi Weiner's JourneyRabbi Yitzi shares his journey to becoming a rabbi, emphasizing the extensive learning required and his focus on teaching Torah to help others live a refined life.Authority MagazineRabbi Yitzi discusses the founding of Authority Magazine, aiming to provide empowering and nourishing stories, contrasting with the often negative and addictive nature of traditional news.Importance of StoriesThe conversation highlights the power of stories in teaching and learning, with Rabbi Yitzi emphasizing that stories are a fundamental way humans learn and connect across generations.

    CREATIVE RABBI: Yitzi Weiner
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4.8
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Michelle Zeitlin is a creative catalyst for conversation, a Talent and Literary manager, producer "who wears many hats," and director/choreographer. She's an expert in the ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, BOOK PUBLISHING and ORIGINAL CONTENT spaces, currently developing multiple original shows and attractions. She "works and plays" in dance, drama, music, yoga and wellness. She is known as a career strategist. These conversations are with #bigshots in television, film, stage. Follow your Yellow Brick Road to Success and share these episodes! #passiontopower And BOOK a Workshop, Clinic or Keynote with MZ.

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Zeitlin
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    90
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Michelle Zeitlin
  • Show Website
    Passion to Power

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