The Artist Behind the Art

Jennifer
  • 5.0 (6)
  • EDUCATION

The Artist Behind the Art is a podcast designed to help performers thrive on and off the stage. Through honest conversations, coaching, and real-world strategies, you’ll learn how to prepare, perform, and create a career that’s sustainable, rewarding, and unforgettable.

  1. 2D AGO

    Rooms of Possibility: Career Lessons from Cheryl Ann Sanders

    Your Reputation Enters the Room Before You Do with Cheryl Ann What happens when you say yes to something completely outside your comfort zone? In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer sits down with performer Cheryl Ann, whose career journey took an unexpected turn from musical theatre into the world of Cirque du Soleil. What began as a recommendation from a friend turned into a seven-hour audition, stepping far outside of her comfort zone—and ultimately landing a role in La Nouba that would shape the next chapter of her career. Cheryl Ann shares the real behind-the-scenes lessons artists rarely talk about: what casting is actually looking for, why versatility matters, and how your reputation can open doors long before you enter the room. In this episode, we discuss: • Cheryl Ann’s unexpected transition from musical theatre to circus  • What really happens in a Cirque du Soleil audition room  • Why confidence matters more than trying to show everything you can do  • The power of versatility and acquiring multiple skills  • Why saying yes to opportunities outside your comfort zone can change your career  • The truth about submissions and audition preparation today  • The most important career advice for performers: your reputation enters the room before you do If you’re an artist navigating auditions, submissions, or trying to build a sustainable performing career, this episode is full of insight and encouragement. Because sometimes the biggest opportunities come from simply saying yes. Join the conversation What opportunity have you said yes to that changed your path? Share your thoughts and connect with the podcast community on Instagram: Follow: @theartistbehindtheart If this episode resonated with you, be sure to save it, share it with another artist, and help us continue supporting the artists behind the work. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    31 min

  2. MAR 10

    From Mind’s Eye to Words: Finding Your Artistic Voice

    What is your artistic voice — and can you clearly communicate it when it matters most? In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer breaks down what she calls your artistic voice: your ability to introduce yourself confidently at an audition, explain your act in words, and articulate what makes you unique as an artist in a highly competitive industry. For many circus artists and performers, talent lives naturally in the body — but not always in language. This episode explores how to bridge that gap so casting panels, directors, choreographers, and collaborators can better understand who you are, what your work expresses, and what value you bring to a production. Jennifer shares practical ways to practice audition introductions, improve your on-camera video submissions, and start putting language to your creative work so you can show up more clearly and confidently in every opportunity. In This Episode, We Cover What “artistic voice” actually meansHow to introduce yourself at an audition with clarity and confidenceWhy practicing audition questions is just as important as practicing your skillsA simple way to buy yourself time when you feel put on the spotHow to improve the way you come across in video submissionsWhy your submission setup matters: lighting, sound, space, and clothingHow to start putting words to your act and creative workWhy explaining your act helps refine and elevate itHow to identify and communicate what makes you unique as an artistWhy clarity helps you not only say yes to the right opportunities — but walk away from the wrong onesKey Takeaway Your artistic voice is not just what you create — it’s how clearly you can communicate it. When you take time to put words to who you are, what your work expresses, and what makes you unique, you give yourself the power to connect more authentically and show up more confidently in your next audition or submission. Reflection Prompt Take time to reflect on these three questions: How do I introduce myself as an artist?Can I clearly explain what my act is about?What do I bring to the table that is unique and valuable?Your answers to those questions can become one of your greatest tools. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    13 min

  3. FEB 24

    Staying Castable on the Road:Training, Strength & Studio Etiquette with Elise Southwick

    What does it actually take to sustain a career on tour? In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I’m joined by professional circus artist Elise Southwick, currently touring with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. From cruise ships across the Mediterranean to bus tours across the U.S., Elise shares what it really looks like to maintain your discipline, your strength, and your professionalism while constantly on the move. We begin with something simple — but powerful:  How you introduce yourself matters. Elise shares the exact approach she uses when reaching out to studio owners while on tour — and why professionalism, clarity, and preparation are what open doors. We also dive into: How to maintain your primary discipline while performing a different trackStrength training for aerialists (yes — barbell squats and deadlifts)Why lifting heavy doesn’t mean “bulking up”The difference between ship contracts, bus tours, and resident-style workHow to structure training when you’re performing 8 shows a weekThe importance of habits for physical, mental, and spiritual longevityElise speaks honestly about finding the “sweet spot” between overworking and underworking — and why career sustainability comes down to the habits you build when no one is watching. If you’re an emerging circus artist, currently touring, or dreaming of your first big contract, this conversation is a masterclass in how to stay ready — and stay professional. Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship begins March 23rd: If you’re ready to create an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still, I would love to invite you to apply and see if it’s the right fit. 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment on Instagram Reach out, and I’ll send you the application details. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    20 min

  4. FEB 10

    What Makes a Circus Act Truly Great: Creating Acts That Make Time Stand Still

    Episode: What Makes a Circus Act Truly Great You asked for this episode—and I’ll be honest, it made me nervous to record. Because the moment we start defining “great,” people want to debate it (and they should). Art is subjective. So instead of declaring a universal truth, I’m sharing patterns I’ve witnessed over time—what consistently shows up in acts that evolve from “good” to unforgettable. This conversation doesn’t end here.  I’d love for you to stay in it with me. If this episode sparked something for you, take a moment to reflect on what you believe makes an act truly great—and how that definition is shaping the work you’re creating right now. Join the conversation by following @theartistbehindtheart on Instagram, where we continue these discussions and share insights from artists across the industry. And if this episode resonated, please share it with another artist or creative friend who might need this perspective. These conversations grow stronger when we have them together. Thank you for listening, for engaging, and for being part of a community that cares deeply about craft, clarity, and intentional creation. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    18 min

  5. JAN 27

    The “This Tall to Ride” Standard with Samantha Oft : Strength + Capacity for the professional circus Artist

    What does it really take to stay healthy in a career where your body is your job? In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I sit down with Samantha Oft, PT, DPT, ATC — Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Athletic Trainer, and former Head Therapist for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba in Disney Springs. Sam has spent the past decade working with athletes and performers, bridging orthopedic rehab, emergency care, and performance support at the highest level. Samantha is one of a kind and is known for: helping artists get back to their work — and stay there. We talk about how to find a healthcare provider who actually listens, what “capacity” really means in the professional world, and why being able to do a skill once is very different than being able to do it 500 shows a year. This conversation is equal parts practical and mindset-shifting — because the goal isn’t just to heal. It’s to build a body that can sustain your career. In this episode, we cover:  How to find a PT/physio who treats the whole human (and why the insurance model often blocks that)Why artists should build their care team before they’re injured What “capacity” actually means: perform → recover → repeat without breaking downThe reality of resident show schedules (and why you can’t live at 100% max output)How to increase work capacity through a “needs analysis” and specific trainingThe big misconception: skill training ≠ strength training Why strength is essential (and the truth about “getting bulky”)What recovery really is (and why it’s not the Instagram version) Sam’s two core reminders for artists:  Your body heals when you rest  Strength training is not your enemy — it’s longevityAbout Samantha Oft: Samantha Oft, PT, DPT, ATC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Certified Athletic Trainer in the Orlando, Florida area. She has worked in sports medicine and orthopedic rehab for 10+ years, including supporting Division I athletics and performers at Walt Disney World. She served as Head Therapist for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba until its closure in 2017, where she contributed to emergency and movement screening systems tailored to acrobatic work. After Cirque, she co-founded Next Level Physiotherapy and Performance, a private concierge practice dedicated to making elite-level PT and performance care accessible to more people. Key takeaway: Your act can be impressive — but if it isn’t sustainable, it isn’t professional-rea Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    48 min

  6. JAN 13

    Stacking the Deck in Your Favor: How to Plan With the Life You Actually Have

    Every New Year, we set goals like the future version of ourselves has unlimited time, energy, money, and emotional capacity — and then we wonder why we burn out or fall off track by March. In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, we’re breaking down why most goal-setting fails — and how to plan in a way that actually works. This is a practical, honest conversation about capacity, sacrifice, and alignment. Instead of adding more tools or chasing more motivation, you’ll learn how to plan with the life you actually have — not the one you wish you had. I introduce two core concepts that have completely changed how I plan: Playing with your full deck of cardsStacking the deck in your favorBecause clarity alone doesn’t get you to your goals — alignment does. This episode is designed to be interactive, so grab a notebook or open your notes app and plan alongside me. In This Episode, We Cover: Why 80–90% of New Year’s goals fail (and it’s not a willpower issue)The difference between being interested and being committedThe one question most people skip: What will this goal ask me to sacrifice?How to audit your time, energy, money, and focus honestlyThe four questions that reveal what’s actually blocking your progressTwo planning approaches:Incremental but intentional progressAll-in seasons that stack the deck in your favorHow to choose the right approach for your current season of lifeWhy extraordinary progress comes from intention — not more timeHow alignment leads to peace, momentum, and fewer regretsKey Takeaway You don’t need more tools. You need honest alignment between what you want and how you’re actually living. This year isn’t about stacking more goals.  It’s about playing the cards you already have — on purpose. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    22 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    Inside the Creation Process with Alexis Bernatchez: What It Really Takes to Build a Brand-New Show

    What is it actually like to be part of the creation of a brand-new Cirque du Soleil production? In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, host Jennifer Pierce sits down with Alexis Bernatchez to unpack the realities of show creation from the performer’s perspective. From AXEL to Canadian contemporary circus companies, Alexis shares how characters are discovered, how ideas are born (sometimes from “failed” moments), and why honesty and adaptability are essential skills in any creation room. Together, they explore what directors actually look for in artists during creation, how performers can stay open when work is cut or reimagined, and why being yourself isn’t just encouraged — it’s required. In this episode, we cover: What’s planned vs. discovered in a brand-new show creationHow performers contribute creatively beyond their disciplineWhy mistakes and “messy” moments are part of the processAdapting from rehearsal spaces to massive arena stagesManaging pressure, checkpoints, and high-stakes feedbackThe role of authenticity, clown work, and stage presenceWhat truly makes a performer valuable in a creation environmentKey takeaway: Creation isn’t about proving perfection — it’s about showing up honestly, staying flexible, and allowing your true strengths to shape the work. Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    32 min

  8. 12/13/2025

    Building Your Own Path: Contracts, Teaching & Asking for Help with Aerialist Dan Saab

    In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer sits down with aerialist, performer, and educator Dan Saab to talk about what it really looks like to build a circus career without a rulebook. Dan shares how he went from studying Theatre in college to working in circus full-time, performing in everything from cabaret and nightlife to large-scale productions and theme park shows — all while traveling as a sought-after workshop instructor. Together, they unpack how to navigate your path when “I want to be in Cirque du Soleil” isn’t enough of a plan, how to think about which gigs and contracts are actually a good fit, and why understanding the whole production — not just what happens onstage — makes you a stronger collaborator. They also explore the tension many artists feel between sharing their skills as a teacher and maintaining their own unique style, how to set boundaries without burning bridges, and why asking for advice from more experienced artists is one of the most powerful tools you have. In this episode, we talk about: Dan’s journey from psychology and public health major to Theatre and finally circusHow a single aerial hoop performance at Edinburgh Fringe helped him reconnect to circusWhy understanding lighting, rigging, and production makes you a better performerThe struggle artists face with long-term goals vs. short-term, actionable stepsHow mentorship and guidance can save you years of trial and errorBalancing teaching and performing — and why style and vocabulary are not the same thingKnowing when a contract or location is not a good fit (and learning that only by living it)How to think about long-term opportunities vs. the “shiny” short-term gigSimple ways to protect your energy, reset your nervous system, and stay grounded on the roadWhy newer artists should ask more questions about rates, contracts, and rigging safetyIf you’re building a circus or performing arts career and you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone would just tell me how this works,” this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and a lot to think about. 🔗 Stay Connected Follow the podcast on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheartFollow Jennifer and Arete: @Arete.ActDevelopmentLearn more about Dan: @dan_saab If this episode resonated with you, share it with another artist who needs to hear it — and don’t forget to leave a quick review so more performers can find these conversations. Mentorship matters — and Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills. Ready to Unlock What’s Next? If you know there’s more inside you than you’ve unlocked on your own…  If your skills are strong, but you’re unsure how to shape them into something undeniable… You don’t have to figure that out alone. Inside the Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship, we bring personalized feedback and clear strategy to your creative process — so every moment of your act is masterful, connected, and intentional. From entrance to bow. The mentorship begins March 23rd, and the founding members round will be intimate and focused. If you’re ready to build an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still: 📩 Email: Jennifer@aretementorship.com 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment I’d love to see what we can create together. 🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/ Remember — you already have what it takes.  The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself? Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Artist Behind the Art is a podcast designed to help performers thrive on and off the stage. Through honest conversations, coaching, and real-world strategies, you’ll learn how to prepare, perform, and create a career that’s sustainable, rewarding, and unforgettable.

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Artist Behind the Art
  • Show Website
    The Artist Behind the Art