Beyond the Mic with Sean Dillon

Sean Dillon | Beyond the Mic
  • 4.8 (24)
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I believe every person has value. Behind every headline, hustle, hard-earned moment, and family tales there’s a story worth sharing. That’s why I built Beyond the Mic. I talk with artists, athletes, authors, icons and people you need to know. I don’t do puff pieces. I ask questions that get to the real stuff: the doubts, wins, detours, and moments that shaped them. The stories that you normally don't get to hear. Some stories make you laugh. Some hit you in the gut. All of them remind you: people matter, you matter. I’m not here to be famous. I’m here helping others be heard. I want curiosity to run free, connect communities, and make something that sticks with you long after the mic is off. Because in a world full of noise, real stories still cut through. That's my mission. Let's go #BeyondTheMic. New Episodes Weekly! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

  1. Brian Kalinowski on Touring with "Mrs. Doubtfire" and Battling Self Doubt

    5D AGO

    Brian Kalinowski on Touring with "Mrs. Doubtfire" and Battling Self Doubt

    Welcome Brian Kalinowski:We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, singer and Broadway star. You’ve seen him in “Chicago”, “Hairspray” and now in the 2nd National tour of the Broadway version of “Mrs Doubtfire” playing Frank Hillard. We welcome Brian Kalinowski. Brian, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve said that singing and dancing is one thing but comedy hits different. What makes the comedy in this show punch? You were on cruise ships for four years performing Hairspray. How did that time prepare you for the hustle and bustle of a national tour? You’ve played the tinman in the “Wizard of Oz” and “The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe”. What makes Frank enjoyable for you? Why are you frantic? The Rockin' 8:Time to throw you… Brian Kalinowski from the National Tour of “Mrs Doubtfire” joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. No Pressure. 1. Favorite course as a Bulldog at DeSales University? 2. Cupcakes: Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry? 3. Favorite balloon animal to make? 4. Yes, No or Maybe: Do you have a specific beard care routine? 5. Best memory at St Elizabeth in Wilmington Delaware? 6. What did you do with the first Playbill from your first show is? 7. Favorite place to vacation? 8. Do you play any instruments? The Back Half:Everyone knows the movie and the powerhouse performance by Robin Williams. What makes the Broadway version different? What’s the section of the show that your not in and it touches you? Who is the powerhouse stars from this show cast that amazes you? What was your first role when you were in the Wilmington Drama League when you were in grade school? Ensemble Aubrey Plaza How was it when you are such a powerhouse ensemble? Who influenced your love of music? Who’s your favorite phantom? You’ve won the 2022 MAC Award for your work as a piano bar / restaurant singer. The MAC awards celebrates the best of NYC nightlife. What did winning that award mean to you? Do you know where your MAC award is right now? Why does cabaret touch your soul? Which is tougher, travelling with the show, or the downtime in between shows? When you first got the call, who did you call first? What characteristics make a powerhouse performer? Who influences theatrically? The Impossible Question:How do you overcome the doubts that every performer has in the back of their mind? More with Brian:How have you overcome imposter syndrome and when did you know you made it? When you’re out on the road, where’s the first place you need to find in a new town? What’s your favorite coffee blend? Who on the cast and crew are you the tightest with? When a show is going on, how do you keep your focus? 1st Broadway show you ever saw live? Where? How did performing in South Korea change the way you see performance? What has been the biggest growth for you? Who has helped you the most since you have started? How has your parents and friends support helped push you forward? When you see young people looking up to you? How have you overcome adversity in your career becoming the best performer you can be? Why have you been able to make your dreams come true? What do you want people to take away from “Mrs. Doubtfire”? How has the show changed you? What’s the one thing you still you want improve? One Big Question:What is your dream role? The Wrap:Dad was in a polka band, hates the sounds of balloons popping and wants you to watch “Mrs. Doubtfire”. Brian Kalinowski thanks for talking with us today. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac -...

    21 min
  2. Pete Ganbarg on the Stories Behind Music's Biggest Stars

    FEB 9

    Pete Ganbarg on the Stories Behind Music's Biggest Stars

    "AI, when used correctly, will just be another tool in the toolbox of creativity." Welcome Pete Ganbarg:We’re joined on the Starline by a truly talented man. He’s done A&R, educator, music publishing, podcaster and serves as a board member for the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Season 5 of his podcast “Rock & Roll High School” is now out. We welcome Grammy award winner Pete Ganbarg. Pete, let’s go Beyond the Mic. For season 5 of “Rock & Roll High School” you have gotten a who’s who of talent with Alice Cooper, Kevin Cronin, Darlene Love and aouch more. Why is it important for people, especially A&R staff to understand the roots of contemporary music? You’re sharing the stories of contemporary music via the artists own words. Which episode revealed something that even shocked you? Who is the most underrated songwriter of all time? What was the first album you bought and how did it change your life? The Rockin' 8:Host of “Rock & Roll High School” Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. No Pressure. 1. Last Broadway show you saw live? 2. Who would you want to sing a song you’ve written? 3. Do you know where your first Grammy is right now? 4. Best place to go on vacation? 5. What was the name of your show on WESU? 6. Best New York Mets game you’ve ever seen live? 7. What was the best home cooked meal from growing up, and who made it? 8. Best thing about being a girl dad to Peri and Julia? The Impossible Question:Who is on your Mount Rushmore of Songwriters? The Back Half:Host of “Rock & Roll High School” podcast Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Back Half. How has streaming and social media made finding artists easier and yet harder for A&R reps? In 90’s country once you had one hat act, everyone was searching for a hat act. Once LeAnn Rimes came out, you had Lila McCann and Jessica Andrews. As music has evolved, how have trends kept up? What was the first concert you saw live? As you have these conversations with stars such as Warren Haynes, Clive Davis, Peter Frampton and more, how important is it for you capturing their stories before they are gone? What’s the one overarching thing you want people to take away from Rock & Roll High School? Who in music business now has the “it factor”, I’m not talking about artists but about behind the scenes? Why are those invisible people behind the scene sometimes more important in the industry? Most underappreciated artist in your opinion? How hard is it to pick for the Songwriters Hall of Fame? How many members do you put out on the ballot? Who’s your dream guest for “Rock & Roll High School” podcast. Your artists have sold a combined 100 million + units. Who’s the star who has a special place in your heart? How has the music industry declined since the shift of streaming and the loss of revenue for artists? One Big Question:Pete, how do you see the future of music with Suno and other AI changing the reality of “is it real or is it not”? How has this podcast changed you? Where can people listen to Rock & Roll High School and find you online? The Wrap:His favorite Mets game was game 6 of the ‘86 World Series, misses mom’s meatloaf and wants you to hear “Rock & Roll High School” podcast. Pete Ganbarg, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    24 min
  3. Talking Growth and Reality with Evan Nikolas Fields from “The Wayfinders”

    FEB 2

    Talking Growth and Reality with Evan Nikolas Fields from “The Wayfinders”

    "You definitely have to build loyalty, and even if that person isn't as loyal to you at first, that doesn't mean they will always be unloyal to you." Welcome Evan Nikolas Fields:We’re joined on the Starline by an up and coming actor. You’ve seen him in “He’s All that”, “Hacks”, “George & Mandy’s First Marriage” and “Game Shakers”. His latest project is the sci-fi adventure “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios. We welcome Evan Nikolas Fields. Evan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Like your character Flynn Griffin, you’ve been hiding in plain sight. How did the character Flynn give you the opportunity to shine? Who are you closer to in real life, Big Chonkas or Flynn? Playstation / xbox? When reading the script how did your opinions of the word loyalty change or evolve? Other than your family and agents, who do you trust the most right now? How did the bond with Tamara and Vincent grow as you shot season 1? What was the best part of the trip? The Rockin' 8:Evan Nikolas Fields from “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. When on set, what’s the one thing at craft services when shooting in Ireland that you loved to eat? 2. What is your secret dish to cook that you are better than everyone making? 3. How many energy drinks do you drink in a day? 4. Who has better hair, you or your mom? 5. How many Scooby-Doo episodes have you seen in your life? 6. If you weren’t an actor, what skill would you like to have as a fall back option? 7. Last movie you’ve seen? 8. Apple or Android? The Back Half:All of these main characters fight conflicts of what they want and what they need. How has acting feel like this fight all over again? First Broadway show you saw live? How has beauty of Ireland change the way you see L.A. Tell me about reading for the role and the nerves of that day? Who was the 1st person you called to say you got it? What did Sammy say when you got the role? How did being a student all over again in those first episode all over again? The Impossible Question:How has overcoming fear helped you become a better actor? “You better face reality, ‘Because reality is so great’” How has the way you see the art of making a series and Hollywood differently now? What made working with Angel Studios and your cast and crew better than any other experience you’ve had other than being in Ireland? What do you want people to take away from “The Wayfinders”? Which thing do you want them to take away from T’s character? Vincent’s character and definitely your character? How has your trust in yourself grown? Best story growing up with your nana that changed you forever? How difficult is it when your show has so many digital effects and you have to look at a stick with a dot on it? What’s the one tip you would give someone who is just starting out acting to help them not give up? How has your motivations as an actor changed from when you first started? Why has overcoming adversity and all the nos to finally getting the yes with “The Wayfinders”? How was working with Glen Winter, your director, different than any other director you’ve worked with? What would you like, if you could write it, in the future for Flynn and “The Wayfinders”? One Big Question:We all have dreams for success and happiness in life. How has this series changed the way you see your own success and future? The Wrap:Shot his audition in the bathroom in Hawaii, his nana had a pet squirrel named Bobo and wants you to watch “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios. Evan Nikolas Fields thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic. This podcast uses...

    23 min
  4. Dax Devlon-Ross: When Fighting for Justice Still Isn’t Enough

    JAN 27

    Dax Devlon-Ross: When Fighting for Justice Still Isn’t Enough

    "I couldn’t not tell this story and be part of it because it seemed like it was that kind of Shawshank redemption story." Welcome Dax Devlon-Ross:We’re joined on the Starline by a friend we’ve had Beyond the Mic before for his project “The Burden”. He’s a storyteller, strategist, speaker, social entrepreneur and most important, husband and dad. His latest project is the podcast “Crying Wolf”. We welcome back Dax Devlon-Ross. Dax, let’s return Beyond the Mic. What made Lee Harris’ story so powerful? Was Robert’s effort to free his friend, helpful for him? What’s the one fact from this case that haunts you? The Rockin' 8:Dax Devlon-Ross host of “Crying Wolf” joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. Best tequila is what kind? 2. What’s the one thing your kids try and convince you to do but fail? 3. Which of your kids stays up the longest now? 4. In ten words or less, what was the power of the first men’s retreat you led? 5. Which course at GW Law School was the one you struggled with the most? 6. Who is the person that makes you be a better man every day? 7. Strawberry or grape jelly? 8. Musician or singer that touches your heart and soul? Sneaking in A One More:As you look at all these cases of miscarriages of justice. How does that wear on you? Two Impossible Questions:Can the alleged deep-seated corruption that plagues Chicago ever be cleaned? Dax, what would consider justice for Richard Zuley’s actions? The Wrap:He thinks grape jelly tastes fake now, has trouble getting his energetic six year old to sleep and wants you to hear “Crying Wolf”. Dax Devlon-Ross my friend, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    10 min
  5. Janet McTeer on "The Artist"

    JAN 25

    Janet McTeer on "The Artist"

    "One of the reasons that this is so fascinating and was so fascinating to me is because it starts out as one thing and sort of ends up as something else in a way." Welcome Janet McTeer:We’re joined on the Starline by a Tony, Golden Globe and Drama Desk Award winner. You’ve seen her in Mobland, Ozark and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Now starring in “The Artist” on The Network. We welcome Janet McTeer. Good Morning Janet, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “This is not a tale of murder. This is a story of rebirth.” “The Artist” has a cast of stars. Mandy Patinkin, Ever Anderson, Hank Azaria, Katherine McPhee, Patti LuPone, Clark Gregg among others. How was portraying a character in this scorched earth Gilded Age murder mystery interesting for you? Streaming networks have taking the lead on stories that normal networks have ignored. Why is stories like this fascinating to tell? The Rockin' 8:Janet McTeer from “The Artist” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. Life would be sad if you couldn’t see plays. Which Broadway play is your favorite now? 2. Do you know where in your house your Tony Award is right now? 3. Favorite theater to perform a play of all time? 4. Best place to see the leaves in Maine? 5. Which character you have portrayed is your favorite? 6. Who would you have loved to share the screen or stage for one scene but haven’t yet? 7. YES, NO or Maybe: Are you any good at playing pool? 8. Favorite thing to grow in your garden? Sneaking in One More:You cherish your life, work and privacy. Why was this work important to promote? One Big Question:You have portrayed such powerful characters like Kat McAllister, Marian Henry, Nora Helmer and soon Minerva McGonagall. How do these characters fuel you? The Wrap:She loves growing Cosmos, her Tony is in the top shelf of her kitchen and she wants you to watch “The Artist” on The Network Janet McTeer, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    7 min
  6. Dancing King : Michael John Wagner from "Mania"

    JAN 19

    Dancing King : Michael John Wagner from "Mania"

    "They cracked the code. They know how it works and in terms of writing songs, they have a formula ...and all of their records and great music just lasts. And you know, those records are timeless. They live forever and people love them. So, you know, they cross generations and not going anywhere anytime soon." Welcome Michael John Wagner:We’re joined on the Starline by a singer-songwriter and actor. You’ve heard his work on “America’s Next Top Model” , “Friends with Benefits” and seen in “The Fourth Alice” He went from his extensive European and Summer tour to now touring with the number one ABBA tribute show “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” as Bjorn. We welcome Michael Wagner. Michael, let’s go Beyond the Mic. In “Mania” you speak with a Swedish accent. How long did it take you to perfect that? You’ve sang your own Alternative and R&B music, but now you’re back to the 70’s. Why is Abba music still loved so much even today? “Mania” is full production with all the bells, whistles, costumes, lighting etc from one of ABBA’s biggest concerts. Which is your favorite song from the show? How has this tour change the way you see ABBA? The Rockin' 8:Michael Wagner from “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. Yes, No or Maybe: Have you ever counted how many sequins are in your outfit? Have you ever thought about it? 2. Best class at the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School? 3. Go to order when you visit Primanti Bros at home? 4. Favorite theater you’ve visited so far on the road? 5. What’s your must have roadside truck stop snack? 6. First guitar you ever owned was what and do you still have it? 7. Biggest fish you ever caught was what and where? 8. Last Steelers game you went to see live was where and against who? The Impossible Question:What was the one piece of advice your late Pap John gave you when you started your musical journey? The Back Half:Best thing about your friend and “Mania” cohort Melissa Harding? You’ve been on the road with your own tour. How is touring with “Mania” different? What’s your routine from getting from one stage to the next? Best Playstation game? Assassin Creed’s games How has this tour changed the way you love music? What’s the funniest story from the “Mania” tour so far? Who inspires you on your musical path? How has your parents and friends support your path? What do you want people to take away from “Mania”? One Big Question:You’ve experienced wildfires, quakes and the joys and heartaches of music. What makes the joy of a fan connecting with you as you perform changed you? You’ve seen him in a Cinemark movie preshow, now you can enjoy him in “Mania”! The Wrap:He was a ball boy for the Steelers, had a manager sell his 1st guitar and wants you to see “Mania: The ABBA Tribute”. Michael John Wagner, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    14 min
  7. Vondie Curtis-Hall on "Sheepdog"

    JAN 19

    Vondie Curtis-Hall on "Sheepdog"

    "I ​felt ​I ​wanted ​to, ​​​to ​pay ​homage ​to ​those ​guys. ​I ​mean, ​I ​have ​one ​friend ​who's ​battling ​cancer ​now, ​ ​from ​Agent ​Orange so ​I ​felt, ​you ​know, ​these ​guys ​didn't ​have ​a ​voice ​when ​they ​came ​back...so ​I, ​I ​really ​wanted ​to ​pay ​tribute ​to, ​to ​the ​Vietnam ​events." Welcome Vondie Curtis Hall:We’re joined on the Starline by an actor and director. You’ve seen him in “Chicago Hope”, “Daredevil” and my personal favorite “The Recruit”. His latest movie is “Sheepdog”. We welcome Vondie Curtis Hall. Vondie, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve performed on Broadway, acted in soaps and directed TV and movies. Why was this role so interesting for you? “My pain is relative, son. Sometimes we got to fall apart to find ourselves all over again” How did you relate to Whitney St. Germain? Vondie, what do you want people to take away from this powerful movie? The Rockin' 8:Vondie Curtis Hall from “Sheepdog” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. Most underappreciated role you’ve ever done? 2. The actress that impresses you today? 3. First name of the student who last impressed you at the Tisch School of the Arts? 4. Last Broadway show you saw life was what? 5. When you first started acting, what did you mom and dad want you to do as a fallback career? 6. Favorite class at Juilliard? 7. One chore your wife depends on you to do around the house? 8. What was your favorite meal by your mom growing up? Sneaking in A Couple More:“There’s always light at the end of the tunnel if you push to make it through”. What are your wishes for veterans who struggle every day? What was it like working with this amazing cast? One Big Question:Vondie Curtis Hall from “Sheepdog” joins us for One Big Question. How has sharing your talents with the world given you happiness? The Wrap:He’s in charge of the garbage, was almost a construction worker and wants you to watch the powerful movie “Sheepdog”. Vondie Curtis Hall, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    9 min
  8. Connor Sullivan from the National Tour of Water for Elephants

    JAN 12

    Connor Sullivan from the National Tour of Water for Elephants

    "The power of acting and storytelling can help people see truths about the world and about themselves." Welcome Connor Sullivan:We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, singer and creative. He’s currently touring as August in the first national tour of Water for Elephants. We welcome Connor Sullivan. Connor, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve played Flynn Rider in “Tangled: The Musical” and Billy Flynn in “Chicago”. What made August such a challenging role for you? What makes the complexity so difficult to display? If someone hasn’t seen Water for Elephants, or read the book, what can you tell us about the show? Connor, you’ve done Film, TV, Regional Theater as well as work on the Disney Cruise Line. How does this tour make you feel especially being such a new show? The Rockin' 8:Connor Sullivan from Water for Elephants joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure. 1. Favorite song from your acapella group Tonal? 2. Best part of being 6’6” and playing Ultimate Frisbee? 3. Favorite Disney movie? 4. Typical workout on the road? Instant Followup: How much can you bench? 5. Sunrises or sunsets? 6. YES/NO/Maybe: Do you think the Loch Ness Monster is real? 7. Growing up what was the subject you disliked while you were homeschooled? 8. Which musical that you haven’t performed in is your favorite? The Impossible Question:If you could fix one thing in the world, but you’d lose your voice forever, what would you fix? The Back Half:Best article you wrote for the Viterbo Lumen? Which is harder, modeling or Broadway? What is your typical vocal warmup? Tell me about routine on the road from leaving the stage to the next stage. How many journals do you have? Who is the person that you depend on from the cast when you are away from friends and family? How does the downtimes between shows change you? What are your hobbies you have? Favorite thing to bake? Who inspires you on Broadway now? Go Deeper with Connor Sullivan Beyond the Mic:What’s your Broadway dream role? What was the first Broadway show you saw live and how did it change your life? What lit that fire, what motivated you? You talk about inspiration, why is important to inspire the future? Connor, who is your hero in the business and who pushes you today? One tip your professor Karla Hughes gave you that helps you today? On the Road:When you get to a new town, what’s the one thing you have to find? When you get to a town you’ve been before do you go to the same spots or do you explore? Best memory from the road from “Chicago” to “Water for Elephants”? Connor, how has the tour changed you? Since you’re going to be on this tour for a long time, how do you feather the gas? What do you see in your future? Two Big Questions:What’s the power of acting and storytelling for you and how do you want people viewing your work on stage? The Wrap:Geometry turned him to the arts, loves Aladdin and wants you to see Water for Elephants National Tour Now. Connor Sullivan, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    27 min
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About

I believe every person has value. Behind every headline, hustle, hard-earned moment, and family tales there’s a story worth sharing. That’s why I built Beyond the Mic. I talk with artists, athletes, authors, icons and people you need to know. I don’t do puff pieces. I ask questions that get to the real stuff: the doubts, wins, detours, and moments that shaped them. The stories that you normally don't get to hear. Some stories make you laugh. Some hit you in the gut. All of them remind you: people matter, you matter. I’m not here to be famous. I’m here helping others be heard. I want curiosity to run free, connect communities, and make something that sticks with you long after the mic is off. Because in a world full of noise, real stories still cut through. That's my mission. Let's go #BeyondTheMic. New Episodes Weekly! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Information

  • Creator
    Sean Dillon | Beyond the Mic
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    765
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 SM 2025 Dog Drool Holdings LLC All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Mic with Sean Dillon