In the Podlight

Grant Kretchick (Host & Producer), Caroline Liem (Host & Producer)

In The PODLIGHT is a podcast that explores the post-pandemic landscape of the entertainment industry. We aim to engage in captivating conversations surrounding the challenges faced by creatives today, including issues related to representation, artificial intelligence, union strikes, streaming platforms, and the ever-evolving economics of entertainment.

Episodes

  1. Candido Cornejo Jr & Jesse James Keitel - Intentional Casting

    11/05/2024

    Candido Cornejo Jr & Jesse James Keitel - Intentional Casting

    Jesse James Keitel and Candido Cornejo Jr, actor/writer and casting director respectively, speak to advocacy, intentional casting, and their trans-identity & experiences navigating the casting process and on set in a climate that’s healthy, safe and creative both as artists and for artists.   Read more about Jesse and Candido here.   Takeaways   Intentional casting is crucial for authentic representation.Trans creatives face unique challenges in Hollywood.Advocacy can be a natural byproduct of being oneself.Breaking stereotypes is essential for diverse storytelling.The industry often reduces trans identities to tokenism.Education on trans issues is still necessary in the industry.Personal experiences shape professional journeys in the arts.Representation must go beyond visibility to include authenticity.Trans stories should be told by trans individuals.Navigating identity in the workplace requires courage and clarity. We need time, we need money, we need resources.There is a space for you that you can be an actor.Intentional casting can ease emotional burdens.Being a trans woman has been the biggest gift to my career.We need to start questioning what is your intention with this?We need more training and development opportunities.It's important to remember what makes us happy.Acting is so fun, but I absolutely hate Hollywood.The duality of being different can be both a gift and a burden.  Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Trans Creatives in Hollywood 02:06 - Intentional Casting and Authentic Representation 06:14 - Navigating Identity and Career Challenges 10:04 - The Role of Advocacy in the Arts 14:04 - Breaking Stereotypes in Casting 17:54 - Educating the Industry on Trans Representation 21:48 - Personal Experiences and Professional Challenges 28:12 - The Challenge of Finding Talent 31:03 - Encouraging Diversity in Acting 34:35 - The Burden of Representation 37:54 - Intentional Casting and Its Importance 40:35 - Dreams and Aspirations in the Industry 45:46 - The Duality of Being Different 50:00 - Finding Joy in the Journey   Connect with Candido on Instagram Connect with Jesse on Instagram Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    57 min
  2. Kim Williams - The Power of Elevating Stories

    10/30/2024

    Kim Williams - The Power of Elevating Stories

    Casting Executive and Producer Kim Williams strives to elevate the industry, making a significant impact both on-screen and behind the scenes. Kim discusses how her degree in sociology informs her career, particularly in understanding the dynamics of human behavior, collaboration, and social networks. She emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and shares her passion for mentoring the next generation of artists.   Read more about Kim here.   Takeaways   Kim Williams emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling.She believes in saying yes to opportunities to build a career.Navigating personalities in collaboration is crucial for success.Understanding one's identity helps in making informed decisions.Casting is about bringing characters to life, not just matching actors to roles.Diversity and representation are central to her casting philosophy.Kim advocates for authenticity in casting decisions.She finds talent in various aspects of her life, not just auditions.The casting director's role is vital in shaping narratives.Mentorship and legacy are important to her as she guides others.  Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Kim Williams and Her Journey 03:06 - The Role of a Casting Director 05:51 - Navigating Opportunities and Scarcity Mindset 09:00 - Instincts in Project Selection 11:51 - Collaboration and Navigating Personalities 15:06 - The Impact of Storytelling on Audiences 17:53 - Authenticity and Representation in Casting 21:06 - Finding Talent and the 'It' Factor 23:53 - The Importance of Casting in Film 27:08 - Mentorship and Legacy in the Industry 30:03 - Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles 32:48 - Future Goals and Aspirations 36:03 - Lightning Round and Personal Insights   Connect with Kim on Instagram Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    41 min
  3. Sammi Cannold & Liam Pearce - Neurodiversity and Inclusion on Broadway

    10/23/2024

    Sammi Cannold & Liam Pearce - Neurodiversity and Inclusion on Broadway

    Sammi Cannold and Liam Pearce, director and actor respectively, from Broadway's award winning How To Dance in Ohio discuss the impact of the show in de-stigmatizing neurodiversity, accessibility and accommodations on our sets, stages, and community, how the casting process and production embodied equal parts art and activism, and the meaning of the key motto in the disability and autistic communities “nothing about us without us.”    Read more about Sammi and Liam here.   Takeaways   The importance of authentic representation in theater.Creating a role as an autistic actor is groundbreaking.The journey of How to Dance in Ohio is deeply personal.Inclusivity in casting leads to a richer creative process.The show aims to change perceptions of autism in society.Accessibility for audiences is crucial for engagement.The collaborative nature of the production was unique.Neurodiversity should be embraced in all creative spaces.The mission of the show is to foster understanding.Future productions should continue the conversation about autism.  Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to In the Podlight 01:00 - The Journey of How to Dance in Ohio 06:05 - Casting and Production Process 09:50 - Identity and Representation in Theater 15:08 - Creating an Inclusive Environment 19:54 - Audience Accessibility and Engagement 24:51 - Future Aspirations and Impact of the Show 30:07 - Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts   Connect with Sammi on Instagram Connect with Liam on Instagram   Check out How To Dance in Ohio on their website Check out &Juliet on their website Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    34 min
  4. Michelle Sugihara  - Moving The Needle With CAPE

    10/15/2024

    Michelle Sugihara - Moving The Needle With CAPE

    Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director of CAPE, shares how the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment is fostering collaboration among diverse organizations, creating a supportive network within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, coalition-building, and amplifying voices and driving systemic change on stage and in front of and behind the camera.   Read more about Michelle here.   Takeaways   CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991.Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers.The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices.Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories.The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional.Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking.CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals.Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other.The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices.Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks.The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.Community support is vital for artists to flourish.  Chapters   00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara 02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs 04:50 Impact of Representation in Media 08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement 12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE 15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation 19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices 22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations   Connect with Michelle on Instagram Connect with CAPE on Instagram Check out CAPE on their website Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    28 min
  5. Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard - The Intimacy Professional

    10/08/2024

    Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard - The Intimacy Professional

    Intimacy Professionals Raja Benz & Greg Geffrard, open a window to the role of intimacy directors, choreographers and educators on stage and screen. We discuss navigating the complexities of power dynamics, and their commitment to creating safe, empowering spaces where all voices are respected and where the stories of underrepresented communities are told with integrity and care on stage and screen.   Read more about Raja & Greg here.   Takeaways Intimacy professionals advocate for ethical representation in performance.Creating a consent-based environment is crucial for safety.Cultural competency is essential in intimacy work.The role of intimacy professionals is evolving in the industry.Comfort and discomfort are inherent in storytelling.Intimacy work requires understanding power dynamics.Education in intimacy practices is vital for future generations.Resistance to intimacy professionals often stems from misunderstanding their role.The intimacy field must address barriers to entry for diverse voices.Advocacy for vulnerable individuals in performance spaces is essential.Regional theaters are crucial for developing new works and voices.Casting in regional theater involves a different set of challenges compared to film and TV.The pandemic has significantly impacted the economics of regional theater.Advocating for representation in casting is an ongoing effort.Success in the arts is not a binary of pass or fail.Actors can thrive outside of major cities like New York and LA.Building relationships in the industry is key to long-term success.Personal values should align with professional goals in the arts.The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.Community support is vital for artists to flourish.  Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to Intimacy Professionals 02:36 - Understanding the Role of Intimacy Professionals 06:50 - Creating Safe Spaces in Performance 10:40 - Navigating Comfort and Discomfort in Storytelling 15:41 Cultural Competency in Intimacy Work 19:57 - The Intersection of Identity and Intimacy 26:33 - Progress and Challenges in the Field 32:42 - The Future of Intimacy Work 36:22 - Addressing Resistance and Legitimacy 40:34 - The Role of Power Dynamics 48:37 - Who Advocates for Intimacy Professionals? 54:21 - Conclusion and Future Directions   Connect with Raja on Instagram Connect with Greg on Instagram Check out The Den Theatre in Chicago on their website Check out Actor’s Express Theatre in Atlanta on their website Check out Nothing Without A Theatre in Chicago on their website Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    1h 9m
  6. Aurin Squire - The Writer Post-Strike

    10/01/2024

    Aurin Squire - The Writer Post-Strike

    Aurin Squire, producer, playwright and screenwriter speaks with us about the importance of representation in the Writers Room and perspectives in storytelling at this pivotal moment in the industry   Read more about Aurin here.   Takeaways:   Aurin Squire emphasizes the importance of writing from personal experience and perspective.The writer's room is a collaborative and sacred space for creativity.The need for representation in the industry extends beyond actors to all behind-the-scenes roles.Aurin advocates for access to storytelling across different identities.He believes in the power of diverse voices to enrich storytelling.Aurin's future projects aim to explore multicultural backgrounds and science fiction.He credits his background in sports for developing self-motivation and discipline.Self-care practices like meditation help him navigate the creative process.Aurin values the importance of community and collaboration in the arts.  Chapters:   00:00 - Introduction to Aurin Squire 00:49 - The Journey from Journalism to Playwriting 04:02 - Exploring Multicultural Perspectives in Writing 07:58 - The Dynamics of a Writer's Room 11:49 - Understanding Production Deals and Pods 18:04 - The Importance of Representation Behind the Camera 21:00 - Navigating Identity in Storytelling 26:04 - Future Aspirations and Storytelling Goals 29:51 - The Influence of Sports on Creative Discipline 34:13 - Self-Care Practices for Creatives 36:11 - Closing Thoughts and Reflections   Connect with Aurin on Instagram   Check out A Wonderful World the Louis Armstrong Story Musical on their website and on Instagram Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    40 min
  7. Theresa Wolters - MusiCares in the Grammy Organization

    09/24/2024

    Theresa Wolters - MusiCares in the Grammy Organization

    As Vice President, Health & Human Services for Musicares, Theresa Wolters leads on executing and advancing the vision and direction of all mission-based programs and services for MusiCares. Her passion for humanitarian services runs deep with a global journey that brings her to this dynamic conversation covering the impact Musicares has in serving our vast community of music professionals, “helping the humans behind music because music gives so much to the world".   Learn more about Theresa here.   Takeaways:   MusiCares provided nearly $36 million in relief during the pandemic.Artists play a crucial role in advocating for social justice.There is a significant stigma around substance use in the music industry.Every industry should prioritize the well-being of its people.Inclusivity is a core value for MusiCares.The Day That MusiCares fosters community connection and service.Theresa feels fulfilled in her personal and professional life.Americans are incredibly philanthropic and generous.Confidentiality and compassion are essential in helping those in need.The next generation of women leaders inspires Theresa.  Chapters:   00:00 Introduction to MusiCares and Theresa Wolters 02:50 Theresa's Background and Humanitarian Work 06:09 The Role of MusiCares During the Pandemic 08:55 Challenges in the Music Industry 12:11 Success Metrics and Community Engagement 15:03 Philanthropy and Fundraising Strategies 18:03 Inclusivity and Collaboration in MusiCares 20:58 The Day That MusiCares 23:48 Inspiration and Future Goals 26:56 Final Thoughts and Lightning Round   Connect with MusiCares on Instagram Check out the MusiCares on their website Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    31 min
  8. Kim Montelibano Heil & Victor Vazquez - The Economics of Casting

    09/17/2024

    Kim Montelibano Heil & Victor Vazquez - The Economics of Casting

    Casting Directors Kim Montelibano Heil and Victor Vazquez talk with us about regional casting, the economics and equity of theatre post-pandemic, and thriving as an actor and artist in regional markets.   Read more about Kim & Victor here.   Takeaways Regional theaters are crucial for developing new works and voices.Casting in regional theater involves a different set of challenges compared to film and TV.The pandemic has significantly impacted the economics of regional theater.Advocating for representation in casting is an ongoing effort.Success in the arts is not a binary of pass or fail.Actors can thrive outside of major cities like New York and LA.Building relationships in the industry is key to long-term success.Personal values should align with professional goals in the arts.The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.Community support is vital for artists to flourish.  Sound Bites "Regional theaters are vital incubators for new works.""Success is not about passing or failing.""You can live anywhere and participate in TV and film."  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Regional Theater and Its Importance 03:02 The Role of Regional Theaters in American Canon 05:47 Casting in Regional Theater vs. Film and TV 08:53 Challenges of Casting and Audience Expectations 12:00 Economic Impact of the Pandemic on Regional Theater 15:09 Navigating Casting Expenses and Equity 17:51 Advocating for Representation in Casting 21:05 Success and Failure in the Arts 23:51 Finding Equitable Opportunities in Different Regions 27:06 The Journey of an Actor in Today's Landscape 29:50 Personal Values and Professional Life in the Arts 33:02 The Importance of Community and Relationships 35:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Artists   Connect with Kim on Instagram Connect with Victor on Instagram Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    54 min
  9. LaChanze - Inclusion Behind the Scenes on Broadway

    09/10/2024

    LaChanze - Inclusion Behind the Scenes on Broadway

    Broadway actress & producer, LaChanze talks with us about the important work of Black Theatre United and The New Deal, her own journey as an actress and what inspired her to become a producer and soon-to-be director, changing the face of professional theatre.   Read more about LaChanze here. Keywords: Broadway, Black Theater United, inclusivity, diversity, representation, producing, directing, playwriting, Alice Childress, love, connection, vision Takeaways: LaChanze is the president of Black Theater United, a creative collective aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusivity in Broadway for black performers and artists.She is committed to increasing and diversifying audiences in the theater, and she believes that representation is crucial in both on-stage and off-stage roles.LaChanze is passionate about bringing the work of overlooked artists, such as Alice Childress, to the forefront and giving young artists the opportunity to have their voices heard.She has launched her own production company, LaChanze Productions, to have more control over the creative process and to support and develop new talent.LaChanze emphasizes the importance of love, connection, and vision in personal and professional life, and she encourages young artists to pursue their passions and be the change they want to see.Sound Bites: "I'm an advocate for black rights and black representation.""Being a woman of a certain age, being a black woman in my midlife who has had this experience, it does come with wisdom.""I needed to launch LaChanze Productions because I needed more control."Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to In the Podlight and Guest LaChanze 06:05 - Discovering the Need for Diversity and Inclusion in the Entertainment Industry 13:05 - The New Deal: Reforming the Industry for Equity and Inclusion 17:26 - Navigating Microaggressions and Ageism in the Entertainment Industry 21:29 - LaChanze Productions: Empowering Underrepresented Artists 27:21 - The Legacy of Alice Childress: Bringing Overlooked Artists to the Forefront 32:05 - Taking Control: Launching LaChanze Productions 37:42 - The Importance of Love and Resilience in LaChanze's Life 41:57 - Closing Remarks and Lightning Round Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    43 min
  10. Rebecca Damon - Union Policy + Stance post Actors Strike

    09/10/2024

    Rebecca Damon - Union Policy + Stance post Actors Strike

    As Chief Labor Policy Officer and New York Local Executive Director of SAG-AFTRA, Rebecca Damon talks with us about the importance of sister unions, the impact of artificial intelligence on the entertainment industry, and the need for actors to stay informed, get involved, and take control of their careers. Read more about Rebecca here. Keywords: Rebecca Damon, SAG-AFTRA, labor rights, sister unions, artificial intelligence, entertainment industry, actors, acting, actor life, career, Broadway, inclusivity, diversity, representation Takeaways: The SAG-AFTRA merger was a multi-year process that aimed to unite two unions representing actors and artists for the same work.The power of unions working together is crucial in achieving success and prosperity for their members.Artificial intelligence (AI) has a significant impact on the entertainment industry, and it is important to establish guardrails and protections for performers.Non-union actors should be cautious about signing contracts that may have conflicts or perpetuity clauses, and they should stay informed about industry developments and resources.Taking a leap and getting involved in union activities can be rewarding and empowering for actors.  Sound Bites: "The successful efforts in merging SAG and AFTRA back in 2012 were huge.""The unions and the industry worked closely together during the pandemic to ensure a safe return to work.""AI's impact on creative industries is a larger existential issue for everyone."  Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background of Rebecca Damon 07:12 - The SAG-AFTRA Merger 12:01 - The Power of Sister Unions 17:42 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Performers 27:40 - Advice for Pre-Union Actors Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    38 min
  11. In the Podlight - Teaser

    09/08/2024 · BONUS

    In the Podlight - Teaser

    Welcome to In the Podlight, the podcast where we shine a spotlight on creatives from all walks of life. In this teaser episode, hosts Caroline Liem and Grant Kretchik introduce the show’s mission: to celebrate and explore the diverse experiences and identities within the creative industry. This season, we're diving into thought-provoking discussions with a range of guests who share their unique insights and experiences in the post-pandemic entertainment world. Some of the guests you’ll hear from: Rebecca Damon:on the critical need for strong AI regulations to protect human creativity and the importance of prioritizing humanity in our evolving digital landscape.Greg Geffrard on the emotional impact of the pandemic and why many people struggled to return to the places where they once found joy.Victor Vazquez on how the decisions made in casting rooms are in constant conversation with the broader political and cultural landscape.Michelle Sugihara on the progress in nuanced conversations around identity, from race and gender to the intersections of LGBTQIA+ experiences.Join us as we illuminate the paths these creatives are forging, navigating both the challenges and opportunities that define the post-pandemic entertainment industry. Stay Tuned: Get ready for an inspiring season full of in-depth conversations, personal stories, and a celebration of creativity in all its forms.   00:00 – Welcome to In the Podlight   00:09 – Rebecca Damon on AI Regulations and Human Creativity   00:29 – Greg Geffrard on Post-Pandemic Joy and Challenges   00:44 – Victor Vazquez on Cultural Impact of Casting Choices   00:57 – Michelle Sugihara on Progress and Nuance in Representation   01:22 - Closing Remarks Connect with Caroline on Instagram Connect with Grant on Instagram Connect with In The Podlight on the Website   The Team:   Caroline Liem – Producer & Host Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor David Margolin Lawson  - Composer Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration   In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.

    2 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

In The PODLIGHT is a podcast that explores the post-pandemic landscape of the entertainment industry. We aim to engage in captivating conversations surrounding the challenges faced by creatives today, including issues related to representation, artificial intelligence, union strikes, streaming platforms, and the ever-evolving economics of entertainment.