Shows
The Staffa CornerShakespeare with a Soundtrack - Reviewing Juliet and Romeo and A Conversation with Alex GrechSet in 1301, when Italy was still barely an idea, Juliet & Romeo reimagines Shakespeare’s tragic story through a fresh musical lens. The film follows star-crossed lovers Romeo (Jamie Ward) and Juliet (Clara Rugaard), who must keep their love hidden as their families remain locked in a bitter feud. For those familiar with my reviews, you know musicals aren’t my favorite genre—not because of the songs themselves, but because I find it odd when characters suddenly burst into a choreographed number mid-conversation. That’s not my only hesitation. The bigger question is: Do we really need another r...2025-05-0927 min
The Staffa CornerActing, Music, and Authenticity: Jet Jurgensmeyer's JourneyWhat truly shapes a child actor's journey through Hollywood into adulthood? Jet Jurgensmeyer—who began performing at just three years old—offers insights into growing up in the entertainment industry while somehow managing to keep both feet firmly on the ground.From his first role at age four to his family's decision to move to California when he was five, Jet shares the behind-the-scenes reality of his childhood in the spotlight. Unlike the cautionary tales we often hear, his story reveals how thoughtful parenting and maintaining strong connections to home created a foundation that allowed him to thriv...2025-04-2235 min
The Staffa CornerJonathan Bowen's Journey Through Film, Philosophy, and Finding His Way BackThe journey from passionate film enthusiast to director isn't always a straight path. For Jonathan L. Bowen, that journey involved writing 600 movie reviews as a teenager, studying philosophy in college, and experiencing a decade-long gap between his first and second feature films.Throughout our conversation, Bowen offers fascinating insights into the changing landscape of independent film. He discusses how streaming services have evolved from neutral platforms showcasing diverse content to studios prioritizing their own productions, making it increasingly difficult for true indies to find audiences. Similarly, he notes how major film festivals now favor projects with celebrity...2025-04-1857 min
The Staffa CornerHappy People: How Andy James is Revolutionizing Flamenco JazzAndy James takes us on a captivating journey from Melbourne to Madrid and beyond in this illuminating conversation about fusion, culture, and artistic evolution. A world-acclaimed flamenco dancer who pivoted to jazz artistry, James embodies the beautiful intersection of seemingly disparate musical traditions.James explains how her latest album "Happy People" — recorded across five countries including Spain, Italy and the United States — represents years of creative development and features fourteen original compositions that showcase this unique fusion.James offers fascinating insights into flamenco's varied reception worldwide, noting its stronger following in European countries while remaining some...2025-04-1616 min
The Staffa CornerBeyond the E Street Band: How David Sancious Became Music's Special IngredientDavid Sancious doesn't just play music – he transforms it. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and original E Street Band member sits down for a revealing conversation that spans his remarkable journey from childhood piano lessons to collaborations with the biggest names in music history.From the moment Sancious describes his musical upbringing – classical piano from his mother, jazz from his father, and everything from Eastern music to avant-garde jazz from his brothers – you understand why he's become the secret ingredient in countless legendary recordings. His versatility isn't just technical; it stems from a profound, lifelo...2025-04-1139 min
The Staffa CornerFinding Freedom Beyond the Screen: A Friendly Conversation with Falk Hentschel HenleeAlthough we’ve only met once and spoken a handful of times, I consider actor Falk Hentschel Henlee and his wife, Kim, friends. We first connected at a comic con in Minnesota, where Falk was meeting fans and promoting his role as Hawkman on the CW shows. What began as a brief interview request turned into an entire afternoon spent with Falk and Kim. They are truly some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, and I’ll jump at any opportunity to reconnect with them or highlight their amazing work. One of the main reasons I start...2025-04-0749 minThe Staffa CornerAuthentic Sound in a Digital World: Mark DiPietro's Musical PhilosophyWhat does authentic musicianship look like in today's digital world? Mark DiPietro answers this question through five decades of dedication to his craft, sharing his remarkable journey from pretending a tennis racket was his guitar at age five to releasing two albums filled with real instruments and genuine expression.His debut album "DiPietro Leaving a Mark" and sophomore release "The 13th Wave" showcase his talent, featuring real string sections, layered vocals, and guitar work that speaks rather than simply impresses.Intentionally avoiding being pigeonholed, his music spans different genres and emotions, creating albums that offer...2025-03-2730 min
The Staffa CornerReviving Rock: Lorraine Lewis on Femme Fatale, New Music, and Life in the SpotlightPrepare yourself for an energetic journey with the one and only Lorraine Lewis, a trailblazer in the rock music scene since the 80s. Lorraine opens up about her dream to follow in the footsteps of her idol, David Lee Roth. Despite facing the intense challenges of a male-dominated industry, Lorraine’s story is one of resilience and integrity as she carved out a successful path without losing sight of her values. From signing a record deal to producing unforgettable music videos, Lorraine candidly shares the reality behind the rock and roll lifestyle, emphasizing the essential role...2025-02-1728 min
The Staffa CornerEmbracing Heritage and Dreams: Amielynn Abellera's Journey in ActingWhat happens when you choose passion over a traditional career path? Amielynn Abellera, our guest, shares her remarkable journey from Stockton, California, all the way to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. As a Filipino-American stage, screen, and voice actress, Amielynn’s story is one of self-discovery and embracing cultural heritage. From her early days on the sets of shows like NCIS to her transition from theater to television, Amielynn opens up about her internal battle between a promising path in medicine and her undeniable love for the arts.As she gears up...2025-01-1342 minThe Staffa CornerNostalgia and Inspiration: A Journey with Rebecca Holden from Knight Rider to PhilanthropyRenowned actress and singer Rebecca Holden takes us on a nostalgic journey through her vibrant career, sharing stories from her time on the iconic show Knight Rider. Her insights into the creative process, script adaptations, and the technical intricacies of working with the legendary Kit car offer a captivating glimpse into the world of 80s television. Rebecca’s reflections highlight the enduring appeal of Knight Rider, with its heartfelt storytelling and moral triumphs, underscoring the series' lasting impact on viewers and its empowering message of good overcoming evil.Rebecca also opens up about her current phi...2024-12-2633 minThe Staffa CornerLorie Line's Musical Journey: Touring with Black Beauty and Preparing for the Holiday SeasonPianist Lorie Line, who has sold over 6 million albums and continues to tour, performing around 50 concerts per year, joins us on this special shortened holiday episode of The Staffa Podcast. Listen in as Lorie calls in from her tour bus, sharing insights into her musical journey.From her beginnings in Reno, Nevada, to her rise in Minneapolis, Lorie's story is a testament to her passion for music and her talent for creating intimate connections with audiences.Lorie is currently wrapping up her holiday tour in places like Brainerd, MN, Grand Forks, ND, Bismarck, ND, Sioux...2024-12-1713 minThe Staffa CornerFrom Courtrooms to Casting Calls: Stacie Greenwell's Inspiring Journey to HollywoodImagine realizing your true calling in the midst of a completely different career path. In this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast we chat with the incredible Stacie Greenwell, a former lawyer turned Hollywood actress, who shares her compelling journey of leaving the legal world to pursue her passion for acting. As we explore Stacie's transition, she emphasizes the invaluable support she received from her family and friends. She speaks fondly of her mentor, the late director Jean-Marc Vallée, and the excitement of working on hit shows like Modern Family. Stacie also expresses her enthusiasm for he...2024-12-0346 minThe Staffa CornerRachel Stubington: From Stage to Screen and the Rise of 'Summer' in Apple TV+ Show ShrinkingRachel Stubington, the rising star known for her role as Summer in the Apple series "Shrinking," talks about her journey from the theater stage to the television screen. We explore how her character blossomed into a central storyline under the guidance of creator Bill Lawrence.Playing the witty and confident character of Summer offers Rachel a fulfilling and exciting experience, especially as Hollywood moves towards crafting more nuanced roles for young women. She recounts memorable moments like filming the viral "Cheater Bitch" TikTok video and working with industry legends like Harrison Ford.Her contribution to...2024-11-2337 minThe Staffa CornerExploring LGBTQ Representation and Authenticity in Acting with Devin KawaokaActor Devin Kawaoka joins us for a conversation about his roles on Apple Plus's "Shrinking" and NBC's "Chicago Med." He reveals how a character initially meant to be minor evolved into a significant presence, thanks in part to his dynamic on-screen connection with co-star Michael Urie.This episode also explores the broader capabilities of actors to step into roles that transcend their personal experiences, touching on the rich history of groundbreaking performances that have paved the way for more inclusive storytelling.His personal story intertwines with a professional journey, including memorable moments working alongside the...2024-11-0148 min
The Staffa CornerBalancing Acts: Douglas Vermeeren's Journey Through Stunts and CinemaDouglas Vermeeren joins this episode of The Staffa Corner to discuss balancing the worlds of acting, directing, and performing stunts. From his beginnings in Calgary to high-speed stunts on the rooftops of moving cars, Douglas shares experiences and insights. I found our conversation fascinating as we discussed the critical role of stunt performers in the film industry. Should actors perform their stunts, or should seasoned professionals take the helm? We also tackle the challenges faced by Canadian television in breaking onto US networks, delving into the cultural and financial hurdles that impede international visibility for ta...2024-10-3051 minThe Staffa CornerNCIS: Origins Actor Julian Black Antelope: Breaking Stereotypes and Redefining Indigenous Representation in EntertainmentActor, writer, director, and producer Julian Black Antelope joins me on this episode offering a fascinating look into his life and career. Julian shares stories from his early years in Alberta to his work in the entertainment industry. He shares his perspective on the representation of Indigenous people in film and television.He also talks about his new series NCIS: Origins airing on CBS. 2024-10-1848 minThe Staffa CornerThe Enchanting World of Shila Ommi - The Pixar Star Talks About Her New Netflix Series KAOSActress Shila Ommi shares her incredible journey from Iran to the United States offers us a window into her world and the diverse experiences that have shaped her remarkable career. From her role as Cinder in Pixar's "Elementals" to her current role in Netflix's "KAOS," Sheila captivates us with insights into her career as an actress, director, writer, and producer. Sadly, between recording and posting this episode Netflix has decided not to renew Kaos for a second season. 2024-10-1616 min
The Staffa CornerTransforming Struggles into Laughter - Actor-Comedian Aaron Foster Talks Comedy, Art, and SXSW HopesIn this episode of the Staffa Corner Podcast we sit down with actor-comedian Aaron Foster. Aaron shares his journey into the world of stand-up comedy. Aaron also opens up about his battles with depression shedding light on how these challenges have influenced his comedic voice and the transformative power of laughter in mental health.Additionally, Aaron shares his artistic endeavors, including creating artwork from vintage license plates and the emotional journey of publishing a poetry book by his late brother. This episode is rich with heartfelt stories, professional wisdom, and a shared belief in the p...2024-09-1338 minThe Staffa CornerChasing Dreams: Actor Greg Hill Talks About Life and His New Film AfrAIdOur guest this episode is the talented Greg Hill. He shares his journey from his hometown in Southern California to the demanding world of acting.In a world where egos can run rampant, Greg emphasizes the importance of respect and humility on set. Through engaging anecdotes, he sheds light on the often unseen dynamics between actors and crew members and why treating everyone with dignity matters. We also dive into the impact of his career on his family, especially his daughters. Greg provides a heartfelt reflection on nurturing children's passions and balancing personal achievements with h...2024-09-0938 min