Shows
The Staffa CornerHow Injury Changed Everything for Ballard Actor Alain UySend us a textWhat happens when your life's passion is suddenly taken away? For Alain Uy, a car accident didn't just end his dance career. it became the catalyst for an entirely new journey.The accident that immobilized him for several months forced him to find new avenues of expression, ultimately leading him to discover acting through theater. Uy also discusses his relationship with cultural identity and representation in Hollywood, revealing how his perspective has transformed. From initially distancing himself from his heritage to becoming extremely vocal about his culture.W...2025-08-0536 min
The Staffa CornerHollywood Dreams and Indie Realities: Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy's JourneySend us a textFrom childhood dreams to Hollywood screens, director Brendan Gabriel Murphy's journey captivates with its raw determination and creative resilience. The visionary filmmaker behind the psychological thriller "Fluxx" (starring Tyrese Gibson and Shelley Hennig) reveals how his childhood love of movies laid the groundwork for his directorial career.The conversation takes an intimate turn as Murphy discusses how parenthood has reshaped his creative perspective. While raising two young children hasn't changed his directorial style, it has profoundly shifted his motivation. "The entertainment industry, especially if you're a filmmaker, is very, very ego-driven," h...2025-07-1238 min
The Staffa CornerHollywood Beginnings: Mason McNulty on Acting, Music, and Riding into Billy the Kid's LegacySend us a textWhat does it take to build an acting career from the ground up? Mason McNulty pulls back the curtain on his journey from child actor to versatile performer, offering a refreshingly honest look at the realities of Hollywood.McNulty's story begins with his first role at just three months old—a PSA about safely surrendering unwanted babies that earned him the family nickname "dumpster baby." From these humble beginnings, he built an impressive resume including roles on Modern Family, Glee, and a recurring part on the Goldbergs spin-off Schooled, where co-star Br...2025-06-1937 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Kid Reporter to Rising Star: Lacey Katena's Journey of Self-DiscoverySend us a textWhat happens when you grow up with a professional mascot as your father? For Lacey Katena, it meant learning the art of physical comedy, performing without fear, and understanding how to read and respond to audience energy. These foundational skills served her well as she navigated early entertainment experiences as an NBA mini mascot and NBC kid reporter for NASCAR and Supercross events.The most profound moment in Lacey's evolution came during a transformative trip to Okinawa, Japan, where she discovered her family heritage and made the bold decision to change...2025-06-1937 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Classical Indian Dance to Hollywood: The Aparna Brielle StorySend us a textDancing between worlds comes naturally to Aparna Brielle. Her journey from performing ancient Bharata Natyam dance in Portland to starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger reveals an artist whose cultural roots fuel her creative expression.Working with comedy legends Glenn Howerton and Patton Oswalt provided Aparna with masterclass-level training, while Schwarzenegger's mentorship on FUBAR continues to shape her approach. Their guidance extends beyond performance techniques to navigating the industry's complexities, especially as a woman of color determined to create meaningful representation without being limited by stereotypes.Ready to witness a...2025-06-1425 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Mexican Stages to Hollywood Sets: Mariana Trevino's JourneySend us a textMariana Trevino's path to acting alongside Hollywood legends wasn't meticulously planned but unfolded through what she calls "hunches from the heart." Before sharing the screen with Tom Hanks and Owen Wilson, she explored dance, singing, and literature.In "Stick," Trevino portrays Elena, a Mexican mother navigating the delicate balance of protecting her teenage son while learning when to let him go. The role resonated deeply with her understanding of Latin American motherhood, fiercely protective yet facing universal parenting challenges.Ready to experience Mariana's captivating performance? Watch "Stick" on Apple...2025-06-1334 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Coach to Director: Michelle Danner's Path Through HollywoodSend us a textWhat drives someone to become the person trusted by Hollywood's best actors to help them deliver their most powerful performances? Michelle Danner pulls back the curtain on her fascinating journey from actress to renowned acting coach and director in this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast.Michelle shares, explaining how coaching actors evolved from necessity into passion. Her experiences directing films with actors like Paul Sorvino, Andy Garcia, and Abigail Breslin reveal her philosophy of creating "a theater company on film" by working repeatedly with performers across multiple projects.L...2025-06-1124 min
The Staffa CornerActing Was Never Plan B: Anthony E Williams' Strategic Rise in HollywoodSend us a textWhat happens when you combine business strategy with creative passion? Meet Anthony E. Williams, a corporate executive who didn't start acting until his mid-30s and has since appeared in Netflix's "Straw," Law & Order: SVU, and New Amsterdam.Williams brings a refreshingly pragmatic approach to the entertainment industry. When opportunities weren't coming his way, he created his own by writing, producing, and starring in "FAM" (Family Always Matters). He established WMZ Entertainment to house his intellectual property and approaches acting with strategic business thinking.Whether you're contemplating a career...2025-06-1140 min
The Staffa CornerThe Art of Authenticity: Anne-Marie Johnson's JourneySend us a textAnne-Marie Johnson takes us behind the scenes of her remarkable four-decade career in television and film. Growing up in a middle-class household with a police officer father and teacher mother, Johnson's path to success wasn't paved with industry connections but with determination and talent. The veteran actress discusses her iconic roles on "In the Heat of the Night," and "In Living Color." What sets this conversation apart is Johnson's candid assessment of what really matters in the entertainment industry. Johnson shares a powerful story about standing her ground when a...2025-06-1040 minThe Staffa CornerFrom Foster Care to Hollywood: How Zay Domo Artist Defied the OddsSend us a textWhat does it take to break into Hollywood with no connections, no formal training, and the added challenge of navigating the foster care system? Actor Zay Domo Artist reveals the extraordinary path that led him from group homes in Florida to major film and television sets.Zay's story demolishes industry stereotypes as he details his journey from humble beginnings to roles in productions like "A Quiet Place," "The Last of Us," and "Kingdom Planet of Apes." His career began unexpectedly with voice acting for major video game franchises including Call of...2025-05-2821 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Twilight Zone to Cryptic: Jeff Gladstone on Set Dynamics and Career LongevitySend us a textJeff Gladstone pulls back the curtain on the unpredictable world of professional acting, revealing the fascinating reality behind your favorite TV shows and movies. With credits including Fire Country, Virgin River, The Twilight Zone, and Resident Alien, Gladstone offers a refreshingly candid look at what it really means to build a sustainable acting career in today's entertainment landscape.Gladstone explains how improv teaches the authentic reaction skills essential for believable performances. Drawing from his own experience running an improv theater in Vancouver, he connects this practice to the evolution of filmmaking...2025-05-2830 min
The Staffa CornerFinding Voice Through Music: Shelea's Musical JourneySend us a textFrom harmonizing at age two to commanding stages at the White House, Vatican, and Royal Albert Hall, Shelea's musical journey reveals the power of authentic artistry in today's viral-focused landscape. The Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter opens up about finding her voice despite natural shyness, initially pursuing a career behind the scenes as a songwriter before being "pushed" into the spotlight.Perhaps most captivating is Shelea's candid reflection on her friendship with Stevie Wonder, which began when he heard her performing with vocal group Take Six. She reveals the human side of the global...2025-05-1648 min
The Staffa CornerSkyler Bible on 'Lilo & Stitch' and Finding Your Path in HollywoodSend us a textFrom high school theater elective to Disney's newest live-action remake, actor Skyler Bible takes us behind the scenes of his journey to becoming Agent Foster in the highly anticipated "Lilo & Stitch" hitting theaters May 23rd.Skyler shares his experiences on iconic sets like "The Book of Boba Fett," where Jon Favreau unexpectedly stepped in to direct his scenes, offer a rare glimpse into the surreal moments that punctuate an actor's journey.When discussing "Lilo & Stitch," Skyler describes how filming in Hawaii created an unexpectedly intimate atmosphere that felt more...2025-05-1633 min
The Staffa CornerShakespeare with a Soundtrack - Reviewing Juliet and Romeo and A Conversation with Alex GrechSend us a textSet 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...2025-05-0927 min
The Staffa CornerActing, Music, and Authenticity: Jet Jurgensmeyer's JourneySend us a textWhat 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 f...2025-04-2235 minThe Staffa CornerJonathan Bowen's Journey Through Film, Philosophy, and Finding His Way BackSend us a textThe 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...2025-04-1857 min
The Staffa CornerHappy People: How Andy James is Revolutionizing Flamenco JazzSend us a textAndy 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 foll...2025-04-1616 min
The Staffa CornerBeyond the E Street Band: How David Sancious Became Music's Special IngredientSend us a textDavid 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 techni...2025-04-1139 min
The Staffa CornerFinding Freedom Beyond the Screen: A Friendly Conversation with Falk Hentschel HenleeSend us a textAlthough 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 o...2025-04-0749 minThe Staffa CornerAuthentic Sound in a Digital World: Mark DiPietro's Musical PhilosophySend us a textWhat 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...2025-03-2730 min
The Staffa CornerReviving Rock: Lorraine Lewis on Femme Fatale, New Music, and Life in the SpotlightSend us a textPrepare 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...2025-02-1728 min
The Staffa CornerEmbracing Heritage and Dreams: Amielynn Abellera's Journey in ActingSend us a textWhat 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 art...2025-01-1342 minThe Staffa CornerNostalgia and Inspiration: A Journey with Rebecca Holden from Knight Rider to PhilanthropySend us a textRenowned 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 als...2024-12-2633 minThe Staffa CornerLorie Line's Musical Journey: Touring with Black Beauty and Preparing for the Holiday SeasonSend us a textPianist 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...2024-12-1713 minThe Staffa CornerFrom Courtrooms to Casting Calls: Stacie Greenwell's Inspiring Journey to HollywoodSend us a textImagine 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. St...2024-12-0346 min