Shows
The Story ProjectOn Broadway with Mariah ReivesMariah Reives is a dancer, choreographer, and entrepreneur who is currently performing in The Great Gatsby on Broadway. Her previous credits include Funny Girl on Broadway, Cassandra on the 1st National Tour of ‘Cats’ The Musical, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon. In today's episode, Mariah discusses her time performing on Broadway, why she stepped down as Dance Captain, and how she prioritizes her mental health. She gives advice including when NOT to get an agent, why we should focus on our weaknesses, and why she wishes she did more regional produc...
2025-07-2248 min
The Story ProjectImmersive Artistry with Clinton EdwardBrooklyn based Clinton Edward (he/they) is a choreographer, writer, actor, educator, and creator who has been the associate choreographer on productions including the Met Gala (with headliner, Ariana Grande), and Urinetown at City Center Encores (starring Jordan Fisher and Rainn Wilson), the assistant dance captain in the original cast of Queen of the Night (off Broadway), and founder of an immersive events company.In today's episode, Clinton shares how they've crafted their career in a way that's aligned with their desires, needs, and curiosities. He discusses the responsibilities of leadership in theater productions, what was harmful an...
2025-07-081h 15
The Story ProjectMaking TV with Deepti MenonDeepti Menon is an actress, animator, and filmmaker whose work spans music videos, commercials with companies including Nike, Facebook and Converse, and TV roles on Law & Order (NBC), The Equalizer (CBS), and I Think You Should Leave (Netflix). In today’s episode, Deepti shares her honest insight into the entertainment industry as a performer and creator and discusses:How she booked her television roles (and her thoughts on having an agent)Realizing her career in animation satisfied her pull towards acting and directingThe pros and cons of self-taping, and what shifted when sh...
2025-06-241h 02
The Story ProjectIndie Filmmaking with Isabelle BarbierWriter-performer Isabelle Barbier shares all of the details of her creative process including her journey from improv to scripted projects, where all of her plentiful ideas live, how she turns an idea into a full fledged film, and the impact of professional training (acting school!) on creativity.Isabelle and Jess discuss the importance of community and collaboration, the ins and outs of indie filmmaking, and the role of humor in addressing sensitive topics such as sexual trauma. This episode is for you if you’ve ever been curious about making your own work, have a story...
2025-06-1257 min
The Story ProjectIndie Filmmaking with Isabelle BarbierWriter-performer Isabelle Barbier shares all of the details of her creative process including her journey from improv to scripted projects, where all of her plentiful ideas live, how she turns an idea into a full fledged film, and the impact of professional training (acting school!) on creativity.Isabelle and Jess discuss the importance of community and collaboration, the ins and outs of indie filmmaking, and the role of humor in addressing sensitive topics such as sexual trauma. This episode is for you if you’ve ever been curious about making your own work, have a st...
2025-06-1057 min
The Story ProjectPart 2 with Chantelle GoodIn this episode, Broadway performer Chantelle Good discusses the pressing issues within the performing arts industry, emphasizing that representation alone is insufficient and highlights the importance of valuing the hard work of performers. She shares insights into the daily life of a Broadway performer, the challenges of being a swing, and the necessity of fostering empathy and compassion.Chantelle also shares a funny “swing” story and shares one of her wildest dreams. This episode is for you if you're ready to question the status quo, embrace the messiness of growth, and reimagine what lead...
2025-05-2728 min
The Story ProjectBroadway & Body Image with Chantelle GoodIn today’s episode, Chantelle shares about her journey to becoming a swing on Broadway, the importance of setting boundaries in performance spaces, and learning to use your voice. Chantelle and Jess discuss the unfortunate prevalence of body image issues in the performing arts community and practice navigating conversations about the topic. This episode is for you if you're questioning how to advocate for yourself in professional settings or looking to reclaim your individuality in an industry that hasn't always felt like it was for you.*This episode includes a conversation about body imag...
2025-05-2041 min
The Story ProjectMultidisciplinary with SpinksMultidisciplinary artist Spinks shares her journey through dance, acting, writing and ceramics as a queer, biracial woman. She shares why she walked away from musical theater, how she found freedom in commercial work, and the profound reason she hasn’t returned to a dance class…yet. Spinks and Jess also discuss the impact of capitalism on joy, creativity, and a building a career in the arts. This episode is for you if you’re looking to define success on your own terms, find fulfillment in your chosen craft, and carve your own unique path. Time Stamps & Topics00...
2025-04-151h 05
The Story ProjectOn Showing Up with Spencer MartinezSpencer Martinez, a South Jersey native with a love for Musical Theatre, earned her BA at FDU, becoming the first in her family to graduate. After backpacking through Europe, she kicked off her career with an Off-Broadway production in NYC. Adapting during COVID, she founded the LimeLight platform, providing accessibility and education to the industry.
Recently booking UGC for various companies and the NYC based "Moving UP" workshop, she not only strives for her own comeback but consistently gives back to the industry that fuels her passion. From a log cabin to Manhattan, Spencer's journey epitomizes resilience...
2024-12-171h 13
The Story ProjectTransformational Dance with Davalois FearonDavalois Fearon is a critically acclaimed choreographer, dancer, and educator, who is currently a Core Faculty Lecturer at Princeton University. Davalois was a 2017 Bessie awardee and a 2021-22 Jerome Hill Artist Fellow finalist. Her 12 years with the Stephen Petronio Company is now reflected in her work as founder and director of Davalois Fearon Dance (DFD).
DFD pushes artistic and social boundaries to highlight injustice and inequality and spark vital conversations about change. Fearon’s work has been presented nationally and internationally, including at the Joyce Theater and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Among many others, she has com...
2024-12-101h 04
The Story ProjectAn Awakened Voice with LOLOLOLO (also known as Lauren Pritchard) is an artist, songwriter, actress, composer and mom who has spent the last two decades writing and performing all over the world. She originated a starring role in the 8-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical Spring Awakening and has released 4 full length albums as well as numerous singles and features.
LOLO’s songwriting work with the band Panic! At The Disco earned her a GRAMMY Nomination and she is a co-writer of their international hit “High Hopes” which holds the title for the longest running #1 Rock song in Billboard Chart history.
I...
2024-12-031h 13
The Story ProjectConfidence in Color with Tamisha AnthonyTamisha Anthony is an illustrator working for clients such as Penguin Random House, Macmillan Publishers, Little Brown, and Chronicle Books. She recently finished her 6th picture book within 4 years, and is now working on her 7th and 8th.
Tamisha has taught at the New-York Historical Society and the Harlem School of the Arts, and is currently teaching an art history + illustration class called "Redrawing Black History" with Lilla Rogers for Make Art That Sells. Her new class "Find Your Art Style with Style" on the same platform will be available in 2025. Tamisha also writes and illustrates the article “Spillin...
2024-11-191h 18
The Story ProjectAuthenticity & Activism with Karma JenkinsKarma Jenkins is a multi-hyphenate artist whose work on screen includes The Time Traveler's Wife (HBO), Ghost: PowerBook II (Starz) and The Last O.G (TBS). She’s appeared in commercials for Amazon Prime & William Hill Winery and is a member of SAG/AFTRA & Actors Equity.
Karma has worked across the United States at reputable regional stages such as The Old Globe, 5th Ave Theatre & The MUNY, and has recently joined the production side of upcoming new stage works. Karma believes that the change we want to happen starts in our own backyards and she is dedicated to th...
2024-11-121h 20
The Story ProjectSustainable Dance Careers with Dinah HampsonIn today’s episode, Dinah Hampson discusses:
The importance of providing performers with the tools and resources to have sustainable career
Challenging the narrative that dancers must suffer and have short careers
Her online platform, Pivot Dancer, which offers resources and classes to help performers take care of their bodies and prevent injuries
The need for empowerment and mental performance skills for dancers
Abuse and unsafe practices in dance and the importance of creating a supportive community
Injury prevention, the importance of sleep, and the need to no...
2024-10-291h 16
The Story ProjectCulture, Connection, and Creation with JhansiIn today’s episode, Jhansi discusses:
Her recent move from India to America
The process of creating her music video “We Break Up Because of Family Reasons”
The challenges she faced as a musical theater artist in India
The cultural expectations and challenges of arranged marriages
Loneliness and struggling to find connection in New York City
Setting goals and exploring many interests
Jhansi is a musical theater director, creator, performer, lyricist, and composer. She takes her audience through a range of emotions from unexpected laughter to abrupt te...
2024-10-221h 07
The Story ProjectCapturing Life with Heidi Miami MarshallIn today’s episode, Heidi Miami Marshall discusses:
the importance of celebrating individuality in acting
the need to remove the concept of right and wrong in artistic expression
the connection between personal experiences and the interpretation of scenes
the challenges of navigating grief while immersed in professional work
the spiritual nature of art and the profound impact it can have on both the artist and the audience
embracing a non-linear journey and the importance of self-care
the empowering experience of challenging limitations
Heidi Miami Marshall’s career has spanned over 25 years as an Acting Coach, Film and Theate...
2024-10-151h 42
The Story ProjectChryssie Whitehead’s Own Little CornerIn today’s episode, Chryssie Whitehead discusses:
Her 25 year career across film, television and theater
Making her Broadway Debut in the 2006 Revival of A Chorus Line and being part of the accompanying documentary “Every Little Step”
Navigating rejection in the entertainment industry
Discovering the acting bug and the importance of staying true to oneself
Her experiences with depression and mental health, and how she found healing through therapy and medication
Creating and performing her show, 'In My Own Little Corner,' which aims to normalize conversations around mental health
The unpredictable nature of an acting career, including her experien...
2024-10-081h 35
The Story ProjectThe Soul of An Artist with Lauren MariasoosayIn today’s episode, Lauren Mariasoosay discusses:
The challenges and fulfillment she experienced when crafting the role of Catherine Parr in SIX The Musical
The importance of vulnerability in theater
Dealing with imposter syndrome
The impact of performances on both performers and audience members
The importance of swings and how difficult the job is
How family influence can affect one’s career choices
The importance of finding support outside of traditional family structures
Body image, finding routines, and caring for your wellbeing
Lauren Mariasoosay is an actress, singer, and dancer who is currently playing Eliza in the Hamilt...
2024-10-011h 51
The Story ProjectMental Health & Equity in Theater with Tuan MalinowskiIn today’s episode, Tuan Malinowski discusses:
their non-traditional path from musician to grass-roots choreographer
imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a choreographer
the importance of setting boundaries for mental health and how it has helped ease their anxiety
their experiences of quitting jobs because of emotionally unsafe and toxic environments
the impact of white supremacy in the theater industry and the need to focus on equity and inclusion in the workplace
the importance of challenging traditional practices in the current musical theater space
Tuan Malinowski is a New York-based director and choreographer, who most recently choreographed Cabaret at...
2024-09-241h 41
The Story ProjectSeason 2 Finale: Celebrating Where and Who We AreTW: Sexual assault
In the final episode of Season 2, Honza Pelichovský interviews Jess to follow up on last week's solo episode.
Jess shares:
The three changes she believes dance programs can make to improve the lives and careers of their dancers
Advice and loving words that she would tell my younger self
Whether or not she would take back her traumatic experience because of how it’s shaped her
How she feels about publicly sharing her story and the healing that it has offered
Her fav...
2024-06-211h 11
The Story ProjectThe Spark of The Story Project with Jessica AltchilerIn this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler dives into her personal journey and the evolution of The Story Project podcast. She reflects on her experiences, sharing anecdotes from her college years that shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for storytelling. Jessica recounts a pivotal moment in her life — her experience with sexual assault — and candidly discusses the profound impact it had on her. She goes on to share how the Me Too Movement influenced her and highlights the power of collective voices in fostering awareness and driving change.
@storyprojectpod
@jessaltch
jessicaaltchiler.com
Tr...
2024-06-0733 min
The Story ProjectThe Spark of The Story ProjectIn this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler dives into her personal journey and the evolution of The Story Project podcast. She reflects on her experiences, sharing anecdotes from her college years that shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for storytelling. Jessica recounts a pivotal moment in her life — her experience with sexual assault — and candidly discusses the profound impact it had on her. She goes on share how the Me Too Movement influenced her and highlights the power of collective voices in fostering awareness and driving change.
@storyprojectpod
@jessaltch
jessicaaltchiler.com
2024-06-0633 min
The Story ProjectTelling The Truth with Jenna UshkowitzJenna Ushkowitz is a SAG and Tony Award Winning Actress & Producer, voice actor and Podcast host. She is known for her role as Tina Cohen-Chang on the Fox TV show Glee and has appeared in Broadway shows such as The King & I, Spring Awakening and Waitress.
In today’s episode, Jenna discusses the beauty and pain that came from Glee, how she learned to separate her worth from her career, and the fear and confidence that comes from pursuing new opportunities.
She also shares how motherhood has reconnected her with her desires, how she learned to e...
2024-05-311h 33
The Story ProjectHarnessing Your Intuition with Lisann ValentinLisann Valentin, an established film and television Actor, a New York Times Best Selling Author, and Certified Spiritual Coach guiding creatives into personal transformation. From hit shows like Manifest, Narcos, and The Blacklist, to the New York Times best-selling anthology Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It, Lisann captivates audiences and readers with her raw vulnerability and empowering wisdom.
In today’s episode, Lisann shares her journey of self-exploration, authenticity, and reconnecting with spiritual roots, how she allows her heart’s calling to dictate the medium of expression, and the importance of honoring the union of all parts...
2024-05-241h 22
The Story ProjectReclaiming Your Artistry with Kaia GoodenoughKaia Goodenough is a freelance curator, writer and facilitator in London, particularly interested in interdisciplinary and collaboratively embodied practices. Kaia originally trained as a contemporary dancer at London Studio Centre and her choreography has been performed at Lillian Bayliss, Sadlers Wells, DanceEast, Battersea Arts Centre, The Place and the Point, and Eastleigh. She recently studied at the Royal College of Art graduating with a Masters in curating contemporary Art.
In today’s episode, Kaia discusses how she took her complicated relationship with dance and worked to reclaim it as her own, how being a dancer influences her ar...
2024-05-171h 10
The Story ProjectAllowing Yourself to Grow, and Pause, with Lee HubillaLee Hubilla is an actor whose performances have graced the screen on Law & Order: SVU, Dash & Lily, and FBI: Most Wanted and on the stage at The Magnet, The PIT, and Ars Nova. She was an acting mentee under Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab and had a writing mentorship under Giant Leap’s inaugural accelerator program.
In today’s episode, Lee and Jessica discuss the deeper rewards and empowerment that came from chopping their hair, the impact of dance on identity and self-perception, and the process of reconnecting with your body after trauma.
Lee sha...
2024-05-101h 32
The Story ProjectFrom Hamilton to Magic Kingdom with Lexi Garcia ToyeLexi Garcia-Toye is a distinguished dancer currently enchanting audiences with the Walt Disney World Company in Orlando, Florida. She previously performed in Broadway's "Hamilton," the touring productions of "Finding Neverland" and "Hamilton," as well as "Mamma Mia" at The Fireside Theater, "Whiskeyland" at the Orlando Fringe Festival, and "Le Cirque Bijou" on Norwegian Cruise Line.
In today’s episode, Lexi talks about the onset and recovery of her eating disorder, her magical connection to Finding Neverland, and her experience auditioning and performing in Hamilton.
She also discusses how the COVID pandemic altered the course of her l...
2024-05-031h 01
The Story ProjectSobriety as an Artist with Thomas HodgesIn today’s conversation, Thomas Hodges bravely shares his journey through the past six months of sobriety. He shares the impact it has had on his creative process, how we can become curious about toxic cycles and what no longer serves us, and what challenges have arose thus far.
Thomas and Jessica discuss the power of creating art from the feelings you are currently struggling with, the ability for artists to create meaningful connections and impact other people’s lives through their work, and one surefire way to get yourself to write a cabaret.
*Transcript availab...
2024-04-261h 26
The Story ProjectBuilding Your Creative Life with Ramita RaviRamita Ravi is a startup founder and artist. She is a professional dancer, choreographer, and educator with Bloc Talent Agency NY/LA. As a dancer, she’s worked on John Oliver and NYFW, and was one of the first South Asian dancers on So You Think You Can Dance and in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Ramita’s choreography credits include Coachella, Miss America, and Lincoln Center. She is the co-founder of Artswrk - a tech platform that connects artists with flexible work. She is passionate about representation, equity, and innovation in the arts.
In today’s episode...
2024-04-191h 04
The Story ProjectInternational Adulting with Honza PelichovskýHonza is a professional dancer who traveled across the country as the Dance Captain on the Dirty Dancing National Tour and the Fiddler on the Roof National Tour. He’s performed with numerous dance companies in New York City and is now living in Charlotte, NC with his partner and puppy, where he is navigating the next stage of his career.
In today’s episode, Honza shares the struggles in balancing personal and professional goals, how he chases his dreams while leaving room for those dreams to evolve, and his relationship with the natural craving for positive reinf...
2024-04-121h 14
The Story ProjectFacing the Real World with Honza PelichovskýHonza is a professional dancer who traveled across the country as the Dance Captain on the Dirty Dancing National Tour and the Fiddler on the Roof National Tour. He’s performed with numerous dance companies in New York City and is now living in Charlotte, NC with his partner and puppy, where he is navigating the next stage of his career.
In today’s episode, Honza expresses how he brought his ballroom dance training into his college training and professional work and how he deals with criticism and disappointment as both a student and professional.
Honza a...
2024-04-051h 38
The Story ProjectHonza Pelichovsky - Part 2Honza is a professional dancer who traveled across the country as the Dance Captain on the Dirty Dancing National Tour and the Fiddler on the Roof National Tour. He’s performed with numerous dance companies in New York City and is now living in Charlotte, NC with his partner and puppy, where he is navigating the next stage of his career.
In today’s episode, Honza shares the struggles in balancing personal and professional goals, how he chases his dreams while leaving room for those dreams to evolve, and his relationship with the natural craving for positive reinf...
2024-02-231h 14The Story ProjectSeason 1 WrapJessica emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and experiences as a way to connect and ignite empathy. She voices her belief that creating a supportive community is crucial for artists and humans to feel safe and well. Jessica also highlights the need for to take care of oneself holistically in order to sustainably fight for change.
Transcript available on our website!
TW: Sexual assault, eating disorders
2024-02-0903 min
The Story ProjectJessica ChenTW: This episode mentions sexual harassment and assault.
Jessica Chen is an American dancer, choreographer and Founder and Artistic Director of J CHEN PROJECT, a 501c3 nonprofit contemporary dance company. Her work has been presented at MoMA, Lincoln Center’s Restart Stages, Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, and MACY’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, to name a few. She’s currently on the director's team for The Messenger at Palm Beach Dramaworks and will next be choreographing Cabaret at Center Repertory Company.
In today’s episode, Jessica discusses the ins and outs of establishing her own dance company, w...
2024-02-021h 42
The Story ProjectKristin YancyKristin Yancy is an actor/dancer/singer/creator living in Brooklyn. Her long list of theater credits include Summer, The Donna Summer Musical and The Cher Show on Broadway, Guys and Dolls at the Kennedy Center, Gaslight with the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and playing Roxie in Chicago directed by Patrick O' Neill.
In today’s episode, Yancy talks about not going to college for dance and how she got into professional shape when she first moved to NYC, how she finds fulfillment in between jobs by creating her own work including her own immersive theater company, and how...
2024-01-261h 35
The Story ProjectDaisy Infantas-LagdamenDaisy Infantas-Lagdamen is a bicoastal professional dancer who can be seen dancing in the films In The Heights and Hocus Pocus 2, as well as working for top choreographers and directors such as Luz Frias, Luam, Bo Park, Jon Rua, Neil Shwartz, Ian McKenzie, and Candace Brown.
In today’s episode, Daisy discusses what was required of her on her path from training to professional work, how past trauma still influences her current dance journey, and the importance of shifting from external to internal validation.
She also voices the deep connection between students and teachers, how it i...
2024-01-191h 11
The Story ProjectAustin SoraAustin Sora is a professional dancer who has showcased her versatility through theater, concert dance, music videos, commercials, and work in the nonprofit sector. Her career has included performing in The Phantom of the Opera National Tour, dancing at Jacob’s Pillow with Bruce Wood Dance, assisting Marguerite Derricks, choreographer of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and becoming the Program Manager for the Broadway Green Alliance.
In today’s episode, Austin shares how experiences in her youth impacted her dancing long term, how her serious injury impacted her perspective on dance, and the unexpected joy of her simultaneous caree...
2024-01-121h 16
The Story ProjectGabrielle SprauveGabrielle Sprauve is a freelance dance artist and model who danced for Ballet Hispánico and is a founding and ongoing member of PARA.MAR Dance Theatre. She's performed in renown venues and festivals around the world, and has been featured on PBS and CBS, at the Kennedy Center, and in publications such as the New York Times and Dance Magazine.
In today’s episode, Gabrielle describes her journey towards advocacy, what it takes to speak up for yourself and those around you, and what is required of a leader.
She also expresses what challenges she...
2024-01-051h 08The Story ProjectJess Reflects on Episode 3In this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler gives a peek into her own story as she follows up on her conversation with Nando Morland. She shares a profound memory with him that sparked reflection on complicated relationships with movement, the importance of vulnerably sharing our stories, and how we can find rituals that best support our entire selves.
Transcript available on our website!
2024-01-0108 min
The Story ProjectNando MorlandNando Morland is a dancer, actor, and singer who has danced for Gallim, Madboots, and Punchdrunk’s Sleep No More. He has performed in the Broadway productions of West Side Story and Bob Fosse’s Dancin’, as well as the Fiddler on the Roof and Wicked National Tours.
In today’s episode, Nando describes his experience making his Broadway Principal Debut, the feelings that arise after a show closes, and how he maintains a healthy relationship with his career.
He also expresses his relationship with movement and his body, what he values both as a performer...
2023-12-291h 11
The Story ProjectAngela DeStasio LlanioAngela DeStasio Llanio is a dance teacher and choreographer, who was previously an NBA dancer for the Philadelphia 76ers. Angela's story is one of resilience, love, and passion.
In today’s episode, Angela shares the challenges of being a dancer with Cystic Fibrosis and what her day to day life looks like, the positive takeaways from her college experience in addition to what didn’t serve her, and why the NBA was a great option for her until the COVID-19 pandemic.
She also explains her teaching philosophy and the impact she wants to make, the unexp...
2023-12-221h 13
The Story ProjectSumi YuSumi Yu is a full-time professional actress working on stage and in TV/Film. Currently residing in NYC, she is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA and has performed at many prestigious theaters including Lincoln Center Theater and New York City Center.
In today’s episode, Sumi discusses how she chose a college program that would support not just her resume but her overall wellbeing, what she loved and what she’d change about her training experiences, and the importance of therapy and other tools to support our professional journeys.
She also expresses how her pr...
2023-12-151h 14
The Story ProjectThe Story ProjectIntroducing The Story Project: a podcast for artists to heal through conversation, cultivate community, and create change in the industry and the world at large. Our mission is to create healthier, safer, and more supportive environments for performing artists. We focus on identifying, celebrating, and paying attention to all of the elements that make a whole artist and we offer conversations, tools, and resources to help artists prioritize their well-being.
Host and creator Jessica Altchiler is an artist, teacher, and writer. Jessica has worked in theater and film as both cast and creative team member. She offers p...
2023-12-0101 min