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Naomi Snieckus

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A Love Affair with the Unknown  with Gill DeaconA Love Affair with the Unknown with Gill Deacon BARAM & SNIECKUS No script, no guarantees, all trust.Improvisational sketch comedy offers a master class in how to not just handle uncertainty but lean into it. Superstar improv comedians Matt Baram and Naomi Snieckus make walking the high wire of unscripted performance look easy. A couple both onstage and off, they have navigated huge life changes together, usually with laughs. When both sets of parents died, they set about processing grief—and a lot of inherited possessions— through their work. The result is Big Stuff, a critically acclaimed stage show that sold out an extended run in Toronto before touring Canada in fall 2025.In our conversation they talk...2025-07-0839 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJen Pogue reveals the challenges and triumphs of her creative journeyDon't miss this heartfelt conversation between our host Naomi Snieckus and Jen Pogue 💫 Jen reveals the challenges and triumphs of her creative journey - from winning a CSA for County Blooms to navigating her cancer diagnosis. Through it all, her resilience, passion, and commitment to community shine through. This insightful discussion touches on finding your own path, the power of collaboration, and the importance of following your gut.  This is a must-listen episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and plenty of laughs. Thank you to the pod team: Naomi Snieckus (Host/Prod...2025-02-1259 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentVeena Sood says yes to opportunitiesThis week on the Firecracker Department podcast, host Naomi Snieckus teams up with the fabulous Jody Quine from our Vancouver chapter to chat with the incredible Veena Sood! From feeling a sudden calling at the age of 14, to her early days of Theatre Sports with Keith Johnstone, to her starring role in Children Ruin Everything for CTV, Veena shares inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and so much creative fire!2025-01-291h 08The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentNia Vardalos gets incredible advice from the most unbelievable sources Actress and screenwriter Nia Vardalos has received advice and opportunities from some truly unexpected sources. While working the box office at Toronto’s Second City, she tells Naomi how she fell in love with improv, deepened her passion for acting, and prepared herself for a breakthrough moment—stepping onto the stage when another actor fell ill. That pivotal experience set her on a path to Chicago and then Los Angeles, where, during a moment of panic, a cab driver encouraged her to take a breath and trust she would succeed—and she did. Inspired by her own Greek family, Nia de...2025-01-011h 04Second Act ActorsSecond Act ActorsEP 153: Naomi Snieckus: FIRECRACKERS SPECIAL EPISODE!!!In this special episode, in collaboration with the Firecrackers podcast, Janet McMordie and Naomi Snieckus explore the evolution of their podcasting journeys and the importance of community in creative fields. They discuss the influence of their parents on their creative pursuits, the challenges of navigating the acting industry, and the invaluable skills gained from improv that enhance their professional lives. The conversation also delves into the birth of the Firecracker Department, a supportive community for artists, and the joy found in pursuing multiple passions. With a focus on supporting new talent and maintaining a sense of fun in their...2024-12-201h 10Q with Tom PowerQ with Tom PowerNaomi Snieckus & Matt Baram: Their new show about memories, grief & “big stuff”Naomi Snieckus and Matt Baram are a married Canadian comedy duo who have teamed up to create a new stage show called “Big Stuff.” It’s part storytelling, part duo stand-up and part improvised — but most importantly, it’s a personal reflection on the treasured keepsakes and unresolved emotions that are left behind when we lose someone we love. Naomi and Matt join Tom Power to tell us more about the show and what inspired it.2024-11-1220 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentMelanie Scrofano gives herself permission to fail In this special episode of The Firecracker Department Podcast, actor, writer, and director Melanie Scrofano (Letterkenny, Wynonna Earp) sits down with Naomi for a candid chat about their careers, the value of community, and trusting their instincts. Melanie talks openly about her ongoing struggle to balance everything at once and her passion for creating characters that feel real. Together, they share their experiences of learning to trust their gut, with Melanie reflecting on the power of finding joy and pride in the work she’s done. Naomi also opens up about her goals for The Firecracker Department—a place wher...2024-11-0642 minA View from the Box - The PodcastA View from the Box - The PodcastEpisode 5 - Naomi Snieckus and Matt Baram of "Big Stuff" at Crow's TheatreIn this week’s episode, I’m chatting with Naomi Snieckus and Matt Baram, a comedy power couple who are writing and performing in “Big Stuff” at Crow’s Theatre. Matt and Naomi met at the famous Second City Theatre in Toronto and it was love and first laugh. They wrote and performed 5 shows together and then went on to create The National Theatre of the World with MadTV alumnus Ronald Pederson and firecracker, Kayla Lorette. For 10 years they toured internationally and gained multiple Canadian Comedy Awards. Baram and Snieckus showcases the unique point of view and ch...2024-11-0438 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentMia Bella wants to be best known for connecting to others through her art At 15, actress and singer Mia Bella is carving a solid path for herself in the entertainment industry. Fueled by her passion for her craft and her parents’ unconditional support, Mia’s love of music at a young age has helped her pursue her dreams and she tells Naomi how much she looks forward to exploring more of her interests as her career progresses. Throughout her career, she’s learned to recognize when she’s about to burn out, how to deal with rejection and how to manage her expectations when auditioning. She shares how she’s learning to find the balanc...2024-10-231h 07The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentRobin Duke is improvising through her funny lifeRobin Duke is a comedy powerhouse whose talent spans all mediums. After getting her start on SCTV and transitioning to SNL as the first female cast member hired as a writer, Robin tells Naomi about her mission to write sketches that painted women in different lights and showed their strengths. She talks about how much she loved writing for other people, showing that comedy by women isn’t all about boobs, and the pressure she felt to perform. Though her tenacity landed her the job, she also talks about the downfall after being replaced on the show and how th...2024-10-091h 06The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAdeline Bird is a champion of rest & resurgence Adeline Bird is the true definition of a multi-hyphenate, unapologetic artist. As an actor, storyteller, director, author, podcaster and social worker (just to name a few), Adeline has taken all of her experiences in her various disciplines and used them to fuel her creativity and find her voice. She tells Naomi and Jennifer how important her Afro-Indigenous identity is, and leads them into a riveting conversation about the importance of rest amidst the hustle. While working on her current project, a sleep podcast called “Rest and Resurge”, Adeline creates decolonial stories, worlds without police and patriarchy, and encourages her list...2024-07-171h 11The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentTasha Hubbard is learning to find moments of joy and look ahead Documentary filmmaker Tasha Hubbard (We Will Stand Up, Two Worlds Colliding) always knew she wanted to be in the arts to help amplify and uplift Indigenous experiences. Although initially she was unsure where she fit in, when she met fellow Indigenous filmmakers Gil Cardinal and Doug Cuthand, her journey truly began under their mentorship. Throughout her career making documentaries, Tasha tells Naomi and Jennifer how she learned to give not only herself the space to heal and be supported, but also the brave subjects she features in her work. She’s also a seasoned academic, and shares the resiliency sh...2024-06-261h 05The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJessica Matten wants to be best known for being of service to others From a young age, actress and producer Jessica Matten (Dark Winds) has been focused on creating Indigenous communities to support and be of service to. From her first group Positive Beauty at the age of 13, supporting young Indigenous models with an undercurrent of mental health and wellness, to running programs with the Indigenous Film School and her own company 7 Forward Entertainment, Jessica is focused on consistently pushing others forward towards their goals and healing people through the arts. She tells Jennifer and Naomi about how coming from a multicultural background has given her the capacity to hold so much...2024-06-121h 14The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentKeilani Rose is on a lifelong journey to discover her voice The extraordinary Keilani Rose (Shoresy) is embracing the lifelong journey of self-discovery to find her voice as an artist. Born and raised in Lheidli (The Place Where the Two Rivers Flow Together - also colonially known as Prince George, BC), she tells Naomi and Jennifer how her roots in dance gave her a safe space to find herself and morphed into other areas of artistry she’s used to tell powerful stories. She also shares how her Indigenous cultural values serve as a reminder that all areas of creativity are interconnected, and how we can honour different parts of ou...2024-05-2952 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJennifer Podemski & Naomi Sneickus believe there’s comedy to be found in trauma In our kickoff episode for the second season of The Blaze Sessions, Naomi sits down with this season's curator, Jennifer Podemski. As a multi-hyphenate artist, Jennifer’s creativity knows no bounds, and she’s committed to highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity when it comes to Indigenous content and shining lights on aspects of the industry that still make her angry in an effort to force change. In this discussion with Naomi, Jennifer shares her views on the importance of grieving, how both grief and comedy exist next to each other, and her desire to bring people toge...2024-05-1535 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Blaze Sessions Season 2 TrailerWelcome back to The Blaze Sessions brought to you by the Firecracker Department! Season two is here, and we're thrilled! Hosts Naomi Snieckus (Mr.D, The Madness, The Social, Second City Toronto) and the incredible Jennifer Podemski, ("Little Bird", "Reservation Dogs" and founder of Red Cloud Productions and The Shine Network) have curated inspiring, engaging, and refreshingly honest conversations with women and non-binary individuals at the top of their game in the industry. From sharing insights on their creative journeys to discussing how they're changing the world through their art, these talks are the perfect blend of real, raw, an...2024-05-0103 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAlana Johnston wants to be the funniest she’s ever beenFor the past few years, performer and writer Alana Johnston has made it her mission to incorporate the theme of self-esteem into her artistic work. As the host of The Self-Esteem Party Podcast (on which this episode was first featured), she’s learned that the things we struggle with in regards to self-esteem might follow us forever, and that’s totally okay. She also shares how her perspective has shifted after some major events occurred in her life in recent years, and how she’s now using her art to work through those traumatic moments.  Through...2024-04-171h 02This Day in SportsThis Day in SportsApril 11 - comedians Matt Baram & Naomi SnieckusSend us a textFore! This Day In Sports drops another above-par episode today, and everyone out there in podcast land can do a golf clap to celebrate. Great laughs and great content about legendary names like Steph Curry, Jack Nicklaus, Warren Spahn, Kevin Costner and Bobby Hull. Plus: new ballparks, snowball fights, goalies scoring goals and an umpire you actually wanted to cheer for! Plus, with this being Masters week we've tailored our DORK DRAFT to be about the best fictional golfers of all time. We've also asked legendary comedy couple Naomi Snieckus (@snieckus) and Matt...2024-04-111h 17The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAnne Rab finds bravery in being bold on stage & in lifeAnne Rab’s improv career all started when she met a clown and stumbled into the art form that would change her life. Although it was difficult to make the transition from a city where she had stability and comfort to one completely unknown, she tells Naomi that learned that she didn’t want to play it safe and to make the choice to just go for her dreams.  Now, she carries this outlook through her teachings and thrives off of encouraging people to be comfortable with making mistakes and not worrying about “fucking it up” in...2024-04-0357 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentNadine Antler gives herself permission to do the things she lovesOne thing’s for certain about improviser Nadine Antler is that her strength lies in taking care of people.  From studying to be a social worker to putting on a decade-long improv festival and now running her own improv school, Nadine tells Naomi about her desire to help both actors and non-actors through the communication and boundary-setting skills that improv teaches.  But despite committing to help others with this, she reveals that her personal challenge is her inner critic and the disappointment she faces when it rears its ugly head on stage and takes her out...2024-03-201h 14The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentVanessa Matsui is a pro at taking things frame by frameWith her wealth of experience as an actor, writer, improviser, and now a director, Vanessa Matsui always finds time to look back and thank her younger self for having the gumption and bravery to take chances. By stumbling through her experience creating, writing, directing, and acting in the award winning series Ghost BFF, Vanessa tells Naomi about how she learned to just keep going and follow through on her impulses in every role she played. She also recounts the discovery she made that all roads were pointing to her beginning to direct, and how much she loves that it...2024-03-0658 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentInbal Lori has a plan to not have a plan Growing up in Israel, the multi-faceted Inbal Lori always knew she would be in the arts and fully embraced the holy trinity of acting, writing, and directing. But amidst her love for creation, she tells Naomi that before she moved to Berlin, she suffered when she played parts that she didn’t write because she wasn’t in control - even though she never had a “plan” in life. Little did she know that when she arrived in Germany, her love and passion for improv would take over her life and teach her how to work within a structure but also...2024-02-211h 12The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentMaria del Mar paved the way for all of us with power and passion Maria del Mar has never let fear hold her back from anything in her extensive career and expansive life. As a young actress with a passion growing up in Ottawa, Maria took a chance and moved to Toronto to fake it ‘till she made it, with roles on incredible shows like Frasier, 24, and Hudson & Rex. The more Maria took chances, the more life presented her with opportunities to try new things and learn from everyone she’s worked with. She tells Naomi how she vowed to always remain open to everything in life, and how there’s no such thing...2024-02-071h 00The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentBeatrix Brunschko navigates life with her three “me”sBeatrix Brunschko, aka Trixie, dives headfirst into every twist and turn of her incredible career. She's not just a director of the stage and screen – Trixie's a founding member of Theatre Bahnhof, a professor at the University of Hamburg, and the go-to guru for all things improv. Starting from the wild passion that birthed a theatre company to her game-changing improv workshops, Trixie's all about creating spaces where creativity runs wild and shakes things up for everyone – even our curious host, Naomi. She reveals her "say yes to everything first" approach, taking life as i...2024-01-241h 20The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Department 2024 TrailerRev up your year with a brand new season of The Firecracker Department Podcast! Let's ignite 2024 with an explosive lineup of captivating conversations. Join our sensational host, Naomi Snieckus, and an array of global artists as they take you on a heart-pounding journey into the depths of creativity and inspiration. But that's not all – mark your calendars because later this spring, we're bringing you The Blaze Sessions, a special mini-season featuring the extraordinary co-host Jennifer Podemski. It's a dynamic duo that will set your imagination ablaze! Each episode promises an electric blend of insights and innovation you won't want to...2024-01-1002 minThe Women Of Ill ReputeThe Women Of Ill ReputeNaomi Snieckus: The Rules Of Improv (And Life)Wendy has a problem with rules. But some rules matter. Like the rules of improv. Naomi Snieckus loves those. And so does Maureen. Naomi talks about Improv Rule #1: Yes, And. About the importance of supporting a partner in comedy or drama or a podcast. And yes, in life.Naomi started doing improv at Second City in Toronto, and is now an actor, producer, writer and director.She was on “Mr. D", “Degrassi”, “Pretty Hard Cases”, and voices a ton of cartoons.During “Me Too” she launched The Firecracker Department which supports creative women and non-binary people. She’s also...2023-10-3034 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJennifer Holness immerses herself in storiesJennifer Holness is not only a force to be reckoned with, but she is a beacon of change in the industry. An award-winning filmmaker and the co-founder of Hungry Eyes Media (with her partner Sudz Sutherland), she is the first ever recipient of the Firecracker Department's Red Point Award, going to women over 50 who are still creating incredible content and leading the way in out community. After a life-changing health scare in her early twenties, Jennifer learned to go forth confidently in the direction of her dreams to direct and produce, and never look back. Throughout her incredible career...2023-06-141h 19The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentWendy Crewson stands up for herself With a career spanning decades and a multitude of incredible roles in beautiful shows, it’s no wonder actor Wendy Crewson is one of Canada’s brightest and most beloved stars. With credits like Air Force One, Good Sam, Pretty Hard Cases, she is also known as a staunch advocate for ACTRA and FilmOntario and for the role she’s played in helping change the landscape of the industry. But, Wendy says she’s learned the most important person to stand up for, ultimately, is herself. She tells Naomi and Amanda about how much she loves to celebrate her own acco...2023-06-071h 16The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJennifer Podemski acknowledges all her little wins Juggling a work-life balance is difficult for many of us, but perhaps even more so for the multi-hyphenate extraordinary talent that is Jennifer Podemski. As she has navigated her career through acting, writing, directing, producing and showrunning (with her beautiful film Little Bird coming up), not to mention her companies The Shine Network and Red Cloud Studios she has learned a few valuable lessons along the way. She tells Naomi and Amanda about how the art of fear management and the importance of celebrating the “little wins” have helped guide her through various iterations of her career. She also spea...2023-05-241h 12The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentSheila McCarthy is just going to pretend Sheila McCarthy’s résumé truly reads like an adventure book with twists, turns and surprises that makes her one of the most versatile and unique artists in our community.  From playing a maid in The Littlest Hobo to her profound performance as Greta Loewen in Sarah Polley’s Oscar award winning movie Women Talking, her command of the screen is unlike any other - and really makes Naomi and Amanda wonder why she doesn't yet have the Order of Canada. Despite her prolific career, even Sheila has experienced moments of doubt and fear. She shares how jumping around various...2023-05-171h 09The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAdrienne C. Moore never wants to be a GOAT Whatever Adrienne C. Moore is selling - we’re buying! As the unpredictable drug squad detective Kelly Duff on Pretty Hard Cases, with some other pretty big roles under her belt (hello, Orange is the New Black!) we’d assume Adrienne had achieved GOAT status. But she proudly proclaims that she’d rather just keep striving for it than have already reached it. After a successful career in marketing, Adrienne tells Amanda and Naomi how she learned how to think of herself as a product and work within her own acting wheelhouse to make the shift into acting. And althou...2023-05-101h 09The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentGrace Lynn Kung doesn't like labels Grace Lynn Kung has reached a milestone in her life and career - being number one on the call sheet for the very first time as Marissa Wong in the new crime dramedy Wong and Winchester - and she’s celebrating every moment!. The road to get there hasn’t been easy, but Grace tells Naomi and Amanda how she finds that tuning in to her vulnerability and authenticity helps feed into the various roles she’s played - both onscreen and off. She also divulges how we often use age as an excuse to stop listening to people, remind...2023-05-031h 14The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentMeredith MacNeill is best friends with failure We know Meredith MacNeill as by-the-book, yet frazzled detective Sam Wazowski on Pretty Hard Cases and for her absurd and hilarious comedic sketches on Baroness Von Sketch Show which she wrote and starred in….but the truth is - she’s more than just the wild roles she plays on screen. The depth that she carries through her work comes from recognizing the truth of her life and how she sees the world. She shares with Naomi and Amanda that part of her comedic  process involves cozying up to her best friend: failure. From her upbringing in Halifax to perfo...2023-04-261h 07The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Blaze Sessions Season 1 TrailerGet ready for The Blaze Sessions! Award-winning actors and friends Amanda Brugel and Naomi Snieckus kick off their shoes and dive into honest conversation with eight women at the top of their game in the entertainment industry. It's a showbiz cheat sheet, a dose of creative inspiration and a great ride, all rolled into one.  Coming at you April 26.2023-04-1902 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAmanda Brugel finds beauty in her daily “delights” The incomparable Amanda Brugel should truly be recognized as an artistic chameleon. With her seamless ability to transition from comedy to drama - in roles like Karina Duff on Pretty Hard Cases and Rita Blue and then effortlessly to her work on The Handmaid’s Tale - Amanda is constantly reinventing herself and breaking away from the proverbial “box” that many actors seem to fall into. But her successes haven’t come without setbacks, and she tells Naomi how she’s learned to be open about her struggles throughout her life, and also to take time to appreciate the little “de...2023-04-121h 16Self Esteem PartySelf Esteem PartyNaomi SnieckusOn this week’s episode, Alana does a collaboration with Naomi Snieckus and the Firecracker Department Podcast! Alana talks self esteem and Naomi talks creativity and together they make for the perfect podcasting pals! Join our Patreon and for bonus episodes of Self Esteem “After” Party where Alana will catch up with former guests to see what’s been poppin’ off since they last spoke! Check out our merch on TeePublic! We’ve got everything you could ever dream of with Alana’s beautiful face on it! Instagram: @selfesteemparty Twitter: @selfesteemparty Email: s...2023-01-1056 minThe Comedy QuizThe Comedy QuizMatt Baram & Naomi SnieckusWelcome to the first episode of The Comedy Quiz! Host David Shore, welcomes the award winning and married comedy duo, Baram & Snieckus. Naomi will be known to Canadians from her 8 seasons on the hit CBC sitcom, Mr. D. Other credits include Disney’s Zombies 1, 2 and 3, plus she is the creator/host of the Firecracker Department podcast.Matt’s TV and film credits include, suicide Squad, Supergirl, Carter & Netflix’s upcoming, Painkiller.To get more info on Baram & Snieckus, including links to their podcast and social media, click here.To subscribe or Listen...2022-10-1127 minThe Comedy QuizThe Comedy QuizMatt Baram & Naomi SnieckusWelcome to the first episode of The Comedy Quiz! Host David Shore, welcomes the award winning and married comedy duo, Baram & Snieckus. Naomi will be known to Canadians from her 8 seasons on the hit CBC sitcom, Mr. D. Other credits include Disney’s Zombies 1, 2 and 3, plus she is the creator/host of the Firecracker Department podcast. Matt’s TV and film credits include, suicide Squad, Supergirl, Carter & Netflix’s upcoming, Painkiller. To get more info on Baram & Snieckus, including links to their podcast and social media, click here. To subscribe or Listen to the podcast of you...2022-10-1127 minThe Comedy QuizThe Comedy QuizMatt Baram & Naomi SnieckusWelcome to the first episode of The Comedy Quiz! Host David Shore, welcomes the award winning and married comedy duo, Baram & Snieckus. Naomi will be known to Canadians from her 8 seasons on the hit CBC sitcom, Mr. D. Other credits include Disney’s Zombies 1, 2 and 3, plus she is the creator/host of the Firecracker Department podcast.Matt’s TV and film credits include, suicide Squad, Supergirl, Carter & Netflix’s upcoming, Painkiller.To get more info on Baram & Snieckus, including links to their podcast and social media, click here.To subscribe or Listen to the podcast of your provider of choice, click...2022-10-1127 minHappy Funny AmazingHappy Funny AmazingA Story by Naomi Snieckus and Matt BaramSecond City Alumni and very funny married couple Naomi Snieckus and Matt Baram join forces to tell an amazing story that demonstrates the lengths people will go for love. Plus, the first 3 storytellers joining me in Stratford for Happy Funny Amazing Live, as part of the 2022 Stratford Festival's Meighen Forum are revealed!2022-07-1229 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentLisa BerryOur guest this week is Toronto-based actor, writer, producer, mindfulness and meditation coach and teacher LISA BERRY!   Let’s celebrate LISA’s Canadian Screen Award Nomination for Best Lead Performance, Web Program or Series for playing Notice in Obsidian Theatre’s 21 BLACK FUTURES!     You may recognize Lisa from her recurring roles as "Billie," aka Death, in The CW’s sci-fi-fantasy hit show SUPERNATURAL, as "Cleophas Garroway" in Freeform and Netflix’s SHADOWHUNTERS: THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, AND as “Natashia” on CBC and Netflix’s WORKIN MOMS.   When Lisa was 17, she was cast in a community theatre pr...2022-03-231h 07The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAlanis ObomsawinOur first guest of 2022 is singer, songwriter, artist, director, producer, one of Canada’s most distinguished filmmakers and member of the Abenaki Nation ALANIS OBOMSAWIN! Her 53rd film in her 54 year career is HONOUR TO SENATOR MURRAY SINCLAIR ! It made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and shares the powerful speech Senator Sinclair gave when he accepted the WFM Canada World Peace Award and interspersed with the heartbreaking testimonies from former students imprisoned at residential schools. Alanis’s other films include: JORDAN RIVER ANDERSON, THE MESSENGER (2019) is a 7-film cycle devoted to the rights of Indigenous chil...2022-01-191h 07The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentMadeleine Sims-FewerOur guest on the show this week is writer-director-actor-producer British-Canadian MADELEINE SIMS-FEWER. She has BFA. with honours in film production at York University and a MFA in acting at the Drama Centre London. She is an alum of the Berlinale Talent Campus 2016 and the Rotterdam Lab this year in 2021. Madeleine met Dusty Mancinelli at the 2015 TIFF Filmmakers’ Lab, and they  founded DM FILMS. Their jam is a naturalistic performance style with their films exploring gender politics, human nature, and abuse of power. Their debut feature, VIOLATION, had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Madeleine was a T...2021-10-131h 02The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentReel Women's Network Spotlight: Meosha BeanOur tenth Reel Women’s Network (RWN) spotlight is award-winning actor-director-writer MEOSHA BEAN. Meosha, founder of M.V.B Films, started filming and acting at the tender age of 7, inspired by watching horror films with her older brother and it grew from there. Meosha was voted the best upcoming director at the New Jersey Film Festival in 2012. Meosha directing projects include: the doc THE UNTOLD STORY OF MARIANO MENDOZA, MISS PEPPER an award- winning short that got over 30K views during its first week, horror film DELUSION and ANATOMY OF AN ANTIHERO: REDEMPTION (available on RWN), won Best Film at...2021-09-2959 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentBonus Episode: 2021 Live Blaze Award Presentation to Jo VannicolaBonus Episode: the 2021 live red carpet Blaze Award presentation to  screenwriter-author-advocate-and-Emmy Award-winning actor Jo Vannicola. The Blaze Award is presented to a spectacular woman or non-binary artist who has outstanding achievements in their artistic field and givebacks to their community.  It was a unanimous decision to present this year’s Blaze Award to Jo. Whether they are in front or, behind the camera or at outACTRAto, they approach everything with integrity and a joyful heart that inspires others to want to create and lead with the same level of passion, vulnerability and drive.  LINKS: @joannevannicola 2021-09-2224 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentBONUS EPISODE: WORK IN PROGRESS July 2020 PanelThis week’s episode is a throwback to our exciting Facebook Live WORK IN PROGRESS Panel from last July 2020.   WORK IN PROGRESS is about Abby, a forty five-year-old self-identified fat, queer dyke whose misfortune and despair unexpectedly lead her to a vibrantly transformative relationship.     Panel Guests: Abby McEnany stars as Abby and is the co-creator of WORK IN PROGRESS Celeste Pechous @celesteinclogs stars as Campbell, Abby’s bestfriend (Twitter: @cpechous) Mary Sohn @maroldswan stars as Susan, Abby’s annoying officemate Kate James stars as Miriam and is a writer for the show...2021-09-011h 16The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentRebecca LeibOur guest on the show this week is writer, podcaster, comedian REBECCA LEIB! Most recently, she’s been working as a writer-producer on NatGeo’s “Brain Games" reboot with Keegan Michael Key! Rebecca has also been a writer for Disney, CBS, NBC Digital, and Investigation Discovery! She’s written hilarious and brilliant stuff online for VICE, Reductress, LA-ist, LA WEEKLY, The Rumpus, and more! And you may have had this firecracker in your ears already, on her comedy-meets-strange history podcast "Ghost Town!"   Follow Rebecca!  @rebeccaleib @ghosttownpod https://losangeleno.com/strange-da...2021-03-091h 03The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Molly McGlynnThis week Veronica Martin joins Naomi, Emily and AJ to chat about Molly McGlynn's Episode. They discuss her confident approach to directing, hiding the internal chaos and how to identify and normalize failures. Enjoy! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @Naomi Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and core member Veronica Martin the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! If you haven't yet heard this week's episode yet, listen now wherever you find podcasts!2020-11-2618 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Erin KarplukNaomi, AJ, Emily and guest Core Member Sarah Beaudin got together to talk about the one and only Erin Karpluk! All four could not get over her humility, kindness, and genuine excitement for the work she gets to do! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @Naomi Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sarah Beaudin on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now!  If you haven't yet heard this week's episode yet, listen now wherever you find podcasts!2020-11-1210 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: TJFF Comedy PanelNaomi, AJ, Emily and guest Core Member Anna Gustafson got together to talk about the hilarious panel Naomi hosted at the Toronto Jewish Film Festival in 2019. On the panel were history-making comedians: Marla Lukofsky, Monica Parker, Gay Claitman and Rosemary Radcliffe. What a wild conversation they got into and the Firecracker team had a blast talking about the dedication, the fearless desire to do other things, and the guts it takes to be funny.2020-10-2222 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Laura RivasLaura Rivas is the embodiment of joy and enthusiasm for her work. She and Naomi jumped into a conversation about her work ethic, the guilt and stress of no-budget creation and how our attitudes are what keep us focussed. Our team fell in love with her energy and excitement for her work and the collaborative process. In this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk about how much we all understand Laura's journey, our appreciation for natural familial comedy and how a story worth telling is worth fighting for. Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @Naomi Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje...2020-10-1516 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Marquesha BabersMarquesha Babers is a legend in the making. She and Naomi had a genuine and inspiring conversation, discussed how life affects art and how an artist can be born without evening knowing it. Our team fell in love with her heart and mind! In this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk owning your history, not being afraid to feel and how we are all emotional beings working to bring our artists energy to the world! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @Naomi Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and R.L. Read on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 2020-10-0817 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Eva TaylorEva Taylor is a writer, script coordinator, former attorney, and the founder of Chicks with Scripts. Eva’s worked on The Red Line, Paradise Lost, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and more! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Nadine Brito on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you haven't yet heard the episode, listen wherever you subscribe to podcasts!   Follow Eva on Twitter  Check out the 2019 Firecracker Chicks Awards on IG Chicks With Scripts Website    Follow us on Ins...2020-10-0111 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Michelle ButeauMichelle has been on all our minds all year, just as she’s been on our TV screens all year! From Netflix’s Always Be My Maybe, The Circle, Tales of the City, and Work It! In this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk about being funny without making fun of people, fairy godmothers with back fat, honest conversations, getting dressed up to go to the kitchen, and what the team's up to lately!  Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and FD community member Alissa Abeler on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you h...2020-09-2414 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Karen GraciCatch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Nadine Brito @nadine_brito on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you haven't yet heard this week's ep with the glorious @thatgirlkarengraci, get on it! In this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk about unplanned decision-making, energy flow, what keeps you creating, planting seeds, actors dating non-actors, crying on the 405, shame vs accountability and more!2020-09-1111 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow LIVE: Lesli Linka GlatterWe streamed a new, LIVE Aftershow to talk about director and Emmy nominee Lesli Linka Glatter's podcast episode. 🧨 Come join us for the chat, streamed live on Facebook, Thursday Sept 3rd at 1pm PT / 4pm ET! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Firecracker Community Member Sedina Fiati @bwheelsheels on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you haven't yet heard the episode, listen wherever you subscribe to podcasts!  2020-09-0422 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Andrea DorfmanCatch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and firecracker community member Alissa Abeler on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! Andrea has so many different outlets for her creativity, from animation to directing to tiny book creation, she really seems to do it all! This episode made our team think about how art can save you, being honest about how you're doing, COVID solitude, empathy, and what they're up to now!2020-08-2714 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Mozhdah JamalzadahCatch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sarah Potter @ssass34 on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! This Aftershow episode, the team chats about Mozhdah’s vibrance and artistry, her selfless choices, triple threat status, attempting to understand fame, and what they’re up to now!2020-08-2010 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Lauren KisilevskyLauren and Naomi met on Disney’s Z-O-M-B-I-ES set, but their artist connection has extended way beyond actor + executive. Our team identified with learning to fail, writing to talk about how smart you are, the bullshit paragraph, systemic Canadian caution, not going to graduation, forward-critical-thinking, and learning conversations! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sarah Deakins @deakinssarahc  on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you haven't yet heard the episode, listen wherever you're listening now!2020-08-1311 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jet WilkinsonJet's episode and journey made everyone want to be a part of her work! In this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk about identity, blending labels, leadership on sets, their favourite films, social media's effects on creativity, and what the team's up to lately! 🧨💥 Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sarah Potter @ssass34 on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 😍 If you haven't yet heard the episode, listen wherever you're listening now!2020-07-3113 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Celeste PechousCeleste made us all laugh this week in her episode and on our Work In Progress panel, and in this #firecrackerAFTERSHOW we talk about selfishness and comedy, playing yourself, improvisation as self-acceptance, crazy ballerinas, her amazing attitude, and what the team's up to lately! Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Rebecca @rebeccaloops on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 2020-07-2513 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Kay CannonKay inspired and impressed the pants off our team in her episode. We talk about moving from acting to writing, Kay's philosophy of "jokes & songs" on set, self-care in quarantine, beautiful oops/happy accidents, and what the team's up to lately! 🧨💥 Catch up with firecracker core members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sarah Deakins @sarahdeakins on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now!2020-07-1611 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jerrica LongJerrica shared so many goals, writing and career advice, and our team fell in love! We talk about all her wisdom, how you live affects your art, and coming out to yourself. 🧨💥 Catch up with Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Rebecca @rebeccaloops on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now!2020-07-1012 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Helen ZukermanHelen Zukerman is the Artist Director and Co-Founder of one of Toronto's best festivals, the Toronto Jewish Film Festival (TJFF). She leant Naomi her wisdom on leadership, being okay with the answer "no" and never taking less than best. We loved her episode! Catch up with Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Camille Adams @camilleadamsfilm on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 🧨💥 The online festival goes live this SATURDAY MAY 30th, and runs until SUNDAY JUNE 7th! Make sure to follow @TJFFgrams to keep up with the festival’s programming, get your virtual cinema tickets, and chec...2020-05-2911 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Marie ClementsMarie has been changing the world with her stories for decades and this week her new film Red Snow is being released! We loved listening to her interview and chatting about the incredible viewpoints she offers the world. Join us! Catch up with Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Camille Adams @camilleadamsfilm on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now! 🧨💥2020-05-1511 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Sydney Poitier HeartsongCatch up with Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Anna @tooconvoluted on the newest Firecracker Aftershow now!    You know her from Carter, Deathproof, and Chicago PD - Sydney Poitier Heartsong is a gem and we loved chatting about her episode on this weeks After Show!2020-05-0813 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jess SalgueiroCatch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill Anna @tooconvoluted and Avelyn @avelyn.graye and what they thought of the @JessSalgueiro episode! Jess Salguerio is a Canadian wonder, appearing on multiple television shows and giving back to her community. Avelyn, Anna, Naomi and Emily all loved her episode and are thrilled to share their thoughts. Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept and find this awesome Aftershow and more over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey!2020-05-0613 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Ophira EisenbergCatch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Anna @tooconvoluted, and what they thought of the @OphiraE episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept and find this awesome Aftershow and more over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey!2020-05-0513 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jenna RickerCatch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Chelsey @chelseymackenzie  as we talk about the Jenna Ricker episode. She's sharp and focused, filled with wisdom and endless ideas! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in FULL over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey! 🧨💥 Find Jenna on twitter @rickernyc and on IG @rickster5000!2020-04-2912 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Sarah McVieCatch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Veronica Martin @veronicaannemartin as we talk about the Sarah McVie episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in video form over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey!  Find Sarah on social media @sarahmcvie.2020-04-2412 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentLA Comedy PanelOur guests (plural!) on the podcast this week are coming to you LIVE from the launch of our LA chapter at the Impro Theatre in Los Angeles!  We hosted a fierce panel of LA comedians led by Naomi @snieckus, including Alana Johnston, Madi Goff, and Katie Thomas, in front of our first-ever live firecracker audience! This hilarious panel of ladies talk candidly about building your own reputation, Mary Tyler Moore, complaining vs self deprecation, feminism, elbows and more! AND we promise it doesn’t start with "What's it like to be a WOOOMAN in COOOMEDY?!?" ...because BLHSNCLVRPJGJPERVMS!...2020-02-1151 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Caitlin CronenbergChantal Kreviazuk is has rattled the charts, radio stations and now, our minds. Join the Firecracker Core team as they discuss her amazing interview and the topics of resilience, fear and standing up for what you believe in. This episode includes core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sydney @sydney_neilson as we talk about the Chantal Kreviazuk episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in video form over on our YouTube channel! Come say hey!2020-01-2814 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Caitlin CronenbergCatch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sydney @sydney_neilson as we talk about the Caitlin Cronenberg episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in FULL over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey!2020-01-1414 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentBONUS: Live Foodie PanelNaomi Snieckus moderates a panel of four female food & drink entrepreneurs, hosted by Pioneering Women.2019-12-091h 21The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Allana Harkin!Catch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Winnie @wonder_wong as we talk about the Allana Harkin episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in full over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey! Find Allana on social @AllanaHarkin.2019-11-3011 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentAllana HarkinThis week's guest is actor, writer, director, ALLANA HARKIN! She's a producer and correspondent for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee (recently renewed for SEASON FIVE!), director of the short film The Godmother, a queen of improv, playwriting, acting, and more... this woman has so much to share and it was SO GREAT to really dig in in this chat! We talk about premature mom-casting, Oprah, playwriting, exercising muscles to make things happen, caring less, inspirations, relaxations, and some of the best “advice to yourself” that you HAVE to hear - I may make it my morning alarm. Seriously. G...2019-11-191h 31The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jessica Ellis!Catch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Deanna @deanna_moffitt as we talk about the Jessica Ellis episode! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in full over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey! Find Jessica on social media @baddestmamajama.2019-11-1112 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentJessica EllisHey Firecrackers! I met up with writer/director Jessica Ellis in LA just a few weeks ago. We had this chat right before the premiere of her debut feature What Lies West. We got into SO many things! Seasonal creativity, LA, connecting to nature, open heart surgery (!!!), first time director feels, anxiety, chronic pain, crowdfunding, Twitter, and AHHhhjjjgkkg just so much more! Such a quotable episode. This was a super fun chat and I can't wait for you to hear it so go on, press play! (Tap play? Swipe play? Whatever you have to do, get into it!) Find...2019-11-011h 12The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentFirecracker Aftershow: Jann Arden!Catch up with our firecracker core team members Naomi @snieckus Emily @emchurchill AJ @atotheje and Sydney @sydney_neilson as we talk about the hilarious Jann Arden episode, how family shapes who you become, JANN on CTV, "becoming a person," slogan dads, casual bisexual icons, and more! Let us know what resonated with you too! Reach out anytime @firecrackerdept, and find this awesome Aftershow in full over on our Youtube channel! Come say hey!2019-10-0115 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentGabrielle RoseIn this week’s episode Naomi Snieckus sits down with Gabrielle Rose at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival to discuss her extensive acting career, aging in the entertainment industry, choosing projects for her artistic interest, and learning lessons from every struggle and downfall she’s ever encountered. For more on Gabrielle follow her on Twitter @GabrielleRose79. If you loved this episode feel free to leave a comment on our iTunes or even better share it! For more Firecracker Department podcasts be sure to subscribe on iTunes and for more awesome Firecracker Department content follow on Twitter and Inst...2019-05-311h 02The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentRenee BeaulieuRenee Beaulieu’s film credits include Les Salopes (2018), Adrien (2015), Le Vide (2011), Coupable (2010), Qui (2008), and Le Ring (2007). Welcome Firecrackers! In this episode Naomi Snieckus interviews director, writer, and filmmaker, Renee Beaulieu at the Toronto International Film Festival. Take a listen as Renee talks about her creative process, the incredible films she’s made, and following her instinct. For more on Renee follow her on instagram @renee_beaulieu and twitter @Reneeebee. For more Firecracker Department episodes hit the subscribe button on iTunes and follow on Twitter and Instagram @Firecrackerdept. Thanks for listening all you bodacious firecrackers!2019-05-171h 04The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentKate DrummondWelcome back Firecrackers! In this episode Naomi Snieckus chats with the incredible Kate Drummond. Kate is multi-talented actor, director, producer, and writer with an extensive list of credits. Naomi and Kate take a moment to chat at the Toronto International Film Festival about Kate’s transition from being a full time elementary school teacher to full time actor, her venture to LA, and following her calling that has resulted in a crazy successful career. For more information on Kate check out her website, katedrummond.com and follow her on twitter @KateDrummond_ and instagram @kate_drummond. While you’re giving her...2019-05-031h 15The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentCarolina HellsgardCarolina’s film credits include Ever After (2018), Wanja (2015), Runner (2013), & Heroes (2012). Hey firecrackers tune in to this awesome podcast episode featuring Swedish born and Berlin based writer-director, Carolina Hellsgard. Host, Naomi Snieckus, and Carolina chat during TIFF where her latest feature, Ever After (Endzeit) was screening. Talk about awesome! Snieckus and Hellsgard dive into the world of directing, collaborative filmmaking, and her incredible work ethic. For more information please visit her website, www.hellsgard.com. And if you enjoyed this podcast don’t forget to leave a review and hit the subscribe button on itunes to stay up to d...2019-04-1958 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentIngrid VeningerIngrid’s credits include: The World or Nothing (2019), Porcupine Lake (2017), He Hated Pigeons (2015), The Animal Project (2013), I Am a Good Person/I Am a Bad Person (2011), Modra (2010), Only (2008), Friday the 13th The Series (1987-1990), & Airwaves (1986-87). Welcome back all you firecrackers! In this episode, Naomi and Ingrid sit down during the Toronto International Film Festival and talk about the beautiful mind behind projects such as Animal Project, Porcupine Lake and The World or Nothing. Ingrid started as an actor at a young age but soon discovered she had a voice that needed to be expressed as a wr...2019-04-051h 08The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentTamara PodemskiHi Firecrackers! Join me, Naomi Snieckus, as I dive deep into conversation with Tamara Podemski (Coroner/CBC, Never Saw It Coming/Crave) into what it took for her to become the amazing, multi-dimensional artist that she is today. We sat down and talked about her early days doing “Annie” with her sisters (Jennifer and Sarah) and her keen snow shoveling skills she is teaching her husband (Jamie King) now that they are living in Canada again. I’m so honoured to have this heartfelt discussion about her acting life and her family life. I was a fan before but now I’...2019-03-221h 27Welcome with Karim KanjiWelcome with Karim KanjiNaomi SnieckusNaomi Snieckus is an award-winning actress and comedian, one of the stars of Mr. D and host of the Firecracker Department podcast.2019-03-1150 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentArwen HumphreysHi-ho! Hi-ho! Does everyone start their acting careers as one of Snow White’s assorted dwarves? Naomi and Arwen Humphreys (Saving Hope, Murdoch Mysteries) discover this about each other, as well as being an “Arwen” or a “Naomi” in schools filled with Megans, Ashleys and Jennifers is not always easy.  Arwen was discovered at a very young age and put right to work. She has enjoyed playing Margaret Brackenreid on Murdoch Mysteries for 11 seasons that started as a small role!. She respects and understands the work that needs to happen, professionally, personally and spiritually and knows that sometimes the darker plac...2019-02-221h 31The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentKat BarrellJoin Firecracker host, Naomi Snieckus, as she chats with Kat Barrell! You know and love Kat from Wynonna Earp, Workin’ Moms, Girls Night Out, Murdoch Mysteries and so much more. Listen as Naomi and Kat talk about acting, directing, mental health, and general life advice. Follow Kat on Twitter and Instagram @katbarrell. For more awesome inspiring Firecracker episodes don’t forget to subscribe on iTunes and visit our contact page to sign up for our monthly newsletter. 2019-02-091h 23Someone Else\'s MovieSomeone Else's MovieNaomi Snieckus on The Zen Diaries of Garry ShandlingIt's our 200th episode, and actor, writer, funny person and insightful podcaster Naomi Snieckus is here to help us celebrate it -- which makes perfect sense, since her choice of Judd Apatow's The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling is all about self-knowledge as a conduit to comedy. Your genial host Norm Wilner apologizes in advance for all of the personal material. 2018-11-131h 20The Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentCheri OteriFirecrackers! What are you up to lately? Whatcha reading, listening to, watching? For me, I recently watched the Garry Shandling documentary on Netflix and it really stuck with me. Garry was one of the funniest, smartest minds of our time and watching the way he did things made me go back and take a look at my own process. It was so inspiring, but also a bit daunting, because to get to the level of someone like Garry is no easy task. It caused me to get a bit down on myself, but at the end of the day...2018-09-061h 53Business MicBusiness Mic122: Naomi Snieckus - Life Lessons from ImprovNaomi is a writer, improviser, actress and comedian, best known for her regular television role as Bobbi in Mr. D and her appearance as Nina in Saw 3D. She is also the host of a podcast called Firecracker Department in which she interviews the brightest minds and most charismatic women in entertainment. In this episode, we discuss her career and life lessons she's learnt from comedy.2018-06-1100 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentPowerful MeBONUS EPISODE! Hey firecrackers! Every month we're asking you a new question, what we're calling the Spark Question of the month! We want to continue to inspire you and everyone in our community, so please tell us your answers so we can all share our experiences! In April we asked you: What makes you feel powerful? The feedback you gave us was amazing, so much so that Naomi recorded and commented on your answers!! Give it a listen:2018-05-2516 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentSpark Question - Possible FailureBONUS EPISODE! Hey firecrackers! Every month we're asking you a new question, what we're calling the Spark Question of the month! We want to continue to inspire you and everyone in our community, so please tell us your answers so we can all share our experiences! In March, we asked you: IF NEITHER SUCCESS NOR FAILURE WERE AN OPTION, WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU'D PURSUE?  The feedback you gave us was amazing, so much so that Naomi recorded and commented on your answers!!2018-04-1609 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentBonus Episode - Advice To Your Younger SelfBONUS EPISODE! Hey firecrackers! Every month we're asking you a new question, what we're calling the Spark Question of the month! We want to continue to inspire you and everyone in our community, so please tell us your answers so we can all share our experiences! In February, we asked you: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?    The feedback you gave us was amazing, so much so that Naomi recorded and commented on your answers. Have a listen at this bonus episode, below!2018-03-2813 minSEA AND BE SCENE... And HEARD Archives - Stephanie BeaumontSEA AND BE SCENE... And HEARD Archives - Stephanie BeaumontNaomi Snieckus Broadcast Date – March 28, 2018 Well, what a treat it was to connect with today’s very busy guest – award-winning actress, writer, improviser, voice-over artist, director, teacher and without question kindred spirit Naomi Snieckus. I first met this talented lady on the Halifax set of her hit CBC series MR.D. Naomi plays Phys-Ed teacher Bobbi Galka and she’s a riot at it! Naomi and the gang will return to the less-than-hallowed halls of Xavier Academy to film the 8th and final Season of MR.D this summer so we’ll chat with her about that. Plus we talk about...2018-03-2856 minThe Firecracker DepartmentThe Firecracker DepartmentA Note From NaomiFirecrackers, It’s been a big week for the Toronto theatre community. For those of you that don’t know, Albert Schultz, who was the AD at one of the countries largest theatre companies, Soulpepper, was accused of sexual harassment in the theatre. Four amazingly bold, brave women; Diana Bentley, Patricia Fagan, Kristin Booth, and Hannah Miller came forward with their stories. It’s been an intense, heart breaking time and I have searched with what to say about the whole thing.  I decided to leave this note for the Firecracker Department members and not to have...2018-01-1109 minSpooked!Spooked!Ep. 77 Naomi SnieckusThe Spooky Tickets Tonight on Spooked! Cody is overly worried about lines, Damien feels better after slapping Cody, Colin’s dad was taken away by social services, and Naomi has admirers in Mimico. Another scary episode for all you Spookateers out there, so quit your cryin' and get spooked! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/2017-03-2759 minThe Performers PodcastThe Performers PodcastImproviser, actress: Naomi SnieckusNaomi went from dreaming about doing the works of Shakespeare and Shaw to abandoning the theatre classics for The Second City. These days you might recognize Naomi from her role in the hit comedy TV show “Mr.D” where she plays Bobbi the gym teacher. And in the theatre and comedy community she’s well respected as a founding member, and performer, in the National Theatre of the World.2016-11-1138 minAnything Goes w/ Darren Frost & Dave MartinAnything Goes w/ Darren Frost & Dave MartinNaomi SnieckusNaomi Snieckus2013-01-1655 minScott Free - From Kids in the Hall it\'s Scott ThompsonScott Free - From Kids in the Hall it's Scott ThompsonScott Free with guest Naomi SnieckusScott Thompson from Kids in the Hall sits down with comedian and actor Naomi Snieckus.  Perhaps you witnessed her being graphically murdered in Saw 3D?  Or in her regular role as the gym teacher in CBC-TV's Mr. D.  Or performing at Second City in Toronto.  Or with her own troupe, the National Theatre of the World.  Whatever... She 's charming, funny yet claims to have no bad habits.  Yeah right.2012-05-2550 min