Shows
The Staffa CornerFrom Foster Care to Hollywood: How Zay Domo Artist Defied the OddsWhat 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 Duty and Overwatch, creating connections that...2025-05-2821 min
The Staffa CornerFrom Twilight Zone to Cryptic: Jeff Gladstone on Set Dynamics and Career LongevityJeff 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 technology, which has ironically brought production...2025-05-2830 min
The Staffa CornerFinding Voice Through Music: Shelea's Musical JourneyFrom 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 icon with his humor, wisdom, and...2025-05-1648 min
The Staffa CornerSkylar Bible on 'Lilo & Stitch' and Finding Your Path in HollywoodFrom high school theater elective to Disney's newest live-action remake, actor Skylar Bible takes us behind the scenes of his journey to becoming Agent Foster in the highly anticipated "Lilo & Stitch" hitting theaters May 23rd.Skylar 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," Skylar describes how filming in Hawaii created an unexpectedly intimate atmosphere that felt more like an independent film than a...2025-05-1633 min
The Staffa CornerShakespeare with a Soundtrack - Reviewing Juliet and Romeo and A Conversation with Alex GrechSet in 1301, when Italy was still barely an idea, Juliet & Romeo reimagines Shakespeare’s tragic story through a fresh musical lens. The film follows star-crossed lovers Romeo (Jamie Ward) and Juliet (Clara Rugaard), who must keep their love hidden as their families remain locked in a bitter feud. For those familiar with my reviews, you know musicals aren’t my favorite genre—not because of the songs themselves, but because I find it odd when characters suddenly burst into a choreographed number mid-conversation. That’s not my only hesitation. The bigger question is: Do we really need another r...2025-05-0927 min
Hardscape HuddleHardscape Huddle: Commercial Hardscape Trends & Innovations with Techo-Bloc Part 1 of 2Send us a textIn this episode of The Hardscape Huddle, Jeff Tap House and Thomas from Techo-Bloc break down the latest trends in commercial hardscaping.Discover how permeable pavers are gaining traction for their low maintenance and environmental benefits, why products like Cafe Crema and Silver Granite are catching architects' eyes, and how Techo-Bloc is pushing the boundaries of design with new product innovations like the Terrazzo line and the Studio Collection.We also tackle the practical side of commercial projects—what it takes to get from concept to completion, why communication wi...2025-04-2345 min
The Staffa CornerActing, Music, and Authenticity: Jet Jurgensmeyer's JourneyWhat truly shapes a child actor's journey through Hollywood into adulthood? Jet Jurgensmeyer who began performing at just three years old—offers insights into growing up in the entertainment industry while somehow managing to keep both feet firmly on the ground.From his first role at age four to his family's decision to move to California when he was five, Jet shares the behind-the-scenes reality of his childhood in the spotlight. Unlike the cautionary tales we often hear, his story reveals how thoughtful parenting and maintaining strong connections to home created a foundation that allowed him to thr...2025-04-2235 minThe Staffa CornerJonathan Bowen's Journey Through Film, Philosophy, and Finding His Way BackThe journey from passionate film enthusiast to director isn't always a straight path. For Jonathan L. Bowen, that journey involved writing 600 movie reviews as a teenager, studying philosophy in college, and experiencing a decade-long gap between his first and second feature films.Throughout our conversation, Bowen offers fascinating insights into the changing landscape of independent film. He discusses how streaming services have evolved from neutral platforms showcasing diverse content to studios prioritizing their own productions, making it increasingly difficult for true indies to find audiences. Similarly, he notes how major film festivals now favor projects with celebrity...2025-04-1857 min
The Staffa CornerHappy People: How Andy James is Revolutionizing Flamenco JazzAndy James takes us on a captivating journey from Melbourne to Madrid and beyond in this illuminating conversation about fusion, culture, and artistic evolution. A world-acclaimed flamenco dancer who pivoted to jazz artistry, James embodies the beautiful intersection of seemingly disparate musical traditions.James explains how her latest album "Happy People" — recorded across five countries including Spain, Italy and the United States — represents years of creative development and features fourteen original compositions that showcase this unique fusion.James offers fascinating insights into flamenco's varied reception worldwide, noting its stronger following in European countries while remaining some...2025-04-1616 min
The Staffa CornerBeyond the E Street Band: How David Sancious Became Music's Special IngredientDavid Sancious doesn't just play music – he transforms it. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and original E Street Band member sits down for a revealing conversation that spans his remarkable journey from childhood piano lessons to collaborations with the biggest names in music history.From the moment Sancious describes his musical upbringing – classical piano from his mother, jazz from his father, and everything from Eastern music to avant-garde jazz from his brothers – you understand why he's become the secret ingredient in countless legendary recordings. His versatility isn't just technical; it stems from a profound, lifelo...2025-04-1139 min
The Staffa CornerFinding Freedom Beyond the Screen: A Friendly Conversation with Falk Hentschel HenleeAlthough we’ve only met once and spoken a handful of times, I consider actor Falk Hentschel Henlee and his wife, Kim, friends. We first connected at a comic con in Minnesota, where Falk was meeting fans and promoting his role as Hawkman on the CW shows. What began as a brief interview request turned into an entire afternoon spent with Falk and Kim. They are truly some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, and I’ll jump at any opportunity to reconnect with them or highlight their amazing work. One of the main reasons I start...2025-04-0749 minHardscape HuddleThe Hardscape Huddle: Digital Marketing Decoded: Transforming Landscape Businesses with AI and StrategySend us a textKicking off season 2 of the Hardscape Huddle, featuring Tyler Hoyt from Fast Break Digital Media - a game-changing conversation for contractors!Highlights:Why landscape/hardscape businesses need digital strategyAI-powered lead generationHow to transform your marketing without breaking the bankLearn how to:✅ Attract more clients✅ Spend less time on marketing✅ Grow your business smarterListen now and level up your business game! 🚀#HardscapeHuddle #ContractorMarketing #BusinessGrowth #DigitalStrategyTune in wherever you get your podcasts! 🎧https://www.youtube.com/@hardscapehuddlewww.staffastone.com2025-04-021h 04
HABLEMOS DE ESCOCIA EN CASTELLANO PODCASTS. Podcast y Turismo EscocésLA CUEVA DE FINGAL: MÚSICA Y MISTERIO EN LA ISLA DE STAFFAHoy cerramos la temporada 7 con el episodio 159, en él los llevaré a un lugar que parece sacado de un sueño, una maravilla natural que ha inspirado a poetas, compositores, artistas y aventureros durante siglos.Nos adentramos en la mística cueva de Fingal, un fenómeno geológico que se encuentra en la isla de Staffa, en las Hébridas Interiores de Escocia. Este lugar no solo es una joya de la naturaleza, sino también un espacio lleno de leyendas, melodías ocultas y una atmósfera que es difícil de describir con palabras.Prepár...2025-03-3009 minThe Staffa CornerAuthentic Sound in a Digital World: Mark DiPietro's Musical PhilosophyWhat does authentic musicianship look like in today's digital world? Mark DiPietro answers this question through five decades of dedication to his craft, sharing his remarkable journey from pretending a tennis racket was his guitar at age five to releasing two albums filled with real instruments and genuine expression.His debut album "DiPietro Leaving a Mark" and sophomore release "The 13th Wave" showcase his talent, featuring real string sections, layered vocals, and guitar work that speaks rather than simply impresses.Intentionally avoiding being pigeonholed, his music spans different genres and emotions, creating albums that offer...2025-03-2730 min
Corporate UnderpantsS1E4 Part 1 AUDIO Navigating the Complexities of Digital Projects in Non-Tech Orgs with Adam StaffaThis is a great 2-parter, people. The first part is all about how uniquely challenging Higher Ed and other non-tech-first orgs for website strategist and product people. Adam shares his experiences working in higher education and other sectors, where unique and complex Governance structures, diverse stakeholder groups, and entrenched institutional politics create substantial obstacles. You'll hear about how the first big project he did was chaos due to misalignment. In part 2, you'll hear about the magic of stakeholder Alignment, alignment Personas, and clear goals! Hint: the second project came in early and under budget.
Have YOU ever gotten...2025-02-2840 min
Corporate UnderpantsS1E4 Part 1 VIDEO Navigating the Complexities of Digital Projects in Non-Tech Orgs with Adam StaffaThis is a great 2-parter, people. The first part is all about how uniquely challenging Higher Ed and other non-tech-first orgs for website strategist and product people. Adam shares his experiences working in higher education and other sectors, where unique and complex Governance structures, diverse stakeholder groups, and entrenched institutional politics create substantial obstacles. You'll hear about how the first big project he did was chaos due to misalignment. In part 2, you'll hear about the magic of stakeholder Alignment, alignment Personas, and clear goals! Hint: the second project came in early and under budget.
Have YOU ever gotten...2025-02-2840 min
The Staffa CornerReviving Rock: Lorraine Lewis on Femme Fatale, New Music, and Life in the SpotlightPrepare yourself for an energetic journey with the one and only Lorraine Lewis, a trailblazer in the rock music scene since the 80s. Lorraine opens up about her dream to follow in the footsteps of her idol, David Lee Roth. Despite facing the intense challenges of a male-dominated industry, Lorraine’s story is one of resilience and integrity as she carved out a successful path without losing sight of her values. From signing a record deal to producing unforgettable music videos, Lorraine candidly shares the reality behind the rock and roll lifestyle, emphasizing the essential role...2025-02-1728 min
The Staffa CornerEmbracing Heritage and Dreams: Amielynn Abellera's Journey in ActingWhat happens when you choose passion over a traditional career path? Amielynn Abellera, our guest, shares her remarkable journey from Stockton, California, all the way to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. As a Filipino-American stage, screen, and voice actress, Amielynn’s story is one of self-discovery and embracing cultural heritage. From her early days on the sets of shows like NCIS to her transition from theater to television, Amielynn opens up about her internal battle between a promising path in medicine and her undeniable love for the arts.As she gears up...2025-01-1342 minThe Staffa CornerNostalgia and Inspiration: A Journey with Rebecca Holden from Knight Rider to PhilanthropyRenowned actress and singer Rebecca Holden takes us on a nostalgic journey through her vibrant career, sharing stories from her time on the iconic show Knight Rider. Her insights into the creative process, script adaptations, and the technical intricacies of working with the legendary Kit car offer a captivating glimpse into the world of 80s television. Rebecca’s reflections highlight the enduring appeal of Knight Rider, with its heartfelt storytelling and moral triumphs, underscoring the series' lasting impact on viewers and its empowering message of good overcoming evil.Rebecca also opens up about her current phi...2024-12-2633 minThe Staffa CornerLorie Line's Musical Journey: Touring with Black Beauty and Preparing for the Holiday SeasonPianist Lorie Line, who has sold over 6 million albums and continues to tour, performing around 50 concerts per year, joins us on this special shortened holiday episode of The Staffa Podcast. Listen in as Lorie calls in from her tour bus, sharing insights into her musical journey.From her beginnings in Reno, Nevada, to her rise in Minneapolis, Lorie's story is a testament to her passion for music and her talent for creating intimate connections with audiences.Lorie is currently wrapping up her holiday tour in places like Brainerd, MN, Grand Forks, ND, Bismarck, ND, Sioux...2024-12-1713 min
Busy GallivantingMagic in the Air: A Scottish Summer in the Highlands (Isles of Mull, Iona, and Staffa) [VIDEO]Travel with us as we venture to Scotland in the Summer. The sun is out late, the temperature is warm (for Scotland), and the grass is so so green.
In this return to Scotland, I venture with Keely, my friend who is also a post-grad candidate for Public History and Cultural Heritage.
We book another tour with Rabbie's to venture into the West Highlands, with our base of operations in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
From driving through Glencoe, swimming in Caribbean-blue waters on the Isle of Iona, and watching puffins fly...2024-12-101h 04The Staffa CornerFrom Courtrooms to Casting Calls: Stacie Greenwell's Inspiring Journey to HollywoodImagine realizing your true calling in the midst of a completely different career path. In this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast we chat with the incredible Stacie Greenwell, a former lawyer turned Hollywood actress, who shares her compelling journey of leaving the legal world to pursue her passion for acting. As we explore Stacie's transition, she emphasizes the invaluable support she received from her family and friends. She speaks fondly of her mentor, the late director Jean-Marc Vallée, and the excitement of working on hit shows like Modern Family. Stacie also expresses her enthusiasm for he...2024-12-0346 minHardscape HuddleThe Hardscape Huddle: Celebrating Season One and Looking AheadSend us a textIn this 15th episode of The Hardscape Huddle, the team celebrates the success of Season One, reaching over 1,000 followers across platforms in both Canada and Mexico! They take a moment to reflect on the standout moments from the first 14 episodes, revisiting key topics like advertising, digital marketing, porcelain tiles, retaining walls, outdoor lighting, and the vital role of insurance and financial management for contractors.With a focus on the valuable lessons shared throughout the season, the team discusses how these insights have shaped better business practices and boosted customer satisfaction.2024-12-011h 02The Staffa CornerRachel Stubington: From Stage to Screen and the Rise of 'Summer' in Apple TV+ Show ShrinkingRachel Stubington, the rising star known for her role as Summer in the Apple series "Shrinking," talks about her journey from the theater stage to the television screen. We explore how her character blossomed into a central storyline under the guidance of creator Bill Lawrence.Playing the witty and confident character of Summer offers Rachel a fulfilling and exciting experience, especially as Hollywood moves towards crafting more nuanced roles for young women. She recounts memorable moments like filming the viral "Cheater Bitch" TikTok video and working with industry legends like Harrison Ford.Her contribution to...2024-11-2337 minHardscape HuddleThe Importance of Advocacy: Small Business Legislation with Bre Matson & Eileen KeanSend us a textIn this insightful episode of the Hardscape Huddle, host Kyle sits down with Bre Matson and Eileen Kean from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) to dive into the pressing issues that effect small business owners.Bre and Eileen, both seasoned experts in the field of small business advocacy, break down the legislative landscape and explain the key bills and policies on the horizon that could significantly impact entrepreneurs, small businesses, and independent contractors, highlighting the challenges small business owners are grappling with in an ever-evolving political environment....2024-11-151h 12The Staffa CornerExploring LGBTQ Representation and Authenticity in Acting with Devin KawaokaActor Devin Kawaoka joins us for a conversation about his roles on Apple Plus's "Shrinking" and NBC's "Chicago Med." He reveals how a character initially meant to be minor evolved into a significant presence, thanks in part to his dynamic on-screen connection with co-star Michael Urie.This episode also explores the broader capabilities of actors to step into roles that transcend their personal experiences, touching on the rich history of groundbreaking performances that have paved the way for more inclusive storytelling.His personal story intertwines with a professional journey, including memorable moments working alongside the...2024-11-0148 min