The Compass

Episode 186: Leah Walsh

Fri, 06 May 2022 05:00:00 -0000

This is the final episode of The Compass Podcast! Creator, host, and actor Leah Walsh is interviewed by artist Kim Miller. Leah shares about her experiences with the dark side, the seven year evolution of The Compass, what she's looking forward to about making room for new creative projects. The extensive archives of episodes will continue to be available on The Broadway Podcast Network, on iTunes or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Please follow and review and share with your friends!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 185: Susie Garcia

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Vocalist, violinist, mariachi, entrepreneur, and educator Susie Garcia shares her experiences with the dark side, leading the all female, Los Angeles based mariachi ensemble Las Colibri, growing as a leader, parenting as an artist, and balancing high expectations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 184: Catherine Mueller

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Interdisciplinary Artist, Actor/Creator, and Educator Catherine Mueller shares her experiences with the dark side, her love of clown, her journey founding The MAMAs / Mother Artists Making Art and The PAMAS / Pregnant Artists Making Art (www.motherartistsmakingart.com) in 2020 to foreground the value and visibility of Mother+Artists. She also established The Institute for Collaboration and Play (www.ifcap.org) in 2014 as an action-think tank for performers and humans interested in play-based creative practice. Thank you, Catherine!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 183: Jessica Blank

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:00:00 -0000

Multi-hyphenate artist Jessica Blank shares her experiences building a creative life, embracing creative problem solving, restaging the documentary theatre piece Coal Country after having to close at the beginning of the pandemic, parenting as an artist, and collaboration. Get tickets for Coal Country, running till April 17, 2022 at the Cherry Lane Theater at www.coalcountrymusical.com and check out Jessica's work at www.jessicacblank.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 182: Nikki Massoud

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Actor and writer Nikki Massoud shares her experiences with the dark side, how community is changing in the pandemic, time, and delving into playwriting,

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 181; Julia Ogilvie

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Actor, teacher, and comedian Julia Ogilvie shares her experiences with the dark side, winding up in her home state of Hawaii during the pandemic and the artistic community there, and finding ways to give yourself the green light as an artist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 180: Daniel Morgan Shelley

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Actor Daniel Morgan Shelley shares his experiences with the dark side, building structure in your life, auditioning, and going through the pandemic as an introvert. Check out what Daniel is up to: www.danielmorganshelley.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 179: Geoffrey Allen Murphy

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Actor Geoffrey Allen Murphy shares his experiences with the dark side, auditioning, finding balance, and understudying on Broadway during the pandemic (in To Kill a Mockingbird). Check out what he's up to at http://www.geoffreyallenmurphy.com/

The Compass Podcast is back after a hiatus, looking forward to sharing 8 bi-weekly episodes in the new season!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: The Compass Update

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Update from host Leah Walsh gives an update on her plans for the podcast, moving to a season format with new episodes being published starting in January, 2022. The pandemic has been hard on all of us, take care of yourself. Talk to you soon, in the mean time take a listen to all the wonderful artists whose stories are chronicled in The Compass archives.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 178: Amy Berryman

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Playwright and actor Amy Berryman shares her experiences with the dark side, pivoting to focus on playwriting, building a community and a process, her play being produced in London during the pandemic, day jobs, and trust. http://www.amy-berryman.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 177: Natalie Suzanne

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Natalie Suzanne is a teacher, craftsperson, naturalist, and musician. She shares her experiences with the dark side, building a creative life in a variety of communities and environments, recording her first album as a singer songwriter, and balancing art and commerce. Check out her recent venture Folkways School at www.folkwaysschool.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 176: Michelle Ross

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Violinist and composer Michelle Ross shares her experiences with the dark side, finding a love of improvisation, expanding your definition of yourself as an artist, and performing Bach all over New York City. www.michellerossviolin.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 175: Damian Jermaine Thompson

Fri, 21 May 2021 05:30:00 -0000

Actor and creator Damian Jermaine Thompson shares his experiences with the dark side, community, virtual teaching, overcoming adversity, joining the Actors Equity Association Council in hopes of fighting for our community of artists, Check out his short film BLACK? on youtube now!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 97: Priscila García-Jacquier (Re-release)

Fri, 07 May 2021 14:45:59 -0000

Writer, producer, and director Priscila García-Jacquier shares her experiences with the dark side, finding her voice as a writer, using her own immigration story to speak out for others, finding your power in the industry, and embracing extreme honesty. Check out her blog here: https://priscilaelenagj.com and her production company here: http://roundroomimage.org (Originally released on November 3, 2017)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 174: Brittany Vicars

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Actor, writer and teacher Brittany Vicars shares her experiences over the past year with her diagnosis with a rare form of cancer, treatment, and processing and sharing this experience through her writing. We also discuss isolation and community, filmmaking, and artistic drive. Check out her work at https://www.brittvicars.art/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 173: Sarah Kenny

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Sarah Kenny is a long time theater educator with a focus towards accessibility/disability inclusion, and is currently working on her Masters in Disability Studies at CUNY School of Professional Studies. She shares her experiences with the dark side, how her own disability has clarified her view on where she wants her work to focus, being an artist parent, the power of the arts in kids' lives, and growing inclusion in the arts.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 172: Erin Cronican

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Actor, director and Executive Artistic Director of The Seeing Place Theater shares her experiences with the dark side, continuing to run a theater company and produce work virtually during the pandemic, day jobs, the importance of sharing knowledge and skills with other artists, and finding healing and comfort in creating while living with cancer. Check out what she's working on at: http://www.erincronican.com/ https://www.seeingplacetheater.com/index.html

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 99: Chalia La Tour

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 22:14:36 -0000

(Re-release, originally published 11/16/17) Actor Chalia La Tour shares her experiences with the dark side, her activist work for equity within the arts/entertainment industry and education, transitioning to New York City after grad school, and making change in a community with your work. Check out what she's up to here: www.chalialatour.com This is Episode 99 of The Compass

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 12: Jude Sandy

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 19:44:00 -0000

Actor and dancer Jude Sandy shares his perspective on taking care of yourself in a business that tries to define you, going where the work you want to do is possible, how his art is shaped by his experiences growing up in Trinidad and Tobago as a young gay man, and where he goes in New York City to escape the dark side. Originally released 11/13/2015

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 171: Lily Houghton

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Playwright Lily Houghton shares her experiences with the dark side, building a creative life, establishing herself as a professional playwright on her own terms after growing up in the NYC Off-Broadway community, writing and pitching for television, believing in your voice, and grieving the death of her father.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 170: Jeffrey Omura

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Actor, activist and labor organizer Jeffrey Omura shares his experiences building a creative life, his current campaign for New York City Council (District 6, Upper West Side), the importance of art advocacy such as Be an #ArtsHero, auditioning, and building community.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 169: Vivienne Benesch

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Director, actor, and teacher Vivienne Benesch is the Producing Artistic Director of Playmakers Repertory Company in Chapel Hill, NC. She shares her experiences with the dark side, collaboration, the countless contingency plans of running a theater through a time of crises, embracing being a multi-hyphenate, and her upcoming Broadway directing debut, which is currently paused due to the pandemic.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 168: Chris Myers

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 17:29:00 -0000

Actor Chris Myers shares his experiences with the dark side, growing up as an artist in NYC, collaboration, developing the study group series "Anti-Capitalism for Artists" (current title) which gives artists a place to engage with a radical class education, and moving to Los Angeles. Chris also works as a writer, director, producer, and teaching artist, see what he's up to at http://www.chrismyersinc.com Happy New Year, good-bye 2020!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 167: Emily Ritger

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Theatrical maker and teacher Emily Ritger shares her experiences with the dark side, creating community, deciding to go to grad school and invest in herself as an artist, and starting the artist cooperative The Midwives that fosters artists and their work through interlocking circles of support. She is based in Chicago and you can check out her work at www.emilyritger.com and www.themidwives.org.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Fearlessness in Difficult Times Edition

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 18:31:39 -0000

Host Leah Walsh reads from The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times by Pema Chodron

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 166: Christina Rouner

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Actor Christina Rouner shares her experiences with the dark side, resisting the comparison game, becoming a parent, auditioning, starting her own business, and gratitude.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 165: Nija Okoro

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Actor Nija Okoro shares her experiences with the dark side, the power of rituals in daily life, establishing herself in Los Angeles after growing up in NYC, falling in love with independent film, and lessons learned from her recent national tour of August Wilson's Jitney,

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 164: Carolyn Michelle Smith

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Actor and coach Carolyn Michelle Smith shares her experiences with the dark side, making the move from NYC to LA, constantly learning and pivoting, community, and the embracing the self-tape audition.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode - Humility Not Modesty Edition

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Host Leah Walsh reads an excerpt from Untamed by Glennon Doyle, check back soon for a new full episode!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 163: Han Tang

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 05:30:00 -0000

Writer and actor Han Tang shares her experiences with the dark side, diving in to playwriting and screenwriting when she encountered the lack of opportunities for asian actors after graduating from Juilliard, teaching artist work, storytelling in China and Los Angeles, community, and self-producing.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 162: Claire Karpen

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Actor and director Claire Karpen shares her experiences with the dark side, getting through this time of isolation, becoming a part of The Actors' Equity Association council and what she's learned behind the scenes, hope for the future of theatre, and the importance just continuing to make art in this time.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 161: Sena Rich

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Casting Producer Sena Rich works in reality tv in Los Angeles. She shares her experiences with the dark side, deciding to pivot away from being an actor, finding her place working in casting, equity and diversity in tv/film, and the importance of empathy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 160: Carmen Zilles

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Actor Carmen Zilles shares her experiences with the dark side, auditioning, community and accountability, day jobs, writing, and moving through this time of Covid as an artist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 159: Delavega

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Film, TV, Commercial and Digital Content Director and Producer Delavaga shares his experiences with the dark side, directing a feature film, how parenthood has changed him as an artist, establishing himself in a new city, and meditation. Watch his feature film BookendS now streaming on Amazon Prime, and check out his other work at http://delavega.squarespot.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Lives Matter

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Black artists and activists, if it would be useful to you to use The Compass Podcast to amplify your voice now or in the future, please contact host Leah Walsh at leahwalsh@gmail.com. This can be outside of the format of the podcast or within it, if you feel the need to read something you've written, document, rant, by yourself or in conversation and this small platform would be helpful, please reach out. I will be focusing on having more black guests on the podcast, but this is an immediate way to amplify that I can give if it is of help.
If you need something to listen to this week, to take a break from the news or whatever actions you are taking, please go back to past episodes with black artists and leaders, Some that are at the top of my mind today are:
Jazz musician Samora Pinderhughs episode 49 (also, if you listen to the end of the 100th episode he performs an incredibly haunting song about Sandra Bland. Please check out his work)
Actor Chalia LaTour, Episode 99.
Dancer and MOVENYC founder Nigel Campbell, Episode 47
Actress Liz Jenkins, Episode 44
"Donald Trump has emboldened extremist white voices" by Lynn Nottage, published on www.standard.co.uk on June 1, 2020.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 158: Charlie Barnett

Fri, 22 May 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Actor Charlie Barnett shares his experiences with the dark side, pushing yourself in auditions, hope for the film and tv industry once things start shooting again, and inhabiting such a dark role in Russian Doll on Netflix,

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 157: Murray Bartlett

Fri, 08 May 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Actor Murray Bartlett shares his experiences with the dark side, making choices that prioritize your life and not just your career, moving from Australia to New York City as an artist, meditation, and what he took away from working on the HBO show Looking.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 156: Sally Cade Holmes

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Producer Sally Cade Holmes (Hadestown, The Inheritance) shares her experiences with the dark side, the importance of mentoring, deciding to strike out on her own as a producer and consultant, staying nimble with your definition of success, and a look at how producers do what they do.

http://www.sallycadeholmes.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 155: Parenting as Artists with Kathleen McNenny, Boyd Gaines, and Frankie J. Alvarez

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Host Leah Walsh and her husband, actor Frankie J. Alvarez, are joined by actors Kathleen McNenny and Boyd Gaines to discuss the ups and downs of parenting in the arts, the necessity of community, keeping things in perspective, making decisions to fuel your creativity as well as support your family, and the importance of patience.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 154: Lisa Kitchens

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Actor, teacher, and creator Lisa Kitchens shares her experiences with the dark side, starting Earth Stories Initiative which connects young children living in cities to the natural world through storytelling, the importance of community, and applying for residencies and grants as a performing artist. http://www.lisakitchens.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 153: Inés del Castillo

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Actor and writer Inés del Castillo shares her experiences with the dark side, supporting herself as an artist, navigating casting as a bilingual artist, and staying positive. Check out her work at: https://www.inesdelcastillo.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 152: Brandon Cournay

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Dancer Brandon Cournay shares his experiences with the dark side and building a creative life in the New York dance world, from freelancing to becoming a company member, starting a business, and finding community. Check out what he's up to at http://www.brandoncournay.com and https://www.dancedevicelab.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 151: Giselle O. Alvarez

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Dancer and performer Giselle O. Alvarez shares her experiences with the dark side, taking care of yourself and staying inspired during a long running show (she just hit her five year anniversary in Phantom of the Opera on Broadway), how being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis has affected her life as an artist, finding freedom in different styles of dance, and pushing yourself to always keep learning.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 150: Manik Choksi LIVE from BroadwayCon

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Actor, musician, and composer Manik Choksi shares his thoughts on the dark side, making your own work, growing in long-term collaborations, and how becoming a parent influences him as an artist. He also shares a song from his new song cycle based on the story of The Ramayan! This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at BroadwayCon, 2020. Follow Manik on Twitter @nickchoksi

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Live the Question Edition

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Update on The Compass Live from BroadwayCon, Episode 150 with Manik Choksi coming up on January 25, 2020, as well as a few readings from Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke.

“So don't be frightened, dear friend, if a sadness confronts you larger than any you have ever known, casting its shadow over all you do. You must think that something is happening within you, and remember that life has not forgotten you; it holds you in its hand and will not let you fall. Why would you want to exclude from your life any uneasiness, any pain, any depression, since you don't know what work they are accomplishing within you?”

― Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet

“I beg you, to have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer.”

― Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: New Year Edition

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Thoughts on the New Year by host Leah Walsh and a reading of a poem and reflections by author Neil Gaiman. http://journal.neilgaiman.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 149: Rachel Spencer Hewitt

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Actor and founder of the Parent Artist Advocacy League Rachel Spencer Hewitt shares her experiences with the dark side, auditioning, becoming a parent as an artist and how that led her to form PAAL and advocate for the support of parents and caregivers in the arts, and the power of community.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 148: Seamus Mulcahy

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Actor Seamus Mulcahy shares his experiences with the dark side, auditioning, developing your process as an actor, the importance of community, how dyslexia has influenced his path as an artist and how he approaches the challenges of learning differently. Check out what he's up to at http://seamusmulcahy.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 147: Christopher Ryan Grant

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 07:30:00 -0000

Actor Christopher Ryan Grant shares his experiences with the dark side, finding community, how his work with The Public Theater's Mobile Unit has changed how he tells stories, auditioning, and learning to put things in perspective.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 146: Christopher Livingston

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 06:30:00 -0000

Actor Christopher Livingston shares his experiences with the dark side, trying not to take the work home at the end of the day, mentors, auditioning, and staying positive. You can see him in his first Broadway show, The Great Societyat Lincoln Center or as Wayne Williams on the second season of Mindhunter.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 145: Sharone Halevy

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Painter, director, and teacher Sharone Halevy shares her experiences with the dark side, her evolution as an artist from performer to painter, process and empathy, being kind to yourself, and building a business plan as a painter. Check out her paintings on Instagram @art_by_sharone or www.sharonehalevy.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 144: Rachel Nicks

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and fitness professional Rachel Nicks shares her experiences with the dark side, auditioning, staying positive, asking for what you need as an artist and parent, her work as a fitness instructor focused on women's health and wellness, and living an unapologetically full life. Check out her work in all areas at https://rachelnicks.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 143: Kris Sidberry

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 11:00:00 -0000

Actor Kris Sidberry shares her experiences with the dark side, continuing to learn and train, reevaluating, trying to not focus solely on career, and the community she's found at Burning Man (which she just got back from right before this interview!). Check out her work at www.krissidberry.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 142: Catie Cuan

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Dancer, choreographer, and technologist Catie Cuan shares her experiences with the dark side, fusing her duel interests in dance and technology, how geography influences art, balance, and being in a relationship with another artist. Catie is currently pursuing her PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University in California, so this conversation was recorded over FaceTime. Check out her work at www.catiecuan.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: In Times of Chaos Edition

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Host Leah Walsh reflections on Toni Morrison's thoughts on an artist's task in times of chaos from "No Place for Self-Pity, No Room for Fear,” an essay included in the 150th anniversary issue of The Nation, read from the article "No Place for Self-Pity, No Room for Fear: Toni Morrison on the Artist's Task in Troubled Times" by Maria Popova, published on brainpickings.org. Check the brand new look at www.thecompasspodcast.com, you can search the back catalogue of episodes by key word!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 141: Meg Fee

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Writer Meg Fee shares her experiences with the dark side, publishing and self-publishing her writing, the evolution of the online blogging space, finding her current path in human centered design, and processing the world through writing. Check out her book, Places I Stopped on the Way Home, and her other writing at www.megfee.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 140: Dillon Heape

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Actor and singer Dillon Heape shares their experiences with the dark side, expanding creativity in many directions, self discovery, keeping busy, Pride, new projects, sobriety and mental health. www.dillonheape.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 139: Erin Cherry

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and teacher Erin Cherry shares her experiences with the dark side, auditioning, self-care, the evolution of dreams and goals, the importance of community, and her recent Emmy win. See what she's up to at www.erincherry.com and see her show After Forever on Amazon.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 138: Jordan Geiger

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Photographer Jordan Geiger shares his experiences with the dark side, transitioning from acting to photography, his upcoming move from NYC to LA, running a business as a freelancer, community, and being in a relationship with another artist. Check out his beautiful work at www.jjgeigerphoto.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 137: Nick Mills

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and teacher Nick Mills shares his experiences with the dark side, becoming a parent, gratitude, mentors, and how his approach to auditioning has changed. www.nickmosesmills.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 136: Lizzie King-Hall

Fri, 31 May 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and dialect coach Lizzie King-Hall shares her experiences with the dark side, political action, navigating the role of dialect coach in a production and building her business, and learning from the artists around you. http://www.lizziekinghall.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 135: Ryan Spahn

Fri, 03 May 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Actor, writer, and producer Ryan Spahn shares his experiences with the dark side, going to Juilliard in his late twenties, having patience, getting his screenplays made, and collaboration. Check out a reading of his new play Nora Highland on Monday June 24th, 2019 as part of The Pride Plays at Rattlestick Theater and watch Ep 1. of his web series What's Your Emergency

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 134: Tim Dieterichs

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Artist Tim Dieterichs shares his experiences with the dark side, addiction and recovery, what he values about acting and design, the importance of community, and finding freedom in structure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 133: Marla Phelan

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Dancer and choreographer Marla Phelan shares her experiences with the dark side, the complexities of being a freelancing, working in different genres of dance and theater, moving towards her choreographic voice, and knowing your worth. www.marlaphelan.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 132: Kristin McCarthy Parker

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Director Kristin McCarthy Parker shares her experiences with the dark side, devising work, day jobs, the strength of working with an established community, and directing a long run of a show. Check out her projects at www.kristinmccarthyparker.com, www.puffstheplay.com, www.recentcutbacks.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 131: Charlotte Bydwell (audio corrected)

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 22:08:00 -0000

Actor, dancer, and creator Charlotte Bydwell shares her experiences with the dark side, building her creative life, producing her own multidisciplinary work, decision making, artist visas, having patience, and doing things that terrify you. Check out what she’s up to at www.charlottebydwell.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode - Manifesto Edition

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 15:46:41 -0000

A mini episode with host Leah Walsh today featuring an excerpt from "An Incomplete Manifesto For Growth" by Bruce Mau, a part of the Manifesto Project. Check back in two weeks for a new guest and interview! http://www.manifestoproject.it/bruce-mau/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 130: Rachel Bonds

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Playwright Rachel Bonds shares her experiences with the dark side, the development process for new plays, collaboration, and how the theater community can support artist parents and their work. Read her wonderful essay Working Like A Mother on howlround.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 129: Finn Wittrock

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Actor Finn Wittrock shares his experiences with the dark side, auditioning, the ups and downs of film production and funding, finding an outlet in writing, and advice from his artistic mentors.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 128: Jasminn Johnson

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 12:50:00 -0000

Actor, writer, and teacher Jasminn Johnson shares her experiences with the dark side, building a healthy creative life, discovering her passion for teaching, collaboration, sharing through her writing, and moving from waiting to creating in the new year. Check out what she's up to and read her writing, particularly her blog post Doing: The New Waiting, which we discuss on this episode at http://www.jasminnjohnson.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 127: Pepper Binkley

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 10:30:00 -0000

Actor and writer Pepper Binkley shares her experiences with the dark side, always having something to look forward to, collaboration, how becoming a parent has changed her work and creative life, and the major undertaking of creating the web series "It's Freezing Out There" as actor, writer, co-director, and co-producer. All twelve short episodes are available to stream on the website, www.itsfreezingoutthere.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 126: Sofia Jean Gomez

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 10:30:00 -0000

Actor Sofia Jean Gomez shares her experiences with the dark side, working in regional theater, making the most of your work in auditions, creating your own space when the industry isn't giving you opportunities, day jobs, and moving to a new theater community. Sofia is currently appearing as Nora in A Doll's House Part 2 at San Diego Rep through December 16, 2018. Host Leah Walsh is back from maternity leave and shares an update in the introduction. https://sofiajeangomez.weebly.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode: Sober Mamas

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 16:00:00 -0000

In this bonus episode The Compass Podcast host Leah and Sober in Vegas blogger Kim talk about becoming moms while sober. The resources they wish they had had during this life transition, tools they found helpful during pregnancy, anxieties and fears, talking to kids about alcohol, and how they are approaching parenthood as sober women in the arts. A casual conversation between close friends. Check out @soberinvegas on Instagram!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 125: Raymond J. Lee

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and singer Raymond J. Lee shares his experiences moving between genres, developing new musicals, using social media to your advantage, speaking up for yourself and fellow performers, and becoming a parent as an artist, See what he's up to at: www.raymondjlee.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 124: Laura Ramadei

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor, producer, and co-founder of theater company Lesser America shares her experiences with the dark side, fully embracing her passion for producing, supporting new plays, day jobs and sexual harassment, and building a theater company. Check out Lesser America's upcoming production of Agnes by Catya McMullen at 59E59 Theaters, September 8-29, 2018. www.lauraramadei.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: What Kind of Times Are These Edition

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Host Leah Walsh reads the article "Adrienne Rich Reads "What Kind of Times Are These" by Maria Popova, as well as the poem named in the title (link below). Check back next week for a new interview! https://www.brainpickings.org/2017/01/01/adrienne-rich-reads-what-kind-of-times-are-these/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 123: Alexis Forte

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Costume Designer Alexis Forte shares her experiences with the dark side, the economics of working in theater or film, trying to find balance, being in a relationship with another artist, the value of diplomacy, saving money, and not comparing yourself with others.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 122: Esmé Boyce

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Choreographer, dancer, and director Esmé Boyce shares her experiences with the dark side, making the personal political, collaborating creatively with her family, producing her own work, deciding to go to grad school, and deepening the conversation created by modern dance. You can find out more about her work and see video of her most recent pieces at www.esmeboycedance.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: 1 Year Edition

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 18:04:56 -0000

Host Leah Walsh shares about her one year sobriety anniversary and some of the resources she's found helpful along the way. Enjoy!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 121: Chelsea Ainsworth

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Chelsea Ainsworth is a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and one of the founders of Arts On Site: a multidiscipline arts organization in NYC that supports artists through performance based programs and community building events. Chelsea shares her experiences with the dark side, working in modern dance, starting a non-profit, building an artist retreat upstate, community, sticking to a mission statement, and slowing down. www.artsonsite.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Dialogue Edition

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In this mini episode host Leah Walsh shares an excerpt from a Ted Talk by Oskar Eustis, "Why Theater is Essential to Democracy". Check back next week for a full new episode of The Compass Podcast! https://www.ted.com/talks/oskar_eustis_why_theater_is_essential_to_democracy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 120: Matthew-Lee Erlbach

Fri, 01 Jun 2018 11:30:00 -0000

Writer and performer Matthew-Lee Erlbach shares his experiences with the dark side, moving from NYC to LA, finding his way as a playwright, being in a relationship with another artist, writing for TV, and taking political action with your art. Check out his play "The Doppelganger" at Steppenwolf Theatre Company through June 2nd or see what he's up to here: http://matthew-lee.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 119: Brooke Berman

Fri, 25 May 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Playwright, screenwriter, memoirist, and filmmaker Brooke Berman shares her experiences with the dark side, learning through doing when tackling new challenges, dealing with the business side of the entertainment industry, and becoming a parent as an artist. www.brookeberman.net

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Choices Edition

Fri, 18 May 2018 09:30:00 -0000

In today's mini episode, host Leah Walsh shares an article on grief by Laverne McKinnon and a poem by dancer/choreographer Bobbi Jene Smith. Check back next week for a new episode and guest! https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/how-cope-grief-a-canceled-show-guest-column-1109305 https://www.dancemagazine.com/gaga-movement-bobbi-jene-smith-poem-2558713809.html

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 118: Romana Soutus

Fri, 11 May 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Playwright and performer Romana Soutus shares her experiences with the dark side, how she started writing her own work, her relationship with La Mama and her latest play Martyrs, and queer representation in the NYC theatre scene. www.romanasoutus.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 117: Brandon Gill

Fri, 04 May 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor Brandon Gill shares his experiences with the dark side, teaching, how his approach to auditioning has changed, growing up and getting his training in NYC (he's a graduate of LaGuardia High School and The Juilliard School, right across the street from each other), owning your strengths, and developing an honest relationship with representation.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 116: Anna O'Donoghue

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor Anna O'Donoghue shares her experiences with the dark side, her extensive work with new play development, growing up in NYC, day jobs, and how her approach to auditioning has changed over time.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Movement Edition

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 09:30:00 -0000

In today's mini episode, host Leah Walsh shares a quote from Martha Graham. Check back next week for a new episode and guest! https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/47790.Martha_Graham

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 115: Marcus Crawford Guy

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor Marcus Crawford Guy shares his experiences with the dark side, what he's learned from his teaching work with Artists Striving To End Poverty, auditioning, collaborating with artists of different disciplines, and navigating the visa system as a working actor from another country. Check out what he's up to at: www.marcuscrawfordguy.com, and learn more about ASTEP here: https://astep.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 114: Nick Westrate

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor Nick Westrate shares his experiences with the dark side, his involvement with Fair Wage Onstage and Actors Equity to fight for a living wage for Off-Broadway performers, his artistic mentors, celebrating other artists, and the conversation series he hosted in New York Theatre Workshop interviewing veterans of non-traditional and experimental theater. Check out those interviews at: http://processinperformance.blogspot.com Get involved with Fair Wage Onstage: http://fairwageonstage.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Specificity Edition

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 09:30:00 -0000

In today's mini episode, host Leah Walsh shares an article by writer George Saunders, entitled "George Saunders: what writers really do when they write", originally published in The Guardian on March 4, 2017. Check back next week for a new episode and guest! George Saunders: what writers really do when they write

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 113: Samantha Walsh

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 09:30:00 -0000

Actor and painter Samantha Walsh (no relation to host Leah Walsh) shares her experiences with the dark side, the evolution of what's important in a day job, not censoring yourself, and finding balance. Check out her upcoming projects, paintings, and the documentary photo project Womanish at her website www.samanthafwalsh.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 112: Michael Thurber

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 09:00:00 -0000

Musician and composer Michael Thurber shares his experiences with the dark side, resilience, family, working in different mediums, and learning from studying your inspirations. Featuring one of his songs at the end of the episode! See him next in his variety show Thurber Theater at Joe's Pub on April 26th, 2018 at 9:30pm. More info at www.michaelthurber.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 111: Georgia Saxelby

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Installation artist Georgia Saxelby's work explores the relationship between art, architecture, ritual, and cultural identity. She shares her experiences with the dark side, how her focus has evolved as an artist, travel as inspiration, risk taking, appreciating everyone who contributes to the arts ecosystem, and exploring ritual in her work and in her process. Participate in her latest project, To Future Women, details at www.tofuturewomen.com, open through July 2018. www.georgiasaxelby.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 110: Joshua Marsh

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 10:30:00 -0000

Costume designer Joshua Marsh shares his experiences with the dark side, using travel as an outlet and inspiration, his creative process in television, building work relationships that last, and finding balance. Follow him on Twitter @joshuajmarsh, and check out his work on Seven Seconds on Netflix!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 109: Maechi Aharanwa

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 10:30:00 -0000

Actor, teacher, writer, and producer Maechi Aharanwa shares her experiences with the dark side, stopping the comparison game, finding mentors, pursuing the craft of teaching, and standing up for yourself in auditions. www.maechi.net

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Valentine's Day Edition

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 10:30:00 -0000

n this mini episode host Leah Walsh shares some personal thoughts and reads two poems dealing with grief and an excerpt from The Artist's Way on anger. Check back next week for a full new episode of The Compass Podcast! https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/amsterdam https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/orchids-are-sprouting-floorboards http://juliacameronlive.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 108: Stacey Yen

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Actor Stacey Yen shares her experiences with the dark side, finding her footing after grad school, the beauty of small things, intuition, political engagement, and building Miles for Mary with The Mad Ones. Miles for Mary has just been extended till Feb 25th at Playwrights Horizons, check it out! http://themadones.org https://www.playwrightshorizons.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 107: Nicola Rose

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Filmmaker, director, performer, and translator Nicola Rose shares her experiences with the dark side, coming off the high of finishing an artistic project, forging your own path when plans fall through, coming from an artistic family, casting, and her latest project In the Land of Moonstones. Check out what she's up to at: www.nicolaroseonline.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus: Music from Kirsten Carey of Ep 106

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Guitarist and composer Kirsten Carey of Episode 106 shares two songs by her punk duo Throwaway. Check out her project Persist: A Women's Mixtape for Planned Parenthood, a diverse mixtape of female-fronted bands from across America. All proceeds go to Planned Parenthood. Available on Bandcamp: https://ppmixtape.bandcamp.com/releases https://www.therealthrowaway.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 106: Kirsten Carey

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Guitarist and composer Kirsten Carey shares her experiences with the dark side, moving cross country, day jobs, her love of animation, the ties between meditation and jazz, and re-joining the music community in Detroit. Check out her project Persist: A Women's Mixtape for Planned Parenthood, a diverse mixtape of female-fronted bands from across America. All proceeds go to Planned Parenthood. Available on Bandcamp: https://ppmixtape.bandcamp.com/releases http://www.kirstencareymusic.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 105: David Carl

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 10:00:00 -0000

David Carl is an actor, comedian, writer, and impressionist. He shares his experiences with the dark side, how important his improv training has been to him, taking control of your artists life by writing your own work, collaboration, focusing on what's important, political satire, and his current show "Trump Lear". http://davidcarlonline.com, check out Trump Lear on Feb 3rd or 10th, 2018 in NYC, info at www.trumplear.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 104: Mauricio Salgado

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 10:30:00 -0000

Director, actor, teacher, and activist Mauricio Salgado shares his experiences with the dark side, going back to school for directing, his commitment to social action, applying his efforts to challenge oppressive systems in society to his artistic process as well, his work with non-profit Artists Striving to End Poverty, and being married to another artist. Check out his work at: www.mauriciotsalgado.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 103: Carrie Preston

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 10:00:00 -0000

Actor, director, writer, and producer Carrie Preston shares her experiences with the dark side, keeping creatively busy by making her own work along side her acting career, her involvement with The New Harmony Project supporting playwrights, growing up in an artistic family, and learning to hold on loosely to opportunities or ideas and accept change. Check out what she's up to at http://carriepreston.com and with her production company: http://daisy3pictures.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 102: Lyvonne Proverbs Picou

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Poet, preacher, and educator Lyvonne Proverbs Picou shares her experiences with the dark side, honesty, entrepreneurship, the importance of self-care, and her organization Beautiful Scars which "promotes healthy and safe conversations around religion, sex, and Blackness in order to, ultimately, address the silence in the Black Church on sexual abuse." Happy Holidays! The Compass will be back with a brand new episode on Friday, January 5th. www.lyvonnep.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: The Post Edition

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 10:00:00 -0000

I recently got to see an early screening of Steven Spielberg's "The Post", it was a very powerful film about the First Amendment. I recorded a talkback after the film with the cast (including Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks) and the casting director about the film and learning from history before it repeats itself. Check back next week for a new full episode of The Compass Podcast! Become a Patron.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 101: Rivka Rivera

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 10:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 101: Rivka Rivera is now online! Actor Rivka Rivera shares her experiences with the dark side, her work with Irondale Ensemble Project including a program that builds conversation and empathy between law enforcement officers and community members, her latest filmmaking project, recovering from an eating disorder, and finding balance. http://www.rivkarivera.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Compass LIVE, Episode 100: Jesse J. Perez

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 10:00:00 -0000

The 100th Episode Live Event (which occurred 11/19/17 in NYC): Actor, choreographer, director, and teacher Jesse. J. Perez shares his experiences with the dark side, how he's expanded his definition of who he is as an artist and the opportunities that have opened up to him because of it, collaboration, learning to say no, and the importance of honest conversations as a teacher. Featuring musical guest Samora Pinderhughes, and song and podcast theme by Brendan Spieth. Visit www.patreon.com/thecompasspodcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 98: Mirirai Sithole

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Actress Mirirai Sithole shares her experiences with the dark side, her new creative endeavor www.ayedefy.com, the freedom of sharing through writing, day jobs, finding the people who will push you to take action on your ideas, and community. Mirirai can currently be seen in School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play by Jocelyn Bioh at MCC.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 96: Tim Nicolai

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Save the date for the upcoming event, The Compass Podcast Live, Episode 100! The evening of November 19, 2017 in NYC, more info to come. Actor and writer Tim Nicolai shares his experiences dealing with the dark side, the importance of community, mentorship, and taking action in the current political climate. http://patreon.com/thecompasspodcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 95: Hillary Clemens

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actress Hillary Clemens shares her experiences with the dark side, becoming a mother as a working artist, her experiences in the midwest theater community, and the almost daily news roundups she's been writing since the election in an effort to nail down the facts in a time of misinformation and distraction in the political realm. You can follow her public posts on Facebook to view the news reports or become a patron and following along here: https://www.patreon.com/harborroundup

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 94: Adam Szymkowicz

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Playwright Adam Szymkowicz shares his experiences with the dark side, persistence, becoming a parent, advising young writers, and his interview series which has just come to an end after featuring 1,000 playwrights. You can read the 1,000 Playwright Interviews on Adam's blog: http://aszym.blogspot.com/2017/09/1000-playwright-interviews.html. Please consider supporting the ongoing production of The Compass Podcast by rating and reviewing in iTunes and becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/thecompasspodca

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rerelease Episode 88: Erin Wilhelmi

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor Erin Wilhelmi shares her experiences with the dark side, her love for supporting the development of new plays, mentors, day jobs, and what it's been like taking over a role in a play that's already been running. She was appearing as Emmy in A Doll's House, Part 2 on Broadway when this episode was recorded. Check out her work at www.erinwilhelmi.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 93: Juan Francisco Villa

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor and writer Juan Francisco Villa shares his experiences with the dark side, writing his one-man show, turning his family’s story into a way to empower others, naming what you want in life, and questioning the cultural narrative. Juan can be seen in Oedipus El Rey by Luis Alfaro at The Public Theatre starting October 3, 2017. Become a Patron of The Compass Podcast by visiting www.patreon.com/thecompasspodcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 92: Lizzie Robinson

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Stage manager Lizzie Robinson shares her experiences with the dark side, setting the tone in the rehearsal room, going after what is important to you, giving yourself projects, becoming politically active, and shifting priorities.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 91: Liz Vital

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actress and drama therapist Liz Vital shares her thoughts on dealing with the dark side, leaving L.A. for Seattle, deciding to go to graduate school for Drama Therapy, the healing power of storytelling, becoming a parent, and producing work with friends. This episode was recorded over Skype. Please consider supporting the next year of the podcast by becoming a Patron on our new Patreon page! www.patreon.com/thecompasspodcast Thank you! Note: check out the documentary Liz mentions by Zeina Daccache

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 90: Lucie Baker

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Dancer, teacher, and choreographer Lucie Baker shares her experiences with the dark side, how she approaches producing her own work, teaching, setting financial standards for yourself as an artist and asking for what you need, and her recent dive into expressive arts therapy while training at The Tamalpa Institute. Lucie is currently based in Seattle, this episode was recorded over Skype. Check out her work at www.luciebaker.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 89: Stephen Sanders

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Creative producer and chef Stephen Sanders shares his experiences with the dark side, focusing on the long term, his passion for supporting artists and building community, carrying on the legacies of his mentors, and his newest creative outlet Oxford Plaid, an intimate dinner party and creative photography service which is allowing him to bring people together in a whole new way. Check it out at www.oxfordplaid.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 87: Matt Lombardi

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 06:06:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 87: Matt Lombardi is now online! Fiction writer Matt Lombardi shares his thoughts on the dark side, his process as a writer, the long game of writing a novel, teaching, and not wasting time now that he's become a parent. The Compass was created two years ago! Happy Birthday, The Compass Podcast!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 86: Seth Numrich

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor Seth Numrich shares his thoughts on acknowledging when you're in the dark side, activism, working abroad as an American actor, the effects of commerce on the modern theatre, and coming from a creative family. Seth has been on stage in New York in shows including War Horse, Golden Boy, The Merchant of Venice, Slipping, and Iphigenia 2.0.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 85: Yara Travieso

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 02:41:00 -0000

Director, choreographer, filmmaker, and dancer Yara Travieso shares her experiences with the dark side, finding a healthier way of working, coming from a creative family, the economy of art, and deciding where to put your energy. www.yaratravieso.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 84: Jamal Callender

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Dancer and teacher Jamal Callender shares his experiences keeping out of the dark side, the strength he's finding in reexamining his approach to fitness and nutrition, the role technology plays in keeping him connected to his family and loved ones while dancing in Germany, the institutional differences in dance in Europe as opposed to the U.S.A., speaking up for yourself and your colleagues in a company setting, and starting the Barbados Dance Project. Check out the awesome work he's doing here: http://barbadosdanceproject.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 83: Delia Kropp

Sat, 15 Jul 2017 12:20:00 -0000

Actress and director Delia Kropp shares her experiences with the dark side, advocating for transgender actors and stories in the Chicago theatre scene, re-entering the profession, and the importance of pursuing opportunities you're passionate about. Check out her current work here: www.therealdelia.com. Feldenkrais lesson audio recordings mentioned can be found here: www.kinesophics.ca/category/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 82: Charlie Russell

Fri, 07 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor Charlie Russell, currently performing in The Play That Goes Wrong on Broadway, shares her experiences with the dark side, creating work with a longterm company of artists, growing in a performance and owning your choices, the long journey The Play That Goes Wrong has taken to go from performing in a pub to running the show on Broadway, taking care of yourself during a long wrong of a very physical show, and exploring New York City. Check out everything Mischief Theatre is up to here: http://mischieftheatre.co.uk

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 81: Kat Hidalgo and Anna Martine Freeman

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Filmmaker Kat Hidalgo and Actor Anna Martine Freeman share their experiences with the dark side, being an advocate for yourself and others, Kat's move from Ecuador to Canada, the Olivier Award-winning play Rotterdam that Anna is currently starring in in London, travel, activism, being proactive as queer artists, and friendship. Check out Kat's film work here: http://kat-hidalgo.com and keep informed of Anna's acting work on Twitter @annamartine_ and @RotterdamPlay.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 80: Rachel Berger

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:27:00 -0000

Actress and founder of The Artist Co-op Rachel Berger shares her experiences with the dark side, how she decided to pursue her new endeavor in creating a co-working space for artists, fundraising, mentors, bringing people together, and she gives us a tour of the space! Check out The Artist Co-op here: www.theartistco-op.com Check out The Compass Podcast Facebook page for video of this mini live episode take by Dominique Taylor of The Storyscape

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 79: Miranda Noelle Wilson

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actress, singer, dancer, and producer Miranda Noelle Wilson shares her experiences with the dark side, building a community in NYC, feeding yourself artistically, starting a new theatre company, day jobs and transitions, and looking at the big picture. Check out what she's up to: www.mirandanoellewilson.com and www.clutchproductions.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 78: Garrett David Kim

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 78: Garrett David Kim is now online! Playwright and educator Garrett David Kim shares his experiences with the dark side, growing as a playwright, finding your footing after college, and his educational work with the kids at The 52nd St Project here in NYC. Check out his work at garrettdkim.com and 52project.org!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 77: Amelia McClain

Fri, 26 May 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actress Amelia McClain shares her thoughts on the dark side, the paths that being a reader for casting directors has opened up for her, becoming a parent as an artist, auditioning, and her approach to being an understudy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 76: Ben Bartolone

Fri, 19 May 2017 09:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 76: Ben Bartolone is now online!

Playwright, actor, and producer Ben Bartolone shares his experiences with the dark side, discovering his love for playwriting, not being precious with your work, the importance of mentors helping younger artists, and The Bluestone Project which aims to foster empathy in our oft-divided nation. You can find more information about that work at: www.facebook.com/TheBluestoneProject/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 75: Danny Mefford

Fri, 12 May 2017 09:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 75: Danny Mefford. Choreographer Danny Mefford shares his experiences with the dark side, when he started identifying as a choreographer instead of a performer, the nature of collaboration, his artistic mentors, and challenging yourself. Danny's choreography can currently be seen in New York in Venus at the Signature Theatre, and Dear Evan Hansen at The Music Box Theatre on Broadway.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 74: Alex Hanna

Fri, 05 May 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor Alex Hanna shares his experiences with the dark side, self-compassion, the support of family, sustaining a long run of a play, and streamlining his life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 73: Yazmany Arboleda

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Visual artist Yazmany Arboleda shares his experiences with the dark side, the power of creating art in public spaces, following your heart instead of working within the system, valuing yourself, asking for help, and his latest project Espejismo, which asks the question "When people see you, what would you like them to know?". Check it out and share your own reflection at http://espejismo.art

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 72: Dr. Lisa Hodge Kander

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 09:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 72: Dr. Lisa Hodge Kander. Director and teacher Dr. Lisa Hodge Kander shares her experiences with the dark side, her extensive work with youth theater, going back to school to get her PhD, the importance of defining success for yourself and building a community that can truly support you, raising a family, and the role of the artist as activist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 71: Rob Goudy

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Director Rob Goudy shares his experiences with the dark side, navigating the theatre scene in his hometown of Minneapolis, looking for new ways to support yourself as an artist, growing up in the theatre, his dream spaces to direct a show in, plus some awesome recommendations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 70: Jessica Love

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actor and illustrator Jessica Love shares her experiences with the dark side, managing expectations, growing up in a family of artists, finding power in illustration and deciding to make that work another part of her career as opposed to a hobby, and the process of developing a children's book and finding a publisher.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 69: Sarah Kirkham

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Craftsperson and business owner Sarah Kirkham shares her experiences moving from building theatrical props to making handcrafted leather goods and starting her own company with her business partner, putting down roots in Milwaukee, being open to new opportunities, and her love for the National Park System. Check out her beautiful work at www.tactilecraftworks.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 68: Kahyun Kim

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 09:00:00 -0000

Actress Kahyun Kim shares her experiences with the dark side, moving to the United States from South Korea to pursue acting, navigating the TV/Film world in LA, the support of family and friends, the casting process as an asian actress, and the new play Linda Vista by Tracy Letts that she's currently in rehearsals for at Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Build a Good Name Edition

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 09:00:00 -0000

In today's mini episode, host Leah Walsh talks about hard decisions, and reads an excerpt from a talk Patti Smith gave at the Louisiana Literature Festival August 24, 2012, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. See footage of the talk here: https://vimeo.com/57857893 Check back next week for a new full episode of The Compass.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 67: Dawn Michelle Johnson

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Violist and teacher Dawn Michelle Johnson shares her experiences with the dark side, being a passionate and involved teacher, finding ways to empower artists of color in classical music, becoming a parent, and how her faith influences her art.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 66: Emma Ramos

Fri, 03 Mar 2017 16:03:00 -0000

Actor, writer and producer Emma Ramos shares her experiences with the dark side, making a big career change, co-producing her own web series, the healing power of comedy, family, and taking care of yourself during a stressful political climate. She is currently appearing in Frontieres Sans Frontieres by Phillip Howze at The Bushwick Starr, March 1-18, 2017. Check out her digital series BUTS at www.butswebseries.com, and her other work at www.emmaramos.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 65: James Davis

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Actor James Davis shares his thoughts on avoiding the dark side, being open to any path as an actor, New York City, taking time to uproot everything and travel, the support of family, and collaboration. Currently appearing in Mother of Invention by James License at Abingdon Theatre Company. Check out his work here: www.jamesdavisactor.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 64: Caitlin Cisek

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Costume Designer Caitlin Cisek shares her experiences with the dark side, juggling freelance design work, teaching, being a part of the national theatre conversation, and collaboration. Check out her work here: www.caitlincisek.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 63: Megan Donahue

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Writer and actress Megan Donahue shares her experiences with the dark side, transitioning to a new city, freelance writing, producing your own work, being an actor in a play you wrote, and free theatre. Check out her current production in Chicago: www.accomplicetheatre.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 62: Erica Badgeley

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Dancer Erica Badgeley shares her experiences with the dark side, dancing in Europe, the differences between the dance communities in America and Europe, negotiating visas and health insurance, and reevaluating your goals. Check out her blog at: www.dancingacrossborders.blogspot.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 61: Ariana Seigel

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 10:00:00 -0000

This episode begins with an article by Margaret Atwood. Comedian, writer, and performer Ariana Seigel shares her experiences with the dark side, managing anxiety, mental health for artists (she has recently started coaching artists, finding ways to fulfill career goals and overcome mental/emotional blocks), and the hustle of being a comedy writer and performer in NYC. www.arianaseigel.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 60: Frankie J. Alvarez

Fri, 20 Jan 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Actor Frankie J. Alvarez of HBO's Looking, and husband of host Leah Walsh, (this episode picks up where the Live Episode 1 of The Compass left off, released 11/11/16) shares his experiences with the dark side, speaking up as a Latino actor, the importance of community, going back to his hometown to shoot a film, and approaching auditions. Check out his website: www.frankiejalvarez.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 59: Laura Gragtmans

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Actress and singer songwriter Laura Gragtmans shares her experiences with the dark side, writing and producing her own album, auditioning, the renewing qualities of winter, and being in a relationship with another artist. Laura was a guest on The Compass Live Episode in November, but the audio was not able to be released. This is a full conversation with Laura, please go back and listen to the Live Episode (released on 11/11/2016) to hear her sing the wonderful song New York City from her album Hug The Lonely Cactus. Check out her work: www.lauragragtmans.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 58: Justin Favela

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 10:00:00 -0000

Visual artist and podcaster Justin Favela shares his experiences starting a podcast (Latinos Who Lunch), building a life as an artist in Las Vegas, getting his family involved in his work, dealing with stereotypes, his current installation at The Denver Art Museum, and staying motivated. Check out his work and wonderful podcast here: www.justinfavela.net www.latinoswholunch.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 57: Ashley Grombol

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 10:00:00 -0000

Actress and blogger Ashley Grombol shares her experiences with the dark side, building community as an actor, starting a blog from scratch, pursuing an Equity card, producing, and being married to another artist. Check out Ashley’s popular baking and style blog at www.domesticbatch.com and her acting work at www.ashleygrombol.com. Please take a moment to leave a rating or review in the iTunes store to help other artists find The Compass!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 56: Robert Karma Robinson

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 10:00:00 -0000

Actor Robert Karma Robinson shares his thoughts on the dark side, keeping creative, long-term collaborations with playwrights and mentors, day jobs, and what he loves about getting out of New York and working in regional theater. Please leave a rating or review in the iTunes store!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 55: Sydney Lowe

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 10:00:00 -0000

Producer and photographer Sydney Lowe shares her thoughts on the dark side, on starting a career in TV production, creating an inclusive women artists collective on and offline, making the move from NYC to LA, and the importance of mentorship. This episode was recorded over Skype. Check out Sydney's work at www.sydney-lowe.com & www.artgirlarmy.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 54: David Hudson

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 15:29:00 -0000

Producer, actor, singer, and Co-Artistic Director of theatre company Three Day Hangover David Hudson shares his experiences with the dark side, transitioning from focusing on acting to producing, learning the business side of running a theatre company, empowering other artists, and becoming a parent. Check out David's current production (featuring host Leah Walsh as well) here: www.drunklevanya.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 53: Casey Killoran and David Tyson Lam

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 10:00:00 -0000

Filmmakers Casey Killoran (actor/producer) and David Tyson Lam (director/producer) share their experiences with the dark side, producing their own work including their first feature film, communication, balancing each others strengths, and planning ahead for the challenges of obtaining a work visa as an international artist. (check out the details of their new film here: http://www.viralbeautymovie.com)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Compass Live Episode 1

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 13:54:00 -0000

Excerpts from Live Episode 1, which took place on 11/6/2016 at www.artsonsite.org in NYC, hosted by Leah Walsh, music by Brendan Spieth, with guests actor Frankie J. Alvarez and actress/singer songwriter Laura Gragtmans. Also, thoughts on the election. See Leah now in Drunkle Vanya, tickets at www.drunklevanya.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 52: Karl Kenzler

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Karl Kenzler is a wonderful actor, writer, director and teacher. He shares his experiences with the dark side, raising kids as an artist, creating your own work, keeping inspired during a long run of a play, and passing on the legacy of great teachers. Check out his work at DarwinTheSeries.com and www.KarlKenzler.com Also, info about the 11/6/2016 Live Episode of The Compass!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 51: Emily Simoness

Fri, 28 Oct 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Emily Simoness is the Co-Founder & Executive Director of SPACE on Ryder Farm, an artist residency in upstate NY. She shares her thoughts on the dark side, moving from a background as an actor into a new focus as SPACE has grown, the technical side of creating a non-profit, and building community. www.spaceonryderfarm.org Also, info on the upcoming Live Episode of The Compass on 11/6/2016. Check out The Compass Podcast on Facebook for all the details!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 50: Jason Gray Platt

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Playwright Jason Gray Platt shares his experiences with the dark side, new play development, balancing your financial life as an artist, collaboration, and theatre in unusual spaces. http://www.jasonplatt.com Also info on the November 6, 2016 Live Episode of The Compass!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 49: Samora Pinderhughes

Fri, 14 Oct 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Jazz pianist, composer, and activist Samora Pinderhughes shares his experiences with the dark side, music as social action, collaboration, self releasing an album, and finding balance in an uncertain field. Check out his amazing work: www.transformationssuite.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 48: Chris Perfetti

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Actor Chris Perfetti shares his experiences with the many facets of the dark side, the importance of community in a healthy life in the arts, acting in TV (including on HBO’s Looking) vs on stage, #fairwageonstage, and type casting. Please rate and review the podcast in iTunes. Live Episode of The Compass in NYC the evening of Sunday, November 6th, 2016! More info soon.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 47: Nigel Campbell

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Nigel Campbell is a dancer and Co-Founder/Artistic Director of MOVE NYC, a tuition free summer dance intensive for NYC youth. He shares his experiences with the dark side, building MOVE NYC from the ground up, making professional decisions that prioritize your well-being, dancing abroad and returning to New York, and using dance for community action. www.movenyc.nyc

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 46: Jenna Pollack

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Dancer and teacher Jenna Pollack shares her thoughts on the dark side, expanding the definition of dance, redefining value systems for yourself, understanding the business side of the arts, and dancing in Europe. www.jennapollack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 45: Wes Grantom

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Director Wes Grantom shares his experiences with the dark side, being a parent in NYC, producing your own work, day jobs, and finding balance. Check out his theatre company Crowded Outlet: www.crowdedoutlet.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 44: Liz Jenkins

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 09:00:00 -0000

Actress Liz Jenkins shares her thoughts on the dark side, being an actor in LA, sketch comedy and improv, confidence, bringing yourself out in auditions, and making your own work. Check out her current project, WERK Web Series, here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/werk-web-series

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 43: Kambi Gathesha

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 10:00:00 -0000

The Compass Podcast, Episode 43: Kambi Gathesha is now online! Actor and dancer Kambi Gathesha shares his experiences with the dark side, evolving as an artist, combining mediums, and the balancing act between what is fulfilling artistically vs financially.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 42: Ceci Fernandez

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 10:00:00 -0000

Actress and writer Ceci Fernandex shares her experiences with the dark side, deciding to go to grad school, the support of friends and family, collaboration, facing other people's expectations as a Latina actress, and making her own work. Ceci writes for @InstaMiniSeries on Instagram, check it out! The Compass is beginning to partner with Playbill.com this week, the episodes will be featured in the Jobs section and keep an eye out for future collaborations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Happy Anniversary Edition

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 13:49:00 -0000

Join me for some thoughts on the first year of the podcast, a reading from Catching the Big Fish by David Lynch, and a piece by playwright John Patrick Shanley, and check back next week for another full episode of The Compass. Thank you for listening, and please rate The Compass in iTunes! - Leah Walsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 41: Caroline Wright

Fri, 12 Aug 2016 21:46:00 -0000

Cook, writer, and food stylist Caroline Wright talks about dealing with the dark side, always moving forward, how her move out of NYC has impacted her career, balancing her creative work with brand management and publicity, and being a working parent. Check out her beautiful work (as well as her new cookbook, Cake Magic) here: http://carolinewrightfood.com/about

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode: Empower Edition

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 13:30:00 -0000

Join me for a look back at Three Day Hangover's EMPOWER HOUR event, addressing the violence seen all over our country this summer with community, art, and honesty. Check back next week for a new full episode. Thank you for listening, and please leave a rating or review in iTunes if you have a moment. Have a great weekend!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 40: Dion Mucciacito

Sat, 30 Jul 2016 03:10:00 -0000

Actor, filmmaker, and visual artist Dion Mucciacito shares his thoughts on the dark side, finding flow in an unpredictable lifestyle, discipline, the differences between making art in L.A. vs. NYC, and embracing change. (http://www.dionmucciacito.com) The Compass was featured on Playbill.com this week! Check it out

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 39: Sean Parker

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 22:17:00 -0000

Actor and writer Sean Parker shares his experiences with the dark side, making a cross-country move, creating your own work, solitude, success, and storytelling.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 38: Beth Kander

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Playwright Beth Kander shares her experiences with the dark side, how her time living in rural Michigan and Jackson, Mississippi have influenced the way she tells stories, the "emerging playwright" situation in today's theater culture, and how she and her husband are preparing for their soon-to-be roles as artists who are parents. Check out Beth's work and upcoming events at http://www.bethkander.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 37: Nate Miller

Fri, 08 Jul 2016 13:00:00 -0000

Actor Nate Miller discusses the dark side, keeping busy between jobs, co-founding his theater company Lesser America, community, family, and his love of the ongoing cultural conversation in New York.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode 10,000 Downloads Edition

Fri, 01 Jul 2016 12:30:00 -0000

Join me for an article about the dangers of suppressing anger, and a poem by Billy Collins read by a special guest, Frankie J. Alvarez. Check back next week for a full episode. We reached 10,000 downloads of The Compass this week! Thank you for listening, and please leave a rating or review in iTunes if you have a moment.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 36: Caroline Fermin

Fri, 24 Jun 2016 21:22:00 -0000

Dancer Caroline Fermin shares her thoughts on the dark side, how she approaches running her own business as a freelancer, going through hard transitions, and her teaching work with some great nonprofits.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 35: Daniel Talbott

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 15:56:00 -0000

Actor, director, playwright, and producer Daniel Talbott shares his experiences with the dark side, collaboration, creating work no matter what the budget, building community, and raising a family with his wife who is also an artist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 34: Rachel Rusch

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Rachel Rusch is an actor and social worker, she shares her experiences working with children, deciding to pursue masters degrees in social work and child development, how she uses her artistry and creativity in the new environments she's working in, her work with SPACE on Ryder Farm, and her relationship to New York City.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 33: Josh Sauerman

Fri, 03 Jun 2016 14:13:00 -0000

Actor Josh Sauerman shares his experiences dealing with the dark side, prioritizing flexibility in his day job, growing up in the Florida Keys, and finding your own opportunities.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode Where Are We Edition

Sun, 29 May 2016 17:52:00 -0000

Join me for an article by playwright Marsha Norman (http://marshanorman.com/On_Playwriting.htm) and some reflection on a recent project of mine, and check back next week for another full episode of The Compass. - Leah Walsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 32: Chad Goodridge

Fri, 20 May 2016 11:30:00 -0000

Actor, singer, and dancer Chad Goodridge shares his experiences building practices into his life that help him avoid the dark side, the importance of communication in creative collaborations, developing new plays, and keeping things in perspective. Check out the new theatre company Chad is a part of: Crowded Outlet, they have a production called Lone Star Spirits June 3-19, 2016 @ 4th St Theatre in NYC.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 31: Abby Gerdts

Fri, 13 May 2016 13:06:00 -0000

Actor, teacher, and activist Abby Gerdst shares her experiences avoiding the dark side, starting a non profit, working with kids around the world, transitioning to focusing primarily on acting again, and how building community has always been a priority for her.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 30: Samantha Thornhill

Fri, 06 May 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Poet, performer, writer Samantha Thornhill shares her experiences dealing with the changing weather of the dark side, her healing mechanisms, the power of the journal, leaving New York and parenting her son in the country she was born in, and embracing the unknown. Check out her powerful work at www.samanthaspeaks.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode Don't Worry Baby Edition

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 14:01:00 -0000

Join me for a reading of a personal essay by Kim Brooks titled "Portrait of the Artist As a Young Mom: Is domestic life the enemy of creative work?" (http://nymag.com/thecut/2016/04/portrait-motherhood-creativity-c-v-r.html), an excerpt from Just Kids by Patti Smith, and a listening recommendation to get you through the weekend, and check back next week for another full episode of The Compass - Leah Walsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 29: Joel B. New

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 13:00:00 -0000

Composer, lyricist, and singer Joel B. New shares his thoughts on the dark side, showing up, day jobs, his awesome podcast "Something New", his writing process, crowdfunding, and Murder She Wrote. Joel also shares a new song from his upcoming EP! www.joelbnew.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 28: David Caudle

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Playwright and painter David Caudle shares his experiences carving out time to write when his time is taken up by a day job he loves, moving upstate, the importance of gratitude for the people in your life who support you, and addressing environmental issues in his writing (check out his lovely work at www.davidcaudle.org)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 27: Pirronne Yousefzadeh

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 13:00:00 -0000

Director and teacher Pirronne Yousefzadeh shares her experiences with developing her leadership style, devising new work, working away from home for long stretches at a time, her mentors and teachers, and the year of candor. Check out her work at www.pirronne.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 26: Ryan O'Byrne

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 16:10:00 -0000

Actor and visual artist/performance artist Ryan O'Byrne shares his experiences dealing with the dark side, moving across the country, and pushing artistic boundaries. Check out his work at ryandavidobyrne2014.weebly.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode Spring Is Coming Edition

Fri, 25 Mar 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Join me for an excerpt from an article on poet Mary Oliver and one of her poems (https://www.brainpickings.org/2015/01/20/mary-oliver-molly-malone-cook-our-world/), a chapter from Letters to a Young Artist by Anna Deavere Smith, and check back next week for another full episode of The Compass. - Leah Walsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 25: Erica Newhouse

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 03:18:00 -0000

Actor and teacher Erica Newhouse shares her experiences learning to teach, finding day jobs that work for her, living in a one room apartment with no kitchen and finding ways to be creative in that small space (read her blog about her cooking adventures here: http://cookwithoutakitchen.blogspot.com), the importance of being ready for opportunities when they arise, and raising her 8 month old daughter in New York City.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 24: Phil Pickens

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 18:31:00 -0000

Musician and songwriter Phil Pickens talks about his songwriting process, training and working as an actor and then deciding to focus fully on music, his day job solution, collaborating with other musicians, and being married to another artist. Check out his amazing work at www.philpickens.com and see him play live March 20th, 2016 at Rockwood Music Hall.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 23: Chanel DaSilva

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 13:00:00 -0000

Dancer Chanel DaSilva shares her experiences battling the dark side, transitioning from dance company life to freelancing, the drive to be visible as a dancer, and starting a new dance organization with her best friend, which will provide a free summer dance intensive to NYC youth. Learn more about MOVE(NYC) at http://www.movenyc.nyc #jointhemovement

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 22: Alex Chappo

Fri, 26 Feb 2016 13:00:00 -0000

Musician Alex Chappo, lead singer of the band CHAPPO, shares his thoughts on the dark side, creativity, life as part of a band, and making stop motion videos that took over his apartment. Check out the videos in question (and more info about CHAPPO) at www.chappomusic.com/singularity

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode Leaving Town Edition

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 12:00:00 -0000

Dealing with the dark side myself this week; join me for a quote from Rainer Maria Rilke, a poem by Billy Collins and check back next week for another full episode of The Compass. -Leah Walsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 21: Jess Watkins

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 13:30:00 -0000

Actor Jess Watkins shares her experiences trying to stay out of the dark side, exploring the world of stand up comedy, writing her own material, and healing from an injury which forced a change in day job.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 20: Mark Junek

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 22:18:00 -0000

Actor Mark Junek shares his thoughts on finding the work that's important to you, building a home in a crazy city, starting and maintaining a non-profit, piecing together the finances of an actor, and being a true fan. Check out his amazing artist retreat: Makehouse www.makehouse.org . Other great organizations mentioned in this episode: Artists Striving To End Poverty www.astep.org and Arts In The Armed Forces www.aitaf.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 19: Nick Choksi

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 14:56:00 -0000

Actor Nick Choksi talks about the ways he combats self doubt, how his outlook on filling every second of his day has changed, how he and his wife (who is also an artist) are approaching planning for the future, and his family's first reaction to him pursuing acting as a career. Nick is also a beautiful songwriter and shares a new song with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 18: MacKenzie Meehan

Sat, 23 Jan 2016 21:39:00 -0000

Actor MacKenzie Meehan talks about dealing with the ups, downs and the seeming randomness of life as an actor. She shares her experiences confronting the dark side with the help of close friends, making her own work, learning to prioritize what is important to her and deciding to start a family.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 17: Joel Rainwater

Fri, 15 Jan 2016 12:56:00 -0000

Actor Joel Rainwater shares his experiences with the dark side, navigating working out of town with a spouse who is also an actor, taking care of himself in the city, and how he stays creative when he's not acting.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 16: Alana Jacoby

Fri, 18 Dec 2015 19:55:00 -0000

Lighting designer and musical theatre book/lyric writer Alana Jacoby talks about how she avoids the dark side by staying busy, problem solving, being in a relationship with another designer, balancing her alter egos of designer and writer, and her artistic community.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 15: Rebecca Hirota

Fri, 11 Dec 2015 22:50:00 -0000

Actress Rebecca Hirota shares her thoughts on the dark side, the evolution of her day job, being a collaborative artist, and how you leave a state like Hawaii.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode Tarot Edition with Adam Scott Mazer

Fri, 04 Dec 2015 18:16:00 -0000

In this mini episode, Leah shares an article which gives specific examples of how art can improve communities. Playwright Adam Scott Mazer reads Leah's tarot cards and talks about the process of developing his play, The Tower, which is now getting a full production at HERE Arts Center Dec 4-19, 2015.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 14: Wesleigh Gates

Fri, 27 Nov 2015 16:44:00 -0000

Director and performer Wesleigh Gates shares their experiences producing their own work, battling imposter syndrome and the dark side, building lasting relationships with playwrights and collaborators, and a current project which tells the intense story of The Donner Party. (At the time of this interview Wesleigh went by different name, which you will hear reflected in the audio of the podcast)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 13: Kim Miller

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:00:00 -0000

Stage manager, director, and visual artist Kim Miller (creator of The Compass cover art!) shares her thoughts on not taking things personally, being realistic, having a supportive family, and working in vastly different forms of theatre.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 11: Dwayne Washington

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 13:00:00 -0000

Singer Dwayne Washington shares his unique journey over the past few years: moving away from singing (and the USA), coming back, wanting to be a part of telling under represented stories, and dealing with the dark side of a life in the arts.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 10: Dylan Christina Moore

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0000

Actor and producer Dylan Christina Moore shares her experiences curating new work in unusual settings, prioritizing happiness, the artist as citizen, and finding her way out of the dark side. Check out the work she does with ASTEP (and Episode 1 guest, Alejandro Rodriguez) at https://asteponline.org and her producing work with her company Our Exquisite Corpse.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 9: Lori Wolter Hudson

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 18:31:00 -0000

Director Lori Wolter Hudson talks about producing her own work, having her baby six weeks early and how that affected her latest production, letting go, and the stability of a full time day job. Check out Lori's theater company Three Day Hangover at www.threedayhangover.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 8: Collin Baja

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0000

Dancer and actor Collin Baja shares his experiences with balancing his creative drive and taking care of his body and mind. He talks about what the dark side looks like for him and how friendships and meditation help him stay out of it. Also: being in a relationship with another artist, Fort Tryon Park, modeling as a day job, and focusing on what's really important in life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 7: Britannie Bond

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 13:00:00 -0000

Actress Britannie Bond discusses her time in New York, finding photography, the virtues of stability in a day job, and the glories of BAM.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 6: Vichet Chum

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0000

Actor and writer Vichet Chum shares his experiences building an artistic life in New York City and battling the dark side with writing. He talks about the one-person show he's been working on about his Cambodian heritage, The Group Lab theatre company, and finding a day job which uses his education.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mini Episode

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0000

No guest this week, new episode next Friday! In the meantime, Leah shares a few thought provoking pieces to get your Friday started: a quote from President Obama and a speech by performance artist Taylor Mac.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 5: Jeff Sykes

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 13:00:00 -0000

Dancer Jeff Sykes discusses the need for mutual respect in the world of freelance dance, his approach to auditions as two-way conversations, and the physical practices that help keep him away from the dark side.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 4: Brendan Spieth

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 17:46:00 -0000

Actor Brendan Spieth talks about how he deals with the dark side and charting his own path, spanning music, theatre, food, and dance. He shares one of his songs and its origin. Brendan is also responsible for The Compass intro and outro music.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brendan Spieth Preview: Two Original Songs

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 14:31:00 -0000

A sneak peak at the upcoming episode featuring Brendan Spieth, hear two of his original songs and how one of them came to be. Keep an eye out for Brendan's episode of The Compass later this week!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 3: Amanda Sykes

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 13:00:00 -0000

In Episode 3 of The Compass, actress Amanda Sykes talks about the dark side and how she finds her way out of it, her love for New York City, and perseverance.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 2: Stephanie Wright Thompson

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 14:00:00 -0000

In Episode 2 of The Compass, actress Stephanie Wright Thompson shares her experiences balancing creating new work with her theatre company (The Mad Ones), day jobs, refining priorities, and finding a little time to slow down. Check out The Mad Ones upcoming projects here: http://themadones.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 1: Alejandro Rodriguez

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 19:26:00 -0000

Alejandro Rodriguez talks about the path that has led him to an extremely varied artistic life. Check out asteponline.org for more info on Artists Striving to End Poverty, the organization Alejandro does much of his teaching and outreach with.