Empowered Artist Collective Podcast - for actors, singers, dancers, writers, creators and performers

In this episode, Jennifer brings back tax professional, Hannah Cole, to further assist in navigating the complexities of taxes for creative and self-employed individuals. She sheds light on the complexities of self-employment tax, income tax, the privilege of deducting business expenses, and the importance of staying informed about quarterly tax payments. They talk about W2, W4, & W9s, LLCs, the d...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Allison Pearce who shares her journey of becoming a costume designer for TV & film. She breaks down the various positions in the costume and wardrobe departments, how each impacts the process on set, and talks about the importance of collaboration in bringing a director's vision to life. They discuss her decision-making process when choosing projects, her efforts...

In this episode, Jennifer talks with multi-hat-wearing actor, comedian, director, producer, and filmmaker, Emily Dayton Evans. They chat about navigating the improv and comedy spaces, finding joy in creativity, and the challenges of balancing various artistic pursuits. They unpack the importance of creating a supportive community and finding like-minded people with whom to work. Plus, they discuss...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Allegra Edwards who shares insights into her life as an actress, mother, wife, and sister. They unpack Allegra’s journey with landing the series regular, Ingrid, in the Amazon Prime series "Upload" starting from her unique initial audition and highlighting the challenges and growth she experienced throughout the three seasons, especially while maintaining positiv...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Tania Bhattacharyya who delves into the transformative power & untapped potential of using LinkedIn for creative individuals and artists. She dispels the notion that LinkedIn is a corporate and sterile platform by sharing her journey of using the platform to build a human-driven space. They discuss the power of storytelling to build trust and foster relationships...

In this podcast episode, Jennifer chats with Kel Haney all about fundraising. Kel shares what led her from being a theater director in NYC to becoming a fundraising coach, consultant, and trainer. She gives insights on transforming the often uncomfortable process of fundraising into an opportunity for building meaningful relationships, empasizing that anyone can fundraise successfully, even withou...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to casting director Erica Jensen who shares her personal journey of getting her MFA in Acting to finding her true calling in casting. They discuss the evolving landscape of auditions in this “post-pandemic” world, the technical aspects of self-tapes, and navigating one’s social media presence. They also speak about the significance of cultivating relationships, the...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Christina Pumariega all about the tangible aspects of TV writing, pilots, and storytelling. Puma shares what inspired her to write her first pilot, how she ended up landing a writer’s room gig, and the importance of community. They delve into the intricacies of structure - from creating compelling loglines to storyengines to ABC breakdowns to character descriptio...

In this week’s episode, Jennifer chats with Emily Grace to talk about helping actors write their dream roles. Emily shares the highs and lows of her artistic endeavors, exploring the delicate balance between running a business and nurturing one's artistic soul, touching on themes of delegation, overcoming doubt, and the importance of embracing the messy creative process. They discuss the art of br...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) consultant, Kira Troilo. Kira highlights the importance of an "equity-first" approach in the DEI framework, emphasizing the need to create systems that support and value diversity and inclusion in the arts. They unpack the various aspects of EDI, the challenges faced in theater companies, and the need to address implicit bia...

In this episode, Jennifer brings back Joanna Carpenter to the podcast. She shares her journey of cultivating self-trust and how it has transformed her life, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging past mistakes as a path to growth and personal liberation. They unpack the lens of curiosity and self-acceptance as a way to navigate the complexities of life and find possibility in the gray areas....

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, Orit Krug, about the transformative power of dance movement therapy. Orit shares how it’s possible to heal trauma by tuning into sensations and being curious about its origins in order to better move through emotions and connect more deeply with oneself and interpersonally. They discuss the power of integrating mind and b...

In this episode, Jennifer chats with singer, actress, and activist, Malynda Hale. Her unwavering faith and spirituality guide her in speaking out for marginalized groups with earnestness, vulnerability, and kindness. As such, they talk about the challenges of engaging in difficult conversations in today's fast-paced and divided world, especially on social media. They share insights on giving onese...

In this podcast episode, Jennifer sits down with Marissa Ghavami as they shares their personal healing journey, which led to the creation of Healing TREE, a 501c3 organization dedicated to healing trauma through resources, education, and entertainment. The discussion dives into the nature of trauma, distinguishing between "big T" and "small t" traumas, and the impact of cumulative life stressors....

In this podcast episode, Jennifer has a heart-conversation with Emily Martinez all about navigating the tumultuous journey of being an artist and creative. They talk about what it means to openly share the highs and lows of one’s artistic pursuits on social media, battling the comparison game, embracing one's uniqueness, and the transformative power of becoming our own biggest cheerleader in a wor...

While we are on our mid-season 2 hiatus, we wanted to share an Episode Guide with you outlining what we have released thus far to help you navigate through your listening! This guide breaks down our episodes from Season 1 and thus far in Season 2 into categories so you can better decide what you might be most intrigued by or discover a guest you wanted to hear from more in depth. We hope it can be...

In this episode of the podcast, Jennifer talks to attorney Lauren Bercuson about the ways to protect oneself with or without representation in this industry. They unpack the importance of hiring a lawyer to navigate contracts or other alternatives if hiring one is not possible. Lauren provides negotiating tips on ways to be assertive while maintaining respect, the value of trademarks and copyright...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Adrienne Rose White about pitching and selling TV shows. Adrienne shares her journey, her creative process, and what has worked/not worked for her. She provides insights into crafting effective pitch materials, navigating the dynamics between production companies and networks, and building authentic connections. They talk about the importance of celebrating every...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Kati Schwartz about channeling challenging personal experience into art and more specifically, playwriting. They delve into large themes of gaslighting, the importance of trusting one's gut, and the complexities of culpability and complicity. They explore what it means to rewire memories, experience betrayal, and to trust the wrong people. They address the bystan...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Emilie Leyes about brain training and hypnosis. They share what led them to this work and how rewiring our brains through self-hypnosis and visualization can bring about profound changes in our lives and health. They unpack misconceptions surrounding hypnosis and expand on how it can be used as a tool for transformation and rewiring the subconscious mind. Plus, E...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Melissa Moschitto and Dr. Haile Eshe Cole of The Anthropologists to discuss their unique approach to investigative theater and explore how anthropology & research intersect with storytelling & art. They share what it means to challenge assumptions, break predominant narratives, and unearth hidden histories. They also navigate leaning into gaps, asking critical qu...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Jenny Piersol about navigating fear, the importance of courage, and the concept of doing something right vs. truthfully. They discuss how to demystify overwhelming emotions in the creative process, how to break down bigger tasks into smaller steps, and how to cultivate connections and build relationships. Plus, they remind us of the power of empathy, that everyon...

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Sarah Wenig, a registered dietitian and nutritionist specializing in performance and sports nutrition for athletes and performing artists. Sarah clarifies the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist, addresses misconceptions, and highlights the significance of listening to one's body. They discuss the athleticism of performers, the importance of recog...

In this episode, Jennifer talks again to tax professional and artist, Hannah Cole, who returns after Ep. 48 Taxes 101 for Artists. This time, they chat all about the concept of “fuck you money” and its power in granting personal agency. Hannah emphasizes the need for a personal finance plan that goes beyond budgeting and focuses on building a surplus of money. She outlines an order of operations f...

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Alesha Cid-Vega, who shares her journey as an international student coming to the US to pursue theater which ultimately led her to explore the intersection of psychology and the arts. They explore her current research in mental health and wellness that focuses on building systems of care and promoting accessibility in the arts community. They emphasize the import...