Life In Bold with Ben Hawes

Welcome to Episode 72 of "Life in Bold" with Ben Hawes! In this episode, Ben takes us on a journey from his early inspiration by iCarly to his current success as a content creator and podcaster. Discover how iCarly sparked his interest in the internet and led him to create content for over 17 years. Ben shares exciting news about a new podcasting platform that has enhanced his production capabilities, making editing and storytelling more seamless than ever. As we celebrate reaching Episode 72, Ben reflects on the challenges and triumphs of podcasting, drawing inspiration from fellow podcaster Victoria Brown. Learn about the persistence required to reach podcast milestones and the importance of embracing change for personal growth. Ben discusses his aspirations for 2026, focusing on innovation, setting new goals, and balancing personal and professional life. This episode is packed with insights on creativity, the evolution of Ben Hawes HQ, and the joy of pursuing passions. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, Ben's journey offers valuable lessons on living life boldly and authentically. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiration and actionable insights. Subscribe now and join Ben on his journey of creativity and growth. #Podcasting #ContentCreation #LifeInBold #PersonalGrowth #Innovation

In this episode, I talk through the mix of feelings that hit me after my big trip back to California, a wedding in San Francisco, and my return to NYC. I ended up needing an "emergency life coaching session" with Claire from The Happy Hour in Nashville (virtually), and I walked away with some new insights that honestly shifted a lot for me.I get into the difference between success and security, how to actually show up for someone who’s feeling low, what manifesting really means in practice rather than the way it gets talked about, and my wish for you as we close out 2025.

As 2025 winds down, I’m sitting with the big questions. Should I get a job again? Is my business working? What’s next for me creatively, financially, personally? This episode isn’t a highlight reel — it’s an honest check-in about what it feels like to chase big dreams when the year is ending and you’re not sure what the next one will bring.If you’ve ever questioned your direction or felt that mix of hope and panic that comes with a new year, this one’s for you.

In the very very iconic Episode 69 of Life in Bold, host Ben Hawes sits down with Mike Andronico, an Astoria-based musician and tech review journalist for CNN Underscored, to talk about his journey into music, friendship, and creative expression. Mike opens up about finding new friendships through band life, balancing two active music projects, and the release of Ghost Tour’s upcoming EP.Mike's Insta: https://www.instagram.com/mike_andronicoBen's Insta: : https://www.instagram.com/benhawesHQThis milestone episode 69 also features a live performance of Mike’s original Ghost Tour song “NBA Playoffs” — a heartfelt track that goes way deeper than basketball.Whether you're a fellow musician, a late bloomer creative, or just here for the vibes (and the fact that it's episode 69), you’ll love this conversation.Keywords: Mike Andronico podcast, Ghost Tour band, NBA Playoffs song, Life in Bold episode 69, musician friendships, adult creativity, indie music Brooklyn, Queens, Ghost Tour EP, creative late bloomers, Ben Hawes podcast, music and identity, live music podcast, funny episode 69 podcast, NYC musicians, music friendships.

In this episode of Life in Bold, I sit down with comedian, cabaret star, and international man of intrigue David Mills.We talk about everything from working with Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant in Florence Foster Jenkins, to building a comedy career across San Francisco, New York, and London, to the magic of sitting on a stool and saying something funny.We also get into:Why London comedy audiences are differentHow stand-up and cabaret overlap (and where they don’t)What it means to reinvent yourself—again and againWhy boldness doesn’t always mean being loud and bigDavid shares hilarious stories, hard-won wisdom, and the kind of advice only a sharp, stylish comic who’s seen it all can give.💬 Tell us in the comments what “being bold” means to you.🔔 Subscribe for more bold conversations with artists, creatives, and people doing things their own way.📌 Follow David MillsInstagram: @davidmillsdeptSubstack: Quality Time with David Mills📌 Follow me (Ben Hawes)Instagram: @benhawesHQCreative Work: https://benhawesHQ.com🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.

In Episode 68 of Life in Bold, Ben Hawes sits down with Sarah Batchu, a bold first-time candidate for New York City Council in District 2. From knocking on doors to fighting for housing justice, Sarah is running a grassroots campaign focused on equity, housing, public health, and a healthy dose of queer visibility. She shares stories from the trail (including a surprise “I love Sarah Batchu!” moment), her deep roots in public service, and her commitment to making NYC a city where everyone can thrive.Q: What’s her vision for District 2?A city that works for everyone — not just the wealthy. That means building affordable housing, expanding mental health care, and protecting public hospitals like Beth Israel.Q: How does she support LGBTQ+ New Yorkers?By fighting for gender-affirming care, investing in queer youth, and pushing back on policies that harm trans communities.Q: What makes her different from other candidates?Sarah’s worked in City Hall, built programs for underserved youth, and led on-the-ground community efforts in the Lower East Side.Visit sarahbatchu.nyc to learn more, donate, or find your early voting location before the June 24th primary.Find Ben Hawes at BenHawesHQ.com

In this episode of Life in Bold, I (Ben Hawes!) sit down with the absolutely iconic Liz Coin—actor, improviser, and full-on clown—to talk about what it actually means to live boldly as an artist. Liz gets real about bombing on stage, finding joy in the flop, and why letting her 11-year-old self run the show might be the best decision she’s ever made.We get into clowning, perfectionism, social media, grief, self-trust, and what happens when you finally stop trying to be someone else and just… become a weirdo on purpose. This convo is full of heart, hilarity, and some serious creative truth bombs.She’s off to Edinburgh Fringe, I just dropped my EP, and we both agree—feet on the floor is where the magic happens.—🎧 Hosted by Ben Hawes @BenHawesHQ🎟 Follow Liz @lizcoin✨ Subscribe for more episodes about boldness, creativity, and becoming who you actually are

In this honest and deeply relatable episode, Host Ben Hawes sits down with fellow musical comedian and performer Seann Cantatore for her third time on Life in Bold. The two dive into the messy reality of pursuing creative dreams—the comparison traps, the Instagram illusions, and why “killing it” doesn’t always feel like success.Subscribe for new episodes!

Are you ready to make 2025 the year you finally step up your social media game? In this solo Life in Bold episode, I’m diving deep into the 3 traps that stop so many of us from posting as much as we should—and why those traps are holding you back from greatness. ⚡ Disclaimer: This isn’t about your work or stage performances. It’s about showing up authentically online, embracing the awkwardness, and discovering the freedom to create without overthinking. Here’s what we’re tackling: Why 9 out of 10 posts might flop (and why that's totally OK). The secret to embracing the cringe and silencing the fear of judgment. Understanding the difference between fear of failure and perfectionism—and how both can paralyze your progress. If you’re done letting fear, judgment, or perfectionism hold you back, this episode is your permission slip to post boldly, imperfectly, and unapologetically. Let’s get you creating content that feels so you and makes 2025 your most visible, vibrant year yet. It’s time to break free, get bold, and own your social media space. Let’s do this! 🎙️

Get ready for 20 non-stop minutes of laughter and bold moments from Life In Bold in 2024! This compilation features the funniest, most memorable highlights from the year, showcasing the comedic journey of boldness with incredible guests and outrageous moments. Whether it's bold advice, hilarious stories, or unexpected twists, this video has it all! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Life In Bold for more episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and comedic insights from your favorite NYC comedians. Share your favorite moment in the comments below! #LifeInBold #2024Highlights #FunnyMoments #ComedyCompilation #NYCComedians #Boldness #Laughter #LifeInBoldPodcast #BenHawes

Join me, Ben Hawes, on a journey of boldness and self-discovery. After a quarter-life crisis at 29, I embarked on a mission to understand what it truly means to live life boldly. Through candid conversations with inspiring guests and personal reflections, I explore the mindsets, habits and actions that allow people to courageously pursue their passions and create the life they want. Whether you're seeking more courage, clarity or conviction, this podcast will empower you to drop the need for approval, take calculated risks, and unapologetically be your authentic self. Get ready to be challenged, motivated and encouraged to live life in bold.

In today’s episode, I review one of the most challenging and rewarding years of my life and discuss what I hope to achieve and accomplish in 2025.  Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/benhaweshq TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@benhaweshq Keywords:  Queer comedy Mental Health LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

In today’s episode (we made it to 60!!) I got to interview my very own life coach from Nashville’s The Happy Hour, which is a mental wellness studio focused on a variety of methodologies— they have therapy, life coaching, energy work, and so much more— and they recently launched a new app “The Daily Happy,” which is built to be your daily journey of self centering.  Claire has helped me so much in the last 2 years with my creative projects and my life path, and has had a personal hand in helping me create the vision of this podcast! She helped build the Happy Hour up to what it is today, and if you’re in Nashville, go check it out!  Check out the Daily Happy App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-daily-happy/id6502851494 Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/benhaweshq TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@benhaweshq The Happy Hour: http://www.instagram.com/thehappyhour_nash Keywords:  Queer comedy Mental Health LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

Today we have quite a treat with musician Kate Keller— I was so excited to interview Kate about her musical skills and authentic songwriting process — very bold and honest and I was thrilled to learn more about her process! Kate is a 27 year old New York based singer and songwriter, and just released her new song, “How It Ends” which tells the story of the possibilities of how a relationship may or may not turn out. You can find Kate Keller on all music streaming platforms, YouTube, and at KateKellerMusic.com Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Kate Keller: http://www.instagram.com/Kate_Kellah Keywords:  Queer comedy LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

Welcome to Episode 58 of Life in Bold! This week, I’m thrilled to bring you an incredible conversation with the one and only Steven Zakari—a phenomenal comedian, entertainer, and one of the most engaging podcast guests I’ve ever had the pleasure of hosting. This episode quickly became one of my all-time favorites, and I’m so excited to share it with you. In this episode, Steven and I dive deep into some fascinating (and hilarious) topics: 🎭 The realities of homophobia in comedy and how it shapes our experiences as queer performers. 🏳️‍🌈 Our coming-out stories and how they’ve influenced our creativity and careers. 📺 Wild ideas for new Netflix shows we think you’re going to love. 🎤 Steven’s unabashed love for BoA, the K-pop sensation who continues to inspire him. And, as a cherry on top of this fantastic conversation, we somehow ended up brainstorming ideas for Christmas albums! Yes, we’re both thinking of stepping into the holiday music arena, and let’s just say the results could be iconic. Stay tuned for updates on that. 🎄🎶 This episode is packed with laughs, heartfelt moments, and creative inspiration—you won’t want to miss it! WATCH NOW on YouTube, or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for the full experience. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes that bring boldness, laughter, and authenticity to your week. Let me know in the comments what your favorite part of the episode is, and if you’d be down to listen to our (potentially legendary) Christmas albums someday! 😉 Thanks so much for tuning in—now go live your dreams! 🌟 #LifeInBold #Podcast #StevenZakari #Comedy #ComingOut #Netflix #BoA #ChristmasAlbums

🎙️ Finding Boldness: Embracing Life's Transitions with Meg Chizek 🎙️ In this episode of Life in Bold, Ben sits down with comedian and former dancer Meg Chizek. From her one-woman show How to Give Up on Your Dreams to her transition from dance to comedy, Meg’s story is all about self-trust and following your intuition. Join us as we discuss life in your 30s, bold moves, and making the leap to embrace new dreams. 🌈✨ 🔑 In this episode: Navigating big life transitions Trusting yourself in uncertain times Embracing authenticity as a performer Growing up in the dance world & switching careers 👀 Watch more to explore: If you’re feeling the pull to follow your dreams, this episode is for you! Don’t miss our conversation about letting go, finding your purpose, and what it truly means to live a life in bold. Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Meg Chizek: http://www.instagram.com/megsi_lee Keywords:  Queer comedy LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

In this episode of Life in Bold, Ben sits down with Andrea Coleman, a New York-based comedian and storyteller known for her powerful solo show Three White Guys Named John. Andrea shares her journey from practicing law to embracing comedy, revealing how her legal career influences her humor and her life philosophy. They dive into Andrea’s evolving relationship with the law, storytelling, and spirituality, discussing divine intuition, creative inspiration, and the complexity of life’s unexpected signs. Ben and Andrea also chat about authenticity, career changes, and how comedy can transform our understanding of challenging experiences. Tune in for a conversation full of laughter, vulnerability, and insights on pursuing dreams in the face of fear and uncertainty. Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: * Life In Bold: * INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod * TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod * Ben Hawes: * INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod * TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod * Andrea Coleman: http://www.instagram.com/andreacolema... Keywords: * Queer Comedy * LGBTQ+ podcast * New York Comedy * Musical comedian * Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the wonderful Valerie Ward for an in-depth conversation about her life, her journey with improv and comedy, and how she balances her corporate career with her creative passions.  Valerie shared her unique experiences growing up in Texas, from her quirky fashion sense in high school to her early love of theater and improv. We explored how those formative years shaped her self-confidence and desire to express her creativity, even when faced with self-consciousness and the pressures of being seen as the "smart" kid. As Valerie transitioned to college and then her career in marketing consulting, we discussed the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance and carving out time for her improv group and comedy pursuits. Her insights on the collaborative nature of the Austin improv scene versus the more competitive model in New York were fascinating. I also opened up about my own experiences with comedy, marketing, and finding purpose beyond just "getting famous." Valerie's perspective on using comedy as a hobby versus a profession resonated with me, as I continue to navigate my own path in the creative world. Overall, this conversation was a wonderful exploration of kindness, self-discovery, and the power of community - all through the lens of Valerie's inspiring story. I'm grateful to have had the chance to dive deeper into her life and creative passions, and I'm sure listeners will find her journey as inspiring as I do. Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Valerie Ward: http://www.instagram.com/valetoile Keywords:  Queer comedy LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

In this episode of Life in Bold, I sit down with the incredibly talented Liz Coin to talk about her one-woman show, Lizzie Sunshine 🌞. Liz shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the show, which explores her brother’s addiction struggles, and how creating this piece helped her embrace her inner artist 🎭.  We dive into the highs and lows of performing in New York City, including her sold-out show at The Pit and her upcoming performance at Caveat. Liz also talks about the power of social media, building personal connections, and her exciting plans to take Lizzie Sunshine to the Edinburgh Fringe in 2025 🎉. You won’t want to miss this conversation full of insight, heart, and humor! Thank you for tuning in! 🎙️ Don’t miss out on the latest episodes—hit Subscribe for new bold conversations every week 🏳️‍🌈 Life in Bold is hosted by NYC’s Ben Hawes, a musical comedian and podcaster. Life In Bold helps you embrace your dreams and take bold steps toward achieving them. 💬 What did you think of today’s show? I’d love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or drop a comment below to share your thoughts. 💬 Tell us your thoughts! Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram! 🔗 Follow & Connect: Life In Bold:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Ben Hawes:  INSTA: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TIK TOK: http://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod Liz Coin: http://www.instagram.com/lizcoin Keywords:  Queer comedy LGBTQ+ podcast New York Comedy Musical comedian Comedy interviews Visit our website at lifeinboldpod.com and thank you for the support! 🌟

Lauren Arnett is an amazing improviser and actor in NYC who performs with many improv groups and makes people laugh all across New York City. Originally from Michigan, she grew up in a church where the church scene became her social life. Quiet in shy in high school, she now takes stages all over NYC to show the world what she’s got— in this episode we talk about our queerness, religion and christianity, our church experiences, and of course, queer dating & sex scenes in movies!  THANK YOU for listening!! Subscribe here to get the latest!!   What are your thoughts on today's show?! DM the pod on Instagram or comment below to share what you feel. I'd love to know!    This podcast is hosted by New York City's Ben Hawes. Ben is a musical comedian and podcaster whose mission is to help folks see the value in their dreams, help them take action, and make it happen for themselves. You Can Find Life In Bold Here:  We post highlights, clips, and bonus content   Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lifeinboldpod  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeinboldpod  Subscribe on YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/@lifeinboldpod You Can Find Ben Hawes (Host) Here:   I post daily comedy videos and document my comedy & business life!  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/laughwithben Subscribe On YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/@laughwithben   You Can Find Lauren (Guest) Here:   I love when our listeners go and support our guests!   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Laurenjarnett  I hope you have a great day, an even better week, and don't forget to Live Your Life in Bold. -Ben Hawes Local Elevator by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1300012 Artist: http://incompetech.com/