Overheard at Chica's Café

Our guest on this episode is the lively and entertaining Danny Mora. His energy and charisma fills the conversation, and we knew this was going to be a lively and entertaining episode. With Halloween here, we couldn't resist talking about ghosts and all things supernatural. But it wasn't all fun and games - we delved into the current state of the film and television industry, discussing its future and how technological advancements like AI could potentially impact actors' opportunities and finances. We also shared our own experiences in the industry, including working with the talented Emilio Rivera on a play that brought us together with many other actors who have become lifelong friends. Don't miss out on this enlightening and entertaining conversation with our always fantastic guest, Danny Mora. Daniel Edward Mora is an actor known for his work in the multiple Oscar-winning Disney film COCO, A RECURRING ROLE IN THE Peabody Award-winning FX Network series THE BRIDGE, and another regular part in the web series SIN VERGÜENZA, which earned him a nomination to the Imagen Award for best actor in a series. A native of Los Angeles who was raised in San Diego, Mora joined the Army after graduating from high school. After spending three years as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he studied business administration at San Diego State University. Rediscovering a love for acting which had been planted in elementary school and later rekindled in a community college, Mora moved to Los Angeles to try his luck in the movie business. And lucky he has been. In addition to the acclaimed COCO and THE BRIDGE, his movie and television credits include: FRESH OFF THE BOARD, AVENGE THE CROWS, 911, THE MENTALIST and FILLY BROWN, a movie favorite that screened at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. Along with his acting, Mora is a proud Army veteran who is currently an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Reserve.

Our guest for this month's episode is Matthew Carauddo, an acclaimed author of the thrilling fantasy series "Diamond Dragons." In this podcast, we delve into his experience in acting and storytelling, as well as his impressive stage combat skills. Tune in for an engaging conversation!   OVERVIEW: In addition to acting, writing, singing and voice-over, Matthew Carauddo has over 15 years of experience in fencing, staged combat and martial arts (Wing Chun Kung Fu, Jujitsu, Shotokan Karate, Jeet Kune Do, Tricking). Matthew is a licensed fencing instructor, approved and examined by the Federation Francaise D’Escrime (FFE). He has taught hundreds of group fencing classes and one-on-one lessons behind the mask throughout the California bay area at schools, academies of fencing, summer camps, and parks and recreational facilities. ORIGINS: Matthew began acting as a child when he was around 9 years old. He pursued on-stage performance throughout middle school, high school, and all throughout college. https://diamond-dragons.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@diamonddragonstale To see and hear some examples of Matthew's more recent acting, singing, and voice-over work, visit this link: https://youtube.com/channel/UC9dXWUhBtw0VI5nUOxl1JvA/videos

On this month's episode of the Overheard at Chica's Café podcast, we have a special guest, Inam Inamullah, an internationally acclaimed playwright. Our conversation delves into his works such as Khali Plate (Empty Plate) and Ramzan and Jannat, a hilarious adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Exciting news for fans: Ramzan and Jannat will be embarking on a tour starting in October 2024! As a renowned artist, we also take a deep dive into Inam's creative process when it comes to designing sets for his plays. Be sure to tune in to this lively and insightful episode. Inam, originally from South Asia, is a world-renowned artist, poet, and playwright. His work has earned international acclaim for its depth, creativity, and spiritual insight. Despite the challenges he faced early in life, including the hardships brought on by polio, Inam found solace in his art. Through resilience and a profound sense of creativity, he transformed his struggles into a source of beauty and inspiration. Inam's artistic journey is not confined to the canvas alone; his passion for the written word is evident in his prolific contributions to poetry and playwriting. His works reflect a deep appreciation for the ancient wisdom imparted by Sufi sages, which has unveiled the mysteries of the universe to him. A graduate of UCLA with an MBA, Inam also serves as a Life Coach, guiding others through their own journeys of transformation. His commitment to giving back to the community led him to found the Glitter of Hope Foundation, a local charity dedicated to supporting single mothers and orphans, primarily within the refugee community. Inam's latest work, "Whispers of The Flight," offers readers a profound journey that promises to illuminate the path to inner transformation. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a lover of allegorical tales, or someone on a quest for deeper understanding, this work ensures a transformative experience that resonates deeply with the soul. KHALI PLATE (EMPTY PLATE) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFg4hbN7Ks4&t=958s The actual play starts at 15:50 clock counter   RAMZAN AND JANNAT (Romeo and Juliet) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcCPdcv_gW4 The plat starts are 12:50 or so.   Amazon link: https://amzn.to/472w8tO - whispers of the flight Find out more about his artwork: https://www.inamgallery.com/ Whispers of Flight site: www.whispersoftheflight.com Inam’s life coaching site: www.elevatelife.guru

As an aspiring actor, studying the craft is an essential part of the journey. One aspect that actors often neglect is understanding the evolution of a character, from script to screen. We will explore the different approaches to acting and why stage acting is not the same as acting on screen. 1. "From Script to Screen: The Evolution of a Character" Every character begins on the pages of a script, but it takes a skilled actor to bring them to life. Understanding the backstory, motivations, and conflicts of a character is crucial in creating a believable and multi-dimensional performance. 2. "Breaking Down the Method: The Different Approaches to Acting" Actors have different methods and techniques when it comes to their craft. After I review the script I research what kind of work, interests and desires of the character. Whichever method you as an actor chooses, the key is to find a way to connect with the character and bring their truth to the role. 3. "Why Stage Acting is Not the Same as Acting on Screen" Stage acting and screen acting may seem similar, but they require different skill sets. On stage, an actor must project their voice & movements to reach a large audience, while on screen, subtlety is key. Also, stage actors have the luxury of a live audience, while screen actors must master the art of acting in front of a camera. 4. "The Dos and Don'ts of Auditioning: Tips from Industry Professionals" Auditions can be nerve-wracking, but they are an essential part of an actor's career. To help you ace your next audition, here are some tips from industry professionals. a. Arrive early and come prepared It's important to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your audition. This shows professionalism and gives you time to relax/mentally prepare yourself. Be sure to bring any required materials, and have your monologue (stage) or scene (film/TV) memorized. This is the same for Zoom & self-taping auditions, make sure your backdrop or room isn’t distracting while auditioning. Self-taping is another skill set. I find that having a reader with me as I self-tape is essential. Most of my bookings have come from having a fellow actor work with me. b. Dress appropriately Make sure your outfit is appropriate for the role you're auditioning for. Avoid wearing distracting clothing or accessories that could take away from your performance. c. Take direction well During an audition, the director or casting team may give you some direction on how to improve your performance. It's crucial to listen carefully and be open to their suggestions, as this shows that you are easy to work with and adaptable. Taking direction doesn’t mean your performance isn’t good but that they see something in you and want see what you can do with adjustment. d. Show confidence but don't be cocky Confidence is key in auditions, but there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Show off your skills without coming across as overconfident or arrogant. I’ve seen actors be overconfident where it projects as dismissive. Always be kind. e. Don't make excuses If something doesn't go as planned during your audition, don't make excuses or apologize excessively. Stay focused on your performance and adapt as best as you can. Take a deep breath to focus and center yourself. f. Be respectful of others Be respectful of those working behind the scenes, including casting directors, assistants, and other actors in the waiting room. Being kind and considerate goes a long way in making a good impression. g. Have fun! Auditions can be stressful, but remember to have fun with it! Enjoy the experience of performing and showcasing your talent. I have found in my auditions when I have fun with it, confidence shines through. Remember auditions are an opportunity to learn and grow as an actor. Keep these tips in mind and go into your auditions with confidence and a smile. Sonia Iris Lozada Blog Grieving Dreams Episode

The newest installment of Overheard at Chica's Café Podcast is an exciting interview with the multi-talented Jean Philippe Kaya. As a DJ, classical pianist, musician, and producer, Kaya has made waves in the music industry with his versatile skills and unique blend of genres. Listeners can expect to hear about his journey into the world of DJing, insights into his successful music career, and valuable advice for those looking to break into these creative fields. Don't miss this chance to gain insight from one of the most dynamic artists in the business. French native KAYA, born Jean-Philippe Kaya, skillfully blends his classical piano and composition background with a fervent passion for electronic music to push sonic boundaries. With roots from Cameroon and Congo, and having lived across three countries and two continents, the Los Angeles-based DJ/Producer draws from a rich tapestry of influences to craft his unique sound. KAYA discovered his love for DJing during the pandemic, rapidly gaining recognition for his signature sets blending nostalgic 90s piano house with high energy drops. He has performed across North America and Europe, sharing the stage with renowned artists like Deadmau5, MEDUZA, KREAM, Hugel, Joel Corry, Todd Edwards, A-Trak, and Habstrakt to name a few. His production prowess is showcased through his collaborations on prominent labels such as Ultra Records, Groove Bassment and Quincy Boy Records, garnering support from industry heavyweights including Pete Tong, SNBRN, Kaleena Zanders, Win and Woo, and Snakehips. KAYA’s music has resonated at some of the world’s biggest festivals including Coachella, EDC Las Vegas, Beyond Wonderland, and Electric Forest. With an upcoming mixtape on Phantom’s record label, Speed Dial, KAYA shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to hone his craft both in the studio and on stage, solidifying his place in the electronic music scene on fan at a time. https://kayamusique.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Kaya.musique/ https://www.instagram.com/kaya.musique/

Our special guest on the latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café is Jan Mullen, a seasoned music industry executive with an incredible wealth of experience. Her career spans from the alternative punk bands in the vibrant 80's music scene to collaborating with renowned jazz musicians. In this highly informative and fascinating episode, Jan shares her vast knowledge and insights into the ever-evolving music industry. Listen as she takes us through her personal journey in the world of music and life. If you've ever been curious about the inner workings of the music business, this is an episode you won't want to miss. A 25-year veteran of the music industry, Jan Mullen has gained an in-depth knowledge of today’s music business. Artist management of several Top10 performers of the 90’s and 2000’s, as well as production of major international tours and festivals, brings a wealth of experience invaluable to the multifaceted entertainment industry of today. The successful artist management of such iconic performers as Seal, Mariah Carey, Counting Crows, Christian Sands, Keyon Harrold, Wallace Roney to name a few. – all multiple-Grammy winning, multi-Platinum recording artists - built a substantial and intuitive understanding of the creative process, guiding it to its unique and highest potential. Prior to launching All-In Music Jan brought this extensive mainstream music industry experience and vision to the vital jazz community, serendipitously becoming director of The Side Door Jazz Club in Connecticut for its first four years, establishing the club as one of the top rated and respected jazz venues in the country. She is also the Artistic Director of the iconic Scullers Jazz Club in Boston, celebrating 30 years of presenting the best music and artists in the field. Born in the UK, Jan began her career in London and Paris, moving to NYC to work with Island Records. She served in artist promotion and marketing at Island/Def Jam and then Chrysalis Records NY offices, and as Artist Relations consultant for the Zoom Corporation and NAMM convention. Her natural affinity for artist management began as product manager for several years at Columbia Records in New York, her roster included many of the label's most successful artists of the 2000s. Throughout the course of her career, Jan has consistently championed creativity, bringing all the honed skills of management, artist relations, creative marketing and promotion strategies to work on the artists behalf. International tour production and executive producing of recordings and documentary films were a natural and valuable extension of a multifaceted career in the business. Jan's first love is that of nurturing and promoting artist’s talent and vision, believing in providing them with, and exposing them to, the optimum environment to support and inspire their unique creativity to thrive and excel. Proud and honored to represent such brilliantly talented artists, All-In Music, LLC is fully dedicated to that cause! Linkedin

On our latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, airing in April 2024, we are joined by Dominic Rambaran, a fellow actor whom I have known for many years. We delve into his experiences in the world of acting and discuss the humorous and challenging moments he has encountered on stage and in the industry. Tune in to gain insight into the journey of an actor's life.  Hailing from the East Coast of the United States, he was raised in a supportive family and attended Phillips Academy before pursuing higher education at Northwestern University and Carnegie Mellon University. With a strong passion for theater and the arts, he achieved success in regional productions, followed by a stint on Broadway. He then ventured overseas to work for various entertainment venues before settling in Los Angeles, where he has since appeared in television shows, films, and numerous commercials.

The episode went on for longer than expected, so I decided to add a bonus segment where we discuss the impact of AI on actors and writers, as well as concerns about AI during the strikes.

This month's special guest on Overheard at Chica's Café is entertainment lawyer Mark Pearson. Although this episode may be longer than others, it is packed with fascinating discussions. We delve into the legalities and requirements for success in the music, film, and entertainment industries. AI and its impact on creative property also takes center stage in our conversation. If you're interested in learning about thriving in the constantly evolving entertainment world, this episode is a must-listen. And as a bonus, we go into further depth on the topic of AI due to the extended length of this episode in a separate episode. Mark A. Pearson is an attorney at ARC Law Group, where he advises creative, talented and entrepreneurial clients on legal issues in the entertainment industry. Mark considers himself lucky to work with Oscar nominated filmmakers, Grammy award recipients, Emmy winning talent, and lot of clients he acknowledges are, “far more talented than I am.” In another life, Mark spent a decade as television producer, which he says provides a unique perspective on the needs of his creative clients. As he explains, “I thrive on being a small part of helping creatives achieve their goals. My work is very, very rewarding.” When not working with his clients, Mark advocates for the Recording Academy and serves on the Board of Governors for the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Emmy® Award) where he recently received the Governor’s Citation for his service to the Academy. You can reach Mark Pearson on his website: http://www.arclg.com/

Join us in celebrating the beginning of a new year with our special guest, Sound Designer and Composer Jane Shaw. We delve into her journey into the world of sound design for theater, and explore her impressive list of credits. Our conversation is full of fun anecdotes about her career, as well as her hobbies outside of work. As one of the founding members of TSDCA (Theatrical Sound Design Composer Association), she has a wealth of knowledge about the history and current state of sound design in the theater world. So, if you're interested in learning more about this field, this episode is a must-listen! "I love supporting story and emotion thru sound and music. I am endlessly inspired by my directors, fellow designers, actors, singers, musicians, as well as the messy, wonderful, dirty, haunting, and tormented manmade and natural world that surrounds us."   Jane Shaw—Sound Designer & Composer Recent: Little Women (Seattle Rep, Milwaukee Rep), A Christmas Carol (Guthrie, composer), The Art of Burning (Huntington, Hartford Stage), The Wanderers (Roundabout, The Old Globe), The Railway Children (Northern Stage, music & lyrics with Mark Hartman), and The Engagement Party (The Geffen, Hartford Stage). New York: Playwrights Horizons, Manhattan Theatre Club, Theatre for a New Audience, National Black Theatre, Rattlestick, The Women's Project, Repertorio Español, New York Theatre Workshop, and over thirty productions with the Mint. Regional: The Alley, Shakespeare Theatre Company (DC), ACT (San Francisco), American Repertory Theater, Cleveland Play House, The Old Globe, Mark Taper Forum, Two River Theater, Cincinnati Playhouse, Milwaukee Rep, Hudson Valley Shakespeare Theater, Arena Stage, Asolo Rep, Dorset Theatre Festival, Denver Center, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Recognition: Drama Desk, Connecticut Critics Circle, Henry Award, Bessie Award, Premios ACE 2012, NEA/TCG Career Development Grant, Meet the Composer Grant, and several Lortel nominations. Member: USA 829, TSDCA (Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association). Ms. Shaw is a graduate of Harvard University and the Yale School of Drama, and hails from Lawrence, Kansas.  https://www.janeshaw.com/  

Happy New Year to all! As the year comes to an end, I want to wish everyone an amazing New Year filled with love, joy, prosperity, and most importantly, good health. We often take our health for granted, but it truly is the foundation for enjoying life's many blessings. Overheard at Chica's Café launched in July of 2022 as a way to bring some lightheartedness back into our lives after three years of pandemic struggles. In the upcoming year, we plan on adding more interviews at the suggestion of one of our listeners. These interviews will feature individuals from all areas of the entertainment industry, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their journeys. We've also discussed important topics such as the writers' and actors' strike in several episodes this year. Sadly, our sister podcast, Chica and the Man, came to an end in September due to our busy schedules. It was a bittersweet goodbye since my co-host Alex is a dear friend of mine.  Overheard at Chica's Café is all about my friends, and I can't wait to introduce you to more of them. And not just my friends - I'll also be featuring associates I have worked with in the past. This will not only be entertaining but also educational as you'll get insight into what it takes to be in these positions in the entertainment industry. So, stay tuned for more episodes where friends meet at Chica's Café. This year we had amazing friends visit the café and I want to thank the following guests. Che Rae Adams – Let’s Talk Theater – Artistic Director of PlayPen in Philadelphia. Che’Rae has been a longtime friend. Kelly Keefe – Multi-Disciplinary Artist – Author, Musician and founder of Heartspace.co a mindfulness platform. Steve Walker – Theatrical Agent – Connor Ankrum & Assoc. in Los Angeles Marabina Jaimes – Actor, Voiceover Artist & Producer and I got signed to my voiceover agents DDO LA. because she helped me with my demo tape. I’m very grateful. Jane Witzenburg – Musician and Music teacher Doreen Calderon – Actor, Fatal Attraction Kristi Schultz – Theatre Maker, Director & Educator Norma Maldonado - Actor Denise Sanchez – Actor, Bosch Legacy – I play her mom on the Bosch Legacy TV Series. The links to the episodes are on our website:  https://overheardatchicascafe.com/chicas-cafe-podcast/ Thank you and many blessings and Happy New Year.

This month on Overheard at Chica’s Café, we welcome Che'Rae Adams. Che’Rae is the Artistic Director of PlayPen in Philadelphia and the founding director of LA Writer’s Center. We discuss the current state of theater after the pandemic and what’s to come for this creative community. Che’Rae gives us an insight into her journey as a full-time artist; from an actor, to director, dramaturge, and now Artistic Director. Listen in to hear her words of wisdom about the future of theater. Che’Rae has been the Producing Artistic Director of the LA Writers Center since 2006 where she develops new work with local writers. She was the Director of Operations and Programming for the Moss Theater in Santa Monica for seven years and has been the Development Executive for Playhouse Pictures Studios, Co-Artistic Director of the Road Theatre Company, and Managing Producer for the LA Women’s Theatre Festival. She began her career as the Assistant to the Staff Producer at The Mark Taper Forum where she worked on the writing workshop of the Pulitzer Prize winning Angels in America, Part II: Perestroika. As you can imagine, this was like a master class in new play development for her. Bitten by the new play bug, she went on to do other projects for the Taper that supported playwrights such as coordinating the Taper Lab Series and Mentor Playwright’s Series. There she worked with writers such as Luis Alfaro, Anthony Clarvoe, Han Ong, Oliver Mayer, Ellen McLaughlin, Alice Tuan and Mac Wellman. She has a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, College Conservatory of Music (CCM) and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from California State University, Northridge. For almost two decades, she has produced the Directors Lab West which takes place at the Pasadena Playhouse annually. Che’Rae has developed and directed the West Coast premiere productions of several new plays including plays by Lee Blessing, Ken Hanes, Tim Toyoma, Patricia Cardosa, John DiFusco, Jon Bastian, and Abi Morgan. She has also provided direction and/or dramaturgy for productions with Cincinnati Opera Outreach, Disney/ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop, Highways Performance Space, and Troupe Vertigo at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre. She has worked with prominent performers such as Tonya Pinkins, Lynn Redgrave, Kim Fields, and Carlos Alazraqui; as well as award winning directors and choreographers such as Vincent Paterson, Tom Hulce, Jane Jones, Bonnie Story, Kitty McNamee, and Tina Kronis; and distinguished designers such as Sara Clement, Cricket S. Myers, and Ming Cho Lee. As a producer for Directors Lab West she has curated close to two decades of programming (workshops, panels, and master classes) at the Pasadena Playhouse. This annual event hosts fifty international midcareer directors free of charge. Highlights include Vincent Paterson, Moises Kaufman, Jason Alexander, Martin Benson, Marc Masterson, Todd London, Sheldon Epps, George Furth, Anne Cattaneo, Des McAnuff, Jessica Kubzansky, Chay Yew, Jack O’Brien and Bill Rausch. Che’Rae is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She spent the last two years of the pandemic producing diverse online programming with HowlRound TV in response to the social inequity taking place in our society. Recently, she curated Breathe: A BIPOC Reading Series in response to George Floyd’s murder; Home: Asian Voices Reading Series to amplify Asian-American stories; and The Voices of Afghanistan project where monologues were constructed from interviews with Afghan artists in hiding. Check out her previous interview on the podcast. LA Writers Center PlayPen in Philadelphia, PA Info video on PlayPen on YouTube

My life and acting updates. It's been a few months since my last post, mainly due to the writer's and actor's strike. Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are ongoing, but I'm grateful for the updates each day. In the meantime, I've been attending many commercial auditions in person and through self-tapes. Although I haven't booked any of them yet, being put on avail several times in the last month tells me that I'm headed in the right direction. As a matter of fact, I have another call-back on Monday Oct 30th so let's hope for the best. There have been several changes recently as well. For one thing, I got signed by DDO Agency for voiceover, thanks to my friend Marabina Jaimes who helped me put together my voiceover demo. Last week, I had an audition for dubbing animation which was pretty exciting. Unfortunately, Chica and the Man Podcast aired its last episode on Sept 30th of this year. Working with Alex Greenwood was great fun, but our busy schedules prevented us from continuing further. Nevertheless, we still keep in touch and remain good friends. Check out the blog. Currently, I'm working on updating my YouTube channels as they're overdue for new content. This year has witnessed both loss and gain, but it's always important to be thankful for what we have regardless of life's circumstances. Join me in celebrating life and all its blessings.  

This month, join us at Overheard at Chica's Café as we welcome Kelly Keefe to the show. We'll have a great time as we share stories about the lessons we've learned through entertainment and life. She'll discuss her music releases, books, and how she developed Heartspace.co through mindfulness. Listen in for helpful hints from the entertainment industry and learn how to find success in your artistic endeavors. Kelly Keefe is a multi-disciplinary artist, including comedy, music, writing, and more. As a wordsmith, best-selling author, innovative leader, empowerment guide, and Reiki teacher and the founder of The Heartspace.co established in 2016 helping individuals and groups elevate into states of thriving. She works deeply with the Divine Feminine energy to endlessly create uplifting experiences, creations, and teachings. Her music is a multi-dimensional experience created intending to expose and elevate the different facets of herself, and as a reflection - of everyone. Kelly is a world traveler serving, performing, and creating as needed and desired. Ready to thrive and live alive? Welcome to The Heartspace. Instagram: @iamkellykeefe Heartspace.co TheKellyKeefe

In this month's episode, I'm joined by Steve Walker, a theatrical agent. We talk about what it takes to be a successful actor, from preparing for auditions, marketing oneself and honing one's skills. Listen in as Steve gives us a crash course on the responsibilities of an agent and the things actors should focus on. Steve Walker has been a talent agent for 17 years with Connor Ankrum & Associates in Los Angeles. He holds a Master's Degree in Administration from New York University and used to oversee the daily operations of multiple small theater companies before relocating to the West Coast. With a deep-rooted admiration for actors, Steve values the effort they put into preparing for auditions.

This month we welcomed Marabina Jaimes, an amazing fellow actor. Our conversation was so lively that we kept interrupting each other! We touched on the SAG-AFTRA Actor's strike, a labor dispute concerning television and film. While it's still permitted to make commercials and do dubbing, many unions are supporting the writers and actors faced with the stalemate. Marabina has won numerous awards for her diverse talents. Sonia mentions the movie she appeared in alongside Bob Odenkirk—'Life Upside Down'. Tune into this fun and informative episode. Stage, Film, and Television Performer, Voice Talent, Director, and Producer. Best known as "Mara" the Emmy Award Winning Host of PBS "Storytime", Carmen in Klasky-Csupo's "Santo Bugito" (CBS), and Principal subject in the documentary "Now En Espanol" (PBS).   A multiple award-winning producer, she adds a Telly and Omni Award for Co-Hosting/ Co-Producing @TheTrendTalkShow, and just won "Best TV Pilot" for Renee Vaca's "Inland Empire" at the Mexican American Film Fest.   Hispanic Lifestyle Magazine named her a "Latina of Influence" and she is the Lead Bilingual Voice Over Coach at www.AcademiaDeLaVoz.com. Recent credits include Bosch Legacy, High Heat, The Patient's of Dr. Garcia, and This Fool. Marabina Jaimes' website. Marabina Instagram. Life Upside Down with Bob Odenkirk.

This month's episode is with musician, songwriter and music teacher Jane Witzenburg. We discuss her journey into acting and music and how she progressed during difficult times. Her band Summercatz has performed throughout the Los Angeles area. Jane is currently teaching privately and at in the Los Angeles Unified School District. http://summerlinmusicstudio.com Summercatz Band website Butterfly Video Insane Song Video

In this episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, Alex Greenwood shares an intriguing story about his writing journey and his encounter with a producer who requested him to write a treatment. Alex delves into the challenges and excitement of the process, providing valuable insights for aspiring writers. Throughout the episode, Alex and his previous co-host on the podcast, Chica and the Man, share their signature humor, resulting in a lighthearted and entertaining conversation. Join them as they laugh their way through this captivating episode, showcasing their strong friendship and passion for storytelling. J. Alexander Greenwood is a prolific author celebrated for his John Pilate Mystery Series and the Western novel "Big Cabin and Dispatches from the West," co-authored with the late Robert E. Trevathan. Alex's notable nonfiction includes "The Podcast Option" and "Kickstarter Success Secrets." He has produced the Mysterious Goings On podcast since 2016 and hosts the PR After Hours podcast. He has also contributed to “Chica and the Man” and “Going to Killing City,” a true crime show. After fourteen years at the helm of his Kansas City PR agency, in 2024, he accepted a leadership position at a major university. To learn more about his work, visit jalexandergreenwood.com. His latest book is: Pilate's Faith: Book Eight in the John Pilate Mystery Series

On this month's episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, I have the pleasure of interviewing Doreen Calderon, a fellow actor and long-time friend of mine. We've shared the stage together in a musical, and right now you can catch her in Fatal Attraction on Paramount+. Our conversation covers her experiences as an actress and how she helps other actors develop their skills. Doreen Calderon is an American television, film and theater actress. She can be seen in the recurring role of "Maureen Walker" in Fatal Attraction (Paramount+). In 2022, she played!"Raquel Torres” in the Oscar nominated Live Action Short, Please Hold. Recent TV credits include White House Plumbers (HBO), Riverdale (CW), Loot (AppleTV), and Call Me Kat (FOX). Doreen has been a core performing member of the nation's longest running Asian-American improv-comedy troupe, Cold Tofu, since 2017. She is also a Certified Impact Catalyst (coach), and a professional Dream Interpreter.   imdb.me/DoreenCalderon IG: @doreen_calderon IG: @the.recognized.actor Youtube Channel: @DoreenCalderon TheRecognizedActor.com cellardoordreams.com/

In today's episode we have Kristi Schultz, a theatre maker, director and educator. We discuss her journey from college to New York where she worked at a strip house. Don't get too excited she wasn't stripping. Her stories from that time are entertaining and are the premise of her solo show Operation Dollhouse. We discuss how she got started in Los Angeles. Join in to this interesting and might I say, educational episode of life in the dollhouse. Kristi Schultz is a hyphenate Theatre maker and Teaching Artist using interdisciplinary movement-driven performance practices to reinvent classics, adapt literature, and devise original work. Kristi is on the Theatre Faculty at Marlborough School in Los Angeles and Artistic Director of the Marlborough Ensemble Theatre.  Kristi developed the Musical Theater and Dance Program at New Roads School. Her productions of IN THE HEIGHTS and CHICAGO, received several Jerry Herman Award nominations including Best Production. She won the award for Best Staging & Choreography for IN THE HEIGHTS. In the years under her guidance, the New Roads Dance program grew exponentially. At New Roads, she was an Artistic Producer for the Moss Theater, producing guest productions and developing guest artist partnerships. She also implemented a workshop lab for Performance Activism. She has been a guest faculty member at the Arkansas Arts Center Children's Theatre, Bluepalm Arts, Rembiko Edinburgh Project, and CalArts Interim Project teaching acting, movement, and composition, and leading professional development for Faculty, as well as guest Directing.  From 2006 to 2010, she was Producing Artistic Director of the award-winning LA company, Zoo District, helming their 3 year residence at [Inside] the Ford as part of the Ensemble Theatre Collective. At the Ford, she directed a critically acclaimed production of Ionesco's THE SUBMISSION and THE FUTURE IS IN EGGS, produced and performed in THE DEFENDERS in Los Angeles and San Francisco, the show garnered 5 Garland Award Honorable Mentions. For Zoo District, she received grants from the Doris Duke Foundation, Network of Ensemble Theatres, Flintridge Foundation, and LA County Arts Commission. At the Ford, she curated and presented original works in progress in SHOT IN THE DARK and JOUR DE BOSSE CABARET. She was commissioned by Padua Playwrights to direct the World Premiere of Murray Mednick's play, DESTRUCTION OF THE 4th WORLD. Currently, she is dedicated to championing new voices with several projects on deck. As Covid struck in 2020, she was directing the premiere of FLESH by Ash Nichols at INKFest at the Broadwater, and her last live performance was a workshop of THE INCIDENT at MeetCuteLA.  She is working on her own solo performance piece, OPERATION DOLLHOUSE. She has been a Company Member and Festival Producer for SON OF SEMELE ENSEMBLE, continuing to produce original work for the Quick Creation Festival throughout COVID in a virtual format.  She could also be seen performing with the Grand Guignolers. She is an Associate Producer for the SSDC Director's Lab West 2023. Other work in New York incudes Third Rail Dance in SPUN, Director at New York's Theatre Studio, Inc., Choreographer for Yale Drama Cabaret's ROCKY HORROR. She spent many years as a musical theatre performer and dance captain, making special appearances as a singer/entertainer at a variety of New York and Los Angeles corporate events, industrials, and fundraisers, including The Drama League's annual Broadway Bash. An alumna of Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama, the British American Drama Academy, SITI Company Intensives, Frantic Assembly Train, and the SDC Director's Lab West, she is a member of AEA, TCG, and the Network of Ensemble Theatres.    Theatre Maker, Director, Educator www.kristischultz.com @schultzie56