Was It Chance?

USA Today bestselling author Serena Burdick is living proof that creative success doesn’t follow a straight line. In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Serena shares how her journey from aspiring actor to celebrated novelist came with plenty of unexpected twists—including returning to waiting tables in her 40s while raising kids and chasing her dream. With honesty and humor, she opens up about the realities of artistic life, the power of resilience, and the value of believing in your own story—especially when others don’t see it yet. We dive into Serena’s new book, A Promise to Arlette, and the fascinating real-life inspiration behind it—her grandmother’s connection to avant-garde photographer Man Ray and a long-lost nude photograph that sparked a fictional journey through postwar France and conservative 1950s America. Serena talks about balancing fiction with history, channeling her theatrical background into richly drawn characters, and navigating the emotional tightrope of writing stories that sometimes go to very dark places. This is a must-listen for anyone who's ever wanted to rewrite their own story. Connect with Serena Burdick: 📘 Buy A Promise to Arlette anywhere books are sold 🖋️ Follow Serena on Instagram: @serenaburdick 📚 Learn more at Zibby Media to purchase signed copies and support indie authors Connect with the Hosts & Show: 🎧 Follow Was It Chance on your favorite podcast platform 📱 Connect with us on ⁠TikTok⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ✨ More about Heather at her ⁠⁠website⁠⁠, ⁠⁠subscribe to her Substack⁠⁠, and follow her on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Your first creative dream doesn’t have to be your last Failure is part of the process—and can sometimes lead to unexpected wins Historical fiction is a powerful tool for preserving and imagining untold stories Creative careers often require privilege and sacrifice—acknowledge both Be open to feedback, but stay grounded in your artistic voice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a masterclass in following your gut, showing up fully, and creating your own path—even when it’s not the one you planned. Nick Rashad Burroughs joins us to share the wild and wonderful story of how a missed ride after school led to an accidental audition… and an entirely new life trajectory. From growing up in a deeply religious, sports-focused family in Alabama to starring on Broadway in Kinky Boots, Something Rotten, and Tina, Nick has lived a life powered by guts, grit, and creative risk. Nick opens up about the struggle to reconcile his artistic truth with his upbringing, the challenges of coming out, and what it meant to have his mother watch him perform in drag on Broadway. He also shares the deeply personal origin of his music career, his viral music video that Beyoncé reposted (!!!), and how he’s living in the center of a manifestation with his latest role in Goddess at The Public Theater. This conversation is packed with honesty, vulnerability, inspiration—and a whole lot of laughter. EPISODE TAKEAWAYS: Inspiration is a gift—don’t waste it. You can do it scared. Self-advocacy creates opportunities. Your unique voice and background are assets, not limitations. Fear doesn't go away—it just gets quieter when you're doing what you love. Connect with the Hosts & Show: 📩 Email us at ⁠⁠⁠wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠ 🎧 Follow Was It Chance on your favorite podcast platform 📱 Connect with us on ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ✨ More about Heather at her ⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠subscribe to her Substack⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠BlueSky⁠⁠⁠ 🎭 More about Alan via ⁠⁠⁠@theatre_podcast⁠⁠⁠ and check out ⁠⁠⁠The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Award-winning performer Lena Hall joins Heather and Alan for a wide-ranging and often hilarious conversation about discovering her true creative voice—literally and metaphorically. From her roots as a ballerina bred by artistic parents, to reinventing herself after vocal surgery, Lena shares how a mix of chance, grit, and gutsy choices helped her chart a bold path in musical theater, TV, and rock music. Whether she’s fronting a band, redefining her Broadway persona, or belting out Radiohead in her latest TV role, Lena proves that creative success comes from embracing the unexpected—and never losing your sense of play. You’ll hear about her journey through roles in Cats, Kinky Boots, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch, her stint on All My Children as a hooker-turned-potential-series-regular, and the life-changing audition that landed her a role opposite Jon Hamm in Your Friends and Neighbors. Lena opens up about perimenopause, social media pressures, creative burnout, and how she’s learned to stop taking rejection personally—well, mostly. Key Takeaways: Lena’s vocal transformation after tonsil surgery that unlocked a whole new range and sound Why she left ballet and the Broadway grind to find a truer, edgier artistic path Her surprising and circuitous road back to Broadway—and then into TV and film How taking bold, creative risks (like bringing her own amp to an audition) led to breakout roles The importance of having financial and creative buffers to survive the industry’s constant rejection How Lena navigates social media with a “learned skin,” not just a thick one Follow Lena: 📱 Instagram: @lenarockerhall 🎵 TikTok (or as Lena calls it, "ShitTok"): @lenarockerhall 📺 Watch Your Friends and Neighbors on AppleTV+ Connect with the Hosts & Show: 📩 Email us at ⁠⁠wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com⁠ 🎧 Follow Was It Chance on your favorite podcast platform 📱 Connect with us on ⁠TikTok⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ✨ More about Heather at her ⁠⁠website⁠⁠, ⁠subscribe to her Substack⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠BlueSky⁠⁠ 🎭 More about Alan via ⁠⁠@theatre_podcast⁠⁠ and check out ⁠⁠The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean to live gutsy? In this episode, we sit down with mindset coach Becky Mollenkamp, the powerhouse behind the Gutsy Boss brand. Becky’s journey from journalist to entrepreneur to feminist coach is full of brave pivots, hard-earned wisdom, and a whole lot of intentional unlearning. After the sudden loss of her brother, she started asking the big questions—and her life hasn’t been the same since. We talk about what it takes to break free from patriarchal conditioning, how people-pleasing sneaks into our lives and businesses, and why redefining success is an act of rebellion. Becky shares how she helps women-identified and nonbinary folks reclaim their agency, set boundaries without guilt, and build lives aligned with their values. If you’ve ever felt stuck in who you “should” be, this conversation will light something up in you. Connect with Becky: 🌐 Gutsy Boss Website 📬 Subscribe to her newsletter 📱 Follow Becky on Instagram Connect with the Hosts & Show: 📩 Email us at ⁠wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com 🎧 Follow Was It Chance on your favorite podcast platform 📱 Connect with us on TikTok and LinkedIn ✨ More about Heather at her ⁠website⁠, subscribe to her Substack⁠ and on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠, and ⁠BlueSky⁠ 🎭 More about Alan via ⁠@theatre_podcast⁠ and check out ⁠The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Grief can be a catalyst for transformation—Becky’s life changed profoundly after losing her brother. Unlearning patriarchal thinking is a powerful, ongoing process that requires self-awareness and community. People-pleasing often feels safe, but it limits our growth and authenticity. Success isn’t about external achievement—it’s about living in alignment with your values. Boundaries are a radical act of self-respect, not selfishness. Feminism isn’t just theory—it can be a daily practice in how we lead and live. Reinvention is possible at any stage of life and career. Coaching isn’t about fixing people—it’s about helping them access their own power. Vulnerability and honesty are business strengths, not weaknesses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you blend ancient wisdom with modern science? Meet Mei Lee, a powerhouse entrepreneur who retired from a 30-year career in finance to follow her passion for natural healing and skincare. Growing up in Hong Kong, Mei watched her father practice traditional Chinese medicine, instilling in her a deep respect for holistic wellness.  After years as an avid tennis player, the sun took a toll on her skin, leading her back to her roots. She founded Ageless Zen, merging herbal healing with cutting-edge research to create a skincare line that’s as effective as it is natural. But Mei didn’t stop there—she built a technology platform to help others launch their own skincare brands and launched the Ageless Zen Community Partnership to give back. In this episode, Mei shares the differences between Eastern and Western medicine, the power of persistence in entrepreneurship, and why integrity is non-negotiable. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about reinvention, resilience, and giving back. Connect with Mei & Ageless Zen: Ageless Zen Website – Explore and shop the products. Ageless Zen Community Partnership – Support an organization or become a partner. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our inbox by emailing wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com. Connect with us on TikTok and LinkedIn and help us grow those platforms! More about Heather via her website, subscribe to her Substack and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Key Episode Takeaways: Eastern medicine focuses on natural healing with fewer side effects, a philosophy Mei built Ageless Zen on. After 30 years in finance, Mei embraced a new passion—creating a skincare line rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and scientific research. She’s personally tested her products for five years, ensuring top quality and effectiveness. Entrepreneurship is a long game—don’t quit, and surround yourself with a supportive community. Integrity is everything. She’s committed to making sure her products actually work! Mei’s Circle of Giving Foundation and Ageless Zen Community Partnership support important causes like metastatic breast cancer awareness and community fundraising. Failure isn’t an end—it’s a business opportunity. Mei’s optimism helps her take risks and keep going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like you’re living a life that doesn’t quite fit? Don Mammone knows that feeling all too well. After years of thriving in the hospitality industry, Don took a leap of faith, leaving behind the “shoulds” and societal expectations to pursue photography, coaching, and a life lived authentically. Heather and Alan go deep in this heart-felt conversation with Don about their journey of self-discovery, navigating identity, and challenging the binary mindset. As a proud non-binary advocate, speaker, and brand new author of Different Doesn’t Mean Broken: Living Courageously Outside the Binary, Don shares what it means to embrace your truth, even when it scares the hell out of you. Don’s story is a reminder that being different isn’t a flaw—it’s a strength. Grab your copy of Different Doesn’t Mean Broken: Living Courageously Outside the Binary and learn more about Don’s work at www.donmammone.com. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our inbox by emailing wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com. Connect with us on TikTok and LinkedIn and help us grow those platforms! More about Heather via her ⁠website⁠, ⁠subscribe to her Substack⁠ and connect with her on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠, and ⁠BlueSky⁠. Listen to ⁠The Brave Files⁠ More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Authenticity Is a Superpower: Living as your true self isn’t just freeing—it’s transformational. Don’s journey shows that embracing who you are changes everything. Risk Isn’t Reckless: Real courage means owning your truth, even if it challenges the status quo. Ask the Awkward Questions: Don welcomes genuine questions about being non-binary—curiosity fosters understanding. Fail, Learn, Repeat: Don doesn’t like failure, but they love what it teaches. Each setback is a setup for growth. You’re Always in Control: Even when life feels out of control, you have the power to choose your path. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Originally aired Jan 30th, 2024, we are bringing this back because When the Tides Held the Moon is now available for (pre) order! Venessa Vida Kelley is a Washington, DC-based author, illustrator, and sequential artist. Her work focuses on magical realism, fantasy, and culturally diverse romance. Venessa has been featured alongside the works of such authors as Casey McQuiston, TJ Klune, Everina Maxwell, Sophie Gonzales, Becky Albertalli, Sarah Rees Brennan, Alexis Hall, Jennifer Weiner, and others, as well as the marketing campaign for Amazon Studio’s highly-anticipated movie adaptation, “Red White & Royal Blue.” Her graphic novel debut, MANU FACES THE MUSIC, is in development with Oni Press, with her first illustrated adult historical fiction novel WHEN THE TIDES HELD THE MOON set to debut with Erewhon Books in 2025.  Connect with Venessa on: Instagram or her website. And support her work via Patreon and Etsy. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our inbox by emailing wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com  More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Venessa dreamed of being an animator as a child and fell in love with sequential art Sequential artist is the fancy term for comic art One of the original viral “fan artists,” Venesssa never lost sight of her passion even when working in voiceover and marketing for The Federal Government When her day job got a little too heavy, Venessa would retreat to a novel for pleasure and create sketches from those works. A random share on Twitter turned viral and catapulted Venessa to the core of fandom love. Much of Venessa’s artwork is driven by the desire to get books she loves in front of a larger audience. She has always worked to support BIPOC and LGBTQ authors and help raise awareness for their work. Venessa’s art is mostly digital art because it’s fast and doesn’t take a lot of expensive resources but she begins with pencil and paper sketches. Eventually, it became impossible to have a day job and make art professionally. She chose her own graphic novel and we’re all so glad she did. Be the ladder - Venessa loves helping other artists to value themselves and fight for their fair share, especially in the face of AI art. We love Venessa’s approach to “failure” She believes in a “Bless your mistakes” approach to life. In the episode, we talk about emotional deficit - what it is and how to deal with it. There is NO wasted time - ever. All of Venessa’s past experiences are showing up in her own work and she’s wildly grateful for all of her experiences. It wasn’t until Venessa was in her 30s that she began to untangle her identity and embrace her Queer identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaclyn Goldis is a former estate planning attorney turned author and adventurer. After seven years practicing law in Chicago, Jaclyn left her career to travel the world with just a backpack, eventually settling in Israel to write full-time. Her fourth novel, The Safari, will be released in May '25, and her story is one of bold risks, creativity, and chasing dreams. Jaclyn always knew writing was her true passion. She describes leaving her legal career as both brave and inevitable, freeing herself from the weight of possessions and expectations. Traveling to places like South Africa, Bali, and Greece inspired her writing, and her creative process is deeply intuitive—she lets her stories guide her. Her first traditionally published book, When We Were Young, was written during her travels, though her heart lies in mystery and thriller genres, like her upcoming novel, The Safari. Jaclyn also shares how she found an agent, her relationship with failure, and the joy she finds in the creative process. Read Jaclyn Goldis’s books: “When We Were Young,” The Chateau,” “The Main Character,” and pre-order “The Safari.” Connect with Jaclyn on Instagram. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our inbox by emailing wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com  More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Key Episode Takeaways: Bold Choices Lead to Big Rewards: Jaclyn’s decision to leave her legal career and travel the world with just a backpack was a leap of faith that ultimately allowed her to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time author. Creativity Thrives on Freedom: Letting go of material possessions and societal expectations gave Jaclyn the mental and emotional space to focus on her writing and embrace her true calling. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination: Jaclyn’s writing process is intuitive and fluid, allowing her stories to unfold organically rather than being rigidly plotted. Failure is Part of the Process: It took Jaclyn 20 years to kick off her career as an author, but she views failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback, focusing on joy and small successes along the way. Travel as Inspiration: Jaclyn’s travels have deeply influenced her writing, with locations like South Africa and Bali serving as backdrops for her novels. Manifesting Success: Jaclyn emphasizes the importance of joy and intentionality in the creative process, whether it’s finding an agent or letting a story come to life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"There is enough space to go around - we can ALL show up and do the thing and be successful" - Jennifer Apple. Ever wonder what it's like to throw out the rulebook and chase your dreams full throttle? That's exactly what we're diving into on today's episode of Was It Chance with our amazing guest Jennifer Apple. From award-winning performances in "The Band's Visit" to launching the game-changing Empowered Artist Collective, Jennifer's all about keeping it real in the wild world of performing arts. She's that rare combo of crazy talented and totally genuine, and she's not afraid to color outside the lines to make things happen. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about everything from her earliest days as a child obsessed with singing to her clever (and slightly sneaky!) strategy for booking gigs. Whether you're a performer yourself or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story, you'll want to hear Jennifer's fresh take on artistic life, why there's room for everyone to shine, and how embracing the messy parts of life can lead to your biggest breakthroughs. Connect with Jennifer on her website jenniferapple.net, Instagram or TikTok Check out The Empowered Artist Collective Podcast  Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Being a working artist isn't just about talent—it's about being bold enough to create your own opportunities. Jennifer's secret weapon for booking gigs proves that thinking outside the box pays off! There's no such thing as failure, only learning experiences. Jennifer's approach: give yourself grace, stay curious, and remember that every "mess up" is just data for your next attempt. Success isn't a zero-sum game. As Jennifer puts it, there's plenty of room for everyone to shine in their own unique way. No need to elbow anyone out of the spotlight! Want to grow? Embrace the gray areas! Life isn't black and white, and some of the best opportunities come from being comfortable with uncertainty. Multi-passionate isn't a curse—it's a superpower. Jennifer shows how leaning into different interests (performing, teaching, entrepreneurship) can create a rich, sustainable artistic life. The magic happens in the mess. Jennifer's love for workshopping new plays and musicals reminds us that perfect isn't always better—sometimes the best creativity comes from being willing to get messy and play. True artistry comes from staying rooted in authenticity. Through her Empowered Artist Collective, Jennifer proves that vulnerability and truth-telling are just as important as technical skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’re in for a treat today as we chat with not one but two fantastic guests: Jen Ponton and Deborah Unger are incredibly talented performers who’ve built remarkable careers in theatre, film, and television. Their paths intertwined fifteen years ago during an old-school teleconference with a performance coach. The episode explores their individual journeys and the enduring power of their collaborative relationship.  Their upcoming show Maiden Mother Crone features their two solo shows: Jen's autobiographical solo show, Sugarcoated, and Deborah's deeply personal play, The Longer My Mother is Dead, the More I Like Her.  Jen and Deborah share their experiences navigating the challenges and triumphs of the entertainment industry, offering invaluable insights into building a career on your own terms. From Jen's powerful advocacy for body positivity and her work combating fatphobia to Deborah's evolution from musical comedy to critically acclaimed film and theater, this is a conversation brimming with inspiration and resilience. Learn how these two remarkable women have taken control of their narratives and built their own tables in a demanding industry.   Connect with Deborah and Jen to follow their incredible journey. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our inbox by emailing wasitchancepodcast@gmail.com  More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Key Episode Takeaways: Building Your Own Table: Instead of passively waiting for opportunities, Jen and Deborah actively created their own paths, Authentic Storytelling's Power: Both Sugarcoated and The Longer My Mother is Dead... demonstrate the profound impact of honest, vulnerable storytelling. Resilience and Overcoming Obstacles: The episode details the numerous challenges faced by both women, from navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry to confronting personal struggles and societal biases (like fatphobia). The Value of Collaboration and Mentorship: The long-standing relationship between Jen and Deborah illustrates the immense value of collaborative partnerships and mentorship. Body Positivity and Challenging Societal Norms: Jen's outspoken advocacy for body positivity and her fight against fatphobia in Hollywood provides an important platform for discussion. Artistic Evolution and Reinvention: Deborah's journey showcases the transformative power of artistic evolution and reinvention. The Unique Demands of Solo Performance: Both women discuss the unique creative, emotional, and logistical demands of creating and performing solo shows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Pepe Muñoz, the artist whose path from professional dancer to renowned fashion illustrator and now Broadway performer will leave you inspired. With a career marked by intuition and bold risks, Pepe has seamlessly merged his passions for movement and visual art. From collaborating with Céline Dion to gracing the stages of Paris Couture Fashion Week and Broadway's Moulin Rouge, Pepe's story is a testament to the power of embracing one's versatility and trusting the universe's plan. Connect with Pepe on Instagram and TikTok. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Key Episode Takeaways: Intuition guides purpose: Pepe's decisions, from quitting a stable job to pursue illustration to taking on new performance roles, have been led by a strong trust in his gut feelings. Versatility is strength: Rather than limiting himself to one field, Pepe has allowed his various skills in dance, illustration, and theater to fuel his creative journey. Hard work meets opportunity: While Pepe has certainly seized chance opportunities, he emphasizes that his success stems from a foundation of relentless hard work and dedication. Self-definition holds power: Pepe believes that the labels you choose for yourself carry greater significance than external measures of success. Openness allows growth: Even at the height of his Broadway success, Pepe remains open to the universe's next path and how his skills can continue to evolve. Support nurtures the soul: Pepe credits his husband with providing constant reminders of his worth, highlighting the importance of a strong support system in any creative endeavor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine having a clarity of purpose and drive to pursue your passions that allows you to achieve more before age 17 than many do in a lifetime. Welcome to the world of Maddie Price, a teenage theatrical powerhouse who's turning her creative vision into a Broadway-bound reality. From her early days as the Mayor of Munchkinland to becoming a playwright, producer, and founder of her own production company, Maddie's journey is a testament to the power of embracing your talents, taking bold action, and believing in the impossible. With her sights set on showcasing teen voices and creativity, Maddie is not just making waves in the theater world - she's creating a revolutionary new model for what's possible when young people are given the chance to lead. Get ready to be inspired by her story, practical advice, and reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a bit of serendipity, we can turn even our biggest dreams into reality, no matter what our age. Connect with Maddie on Instagram, TikTok See, "355" in February at 54 Below.  Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Key Episode Takeaways: Embrace your passion: For Maddie, her love of theater was clear from a young age. She encourages listeners to lean into their own passions, even if they seem lofty or challenging. The power of cold pitching: Maddie's a fan of reaching out to people and organizations she admires, even if it feels daunting. She believes there's little risk and potentially huge reward in putting yourself out there. Leverage available resources: As a teenager in today's digital age, Maddie knows that creativity and collaboration are more accessible than ever. She uses technology to work with her team and bring her vision to life. Failure is part of the journey: Maddie views setbacks and rejections as opportunities to learn and grow. She believes in facing challenges head-on and persevering, even when things get tough. The importance of community: Surrounding herself with like-minded, supportive people is crucial for Maddie. She's found valuable connections through her special school program and by seeking out other young creatives. Stay open to possibilities: While Maddie's focused on musical theater for now, she's also interested in exploring other creative outlets like books and screenplays. She advises listeners to remain open to where their passions might lead them. The power of teen voices: Maddie's work on "355 Revolution" showcases the talent and perspective of teenagers. She's proof that young people can create meaningful, impactful art when given the chance. Take calculated risks: From putting on a full musical production to networking with industry professionals, Maddie understands that taking risks is necessary for growth and success. Celebrate your wins: With her show headed to 54 Below and her production company thriving, Maddie knows how to acknowledge and enjoy her accomplishments along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welp, we made it through yet another year around the sun. Or the sun has made one more revolution around the earth? Nope, flat earthers, you wrong. Anyhoo, join us for our final episode of the year - discussing some of our favorite interview moments, and moments in general, from 2024. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Rowan Jetté Knox, the award-winning Canadian writer and human rights advocate who embodies the power of embracing change and living authentically. Rowan courageously shares his family's journey towards acceptance of both his middle child and wife's transgender identity in his bestselling memoir "Love Lives Here". This journey, marked by vulnerability and unconditional love, has normalized the existence of LGBTQ2S+ families and sparked international change. Rowan's advocacy extends beyond his personal narrative, confronting the stigma of mental illness and championing the rights of transgender youth. His work has earned him recognition such as the Order of Ottawa. Rowan's story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing truth and living authentically. He first started questioning his own gender while in therapy for deep trauma. Despite the challenges, Rowan has learned valuable lessons about self-worth, the importance of community, and the intentional risks necessary for growth. He reminds us that you don't have to transition to be Trans and encourages those questioning their gender to seek out Trans voices. Rowan's journey, including his own transition and non-monogamous relationships, is a powerful example of what it means to live a life true to oneself. Connect with Rowan on Instagram, Threads, or his website and grab a copy of his books Love Lives Here and One Sunny Afternoon. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales If you are struggling and need some support here are trusted resources. United States: The Trevor Project: A national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning young people. Available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting START to 678678. Trans Lifeline: A peer support service by trans people for trans and questioning folks. Call 877-565-8860. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Canada: Kids Help Phone: A 24/7 service providing support for youth. Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. Trans Lifeline Canada: A peer support service by trans people for trans and questioning folks. Call 1-877-330-6366. Canada Suicide Prevention Service: Available 24/7 at 1-833-456-4566. EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Rowan's Journey: In 2014 Rowan would have described his family as a Mom, Dad and three sons. Shortly thereafter their middle child came out as a Transgender girl (later, non-binary), and then less than two years after Rowan’s spouse came out as a Transgender woman. Consciousness of Truth: “We are more subconsciously aware of our truths than we think we are.” When Rowan’s middle child came out he was, at the time, a well-known “mommy blogger” and the post sharing the coming out story of his child went completely viral. There was a little hate but also a massive out pouring of love. Expanding Love: Rowan’s family adopted their middle child’s best friend at the age of 15 and beautifully extended their circle of love. It was much easier for Rowan to give love and support to his Trans family members than it was to give it to himself. Self-Worth: When the world constantly teaches you that you are NOT worthy of love, it’s nearly impossible to find yourself worthy. Rowan and his wife Zoè are in a Polycule relationship that began in 2022 and now they all live together, very happily, in Toronto. Important Reminders: Rowan wants to remind everyone that you do NOT have to transition to be Trans. If you’re questioning your gender start following some trans folks on social media listen to what they have to say and learn from the source. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Was it Chance, we're joined by Lyndsay Rush, the poet behind the viral Instagram account @maryoliversdrunkcousin. With her debut collection A Bit Much, Lyndsay has been making readers laugh and think about the big questions of life. From body image to aging to whether or not to have kids, Lyndsay tackles it all with her signature blend of humor, honesty, and a healthy dose of female empowerment. Tune in as we chat with Lyndsay about her journey from comedy writing to poetry, and how she's built a community of women who celebrate their true selves, weirdness and all. Connect with Lyndsay on Instagram, TikTok, or her website, and grab a copy of her book A Bit Much. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Episode Takeaways: The humorous origin of her username "Mary Oliver's Drunk Cousin" Lyndsay's non-traditional career path from comedy writing to copywriting to branding Her journey deconstructing from evangelical Christianity and the "rage" she experienced How Lyndsay uses humor and joy to tackle big topics like body image and aging The surprising story of publishers competing for her work after she went viral Lyndsay's advice: embracing your weirdness is key to building a loyal community The distinction between Lyndsay and her persona, "Mary Oliver's Drunk Cousin" Lyndsay's acceptance of failure as part of the creative process The humorous discussion about conspiracy theories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a delightful conversation with Janusz Domagala, the charming and talented baker from The Great British Baking Show and Crime Scene Kitchen. Janusz shares his inspiring journey from Poland to the UK, driven by a desire to improve his English and live openly as his authentic self. We dive into his natural passion for baking, which began as a therapeutic hobby with his mother. Janusz reveals the surprising way he ended up on The Great British Baking Show, the intense casting process, and the unique experience of competing during the COVID season. He shares candid insights about judges Paul and Prue, the lasting bonds with fellow contestants, and the whirlwind of opportunities that followed his time on the show. We also discuss his exciting experience on Crime Scene Kitchen, the importance of queer visibility, and his empowering approach to embracing challenges and failure. This episode is a heartwarming celebration of pursuing one's passions and living authentically. Connect with Janusz on Instagram, and TikTok and grab a copy of his book Baking With Pride. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Episode Takeaways: The power of pursuing opportunities for personal growth and self-expression. Baking as a form of therapy and creative expression. The intense process of getting cast on The Great British Baking Show. The unique experience of competing on a reality TV show during a pandemic. The importance of queer visibility and representation in media. Embracing failure as a crucial part of the learning and growth process. The value of a "why not try?!" approach to life's opportunities and challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"You can't be what you can't see.' This is the hard reality many kids face when they don't see themselves reflected in the stories they read. This week on Was it Chance, we're shining the spotlight on the entrepreneur on a mission to change that narrative. Meet Kaitlin Johnstone, the powerhouse behind Kind Cotton. What started as a frustration in Kaitlin's kindergarten classroom has blossomed into a movement to put diverse books into the hands of kids. Through her clothing brand, Kaitlin is not just selling t-shirts – she's sparking a more inclusive future. With refreshing honesty, Kaitlin shares the lessons learned along the way, from redefining what success means to her to reframing her approach to failure. Tune in to hear Kaitlin's story and discover how one person's passion can create a ripple effect of kindness and change that resonates far beyond what we can imagine. GET YOUR KIND COTTON GEAR! We chatted a lot about Human Design - Curious to know YOUR Human Design? Get more information here. Connect with Kaitlin and Kind Cotton on their website, Instagram, and TikTok Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales Episode Takeaways: From Teaching to Social Impact: Kaitlin's experience as a kindergarten teacher in Florida revealed the lack of access to diverse books for kids. This sparked the idea for Kind Cotton, a clothing brand that raises money to provide these much-needed books. Pivoting in the Face of Challenge: When COVID-19 hit, Kaitlin decided to focus on Kind Cotton full-time rather than return to an unhealthy teaching environment. This pivot allowed her to build the brand and its impact. The Power of Representation: Books play a crucial role in providing representation for kids. Kind Cotton's monthly book fairs in the community and different schools help ensure young readers see themselves in the stories they read. Redefining Success: Kaitlin's definition of success has evolved from selling one product a day to feeling good about the positive change she's creating in the world. Her goal now is to put a million books into the hands of kids. Kindness Rooted in Justice: Kaitlin shares her definition of kindness as being rooted in justice, equity, and openness to change. It's about holding nuanced empathy, not just being nice. Gratitude Shifts Our Perspective: Kaitlin opens up about her struggles with negative self-talk and how connecting with gratitude has helped her approach failure in a healthier way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a passion for social justice meets a gift for storytelling? You get Nikki Payne. By day, Nikki works as a civic anthropologist, making government services more accessible. But by night, she's a celebrated novelist, using her words to challenge the status quo and write Black women into the spotlight. Nikki's debut novel, Pride and Protest, has earned widespread acclaim, and she's joining us on Was It Chance to discuss how her diverse pursuits fuel her creativity. From her childhood love of documentaries to her current work in philosophy and fiction, Nikki is proof that embracing multiple passions can lead to something truly remarkable. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about the power of creativity, the importance of representation, and the journey of a woman who refuses to be limited by convention.   Grab both of Nikki’s books: Pride and Protest, Sex, Lies and Sensibilities  Checkout Nikki’s podcast Unbound. Connect with Nikki on Instagram or her website. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS The Power of Persistence: Nikki's story is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of rejection. Her novel went from being deemed a failure to finding national success, showing that potential can be found in work others may initially overlook. Diversity Drives Innovation: By placing Black women at the center of her stories, Nikki is challenging the lack of representation in classic literature and offering fresh perspectives. Her background in anthropology ensures diverse viewpoints enrich her characters and plots. Writing as Social Change: Nikki sees her work as a way to spark a movement and incite change. She's proof that fiction has the power to challenge the status quo and push for a more equitable world. The Financial Reality of Creative Pursuits: While Nikki's story is one of success, she's candid about the financial challenges of making a living as a writer. Her journey highlights the need for more sustainable models to support emerging authors, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Embracing Multi-Passionate Creativity: Nikki's work as both a civic anthropologist and novelist shows the value of embracing multiple passions. Her diverse pursuits fuel her creativity and offer unique lenses through which to view the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally released Feb 28, 2023 as episode 34. To listen to Lili's episode from Dec 2023 on The Theatre Podcast, click here. --- ORIGINAL NOTES --- Do you remember when our collective hearts broke watching “Connor's mom” breakdown in Dear Evan Hansen? Yeah, that was traumatic! And Lili Thomas does it every single night on stage as she performs the beautiful and devastating role of Cynthia Murphy for the North American touring company of Dear Evan Hansen. The child of two world-renowned classical musicians, Lili made her own path in the arts. She became a triple threat by training extensively in acting, singing, and dancing in addition to, of course, learning several instruments. She plays professionally on 6 different instruments. Lili recently completed the pre-Broadway run of Octet and is an acclaimed vocal coach, choreographer, director, and the hardest job of all, parent of two kids. She’s kind, funny and crazy talented! Follow Lili and learn more on Instagram, grab tickets to see Dear Evan Hansen here, and make sure to stick around to the end of the episode for a fun, dirty joke form Lili! Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_ vickeryandco on Instagram and Threads, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Being exposed to professional musicians helped Lili embrace chance as an entertainer. She randomly started singing with a live band at the age of 5 and people loved it. The thrill was real! Both of Lili’s parents are world-renowned musicians but they didn’t pressure her into playing music, which Lili considers a gift. Lili’s performing love is musical theater - that’s her creative home. She loves playing complex characters and embracing them fully which she does beautifully. It’s really hard to balance being a parent and needing daycare with auditioning (as a job) because it’s not a paying job but must be treated as a job. When she went back to theater it felt like breathing again. This is truly where she's meant to be. She has such a loving and supportive family who love seeing her pursue her dreams. Positivity and energy are the core of who Lili is and that’s counter-intuitive to the role she plays in Dear Evan Hansen. When Lili needs to decompress and get into creative a space she needs total quiet and solitude (just like our co-host, Heather!). The most creative minds are also the most curious ones. Self-taping has become really dangerous for people - it drives perfectionist behaviors and that’s just not possible. It sets unrealistic standards and puts undue pressure on actors (and kids!). Returning to the theater has been part of Lili’s journey toward loving herself and it’s magical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Heather and Alan as they welcome the inspiring Bret Shuford and Stephen Hanna, known as the Broadway Husbands, to the "Was it Chance?" podcast. This charismatic couple's love story began in the bright lights of New York's Broadway scene, where they met in 2007 while pursuing their passions for the performing arts. After falling in love and tying the knot in 2011, Bret and Stephen took a leap of faith in 2020, leaving the Big Apple behind and relocating to Houston to build a family of their own. Tune in as the Broadway Husbands open up about their journey to fatherhood, embracing their roles as gay parents, and helping others become better people, partners, and parents along the way. With their infectious energy and heartfelt honesty, Bret and Stephen are sure to inspire you to chase your dreams, no matter how big or challenging they may seem. Connect with Bret and Stephen on  Instagram, TikTok, and their Website  Join them for a LIVE Joy Chat on Instagram every Sunday at 8pm CST Watch the viral Fosse "taking out the trash" video! Episode Takeaways Bret and Stephen's story began in the unlikeliest of places: an AA meeting, followed by their first conversation on a Times Square subway platform. For Bret, the bright lights of Broadway had called him away from his small town, but the struggle to succeed was overwhelming. He realized his drinking had become a problem. Stephen, on the other hand, was living his dream and performing, but his drug and alcohol addiction threatened to derail everything he'd worked for. Both men had always dreamed of being fathers and had assumed they would adopt. But as life took them on different paths, they found themselves considering surrogacy. They bravely share their journey to parenthood in this episode. Through hard work and multiple income streams, Bret and Stephen have created a stable and loving home for their family. As influencers, they adore spreading joy and positivity – there's no room for negativity in their lives! "Moving to Texas was about reparenting myself and setting boundaries," Bret says. For him, this new chapter was a chance to rediscover himself. • Catch Bret and Stephen LIVE every Sunday at 8pm CST for their "Joy Chat" on Instagram. It's the perfect way to round out your weekend!  Stephen has a unique perspective on failure: "It's always fueled me." He believes in letting setbacks propel you forward.  Bret takes it a step further: "Be willing to fail, and fail publicly. Imperfection is how I've learned who I am and what I'm passionate about. That willingness to take risks, despite the fear, has defined my journey." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices