With a fiery passion for what she does it’s easy to see why Caitlynne Medrek has had such success as an actor and performer. At an early age she knew a life in the performing arts was her destiny and she has never wavered from that revelation. Her career has brought her from stage performing in Billy Elliot and Pinkalicious, to voice work in Total Drama Island and Dragon Ball, to digital series’ Clutch and Out With Dad, to television roles in Fargo and Hell On Wheels. She’s a highly sought-after talent who lives to perform and spread her positive vibes around the industry. She also has a performance art business called YYC Princess where she and other actors bring joy to children by performing as their favorite princess characters. Check out her website to see if she could come perform for you at www.yycprincess.com. This episode is available to listen to on iTunes and to watch on youtube. Both link can be found at doingitpod.ca.

2020 ForShadow Productions

Hosted and edited by Will Conlon Theme composed by Adrian Ellis Animations by Will Conlon

Visit the DOING IT Podcast website at doingitpod.ca

Facebook: www.facebook/com/doingitpod Twitter: @doingitpod Instagram: _doingitpodcast_

Email: doingitpod@gmail.com

Thanks for your support!

Cody Broadway’s passion and talent for film-making is derived from his deep seeded need to tell stories that matter. Which is why he chose to tailor his unique cinematic style with journalism and carve out a career in news media. Influenced and inspired by his own personal experiences, he reports on the things that matter with a cinematic feel. He has won multiple Emmys, 3 regional Edward R. Murrow awards and his documentaries have screened in Oscar-qualifying festivals such as Cannes in France. He now creates content for NBC LX, an online documentary-style news outlet owned by NBC Universal aimed at bringing important news items to consumers utilizing Cody’s unique cinematic storytelling technique. Not bad for a guy who thought his life was going in an entirely different direction. LISTEN or WATCH our podtalk and check out www.codybroadway.com to learn more about him. Also check out his reports on NBCLX at www.LX.com .

2020 ForShadow Productions

Hosted and edited by Will Conlon Theme composed by Adrian Ellis Animations by Will Conlon

Visit the DOING IT Podcast website at doingitpod.ca

Facebook: www.facebook/com/doingitpod Twitter: @doingitpod Instagram: _doingitpodcast_

Email: doingitpod@gmail.com

Thanks for your support!

On June 9, 2020, Antonio Cayonne, a good friend, fellow actor and writer posted a video to Instagram about how people can educate themselves on injustice and the horrific effects racism has had on the black community.

He has generously allowed me to share it as an episode.

Listen. Watch. Do the work.

Follow Antonio Cayonne:

Instagram: antoniocayonne

Twitter: @cayonne

Also follow:

Janaya Future Khan @janayathefuture

Kendrick Simpson @kendrick38

Patrisse Cullors-Brignac @osopepatrisse

Donate:

Black Lives Matter www.blacklivesmatter.com

Black Legal Action Centre www.blacklegalactioncentre.ca

Black Women In Motion www.blackwomenonmotion.ca

Black Health Alliance www.blackhealthalliance.ca

Canadian Anti-Racism Network www.stopracism.ca

Across Boundries www.acrossboundries.ca

Black Business And Professional Association www.bbpa.org

Black Liberation Collective www.blcryerson.com

Federation Of Black Canadians www.fbcfcn.ca

Black Youth Helpline www.blackyouth.ca

Harriet Tubman Community Organization www.tubmancommunity.org

2020 ForShadow Productions

Edited by Will Conlon

Visit the DOING IT Podcast website at doingitpod.ca

Also on FACEBOOK at www.facebook/com/doingitpod

Twitter: @doingitpod

Instagram: _doingitpodcast_

Email: doingitpod@gmail.com

Wayne Turmel has done it all. He’s a former Stand Up Comedian with 20 years of laughs under his hat. He’s an entrepreneur who’s brought training secrets and workplace strategies to numerous companies and is now the author of several books including The Count Of The Sahara, Acre’s Bastards, Acre’s Orphans and the upcoming Johnny Lycan and the Anubis Disk. He’s a man of great humour with a tenacious work ethic and endless creativity. The lessons he’s learned as a performer and writer are priceless and he passes those on in our podtalk. Plus he’s got stories. Good ones. Check out his website www.wayneturmel.com. LISTEN to our talk on iTunes. Or you can WATCH our chat at doingitpod.com or on YouTube (posted shortly).

2020 ForShadow Productions

Hosted and edited by Will Conlon Theme composed by Adrian Ellis Animations by Will Conlon

 Visit the DOING IT Podcast website at doingitpod.ca

 Facebook: www.facebook/com/doingitpod Twitter: @doingitpod Instagram: _doingitpodcast_

 Email: doingitpod@gmail.com

 Thanks for your support!

Nikki Payne climbed to the top of the comedy highlands very quickly. She’s sharp, short and has more energy than a monster drink addict. In addition to countless live stand up performances, on stages from coast to coast, she’s appeared on CTV’s Comedy Now!, the Halifax Comedy Festival and Just For Laughs. She’s also racked up numerous television appearances such as CBC’s The Debators and Comedy Inc. Originally from Nova Scotia, she’s trail blazed her way around the world leaving audiences in puddles on the floor still gasping for air after the onslaught of laughs they’ve gotten from her Tasmanian devil style comedy. She’s also a hell of a painter. Check out our podtalk both in audio and new EXTENDED video format which can be both seen and heard HERE: https://youtu.be/IJxFKpsrOD0

Lisa Jakub is one of those people that we all look at and say, “She’s got it all figured out,” even though she would argue that fact. Her journey of self-discovery truly began after she decided to leave the Hollywood spotlight where she starred in such movies as Mrs. Doubtfire and Independence Day to focus on who she is and what she wants. Now, after discovering her true passion as a writer, she has released two books. The first, You Look Like That Girl: A Child Actor Stops Pretending and Finally Grows Up which covers her life as an actress and her decision to leave that life behind, and her second, Not Just Me: Anxiety, Depression, and Learning to Embrace Your Weird in which she welcomes us to explore intimate details of her heart and mind to help better understand those who deal with anxiety, depression and all the taboos that surround the subject. We also discuss the events of Charlottesville, Virginia where she has lived with her husband for 16 years and was front and centre during the recent terror that occurred there. While her story continues to unfold, she finds solace in being open and honest about who she is and expressing that unapologetically. While she is a multi talented person, her greatest gift is the unconditional love she sends out to the world through her work and life well lived. Check out our pod talk and also her books and website at the links below…

https://lisajakub.net/

https://www.amazon.ca/Not-Just-Me-depression-learning-ebook/dp/B072MNGQPX/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504077044&sr=8-1&keywords=lisa+jakub

https://www.amazon.com/Not-Just-Me-depression-learning/dp/1548088080

Dave Martin is celebrating two decades of comedy and counting. Starting his career as a stand up comic in the nineties, he’s toured across Canada from coast to coast performing on countless stages as well as television and radio. After only a few years in the business he received his own televised one hour comedy show on CTV and The Comedy Network. His show "Anything Goes with Dave Martin & Darren Frost" on SIRIUS/XM Radio was nominated for 2 Canadian Comedy Awards for Best Radio Program and he continues to produce new ventures for himself as well as touring throughout Canada. Check out his website www.davemartinworld.com and listen to part two of our podtalk!

Dave Martin is celebrating two decades of comedy and counting. Starting his career as a stand up comic in the nineties, he’s toured across Canada from coast to coast performing on countless stages as well as television and radio. After only a few years in the business he received his own televised one hour comedy show on CTV and The Comedy Network. His show "Anything Goes with Dave Martin & Darren Frost" on SIRIUS/XM Radio was nominated for 2 Canadian Comedy Awards for Best Radio Program and he continues to produce new ventures for himself as well as touring throughout Canada. Check out his website www.davemartinworld.com and listen to part one of our podtalk!

Michael Kaplan is young, handsome, smart, talented and funny. God I hate him. I kid, of course. He’s been an actor since he was 9 years old and landed is first television role at the age of 17. Since then he has worked on several projects including Disney’s “Backstage” and the upcoming Hallmark Christmas movie “Journey Back To Christmas” which airs Nov 27. He’s an incredibly intuitive actor who dives into his work with an enthusiasm that leads to deep, authentic and emotional characters. He’s a genuinely sweet guy with a big heart and one of my favorite people. Check out our great podtalk!

Matt Nadeau is a funny dude. Very funny. For the last 2 years he has been a part of Sunday Night Live, a weekly sketch comedy show performed every Sunday at The Comedy Bar in Toronto. He writes and performs on the show as well as contributing to several other sketch comedy teams. He’s a mix of the gentleman, the party animal and the odd guy who stares at you uncomfortably from a corner. But mostly Matt is a ridiculously talented, nice guy who has a real gift for creating characters that seem to flow from a bottomless well of creativity and hilarity. Awesome chat we had. Check him out at Sunday Night Live before he is scooped up for Saturday Night…

Originally from Lyon, France, Jean-Christophe Castell, or JC as he likes to be called, moved to Canada years ago to pursue his passion for acting. Upon arrival, he fell in love with both the performing arts and the country. His experiences with the immigration process offer a unique perspective on the complications of having a career in entertainment while trying to become a permanent Canadian resident.  He is driven, persistent, introspective and one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. He demonstrates what it’s like to go for what you want in life and meet the challenges head on without fear. Great podtalk. Check it out!

Scotty James is all about dedication. He’s an incredibly talented musician who continually pushes his own boundaries to create the music and the life he wants. He’s known for going door to door serenading anyone who will listen to him play. That’s pure love of the art. He’s had success in both pop and country genres and is constantly finding new ways to express himself musically. We talk about the stresses of being an artist and how it can weigh on your mind and heart. This episode also features one of his newest singles, “Still.”

Check out his website and listen o more of his music here.

No guest in this episode. Instead, I talk about some of the recent ups and downs I’ve had as well as an introspect on the first year of doing this podcast.

Thanks to composer Adrian Ellis once again for composing the theme for the show. Adrian is a brilliant composer for film and television who appeared on episode 6 and you can check out his stuff at www.adrianelliscomposer.com.

Also thanks to Jack Wiktor, who appeared on episode 5, for allowing the use of his music school, Cadence House as a recording studio for many episodes of this podcast. Check out the Cadence House music school at www.cadencehouse.ca.

Growing up in Haiti, Mishka Thébaud hadn’t yet realized his true calling. He and his brother would entertain people by writing and performing comedy inspired by what they saw on television and in the movies. After his family moved to Canada, Mishka discovered he had a real passion for acting. He’s dedicated to it and damn good at it. Over the years he’s made several appearances on television an in films and is now making connections in LA. He’s a great friend and a nice, humble guy who loves what he does almost as much as he loves Christmas. Alright. Maybe one more than the other. Not sure which one though. Check out our great podtalk.

David Bartlett is a critically acclaimed director from Britain whose first film The Goodbye Plane was shortlisted for an Oscar nomination. He has since directed multiple film and television projects worldwide. Starting out as BAFTA nominated child actor, he learned quickly that he loved telling stories from behind the camera even more than in front. Working as both a writer and director he has carved out a career creating some of the most interesting and beautiful stories brought to screen. As a director he creates an on set environment that reminds you how fun it is to be around a filmmaker who loves what he does and loves to have a good time while doing it. His passion for storytelling is evident whether watching his work or helping him create it. We had an amazing chat about life, politics and the arts. Check it out!

Also, check out David’s website and other work here.

In the universe of Stand Up Comedy, Kenny Robinson is a Titan. If ever there was a comic who was true to himself, Kenny is that comic. He is raw and honest. For over thirty years he has taken audiences to places they didn’t know they wanted to go until they were there and brought to light the harsh realities of life, culture and politics. His career as an entertainer has reached into every facet of the industry. He has multiple television appearances including his own show “After Hours with Kenny Robinson” which he wrote, produced and starred in along with many other comedic geniuses. He has appeared in movies such as “Down To Earth,” “Repo Man,” and “The Third Miracle.” He was co-host of the “The Morning Rush” on Flow 93.5fm and he has hosted the Gemini Awards. He’s a gifted actor but in his soul he is a master stand up comic of epic proportions. His episode of “Comics” is regarded by The Toronto Star as "One of the few episodes that still stand with the test of time.” He is a double Gemini nominee for the writing and performance of his one hour comedy special “Thick and Thin.” Behind the scenes, Kenny is regarded as one of the most generous comedians on the circuit. He is known for his encouragement and advice to comics who are currently rising through the ranks. For the last 21 years, Kenny has hosted the “Nubian Disciples Of Pryor All Black Comedy Revue” at Yuk Yuk’s in Toronto the last Sunday of every month. The show is his own creation and showcases some of the most gifted and noteworthy comics in the world. His list of accomplishments is extensive, but perhaps he is most known for in the comedy world is...Kenny’s the guy who’s got your back. This is part two of our talk.

In the universe of Stand Up Comedy, Kenny Robinson is a Titan. If ever there was a comic who was true to himself, Kenny is that comic. He is raw and honest. For over thirty years he has taken audiences to places they didn’t know they wanted to go until they were there and brought to light the harsh realities of life, culture and politics. His career as an entertainer has reached into every facet of the industry. He has multiple television appearances including his own show “After Hours with Kenny Robinson” which he wrote, produced and starred in along with many other comedic geniuses. He has appeared in movies such as “Down To Earth,” “Repo Man,” and “The Third Miracle.” He was co-host of the “The Morning Rush” on Flow 93.5fm and he has hosted the Gemini Awards. He’s a gifted actor but in his soul he is a master stand up comic of epic proportions. His episode of “Comics” is regarded by The Toronto Star as "One of the few episodes that still stand with the test of time.” He is a double Gemini nominee for the writing and performance of his one hour comedy special “Thick and Thin.” Behind the scenes, Kenny is regarded as one of the most generous comedians on the circuit. He is known for his encouragement and advice to comics who are currently rising through the ranks. For the last 21 years, Kenny has hosted the “Nubian Disciples Of Pryor All Black Comedy Revue” at Yuk Yuk’s in Toronto the last Sunday of every month. The show is his own creation and showcases some of the most gifted and noteworthy comics in the world. His list of accomplishments is extensive, but perhaps he is most known for in the comedy world is...Kenny’s the guy who’s got your back. This is part one of our talk.

With a career as a comedian that spans nearly four decades, Simon Rakoff knows the meaning of dedication and love of the craft. He’s seriously funny. And funny when he’s serious. There’s very little he hasn’t done in his voluminous career. He’s one of the original innovators of Canadian Stand Up Comedy and was doing it long before there were designated clubs for comics. Having worked in television, film, appeared in countless stand up festivals, he’s known as one of the truly great veteran comics and he’s still going strong. His curve ball style comedy points out the absurdities of life while making hilarious statements about the meaning, or lack of meaning, of it all. Simon doesn’t just have a passion for comedy; it’s how he thinks. It’s how he feels. It’s who he is. This is part 2 and the conclusion of our conversation.

With a career as a comedian that spans nearly four decades, Simon Rakoff knows the meaning of dedication and love of the craft. He’s seriously funny. And funny when he’s serious. There’s very little he hasn’t done in his voluminous career. He’s one of the original innovators of Canadian Stand Up Comedy and was doing it long before there were designated clubs for comics. Having worked in television, film, appeared in countless stand up festivals, he’s known as one of the truly great veteran comics and he’s still going strong. His curve ball style comedy points out the absurdities of life while making hilarious statements about the meaning, or lack of meaning, of it all. Simon doesn’t just have a passion for comedy; it’s how he thinks. It’s how he feels. It’s who he is.

What can you say about LEGENDARY producer Robert Watts that hasn’t already been said? I, Will Conlon, got to talk with him one on one. That hasn’t been said. He has been involved with the most iconic and industry-changing movies ever created. The original STAR WARS Trilogy, the first 3 INDIANA JONES films, WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT, ALIVE, 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, 007 THUNDERBALL, 007 YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE and the list goes on and on. Throughout his life Robert has let his passion guide him. His commitment, kindness, gentle humility, intense creativity and ability to navigate even the craziest film shoots are what has brought filmmakers like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg back to work with him again and again. Now in his 70’s Robert has no intention of slowing down.  In fact, he would say he’s only 12 years old with 77 years of experience. So, he’s got a lot left to do. He’s incredibly generous and gracious and shares some of the most fun and fascinating stories you could hear. But mostly, he’s just a great guy to be around and have a pint with, regardless of his history and success in the entertainment industry.

You can catch him this Saturday, June 25th at the Royal Cinema in Toronto, ON for a Q & A showcase called “A Conversation With Robert Watts.” You can purchase tickets online for the event here. I HIGHLY recommend it.

Thanks Robert for being on the podcast. You represent the best part of both show business and the human spirit.

Andy McQueen is all about the love of his craft. He’s the kind of actor who brings such intensity and genuineness to his roles that his performance will be burned in your memory. As if being a great actor isn’t enough, he also writes and directs his own material. He has a deep love of all genres and challenges himself with every new role and writing project. Without a doubt he is one of Toronto’s true talents who’s love of the craft is only matched by his kindness and encouragement of others.

Shannon Lahaie is funny. Really funny. She has been acting and performing sketch comedy for many years and is currently writing and performing with the troupe “Dame Judy Dench.” She’s the perfect mix of upbeat energy, and quick wit. But perhaps her most admirable attribute is her ambition. She has set her sights on the life she wants to live and will accept nothing less. She loves what she does and is damn good at it. She’s one of those talented funny people who, after spending just a little time with, you realize, without question, that she’s doing exactly what she should be doing with her life – entertaining people and making them laugh.

Darren Frost is a 25 year vet of the stand-up stage. His uproarious x-rated show has been both hated and celebrated throughout most of his career. On top of his unapologetic viewpoints on and off stage, Darren has an extensive credit list including appearances in countless big name movies, TV shows and commercials as well as co-hosting the show “Anything Goes” on Sirius XM. He’s appeared all over the world and is still allowed back in some places! Some say he’s got a rough exterior with a heart of gold underneath. He would say you should shut the fuck up. Check out his website here.

Also purchase Darren’s 25 hour “The Darkness Within” Digital Boxset at www.comedywhorestore.com

Akosua Amo-Adem has come a long way…literally. Born in Ghana, West Africa, she moved here with her family when she was young and discovered that she had a passion for acting. Her story is almost as fantastic as she is. She’s talented, strong willed and is the embodiment of a positive attitude. It’s easy to see why she is one of the fasting rising actors in Canada. She has already graced the cover of NOW magazine and has been in countless theatre productions and TV appearances. You have to here the tale of Akosua! Check her out!

Darryl Dinn has dedicated most of his life to doing what eh loves – entertaining people. He’s a prolific performer with a sharp comedic edge that comes through in everything he does and also possesses an acute mind for dramatic acting. He brings a high level of creativity to everything he becomes involved in making him a precious resource for directors, writers and anyone he works with. Off screen he is a generous soul who is the one to call when you need a shoulder to lean on. If you haven’t seen him already in his numerous commercial, film and television appearances, you will soon enough.

Check out his website here.

The only word that can describe Wayne Flemming is indescribable. But in an inadequate attempt, I would say he’s a master comic, a genius storyteller, a brilliant performer and an amazing friend. Celebrated as one of the original trailblazers of Canadian comedy, he defined “funny” for most comedians that met him. Recently, Wayner (that’s what he liked his close friends to call him) passed on to discover the ultimate “Ooga Booga.” Although he’s no longer with us, he’s more present than ever. This episode features flemmories from Simon Rakoff, Paul Haywood, Mark Walker and Deb Conlon and serves as a tribute to the man who was mentor and friend to myself and so many. Episode 23 is all yours Wayner. Just like I promised.

Working as a musician takes more than just talent. It takes dedication, hard work and discipline. Erik Solarski is a musician that demonstrates these qualities and more. With an acute sense of self, he is intent on composing great music in an ever-changing industry. Never afraid of a challenge, he has collaborated with musicians from all over Canada to create his own unique sound that can be found in film and television as well as in the highly successful online web series, Carmilla. His band, Soles, is a versatile musical collective that is consistently releasing fresh new tunes. You’ll love his stuff and you can find it all on his website here.

Ashley Hallihan is more than a highly sought out casting director. She’s a passionate, dedicated woman who genuinely cares about actors and artists and does whatever she can to promote them in the industry. After years of working for other casting agencies, Ashley started her own – Hallihan Casting, which has brought many actors to the screen in film and television. She’s smart. She’s tough and she knows what she’s talking about. During our conversation she gives out sage advice to actors and entertainers who are trying to get in the room and book the role. Listen!

Check out the website for Hallihan Casting here.

Actors Who Lunch is a monthly gathering put on by Victoria Kucher where actors can come together, have a bite to eat and chat about the biz. Anything is up for discussion – auditioning, agents, casting directors, why we sneeze when we look at the sun. Primarily though, AWL promotes unity in the thespian community and is a great way to meet other like minding artists and merge those who are new to the industry and those who are seasoned vets.  And you can eat waffles! It’s a great time highly recommended for anyone who’s looking to get some great advice on all things acting. Find out more on the Actors Who Lunch Facebook page and Twitter.

This episode features several talented actors including Victoria Kucher, Shannon Lahaie, Alex Wong, Leanne Smith, Risa Sky Stone, Jesse Collin, Andrew Fleming, and Meghan Allen. Check ALL of them out!

It takes most comics many years to find a voice on stage and bring their true self to their material. It took JJ Liberman only three. After pursuing careers in baseball and as a professional poker player, he found his true calling in stand up comedy. He is one of the hardest working comics in the Toronto comedy club scene and his absolute dedication to the art form is unquestionable. If you get to see one of his more than two dozen sets he does weekly around the city, you’ll be taken on a ride through his unapologetic views on life, death, and what it’s like to be a “gay man in a straight man’s body.”

Check out JJ's hilarious podcast Fckonomics, which he does with fellow comics Ryan Long and Danny Polishchuk here.

Christina Notto is a strong willed, hard working actress who has been involved in the performance arts since she was just a kid. She is a very gifted performer who believes being successful means more than just being talented, which she is. It also means being a good person, which she is. She surrounds herself with like-minded artists so that she can help them accomplish their goals as well.  She’s a generous soul with a heart of gold! Check her out!

Navin Ramaswaran is truly dedicated to what he loves to do – making movies. He’s a director, editor, writer, and has his own production company, Splice Films. A world traveler, he has worked in the entertainment industry for a number of years and is as positive and generous as he is creative and hard working. His new film “Chasing Valentine” has already premiered in Europe and the U.S. and is making its Canadian debut on at 5:15pm, April 2, 2016 at Royal Cinema in Toronto. Check it out! But first, check out our great conversation.

Watch the trailer for "Chasing Valentine" here.

Check out Splice Films, Navin's production company, here.

If you combine hard work, positivity, talent, charisma and one hell of a great voice you get Gavin Slate. He’s a singer, songwriter, mixer, producer and all around multi-talented musician. He has been playing since he was a kid and is now having some much deserved success. His music is something that will give you the feels instantly and he has a fantastic work ethic and outlook on the life of an artist. Check him out!

You can find his music and more here!

Mark Matthews has been through hell and lived to joke about it. He’s a veteran stand up comic and kidney disease survivor. The result? An annual benefit comedy show he puts together to raise money for kidney disease called “Komedy For Kidneys Rodney Pentland Memorial.” This is a show not to be missed, and neither is Mark’s story. He’s not the prick he’d like you to think he is. Instead, he’s a very funny man who has defied the odds and does what he can to encourage young comedians and help give back to the medical community that saved him. Check it out!

This years “Komedy For Kidneys Rodney Pentland Memorial Show” is on March 3 at 8:30pm at the Glen Frewin Theatre, 5781 Ellen Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario.

You can buy tickets here.

Also like and share the facebook page.

The comedians on the show include Glen Foster, JohnnyGardhouse, Darren Frost, Chris Quigley, Marc Calaguiro, Jason Allen and hosted by Mark Matthews

Do not miss it!

Jennifer Lockman and Brian Dahl prove that with hard work, dedication and perseverance anything is possible. Their band  “Andreas” has survived the odds and still going strong after 6 years. Their dedication to creating music they love to play while keeping their image real and authentic is inspiring and evident in every song they release. Check them out!

www.andreasband.com

This episode features to great songs from them. A cover of Danger Danger's "Don't Blame It On Love" and their original song "One More Day." Check them out by clicking the song names in the previous sentence. Neat eh?

Paul Haywood doesn’t hold anything back in his act or is personal life. He’s one of Canada’s sharpest and funniest stand-up comics and that is just a fact. He’s also one of the nicest guys around.  At times he may come across unassuming, but watch out. He’s like a comedy bear trap. His stories about his past and rising up the stand-up ladder in Canada show why he has one of the most insightful and funniest minds in the entire galaxy. This is part 2 of our talk.

Paul Haywood doesn’t hold anything back in his act or is personal life. He’s one of Canada’s sharpest and funniest stand-up comics and that is just a fact. He’s also one of the nicest guys around.  At times he may come across unassuming, but watch out. He’s like a comedy bear trap. His stories about his past and rising up the stand-up ladder in Canada show why he has one of the most insightful and funniest minds in the entire galaxy.

There’s a reason Shannon Laverty has been performing stand up comedy for over 25 years…she’s damn great at it. She’s edgy, smart and real. Shannon possesses a razor sharp comic mind that leaves you aching from laughter and lost in interesting imagery. She’s been celebrated in just about every renowned comedy festival including Just For Laughs. Originally from western Canada, she has made a name for herself through the country as one of the funniest and most generous comedians both on and off the stage. This is the second half of our fantastic conversation.

There’s a reason Shannon Laverty has been performing stand up comedy for over 25 years…she’s damn great at it. She’s edgy, smart and real. Shannon possesses a razor sharp comic mind that leaves you aching from laughter and lost in interesting imagery. She’s been celebrated in just about every renowned comedy festival including Just For Laughs. Originally from western Canada, she has made a name for herself through the country as one of the funniest and most generous comedians both on and off the stage.

Few people leave me speechless and dumbfounded. Emma Lee does it easily during our conversation as well as any time I see her perform. She’s an extraordinary singer and songwriter whose voice will melt you. Her music covers all range of emotions and is filled with her personal experiences throughout her life. Listen to her newest single “All The Way” and check out all her music and tour dates at www.emma-lee.com. Wow. Just wow.  

I also had the privilege of appearing in one of her music videos a few years back for her super fun song “Figure It Out.” See it!

Michael Mast is a gifted actor with a generous soul. He works hard to support the acting community by doing a weekly gathering called “Slate Class” where actors can perform scenes from projects currently being cast and recording those performances to advance their skills and career. He’s dedicated his life to his craft and is a valued member of the acting community. Check him out!

Also check out his “Slate Studio” class on Facebook and on Twitter!

Kelly Marie Murtha spends her days creating meaningful work as an actor, writer and director. She finds and develops projects that has deep meaning to her and represent her personal beliefs. Balancing a career with having a family, she has managed to find that perfect combination of life, love and artistry. But don’t make her angry. You wouldn’t like her when she’s angry…

Talent, Style, Class, Intelligence and he knows Karate. No It’s not Bruce Lee. It’s Music Composer/Producer Adrian Ellis. Over his career Adrian has reached some truly impressive heights. Having an acute sense of style and the ability to create precisely the right sound for any project, he has composed music for many film, television and media projects ranging from the CFL to this podcast! He’s the best guy to have in your corner whether it’s to provide you with some amazing compositions, help produce your album, or if you just need some inspiration.

Check out his fantastic website adrianelliscomposer.com

Filmmaker Jack Wiktor does it all. He directors. He writes. He produces. He’s the head of Cosmotion Pictures and has a distinct style and vision for each of his projects. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Jack continually creates projects that can be fun and provocative but also tackle subjects that help us discover who we are as both individuals and a society. He’s the embodiment of positivity and that shines through in both his films and his experiences with those lucky enough to work with him. Watch him. He’s going places…

Watch some of Jack’s films at www.cosmotionpictures.com

Victoria knows all about acting and the “F” words associated with it (fun and frustration) and has been at it since she left home in Edmonton, Alberta and came to Toronto, Ontario many years ago. She’s a multi talented actress who has carved out a very admirable career on stage and in front of the camera in all genres. But perhaps her most admirable accomplishment is how she gives back to the acting community and keeps hope alive in others who would have quit years ago, including myself. She’s a wonderful person with more wit and charm than a witty charm bracelet.  Listen and you’ll see…or hear…is this thing on?

Part 2 of my interview with stand up comic Mark Walker. Having a career in stand up is tough. Doing it for 3 decades is astonishing. Celebrating a landmark 30th year as one of Canada's most versatile funnymen, Mark Walker has talks with me about his journey from growing up in Truro, Nova Scotia to establishing himself as one of the most highly respected comedians on stage. He discusses his life, surviving in the harsh world of stand up, and his personal thoughts on the entertainment industry and those he admires within it. He’s an extremely funny man who’s ability to jump from voices and impressions to edgy stories with razor sharp punch lines keeps audiences hanging on every word.

Having a career in stand up is tough. Doing it for 3 decades is astonishing. Celebrating a landmark 30th year as one of Canada's most versatile funnymen, Mark Walker talks with me about his journey from growing up in Truro, Nova Scotia to establishing himself as one of the most highly respected comedians on stage. He discusses his life, surviving in the harsh world of stand up, and his personal thoughts on the entertainment industry and those he admires within it. He’s an extremely funny man who’s ability to jump from voices and impressions to edgy stories with razor sharp punch lines keeps audiences hanging on every word.

In the premiere episode I talk about myself. That's right. It's all about me, baby. I want you to get to know me and all my fears, doubts, failures and successes. If I expect people to share that with me, then it's only fair that I share that with you. I talk with someone who knows me better than anyone else - my Ma. We discuss the importance of support and what it's like to raise an artist. She is an extraordinary person and parent. You'll see why I was lucky to be raised by such a strong, supportive, independent woman. Everyone has a story. This is mine.