Best Booksmart Studios Podcasts (2025)

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Hollywood Beginnings: Mason McNulty on Acting, Music, and Riding into Billy the Kid's Legacy 37:52

Play Pause

15d ago37:52

37:52

What does it take to build an acting career from the ground up? Mason McNulty pulls back the curtain on his journey from child actor to versatile performer, offering a refreshingly honest look at the realities of Hollywood. McNulty's story begins with his first role at just three months old—a PSA about safely surrendering unwanted babies that earne…

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From Kid Reporter to Rising Star: Lacey Katena's Journey of Self-Discovery 37:01

15d ago37:01

37:01

What happens when you grow up with a professional mascot as your father? For Lacey Katena, it meant learning the art of physical comedy, performing without fear, and understanding how to read and respond to audience energy. These foundational skills served her well as she navigated early entertainment experiences as an NBA mini mascot and NBC kid r…

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From Classical Indian Dance to Hollywood: The Aparna Brielle Story 25:32

20d ago25:32

25:32

Dancing between worlds comes naturally to Aparna Brielle. Her journey from performing ancient Bharata Natyam dance in Portland to starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger reveals an artist whose cultural roots fuel her creative expression. Working with comedy legends Glenn Howerton and Patton Oswalt provided Aparna with masterclass-level training, …

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From Mexican Stages to Hollywood Sets: Mariana Trevino's Journey 34:24

21d ago34:24

34:24

Mariana Trevino's path to acting alongside Hollywood legends wasn't meticulously planned but unfolded through what she calls "hunches from the heart." Before sharing the screen with Tom Hanks and Owen Wilson, she explored dance, singing, and literature. In "Stick," Trevino portrays Elena, a Mexican mother navigating the delicate balance of protecti…

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From Coach to Director: Michelle Danner's Path Through Hollywood 24:19

22d ago24:19

24:19

What drives someone to become the person trusted by Hollywood's best actors to help them deliver their most powerful performances? Michelle Danner pulls back the curtain on her fascinating journey from actress to renowned acting coach and director in this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast. Michelle shares, explaining how coaching actors evolved …

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Acting Was Never Plan B: Anthony E Williams' Strategic Rise in Hollywood 40:46

22d ago40:46

40:46

What happens when you combine business strategy with creative passion? Meet Anthony E. Williams, a corporate executive who didn't start acting until his mid-30s and has since appeared in Netflix's "Straw," Law & Order: SVU, and New Amsterdam. Williams brings a refreshingly pragmatic approach to the entertainment industry. When opportunities weren't…

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Teens on Screen - Bring It On, School of Rock 53:03

23d ago53:03

53:03

"I don't know what's scarier, neurotic cheerleaders or the pressure to win. I could make a killing selling something like Diet Prozac." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits t…

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The Art of Authenticity: Anne-Marie Johnson's Journey 40:52

24d ago40:52

40:52

Anne-Marie Johnson takes us behind the scenes of her remarkable four-decade career in television and film. Growing up in a middle-class household with a police officer father and teacher mother, Johnson's path to success wasn't paved with industry connections but with determination and talent. The veteran actress discusses her iconic roles on "In t…

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From Foster Care to Hollywood: How Zay Domo Artist Defied the Odds 21:50

1M ago21:50

21:50

What does it take to break into Hollywood with no connections, no formal training, and the added challenge of navigating the foster care system? Actor Zay Domo Artist reveals the extraordinary path that led him from group homes in Florida to major film and television sets. Zay's story demolishes industry stereotypes as he details his journey from h…

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From Twilight Zone to Cryptic: Jeff Gladstone on Set Dynamics and Career Longevity 30:45

1M ago30:45

30:45

Jeff Gladstone pulls back the curtain on the unpredictable world of professional acting, revealing the fascinating reality behind your favorite TV shows and movies. With credits including Fire Country, Virgin River, The Twilight Zone, and Resident Alien, Gladstone offers a refreshingly candid look at what it really means to build a sustainable acti…

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Teens on Screen - The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller's Day Off 1:23:34

1M ago1:23:34

1:23:34

"Hey, Cameron. You realize if we played by the rules right now we'd be in gym?" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films o…

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Oversleeping at the Sleepover 25:10

1M ago25:10

25:10

Over isn’t just the opposite of under and off is not necessarily the opposite of on. John explains. Please subscribe to Lexicon Valley to support our show — go to www.booksmartstudios.com to find out how! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.…

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Finding Voice Through Music: Shelea's Musical Journey 48:12

2M ago48:12

48:12

From harmonizing at age two to commanding stages at the White House, Vatican, and Royal Albert Hall, Shelea's musical journey reveals the power of authentic artistry in today's viral-focused landscape. The Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter opens up about finding her voice despite natural shyness, initially pursuing a career behind the scenes as a …

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Skyler Bible on 'Lilo & Stitch' and Finding Your Path in Hollywood 33:08

2M ago33:08

33:08

From high school theater elective to Disney's newest live-action remake, actor Skyler Bible takes us behind the scenes of his journey to becoming Agent Foster in the highly anticipated "Lilo & Stitch" hitting theaters May 23rd. Skyler shares his experiences on iconic sets like "The Book of Boba Fett," where Jon Favreau unexpectedly stepped in to di…

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Teens on Screen - Blockers, Booksmart 1:16:27

2M ago1:16:27

1:16:27

"We are not one-dimensional. We are smart and fun!" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something we maybe shouldn…

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Shakespeare with a Soundtrack - Reviewing Juliet and Romeo and A Conversation with Alex Grech 27:11

2M ago27:11

27:11

Set in 1301, when Italy was still barely an idea, Juliet & Romeo reimagines Shakespeare’s tragic story through a fresh musical lens. The film follows star-crossed lovers Romeo (Jamie Ward) and Juliet (Clara Rugaard), who must keep their love hidden as their families remain locked in a bitter feud. For those familiar with my reviews, you know musica…

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The Story of Us 21:06

2M ago21:06

21:06

John talks about the subject of his new book by Avery Publishing — Pronoun Trouble: The Story of Us in Seven Little Words. Please subscribe at www.booksmartstudios.com and thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com…

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Acting, Music, and Authenticity: Jet Jurgensmeyer's Journey 35:10

2M ago35:10

35:10

What truly shapes a child actor's journey through Hollywood into adulthood? Jet Jurgensmeyer who began performing at just three years old—offers insights into growing up in the entertainment industry while somehow managing to keep both feet firmly on the ground. From his first role at age four to his family's decision to move to California when he …

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Jonathan Bowen's Journey Through Film, Philosophy, and Finding His Way Back 57:49

3M ago57:49

57:49

The journey from passionate film enthusiast to director isn't always a straight path. For Jonathan L. Bowen, that journey involved writing 600 movie reviews as a teenager, studying philosophy in college, and experiencing a decade-long gap between his first and second feature films. Throughout our conversation, Bowen offers fascinating insights into…

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There Can Only Be One - Teen Cinema 1:17:41

3M ago1:17:41

1:17:41

"We are not one-dimensional. We are smart and fun!" Welcome to There Can Only Be One - the Movie Madness. One theme, two guests, twelve films. At the end of it all we will have narrowed our picks down to the best film in that category. And this month we're battling to find the best slice of teen cinema. Host Russell is joined by Alice and Liz from …

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Happy People: How Andy James is Revolutionizing Flamenco Jazz 16:49

3M ago16:49

16:49

Andy James takes us on a captivating journey from Melbourne to Madrid and beyond in this illuminating conversation about fusion, culture, and artistic evolution. A world-acclaimed flamenco dancer who pivoted to jazz artistry, James embodies the beautiful intersection of seemingly disparate musical traditions. James explains how her latest album "Ha…

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Beyond the E Street Band: How David Sancious Became Music's Special Ingredient 39:01

3M ago39:01

39:01

David Sancious doesn't just play music – he transforms it. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and original E Street Band member sits down for a revealing conversation that spans his remarkable journey from childhood piano lessons to collaborations with the biggest names in music history. From the moment Sancious describes his musical upbringin…

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Teens on Screen - The Princess Diaries, Freaky Friday 1:01:32

3M ago1:01:32

1:01:32

" I can't be a princess! I'm still waiting for normal body parts to arrive!" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or s…

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Finding Freedom Beyond the Screen: A Friendly Conversation with Falk Hentschel Henlee 49:00

3M ago49:00

49:00

Although we’ve only met once and spoken a handful of times, I consider actor Falk Hentschel Henlee and his wife, Kim, friends. We first connected at a comic con in Minnesota, where Falk was meeting fans and promoting his role as Hawkman on the CW shows. What began as a brief interview request turned into an entire afternoon spent with Falk and Kim.…

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Authentic Sound in a Digital World: Mark DiPietro's Musical Philosophy 30:36

3M ago30:36

30:36

What does authentic musicianship look like in today's digital world? Mark DiPietro answers this question through five decades of dedication to his craft, sharing his remarkable journey from pretending a tennis racket was his guitar at age five to releasing two albums filled with real instruments and genuine expression. His debut album "DiPietro Lea…

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Teens on Screen - Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Donnie Darko 1:15:33

3M ago1:15:33

1:15:33

"Sometimes I doubt your commitment to Sparkle Motion." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something we maybe shou…

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Fire, Die, Rim 32:22

4M ago32:22

32:22

The Thai words for fire, die and rim sound an awful lot like the English words fire, die and rim. Why is that? John explains. To help support Lexicon Valley please consider a paid subscription — visit www.booksmartstudios.com and sign up today! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus…

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Teens on Screen - Stand By Me, Boyhood 1:10:56

4M ago1:10:56

1:10:56

"I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they …

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Supercharged since October 7 22:45

5M ago22:45

22:45

Ken Stern (Director of the Bard Center for the Study of Hate) joins Amna and Jeff to discuss these urgent questions: Are campuses hotbeds of antisemitism? How do we define antisemitism in the first place? Is there a difference between antisemitism and anti-Zionism? How have colleges handled the student protests around Gaza? Why are so many higher e…

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Reviving Rock: Lorraine Lewis on Femme Fatale, New Music, and Life in the Spotlight 28:55

5M ago28:55

28:55

Prepare yourself for an energetic journey with the one and only Lorraine Lewis, a trailblazer in the rock music scene since the 80s. Lorraine opens up about her dream to follow in the footsteps of her idol, David Lee Roth. Despite facing the intense challenges of a male-dominated industry, Lorraine’s story is one of resilience and integrity as she …

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Teens on Screen - The Hunger Games, Spider-man: Homecoming 1:10:21

5M ago1:10:21

1:10:21

"I don't know how else to put this: Make sure they remember you." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something we…

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Who Speaks the Language of Social Justice? 17:33

5M ago17:33

17:33

Our friend and colleague Stony Brook sociologist Musa al-Gharbi has a new book out. And it’s a tour-de-force. We Have Never Been Woke is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the economic, political and cultural divides between the haves and the have-nots in the United States. We were delighted to host Musa for a book talk on the Car…

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"You Can't Be an Egalitarian Social Climber" 19:20

5M ago19:20

19:20

Our friend and colleague Stony Brook sociologist Musa al-Gharbi has a new book out. And it’s a tour-de-force. We Have Never Been Woke is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the economic, political and cultural divides between the haves and the have-nots in the United States. We were delighted to host Musa for a book talk on the Car…

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Trouble Ahead 19:41

5M ago19:41

19:41

We were thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to PEN America’s Jeremy Young about what a second Trump administration holds in store for higher education. It was an informative—and sobering—conversation. Over the next four years, we should be prepared for a tsunami of ideologically-driven threats to academic freedom, campus free expression and th…

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Embracing Heritage and Dreams: Amielynn Abellera's Journey in Acting 42:20

6M ago42:20

42:20

What happens when you choose passion over a traditional career path? Amielynn Abellera, our guest, shares her remarkable journey from Stockton, California, all the way to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. As a Filipino-American stage, screen, and voice actress, Amielynn’s story is one of self-discovery and embracing cultural h…

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Hither and Yon 25:51

6M ago25:51

25:51

Words like thence and thither are all but obsolete in English, but they were actually quite useful! John explains. SUBSCRIBE to LEXICON VALLEY — please go to www.booksmartstudios.com to become a paid member and receive our BONUS segments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episo…

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Nostalgia and Inspiration: A Journey with Rebecca Holden from Knight Rider to Philanthropy 33:53

6M ago33:53

33:53

Renowned actress and singer Rebecca Holden takes us on a nostalgic journey through her vibrant career, sharing stories from her time on the iconic show Knight Rider. Her insights into the creative process, script adaptations, and the technical intricacies of working with the legendary Kit car offer a captivating glimpse into the world of 80s televi…

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Christmas 2024 - The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Polar Express 1:01:10

7M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

"Kidnap the Sandy Claws, beat him with a stick, lock him up for ninety years, see what makes him tick." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up…

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Lorie Line's Musical Journey: Touring with Black Beauty and Preparing for the Holiday Season 13:21

7M ago13:21

13:21

Pianist Lorie Line, who has sold over 6 million albums and continues to tour, performing around 50 concerts per year, joins us on this special shortened holiday episode of The Staffa Podcast. Listen in as Lorie calls in from her tour bus, sharing insights into her musical journey. From her beginnings in Reno, Nevada, to her rise in Minneapolis, Lor…

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Christmas 2024 - Scrooged, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation 1:04:13

7M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

"We're gonna need champagne for 250 people, and send the stuff that you send to me. Don't send the stuff that I send to other people." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits th…

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From Courtrooms to Casting Calls: Stacie Greenwell's Inspiring Journey to Hollywood 46:36

7M ago46:36

46:36

Imagine realizing your true calling in the midst of a completely different career path. In this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast we chat with the incredible Stacie Greenwell, a former lawyer turned Hollywood actress, who shares her compelling journey of leaving the legal world to pursue her passion for acting. As we explore Stacie's transition,…

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Down the Rabbit Hole 22:55

7M ago22:55

22:55

Do you know the difference between a rabbit and a hare? And what then is a bunny? Follow John through the etymological warrens of these several words. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.comBy John McWhorter

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Rachel Stubington: From Stage to Screen and the Rise of 'Summer' in Apple TV+ Show Shrinking 37:56

7M ago37:56

37:56

Rachel Stubington, the rising star known for her role as Summer in the Apple series "Shrinking," talks about her journey from the theater stage to the television screen. We explore how her character blossomed into a central storyline under the guidance of creator Bill Lawrence. Playing the witty and confident character of Summer offers Rachel a ful…

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Teens on Screen - A Nightmare on Elm Street, Scream 1:20:54

8M ago1:20:54

1:20:54

"No, please don't kill me, Mr. Ghostface, I wanna be in the sequel!" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something…

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Exploring LGBTQ Representation and Authenticity in Acting with Devin Kawaoka 48:43

8M ago48:43

48:43

Actor Devin Kawaoka joins us for a conversation about his roles on Apple Plus's "Shrinking" and NBC's "Chicago Med." He reveals how a character initially meant to be minor evolved into a significant presence, thanks in part to his dynamic on-screen connection with co-star Michael Urie. This episode also explores the broader capabilities of actors t…

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Balancing Acts: Douglas Vermeeren's Journey Through Stunts and Cinema 51:11

8M ago51:11

51:11

Douglas Vermeeren joins this episode of The Staffa Corner to discuss balancing the worlds of acting, directing, and performing stunts. From his beginnings in Calgary to high-speed stunts on the rooftops of moving cars, Douglas shares experiences and insights. I found our conversation fascinating as we discussed the critical role of stunt performers…

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Teens of Screen - IT Chapter One 1:04:16

8M ago1:04:16

1:04:16

"Welcome to the Loser's Club, asshole!" For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something we maybe shouldn’t have been…

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Teens on Screen - Let the Right One In, Twilight 1:00:06

9M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

"I hate you for making me want you so much." For those who cherish Disney, worship at the altar of Spielberg, love nothing more than immersing themselves into the world of Aardman, let us introduce you to Not Just For Kids. This is the podcast that revisits the films we cherished growing up, be they family films or something we maybe shouldn’t have…

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NCIS: Origins Actor Julian Black Antelope: Breaking Stereotypes and Redefining Indigenous Representation in Entertainment 48:21

9M ago48:21

48:21

Actor, writer, director, and producer Julian Black Antelope joins me on this episode offering a fascinating look into his life and career. Julian shares stories from his early years in Alberta to his work in the entertainment industry. He shares his perspective on the representation of Indigenous people in film and television. He also talks about h…

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The Enchanting World of Shila Ommi - The Pixar Star Talks About Her New Netflix Series KAOS 16:06

9M ago16:06

16:06

Actress Shila Ommi shares her incredible journey from Iran to the United States offers us a window into her world and the diverse experiences that have shaped her remarkable career. From her role as Cinder in Pixar's "Elementals" to her current role in Netflix's "KAOS," Sheila captivates us with insights into her career as an actress, director, wri…