Have you ever wondered how your favorite performer actually feels? Well, here’s your chance! Tony nominee and psychotherapist Bobby Steggert dives deep with Broadway's finest. Part interview/part therapy, he goes right to the heart of things with some of your favorite artists - What they still struggle with. What lessons they’ve learned. What they …

LIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Heléne Yorke. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn mo…

LIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Dulé Hill. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn more …

LIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Megan Hilty. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn mor…

Julia Murney (WICKED, WILD PARTY) is here to talk about her time as the Wicked Witch, how growing up in NYC in a family of actors gave her a very different perspective and what it means to be a woman in this business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesעל ידי Broadway Podcast Network

Jacqui Polk (HAIRSPRAY, SPELLING BEE) found early success in her career on Broadway but found that she wanted to expand her dream and went to business school. Jacqui talks about how she found the courage to forge a new path and try something new. Her leap into a new realm paid off. She has worked for environmental causes, a U.S. senator, is current…

Jennifer Simard (MEAN GIRLS, DISASTER) has made a name for herself on Broadway as one of the funniest musical comedians in the business since her early days in the company of FORBIDDEN BROADWAY. Jen shares the overwhelming feeling of being nominated for Tony for her work in DISASTER and the joy of sharing that moment with the friends and family who…

Oak (HAMILTON, STATION 19) is best known for originating the roles of Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in HAMILTON on Broadway. Oak talks about his unlikely path to Broadway and what it was like to be at the epicenter of the biggest hit on Broadway in a generation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Josh Lamon (THE PROM, GROUNDHOG DAY) has a very unique path to Broadway. He didn’t like school so he left college early and wound up getting his equity card in a very “creative” way. Josh is one of the funniest actors on Broadway. Onstage and off. His years of regional theater and lab work on new musicals prepared him for his current new venture as…

Donna Lynne (CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND, HOLLYWOOD ARMS) talks with Rory about the difference between singing on Broadway and singing on TV, raising a child while maintaining an acting career, and her time working on a new Broadway show with the legendary Carol Burnett. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Jared Gertner (MORMON, SPELLING BEE) is an Olivier nominee for his portrayal of Elder Cunningham in the West End production of THE BOOK OF MORMON. Jared has had the dream of being on Broadway since he was three and his parents took him to CATS. His determination led him to graduate from NYU Drama School, participate in regional theater all across t…

George Salazar (BE MORE CHILL, GODSPELL) is one of the most grateful, lovely and charming folks to have been on living the dream. He just finished a run off Broadway in the phenomenon BE MORE CHILL which will open on Broadway in the spring. It’s a very exciting time for George who has worked hard for years to have a moment like this. Learn more abo…

Lesli Margherita (MATILDA, ZORRO) is an Olivier Award winner who took Broadway by storm in her star making performance as Mrs. Wormwood in MATILDA. She is a triple threat and that includes being seen in recent TV dramas like HOMELAND and 7 SECONDS. Lesli had a steady climb to her success in NYC which has given her a unique perspective and gratitude…

Carly Hughes (AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, PIPPIN, CHICAGO) made her way from regional theater to understudying on Broadway to literally being the “Lead Player” in PIPPIN. Her extensive broadway credits led her to her current gig as a series regular on ABC’s AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE where she has learned a new language from working on a set. Carly has navigated h…

Jason Michael Snow (THE BOOK OF MORMON, SOUTH PACIFIC) is an actor, composer, writer, and very funny human being. Jason has excelled in all of these areas because he learned early on that you have to make your own opportunities. Jason walks us through the daily routines that keep him grounded, how he uses humor to deal with rejection, and his thoug…

Kirsten Wyatt (ANNIE, GREASE) refers to herself as “Blue Collar Broadway.” A veteran of many shows and an elected member of Actor’s Equity council, Kirsten is extremely active in the community and a positive leader. Rory and Kirsten talk about their work with #BeltTheVote and why having a foundation outside of your career is so important. Learn mor…

Ilana Levine is the host of the podcast LITTLE KNOWN FACTS and has appeared on Broadway in YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, JAKE'S WOMEN, and THE LAST NIGHT OF BALLYHOO. Ilana and Rory talk about there mutual love of podcasting and why they do it. You can find Ilana's podcast at http://www.littleknownfactspodcast.com Learn more about your ad choic…

Eric Anderson (PRETTY WOMAN, WAITRESS, KINKY BOOTS) and Jessica Rush (JERSEY BOYS, GYPSY, SUMMER) are a hard-working Broadway couple who have to balance 8 shows a week with raising a kid. They are continually adjusting and learing the best way to pick up their child from school, make that audition, and sing at that benefit. They are incredibly tale…

Andy Karl (ROCKY, GROUNDHOG DAY, PRETTY WOMAN) has been the leading man in a musical on Broadway in nearly every season for the last decade. He is known for his talent, dedication to the work, and great sense of humor. Andy and Rory go way back to working on HAPPY DAYS THE MUSICAL for the late great Garry Marshall, who co-wrote Andy's current hit s…

Beth Crosby (Dr. Ken, Speechless, Life in Pieces) is an alum of The Groundlings, has appeared on many TV shows and in several national commercials. Beth and Rory share stories from their days waitng on tables together at a restaurant during their eary post college days in LA. Beth talks about how her dream grew from soley being about Broadway to wo…

Kevin (DAYS OF OUR LIVES, AFTER FOREVER) has participated in every aspect of show business. From touring as a chorus boy to standing by for Hugh Jackman on Broadway. From starring in soap operas on daytime to producing his own internet series AFTER FOREVER- Kevin has maintained a diverse career on both coasts while navigating the difficult task of …

Legendary producer Craig Zadan unexpectedly passed away this week, so we are replaying his recent episode in honor of his life and great career. We are lukcy to have heard so many great stories here on this podcast. He was passionate, kind and inspired us all. Craig's work will live on forever. Our condolences to his friends and family. Learn more …

Asmeret (DREAMGIRLS, THE BOOK OF MORMON, LEGALLY BLONDE) is currently starring in DREAMGIRLS on the West End after performing on Broadway ensembles of numerous shows. She got her fierce work ethic and drive to succeed from her immigrant parents and her early days of dance competition in Pittsburgh. Asmeret's story is unique and shows what hard work…

Marc Tumminelli is the founder and director of www.broadwayworkshop.com, a school for high school and middle school performers who love Broadway. Marc started as an actor, but after years of working and a few really heart breaking experiences, he decided to start his own school in NYC. Marc has wonderful insights for actors who want to teach, kids …

Rickey Minor is one of the most successful musical directors in the business. His work on The Tonight Show, American Idol and world tours for Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, and Beyonce have solidified his spot as one of the biggest names in the music industry. Rickey grew up in Los Angeles and ended up walking away from a full ride college ed…

Rachel Bloom (CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND) is a Golden Globe Award winning actress for playing Rebecca Bunch on her hit TV show. She talks Rory through how she went from musical theatre lover to sketch comedian to creating and starring in her own musical TV comedy series which is just starting to film it’s fourth and final season. Rachel emphasizes that th…

Bobby Steggert (BIG FISH, RAGTIME, YANK) tells Rory why he decided to walk away from an incredibly successful acting career and pursue a masters degree in social work. Bobby has accomplished many things in the industry including being nominated for a Tony Award, but he felt compeled to make a difference in the world more directly than just throught…

Susan Blackwell ([title of show], SIDE BY SIDE BY SUSAN BLACKWELL) tells Rory the incredible story of how [title of show] started around a kitchen table, then went downtown and made it all the way to Broadway. All along the way, Susan maintained her "survival job" and learned how to be grateful for it. Susan talks about how her song DIE VAMPIRE, DI…

Mandy Gonzalez (IN THE HEIGHTS, HAMILTON) talks with Rory from her dressing room in the Richard Rodgers Theatre where she currently brings down the house playing "Angelica" in HAMILTON. The same dressing room she had for IN THE HEIGHTS. Mandy has an incredible story that starts with the unlikely union of her parents, leaving college at 19 to become…

Andrew Rannells (THE BOOK OF MORMON, GIRLS, FALSETTOS) is a two time Tony nominated actor and star of TV and film. Andrew shares his stories about rejection, jealousy and working in the Warner Brothers gift shop. Rory and Andrew talk about their shared experience of opening THE BOOK OF MORMON on Broadway and how it changed everything. Learn more ab…

Producer Craig Zadan (CHICAGO, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR LIVE) tells Rory what his definition of being a producer is and how he excelled as one on Broadway and in TV & film. Craig talks about the successes and challenges of producing live musicals for TV and of course... producing SMASH. He weaves us through his career starting from working for Joe Pa…

The hilarious Kate Flannery (THE OFFICE) tells Rory how her early dream of playing the title role in ANNIE started it all. She grew up in Philly, the youngest in a large Irish family. Her aunt ended up buying her a plane ticket to Chicago to introduce her Second City and it changed her life. Kate became a success in Hollywood by working hard every …

Patti Murin (FROZEN, LYSISTRATA JONES) talks with Rory about what if feels like to lead a big juggernaut blockbuster show. She is incredibly open about her struggles with anxiety and depression and has changed the way the Broadway community talks about dealing with mental illness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Cheyenne Jackson (American Horror Story, All Shook Up) talks about his career path from rural Washington state to Broadway and then Hollywood. Cheyenne gives his takes on how to deal with rejection, body image issues and what its like to be a leading man gay actor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Tony nominee (SWEET CHARITY) and TV/Film star (ANCHORMAN, BAD MOMS, MARRIED WITH CHILDREN) Christina Applegate talks with Rory about her career that started when she was three years old. She's taken on every part of this business with confidence and humor. She tells Rory her story of how she made her Broadway debut despite breaking her foot! Learn …

Leslie (Tony Award Winner for HAMILTON) and Rory talk about their college years together at Carnegie Mellon University and his book "Failing Up." Leslie chats about his mentors, his philosophy on the business and how he maintains a healthy family life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Siobhan talks to Rory about making her way from the London theatre scene to SUNSET BOULEVARD on Broadway opposite Glenn Close and eventually to Los Angeles. Siobhan has had a very unique experience during her career including reality tv shows, taking time off to study fashion, and a serious health scare. She has found a way to stay centered through…

Wes Taylor (ROCK OF AGES, ADDAMS FAMILY, SMASH) talks about his early success right out of college and how it had its pros and cons. He immediately had a great role on Broadway but realized years later that the business doesn't usually operate that way. Wes and Rory have an honest conversation about being up for the same role and how they managed t…

Taran (SNL, HAMILTON, KILLING GUNTHER) and Rory talk about their shared experience of playing King George III in HAMILTON on Broadway. Taran walks us through his years in Groundlings, through his audition for SNL and his experience on that iconic show. He also explains how he and his equally successful wife, Cobie Smulders, balance work life and fa…

Jimmy is the host of the very successful podcast NEVER NOT FUNNY and his new podcast PLAYING GAMES with JIMMY PARDO. Jimmy started as a stage actor but found his calling in standup comedy and began touring the country eventually ending up at The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. He tells Rory about his early days in the business and how juggles his …

Nicole Parker (MADtv, WICKED, FAME BECOMES ME) talks with Rory about her path to success in the improv and sketch comedy world which landed her in the cast of MADtv and set her in stone in the eyes of the industry as a comedic actress, even though her first passion for performing came from musical theater. Nicole eventually made her way to Broadway…

Edi Patterson (VICE PRINCIPALS on HBO) talks with Rory about coming up in the comedy world through the Groundlings and how she became a master at improvisation and sketch. Edi and Rory worked together on the TV show PARTNERS with Kelsey Grammer and Martin Lawrence, and quickly became pals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoi…

Amber Iman (HAMILTON, SOUL DOCTOR, SHUFFLE ALONG) talks with Rory about growing up in the Atlanta theater scene with her actress mother. Amber went to Howard University on a full academic scholarship and then went back to her hometown to get her start but after years of "playing it safe" was give an ultimatum by loved ones to break out of her comfo…

Rory answers listener's questions and replays his converation with his buddy Josh Gad. Josh is currently starring in the movie MARSHALL about Thurgood Marshall and will be seen later this year in THE ORIENT EXPRESS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesעל ידי Broadway Podcast Network

Jeff Greenberg is the Emmy Award winning casting director for MODERN FAMILY, CHEERS, FRASIER and many more groundbreaking hit TV series. He got his start in the business as a stage actor and made his way in casting through the LA theatre scene. Jeff's stories about casting Kirstie Alley in CHEERS and letting Lisa Kudrow go from FRASIER (she booked …

Barrett Foa (NCIS:LA, Avenue Q, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) was born and raised in NYC so his love for theater naturally led him to Broadway, but winding up on one of TV’s longest running TV shows was a little more of a surprise. Barrett explains how he moved to LA and within weeks found himself on NCIS: LA and how he has navigated …

Mo Brady (The Addams Family, Smash, The Ensemblist) talks with Rory about his move from Broadway ensemble to Video and Social Media Producer for a major charity, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. Mo explains how he came to embrace a change in career and “hung up his tap shoes”. His podcast, The Ensemblist has given him an outlet to continue in the…

Marilu Henner (Taxi, Evening Shade, Chicago on Broadway) talks to Rory about her amazing career and how she went from the first ever production of Grease to TV star, to Broadway star and then health & wellness book mogul. Marilu has done it all and remembers every single bit of it due to her Highly Superior Auto-Biographical Memory that gives her t…

Joseph Leo Bwarie, who played Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys on Broadway and all over the country, reminisces with Rory about the old days while seated in the very theater where they met many years ago. Joe is talking over as co-Artistic Director for the Garry Marshall Theatre where both he and Rory got their start in Happy Days the Musical working f…

Meet Hamiltour’s Eliza! The super talented Solea talks about booking this dream job just six weeks after graduating from college. Solea is an incredibly sweet and humble young woman who initially had a hard time believing it when they asked her to play Eliza, but has learned to embrace it and remember that she worked hard for it. Her boyfriend Ryan…