Breaking the Biz Podcast
Join us on Breaking the Biz, a captivating podcast where we dive into the world of entertainment by interviewing seasoned professionals who have made their mark in the industry. Gain invaluable insights as they share their personal journeys, offering advice on navigating the dynamic landscape of the entertainment industry. Whether you're an aspiring actor, musician, filmmaker, author, animator, or any creative soul, tune in for expert career guidance, insider tips, and firsthand accounts on breaking into the biz. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind successful careers and fuel your own passion for the limelight!
Breaking Into Kids Entertainment Writing: Building Worlds That Shape Young Minds // Scott Gray #7253
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Emmy and WGA award-winning writer Scott Gray, whose career spans over two decades in television, comics, games, and digital media. From serving as a head writer to contributing as a freelancer, Scott has helped shape some of the most recognizable and beloved children’s programming in the industry.
Scott shares his journey working with major studios like Disney, Netflix, Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, and Sesame Workshop, and writing for iconic properties including SpongeBob SquarePants, Paw Patrol, The Fairly OddParents, and The Muppets. He dives into what it takes to...
Breaking Into Sound Design: Crafting Worlds You Can Hear // Walt Newman #12251
While audiences may never see his name on screen, Walt Newman’s work is felt in every moment of the shows he helps bring to life. As a five-time Emmy Award–winning Supervising Sound Editor, Walt has mastered the art of shaping how stories are experienced through sound. A proud graduate of Hollywood High and Cal State Northridge, he has built an extraordinary career at the top of the entertainment industry.
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, Walt Newman pulls back the curtain on the intricate world of sound editing, sharing how every detail—from footsteps to bir...
Raising the Standard: Why Every Detail Matters in Event Experiences // Kevin Meraz #3253
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into an often-overlooked element of the entertainment and event industry—the restroom experience—and why it can make or break an event. Kevin Meraz, business owner of Deluxe Porta Potty and a union Set Paramedic, brings a unique perspective shaped by hands-on experience in both event services and on-set safety.
Kevin shares how his family-owned business is redefining expectations by blending luxury, functionality, and thoughtful design into portable restrooms that match the tone and elegance of high-end productions and events. He also discusses the importance of leadership, creating a su...
Breaking Into Voiceover: From Stability to Soulwork // June Yoon #7252
In this heartwarming and deeply reflective episode, we sit down with voice actor, educator, and self-proclaimed “VO Dad” June Yoon. From immigrating to the U.S. at 14 and discovering his passion for performance in a high school improv class, to walking away from a stable teaching career to pursue full-time voice acting, June's story is anything but conventional. He opens up about the pursuit of happiness, navigating uncertainty, and the power of choosing authenticity over expectation.
Listeners will hear about the pressures of the “American Dream,” the value of mentorship in creative spaces, and how joy can be a rad...
Breaking Into Animation: Crafting Comedy, Characters, and Career Longevity // Jerry Langford #6251
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with seasoned animation director Jerry Langford, whose multi-decade career spans some of the most iconic animated series on television. From his early days as a layout artist on King of the Hill and Mission Hill to directing episodes of Family Guy, Jerry takes us behind the scenes of the animation world—where timing, tone, and teamwork are everything.
We explore the evolving landscape of animated storytelling, the power of persistence in a competitive industry, and the unique collaborative process that brings characters to life frame by frame. Je...
Breaking Into Sound: Behind the Board in Music, Film, and Legacy // Tom Gordon #10251
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we go behind the scenes with legendary producer and audio engineer Tom Gordon, whose 30+ year career has shaped the sound of icons across music, film, and television. From recording with Ozzy Osbourne, Dr. Dre, and the Beach Boys to engineering Emmy-winning projects and independent films, Tom brings a deep well of experience and an unmatched ear for excellence.
We explore Tom’s journey through the heart of the entertainment industry—how he’s blended artistry and technical mastery while staying grounded in community. As a former educator, session drummer, and charit...
Breaking Into Experience: Designing Sound, Space, and Story
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into the innovative world of immersive design and creative storytelling with Freddy Janney — a Billboard-charting music producer, DJ, and interactive UX/UI designer. Known in the music world as partywithray, Freddy brings a rare blend of audio mastery and experiential design to his role as Brand Design Lead at PhenomenArts, Inc., a boutique firm specializing in multisensory experiences.
Freddy shares how his passion for storytelling fuels his work across music, visual, spatial, and digital platforms. He also reflects on his transformative time at the USC Iovine & Young Academy, wh...
Breaking into Storytelling: Building Inclusive Worlds On and Off Screen
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Paul Hemstreet, an award-winning producer and multidisciplinary creative with over 25 years of experience shaping some of the most beloved franchises in entertainment. From his tenure at Warner Bros.—working on global hits like Harry Potter, The Matrix, The Hobbit, and the DC Universe—to his current role mentoring neurodivergent talent at Autism in Entertainment, Paul brings a rare blend of high-level industry insight and heartfelt advocacy.
Paul shares how producing live events and content across departments, continents, and technologies has shaped his approach to storytelling—and why cr...
Breaking Into Imagination: From Boredom to Business // Alessandro Concas #3252
What starts as childhood curiosity can grow into something truly impactful—and Alessandro Concas is living proof.
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with teen author and entrepreneur Alessandro Concas, a student at Learning Post Academy in Valencia, California, who’s been building a creative empire since he was eight years old. It all began with a simple idea during a long summer break—The A to Zs of Fighting Boredom, his first published book. That spark ignited an early passion for writing, which evolved into his ongoing science fiction series, Life of the Ti...
Breaking Into Backbone: Building Creative Businesses from the Inside Out // Tyler Burr #5251
Bret sits down with operations expert and Syzygy founder Tyler Burr to explore the critical—but often invisible—role of infrastructure in the creative industries. With a career spanning film and TV production, the arts, hospitality, and business operations, Tyler brings a systems-first mindset to every challenge she tackles.
As the founder of Syzygy, she leads a team dedicated to empowering creative entrepreneurs by transforming back-office functions—like accounting, HR, and operations—into strategic assets. Her approach helps small businesses grow with clarity, confidence, and control. Known for her pragmatic leadership and sharp operational instincts, Tyler is a firm b...
Breaking into Animation: Leading with Imagination and Inclusion // Howie Hoffman #4252
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with animation veteran Howie Hoffman, a visionary Creative Art Director whose work has helped define multiple eras of animated entertainment and advertising.
Hoffman has brought some of pop culture’s most iconic visual moments to life—whether it’s the Trix Cereal rabbit in action, Michael Jordan mingling with Looney Tunes in a groundbreaking MCI commercial, or the unforgettable opening sequences of Reading Rainbow and The Magic School Bus. His contributions to network branding and animated interstitials for outlets like NBC Late Night, HBO, Cartoon Network, and Nickel...
Breaking into Cultural Crossroads: The Art and Impact of Music // Bobby Easton #4251
Born in Long Beach, California, to a U.S. Army colonel and a Korean army nurse, Bobby’s path seemed destined for discipline and structure. Yet from an early age, he was irresistibly drawn to art in all forms. After initially pursuing art in college, he experienced an epiphany: music was the most powerful artistic medium he could imagine. That revelation launched a lifetime of exploration across styles, genres, and continents.
Bobby’s musical education was as diverse as it was immersive—from childhood piano lessons to threading reel-to-reel tapes of his father’s classical, jazz, and world mu...
Breaking Into Audio Description: Advocacy, Access & Authentic Storytelling // Alex Howard #2251
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Alex Howard — a young entertainment professional with over five years of administrative experience across film and TV development. An advocate for audio description and a champion for disability inclusion, Alex brings a unique perspective as a low vision professional navigating Hollywood. A 2020 alum of RespectAbility’s Entertainment Lab for professionals with disabilities, Alex shares how their lived experience informs their advocacy for more accessible and authentic storytelling. Tune in for an insightful conversation about challenging industry norms, checking privilege, and making entertainment truly inclusive for all.
Jo...
Breaking Into Neurodiverse Storytelling: Empowering Artists Through Media - Jason Weissbrod #1252
In this inspiring episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Jason Weissbrod—a dynamic director, actor, producer, writer, and the co-founder of Spectrum Laboratory.
With a career spanning film, television, web series, commercials, and theatre, Jason has spent the past 15+ years building creative pathways for neurodivergent and autistic artists. His work with The Miracle Project, Tree Academy, The Help Group, Autism On The Seas, and CSUN’s Teenage Drama Workshop helped spark a powerful mission: to elevate neurodiverse voices in the entertainment industry.
Through Spectrum Laboratory (Spec Labs), Jason and his team empower arti...
Breaking Into Sound: Composing a Future Beyond Limits // Philip Mantione #5251
What does it take to turn sound into a language of possibility? In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we journey into the expansive world of experimental sound art, composition, and multimedia with Philip Mantione — a Los Angeles-based sound artist whose career challenges the boundaries of traditional music and embraces a world where creativity is unlimited.
With over two decades of experience, Mantione has composed for orchestra, chamber ensembles, computer, and multimedia environments, often using custom software to layer field recordings, samples, and computer-generated sound. His work spans fixed media, interactive performance, sound installations, and experimental video, em...
Breaking Into Soundscapes: Crafting Connection Through House // Tim Palm #1251
Swedish electronic artist Tim Palm joins Breaking the Biz to discuss creativity, community, and breaking into the music industry on his own terms. From custom looping tech to AI's role in music, this episode explores the space between sound and connection—and what it means to truly vibe.
Known for his immersive style and genre-defying house tracks, Tim rejuvenates the fundamentals of House subculture by creating sonic experiences that bring people together—especially those who often feel left out of traditional spaces.
With over 140,000 followers and 92 million views, Tim has built a global community through play...
Breaking Into Visibility: Building Community Through Chronic Illness // Nikita Chopra #12242
After living with severely debilitating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for over 30 years, Nitika Chopra spent much of her life feeling isolated by her health struggles. For years, she believed this loneliness was a personal flaw—until she began opening up and discovered a shared sense of invisibility among others with chronic illness.
In this powerful episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into Nitika’s extraordinary journey—from being a vibrant media personality and beauty brand ambassador to launching Chronicon, a groundbreaking community for those living with chronic conditions. With the success of Chronicon’s sold-out NYC debut an...
Breaking Into Inclusion: Reimagining Autism in Entertainment // Judi Uttal # 12241
How do we bridge the gap between neurodivergent talent and meaningful employment in Hollywood? In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we speak with Judi Uttal, president of the Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG) and founder of the Autism In Entertainment Workgroup. Drawing from a powerful mix of personal experience and professional insight, Judi shares how her advocacy work—spanning career training, policy reform, and industry partnerships—is opening doors for autistic individuals in the entertainment world. Judi also reflects on raising her son Josh, now a college graduate in Cinema and Television, and how his journey shaped...
Breaking Into Entrepreneurship: Franchising the Arts with Purpose
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we speak with Oksana® Kolesnikova, a classically trained pianist turned entrepreneur and educator, who has built a thriving business at the intersection of the arts and education. As CEO of Oksana® Franchising International, Inc., and founder of Oksana® Management Group, Oksana® Enrichment Programs, and the Oksana® Foundation, she shares how she transformed her passion for music into a multi-branch enterprise that empowers both students and educators.
We explore Oksana’s journey from artist to business leader, the challenges and rewards of launching a franchise, and how she’s helping others become en...
Breaking Into Music Management: Strategy, Success & The Spotlight // Mike Holland #3251
What does it take to guide an artist from underground buzz to mainstream success? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Holland, the powerhouse manager behind Grammy-nominated artists like Logic and 6ix. With years of experience in music, film, and social media management, Mike has mastered the art of artist development, marketing strategy, and navigating the ever-evolving music industry.
From consulting with major labels to mapping out viral marketing campaigns, Mike shares insider knowledge on what makes an artist stand out, the challenges of breaking into the business, and how streaming and social media are redefining...
Breaking into Stand-Up: Comedy Without Limits // Steve Way #11242
Laughter has no barriers, and neither does Steve! By day, he's shaping young minds as a substitute teacher, but by night, he takes the stage as a stand-up comedian, proving that humor and perseverance go hand in hand. Born with Muscular Dystrophy, Steve has never let his disability define him—whether he's performing in New York's comedy clubs, giving motivational speeches across the country, or starring in the web series Uplifting Dystrophy. In this episode, we dive into Steve's journey in comedy, the challenges of breaking into the entertainment industry with a disability, and the importance of representation in me...
Breaking into Production: Crafting Accessibility in Entertainment // Jeff Prushko # 11241
For the past decade, Jeff has been making his mark in the entertainment industry as a key player at Videndum Production Solutions. Born and raised in Connecticut, Jeff was diagnosed at birth with arthrogryposis and has used a wheelchair for mobility throughout his life. His passion for the industry is matched by his commitment to disability advocacy, educating others on accessibility and inclusion wherever he can.
In this episode, we explore Jeff’s journey into production, his role in supporting a diverse range of creators—from independent content creators to major film studios—and th...
Breaking into Innovation: Designing Tech for Everyone // Haim Kairy #10243
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we explore how creativity, technology, and determination converge to redefine accessibility. Our guest, Haim Kairy, co-founder of Arcana Instruments, shares his remarkable journey from a career in cyber defense and tech consulting to developing the world’s first inclusive music instrument. With a rich background as a software developer, musician, and entrepreneur, Haim has consistently challenged the idea that innovation has limits. Discover how his latest venture, Arcana Instruments, is breaking barriers and empowering musicians of all abilities to express themselves. Whether you're passionate about music, tech, or inclusion, this episode will le...
Breaking into Festivals: Crafting Unforgettable Experiences // Laurie B. Kirby Esq.
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we’re joined by Laurie B. Kirby, Esq., a trailblazing producer, attorney, and thought leader in the entertainment and events industry. As the powerhouse behind FestForums and Best of the Fests, Laurie brings decades of experience shaping unforgettable festivals that celebrate music, film, food, and wine.
From her beginnings as a prominent attorney representing professional athletes and nonprofits to founding The Legends of the LPGA, Laurie’s journey exemplifies innovation and resilience. She shares her expertise on creating exceptional fan and talent experiences, her insights into the ever-changing festival landscape, and...
Breaking into Production: The Art of Storytelling on Screen // Evan B. Stone #10242
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Evan B. Stone, a powerhouse in the world of production, cinematography, and documentary filmmaking. From groundbreaking projects like Expedition Unknown, Naked & Afraid, and Shark Week to his Emmy-winning work, Evan shares his journey of breaking into the entertainment industry, crafting compelling stories, and navigating the challenges of producing award-winning content. With decades of experience spanning The Amazing Race to Al Gore’s Current TV, Evan’s insights will inspire aspiring filmmakers and storytellers alike. Tune in to hear about the creative process behind some of your favorite shows, the...
Breaking into Animation: From Storyboards to Supervising Director // Jake Hollander #10241
Jake Hollander joins us to discuss his incredible journey through the world of animation as a Supervising Director, Writer, and Creator. From working on fan-favorite series like Krapopolis and Duncanville to creating original IPs, Jake shares how his love of storytelling—shaped by fantasy and sci-fi classics like those of Isaac Asimov and J.R.R. Tolkien—informs his creative process. Tune in to hear how Jake’s passion for mythology, history, and collaboration fuels his success in the entertainment industry!
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Breaking into Live TV: The Pressure and Payoff of Going Live // Philip Dvorak #9244
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of live television with Philip Dvorak, an accomplished associate director with 20 years of experience in TV production. Phil specializes in control room operations for live news and sports programming, ensuring all elements are perfectly timed and ready for directors to execute on-air.
From his nearly two-decade tenure with Access Hollywood to his Emmy-winning work on FOX NFL Sunday, Phil shares stories and insights from behind the scenes of some of TV’s most iconic moments. He discusses the intricacies of working in live br...
Breaking into Accessibility: Fan Services in Entertainment // Jon Bell #9243
In this episode, we explore the role of accessibility in entertainment with the Live Nation Director of Fan Services & Accessibility for Venues. Discover how scalable, fan-centered programs and seamless experiences are designed for fans of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. From conducting accessibility audits to collaborating across teams, this conversation reveals the challenges and triumphs of creating inclusive spaces in a high-traffic, multi-location organization. Tune in for an inspiring look at how accessibility is reshaping the fan journey in entertainment.
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Breaking Into Performing & Artistic Identity // EMM #9242
Emma “EMM” Norris is an American alternative-pop singer, songwriter, producer, and content creator from Traverse City, Michigan, based in Los Angeles.She was one of the first women to release a full-length album, “Burning in the Dark,” which she created in its entirety from start to finish, including writing, producing, performing, mixing and mastering.Â
Curve (magazine) described EMM, saying, "She is the definition of a thriving independent artist: calling all the shots in her own career, making her visions come to life, having a hand in every sonic choice and every melody you hear, betting on herself, and stand...
Breaking Boundaries: Documentary Filmmaking for Disability Justice // Zian Chavez #9241
Original Recording Date: 9/16/24
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Zian Chavez, producer of We Are the Most Beautiful People | Adults with Disabilities, an award-winning documentary that’s reshaping perceptions of beauty and disability worldwide. Through compelling stories from adults with disabilities across cultures, the film confronts ableism, racism, and the distinction between Disability Rights and Disability Justice. Zian shares insights from the film’s journey through international festivals and the transformative impact of representing the lived experiences of people with disabilities. Join us as we explore how this groundbreaking documentary challenges norms and redefines the mean...
Breaking Barriers in Music // Episode 8246 - Carly Webster
Original Recording Date: August 22
Carly Webster joins us and brings many important topics to the table, including her personal journey from fan to advocate, and the importance of accessible concert experiences. Carly shares how her teenage years spent in entertainment fandom opened her eyes to the deep lack of representation and support for disabled people in music spaces. At just 15, she founded a nonprofit dedicated to breaking down these barriers, proving that music should be accessible to all.
In this episode, Carly reflects on her experiences working with artist teams, delivering a TEDx...
Breaking Boundaries: Redefining Female Stories and Neurodivergent Advocacy // Zhara Astra #8245
Original Recording Date: August 19, 2024
Zhara is the president and CEO of Auracle Productions-- a female owned and operated production company that celebrates the badasserie of women worldwide. The company writes, develops, and produces television, film, and media content that highlights female-driven stories and book adaptations with authentic female characters.
Zhara is also an innovator in the field of autism after becoming an autism advocate, international public speaker, author, as well as the world's first professor of female Neurodivergent studies after developing the first course of its kind at Arizona State University.
...
Breaking Into Entrepeneurship & Kid's Entertainment // Episode #8244 - Kenn Viselman
Original Recording Date: Aug. 14, 2024
Viselman has achieved something close to legendary status …” New York Times. A true showman, Viselman has an unmatched reputation for taking unknown or faltering toy properties and turning them into overnight sensations… many liken him to the Tom Hanks character in the movie “Big," a kid in a grownup's body…” Inc Magazine. By the age of 30, Viselman was responsible for over $2 billion in sales.Â
By 40, skyrocketing to $12 billion. It's now estimated he is associated with over US $27billion dollars in global success. Viselman, has created, produced, marketed and or consulted on 50+ projec...
Breaking Into a Music Career // Episode #8243 - Nomad "The Career Musician"
Original Recording Date: August 12, 2024
Believe it or not, you’ve probably already heard Nomad’s guitar playing! With an impressive resume that spans countless TV shows and movie scores, Nomad has also shared the stage and studio with musical icons like Aretha Franklin, Beyoncé, Celine Dion, Sting, and many more. In this episode, Nomad takes us through his journey from a passionate musician to a true Career Musician. He shares how he turned a passion-project podcast into a thriving platform for musical excellence and what it means to build a sustainable, lifelong career in music. If yo...
Breaking Into Film: Empowering Disabled Creators with Purpose // Episode 8242 - Alex Astrella
Original Recording Date: August 7, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Alex, a visionary visual artist and founder of Blu Star Productions LLC, based in Orange County, California. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of two, Alex was once told he would never be able to hold a job. Fast forward 24 years, and Alex has defied the odds, winning multiple awards and receiving national recognition for his groundbreaking documentary films. Alex shares his journey into the world of filmmaking, how it became his passion and purpose, and his mission to empower creators with disabilities through his...
Animating Cultural Identity: Breaking Barriers in the Animation Industry // Episode 8241 - Jorge R. Gutierrez
Original Recording Date: Aug. 1, 2024
Emmy and Annie Award-winning Jorge R. Gutierrez joins us to discuss his remarkable journey in the animation industry. Proudly on the autism spectrum, Jorge shares how his Mexican heritage and passion for pop and folk culture have shaped his creative vision. From directing the Golden Globe-nominated "The Book of Life" to the Emmy-winning series "El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera," Jorge's work redefines storytelling. In this episode, we explore his latest projects, including the Netflix event series "Maya and the Three" and his upcoming feature "I, Chihuahua." Join us for an...
From Field to Studio: Navigating Sports Media // Breaking The Biz Podcast // Jason Galvin #7245
Original Recording Date: July 26, 2024
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we’re thrilled to sit down with Jason Galvin, a seasoned sports broadcaster who has worn many hats in the world of journalism. From covering breaking news for USA Today Sports to play-by-play announcing on the Pac-12 Digital Networks, Jason’s journey has taken him to some of the most exciting corners of the sports world.
Now the official announcer for the NHRA and the voice of CSU Bakersfield baseball, Jason shares his experience navigating the broadcasting industry, his transition from sports to n...
Breaking Barriers in Tech and Beyond // Episode 7244 - Lola Rheaume
Original Recording Date: July 24, 2024
In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we talk with Lola Rheaume, a trailblazer in tech and a fierce advocate for queer, femme, and neurodivergent individuals. Lola shares her journey of pursuing a career as a Solutions Architect while attending Austin Community College’s Software Engineering program. As someone who is AUDHD and living with PTSD, Lola opens up about navigating the tech industry with unconventional experiences and how she's working to increase visibility for those like her.
Lola discusses her passion for building tools to streamline business operations, he...
Breaking Into Voiceover Work // Episode 7243 - Simone Serra
Original Recording Date: July 17, 2024
In this episode, we dive into the world of voiceover artistry with Simone Serra, a seasoned performer who has mastered the art of storytelling to elevate brand messages with authenticity and impact. With over 20 years of acting experience and five years in the voiceover industry, Simone shares how she keeps a pulse on what’s trending, marketable, and memorable in today’s competitive landscape. Her expertise has earned the trust of top brands like Samsung, "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert," and Ulta Beauty. Join us as we explore Simone’s collaborative approa...
Breaking Into Comic Books // Episode 7242 - Mark McKenna
Original Recording Date: July 8, 2024
In this captivating episode of "Breaking the Biz," the hosts explore the storied career of Mark McKenna, a comic book creator with 38 years of experience at the helm of some of the most iconic titles in the industry. With nearly 1,000 comics to his name and over 12,000 pages showcasing his ink work, Mark has left an indelible mark on both Marvel and DC Comics, contributing to legendary series such as The X-Men, Spider-Man, Batman, and The Justice League.
The episode delves into Mark's extensive portfolio, including his contributions to major projects...
