Broadway Vocal Coach
by Broadway Vocal Coach
The Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast is your home base for practical vocal training, musical theatre voice technique, and honest conversations about building a career as a performer. Hosted by Broadway vocal coach and voice teacher Chelsea Wilson, each episode explores the real-life challenges singers face—from vocal technique, mix voice, and healthy belting to audition preparation, performance mindset, and navigating the musical theatre industry. If you're a musical theatre singer looking to strengthen your voice and feel more confident in the audition room and on stage, you're in the right place!
Episodes
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10 Variables to Color Your Singing: Part 2
“Sing it with more feeling” is pretty unhelpful advice if you don’t know what to actually change... In part two of this series, we’re exploring five more variables you can use to make specific, compelling choices: articulation, dynamics, phrasing, rhythm, and ornamentation. These aren’t boxes to...
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10 Variables to Color Your Singing: Part 1
You’re hitting the notes... So why does the song still feel a little… meh? Sometimes the missing piece is a more specific vocal choice. In part one of this two-part series, I’m singing through five variables you can use to bring more color, style, and storytelling to your songs: registration,...
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103. How Emily Kristen Morris Built Her Legit Voice. Cross Training, Style, and Genre Bending
What happens when a longtime belter has to get back into legit singing shape? This week Chelsea sits down with her dear friend and student, the incredible Emily Kristen Morris! To talk all about vocal cross-training, rebuilding legit technique after years of contemporary singing, and what it...
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102. What Directors Really Notice in the Audition Room with Tim Seib
Chelsea sits down with stage director Tim Seib to talk about what happens on the other side of the table... and we think we may have solved the "too much material for a self tape" problem once and for all!!! Tim is a longtime director at Theatre Raleigh, where he has helmed productions including...
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101. Is Your Technique Disappearing in the Room? (+ Office Hours: "Think of Me")
Ever notice that your voice feels solid in the practice room… but suddenly falls apart in auditions, rehearsals, or performances? In this episode, Chelsea breaks down a frustrating experience many singers know well: when your technique seems to disappear the moment the stakes get higher. You’ll...
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Episode 100. Turning the Page
Can you believe we've made it to 100 episodes?! Neither can we!! Today we're celebrating, but we're also sharing an important update about what’s next. As Broadway Vocal Coach evolves, we’re closing this chapter of the podcast as you’ve known it. We're each moving on to new creative projects and...
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99. What to Do When Your Voice Feels "Off"
What do you do when your voice just… doesn’t feel right? In this episode, we walk through exactly how to troubleshoot those frustrating days when your voice feels fuzzy, crunchy, tired, or unreliable — and how to know when it’s time to rest, adjust your technique, or call in professional help. We...
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98. Self-Tape Survival Guide: How to Stand Out in 3 Takes or Less
Self-tape takes aren’t rehearsal. They’re the performance! In this episode, we're letting you in on our Self-Tape Survival Guide — from setup basics (lighting, sound, framing, eye line) to performance choices and the mindset shift that will save you hours of frustration. You’ll learn: How to...
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97. Vocal Health for College MT Auditions: Staying Strong in Not-So-Ideal Conditions
Frigid winter weather, germs abound, and someone decided THIS is audition season?! Whether you’re a high school senior heading into college auditions or a professional preparing for a busy season of tapes and callbacks, this conversation is packed with practical, real-world vocal health…
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96. Vocal Health Mythbusting — What Singers Actually Need in Busy Seasons
Is clearing my throat bad for my voice? Will dairy make my voice crack? Is belting going to give me nodes? If you’re a singer I’m sure you’ve heard some of these before and wonder, is there any truth to that? In today's replay episode (one of our most popular ever!) we’re dispelling vocal health...
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95. Stop Raising the Bar: A Thanksgiving Reset for Performers
What if the life you’re living right now… is the one you used to dream about? Today we're taking a brief step away from vocal technique and auditions to talk about something equally essential for performers: gratitude, perspective, and the surprising power of taking stock of what’s already good....
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94. What It Takes to Sing Christine Daaé Eight Shows a Week with Haile Ferrier and Francesca Mehrotra
What does it really take to perform one of the most iconic soprano roles in theatre history? (Hint: it’s more than high notes and pretty gowns!) In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Haile Ferrier and Francesca Mehrotra, two of the six extraordinary women starring as Christine in Masquerade…
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93. Why You Still Sound ‘Too Musical Theatre’ in Pop/Rock Auditions (and How to Fix It)
What does "you sound too musical theatre" actually mean?? (Hint: it’s rarely just about your voice) Today we're giving you clear, actionable tools to bridge the stylistic gap between Broadway polish and pop/rock authenticity. In this episode, we unpack: The most common “too musical theatre”...
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92. Everything’s Coming Up Elizabeth Teeter: Protecting Your Joy and Your Voice
At just 23, Elizabeth Teeter has already built a career most performers dream of—starring as Lydia in Beetlejuice on Broadway, Heather McNamara in Heathers Off-Broadway, and sharing the stage with legends like Helen Mirren and Saoirse Ronan. But behind all that success is a young artist who’s...
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91. What You Actually Need in Your Audition Book: Adam Wachter on Finding Rep That Works
“At a certain level, everyone can sing that note. So now casting is saying: who are you?” – Adam Wachter How do you actually build a musical theatre audition book that works? What songs belong in it—and which ones can you finally stop worrying about? Chelsea and Cynthia sit down with Titanique...
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90. BONUS: Is a BFA in MT (Still) Worth It? With College Audition Expert Julie Kavanagh
Back in 2022, we first asked the question: Is a BFA in Musical Theatre worth it? Three years later, it’s still the conversation on every aspiring performer’s (and parent’s) mind. In today’s bonus episode, Chelsea sits down with Julie Kavanagh—performer, choreographer, and Program Director for...
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89. Inside the Casting Room with Kate Lumpkin: What Casting Directors Really Want to See
“The most useful thing you can do on social media is show who the heck you really are.” – Kate Lumpkin What do casting directors really notice—in the audition room and online? Chelsea and Cynthia sit down with casting director Kate Lumpkin for an inside look at how performers can stand out…
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88. 4 Mix Voice Myths You're Still Believing
Mix voice might be the most misunderstood topic in all of singing. Is it a style? A register? A magic “secret” only some people can do? In this episode, Chelsea and Cynthia bust FOUR of the biggest mix voice myths and share what it really means to sing in a healthy mixed voice. You’ll hear: Why...
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87. From Stage to Page: Ali Gordon on Creativity Beyond the Spotlight
What kind of courage it takes to keep creating when your career takes unexpected turns? Our guest Ali Gordon has worn a lot of hats—musical theatre performer, comedian, teacher, and now, debut novelist! In this inspiring conversation, Ali joins Chelsea and Cynthia to talk all about just that. Her...
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86. Season Premiere: Masquerade, Hello Dolly, and The Courage to Conjure the Silly
Welcome back to Season 4 of the Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast! In this season opener, Chelsea and Cynthia catch up after a jam-packed summer and share the lessons they’re bringing into the year ahead. From Chelsea’s behind-the-scenes work on the new immersive Phantom production (Masquerade) to...
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85. Season Finale: How Much is Too Much? Embracing Cringe and Being Yourself
Just last week we heard from one of our BVC Studio members: "I don't want to be too much." Is this same fear holding you back from your best work? And, is there a line between enough and too much? In our 2025 season finale, join us for a discussion about how going all out can transform your…
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84. Own Your Role: Being the Likable Badass Version of You with Dr. Alison Fragale
"You already have worth, we're not trying to trick people into believing that we're something we're not. So, how do I get you to see my skills, talents, and values such that you recognize them and therefore see how being in a relationship with me is mutually beneficial?" Chelsea Wilson chats with...
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83. "Choreographing Attention" in Your Self-Tapes with Tom Lipinski from 'Suits'
"If you haven't done the fundamentals, that's all I'm thinking about. What a self tape is, is choreographing the attention of the viewer." Acclaimed actor, podcast producer, and star of "Suits," Tom Lipinski shares crucial insights on the art of self-taping, like when to break the rules 📸 and...
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82. Should You Move to New York City for Your Theatre Career?
Should you move to New York City to pursue a career in musical theater? 🎭 We explore the pros and cons, from networking opportunities and live auditions to the high cost of living and tiny spaces. 🗽 Hear personal stories and get practical advice on making the leap, including tips on saving…
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81. The Key To Navigating Performance Stress with Kevin Munhall
Join Cynthia Kortman Westphal as she chats with Kevin Munhall, a Broadway performer turned stress, breath, and somatic educator. Kevin shares his unique insights into how performers can manage stress and anxiety, 😫 emphasizing the importance of understanding their nervous systems and emotions...
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80. Why Do You Need to Master Pop Rock? Looking at the Current Broadway Season and Beyond
Of all the musicals currently running on Broadway, all but 3 are firmly under the genre umbrella of Pop/Rock or are significantly influenced by pop/rock music. And that trend is felt in regional theaters and beyond. What does that mean for you? 80-90% of your auditions may be asking for a…
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79. Vocal Cross Training: Unlock Your Full Singing Potential!
" You need that well-roundedness to bring new life, experience, and choices to the material that you're exploring as a singer!" Discover how learning to sing in multiple styles can benefit your technique, artistry, and imagination. Whether you're a classic soprano, an aspiring pop star, or a...
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78. Everything's Coming Up Joel Crump! Broadway's youngest journalist says: don't wait for it to happen to you
Join Co-hosts Cynthia Kortman Westphal and Chelsea Wilson as they sit down with Joel Crump, Broadway's boy genius who's been interviewing stars on red carpets since the age of 12! Now 16, Joel shares how his love for Broadway led him to create his own company, Broadway Time, at just 12 years old...
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77. From Fraud to Fearless: Turning the Tables on Imposter Syndrome
Is "imposter syndrome" ruining your life? Are you clinging to it as a safety net, afraid to self-assess what's actually needed for your personal growth...? In this episode, hosts Cynthia Kortman Westphal and Chelsea Wilson dive deep into the topic of imposter syndrome and how it affects…
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76: The Parents' Perspective: College Musical Theatre Auditions! How to support your child and stay sane in the process
Co-host Chelsea Wilson is joined by two very wise parents on today's episode! Rachel Hart Klayman is from Ann Arbor, MI and is the mom of a sophomore acting student at NYU. And Erica Fischer is from Ames, IA and the mom of a senior in high school. At two very different points in the journey (a…
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75. Everything's Coming Up Cara Rose DiPietro! Social Media, Mental Health, and Forging Your Own Career
Join Broadway Vocal Coach co-host Chelsea Wilson for an inspirational and candid conversation with Cara Rose DiPietro! 🌟 Cara opens up about her journey from community theater in Massachusetts to becoming a professional actor and prominent influencer with over 300,000 followers. She discusses…
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74.2 What Music Directors Really Want, Pop/Rock Edition with Wendy Cavett
In this episode, Cynthia sits down with the incredible Wendy Cavett— music director, supervisor, arranger, educator, conductor, pianist, and incredible vocal coach—to dive deep into the world of pop/rock in musical theatre. With Broadway and Off-Broadway credits including Come From Away…
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74. How Pop/Rock is Reshaping the Broadway Industry: An Inside Look with Sydney Morton
Join Cynthia and Broadway & TV performer Sydney Morton for a deep dive into how pop/rock has become a must-have skill in the Broadway industry. Sydney shares her journey—from classical theatre training to singing jazz and R&B at home—only to find that nearly 90% of her musical theatre career has...
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73. 8 Dumb Mistakes That are Ruining Your Self Tapes!
Self tapes are here to stay, whether we like them or not! They're part of the industry, whether you are auditioning for professional shows, applying to college, or anything in between. In today's conversation, we're laying out eight dumb mistakes that ruin your self tapes, because between the two...
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72. Pop/Rock Essentials: Vocal Technique, Audition Strategies, and the Magic of Blending Pop & Theatre with Matt Perri
Cynthia and one of her dear friends, the hilarious and talented Matt Perri, dive into the challenges and nuances of pop/rock in musical theatre. What makes it so tricky to balance authenticity with storytelling? How can performers bring the style to life while keeping their voices sustainable…
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71. Shall We Dance? Live Auditions, Prescreens, and Being Yourself at a Dance Call with Marjorie Failoni
If the idea of a dance call makes you want to cry into your audition book, good news! This episode is full of practical tips to prepare for and stand out at (in a good way!) a dance call. Plus, how to prepare college audition prescreen videos and do your best under any circumstance at Unifieds or...
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70. Unifieds, Prepping for Live College Auditions, and How to Avoid the Noise! With Julie Kavanagh
" Notice that we don't say: in order to have a successful audition, you have to sing the loudest, or kick your leg the highest..." Instead, we're talking about: showing up as your best self, and taking care of your mental, physical, and emotional health so that you can have a positive and present...
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69. What Makes a Good or Bad Audition Song?
Struggling to find the perfect audition song? Whether you’re gearing up for Broadway, community theater, or those nerve-wracking college prescreens, finding the right fit can feel like an impossible task. In this episode, Chelsea and Cynthia break down what makes an audition song work—and what...
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68. Bel Canto and Bathrooms: Building Your Own Opportunities with Teddy Siegel
In this episode, Chelsea and Cynthia sit down with the inspiring Teddy Siegel, a soprano, advocate, and the creative force behind Got2Go NYC. Teddy opens up about balancing artistry with advocacy, the power of storytelling, and embracing vulnerability to build meaningful connections online. From...
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67. Everything's Coming Up Mary Kate Morrissey! Elphaba, Vocal Health, and Self Care
What does it take to star as Elphaba on Broadway? As Mary Kate (MK) reveals, it is not for the faint of heart! From her vocal health non-negotiables, to who makes up her voice and self-care team, we're talking all the nitty gritty of her routine and mindset in order to play one of the toughest...
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66. Singing Q&A: Mix Voice, Vocal Health, and More!
Get 30% off ALL Broadway Vocal Coach courses and subscriptions! It's our biggest and ONLY sale of the year! Because you deserve to step off the sidelines and onto the stage. And we've got the training and support to get you there! www.bwayvocalcoach.com Ever worried you might be "singing from…
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65. Bloom Where You're Planted: Local Theatre and Theatre for Young Audiences with Danny Campos
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with theatre artist, educator, and arts administrator Danny Campos. As the Director of Marketing at The Growing Stage, the Children's Theatre of New Jersey, Danny brings two decades of experience across performing, directing, and teaching. In this episode…
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64. We Are Not Throwing Away Our Shot! Tips for Headshots and Lifestyle Shoots
Planning a photo shoot? In this episode, Chelsea & Cynthia dive into the essential tips for planning a successful headshot or branding photo shoot. Drawing from their own experiences, they share the mistakes they made during an impromptu shoot in 2022 and the valuable lessons they learned to make...
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63. What is College Really Like? Catching up with Katy and Ezra
In this follow-up episode, Chelsea reconnects with BVC Aspire alums Ezra Moore and Katy Olson, one year after their initial interview on the BVC Podcast! At that time, they were about to begin their college journeys—Ezra at Oklahoma City University for a BM in Music Theater, and Katy at…
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62. Voice Teacher Certifications: Is It Right for You?
Let's dive into the world of voice teacher certification! From Cynthia's piano and opera coaching roots to Chelsea's private voice teaching, we discuss the challenges of working in high-stakes environments like Broadway, and the critical role of understanding vocal health. Whether you're a...
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61. Remembering Gavin Creel: "You Are Enough, You Do Have Worth."
We’re replaying our conversation with Gavin Creel in the hopes that his life, talent, and love will be an inspiration and a comfort to you. Since his passing, many of us have been reflecting on the impact he’s had on us personally and on the theatre community as a whole. Revisiting this episode,...
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60. College Musical Theatre Auditions: Retrospective with Students Julianne and Nissi
You've heard us talk about college musical theatre auditions enough, so let's hear from some brand new college freshmen who just completed that process! We're joined by past BVC Aspire students Julianne and Nissi. Nissi is now a freshman at Texas Christian University studying musical theatre, and...
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59. Season Premiere! 4 Pieces of Inspiration to Help You Take Your Next Step
You can create a fulfilling life as an actor! As we step into season three (!) of the BVC Podcast, we are focused on our mission to inspire you to create a fulfilling artistic life, AND take the next steps in your career. You can do it! You just need the right support. And maaaayyyybe a little…
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58. Season Finale! Websites and Resumes, What You Need To Put Yourself Out There
We've said it once, and we'll say it again. Showing up online as an actor is a non-negotiable! Having an updated website and a current resume is crucial in today's audition landscape, and that's why this episode is all about what you need on both and why. Not sure what types of media to put on…
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57. We're in the Money! Financial Literacy for Actors with Kyle Timson
Savings and interest and debt, oh my! Financial literacy can be a scary topic, we know, but it's so important for actors to learn how to be in control of their money and feel more secure in such an unpredictable industry. That's why we brought our friend Kyle Timson to the podcast today to teach…
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About this show
The Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast is your home base for practical vocal training, musical theatre voice technique, and honest conversations about building a career as a performer.
Hosted by Broadway vocal coach and voice teacher Chelsea Wilson, each episode explores the real-life challenges singers face—from vocal technique, mix voice, and healthy belting to audition preparation, performance mindset, and navigating the musical theatre industry.
If you're a musical theatre singer looking to strengthen your voice and feel more confident in the audition room and on stage, you're in the right place!
Hosted by
Broadway Vocal Coach