The Artist Behind the Art

Competitions or festivals— What are the main differences?And more importantly… are you choosing the right one for where you are in your career?In this episode, I sit down with Julian McTaggart to break down what these experiences actually look like—on stage, behind the scenes, and in how they impact your growth as an artist.We talk about: – what rehearsal time really looks like – how to prepare when you only get minutes on stage – the role of networking (and why it matters more than you think) – and how to use both competitions and festivals strategicallyIf you’ve ever thought about doing either—this is a conversation you need to hear.🎧 Episode out now on The Artist Behind the Art💾 Save this for when you’re planning your next step 🔁 Share with an artist who’s navigating their path right nowThanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

What you do after a performance matters just as much as what happens on stage.In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer breaks down how to evaluate your act after a show in a way that actually leads to growth—without spiraling into overthinking or self-criticism.You’ll learn: How to reflect on your performance with clarity  The key questions that reveal what’s working (and what’s not)  How to separate emotion from objective evaluation  What to focus on to improve your act faster  How to turn every performance into progress If you want to refine your act, grow as an artist, and make each performance stronger than the last—this episode is for you.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

We’ve all heard it: you have to get through 100 no’s before your first yes.But what no one talks about… is what happens after that first yes.In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer dives into the reality of building a sustainable career as a circus artist—especially the space between contracts. The part of the journey where doubt creeps in, questions start stacking, and the path can feel uncertain.This episode is about learning to trust the process, understanding what’s actually happening behind the scenes of your career growth, and how to use the “gap” to your advantage.In This Episode, We Cover: Why the time between contracts is normal (and necessary)  The truth about consistent work in circus (it’s not just talent)  How reputation is built—and why it matters more than you think  The qualities that actually get you rehired  The challenge of being both an artist and your own business  What to do when you feel stuck, uncertain, or behind  How to stay visible and relevant in the industry  Why refining your materials can change how casting sees you  How to use the “gap” as a period of growth, not failure  The role of side hustles in supporting a sustainable career Key TakeawayYou’re not just trying to get work—you’re building a reputation.And that reputation is built through: how you show up  how you collaborate  how consistently you perform  and how you handle the moments in between Consistent work isn’t immediate. It’s earned through trust over time.Reflection PromptAsk yourself: How am I showing up in every rehearsal, show, and interaction?Join the ConversationIf this episode resonated with you, share it with another artist who’s navigating the in-between.And connect with the podcast here: 👉 Follow on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheartThanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Your Reputation Enters the Room Before You Dowith Cheryl AnnWhat happens when you say yes to something completely outside your comfort zone?In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer sits down with performer Cheryl Ann, whose career journey took an unexpected turn from musical theatre into the world of Cirque du Soleil.What began as a recommendation from a friend turned into a seven-hour audition, stepping far outside of her comfort zone—and ultimately landing a role in La Nouba that would shape the next chapter of her career.Cheryl Ann shares the real behind-the-scenes lessons artists rarely talk about: what casting is actually looking for, why versatility matters, and how your reputation can open doors long before you enter the room.In this episode, we discuss:• Cheryl Ann’s unexpected transition from musical theatre to circus • What really happens in a Cirque du Soleil audition room • Why confidence matters more than trying to show everything you can do • The power of versatility and acquiring multiple skills • Why saying yes to opportunities outside your comfort zone can change your career • The truth about submissions and audition preparation today • The most important career advice for performers: your reputation enters the room before you doIf you’re an artist navigating auditions, submissions, or trying to build a sustainable performing career, this episode is full of insight and encouragement.Because sometimes the biggest opportunities come from simply saying yes.Join the conversationWhat opportunity have you said yes to that changed your path?Share your thoughts and connect with the podcast community on Instagram:Follow: @theartistbehindtheartIf this episode resonated with you, be sure to save it, share it with another artist, and help us continue supporting the artists behind the work.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

What is your artistic voice — and can you clearly communicate it when it matters most?In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer breaks down what she calls your artistic voice: your ability to introduce yourself confidently at an audition, explain your act in words, and articulate what makes you unique as an artist in a highly competitive industry.For many circus artists and performers, talent lives naturally in the body — but not always in language. This episode explores how to bridge that gap so casting panels, directors, choreographers, and collaborators can better understand who you are, what your work expresses, and what value you bring to a production.Jennifer shares practical ways to practice audition introductions, improve your on-camera video submissions, and start putting language to your creative work so you can show up more clearly and confidently in every opportunity.In This Episode, We CoverWhat “artistic voice” actually meansHow to introduce yourself at an audition with clarity and confidenceWhy practicing audition questions is just as important as practicing your skillsA simple way to buy yourself time when you feel put on the spotHow to improve the way you come across in video submissionsWhy your submission setup matters: lighting, sound, space, and clothingHow to start putting words to your act and creative workWhy explaining your act helps refine and elevate itHow to identify and communicate what makes you unique as an artistWhy clarity helps you not only say yes to the right opportunities — but walk away from the wrong onesKey TakeawayYour artistic voice is not just what you create — it’s how clearly you can communicate it.When you take time to put words to who you are, what your work expresses, and what makes you unique, you give yourself the power to connect more authentically and show up more confidently in your next audition or submission.Reflection PromptTake time to reflect on these three questions:How do I introduce myself as an artist?Can I clearly explain what my act is about?What do I bring to the table that is unique and valuable?Your answers to those questions can become one of your greatest tools.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

What does it actually take to sustain a career on tour?In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I’m joined by professional circus artist Elise Southwick, currently touring with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. From cruise ships across the Mediterranean to bus tours across the U.S., Elise shares what it really looks like to maintain your discipline, your strength, and your professionalism while constantly on the move.We begin with something simple — but powerful: How you introduce yourself matters.Elise shares the exact approach she uses when reaching out to studio owners while on tour — and why professionalism, clarity, and preparation are what open doors.We also dive into:How to maintain your primary discipline while performing a different trackStrength training for aerialists (yes — barbell squats and deadlifts)Why lifting heavy doesn’t mean “bulking up”The difference between ship contracts, bus tours, and resident-style workHow to structure training when you’re performing 8 shows a weekThe importance of habits for physical, mental, and spiritual longevityElise speaks honestly about finding the “sweet spot” between overworking and underworking — and why career sustainability comes down to the habits you build when no one is watching.If you’re an emerging circus artist, currently touring, or dreaming of your first big contract, this conversation is a masterclass in how to stay ready — and stay professional.Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship begins March 23rd: If you’re ready to create an act that makes an audience lean in and feel time stand still, I would love to invite you to apply and see if it’s the right fit.📩 Email: [email protected] 📱 DM: @arete.actdevelopment on InstagramReach out, and I’ll send you the application details.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Episode: What Makes a Circus Act Truly GreatYou asked for this episode—and I’ll be honest, it made me nervous to record. Because the moment we start defining “great,” people want to debate it (and they should). Art is subjective.So instead of declaring a universal truth, I’m sharing patterns I’ve witnessed over time—what consistently shows up in acts that evolve from “good” to unforgettable.This conversation doesn’t end here. I’d love for you to stay in it with me.If this episode sparked something for you, take a moment to reflect on what you believe makes an act truly great—and how that definition is shaping the work you’re creating right now.Join the conversation by following @theartistbehindtheart on Instagram, where we continue these discussions and share insights from artists across the industry.And if this episode resonated, please share it with another artist or creative friend who might need this perspective. These conversations grow stronger when we have them together.Thank you for listening, for engaging, and for being part of a community that cares deeply about craft, clarity, and intentional creation.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

What does it really take to stay healthy in a career where your body is your job?In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I sit down with Samantha Oft, PT, DPT, ATC — Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Athletic Trainer, and former Head Therapist for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba in Disney Springs. Sam has spent the past decade working with athletes and performers, bridging orthopedic rehab, emergency care, and performance support at the highest level. Samantha is one of a kind and is known for: helping artists get back to their work — and stay there.We talk about how to find a healthcare provider who actually listens, what “capacity” really means in the professional world, and why being able to do a skill once is very different than being able to do it 500 shows a year.This conversation is equal parts practical and mindset-shifting — because the goal isn’t just to heal. It’s to build a body that can sustain your career.In this episode, we cover: How to find a PT/physio who treats the whole human (and why the insurance model often blocks that)Why artists should build their care team before they’re injured What “capacity” actually means: perform → recover → repeat without breaking downThe reality of resident show schedules (and why you can’t live at 100% max output)How to increase work capacity through a “needs analysis” and specific trainingThe big misconception: skill training ≠ strength training Why strength is essential (and the truth about “getting bulky”)What recovery really is (and why it’s not the Instagram version) Sam’s two core reminders for artists:  Your body heals when you rest  Strength training is not your enemy — it’s longevityAbout Samantha Oft: Samantha Oft, PT, DPT, ATC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Certified Athletic Trainer in the Orlando, Florida area. She has worked in sports medicine and orthopedic rehab for 10+ years, including supporting Division I athletics and performers at Walt Disney World. She served as Head Therapist for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba until its closure in 2017, where she contributed to emergency and movement screening systems tailored to acrobatic work. After Cirque, she co-founded Next Level Physiotherapy and Performance, a private concierge practice dedicated to making elite-level PT and performance care accessible to more people.Key takeaway: Your act can be impressive — but if it isn’t sustainable, it isn’t professional-ready. Your goal isn’t to train harder. It’s to train smarter.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Every New Year, we set goals like the future version of ourselves has unlimited time, energy, money, and emotional capacity — and then we wonder why we burn out or fall off track by March.In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, we’re breaking down why most goal-setting fails — and how to plan in a way that actually works.This is a practical, honest conversation about capacity, sacrifice, and alignment. Instead of adding more tools or chasing more motivation, you’ll learn how to plan with the life you actually have — not the one you wish you had.I introduce two core concepts that have completely changed how I plan:Playing with your full deck of cardsStacking the deck in your favorBecause clarity alone doesn’t get you to your goals — alignment does.This episode is designed to be interactive, so grab a notebook or open your notes app and plan alongside me.In This Episode, We Cover:Why 80–90% of New Year’s goals fail (and it’s not a willpower issue)The difference between being interested and being committedThe one question most people skip: What will this goal ask me to sacrifice?How to audit your time, energy, money, and focus honestlyThe four questions that reveal what’s actually blocking your progressTwo planning approaches:Incremental but intentional progressAll-in seasons that stack the deck in your favorHow to choose the right approach for your current season of lifeWhy extraordinary progress comes from intention — not more timeHow alignment leads to peace, momentum, and fewer regretsKey Takeaway You don’t need more tools. You need honest alignment between what you want and how you’re actually living.This year isn’t about stacking more goals. It’s about playing the cards you already have — on purpose.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

What is it actually like to be part of the creation of a brand-new Cirque du Soleil production?In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, host Jennifer Pierce sits down with Alexis Bernatchez to unpack the realities of show creation from the performer’s perspective. From AXEL to Canadian contemporary circus companies, Alexis shares how characters are discovered, how ideas are born (sometimes from “failed” moments), and why honesty and adaptability are essential skills in any creation room.Together, they explore what directors actually look for in artists during creation, how performers can stay open when work is cut or reimagined, and why being yourself isn’t just encouraged — it’s required.In this episode, we cover:What’s planned vs. discovered in a brand-new show creationHow performers contribute creatively beyond their disciplineWhy mistakes and “messy” moments are part of the processAdapting from rehearsal spaces to massive arena stagesManaging pressure, checkpoints, and high-stakes feedbackThe role of authenticity, clown work, and stage presenceWhat truly makes a performer valuable in a creation environmentKey takeaway: Creation isn’t about proving perfection — it’s about showing up honestly, staying flexible, and allowing your true strengths to shape the work.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer sits down with aerialist, performer, and educator Dan Saab to talk about what it really looks like to build a circus career without a rulebook.Dan shares how he went from studying Theatre in college to working in circus full-time, performing in everything from cabaret and nightlife to large-scale productions and theme park shows — all while traveling as a sought-after workshop instructor.Together, they unpack how to navigate your path when “I want to be in Cirque du Soleil” isn’t enough of a plan, how to think about which gigs and contracts are actually a good fit, and why understanding the whole production — not just what happens onstage — makes you a stronger collaborator.They also explore the tension many artists feel between sharing their skills as a teacher and maintaining their own unique style, how to set boundaries without burning bridges, and why asking for advice from more experienced artists is one of the most powerful tools you have.In this episode, we talk about:Dan’s journey from psychology and public health major to Theatre and finally circusHow a single aerial hoop performance at Edinburgh Fringe helped him reconnect to circusWhy understanding lighting, rigging, and production makes you a better performerThe struggle artists face with long-term goals vs. short-term, actionable stepsHow mentorship and guidance can save you years of trial and errorBalancing teaching and performing — and why style and vocabulary are not the same thingKnowing when a contract or location is not a good fit (and learning that only by living it)How to think about long-term opportunities vs. the “shiny” short-term gigSimple ways to protect your energy, reset your nervous system, and stay grounded on the roadWhy newer artists should ask more questions about rates, contracts, and rigging safetyIf you’re building a circus or performing arts career and you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone would just tell me how this works,” this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and a lot to think about.🔗 Stay ConnectedFollow the podcast on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheartFollow Jennifer and Arete: @Arete.ActDevelopmentLearn more about Dan: @dan_saab If this episode resonated with you, share it with another artist who needs to hear it — and don’t forget to leave a quick review so more performers can find these conversations.Mentorship matters — and if you’re ready to strengthen your materials and show up more confidently for casting, thisThanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

⭐ Episode #7 — Show NotesPresence That Connects: Four Ways to Stand Out Without Saying a WordIn this episode, we’re breaking down the often-overlooked skill that separates solid performers from unforgettable artists: the way you show up before you ever speak.Choreographers, casting teams, and directors aren’t just watching what you do — they’re paying attention to how you enter the room, how you engage, and what your presence communicates.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:1. Why appearance isn’t about being “perfect”—it’s about signaling readinessYour clothing, grooming, and outward presentation are visual cues that communicate respect for the space, confidence, and professionalism.2. How posture becomes your first introductionYou’ll hear how your physical stance can shift your internal state — and why standing with presence actually changes how others experience you.3. The power of expression & eye contactWe explore how micro-moments of connection build trust, show engagement, and set you apart during notes, auditions, and collaboration.4. Why acknowledgment is your secret collaboration skillEnergy isn’t one-directional — it’s an exchange. A nod, a smile, or a thoughtful response says: “I see you. I hear you. I’m with you.”And that is what casting remembers.If you want to elevate not just your talent but your professionalism, your impact, and your presence — this episode is your roadmap.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Charting Your Path with Casting Director Stacy ClarkEpisode snapshotFormer elite gymnast and pro circus artist Stacy Clark ( Former Director of Casting at Cirque du Soleil) joins me to unpack how artists actually get seen, get hired, and build careers that fit their lives. We talk personalized career paths (with or without circus school), where to network so it counts, the video materials that make casting care, and how to stay on the radar—while being a great human to work with.What you’ll learnThere’s no single “right” path. Map the route that fits your strengths, timing, and life context.Clarity first, outreach second. Know your end game so your networking and submissions are strategic.Video is the driver. What reels help you get noticed (and what never gets used to hire).Range vs. identity. Show elastic range without being “everything to everyone.”Stay visible while working. Update casting and contacts without going radio silent.Humans hire humans. Reliability, communication, and presence are tie-breakers.Conversation highlights (guide, not strict timestamps)01:00 — Debunking the “magic door” myth: many paths into the industry06:30 — Self-assessment without comparison: defining your strengths + end game12:40 — Where to show up (festivals, hubs, digital) and how to network with intention20:15 — Your materials: teaser vs. full act vs. general demo (and when to use each)28:10 — Showing range the smart way (elasticity without losing your voice)35:00 — Submitting while on contract: when it’s strategic vs. a time-waster41:20 — Staying on the radar: simple update cadence that respects everyone’s time48:00 — The “good human” factor: coachability, follow-through, and fitStacy’s quick winsMake them care: Lead with the video that best proves how you perform—not just what you can do.Tailor, don’t spray: Curate submissions to the actual need; show why you’re a fit.Keep a living intro: A tight, practiced 20–30s self-intro (and a short written bio) ready to go.Update light, but regular: Short, no-ask emails when you wrap, start, or become available.Action steps for this weekDefine your aim: Write your current “end game” in one sentence.Audit your video kit: Ensure you have (a) a full uncut act, (b) a clean general demo, (c) a short teaser.Draft your 30s intro: Who you are, what you do, what makes it you.List 5 tThanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Your energy walks in before you do — and it’s often the quiet reason you get noticed, rehired, and remembered.In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer dives into one of the most overlooked skills in a performer’s toolkit: the ability to generate and direct your energy with intention.Drawing on Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor’s wisdom — “Please take responsibility for the energy you bring into the room” — this episode explores how your physical, mental, and alignment energy shape every interaction you have, from auditions to rehearsals to daily life.You’ll learn:How to recognize and shift the energy you bring into high-stress spaces like auditionsWhy emotional contagion is real — and how your energy literally shapes the atmosphere around youThe difference between reacting and responding with purposeThree key types of energy that help you show up calm, grounded, and magneticAnd how to become the person people love working with again and againBecause your talent gets you in the room — but your energy is what makes people want you back.🎧 Tune in and start redefining what it means to “show up.” Follow @Arete.ActDevelopment for more insights, tools, and upcoming mentorships designed to help you become the artist people remember.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Today we’re diving into a topic that’s both ambitious and extremely practical: what it really looks like to pursue a college degree or take online courses while performing professionally on contract.First things first—never forget your job is to be a performer. A class, test, or assignment should never interfere with your responsibilities on stage. That’s a non-negotiable. Setting a hard boundary around that will protect your career and your integrity.But here’s why this is a conversation worth having:·       You will never regret investing in yourself and continuing to learn.·       The ability to build toward your future while performing gives you more freedom in what comes next.·       I know artists who are now psychologists and lawyers—and they started their academic journey while balancing a full time performance career.This episode is for you if:·       You don’t want to miss out on a performance career but getting a degree is also non-negotiable.·       You want to build something alongside your performance career—not instead of it.·       You believe you can do both—with intention.💡 I’d love to hear what you’re navigating right now — find me on Instagram at @theartistbehindtheart. And don’t miss what’s coming: I’m kicking off a free 3-day artist mentorship with 👉 @Arete.ActDevelopment, focused on strengthening your submission materials.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Have you ever come home from a tour and felt… off? One day you’re in the rhythm of shows, surrounded by your cast family, and the next you’re back home wondering what to do with the sudden space. That “in-between” can either drain you — or it can become one of the most rewarding parts of your career.In this episode, I’m breaking down how to turn the gap into a season of rest, growth, and possibility — instead of uncertainty.Here’s what we’ll cover: ✨ Why transitions after a big project or tour can feel so unsettling. ✨ What we can learn from athletes like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles, who talk about the importance of having a plan for what comes next. ✨ Simple, practical ways to create structure in the in-between — from workshops, new training, and creative projects to rest, travel, and reflection. ✨ Why staying connected with your cast and community can help you move through the shift with more support.Because without a plan, the gap can feel empty. With one, it becomes an opportunity to recharge and refocus so you’re ready for what’s next.💡 I’d love to hear what you’re navigating right now — find me on Instagram at @theartistbehindtheart. And don’t miss what’s coming: I’m kicking off a free 3-day artist mentorship with 👉 @Arete.ActDevelopment, focused on strengthening your submission materials.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Life on tour isn’t just about what happens under the spotlight — it’s about how you take care of yourself in between shows. In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I’m sharing what it really takes to set yourself up for a long-term contract that feels sustainable, rewarding, and unforgettable.We’ll dive into:·       🥗 Fueling like an athlete — how to think ahead with nutrition, supplements, and fueling strategies so you can stay strong and consistent on stage.·       🏋️ Training with purpose — why your growth doesn’t have to stall on tour, and how to use limited time and space to maintain skills, build strength, and prepare for future opportunities.·       🌙 Thriving in downtime — how to plan hobbies, learning opportunities, and personal anchors so your off-hours feel restorative, not empty.·       🔄 Weekly resets — a simple check-in ritual to help you adapt, adjust, and finish your contract strong.Whether this is your first tour or your tenth, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to create a rhythm that keeps you healthy, grounded, and thriving both on and off the stage.✨ If this episode resonates, share it with another artist who needs the reminder — and leave a quick review. Reviews help more performers find this show and get the kind of real-world support we rarely get in training.➡️ Come hang out with me on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheart for more tools and conversations.➡️ And if you’re ready to work on your next big yes, follow @Arete.ActDevelopment. I’ve got mentorships and resources designed to help you elevate your submission materials, refine your act, and thrive in this industry.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Contracts can launch your career — or leave you burned out. In this episode, I’ll share the three questions every performer should ask before hitting “submit,” plus stories and strategies to help you choose wisely, protect your body, and set yourself up for a long, thriving career.Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art. This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation MentorshipI’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul. It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.If that resonates, I’d love to connect.📩 Email me at [email protected] 📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/Remember — you already have what it takes. The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?Until next time — show up big and own the stage.