The Sweet Madness Podcast

In the season 3 finale, I answer your questions complete with personal stories and a rant about “The Telephone Hour” from Bye Bye Birdie in which I TOTALLY forget that Hugo is a character, thus forgetting what information this song gives us. What was learned? How to focus on the kind of relationships you want for the future with yourself, partner, and the word No. Liked what you heard? Rate! Or send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.Thank you for another season! Let’s do this again sometime?

MT Pariti is an inspiration. He brings us into his corner of the world through poetry, community, and living by the Golden Rule. Author of Rhyme and Resistance and one of the creators of The Scene Magazine, he celebrates individuality, humanity, and it pays it forward in his everyday life. His words and verses flow through every corner of the heart, creating a safe space for it to be held. You’ll leave this episode feeling inspired and ready to journey through the rough waves of your journey. Liked what you heard? Rate! Or send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

What does “Sweet Madness’’ mean to director / filmmaker / SAG-AFTRA Actor, Gregory Cioffi? There’s only one word that comes to Greg’s mind: relish. We’re not talking about the green hot dog topping here – no. We’re talking about the verb. In this episode, my conversation with Greg touches upon burn out, living in the present, creative endeavors, and saying what you mean to say the way you mean to say it. Hit play. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Check out G&E Greg’s Production Company, here. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch  HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

My friend gave me the topic we’re talking about today, and I didn’t expect to get so passionate about it.  When dating, there’s this notion people think they know a person on a personal level before they’ve even met because of a few things. The #1 thing is social media. Did we forget that social media ISN’T a whole person? Their profile consists only of the parts they choose to share, and most likely, it’s a filtered version of who they actually are. In this episode, I dive into the elements of the effect social media has in the dating world, and how you can ground yourself to elevate your dating experience. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

We’re opening up windows for you and knocking on doors with forgiveness. Poet Laureate Emerita of Nassau County, Paula Curci, and Poet/Educator Robert Windorf discuss the essence of sweet madness through unexpected conversations of Alzheimer's, loss, age, love, healing, hope, the list goes on. The power of poetry prevails. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

Creator & Author of Struck Inside Out, Coach, and Podcaster Danielle Bertoli joins me in a conversation about meeting our inner selves. From gushing about Alanis Morissette to working to get out of our shells, there’s something that seems to be the power chord for us: getting comfortable in the uncomfortable. This episode was a massive inspiring spark for me, simply because Danielle has a way of wording the feelings we all feel - all while being a support that says “you’re not alone in what you’re feeling.” She has created a space and platform for people  to explore and express their truest selves. Now, it’s your turn. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

Vocal coach Jamie Berger of Limitless Vocals, has a heart like no other. In this episode, Jamie and I talk about honoring our heart’s songs while life has other plans. If you’re feeling lost on your life path, please know that you’re not alone. This episode gives you tons of sweet nuggets to feel empowered, encouraged, and motivated to make your life yours. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.Here’s my Hungryroot code: https://www.hungryroot.com/r/S5YCJF5M 

Wilson Valley, AKA, Chris Rogers, talks music, art-life balance, and how they contribute to his own sweet madness story. You’ll also learn your newest pick-up line. Check out Wilson Valley’s music to hear what the child of Linkin Park and Ed Sheeran would sound like (Chris’ words, not mine). Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on ⁠Instagram⁠. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us ⁠here⁠. Sweet Madness Merch HERE. Get your free personalized poem! Don’t worry, your story sticks with me. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz.

Making decisions sucks. I’ve struggled with this my entire life, mostly because I’m HIGHLY indecisive. But not so much any more. In this episode full of good examples (you’ll be craving some goodies after your listen), I give you the one thing that changed the decision-making game. Download your free Beat Indecisiveness Worksheet here and remember to ask yourself: How will this serve me? Making decisions will feel easier and easier. P.S. Make sure to subscribe to The Sweet Madness Podcast. We’re getting through the madness of life one sweet nugget at a time. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram. I’m a DM away.

Is it Good Pressure or Bad Pressure? One is the difference between the drive to do your best and your worst work. In this episode, JK Larkin is back to talk about work-life balance and how pressure can snowball affect your output in the office or your relationships. The one constant thread in your life is You and the only way to be the best You is to be true to you. Do the things that nourish you. JK isn’t kidding.Ready to dive in? Click play. Pokemon collages of hamburgers and dinosaurs not included. Nourish yourself! Take the next tiny step to be less of a mess from the inside out. Since switching to Hungryroot, I’ve felt more energized, soul-fed, and so not pressed for time. Here’s my Hungryroot code to receive $50 off your first delivery for $100 or more: https://www.hungryroot.com/r/S5YCJF5M I started concentrating on Me, and a tiny step was changing what I put into my body. Liked what you heard? Send me a DM on Instagram. Have a question for The Sweet Madness Podcast? Ask us here. Make sure to subscribe, like, rate, all that Shiz. oh! And follow JK on instagram to see some of his original Pokemon works of art. Now. 

The season 2 finale is here with a special Q&A episode! Recorded live at The Humble Cafe in front of an audience, Rebecca and I answer your questions for The Sweet Madness Podcast. Dive in and meet the first guest of Season 3, who was picked right there on-the-spot. This event also served as a celebration for my newest book baby, Poems of Madness Vol. 1! Ready for some Sweet Madness? I know you are. Endless thanks to the Humble Cafe for their hospitality, collaboration and insanely tasty goodies! Make sure to follow them on Instagram (@humble_cafe_wp) and if you live in the area, check them out! You’ll fall in love with them. Special thanks to life long friends, Rebecca Drew (co-host) and Veronica Melendez (film and audio engineer). As always, here are links for your clicking enjoyment: Submit a Question: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ask-the-podcastFollow on Instagram: @amanda.montoni / @full.of.sweet.madness Podcast Merch: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store?category=Sweet+Madness+Merch Poems of Madness Vol. 1: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store/poems-of-madness-vol-1 This has been such a wonderful season. Thank you all for listening/watching. Until next time, find those sweet nuggets, friends.

Go with your gut. If your body is screaming at you to journey a different path, follow the call. Listen. Jeremy Melendez certainly did. You’ll never know where you’ll end up, and it just might be the best thing for you. This episode is PACKED with advice and nuggets of wisdom for you. Some of the phrases Jeremy brought to this conversation definitely need to put on t-shirts. Subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Drop any questions you may have here. I’m here to listen and help you out any way I can. Get your Sweet Madness Merch here. We’ve got some cool stuff for you to show off. Follow all of the sweet madness on Instagram: @amanda.montoni @full.of.sweet.madness

You know the ride. You know the song. Most people love it. I’m not most people. “It’s a Small World (After All)”  is the creepiest song I’ve ever heard. The ride is one of my greatest fears. No, I’m not joking. Here’s my take.Subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Sweet Madness Merch: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store?category=Sweet+Madness+Merch Drop your Q’s here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ask-the-podcast What’s your irrational fear? Shoot me a DM on instagram. Let me know. @amanda.montoni

As I sat down with Jonathan, I couldn’t help but think about how we’re all connected. On an intricate level, we understand each other more than we think we do. The thing is we don’t see it. We're too busy being wrapped up in our own narratives. This episode ties together 2 different experiences that resonate on that intricate level. Jonathan Palmiotti tells his sweet madness story, the effects it had on his life, and ultimately, what sparked his decision to start his own podcast, An Artist’s Way of Healing. We dive into our frustrations, our experiences, and learn new perspectives that might help you let go of certain things you’re holding onto. Shout outs to all of our mentioned friends in the episode. Your presence in our lives impacted ours in ways you may not realize. Listen to An Artist’s Way of Healing: https://www.anartistswayofhealing.com/ Follow An Artist’s Way of Healing on Instagram: @anartistswayofhealing If you think this episode might help a friend, share it. Share Jonathan’s story. There’s comfort in knowing that we’re connected, even if our picture isn’t painted exactly the same. To sign up for the Sweet Madness Newsletter: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Get your Sweet Madness Merch (there’s a new notebook in town!) here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store?category=Sweet+Madness+Merch Follow all of the sweet madness on Instagram: @amanda.montoni @full.of.sweet.madness Got Questions for us? Ask ‘em here!

It’s story time! I know you love story time. Today’s episode is all about a moment that impacted my life forever more. It’s the moment I discovered my Why, and it’s far from all sunshine and rainbows. It’s layered with all the sweet madness this world hands us. What’s your Why Moment? Slide into my DM’s on Instagram to let me know. If this episode resonates with you, make sure to share it with a friend if you think it’ll resonate with them too. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe and rate The Sweet Madness Podcast. I’m having lots of fun doing this thing and I need your feedback to keep it growing! Got Questions for me? Drop em here! Here are some links for stuff:  Subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter on my website. Scroll down to the bottom, there’s a little form for you.  The Sweet Heart Tee (and more pod merch) are available here! Bella the Buck-Toothed Ballerina (my children’s book) is in the store. A portion of the proceeds go to 2 organizations I deeply admire, Inspiring Girls and Girls Leadership. It’s all about making a difference for girls and their dreams everywhere.  Instagram Handles: @amanda.montoni & @full.of.sweet.madness

Better late than never! If there’s one thing every single one of us needs in this world, it’s to feel connected.  In this bonus episode, City Gate Productions talks about the all encompassing, contradictory and rewarding feels theatre has to offer. There’s truly no other connection like it.  Virginia Harmon and Regina Fischedick talk about the level of heart and community the arts provide for all of us. We need film. We need TV. We need music and theatre and dance and visual arts to say “I got you. I feel you. You’re not alone.”  Did we talk about the actor process? Yes. Did we talk about performances in a bar? Yes. Did we talk about connecting with other organizations and pillars of Queens? Yes.  Did we coordinate outfits? Absolutely not. Did we expect to feel this much gratitude from this conversation? Maybe. We’re all about love.  Since this episode was filmed before The Sweet Madness Podcast’s unexpected hiatus, City Gate’s Production of Frankenstein came and went. It was a moving way to experience the 2024 spooky season.  Now, City Gate is in rehearsals for their production of POTUS set to premiere in March 2025. For info on POTUS (and tickets) make sure to check out https://www.citygateproductions.org/ If you’d like to get involved with City Gate, check out their site and subscribe to their newsletter. You’ll get updates about auditions, submissions, and other theatre happenings in Queens.  Sweet Madness Tote & Merch: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store?category=Sweet+Madness+Merch  Subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter to never miss an episode of The Sweet Madness Podcast: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Share this episode to anyone who wants to get involved or simply hear 3 humans have a loving conversation.  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment! We also need feedback to help us grow.

There’s a reason why most searches about dating are questions.A clear definition of it doesn’t exist.Why?In this episode, I tell you why. I also tell you some pretty important things that get lost in the mess of dating someone new. Want to have a better dating experience? Try these things out. I can only help you by sharing what I’ve learned. If you find they don’t work for you, that’s okay. The important thing is totry. …and maybe have an open heart and mind for f***’s sake. If you have questions for me, please feel free to send them in. Here’s a link:https://www.amandamontoni.com/ask-the-podcast Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, or rate the show!Now, for the links mentioned in the episode. Blog:4 Bones to Pick with Dating and How To Bury Them. Subscribe to the Sweet Madness Newsletterhere. I often drop nuggets like this. Podcast Merch. The beanie is my fav! I hope this episode helps you out. You’reso worthy of the love you desire. 

Have you already dropped your New Year's Resolution? What're your thoughts on Resolutions? Do you even have any? 2 old friends unpack the surrounding stigma of Resolutions and why saying the words "New Year's" in front of the R-word will only set you back. Rebecca Drew, life-long friend and teacher joins me as we cover way more in this episode than intended. Somehow a trip down memory lane circled us back to our discussion about bettering ourselves this year. Some of those memories came out of the vault. This episode ends with a tool to accomplish your wishes and dreams this year. Submit your questions for the Podcast here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ask-the-podcast Book Recommendation: The Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes. Sign up for the Sweet Madness Newsletter: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Sweet Madness Merch: https://www.amandamontoni.com/store?category=Sweet+Madness+Merch Follow Amanda on Instagram: Personal IG - @amanda.montoni Sweet Madness IG - @full.of.sweet.madness Don't forget to leave a comment! Subscribe! Rate! Whatever your heart desires - give the Pod some loving feedback. Make your voice heard. I so appreciate it.

Why do we live in a world where appearances are what we concentrate on the most? Here's proof that they don't matter as much as we think they do. Let me re-introduce myself. Hi. My name is Amanda Montoni and I am a fat dancer. I grew up in a world I loved. But this world was one that would chew me up and spit me out. It almost did, until I realized these things:   1. The ideal image of a dancer is unattainable.  2. I moved up a year in dance because of my talent, technique, work ethic, and attitude.  3. I was the youngest in the class because of #2.   4. My weight does not determine my worth as a dancer or human being.  For 10+ years, I encouraged students to follow their dance dreams, no matter their body shape. I became an award-winning choreographer and an author. My children's book, Bella the Buck-Toothed Ballerina was written for all of the dreamers out there. I wrote it to say "You Are Worthy" because You Are.  This is my complicated and rambling story about my relationship with dance. I hope hearing my story helps you the tiniest bit to start seeing yourself for the magic you truly are.  You can purchase Bella the Buck-Toothed Ballerina by visiting www.amandamontoni.com. Don’t forget to subscribe and give me a follow on Instagram (@amanda.montoni). Let’s connect. Tell me your story. 

In my conversation with Jim Haines, we talk about the importance of creativity in this structure-filled world. The brain is capable of many things, and William Shakespeare embodies the human experience. Mr. Shakes also happens to be one of Jim's major influences  - so much so that he wrote a one man show about the bard's impact on his life. The show, The Crackpot Shakespeare Theories Vol. 1 is premiering June 28th, 2024 with City Gate Productions. Go to www.citygateproductions.org for more info about this jam packed show and to get your tickets. Go. Do it now. It's one only Jim Haines could create.

Freedom. It's what we all want. How do we get it? In the season 1 finale of The Sweet Madness Podcast, psychology counselor, Pre-Law, and world student, Nick Montoni sums up what life is all about: the balance of Change vs. Familiarity. In other words, Sweet Madness. Through his knowledge of psychology, philosophy, and law, Nick shows us how we can get to a balancing sweet spot and achieve freedom: through the power of learning. After all, the World is our classroom. You can follow Nick on Instagram at @montoni76. Follow me at @amanda.montoni and send me a DM of what you want to hear in season 2 of The Sweet Madness Podcast. To subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter, head over to https://www.amandamontoni.com/. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, review, and share. Feedback is the key to growth. Till next season, Amanda Montoni.

Putting parts of ourselves into boxes is a thing of the past. In this episode, the CEO - excuse me, Head Penguin - of Red Penguin Books and Red Penguin Web Solutions bestows some beautiful advice upon us. Stephanie Larkin is a fellow multi-passionate, multi-faceted human. She has worn hats with the titles of Musician, Entrepreneur, Performer, Mom, Podcast host, and more. The road never stopped for Stephanie and in this episode, she tells us how to embrace our multi-faceted authentic selves without putting pieces of ourselves in boxes. Believe it or not, this works especially for your business ventures and brand. "Raise the bar!" she tells us. It is super important to think of ourselves as a whole, to read the room, and to never give up on ourselves. For we've got us for life. You can check out Red Penguin by clicking the hyperlinks above. To subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter, click here. Don't forget to subscribe, share, like, and leave a review for The Sweet Madness Podcast.

To answer the title question: Besides being partially Italian, they have more in common than you think. Join Theatre Performer, Tara Mangione, as she discusses the importance of Vulnerability with a capital "V" in a cut-throat business. In this episode, Tara gives a play-by-play of her college audition experiences and what made her ultimately choose Molloy/Cap 21 for her college program. Tara also gives us a run-down of some of her college experiences in the program, and how theatre has helped shaped her into the socially and emotionally aware person she is today (and continues to). There's a lot of work to being a person, and it can feel overwhelming. Dive into this episode to hear 2 best friends chat about how theatre is not only applicable to performers but to all (including you). You'll hear how theatre fundamentals can help you make your life one that is fulfilling, easier, and most importantly, yours. To download your free "Let it Go to Let it Flow" phone wallpaper, click here. Subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter here. To check out the episode that focuses on Perfection, feel free to hit the play button on "The Pressure to be Perfect (and the secret to taking the pressure off). Don't forget to subscribe to The Sweet Madness Podcast, rate, comment, or leave a review. We thrive on your feedback to bring you more content that you want to hear. www.amandamontoni.com @amanda.montoni

What’s more important than a sense of belonging? What’s more important than community? We can think of a few things, but this world survives on community. In this episode, Amanda speaks with 2 of the founders of Random Thursdays Radio Theatre - Actor/Director/Playwright Dany Stravino and Playwright Peter M. Carrozzo.  Dany and Peter speak of their writing practices and the very thing that keeps the theatre alive: community. Without it, where would they be?  Hear how they created something different than their usual theatre experience and what kept them going in times of uncertainty.  You can check out the Random Thursdays Radio Theatre podcast anywhere you get you get your podcasts. Who doesn’t want to listen to new and random stories?  Go to https://randomthursdays.com to learn more about their original plays, cast members, and their company.  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the RTRT podcast. Head over to https://www.amandamontoni.com to see a full list of her theatrical credits and opportunities.  Drop a comment or review for The Sweet Madness Podcast at your will. We love your feedback - that’s how we keep the Sweet Madness Community alive. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a piece of the madness. 

Are you single? Hating the dating world right now? Us too. The dating world has changed rapidly over the last few years. Apps and chances to connect are abound, and yet the single struggle feels stronger than ever. Listen in on a conversation with Professional Actor, Julio Ulloa Jr., and Amanda to hear how their experiences in the single world taught them some very valuable lessons. To listen to Amanda's giddy love playlist, click on this link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4jGM5DEv7R7xA7v2riNlxu Love lives are full of sweet madness, friends. To subscribe to The Sweet Madness Newsletter with weekly encouragements, visit https://www.amandamontoni.com/ Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to The Sweet Madness Podcast. We thrive on feedback.

Why the heck do we feel alone when we are surrounded by people?  It's not that we're alone. It's that we are lonely.  In this episode, Amanda talks about her experiences and what she has done to combat loneliness. If you’re feeling lonely, give this episode a listen. You may find the answers you’ve been looking for.  Read her lonely poems in her poetry collection Trains, New York, and the Love (or lack thereof) That Goes Along With Them here: https://a.co/d/iLttCwj  Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Sweet Madness Podcast or leave a review.  Sweet things are always happening in the madness. 

Am I good enough? I don’t believe I did a good job. I’m a fraud.  Do those thoughts ring through your head? Do you have trouble accepting praise?  Imposter Syndrome is a killer. In this episode, you’ll learn simple tools to get you to start believing in yourself.  You’ll believe are worthy of the praise you get - because you are.   I chose to talk about Imposter Syndrome because this is something I see lots of people struggle with, including myself.  Don’t forget to like, follow, subscribe, and leave a review for The Sweet Madness Podcast. I want to hear your feedback.  As promised, here are the links I said I would drop in this episode:  The Thoughts While Singing Official Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2VwnKJLashHEpswMt3uIqh?si=537703e0ade64cbd  Subscribe to my newsletter here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/  And here’s the Psychology Today definition of Imposter Syndrome: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/imposter-syndrome  Sweet things are always happening in the madness. 

Grief. Loss. It's something we all go through - whether we mourn an old friend, a loved one, or a past version of ourselves. What we often forget is that we already have the power within ourselves to guide our lives forward. In this episode, Amanda is joined by guest and author, JK Larkin (@jksnotkidding), to discuss the many ways we can heal from grief and how to move onward. Through their theatre and writing experiences, JK and Amanda highlight the beautiful ways the Arts can be a catalyst for healing. To download the free Grief Worksheet, click here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/the-grief-guide-to-growth Don’t forget to like, subscribe, or leave a review for The Sweet Madness Podcast.  Sweet things are always happening in the madness, my friend. You have the power within you to make it full of sweetness.

How many of you feel the pressure to be perfect weigh you down every day? In this episode, Amanda Montoni talks about the pressure we feel from society and the pressure we put on ourselves. She teaches us one important lesson: perfection does not exist, so take the pressure off. This episode tells you how. Soon, you'll be on your way to a much lighter life. To subscribe to the Sweet Madness Newsletter - and get a virtual hug - click here: https://www.amandamontoni.com/

Feeling like your life is a never-ending mess? It's changing all the time. How can you possibly keep up? Yes, life is messy. It's full of twists and turns, good moments, bad moments, heartbreaking moments, and moments that make our hearts flutter. It's full of sweetness. It's full of madness. It's hard to navigate. And overwhelming. Join host and author Amanda Montoni as she explores life's beautiful and contradictory nature. Through discussions and ramblings, you may find this podcast is exactly what you need to gain a new perspective, and navigate life with its ever-changing nature. In this episode, find out just what "Sweet Madness" means. This is where we talk about everything sweet, mad, and in-between. To subscribe to the Sweet Madness Newsletter, click on this link: https://www.amandamontoni.com/ There are always sweet things happening in the madness.