Not From Here

This week Riley & Isa sit down with Janae Hammond, an artist originally from Missouri, who is currently starring as Rose Granger-Weasley on Broadway in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child!Janae opens up about her journey, from growing up in Missouri and studying at Missouri State University, to fully committing to a career in the performing arts. Along the way, Janae brings warmth, honesty, and humor to the episode, recounting memorable (and often hilarious) moments from her life in New York City.She also takes us behind the scenes of making her Broadway debut, sharing the full-circle experience of joining Cursed Child: from her initial audition to stepping into the show as a swing, and eventually taking on a leading role.It’s an episode full of vulnerability, inspiration, and a little bit of manifestation magic, where dreams meet reality.

In this week’s episode, Riley & Isa are joined by Broadway’s very own, Kelsee Kimmel!Originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Kelsee walks us through her journey—from earning her BFA at Shenandoah Conservatory to making the move to NYC and building the career she has today. She shares stories from the road with different National Tours like Kinky Boots, Rent’s 20th Anniversary Tour, Pretty Woman, and Six.We also dive into her Broadway run in Six and Hell’s Kitchen, including her incredible transition from Jessica Vosk’s standby to performing full-time in the role of Jersey. She opens up about all things Hell’s Kitchen, including her audition process, how to stay vocally healthy, and the detailed work that goes into bringing a Broadway show to life.Along the way, we get to know the person behind the performer and her passion, hustle, and dedication shine through. Plus, you don’t want to miss her wild New York horror story and advice for artists chasing their dreams. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her, trust that this won’t be the last time you hear her name.Make sure to tune in and Go Birds!! IYKYK.

Not From Here is super excited to announce their first ever CROSSOVER episode with the podcast, Curb Sit!On this week's episode, Riley and Isa are joined by Curb Sit co-hosts, Jesse Lynn Harte and Lea Sevola! The girls recount how they started their respective podcasts and mix segments of each to deliver your new favorite crossover episode since the Disney x Nickelodeon golden days. Tune in for lots of laughs, candid personal truths, and what it sounds like when four theatre kid transplants get behind some mics!Make sure to follow Curb Sit on all platforms and show them some major love!! @curbsitpod

This week we’re joined by actor, producer, and certified "hot theatre kid" Kristen Eliza Brock!!From growing up in Florida doing auditions as a child actor to taking on the stage of the Jimmy Awards, Kristen has been preparing for the spotlight her whole life. But what happens after the degree? Following her time as a musical theatre major at Montclair State University, Kristen pulls back the curtain on the grit, the growth, and the truth of building a professional theatre career post-college.Kristen also tells us all about The Table Read Co., a nonprofit she founded that produces new works across NYC and supports playwrights by bringing their pieces to life at no cost.Plus, we get into the idea of “hot theatre kids,” dream roles, Quiet in the House podcast, Cosmo Girls NYC, and the chaotic beauty of building a creative life in your 20s.

*Trigger Warning* Episode contains content regarding eating disorders.This week, Riley and Isa are joined by their first guest of 2026: Ellis Gage! Originally from New England, Ellis started his artistic journey as a professional child actor, creating impactful work from a very young age. Now calling NYC home, Ellis continues to push his boundaries as a performer, writer, and all-around creative. The three explore some of the shows and experiences that have shaped Ellis' dynamic career, such as projects like Next to Normal in Taiwan and Dani Girl by Michael Kooman and Chris Dimond, diving into the artistry, collaboration, and spark behind bringing old and new meaningful stories to life.Ellis also shares the story and process behind his very own new musical "Measure Up”, a musical fairytale loosely about eating disorders, that he co-wrote with EMMY-winning composer, Sean P. Pallatroni. In a powerful and vulnerable discussion, he reflects on what it means to turn lived experience into art, and how sharing his personal journey with recovery has created space for others to feel seen and seek help. Tune in for an incredibly heartfelt and impactful episode!* For the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline: Call 1-800-931-2237 or text NEDA to 741741

In this week’s episode of Not From Here, Riley and Isa are sitting down for one final catch up before bringing on a special guest next! They fill you in on what’s been happening over the last couple of weeks, including watching the Super Bowl Halftime Show together and surprisingly warmer weather in the city. The main conversation of this episode dives into Hustle Culture, what it really means, how it shows up in their lives, and why finding a healthy balance between work and play isn’t just nice, but necessary. They also get candid about auditioning, sharing honest insights on rejection, resilience, and the power of focusing on what’s actually within your control instead of spiraling over what isn’t.

This week on Not From Here, Isa and Riley come to you live from their Tuesday Night Sleepover at Riley's apartment! They dive into what has been going on in their lives and some of the ways they've grown in the past few years. From talking about gaining confidence to adult friendships, the girls have an open conversation about getting older and navigating adulthood in a city far from home. They also shed some light on some of the bigger lessons they've learned  from living in the greatest city in the world. Tune in for a silly, yet heartfelt episode as the girls take some time to do another NYC Check In. 

Happy New Year!! It’s been a few weeks since the girls last caught you up, but after taking some time off for the holidays and getting back into the swing of things, they have plenty to share in this week’s episode! Riley and Isa dive into updates on jobs and employment, New Year’s resolutions, and the actionable goals they’re working toward in the year ahead. And of course, it wouldn’t be a Not From Here episode without a few off-topic rants, familiar callbacks, and silly stories. Make sure to tune in to NFH's first episode of 2026!*Credit to TikTok creator Camille Jett for the “Trying NOT to Get Seen at an Audition” trend Riley mentions during the sharing goals segment of the episode.*

Ever feel like you’re climbing an endless ice mountain in the middle of a blizzard? Yeah… same.In this week’s episode, Riley and Isa sit down for an honest, heartfelt reflection on the past year. From moments that made them proud to ones that kept them humble, the girls unpack the highs, the lows, and everything in between. They revisit familiar themes like burnout, timelines, and comparison, this time with fresh perspective and a lot of laughter.Expect high energy, vulnerability, and plenty of silliness as the girls reflect, reset, and remind you that you’re not alone on the climb.

After a streak of amazing guests, Riley & Isa are settling back into the home studio for a little holiday catch-up! The girls kick things off by reflecting on what they’ve learned from their guests the past few weeks - creating your own opportunities, booking the room by being unapologetically yourself, and navigating the imposter-syndrome spiral.Then it’s straight into a cozy holiday catch-up: Thanksgiving recap, Spotify Wrapped chaos, and Christmas wishlists - plus a quick pop-culture check-in with all things Dancing With The Stars finale, "Wicked: For Good", and "Stranger Things" Season 5. Consider this your official kickoff to the holiday season!

This week on Not From Here, Riley and Isa are joined by multifaceted artist and actress, Sarah Helbringer! Originally from Buffalo, New York, Sarah shares the story of her move to New York City after undergrad and the creative path she’s carved out for herself since.She highlights several standout projects, including her Netflix credits such as acting in Tyler Perry’s Six Triple Eight and working as Anna Camp’s body double in Season Five of the hit series YOU. Sarah also reveals that she recently wrapped filming on the upcoming Netflix film Heartland, starring Jessica Chastain, and gives a glimpse into what that experience was like.Beyond her on-set work, Sarah dives into memorable stories from her commercial shoots—like a fun behind-the-scenes moment from filming a spot for Francesca’s—and talks about her unique side jobs as a fit model. Riley and Isa also celebrate her impressive accomplishment of running the NYC Marathon, which she reflects on with humor and heart.Filled with warmth and inspiring creative insights, this episode offers a dynamic behind-the-scenes look at an artist’s life. From working on set to building her own opportunities, Sarah brings a refreshing perspective on what it means to grow, hustle, and create in New York City.

For Episode 80, Riley & Isa are sitting down with one of the brightest humans they know - actor and comedian Andie Fuentes! The girls chat with Andie about where her love for theatre began, the moment she knew acting was it for her, and how her journey eventually brought her to NYC.Andie spills about being on Saturday Night Live, finding her footing in the comedy scene, and becoming the unexpected face of a New Jersey hospital. She also opens up about being honored at the Talia Awards for Excellence in Latinx Theatre, the impact of her role in Mi Abuela, Queen of Nightmares, what it means to be a Latina artist in today’s world, and how representation shapes the next generation.It’s an episode full of laughter, honesty, identity, art, and classic Not From Here chaos - wrapped up with a little pop-culture gossip about The Summer I Turned Pretty.

Episode 79 welcomes Talent Agent Morgan Wolfe of Resolute Artists Agency - who also happens to be Isa’s agent and a longtime friend of the pod! A former performer turned agent, Morgan brings a unique perspective to the conversation - sharing how she made the transition, what inspired her shift to representation, and her best advice for actors from the other side of the table. Tune in for a silly and honest conversation about growth, trusting the process, and finding your path in an industry that never stops evolving.

This week, Isa and Riley catch up during one last solo episode (for now!) before jumping into some fun guest interviews in the next coming weeks. They catch up on all the chaos lately - from neighbors calling in yet another noise complaint, to Halloween plans, to navigating hate comments online. And obviously, they wrap things up at the end with a little Dancing With the Stars debrief. Tune in for a special and slightly spooky catch up with the girls! 

BIG NEWS: ISA GOT ENGAGED!!!It was a big weekend for the Not From Here girls and this week’s episode is full of love, celebrations, and surprises! Riley and Isa dive into all of the details on Isa’s surprise engagement, and how it turned into an unforgettable weekend. Alongside Isa’s engagement, Riley’s 26th birthday bash was one for the books, and they’re here to recap all of the moments! Tune in for a jam-packed episode to hear the inside scoop on the most eventful week of their year!

After kicking off Season Five last week with the online drop of their live show, Riley and Isa are SO excited to be back behind the mic. In this episode, they’re catching you up on where they’ve been these past seven months! You can expect behind-the-scenes stories from Not From Here: Live!, in addition to a silly recap of their summer adventures and wedding season fun!Tune in for a classic Not From Here yap session. We're so back. 

*Episode 75 is a live recording of Not From Here: Live! and marks the start of Season 5*Not From Here: Live! is a unique, one night only, theatrical experience hosted by podcast co-hosts and best friends, Riley Klauza and Isa Rodriguez. After meeting in New York City and quickly bonding over their shared Michigan roots, they created Not From Here, a podcast that celebrates the heart, humor, and chaos of navigating life far from home. Now in honor of their 75th episode, they’re bringing their very first live show to The Laurie Beechman Theatre! Tune in for an unforgettable mix of storytelling, comedy, and music, all celebrating community and the joy of belonging. Join Riley and Isa as they explore the Not From Here Pillars, play classic audience games, chat with returning guests, and host a live comedy-style podcast episode, all woven together with musical performances from past guests and the hosts themselves.Whether you’re a day one listener or brand new to the podcast, you’ll be welcomed into a community of dreamers and adventurers. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost. Music Director: Aidan WellsGuests: Brianna Kaleen, Alyssa Wray, & Hannah Kevitt

For our season finale, we’re wrapping things up with a powerhouse guest! Leah Holt— NYC personal trainer and co-founder of Movement & Mindset, joins us to share her fitness journey, from beginning as a musical theatre major to making the leap into training and entrepreneurship. We dive into the highs, lows, and unexpected twists that shaped her path, plus some fun pop culture moments along the way.It’s an inspiring conversation about embracing change, trusting the process, and finding your true calling. Thanks for an amazing season — see you soon!

This week on Not From Here, Riley and Isa are popping the (imaginary) champagne to celebrate two whole years of podcasting! 🥂✨In this special anniversary episode, Riley and Isa take a heartfelt (and giggly) look back at their favorite moments, share wild New York horror stories, and reflect on the lessons they’ve learned while navigating their 20s in the city that never sleeps.From cringeworthy outfit choices to subway misadventures, they’re spilling it all—along with the unexpected truths about friendship, ambition, and finding your footing when you feel anything but “from here.”Whether you’ve been with them since day one or are just jumping in, this episode is packed with laughs, real talk, and celebrations! 

This week on Not From Here, Riley & Isa recap their weekend and Valentine’s Day before tackling the final stretch of seasonal depression—sharing tips on checking in with yourself and making some space for fun. They also share their thoughts on Kendrick Lamar’s impactful Super Bowl halftime show and chat about what they’ve been watching and reading. Tune in for laughs, real talk, and a reminder to touch grass as we inch closer to summer in NYC.

This week on Not From Here, are chatting with actor and podcast host Brianna Kaleen, whose career has taken her from the Hairspray National Tour to regional theater stages and even a big win in a Times Square singing competition.Brianna opens up about the rollercoaster of being a performer in NYC, auditions, the setbacks, and the small (but mighty) wins that keep us going. We also dive into her podcast, Suffering for Art, and why this career sometimes feels like a beautiful struggle.If you’ve ever questioned why we put ourselves through this, you’re not alone - tune in for some real talk, laughs, and inspiration.

Growth isn’t always comfortable - in fact, it rarely is. In this week’s episode, Riley & Isa explore what it means to sit with discomfort as we navigate change, uncertainty, and personal evolution. Why do we resist the uneasy parts of growth? How can we learn to embrace the awkward, in-between moments of becoming? Tune in as the girls share personal stories, real-life lessons, and practical ways to lean into change rather than fight it. Because sometimes, the most uncomfortable seasons of life are the ones that shape us the most.

In this week’s episode, Riley and Isa are circling back to a previous conversation and sharing how 2025 is already throwing curveballs. From the ups and downs of auditioning at the A1 conference to Riley’s life as a dog mom, the girls chat about the real-life hustle and the challenges of getting back on track. Tune in for a mix of candid conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, and all the things that make life in the creative world both tough and rewarding.

On this week’s episode of Not From Here, the girls are joined by the incredibly talented actress, singer/songwriter, and self-proclaimed soft girl, Meghan Fitton! Meghan takes us through her journey from her Massachusetts roots to discovering her true home in the vibrant heart of New York City—and shares how much she’s grown along the way. She opens up about her time on American Idol and reflects on the experiences that have shaped her artistry. Plus, the episode dives into her creative process, including self-producing and co-producing cabarets in NYC. It’s an inspiring, hilarious conversation about ambition, identity, and the power of finding where you truly belong—you do not want to miss it!

In the first episode of the new year, Riley and Isa catch up on life, reflect on the 2024 holiday season, and share their resolutions as they dive into what the next 12 months have in store! Riley brings the heat with a juicy 2024 Dating Wrapped (you won't want to miss that!), and the two discuss the latest buzz around Bad Bunny's new album and some of the drama surrounding It Ends With Us. Grab your headphones and join them as they kick off 2025 with a fresh start, plenty of laughs, and a little bit of tea.

Christmas came early this year! 🎄 In their final episode of 2024, Riley and Isa are beyond thrilled to welcome the amazing Alyssa Wray as this week’s special guest! From her unforgettable run on American Idol Season 19 to starring in the Rocky Horror Picture Show alongside Frankie Grande, Alyssa shares her journey from Kentucky to New York City and all the incredible lessons she’s learned along the way. As always, expect tons of laughs and plenty of fan-girling in this can't-miss episode!

On this “Freaky Friday” the 13th, Riley and Isa serve up a hilariously chaotic episode! They recap Wicked’s Golden Globe nominations, discuss standout characters like Boq, and spill the tea on shocking breakups like Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan. The girls dive into all the trending chaos on their “For You Pages” and wrap things up with a playful twist on Variety’s “Actors on Actors” by creating personalized quizzes for each other. Tune in for a seriously silly episode!

This week Riley and Isa are back with a new episode after a two week Holiday break! There is lots to catch up on as they cover what they have been up to since they last spoke. Tune in to hear about their recent trips, favorite broadway shows, current pop culture events, and how they are feeling individually going into the end of 2024. Make sure to stay till the end for a refreshing conversation on how to find your authentic inner artist and how genuinely following your heart and your interests can lead you to a place of growth and aligning with your real artist self. The girls are happy to be back!! Grab a glass of your favorite drink to cozy up with and tune into Not From Here!

This week the girls are joined by two up and coming musicians in the NYC scene, Madeline Dalton and Adam Dorfman! Both having recently worked on two of Madeline's solo shows, Swingin' With Sara and I Feel the Earth Swing, the duo talk us through their set list and arrangement process as well as the story behind how they met and began collaborating. We learn where the two come from as individuals and how they each got into the theater and music world. While a very giggly and fun episode, it is still compact with vulnerable moments from the guests as they share obstacles and triumphs in their personal journeys. Tune in for a special, 2 in 1, double guest episode! Double the guests means double the wine... right?

This week, the girls are thrilled to welcome Broadway’s rising star, Hannah Kevitt! After graduating from college and heading straight to “Back to the Future” on Broadway, Hannah shares her incredible journey from campus to curtain call. Now working as the “Claire” Cover  in “Maybe Happy Ending” on Broadway, she opens up about the evolution of her career, her growth as a human being, behind-the-scenes stories, and the challenges of finding her footing in NYC. Join us for an inspiring, fun-filled conversation perfect for theater enthusiasts and “Broadway Wannabe’s” like us! ;)Follow along with Hannah’s remarkable journey: @hannah.kevitt 

The time has FINALLY arrived!! The man, the myth, the legend, and most importantly our social media manager himself, Noah Wisniewski is here with us this week!! Tune in to hear all things from moving to the city, his theatre roots, how he got into the YouTube editing world, dealing with the grief of his Mom, his current work, meeting Normani, and all things Coachella in this fun-packed episode! We couldn't do what we do without him so we are beyond excited to have him on <3Keep up with Noah:instagram.com/noah_wisniewski

This week Riley and Isa talk all things Quarter Life. As Riley has now finally turned 25, the girls give you some crazy life updates and dive into the psychology behind the inevitable quarter life crisis. Whether you listen on your way to work or as you unwind at home, prepare for lots of giggles, as well as some vulnerable shares. 

This week, Riley and Isa are joined by a New Jersey native, Deanna Elise Beaucher! Throughout the episode, Deanna shares her background in theatre, journey with social media, and experience commuting between New Jersey and New York! Tune in to hear the girls discuss Wawas and the new Wicked collab as well as Deanna's point of view on joining Actors Equity. Get comfy and buckle up for an extra giggly, jam packed episode!

The girls are coming at you this week with a "Late Nite Bite" as they do a life & pop culture catch up! Grab your favorite midnight snack and buckle up for some mouth watering gossip and giggles!

This week the girls are joined by dream guest & mentor, Ryan Scott Oliver! With lots of questions on their minds, Riley & Isa interviewed Ryan about his childhood, his arts training, his musical works and future dreams. Tune in to be inspired by a current up and coming musical theatre writer in our industry. From “35MM” to “Tomorrow the Island Dies”, what better way to start off spooky season than with some spooky music? ;) Keep up with Ryan: @ryanscottoliver

This week the girls talk about the power of routines! Why are they important to people and more specifically, actors? Tune in to hear all about what Riley and Isa are doing to refresh their routines and prep for the new season before them. There's also lots of giggles and details from what they got up to last weekend! In true Not From Here fashion, you'll leave this episode laughing and wanting to work on perfecting your own routine! 

Calling all GLEEKS and "Loser(s) Like Us" as we are joined by our very first guest of Season 4, Bailey Forman!! We are so excited to introduce you to Bailey and giggle about all things "Glee", West Coast vs. East Coast, Broadway FMK's, and SO much more! Follow along with Bailey's journey:@baileyformanhttps://www.baileyforman.com/

Allow us to RE-introduce ourselves...The girls are back and better than ever as they launch into season 4! After a reintroduction and a debrief of their summers, Riley and Isa give you a glimpse into what is planned for season 4 and why "Not From Here" continues on. Grab a glass of wine and buckle up for the realness that this season holds!

The girls are back for one final episode to wrap up season 3 of “Not From Here” !! :’) To celebrate the end of the season, Riley & Isa do a little New York check-in on how the city’s been treating them the past 6 months and offer some advice to those who are going through a transitional period. They also do a little dive into what’s coming up for them this “Hot & Healing Girl Summer”. 

This week the girls discuss how Isa is feeling as a fresh 25 year old. They talk how the pandemic affected their early twenties and how they’re focused on grabbing back the reigns for their mid & late twenties.

After a sort of prompted, but also kind of un-prompted month long hiatus... the girls are BACK with a few more episodes to wrap up Season 3! This week the girls cover what you missed while they were gone. There's a lot to catch up on! Tune in for one of the giggliest episodes yet!

This week Riley and Isa celebrate the 50th episode of Not From Here! They catch you up on what's been going on recently and spend some time reflecting on Not From Here's journey. Tune in to hear about the realities of what "living your dreams" can look like. It may not always be glitter and glamour, but it's important to remind ourselves often that we are worthy as artists, regardless of our credits and accolades. Following your dreams is about believing in yourself even when others don't, even when the end blurs out of sight. It is about fighting until you reach the top of that mountain and looking back at where you came from with lots and lots of pride. So grab a cup of tea or a glass of something stronger and listen up to what the girls have learned! And make sure to bring all your wildest dreams to the listening party too. 

This week the girls are joined by a current broadway performer, Lily Kren! As a current ensemble member in “The Who’s TOMMY”, Lily tells us about her journey to where she is today and all of the things that make her who she is and definitely, Not From Here. Listen in as she talks growing up, college, all of the cool projects she has been a part of since she graduated and moved to NYC, and her broadway debut!! As such an inspiration to all - the girls wanted to find out…. Well “Who’s Lily Kren”!?

Lights Camera Action is the theme of this week’s episode as we sit down with native michigander, and actress & model, Bella Torres! The girls dish all as Bella shares her background, audition horror stories, favorite gigs, being a Latina in the industry, and even some silly childhood stories as Riley & Bella grew up together! :’) Buckle up for a lot of glitz, glam, and giggles with this episode! Where to find Bella?Instagram: @bella_alysia

Hi besties, did you miss us?! Isa and Riley are back for a solo episode this week where they delve into the world of fashion! Are the girls struggling with their own style? Yes. Do they have the credentials to discuss fashion? No... but they have been personally victimized by the fashion industry. This leads to discussions about their style upbringing, trends, and influences, their relationships with sizing, their favorite brands, and much more!! 

In this week's episode, Riley and Isa sit down with coach and girl boss Jane VanderVoort- owner of Movement and Mindset! A North Carolina native, Jane talks about her background in both fitness and performing and how it has all gotten her to where she is today. Her business Movement and Mindset, based in NYC, focuses on empowering women to be very intentional about moving their bodies and highlighting all of the benefits it can have on their lives.  She leads a very moving discussion on women's roles in the fitness industry and why it's so important to have safe and inclusive workout spaces for all. Enjoy this awesome chat with Jane with some Throne of Glass and Sarah J Maas gossip at the end for those who choose to listen in! 

The Klauza sisters are taking over for Episode 45!! Fresh New Yorker, and Riley’s little sister, Kennedy Klauza, joins us as we discuss all things sisterhood, long distance relationships, finding hobbies, moving to a new city, ex-boyfriend horror stories, and so much more! Kennedy’s Instagram’s: @kennedyklauza / @217byken

The girls are taking the saying  “remember that you once dreamed of being where you are now” quite literally as they give you an episode on regaining perspective! Sometimes we get so caught up in the day to day we lose focus of the smaller steps we are taking to reach our “bigger picture”.  Sit back, relax, and let’s acknowledge the small wins together!

The girls are back and better than ever, and this week they are joined by special guest, Landry Champlin!! From competing in Miss Texas and writing the children’s book series “Fiona the Fearless Fox” to moving to NYC and documenting her journey on Tik Tok along the way - tune in as Landry dishes all and reminds us to “Live Fearless” in all that we do!Landry’s Tik Tok: @landry.champlinLandry’s Instagram: @landrychamplin

This week the girls discuss the idea of comparison and why it can be a good and bad thing. They share their own journeys with comparison and reasons why it is important to keep your head focused on your own lane. The girls also chat about new music and new tv shows that are breaking the internet. Sit back and relax as you chat with the girls about everything on their minds right now!