Anxiety and the Artist

Presence Under Pressure: Anxiety, Performance & Leadership with Gina Rattan

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:35:30 +0000

What do Broadway actors, Fortune 500 executives, and high-achieving creatives all wrestle with? Pressure and anxiety when it matters most.

In this episode, Allison talks with executive coach and former theater director Gina Rattan about performance anxiety, executive presence, and why “perfect” is often the most dangerous goal in the room. Drawing from years in theater and high-stakes leadership coaching, Gina shares practical, realistic tools for regulating the nervous system, managing fear of judgment, and showing up with clarity when the spotlight is on.

This conversation is for artists, leaders, and anyone who has ever thought, What if I blow it?

What We Talk About

How Gina went from directing Broadway shows to coaching executives
Why leadership is an authentic performance (and why that’s not a bad thing)
The three most common types of performance anxiety
How perfectionism quietly sabotages confidence
Why “fear of consistency” hits high achievers hardest
Simple nervous system tools you can use before a high-stakes moment
How to stop treating anxiety like a personal failure
Mantras that help artists and leaders stay grounded in uncertain times

About the Guest

Gina Rattan is a former theater director turned executive coach who works with performers under pressure, from Broadway and Oscar-winning actors to Fortune 500 executives. Her work focuses on communication, reputation, and helping people show up with clarity and authority when the stakes are high.

Find Gina Online

Website: green-room.io/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ginarattan/
Instagram: @green.room.io
Substack: Executive Functioning

Find Allison

Instagram: @anxietyandtheartist
Website: allisonsheff.com
Media & Production: grastamedia.com

Antonette Cohen on Self-Talk, Performance Psychology, and Sustainable Excellence for Artists

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:01:58 +0000

In this episode, Allison sits down with Antonette Cohen, a performance psychology consultant and former Broadway performer, to explore how self-talk shapes confidence, focus, and performance under pressure. Drawing from her lived experience as a longtime dance captain for Wicked and her training in sport and performance psychology, Antonette breaks down why anxiety, burnout, and self-doubt are not personal failures but gaps in psychological preparation.

Together, they discuss practical tools for navigating audition nerves, reframing destructive inner narratives, and why self-compassion is not a weakness but a performance enhancer. This conversation offers artists a more humane, sustainable path to excellence without sacrificing ambition.

✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Antonette’s journey from Broadway performer to performance psychology consultant
Why burnout and anxiety are common in elite performance environments
What performance psychology is and how it differs from therapy
How self-talk functions as the “inner narrative” performers live inside
A simple in-the-moment tool to create space from spiraling thoughts
The difference between thoughts that are true and thoughts that are helpful
Why deeply ingrained beliefs take time to shift and how to approach them safely
What research shows about self-compassion and high performance
Why kindness toward yourself does not lower the bar or reduce discipline
Understanding the uncomfortable “in-between” or liminal space of growth

🔗 Resources & Links:

Learn more about Antonette’s work: AntonetteCohen.com
Performance psychology practice: LiminalRise.com
Follow Antonette on Instagram: @AntonetteCohen
Research mentioned: Self-Compassion by Dr. Kristin Neff
Learn more about the host, Allison Sheff: AllisonSheff.com
Production & media projects: GrastaMedia.com

🎭 About the Guest:

Antonette Cohen is a performance psychology consultant specializing in mental skills training for performing artists. A former Broadway performer and longtime dance captain for Wicked, she combines lived experience from elite performance environments with graduate training in sport and performance psychology. Through her practice, Liminal Rise, she supports artists in building sustainable excellence, deeper presence, and a healthier relationship with their inner experience.

Keywords: performance psychology, self-talk for performers, performance anxiety, mental skills training, audition anxiety, self-compassion and performance, burnout prevention for artists, confidence under pressure, performing artists mental health, Antonette Cohen, Anxiety and the Artist

Selling Your Work Without Selling Yourself: A Conversation with Hilary Sutton

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:51 +0000

Allison talks with Hilary Sutton — writer, speaker, and fractional CMO — about building a multi-hyphenate career, promoting your work without oversharing, and the small daily habits that support mental health. Hilary breaks down what a fractional CMO actually does, how creatives can audit their online presence, and why most artists under-communicate their value.

Topics:

• What a fractional CMO is

• Setting boundaries in personal branding

• Auditing your online presence

• Reframing self-promotion as problem-solving

• Micro-habits for mental health

• The everyday bravery of creative work

Guest Links:

Website: hilarysutton.com

Instagram: @hilary.sutton

Hilary Sutton is a writer, speaker, and fractional CMO who leads HSL Digital, a marketing and communications consultancy. She’s also the creator of Hustle & Grace, host of the Hustle & Grace podcast, and author of the Substack The Motherload, where she explores creativity, work-life balance, and modern entrepreneurship. Her writing has appeared in HuffPost, The Washington Post, and USA Today.

Keywords: personal branding, fractional CMO, marketing strategy, creative careers, digital presence, entrepreneurship, mental health, artists

Psych Meds 101: A Conversation with Brad Lieberman, PMHNP

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 13:36:42 +0000

Today, Allison sits down with psychiatric nurse practitioner Brad Lieberman for a straightforward, judgment-free look at mental health medication. If you’ve ever wondered what antidepressants actually do, why antipsychotics have such an intimidating name, or whether tools like TMS, psychedelics, or propranolol are worth exploring, this episode gives you the plain-language guide you wish you had earlier.

Brad explains how clinicians really make decisions about meds, why most people don’t need them forever, and what to expect when starting or stopping treatment. They also dig into performance anxiety, genetic testing, and why Googling your symptoms is not the same as getting evaluated.

What We Cover

• The difference between antidepressants and antipsychotics (and why the names are misleading)

• How SSRIs may act as a “reset” that helps you learn new patterns more easily

• When medication is useful, and when it might not be

• Why some conditions require long-term medication and others don’t

• What genetic testing can and can’t tell you about medication choices

• Propranolol for stage fright: how it works, why performers use it, and who shouldn’t

• Newer treatments like TMS and psychedelic therapy

• What to do if a GP shrugs off your concerns or prescribes without a deeper evaluation

• Practical advice for artists dealing with anxiety, burnout, or isolation

Guest Bio

Brad Lieberman is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in high-stress and high-performance populations. He integrates therapeutic modalities, medication management, and emerging technologies to help individuals build resilience and return to full functioning. Learn more at lcptherapy.com.

Resources Mentioned

• LCP Therapy: https://lcptherapy.com

• Information on TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)

• GeneSight and GenoMind testing services (context provided without endorsement)

Keywords

mental health medication, antidepressants explained, antipsychotics info, performance anxiety help, propranolol for performers, how SSRIs work, neuroplasticity and mood, psychedelic therapy insights, TMS treatment basics, bipolar medication support, performer mental health, artist wellness, creative burnout support, stage fright solutions, high performance anxiety, tools for performers #AnxietyAndTheArtist #ToolsInTheToolbox #PsychMeds101 #CreativeWellbeing #MentalHealthPodcast #PerformanceAnxiety #ArtistWellness #PsychiatricMedication #ModernTherapy #HealingJourney

Social Anxiety, Second Acts, and Showing Up with Kevin Urban

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:01:09 +0000

In this episode, Allison sits down with business coach and “Possibleist” Kevin Urban for an honest, funny, and deeply relatable conversation about social anxiety, identity, and what it really takes to show up authentically as a creative. Kevin shares how his winding path—from competitive athlete to NYC actor to coach—shaped his understanding of misalignment, reinvention, and the quiet panic so many artists feel in social spaces. Together, they unpack why anxiety hits creatives harder, how to navigate networking without performing, and what it looks like to evolve into your second act with clarity and compassion.

In this episode we dive into:

Social anxiety and creatives
Range as a superpower
Following strengths vs. following expectations
The danger of misrepresenting yourself
Reinvention and "the second act"

Links:

Business Coaching for Creatives

Kevin Urban

Kevin Urban is a coach, speaker, strategist, and the self-described Possibleist. He began his professional journey as a competitive swimmer and an actor in New York City before expanding into communications, marketing, and business development. He holds a master’s degree in Positive Leadership and Coaching, where he blends positive psychology with performance and leadership training to help people evolve authentically.

Kevin has worked across multiple creative and corporate sectors, taught artists how to package and market themselves, and spent 13 years working at a camp for children with juvenile arthritis — a role that profoundly shaped his understanding of resilience, reframing, and human behavior.

Today, he focuses on coaching creatives and professionals through transitions, reinvention, and the complicated emotional terrain that comes with stepping into a new chapter of life. He brings humor, empathy, and a deeply personal understanding of anxiety, identity, and the power of authenticity to everything he does.

Keywords:

social anxiety, creative anxiety, artist anxiety, authenticity for artists, creative reinvention, midlife transition for creatives, Kevin Urban, Allison Sheff, the Possibleist, creative coaching, overcoming social anxiety, networking tips for artists, performance nerves, creative identity, imposter syndrome for artists, creative career transitions, actor branding, performer marketing, acting career advice, confidence for creatives, managing social anxiety as an artist, creative mindset, artist wellness, reinvention for artists, creative life coaching

Resilience and Reinvention: Building Mental Wellness for Dancers with Danscend Founders Michelle Loucadoux and Kristin Deiss

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 22:15:27 +0000

In this episode, Allison talks with Michelle Loucadoux and Kristin Deiss, co-founders of Danscend, a company dedicated to supporting the mental wellness of dancers, educators, and organizations.

Born out of the pandemic, Danscend began when Michelle and Kristin realized that while dance often nurtures emotional expression, there were few accessible tools to care for the mental health of the people behind the movement.

Together, they unpack what it really means to be resilient—how to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failure, and redefine success on your own terms. They share honest stories about career pivots, creative burnout, and the healing power of community.

· Redefining success after rejection or transition

· Building resilience through vulnerability and connection

· Tools for managing creative blocks and burnout

· Rest and distance as creative resets

· Building community and asking for support

· Redefining success beyond linear achievement

· Facing discomfort as a form of growth

“Resilience is staying in the discomfort long enough to understand how to move through it, instead of away from it.” – Michelle Loucadoux

"Talent will get you into the room, resilience will keep you in the room" -Kristin Deiss

🔗 Connect with Danscend

Discovery Keywords:

dance, dancer wellness, resilience, mental health, creativity, burnout, recovery, Danscend, performance anxiety, artistic growth, creative process, self-care, overcoming rejection, reinvention, mindfulness, dance education, artists, well-being, balance, creativity and mental health

Rediscovering Your Creative Juiciness with Alexandra Beller

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:24:11 +0000

In this episode, Allison sits down with acclaimed choreographer, director, and educator Alexandra Beller to explore what it really takes to rediscover your creative juiciness — especially when inspiration feels far away.

Alexandra, a veteran of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, shares her remarkable journey from dancer to director to author. She opens up about battling perfectionism, learning to trust her process, and how neurodivergence shaped her creative rhythm.

Together, they unpack the myths of instant inspiration, the discipline behind “just doing it,” and how to rebuild your creative muscles when you’ve been stuck. Alexandra also reveals how she’s integrated AI as a thinking partner to overcome executive function challenges while finishing two books — a surprisingly hopeful perspective on technology as a tool for self-expression.

Listeners will walk away with real, repeatable strategies for reigniting creativity:

How to show up for your art even when you’re uninspired
The difference between craft and art — and why both matter
How to quiet your inner critic by separating your intuitive and analytical mind
Why small, consistent creative acts can lead to big breakthroughs

This conversation is a love letter to artists navigating the messy, magical middle of their process.

Resources: https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/

#CreativeProcess #ArtistWellness #PerformingArts #ToolsInTheToolbox #Choreography #TheAnatomyOfArt #EmbodiedCreativity #NeurodivergentArtists #RediscoverCreativity #DanceTheater #CreativeJuiciness #ArtistsSupportingArtists #ArtisticInspiration #BehindTheCurtain #AllisonSheffPodcast

Affordable Healthcare for Artists: Navigating Insurance with Jim Bracchitta

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:01:27 +0000

In this episode, Allison Sheff sits down with Jim Bracchitta, Associate Director of Health Services at the Entertainment Community Fund, to unpack one of the most confusing and essential topics for artists: how to access affordable healthcare.

A veteran actor with over 35 years in the industry — six Broadway shows, countless commercials (yes, he was the voice of “When you’re here, you’re family” for Olive Garden) — Jim brings insider knowledge and real-world empathy to the conversation. Together, Allison and Jim explore how the Fund supports the creative community with healthcare navigation, mental health services, and more.

Listen if you want to learn:

How to get health insurance if you’ve lost coverage
Why “affordable” doesn’t always mean “cheap” — and vice versa
What artists should know before the next enrollment cycle
How to access mental health support without breaking the bank

Resources:

Entertainment Community Fund – Health Services

Guest Bio:

Jim Bracchitta is the Associate Director of Health Services at the Entertainment Community Fund, a labor trustee for SAG-AFTRA benefit plans, and a longtime advocate for artists’ wellbeing. Before joining the Fund, Jim spent over three decades as an actor, appearing on Broadway, television, and in thousands of commercials.

#EntertainmentCommunityFund #HealthcareForArtists #ArtistsSupportingArtists #CreativeHealth #PerformingArts #ArtistWellness #MentalHealthMatters #ToolsInTheToolbox #ArtsCommunity #AffordableHealthcare #ActorsLife #CreativeAnxiety #BehindTheCurtain #ArtsAccess

Physical Therapist and Former Dancer, Dr. Morgan Martin

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 01:45:00 +0000

Dr. Morgan Martin shares her journey from professional dancer to physical therapist. Specializing in pelvic floor and orthopedic PT, Dr. Martin and I discuss the physical toll of dancers training. She also shares some interesting insight on how the pelvic floor affects so many aspect of our mental and physical well being and provides some great anxiety reducing exercises for all artists to practice. A must listen!

Financial Literacy Educator, David Maurice Sharp

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 01:15:00 +0000

Former dancer turned financial literacy educator stops by to discuss all things artists and investing. We chat about different strategies for artists in different phases in their career, and how financial planning and investing can provide artists with the financial stability and the freedom to pursue the work they love....and most importantly, reduce anxiety!

Biofeedback Coach & Performer, Rita Neidich

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 05:05:00 +0000

With a BM in vocal performance and an MS in Organizational and Performance Psychology, Rita seamlessly combines these two passions into helping performers build resilience through biofeedback. We chat about what biofeedback is and how artists can use it to combat their anxiety, as well as red flags in the wellness community, and what to look for in a practitioner.

A wealth of knowledge and compassion, Rita's story and her mission are inspiring.

Leadership Coach, Michael Cedar

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:05:00 +0000

Are you a visionary, a manager or an artist? In this episode we welcome back one of our most downloaded guests, Leadership and Mindset Coach, Michael Cedar. We do a deep dive into leadership and values in the arts. Michael provides some clarity about different types of leadership and how to collaborate and create art that is aligned with your values. He also shares some hilarious antidotes of the times he screwed up as a leader, and what he learned from those experiences.

Comedian Carole Montgomery

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 04:05:00 +0000

Veteran comedian and creator/star of the Showtime Special Funny Women of a Certain Age, Carole Montgomery imparts what she has learned from 45 years in the business. Her confidence is contagious and inspiring.

Therapist & Former Dancer, Terry Hyde

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 04:05:00 +0000

Terry is a former member of the Royal Ballet and creator of the app Help4Dancers. He has some great re-frames for anxiety and tips for neurodivergent performers. His episode will leave you saying "I'm excited to perform!"

Screenwriter, Dicky Murphy

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 19:03:25 +0000

Screenwriter Dicky Murphy is the creator of the Nickelodeon show Erin and Aaron. Dicky has the craziest story about the 5+ years journey that it took to get the show from conception to on air. Dicky is also one of the most down-to-earth, genuine guys I've ever had the privilege of knowing in this crazy business, and his attitude and approach to his art is both uplifting and inspiring.

Casting Director, Stacy Gallo

Wed, 25 May 2022 04:05:00 +0000

Casting Director Stacy Gallo joins us to chat about the “dark cloud” that sometimes followed her, and her blunt approach to dealing with depression and anxiety. Witty and down-to-earth, Stacy gives us an honest window into the casting world and shares her advice for other artists that might be struggling.

Kinesiologist, Mike Zhao

Wed, 11 May 2022 04:05:00 +0000

Former Marine turned Kinesiologist, Mike Zhao joins us to talk about the mind-body connection and how anxiety and depression can manifest as physical symptoms in the body. Currently completing his training as a psychotherapist, Mike also shares his thoughts on our medical system and the actions that artists can take to ensure that they are being treated as a whole being.

Comedian and Writer, Erin Maguire

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 04:05:00 +0000

Didn’t think you could laugh about OCD and anxiety? Well, check this episode out! Erin Maguire shares her childhood experience with OCD and how she has channeled that into her art, the dangers of doing stand-up comedy during a twerking competition, and accepting the joy that the path she is on is far more interesting and rewarding than the one she had planned. A must listen!

Social Worker, Chris Smith

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 04:05:00 +0000

National Director of the Looking Ahead program with The Actors Fund, Chris shares his thoughts on mental health issues that he sees child performers coping with, and offers some healthy guidelines for parents and arts leaders, as well as tools and insight for children struggling with anxiety.

For more information on the resources discussed, please visit our website: anxietyandtheartist.com

Writer & Actor, Greg Stone

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 04:05:00 +0000

With honesty, wit and candor, Greg shares his journey to sobriety. We discuss the anxieties and circumstances of his artistic career that led him to alcohol addiction, how he decided to take back control and how his recovery is currently informing his art.

For more information on the resources discussed, please visit our website: anxietyandtheartist.com

Therapist & Author, Lair Torrent

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:05:00 +0000

Relationship therapist, author and former performer, Lair Torrent joins us to discuss all things relationships. Addressing the languishing and hopelessness that is currently plaguing so many artists, Lair applies his five practices for making relationships work, to artists and their relationships with themselves and their careers. You’ll love his no-nonsense approach and call to action!

For more information on Lair and the resources we discussed, please visit our website: anxietyandtheartist.com

Actor & Producer, Stephanie Kurtzuba

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 05:05:00 +0000

“We f*#king love her, Jordan!” Actor and all around awesome human, Stephanie Kurtzuba joins us to talk about all things industry and her famous line from The Wolf of Wall Street. After many successful and numerous film, TV and theater roles, Stephanie still faces the “I’m never going to work again!” moments that plague all artists. She shares her tips and tricks for what gets her through those darker times, dealing with your inner critic, being a working mom in the biz, and what actions to take when you’re feeling down.

Visit our website for more info on Stephanie and a list of mental health resources.

Access to Care with Chris Smith

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:05:00 +0000

The fifth episode in our Access to Care mini series, I chat with Actors Fund social worker Chris Smith. Chris shares the abundant resources and services that The Actors Fund offers for artists. He also provides guidance for anyone who might currently be in crisis and where they can reach out. As a counselor trained in facilitating healing from racial trauma, Chris also offers specific mental health resources for the BIPOC community.

For a full list of resources, please visit our website.

Access to Care with Mike Zhao

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 05:05:00 +0000

Diving deeper into some previously recommended sources, this week we chat with kinesiologist Mike Zhao who is currently pursuing his Masters degree in Clinical Psychology. Mike talks us through the process of working with a clinical intern as a therapist, what to expect, what checks and balances are in place, and where you can find clinical interns to work with. We also discuss the importance of finding a therapist that is the right fit.

Access to Care with Patty Martin

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:05:00 +0000

This episode is the third in our special mini-series, Access to Care. Many times on this program, we talk about the importance of therapy. However, we acknowledge that therapy is a privilege, and is not always accessible or affordable to those that need it most. I’ve invited mental health professionals to talk about access to care: where to find affordable therapy, and the tools and resources that are available, should therapy not be accessible.

In this episode I chat with Associate Professor of Counseling, Patty Martin. Patty and I discuss where college students can access therapy on campus, and other groups and organizations they can reach out to for support with their mental health. We also discuss what to do if you feel a roommate or a friend is in crisis, and resources for parents who might be concerned about their child's mental health.

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Matthew Mindler.

Access to Care with Simon Ward

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 05:05:00 +0000

Many times on this program, we talk about the importance of therapy. However, we acknowledge that therapy is a privilege, and is not always accessible or affordable to those that need it most. I’ve invited some of my previous guests to talk about access to care: where to find affordable therapy, and the tools and resources that are available, should therapy not be accessible.

In this second episode in our Access to Care mini-series we welcome back actor, psychologist and educator, Simon Ward. Simon and I chat about creating community and the ways in which social media can both help and hinder that, and how it affects our mental health. Simon also provides a fantastic analogy for self care and ways to support ourselves when therapy isn't accessible.

Access to Care with Lisa Gajda Maiolo

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 04:05:00 +0000

This episode is the first in our special mini-series, Access to Care. Many times on this program, we talk about the importance of therapy. However, we acknowledge that therapy is a privilege, and is not always accessible or affordable to those that need it most. I’ve invited some of my previous guests to talk about access to care: where to find affordable therapy, and the tools and resources that are available, should therapy not be accessible.

Today we welcome back therapist Lisa Gajda. Lisa was a professional dancer for over 30 years, appearing in 18 Broadway shows. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, performing artists, parenting and relational issues.

Lisa and I discuss the importance of community and she offers some guidelines for artists who are interested in creating their own support groups, in addition to resources for low-cost therapy.

Actor, Psychologist and Educator, Simon Ward

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 04:05:00 +0000

In this episode I have a heartwarming conversation with actor, psychologist and educator Simon Ward about where the arts and mental health intersect, and what steps educators and arts leaders can take to create a healthier learning environment and rehearsal space. Simon’s joy and passion are infectious. Prepare to be inspired and motivated.

Behavioral Therapist, Dr. Marcie Beigel

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 04:05:00 +0000

Dr. Marcie and I chat about re-opening anxiety and the simple steps we can take to manage our anxiety and feel safe and secure in these uncertain times. We also discuss parenting a child with anxiety and what ways for parents to navigate and manage their own anxiety. Dr. Marcie is a gem and a wealth of wisdom! You don’t want to miss this episode!

Writer Amber Petty

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 04:05:00 +0000

With wit, humor and grace, writer Amber Petty discusses her transition from performer to writer, and all the emotions that went along with it. Amber talks about finally coming to terms with the anxiety and depression that had been lurking in the shadows for years, and the grieving process she went through when she finally made the decision to change careers. Oh, and she’s really funny…we also talk about her seminal and most important work, a book of short stories inspired by the musical Cats.

Dancer Turned Psychotherapist, John Carroll

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 04:05:00 +0000

FOMO anyone? In this episode I chat with Equity Therapy founder and psychotherapist John Carroll about post-COVID reopening anxiety and FOMO. John is a Julliard trained dancer who enjoyed an extensive career on Broadway before transitioning into his second career as a therapist who specializes in working with performing artists.

Tony Nominee turned Therapist, Bobby Steggert

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 04:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with former Tony Nominated actor turned psychotherapist Bobby Steggert about our changing identity as artists and social anxiety in the rehearsal room.

Actor and Advocate, Dria Brown

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 04:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with actor and advocate Dria Brown about the physical toll anxiety was taking on her body, her reluctance in seeking help, and her path to healing. We also talk about her work with the Broadway Advocacy Coalition.

Composer & Music Director, Nicholas Kaminski

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 04:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with composer and music director Nicholas Kaminski about dating in the industry, social dynamics and the science behind showmances.

Tony Nominated Actor, Caitlin Kinnunen

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with Tony nominee Caitlin Kinnunen about her early experiences with panic attacks on stage, making peace with your anxiety, and the necessary changes we’d like to see in the industry to better support artists mental health.

Veteran, Author & Yogi, David Glazebrook

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with veteran, author and yogi David Glazebrook about his experience with PTSD and his journey to healing. As both a yogi and professional emergency manager, David discusses ways to manage anger and find peace amidst chaos.

Performer and Advocate, Antoinette Comer

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with performer Antoinette Comer about her “Aha Moment” at the beginning of 2020 and how that shaped her year and her response to the pandemic. We also discuss racism in the industry and the importance of identity.

Dancer turned Therapist, Lisa Gajda

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode Broadway dancer turned therapist Lisa Gajda defines anxiety, and we discuss how artists identity has been challenged during COVID. We also talk about the actions artists can take to explore and express their creativity during an industry shutdown.

Host Allison Sheff in conversation with The Ensemblist's Mo Brady

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 05:05:00 +0000

For Mental Health Month we’ve partnered with The Ensemblist. In this week’s episode, our host Allison Sheff chats with The Ensemblist's Mo Brady about her background as a performer, her relationship with anxiety and facilitating a more supportive rehearsal process. Allison also talks about what her guests have taught her over two seasons and her own methods for mitigating anxiety.

Thriving Artists, Part 2, Christine Negherbon

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with choreographer, author and educator Christine Negherbon. We talk about raising children while pursuing a career in the arts and giving yourself grace. We also talk about The Thriving Artists, a book and training program she created with her husband, Joe Abraham, that helps artists thrive both as artists and as business people. Christine also provides some great insight into parenting a child with anxiety.

Thriving Artists, Part 1, Joe Abraham

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with actor, author and educator Joe Abraham about the expectations we put on ourselves as artists and how to re-frame the COVID experience. Joe also talks about The Thriving Artists, a book and training program he created with his wife, actor and dancer Christine Negherbon, that helps artists thrive both as artists and as business people. We examine the Starving Artist versus the Thriving Artist mentality and how to operate from a place of gratitude and abundance.

Ballerina turned Writer & Advocate, Kathleen McGuire Gaines

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with former classical ballerina turned writer and mental health advocate, Kathleen McGuire Gaines. We chat about her organization Minding the Gap, a mental health advocacy group for dancers. Kathleen and I also chat about the importance identity, the prevalence of shame based motivation and simple steps that studios and dance companies can take to promote a healthier environment.

Broadway Actor and Advocate, Sierra Boggess

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 05:05:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with Broadway actor and advocate, Sierra Boggess. Sierra talks about her experience with anxiety and we discuss valuing ourselves as artists, the importance of self-awareness and her friendship with Wayne Dyer.

Therapist and Producer, Audrey Grubb

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 05:05:00 +0000

Therapist and producer of the college edition of "This is My Brave", Audrey Grubb joins us to talk about her experience with anxiety. We explore the shape shifting of her anxiety that eventually led to an eating disorder and how she found empowerment in sharing her story and helping others who are also struggling. Audrey also shares some of her favorite exercises for mitigating anxiety and we discuss navigating depression and anxiety during COVID.

Performer, Educator and Author, Michelle Loucadoux

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 04:05:00 +0000

Former ballet dancer and Broadway performer turned writer and educator Michelle Loucadoux joins us to chat about audition anxiety, nurturing your inner critic and the importance of self care. We also talk about the era of the multi-hypenate artist and pivoting during COVID-19.

Dancer turned Eating Disorder Specialist, George Livengood

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 04:05:00 +0000

Performer turned therapist George Livengood talks about eating disorders, positive body image and maintaining a healthy mindset while meeting industry demands. We also talk about forming a healthy sense of self, creating a supportive community and how those in leadership have the power to create positive change in the industry.

Queer Artist, Educator and Advocate Tyler C. Picone

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with queer artist, educator and mental health advocate Tyler C. Picone (aka Magenta Milian). Tyler clarifies some LGBTQ terms and how they relate to identity. We explore co-dependency in relationships, and the need for control in our everyday lives. We also discuss the purpose and service of so-called negative emotions.

Producer, Executive Coach & Leadership Expert, Michael Cedar

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Michael Cedar shares how his background in acting, company management and producing informed his successful personal development career. In this episode we talk about how early life experiences can be the root of anxiety later in our life, the danger of comparison, spiritual bypasses, and the freedom in disappointing others.

Actor, Producer & Stage IV Cancer Patient, Erin Cronican

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 10:08:29 +0000

Actor and Producer Erin Cronican discusses what she learned when a cancer diagnosis forced her to face some underlying anxiety and depression, how it's inspired her outlook and informing her art.

Emmy Winning Medical Clown and TED Speaker, Matthew A. Wilson

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 21:54:24 +0000

Emmy Winning Performance Artist, Medical Clown and TED Speaker Matthew A. Wilson discusses the importance of play in our adult lives. We also explore what being a medical clown has taught him about dealing with anxiety and how being in touch with his physicality has brought him a deeper understanding of his own emotions.

Actor, Hypnotist & Strategic Mindset coach Karen Elliott.

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:50:31 +0000

In this episode I chat with Karen Elliott, a Broadway performer, Hypnotist and Strategic Mindset Coach. Karen discusses how a debilitating car accident led her to hypnosis, which led her to use mental skills modalities to help other artists achieve success. We discuss the pros and cons of The Law of Attraction and the poverty mindset trap.

Elissa Goldstein, Part 2. Elissa demystifies therapy and therapists.

Fri, 29 May 2020 15:11:34 +0000

In Part 2 of my conversation with Elissa Goldstein we discuss what types of therapy exist to help artists treat their anxiety and what to look for in a therapist.

Elissa Goldstein, Part 1. Elissa discusses what anxiety is and how it specifically affects artists.

Thu, 21 May 2020 17:08:41 +0000

In this episode I chat with actor turned psychotherapist Elissa Goldstein. We define what anxiety is and then we explore the ways that anxiety specifically affects artists. Elissa also discusses how her background as an actor has informed her career as a therapist.

Trailer

Sat, 16 May 2020 16:17:18 +0000

Host Allison Sheff shares her inspiration behind creating a podcast about artists relationship with anxiety.