Actors in Conversation: Slice of Life with Margie Haber

EP. 60 Jeff WitjasPartner | Senior VP, Talent at IAGMargie reconnects with her old friend, talent agent, Jeff Witjas in a conversation spanning decades.  You've heard of people starting out in the mailroom at William Morris… well, that was Jeff Witjas in the late '70's.  During his 25 years at WMA, and later as Senior VP of Talent at APA, he has enjoyed much success and worked with such icons as Betty White, Jerry Lewis, Mary Tyler Moore, Bob Hope, George C. Scott and many more.  Now a Partner at IAG, his current roster includes Smokey Robinson, Jason Momoa, Elliot Gould, Jon Seda and Lucille Soong, among others.  Jeff and Margie trade stories and laughs in this very enjoyable podcast.

EP. 59 ANTHONY MEINDLWriter | Director | TeacherMargie talks with her friend and colleague, the wildly popular Anthony Meindl, who founded AMAW, Anthony Meindl's Actor Workshop, now in its' 27th year.  AMAW is the largest scene study studio in LA with locations in 10 other cities worldwide.  Tony is the author of 5 books, including best-sellers, At Left Brain Turn Right and Book the F*cking Job.  His film, Where We Go From Here was recently acquired by HULU.  Margie and Anthony share similar acting philosophies, encouraging actors to let go, surrender and live in the moment.  They are all about helping actors get in touch with their power, accepting the many parts of themselves and saying, “Yes!” to life. Hear what happens when two of the top acting coaches in the world trade stories.   They PLAY, they RISK, and they are not afraid to BE MESSY.  

EP. 58 RACHEL LEYCO Filipino American Filmmaker | ActressRachel Leyco is an award-winning queer Filipino American multi-hyphenate filmmaker, actress, and content creator.  As an actress, she can be seen on numerous TV shows, such as Netflix's Atypical, BET's Games People Play, Peacock's Bel-Air, and NBC's Chicago Fire.  Recently, she starred in the new holiday rom-com, Yuletide the Knot, and the new Tubi Original thriller, What Happens in Miami.Defying her family expectations and stereotypes, Rachel f*cked her comfort zone after high school and told her Mom that she was going to pursue acting and film school.  Growing up in a Christian household, she went to church every weekend where she was taught that homosexuality was wrong and a sin. Her biggest struggle was coming out and learning to accept herself.  In her early twenties, she f*cked that comfort zone and is proud to be living out her authentic self!  Margie and Rachel talk openly about their similar challenges in coming out.  Margie's curious-self questions Rachel about labels like gay, queer, bisexual, pansexual and more.  As an advocate for mental health, Rachel discusses her struggles with depression and anxiety and shares some very helpful self-care tools. Rachel also gets into her acting career and how Margie's class has inspired her to bring the joy into her auditions and, you guessed it, f*ck your comfort zone!

EP. 57 DR. SHERRYOb/Gyn, Author, and Health ExpertMargie f*cks her comfort zone with a candid conversation with Dr. Sheryl A. Ross, aka “Dr. Sherry.”  A passionate advocate for women's health for over 25 years, Dr. Sherry is the author of She-ology: The Definitve Guide to Women's Intimate Health, and She-ology, the she-quel, Let's Continue the Conversation.  Her series “Lady Parts” on Sarah Hyland and Ellen's digital network was nominated for the Critic's Choice Real TV Awards.  In this episode, Margie and Dr. Sherry discuss questions like What do you call your vagina?  Do you know what's down there?  Why are we so embarrassed? and What type of vibrator do you have?  No topic is off limits, as they touch on body shame, #MeToo, porn, trans and sexual identity, the abortion issue, politics, women's rights, gay rights, self empowerment, you name it!    Twitter @DrSherylRossInstgram@drsherryrFacebook DrSherryRdrsherry.com

EP. 56 DR. ARLENE DRAKE, PhD, MFTPsychotherapist | AuthorMargie is excited to welcome her friend, Arlene Drake on the podcast.  A psychotherapist for over 40 years specializing in trauma recover, Dr. Arlene Drake is a pioneer in the field of adult survivors of childhood abuse.  She is the author of Carefrontation - Breaking Free From Childhood Trauma.  And…she happens to be a former actress, best known for her work on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.  Margie and Arlene have a spirited conversation about Arlene's book and the steps to repair the damage of your childhood and take care of your inner child.  Arlene speaks directly to the little kid inside each of us on this journey to healing.  

EP. 55 CHRIS SCHELLENGERActor | Model | Teacher | Drag QueenChris Schellenger is an actor, model and one of Margie's wonderful teachers.  He was a finalist on America's Next Top Model and has acted in umpteen commercials and in such films as NY84, They Found Hell, Wineville and an upcoming feature (his first role in drag) which we can't talk about since he signed an NDA.  Chris shares his experience of booking a self-tape with Paul Schrader (Taxi Driver) /Lindsay Lohan - in 2013, way before they became popular.  Chris talks about his love of the Margie Haber Studio, both as an actor and a teacher and how Margie plucked him out of her class to teach.  Margie was excited to hear about his recent role on the TV show, Hacks, where he lived the life of a drag queen.  Margie and Chris have an intimate, open discussion about Chris being fluid, the challenges of growing up dressing as a girl and some great advice to parents who may have a trans child. Chris ends the podcast validating men who have a strong feminine side or women who identify more male and how to embrace it and remove any shame around it.  

EP. 54 SALLY STEWARTActor“Ever since I've worked with you, I've either gotten a callback or booked."Sally, on working with MargieSally has been a professional actor for over 20 years.  She has guest-starred on such series as Bull, FBI Most Wanted, Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, The Sopranos and New York Undercover.  With roles from a judge to a lawyer to a victim, she has lived them all.  Sally shares what it is like to be cast as a co-star supporting the story rather than being the star.  She has also acted in theater and had the privilege of working opposite the legendary Ruby Dee.  Sally played Rose in August Wilson's, Fence, directed by Broadway director, Marion McClinton.  Margie and Sally discuss the challenges of playing such a complicated character.Sally has created, written and produced a series called Pop Pairing.   Sally starts off with her Southern, American, Jamaican, New York City roots and her journey as an actress.  She shares her challenges as well as her fears.  Margie remarks on her amazing growth since starting her class a year ago.  Sally shares how it has changed her approach to acting by simplifying and being more specific with auditioning.   The podcast concludes with Sally's advice for actors.

EP. 53 Alexandra PaulActress | Activist | Co-host of Switch4Good Podcast There are so many layers to Alexandra Paul and Margie hits all of them on this podcast.  Firstly, her acting career.  What was it like to star on the iconic TV series, “Baywatch” for five years, as well as her 100 movies and other TV shows?  [Margie's wife is obsessed with Alexandra's Lifetime movies!] They discuss Alexandra's dedication as an athlete and how that helped her find the discipline she needed to be a working actress. Next, they explore Alexandra's journey into becoming a vegan, which also led to her role as an activist and being arrested countless times to protect animals and human rights.  In her last effort, she was acquitted for rescuing a chicken from a slaughter truck.  And lastly, they riff on how all this has led her to co-host her amazing podcast, Switch4Good, which encourages listeners to “Ditch Dairy.  Feel Awesome.  Save the World.”  Don't miss Margie's conversation with Alexandra Paul, which is filled with love and respect for each other.  

EP. 52 Kim Krejus Artistic Director, 16th St Actors StudioMelbourne, Australia Kim is the founder and artistic director of 16th St Actors Studio in Melbourne Australia.  It is a prestigious creative space for actors to train in all levels of their creative development and has a not-for-profit foundation that is opening up opportunities for emerging writers and directors. Kim started out as a film actor receiving an Australian Film Institute best actress nomination for the film, "Mouth to Mouth."  She was so young! Just 19.Kim shares her challenges growing up as a Catholic with an abusive alcoholic stepfather and how this shaped her life to become a kind person who cares about people.  Margie and Kim discuss alcoholism and Alanon and how Margie's book, "F*ck Your Comfort Zone" can help those who get caught in the triangle of rescuer, victim and persecutor.  Kim got out of her comfort zone with Buddhism, which helped her deal with the tragedy of losing her sister to cancer when she was in her 50's.  Margie and Kim have so much in common as they share what it is like to own an acting studio and their passion for teaching.  In the end, they give actors some insight on how they create characters.  

EP 51. FABRIZIO TRAVERSA, ITALIAN ACTORIn this podcast, Margie talks to her student and friend, Fabrizio, from Italy, about the challenges of being so handsome that people often don't see past your looks.  In Hollywood, beauty is so important.  Margie and Fabrizio discuss how this phenomenon has affected his life and how therapy has helped him see who he is underneath the exterior, appreciate it and grow from the inside.  Fabrizio talks about his critical parent, a term from Margie's book,  F*ck your Comfort Zone,  “Am I smart enough, vulnerable enough?”  They discuss Hollywood's handsome leading men such as Paul Newman and Robert Redford, and what they brought to their characters from their core, even in comedy.  Margie and Fabrizio talk about his career, the International Studies Program, Fabrizio's growth as an actor and what he is taking with him as he returns to Rome after visiting for 3 weeks.   

EP. 50 MARK MEASURESTalent Agent, President of KMR TalentMark is president of Kazarian/Measures/Ruskin & Associates and has represented such stars as Brad Pitt, Cameron Diaz, Chris Pratt, Jane Lynch, Terrance Howard and Margie's wonderful student, Melanie Nicholls-King.  Mark shares some intimate childhood memories of losing his parents at a young age and dropping out of high school. He began his career as a commercial agent in 1988.  (Ironically working for the same agencies that Margie worked with at the start of her commercial career - TGI and Harry Abrams.)  Both Mark and Margie also worked with Brad Pitt and Halle Berry.  And they discovered another thing in common - their favorite musical, “Ragtime!” (which is Margie's son, Michael's favorite as well!)  Mark discusses what makes an actor successful in commercials, theater and film/tv.  He goes over his checklist for success, what makes a good self-tape, cover letter, head shots and gives his viewpoint on managers vs agents.  They also discuss the question of authenticity in casting – for instance, whether one should hire a gay actor for a gay role, and the company's championing of actors with disabilities.  Margie and Mark end the conversation with questions from her students and a wise suggestion from Mark - "Do one thing for your career each day and you will have done 365 of them at the end of the year!”www.kmrtalent.com    

EP. 49 Jackson KellyActorFor a young guy, Jackson has been very busy as a series regular in “Lucky Hank” with well-known actor Bob Odenkirk from “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” and his new series for Disney, “Witch Mountain” starring Bryce Dallas Howard, as well as the Oscar-nominated short, “My Year of Dicks,” streaming on Hulu and many other productions soon to be released. Margie and Jackson talk about what it was like working with Bob Odenkirk and how he got the part, as well as his first feature film and WItch Mountain.Margie and Kelly recall the first time they met when he was just 18 starring in the movie, “Hard Miles” with her student, Richard Gunn.  Ironically, the film was about an anorexic boy, while Kelly was keeping his own secret that he, too, was suffering from the same disease.Most rewarding is that Jackson decided to use this podcast as a way to “out“ himself and share his eating disorder.  Margie remembers the time that she kindly asked if he had an eating disorder and Jackson bravely outed himself about his challenges and setbacks over the past four years.  If anyone has an eating disorder or knows someone suffering from it, please share this podcast with them.  It is inspiring, as Kelly truly "F*cked his comfort zone!"

EP. 48 Rabbi Denise EgerSpiritual Leader | Social Activist | AuthorIn celebration of Pride Month, Margie talks with her longtime friend and rabbi, renowned activist and leader, Rabbi Denise L. Eger, who has been at the forefront of the fight for LGBTQ equality for decades. Rabbi Eger is the founding rabbi of Congregation Kol Ami, West Hollywood's Reform Synagogue and was the first openly LGBTQ person to be President of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. She was a founding President of the Lesbian, Gay, & Bisexual Interfaith Clergy Association and the first woman to be elected President of the Southern California Board of Rabbis.Rabbi Eger officiated the first legal wedding for a lesbian couple in California. Among her many honors, in October 2011, Rabbi Eger was named a GLBT Icon for her long history of activism and service for Gay and Lesbian History Month by the Equality Forum.Margie and Rabbi Eger talk about how we have a choice in life to submit or rise up. Denise recalls her childhood, growing up with older parents in the South where many places excluded Jews, and shares a haunting memory of the Klu Klux Klan walking down Memphis streets. Rabbi Eger was ordained in 1988 during the AIDS crisis.  She and Margie discuss the challenges of being a Rabbi during that time with so many young gay boys dying and how she and others dealt with all the loss. They cover “The 7 Principles for Living Bravely,” Rabbi Eger's new book which she co-wrote with her colleague, Reverend Neil Thomas - Mourning, Truth, Rest, Love, Prayer, Joy and Hope.  The podcast is filled with hope on how to live fully with empathy during this stressful time of divisive politics where there are threats to marriage equality, attacks on reproduction healthcare and the dehumanization of transgender people, ending with the ever present question - How we can all help to make this a better world a better place? One relationship at a time.Insta @rabbideniseeger  Fb @Deniseeger and @Rabbi Denise L Eger and @7principlesforlivingbravely Rabbi Eger is a 3-time author whose latest book is co-authored with Rev. Dr. Neil G. Thomas, "7 Priniciples for Living Bravely" a book of of interfaith spiritual principles that helps us weather the storms of adversity.  Look for it on Amazon or your local bookstore.

Sterling Hawkins is an entrepreneur, an investor, a keynote speaker and the author of a wonderful book called, “Hunting Discomfort.”  Margie talks to Sterling about their first encounter, ‘Strangers on a plane,' where 12 years ago they spent 6 hours as strangers getting to know each other on a flight and formed an intimate friendship that has lasted all these years.Sterling shares his journey through his doubts, loss and enormous successes in the business world and his personal life.  Margie asks some difficult questions about his personal relationships and his amazing success in the world of motivational speaking.  He shares the ‘5 steps of discomfort' from his book, giving our listeners tools for grow both as people as well as navigating the business world.Website: sterlinghawkins.comYouTube: @sterling.hawkins

Margie talks with British Actor, Kris Saddler about his childhood and the challenges that led him to comedy.  Kris was recently a series regular on the UK sitcom, Kate and Koji, written by the brilliant Guy Jenkins and Andy Hamilton.  Kris has starred in such films as Spitfire over Berlin, a Netflix horror film called Await Further Instructions and the war film, Lancaster Skies.  He co-starred in a drama, now being acquired by Netflix called Adult Material where he plays a porn star.  Kris talks about creating with joy and passion, the pressure to be perfect in self-tapes, and learning to be freer and using his body.  He now considers his childhood issues like dyslexia as superpowers.  Kris has also begun writing and producing.  He produced 5 fantastic short films during lockdown and is currently writing a new sitcom.

Margie catches up with her old student and friend, Tom Sawyer.  Tom has been an actor for 20 years.  In 2022, Tom won "Best Actor in a Drama Feature" at Kevin Smiths inaugural SmodacastleFilm Festival.  He has been featured in films selected for South by South West, Frightfest and New York International Independent Film and Video Festival.  Tom's TV credits include The Bill, Casualty, Hollyoaks and Family Affairs as well as different theater productions throughout England.As a coach, Tom works with actors from all over the world focusing on screen acting and the Meisner Technique.  He is co-founder and tutor of Screen Actors London and was selected as a top acting coach by coachfoundation.com. In this intimate, honest conversation, Margie and Tom discuss his childhood, his struggles and his challenges getting out of his comfort zone.  He shares his journey as a person, an actor and an acting coach in this podcast exploring our own vulnerabilities and strengths in striving to be the best human one can be.

Margie talks with longtime friend and iconic culinarian, author, and entrepreneur Susan Feniger, best known for her Modern Mexican, Border Grill restaurants, trucks, and catering; BBQ Mexicana and Pacha Mamas, fast casual eateries in Las Vegas; and Socalo, a California canteen and Mexican pub in Santa Monica all created with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. Susan has co-authored six cookbooks, starred on The Food Network's popular “Too Hot Tamales” and competed on Bravo's “Top Chef Masters.” In 2018, Feniger and Milliken were the recipients of the Julia Child Award and honored with the Gold Award from the LA Times for culinary excellence and innovation in SoCal. Feniger is active in the community, and currently sits on the boards of the Scleroderma Research Foundation, Los Angeles LGBT Center, and L.A. Tourism & Convention Board; she also works closely with the Monterey Bay Aquarium as a member of the Blue Ribbon Task Force, a panel of culinary leaders committed to innovative outreach to promote sustainable seafood.  As busy and accomplished as she is, Susan is equally generous, funny and plays a mean game of tennis [not to mention golf, skiing and pickleball!] Enjoy this spirited conversation with Margie and Susan!

Casting DirectorPart 2Margie continues her conversation with longtime friend and colleague, 4-time Emmy award-winning Casting Director, John Frank Levey.  John is best known for casting such iconic shows as China Beach, ER, The West Wing, Third Watch and more recently, Shameless, SEAL Team and Animal Kingdom.  John and Margie discuss sex and casting, how the business of casting has changed over the years, self-tapes, the power of silence, the “IT” factor, charisma and more.  Don't forget to check out John's new book, Right for the Role, a must-read for aspiring actors and casting directors.  

Casting DirectorMargie talks with her longtime friend and colleague, 4-time Emmy award-winning Casting Director, John Frank Levey.  John is best known for casting such iconic shows as China Beach, ER, The West Wing, Third Watch and more recently, Shameless, SEAL Team and Animal Kingdom.  John and Margie talk about how the business of casting has changed over the years, the “IT” factor, charisma and the early days of casting ER and working with heavyweight creators like John Wells from ER and Aaron Sorkin from West Wing.  John's new book, Right for the Role, is a must-read for aspiring actors and casting directors. 

Aubrey Dollar is a Los Angeles based actor, who can be seen in Netflix's upcoming film "The Pain Hustlers" starring Emily Blunt and Chris Evans. She was recently a series regular on Fox's "Filthy Rich" opposite Kim Cattrall. Previously, she starred in Vince Gillian's "Battle Creek" for CBS with Margie's student,  Josh Duhamel as well as the ABC drama, "Women's Murder Club" and Fox's "Point Pleasant."  Her feature credits include "See Girl Run" opposite Adam Scott and Sony's "Hard Luck" with Wesley Snipes.  Aubrey shares her early work on soap operas with Margie, “doing the do's,” working with objects, and dealing with her critical parent in auditions.  In the midst of her career, she went back to school and got her psychology degree.  Aubrey discusses self tapes and how getting back into acting class has awakened her joy of creating again.

Margie talks with her former student, actor Alex Rich.  Alex was nominated for a 2019 Critics' Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance alongside Antonio Banderas in the Fox 21 / Nat Geo limited series GENIUS: PICASSO (exec. produced by Ron Howard & Brian Grazer). Prior to GENIUS, Alex played a supporting lead role in the Lionsgate Digital feature film THE HONOR LIST and began his career in the second season of HBO's TRUE DETECTIVE. He is often recognized for his recurring role on the critically acclaimed Netflix comedy series GLOW, where he plays the dim-witted but lovable butler, "Florian,” and currently stars alongside Steve Carell and Domhnall Gleeson as Elias in FX's new hit series, THE PATIENT, on Hulu.  Alex shares many audition stories, his process for self-tapes, and his experience working with Antonio Banderas. Insta:  alexjordanrichTwitter:  @alexjordanrich

Actor | Director | WriterMargie talks with her client, Denim Richards, about his role as Colby on the popular Paramount+ series, Yellowstone.  He shares his experience working on a hit show and learning from the likes of Oscar winner, Kevin Costner.  He was in Freeform's Good Trouble and more recently, the films County Line: All In and Chickasaw Rancher.  Denim wrote and directed the short, The Zoo.  Denim started out in musical theatre and is a classically-trained vocalist.  He and Margie discuss her zoom master class, self-tapes and “living the life.”Insta - @denimrichardsTwitter - @DenimRichardsFacebook - ActorDenimrichards

CHARLES F. PORTERActor/Producer/Author/Personal Coach Charles and Margie discuss their longtime friendship and his many achievements from football star at Duke University to actor, model, producer, author, personal coach/trainer and his most important role in becoming a father of two adorable children.  Charles shares his incredible journey as a cancer survivor (or cancer destroyer as he calls it) over the past decade and how it has influenced his life.  Margie reads a poem from Charles' book GET TO KNOW about his mom and her strength and devotion to her son. Margie shares a piece from her book F*ck Your Comfort Zone from the chapter, "Does your armor serve you?"  Charles outs himself on his challenge of being vulnerable.  Twitter:  @neverquitcpInsta: @cfpgramCharlesfporter.com

Actress/Writer DirectorBorn in Jamaica, Kimberly and her family immigrated to Canada when she was 5.  All of a sudden, she was an outsider.  She struggled to find her voice, then claimed it by insisting on being called Kimberly instead of Kim.  She fell in love with the French language, which led her to Paris and a modeling career.  After a couple of years, she decided to f*ck her comfort zone, quit and auditioned for Circle in the Square Theatre School.  Within 3 years, she was a series regular in Canada.  Two years later she moved to LA.  Her credits include Self Made with Octavia Spencer and Tiffany Haddish, The Blacklist and Rookie Blue, and the recent Oprah Winfrey series, The Kings of Napa.  Margie and Kimberly talk about the challenges and victories in f*ing your comfort zone.  Kimberly shares her audition stories, what it's like to create characters in a period piece and meeting Robert DeNiro.  www.kimberlyhuie.com

Chris Boudreaux is well-acquainted with life outside of his comfort zone.  While homeless and living out of his car, Chris garnered a Division 1 full-ride scholarship to the Nevada Wolfpack and won a D1 Conference Championship with Colin Kaepernick as his QB.  He was picked up by the SF 49ers in 2012 after setting a bench press record that year.  Two years later, after “finding himself,” Chris was cast in Men of the Strip as a dancer with Michael Jackson's choreographer, Glenn Douglas Packard on E! Network and became a professional dancer.  After a few years of touring and Chippendales, he moved to LA in 2016 with his partner, Shannyn Lattuca.  In LA, Chris joined Playhouse West and began working as an actor.  His credits include the Lionsgate film on Amazon, BORN A CHAMPION opposite Sean Patrick Flanery, NCIS, SWAT and BASKETS.  His short film just won best comedy at Cannes this year.  He has 2 kids with his partner, Shannyn.  Chris and Margie discuss his struggles and his resilience, the joy of creating, and putting together your package. The podcast ends with some great advice on self-tapes and enjoying the process.  Now go eat an ice cream cone!Insta:  @iamchriboudreaux

Tiffany Haddish is an actress, comedian and producer best known for Girls Trip, Night School and Like a Boss.  She is also the author of the new children's book, Layla, the Last Black Unicorn.  Here Margie and Tiffany talk nails and her audition for Girls Trip, which Margie helped her with.  Tiffany also discusses working with Billy Crystal on Here Today and becoming a Bat Mitzvah.  It's a conversation that uncovers the depth of Margie and Tiffany's long-standing working relationship.  Don't miss Tiffany in After Party on Apple+ with her figurines and The Card Counter on Netflix.  She Ready! Tiffanyhaddish.comInsta:  @tiffanyhaddishTwitter: @TiffanyHaddishShe Ready Productions

David Sweeney and Margie share a lot in common.  David and Margie both come from Long Island.  They are both married [David, to his husband; Margie, to her wife.]  They both have sons.  And David manages Brandon Scott, who happens to be Margie's fabulous student and who has also done this podcast.  David graduated NYU and moved to LA to be an agent trainee at the then powerhouse agency Triad Artists.  Triad was bought by William Morris and David became an assistant in the TV Talent department.  While there, his boss booked an unknown George Clooney on a pilot called ER.  David then worked at More-Medavoy management where another unknown actor David Schwimmer booked a pilot called Friends.  In addition to talent managing, David also focuses on producing and has several films and TV series in active development.  In this podcast, David shares his journey of becoming a manager and answers important questions like, What is a manager?  What does David look for in a client and how can you get in touch with him?  When should you leave your representation?  What does David look for in signing an actor?  David recounts his experiences with some of his actors like Brandon Scott and Amanda Schull and talks with pride about his “20 year club” of actors.  The podcast ends with his advice to all actors, whether brand new or working.Insta: @sweenydavidm

Alice lives between London, Rome and Los Angeles. She graduated from The Paolo Grassi Drama Academy in Milan in 2007 and toured theatrically in Italy and Europe with established directors Alvis Hermanis, Massimo Castri, Romeo Castellucci and Franca Valeri amongts others. Her tv credits include the American-Canadian tv series Ransom3, and as lead in the Italian period drama The Ladies' Paradise, season 1-2-3. She starred in the movie Lessons of Love, which was in the 76th Venice Film Festival in 2019. Other films include Ten Winters by Valerio Mieli, A Star is Born by Lucio Pellegrini, and Them who? by Francesco Miccichè and Fabio Bonifaci. In 2019 she won the Best Actress Award at the Los Angeles Brisk Festival.Alice is also a novelist and a screenwriter with two novels published by Fandango Libri. Her first novel, L'Altra Sete was chosen to represent Italy at the Festival Européen du Premier Roman in Germany.She wrote a tv series, Cleaning Your Shit, among the finalists at the prestigious Solinas Prize in Italy. With Matilda Kime she co-wrote the short movie “The mistake” , which has been nominated as Best International Short Film and won the Silver award at the Hollywood Art and Movie Awards in 2020.  Alice has just finished working on the concept of a new tv series and on her first play. She has a recurring role in the tv series “Il Patriarca” in Italy.  Alice and Margie discuss what it's like being an international actress and auditioning in different countries.Alice Torrianiwww.alicetorriani.comSpotlight: http://www.spotlight.com/2056-6755-8008E-talenta: e-talenta.me/alice-torriani

R.D. Robb is best known for his role as Schwartz in the classic, A Christmas Story.  Other credits include roles in Matilda, The Brady Bunch Movie, and The Goldbergs.  R.D. performed in the Original Broadway cast of Les Miserables.  He wrote and directed Don's Plum starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire and produced the tv series, Siren.  Robb talks candidly with Margie about being a child actor and later exploring different areas of the business such as producing and directing.

Dakota has appeared in such shows as TEEN WOLF, CRIMINAL MINDS, and recently HOW I MET YOUR FATHER.  She is a triple threat - a writer, actor and director. Dakota shares her experience creating, writing, casting and directing her Amazon Prime film, ALL ABOUT SEX and writing the Netflix movie, AFTERMATH. Margie talks with Dakota about growing up with actors as parents and how that affected her childhood. Dakota outs herself in her struggles to find her personal power and gives compelling advice such as, "Instead of walking into the room and saying, ‘Oh, fuck!' change that to ‘Fuck, yeah!'  Find the positive spin.  Dakota gives back with her involvement in Water Drop LA.   Instagram @dakotagorman

Nick Jandl is best known for his role on NASHVILLE and has appeared on over a dozen TV series including CHICAGO FIRE, LUCIFER, NCIS, and CODE BLACK, most recently recurring on the Netflix series ON THE VERGE. Nick wrote, produced, and starred in THE CHASE, which won Best US Short at the 2020 Indy Film Fest. Currently, Nick is executive producing TODO POR AMOR, a dramatic series with CBS Studios and Stampede Ventures, and is in development on multiple TV series. He is a graduate of Tufts University.  Nick and Margie talked about his audition for NASHVILLE, getting out of his comfort zone by producing, exploring ways to create, commitment, and of course, his 2 little babies.

British theatre, film and TV actress, Gina Bramhill, who trained at RADA, talks about her childhood dream of becoming Ally McBeal.  Though she was terribly shy as a child, she loved living in her imagination and found so much of herself in the world of acting.  Margie and Gina talk about her wonderful series, Us, starring Tom Hollander and Saskia Reeves, whose character Gina played as her younger self. They discuss shooting the show and how Tom Hollander once rescued them from their nervousness by running to get a bottle of Champagne!  Gina shares her transformation since she began Margie's master class this past year in both creating a life and using the paper as part of her auditions, even on self tapes.  They chat on the zoom world and the power of bringing creativity to your self tapes.  Gina can currently be seen in Silent Witness, Avenue 5 and is living the life of 60's icon, Carol White, in Chelsea Cowboy.

Elyse Resch  is a nutrition therapist in private practice in Beverly Hills, CA, with almost 40 years of experience, specializing in eating disorders, intuitive eating, and health at every size. She is the co-author of Intuitive Eating, now in its 4th edition, The Intuitive Eating Workbook, and The Intuitive Eating Card Deck - 50 bite sized ways to make peace with food.  She also authored The Intuitive Eating Workbook for Teens and The Intuitive Eating Journal.Friends for nearly 3 decades, Margie and Elyse discuss the actors' struggle with body image. Elyse analyzes the cause of this disorder, and relates her 10 principles for changing the way you look at food.  They talk about Margie's students who struggle with anorexia and share their similarities in relationships, emotions, self-care, listening to your body, and forgiveness. Elyse's philosophy - dieting doesn't work!  Check out this podcast. Everyone needs to listen to it!elyseresch.comFB elyse.reschInsta @elyseresch

Actor | Writer | ProducerRell Battle is a writer, stand-up comedian who was featured in Conan's TEAM COCO House nationwide tour and Will Smith's upcoming This Joka for Roku. As an actor, he was a series regular on CBS' Superior Donuts, guested on ABC's Black-ish, NBC's Good Girls, and recurred on ABC's The Good Doctor. Rell recently sold a half-hour multi-cam comedy to NBC with Bradley Gardner at Orion and Hazy Mills. Look for Rell as a series regular in the comedy KILLING IT opposite Craig Robinson for Peacock.  Rell and Margie talked stand-up comedy and the difficulty of making it a conversation, the challenge of silence, his critical parent and fearful child with Judd Hirsch.  They discussed the difference between sitcom and single camera comedy, with a thorough analysis by Rell of the technical aspects of sitcom and the weekly schedule.  Lastly, his new series, where he worked with Margie to uncover the core beneath the comedy and he booked it!Insta - @rellbattleTwitter - @rellbattleFB - Rell.battle

Jai and Margie had an opportunity to catch up on their lives. Jai is an English actor raised in Hong Kong. Over the past 15 years he has split his time between LA and Asia, working in Theatre, Film, TV, Animation, VO, and Stunts. He has performed alongside mainstays of Hong Kong cinema such as Donnie Yen, Andy Lau and Jackie Chan as well as acclaimed directors Rennie Harlin, Herman Yau and Wong Jing. He is soon to appear on stage in productions of both The Gruffalo and Rabbit Hole as well as the TV series' Flying Tigers 3 and Forensic Psychologist. Jai shares his process of auditioning and working in Hong Kong and gives some wonderful advice on having a productive, happy life as an actor.www.Jai.day.netwww.imdb.me/jaiinstagram: @jai

Series regular actor and humanitarian, Marque Richardson, shares his beginnings as a child actor and stories about his character Reggie on “Dear White People” from the film to the current tv series.  Margie and Marque discuss racism and what we can do to be better.  He also gives great tips on the zoom world of auditioning.  Marquee's  credits include series regular on “True Blood,” “The Middle,” “Genius” and his currently, “Dear White People.”  Marque has been stalking Margie for years, ever since her book, “How to get the Part…Without Falling Apart,” came out 20 years ago!Marqueeontv.comhttps://www.facebook.com/Marque-Richardson-37568616652/https://twitter.com/SilkyRiiichhttps://www.instagram.com/silkyriiich/

Margie talks with Cameroon-born singer and songwriter, Andy Allo, an artist who is truly paving her own path with a sound and vibe that is uniquely her own. They discuss being a “professional human” and the importance of living your life fully.  Andy currently stars as the female lead, “Nora,” in Amazon Prime's critically acclaimed series, “Upload,” and has written and directed her first short film, ALICE.  She released her first album, UnFresh, in 2009 and two years later, joined Prince's New Power Generation as a singer/guitarist and worked with Prince on her album, Superconductor. Andy launched her Foundations of Focus Workshop last year coaching people to radically change their lives and realize their dreams.Link to Foundations of Focus Workshophttps://www.andyallo.com/workshopInsta @andyalloinfo@alloevolution.com

Massachusetts native, Georgetown University graduate, and former consultant, Johnno Wilson has been acting and doing comedy in LA for 10 years.  He has studied with Margie Haber and was a member of The Groundlings Sunday Company.  He has had two network tests for Saturday Night Live on the famed Studio 8H stage, had a recurring role on Disney's “Raven's Home,” wrote/created/starred in a sketch comedy series on Funny or Die and Amazon Prime, has been on national commercial campaigns, boasts a robust voiceover career and can be seen on the upcoming season of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”  He also has over 2 million likes for his amazing 30 sec impressions of Mark Wahlberg, Ryan Reynolds and Tom Hanks on TikTok.

Margie chats with one of her favorites, character actor, Tim Bagley, with whom she has worked over a decade.  They discuss how Tim got into comedy, his love for “creating" and the empowering notion of “Why not me?"  Tim has appeared in numerous films and tv shows.  He had recurring roles on the TV series Hope & Gloria, Strip Mall, Will & Grace, According to Jim, The King of Queens, Monk, Help Me Help You, 10 Items or Less $h*! My Dad Says, and portrayed Richard Pratt on the Showtime series, Web Therapy.  Previously, Bagley had a recurring role as Principal Toby Pearson on the American sitcom Teachers, and currently plays Peter on Grace and Frankie.

A classically trained actor based in Los Angeles, Lisa Carswell recent credits include a recurring co-star on an upcoming Freeform series.  She is a transplant from the Pacific Northwest where she appeared on Grimm, ZNation and several independent films.  Lisa has appeared on many Seattle stages over the years including the Seattle Rep and ACT.  During all this she somehow found the time to raise her twin sons with her husband of 31 years, Bill.Instagram @lisa.carswell.62Jack Perry is an actor and musician based in Los Angeles. You can see him on To Tell the Truth, 30 Rock, Ugly Betty, Team Umizoomi, and many, many commercials. Jack is also very tall, has a baby face, and salt and pepper hair, which is every casting directors dream. Instagram @jackjohnperry

Actor James Trevena from New Zealand chased dreams of playing professional Ice Hockey since he was a kid.  Once he returned home from the sport in 2010, he decided to try acting.  James is known for NZ shows “The Blue Rose” and “The Shannara Chronicles.”  Since 2016, he has worked in the US on films such as “Charlie Says” opposite Matt Smith and now stars alongside Paula Patton in the series, “Sacrifice.”  

Margie is fortunate to welcome German Fashion Model, Actress and Humanitarian, Toni Garrn to her podcast.  Toni is an example of someone who continuously reinvents herself - from her modeling career at a very early age for Calvin Klein, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Victoria Secret to her burgeoning acting career. Toni shares her secret of success as always saying, “YES to life.”  She talks about her passion to help women and children in Africa and creating the Toni Garrn Foundation. Toni and Margie discuss her film career, starting off with the role of Reeva in the 2017 film, "Oscar Pistorius - Blade Runner Killer" and how determined she was to do the project despite all of the obstacles.  They discuss other films such as "Head Full of Honey" with Nick Nolte, Eric Roberts, Matt Dillon and her audition for “Spiderman."  Toni encourages listeners to walk through those open doors.

Actor and former football player, James Roch talks to Margie about his football years at Stanford University and playing for the Oakland Raiders and his transition into becoming an actor.  He booked the TV show, “The Night Shift” as a series regular during his first audition.  James shares how learning the Haber Phrasing helped him book both an HBO pilot, “Painkiller” and the feature film, “Grey Elephant.”  For those who love the Madden franchise, you won’t want to miss James talk about the game and working with the awesome motion capture technology.  

Margie chats with beautiful Rochelle Aytes, who started out as a dancer and model, about her role as April in “Mistresses" with Alyssa Milano, Yunjin Kim, and Jes Macallan.  She has had series regular/reoccuring roles in "Hawaii Five-O," "The Purge," “ S.W.A.T,”  “The Forgotten," "Detroit 1-8-7,”  "Desperate Housewives,” "The Lost Boys," "Criminal Minds,” and "Designated Survivor.” Her film roles include Tyler Perry's "Madea's Family Reunion,” “ White Chicks,” produced by the Wayan Brothers and she recently starred in "A Christmas tree grows in Colorado.”IG @rochelleaytes4realTwitter @rochelleaytes FB @rochelleaytes  

Be a fly on the wall as you listen to Margie talk with director, Elissa Down about her personal story, which was the impetus for writing/directing the award winning film, "The Black Balloon" with Toni Collette, Luke Ford and Rhys Wakefield.  Elissa is an "actor’s director" who helps actors find their way through creating characters. Here she shares Luke Ford’s audition and how he created the character, Charlie, a mute teen with severe autism and ADHD, that was based on her brother. Elissa discusses what she looks for in an actor and the need for messiness. Margie and Elissa agree on the importance of silence and behavior, ending with tips on self-tapes, zoom and in-person auditions.  

Seasoned film and television actor, Richard Gunn, shares the journey of his successful career with Margie and gives advice both professionally and personally. Richard is known for James Cameron’s 'Dark Angel’ for which he won a People’s Choice Award for creating the life of “Sketchy” from 2001-2003, his iconic hero Chief of Police, John Sanders in 'Granite Flats' with Christopher Lloyd, Aitor Quantic in Netflix's 'Hemlock Grove' as well as starring with legendary actors James Caan and Paul Sorvino in the Lionsgate release 'For the Love of Money' and, most recently, in the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize winning film, 'Clemency', with the talented Alfie Woodard.’Insta: Richard.gunnTwitter: @RichardGunninc

Margie reconnects with her beloved former teacher and Broadway theatre actor, Darryl Semira, in a riveting conversation about theatre vs film and tv acting, finding your personal power and discovering your passion. Darryl shares his theatre experiences as an actor, director and teacher. He reveals his personal journey of moving to Buffalo with his husband and returning to school after 20 years for his master’s degree.Broadway: Mamma Mia!, Bombay Dreams, Spamalot 1st National TourTV: Free Agents (NBC), The Protector (Lifetime)Social media:Twitter: @dizsizFacebook: @DarrylSemiraActingCoachWebsite: www.darrylsemira.com

Spanish child actress, Ivana Baquero, shares her experience as a 12-year old starring in Guillermo Del Toro's cinematic masterpiece, “Pan's Labyrinth,” for which she won critical acclaim and the Goya Award for Best New Actress. Ivana talks about her ‘master class’ with Del Toro who guided her into ‘living the life’ rather than substituting for an emotional result, as well as the technical aspects of dealing with green screen. Margie and Ivana explore the difference between Spanish and American acting styles and Ivana’s journey into adulthood as a series regular on Netflix, “The Shannara Chronicles,” where she lived the life of a bad ass fighter. This podcast gives parents an opportunity to learn from a veteran. Insta: @ivanabaqueroTwitter: @ivanabaquero_

New Zealand actresses, Amy Waller and Brooke Williams share their beginnings from attending the same class at Toi Whakaari drama school in Wellington, NZ to theater, tv and film to their courageous moves to Los Angeles and their journeys, both professionally and personally. They’ve been best friends ever since! Amy and Brooke discuss the New Zealand culture and how it has influenced their behavior as well as the personal power they have found from being part of Margie’s zoom community. Amy Waller, Actress/Writer/ProducerRecent credits include 911 on Fox, the movie, “The Wretched,” the TBS comedy The Detour, and a guest role in Runaways (ABC/Marvel). A career highlight was creating her own One Woman Show called “Gloria” which she was commissioned to write and tour around the north island of NZ and the Hollywood Fringe Festival.Bohemia Group Management (US) Aqua Talent (US)Auckland Actors (NZ)IG @amylouisewallerImdb.me/amywaller Brooke Williams, ActressAmerican TV shows - 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D' (ABC), '12 Monkeys' (Syfy) 'The Shannara Chronicles' (MTV), 'Spartacus-Blood and Sand.', 'Legend of the Seeker.' NZ shows - 'My Story', 'This is not my Life', 'Go Girls', 'The Almighty Johnsons', 'Outrageous Fortune', 'Shortland Street.' Films: 'Slow West', 'Predicament'IG @brookesvwilliams

New Zealand actress/teacher Tania Nolan, a series regular on Australian soap opera, "Home and Away," talks to Margie about her film, “And Then there was Eve,” and the process of creating her life and diving into the transgender world of her character’s husband. They discuss using imagination and sensory work, the importance of being present and relying on relationship. Tania shares her experience teaching at Margie Haber Studio and how she has learned to let go of her crippling fear, replacing it with the empowerment of living in the life. They discuss Margie's “Do the Do’s” in creating a character’s life. To be a healthy actor, one must dive into these complicated characters that may be disturbing, but then shift the lens, let it all go and have some ice cream!

Melanie shares how she first met Margie (by stalking her!) and the value of acting class. She describes her experience on “The Wire,” where she lived a life as a lesbian cop, her acting education, courtesy of Brian Cranston, and her deep commitment to a ‘glass half full’ mindset from decades of being in this business as well as her joy of life.Melanie is known for 5 years on “The Wire,” “Rookie Blue,” “Anne with an E,” “Little Fires Everywhere” and her most recent recurring role on “Your Honor” starring Brian Cranston. Melanie is known for 5 years on “The Wire,” “Rookie Blue,” “Anne with an E,” “Little Fires Everywhere” and her most recent recurring role on “Your Honor” starring Brian Cranston.