Join Sesame Street and Disney Muppet Performer Matt Vogel (Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, The Count, and others) as he talks in-depth with people in the Muppet Universe - from Sesame Street and Disney Muppet Performers, to writers, wranglers, and more! Get tips and tricks-of-the-trade on how to improve your puppetry, too! All this, plus some special surprises on Below The Frame with Matt Vogel.
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The Below The Frame with Matt Vogel podcast is an absolute treat for fans of the Muppets, Sesame Street, and puppeteering in general. From its early days as Facebook Live videos to its current format as a podcast, this show has provided endless entertainment and insight into the world of puppetry. One of the best aspects of this podcast is the opportunity to spend more time with the puppeteers and hear their personal stories in a more intimate setting. The interviews with guests like Julianne Buescher and Eric Jacobson, who have unique paths to puppetry or identify as introverts, are particularly fascinating and relatable. Additionally, it would be exciting to see future guests include Stacey Gordon (Julia) and performers from international productions of Sesame Street.
The personal stories shared on this podcast are truly captivating and offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of television's most iconic shows. The unsung stars of the Muppets and Sesame Street, the people involved with the puppets, are finally given a platform to share their experiences. Even if you're not a puppeteer yourself, these stories alone are worth listening to. Furthermore, host Matt Vogel does an excellent job guiding the interviews and bringing out the best in his guests. Each episode is engaging and leaves listeners wanting more.
While there aren't many negative aspects to this podcast, one critique could be that it would benefit from incorporating more visual elements like video clips or behind-the-scenes photos. Given that puppetry is a visual art form, these additions could enhance the listener's experience even further by providing a visual reference point for certain discussions or performances mentioned during interviews.
In conclusion, The Below The Frame with Matt Vogel podcast is an absolute must-listen for any fan of the Muppets, Sesame Street, puppeteering, or just the arts in general. Not only does it offer unprecedented access to the people behind the puppets, but it also provides an enjoyable and informative experience for anyone with some extra time on their hands. Matt Vogel has done an incredible job hosting this podcast, and each episode offers incredible insight into the world of puppetry. Whether you're a die-hard Muppet fan or simply enjoy hearing from passionate and creative individuals, this podcast is sure to bring joy and entertainment.
On the Season 3 Premiere of Below the Frame, we're talking with Muppet Performer Bradley Freeman, Jr. and musician Lucas Ross about Kermit the Frog's recent appearance at Willie Nelson's Luck Reunion music festival near Austin, TX. This two-part episode begins with how Kermit was invited to the Luck Ranch up to a very special rehearsal! Want to hear all about it? Then it's time to go...Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On the Season Finale of Below the Frame, I'm talking to legendary Muppet Performer Dave Goelz! We talk about how he snuck into CBS as a teenager, his job at HP, and well, Jim Henson and The Muppets, of course! We'll also hear a story and song by Jerry Nelson! So, what are you waiting for? It's time to go...Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm sitting in the hot seat and answering questions from my friend, Sesame Street Muppet Performer Stephanie D'Abruzzo! That's right, it's my turn to talk about where I grew up, how I became part of Sesame Street and the Muppets, and lots of other stuff you probably don't know! We'll also be learning about “Doubling” in Television Puppetry, and will ask Joey Mazzarino a question about NOT puppets! All of that on this week's Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking to my friend, John Tartaglia! We'll talk about how he got to Sesame Street, his many different projects on television and stage, and - of course, the brand new Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock series now streaming on AppleTV+! Plus, John Kennedy shares a memory and reads a story written by Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson, and we'll hear another Jerry Song as well! So, join us for this week's brand new Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking once again to the Sesame Street Mentees! We'll meet the two newest members of our mentorship program and talk about what everyone has been up to since our last chat, as well as discuss POC issues that are present even in the world of television puppetry. We'll also drop in to the Injury Corner and find out how Muppet Performer Mike Quinn was injured, and will ask Fran Brill another puppeteer a question about NOT puppets! All on this week's Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this encore episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Tyler Bunch (Louie) about growing up all over the country, performing puppets for The Disney Crew, monitor nights, and creating memorable characters. We learn about the phrase "Blue Skies" and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer Pam Arciero (Grundgetta) a question about NOT puppets.
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking with Jan Nelson, wife of the late Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson (The Count, Floyd Pepper, Robin, etc.)! We'll hear how they met, what Jerry thought of Jim Henson (hint: he loved him), and so much more! Plus, we've got another Jerry Story read by Fran Brill and a Jerry Song (or two). Join us for a brand new Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking to Leigh Slaughter and Michael Steinbach from The Muppets Studio! We'll hear how they landed with The Muppets, how important fan involvement is, and where they see Kermit and the gang heading in the future! We'll also be visiting the Injury Corner to hear how Muppet Performer David Rudman was injured on the job, and we'll ask Muppet Performer Alice Dinnean a question about NOT puppets! It's on this week's brand new Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking to Muppet Performer Bruce Lanoil! We'll talk about family, how Bruce became a puppeteer, and the many, many projects he's done over the years. We'll also be paying yet another visit to the INJURY CORNER and hear how Sesame Street Muppet Performer Frankie Cordero was injured, and we'll ask Muppet Performer Noel MacNeal a question about NOT puppets! It's all on this week's Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, I'm talking to my friend, David Rudman. David performs Cookie Monster and Baby Bear on Sesame Street and Scooter, Janice, Beaker and more for the Disney Muppets and I am so happy to have this opportunity to talk all about his life. We also have a memory of Jerry Nelson from Leslie Carrara-Rudolph (who reads a Jerry Story) and we hear a song I think was written by Jerry...but I'm not sure. It's all Below The Frame!
On this encore episode of Below the Frame, Matt chats with Sesame Street wranglers Michelle Hickey and Lara MacLean about their jobs as wranglers on Sesame Street, a current list of live hand Sesame Street characters, and what one item they cannot do their job without. We also learn about how important "monitors" are in the world of television puppetry (hint: very important).
On this encore episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, we hear from Muppet Performer Eric Jacobson (Miss Piggy, Grover, Fozzie, Bert, Animal) about what made him realize that he needed to work for The Muppets, what he learned from Frank Oz, and of course, we'll talk about the many characters he plays. We also learn about "Good Eye Focus" and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer Ryan Dillon (Elmo) a question about NOT puppets!
On this episode of Below The Frame Matt is talking to Rollie Krewson! She builds puppets! Famous puppets! And lots of the iconic Sesame Street characters were built by Rollie! Plus, she reveals the secret of The Muppet Stitch! We'll also pay another visit to the Injury Corner and ask a puppeteer a question about NOT Puppets! It's Below The Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt's talking to Muppet Performer and Star Wars cast member Mike Quinn! They'll be talking Muppet Show, Star Wars, puppetry (of course) and a lot more! Plus, we'll be learning about “Headbands” in puppetry and asking a Puppeteer about NOT puppets!It's time to go...Below the Frame!
On this week's episode of Below The Frame, I'm talking with the remarkable Debi Spinney! We learn all about Debi and find out a little of what see experienced alongside her dear Sesame Street Muppet Performer husband, Caroll Spinney - who, of course, played Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch! We'll also hear a very special Jerry Story from Muppet Performer Dave Goelz, plus and a song, too (not from Dave, but from Jerry).
On this episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, we talk to Sesame Street Muppet Performer Frankie Cordero (Rudy). We talk about growing up near Chicago, his mentors (including David Rudman) and a lot more! We also ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer Warrick Brownlow-Pike (Gonger) a question about NOT puppets. This episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel is brought to you by "Awkward Positions"!
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame Matt gets to talk with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Fran Brill! We talk about her life as an actress, her first meeting with Jim Henson, and, of course, Prairie Dawn! Plus, Sesame StreetMuppet Performer Martin P. Robinson shares a memory and reads a "Jerry Story" and we listen to another song by the great Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson.
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy (Mumford). They talk about John's interactions with Jim Henson, his puppetry books, and the fact that he's always working. We also learn a bit about the helpfulness of “Double-Stick Tape” and Muppet Performer Bill Barretta answers a question about NOT puppets.John's website: http://puppetkit.comJohnny K Band: https://www.johnnykband.comBean Ball on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bean-ball/id1522378984
On this episode of Below The Frame, Matt Vogel talks with Paul Rudolph - he's the guy that helps the Sesame Street Muppet Performers sound as good as we do, and he is also married to one of the Sesame Street Muppet Performers. Hint: It's Leslie Carrara-Rudolph! We'll also hear a Jerry Story and song -- So, listen to this brand new episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below The Frame we are talking with Muppet Performer and author, Noel MacNeal! And, yes, we'll talk about Bear in the Big Blue House! Plus, we'll be dropping by the "Injury Corner" and asking a puppeteer about NOT puppets! It's that time again -- it's time to go Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below The Frame, Matt chats with the multi-talented Alice Dinnean! She's a puppeteer, she's a writer, she's a puppet captain, she's an interior decorator! She does it all. Plus, we'll be talking about “Cramped Spaces” and asking a puppeteer about NOT pupppets! All of that on this episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel!
On this episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, we are talking with designer, writer, director, Kirk Thatcher! Kirk talks about his childhood, Leonard Nimoy and Star Trek, Jim Henson and The Muppets, and so much more! Plus, we'll be debuting a new segment on the show today and asking a Puppeteer about NOT Puppets.
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with one of his best friends, Muppet Performer Joey Mazzarino (Murray Monster) about his time at Sesame Street, his writing speed, and the band they were in together, The Mighty Weaklings. We'll also ask John Kennedy something about NOT puppets! This week's episode of Below the Frame is brought to you by Tall Shoes.
On the Season 2 Premiere of Below the Frame, Matt talks with legendary Muppet Performer Louise Gold (Annie Sue) about how she got from acting on stage to puppeteering on The Muppet Show, the recent Netflix show Dark Crystal: Age of the Resistance, and more! Plus, Bill Barretta shares a Jerry Story and we hear Jerry sing "I'll See You in My Dreams".
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Carmen Osbahr (Rosita, Ovejita) about her journey from Mexico all the way to Sesame Street. Matt also talks about friend and mentor, the late Jerry Nelson (The Count, Floyd Pepper, Robin, Herry Monster), Stephanie D'Abruzzo (Prairie Dawn) shares her memory of Jerry, and reads one of his stories. Matt also shares a song of Jerry's that you've never heard.
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with Muppet Performer Julianne Buescher (Yolanda, Beverly Plume). They talk about her life as an introvert, moving to Hollywood and being an improvisor at Second City, and working on shows like Dinosaurs, Sesame Street, The Muppets and so much more! We'll also learn about "Spatial Awareness" in puppetry and ask Jennifer Barnhart a question about NOT puppets!
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame with Matt Vogel, we talk to the members of the Sesame Street Mentorship Program (Tau Bennett, Austin Costello, Chris Thomas Hayes, Haley Jenkins, Kathy Kim, Spencer Lott, Megan Piphus). Get to know the Mentees, what they've learned being a part of the program, and what they think you need to know to be a Sesame Street Muppet Performer. We also learn about improvisation in puppetry and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy (Mumford) a question about NOT puppets.
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with Emmy Award winning Sesame Street Muppet Performer Ryan Dillon (Elmo, Don Music, Lefty the Salesman) about puppetry at an early age, going away from Sesame Street, and the famous red monster he plays. Plus, Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy shares his memory and reads a story written by Jerry Nelson. We also hear a great version of Jerry's song, "Alligators".Ryan Dillon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/boomryandillonRyan Dillon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryandillonmuppeteerThe Idiot Club on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillongaleidiots
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Leslie Carrara-Rudolph (Abby Cadabby). They talk about Carol Burnett, Muppets Tonight, and how resilience is part of her life's journey. Carmen Osbahr (Rosita) shares her memory of late Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson and reads one of his stories. Plus, we hear Mr. Nelson performing one of his very own Jerry Stories.Leslie's Website: https://www.lesliecarrara-rudolph.com
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt chats—and laughs—with Muppet Performer Bill Barretta (Pepe the King Prawn, Bobo, Swedish Chef, Rowlf, Dr. Teeth) discussing working at Sesame Place, meeting Jim Henson, and his experience on Dinosaurs. We also talk about the importance of “good lip sync” in puppetry with Peter Linz (Ernie, Walter) and ask Carmen Osbahr (Rosita) a question about NOT puppets.Barretta Brothers Website: https://www.thebarrettabrothers.comTwitter: twitter.com/billbarretta
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt gets to talk with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Fran Brill! We talk about her life as an actress, her first meeting with Jim Henson, and, of course, Prairie Dawn! Plus, Sesame StreetMuppet Performer Martin P. Robinson shares a memory and reads a "Jerry Story" and we listen to another song by the great Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson.
On this repeat episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street and Disney Muppet Performer, Peter Linz (Walter, Ernie, Herry Monster, Link Hogthrob, Joe the Legal Weasel) and learns about his dedication to learning monitor technique, having an audition for Sesame Street in New York while needing to be at rehearsals in Atlanta! We also learn about "live hands" in puppetry (thanks to a special google-eyed guest), and Matt asks Fran Brill (Prairie Dawn) a question about NOT puppets!Peter's Website: http://www.peterlinz.com/Contact.htmlTwitter: https://twitter.com/peterlinzmuppetInstagram: instagram.com/peter.linzBeyond The Sock: https://beyondthesock.com
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Mar. 22, 2017 and the Season 1 Finale of Below The Frame called “Finally a Finale”. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Everyone’s exhausted during the show.
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Feb. 9, 2017 and a “Snow Day” episode of Below The Frame. Swag, swag, and more swag!
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Feb. 2, 2017 and a special episode of Below The Frame featuring Caroll & Debi Spinney titled “Two Spinneys No Waiting”!
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Jan. 19, 2017 and a special “Office Spaced” episode of Below The Frame from the offices of Sesame Workshop in New York City. Louis Mitchell draws Cookie Monster, we talk to the Head Writer, see archival treats, and more!
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Dec. 8, 2016 and a very holiday episode of Below The Frame called "[Insert Your Holiday] Spirit". Prairie at the parade, lip synching with Peter Linz, a Christmas medley, and more!
On this week’s Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Nov. 17, 2016 and the very first official live episode of Below The Frame titled “Biondo Belief!”. Two-Headed Monster, a question about NOT puppets, Frank Biondo and more!
On this surprise bonus episode of Below The Frame, join Matt Vogel along with ToughPigs.com's Joe Hennes, as they talk all about Kermit the Frog's big reveal on the Season Five Premiere of Masked Singer. You can listen to the episode here on Below The Frame OR watch the interview on ToughPigs.com.
On our first Below The Frame REWIND, we go back to Nov. 3, 2016 and and episode of Below The Frame we’re calling: “Pilot”. Wandering around the hall, goofing off in the green room, Dum-Dums and more!
On the Season One finale of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, we hear from Muppet Performer Eric Jacobson (Miss Piggy, Grover, Fozzie, Bert, Animal) about what made him realize that he needed to work for The Muppets, what he learned from Frank Oz, and of course, we’ll talk about the many characters he plays. We also learn about "Good Eye Focus" and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer Ryan Dillon (Elmo) a question about NOT puppets!
On this episode of Below The Frame with Matt Vogel, we talk to the members of the Sesame Street Mentorship Program (Tau Bennett, Austin Costello, Chris Thomas Hayes, Haley Jenkins, Kathy Kim, Spencer Lott, Megan Piphus). Get to know the Mentees, what they've learned being a part of the program, and what they think you need to know to be a Sesame Street Muppet Performer. We also learn about improvisation in puppetry and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy (Mumford) a question about NOT puppets.
On this episode of Below The Frame, Matt chats with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Warrick Brownlow-Pike (Gonger). We talk about his drive to be a puppeteer from a very early age, doing a daily live television show for kids, finally making to Sesame Street, and Netflix's The Dark Crystal: The Age of Resistance. We also hear a memory of a friend of Jerry Nelson's and get another Jerry Story and song.Warrick's Website: https://brownlow-pike.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/warrickbp
On this episode of Below the Frame Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Leslie Carrara-Rudolph (Abby Cadabby). They talk about Carol Burnett, Muppets Tonight, and how resilience is part of her life's journey. Carmen Osbahr (Rosita) shares her memory of late Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson and reads one of his stories. Plus, we hear Mr. Nelson performing one of his very own Jerry Stories.Leslie's Website: https://www.lesliecarrara-rudolph.com
On this episode of Below the Frame Matt talks with Muppet Performer Julianne Buescher (Yolanda, Beverly Plume). They talk about her life as an introvert, moving to Hollywood and being an improvisor at Second City, and working on shows like Dinosaurs, Sesame Street, The Muppets and so much more! We’ll also learn about "Spatial Awareness" in puppetry and ask Jennifer Barnhart a question about NOT puppets!
On this week’s episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy (Mumford). They talk about John’s interactions with Jim Henson, his puppetry books, and the fact that he’s always working. We also learn a bit about the helpfulness of “Double-Stick Tape” and Muppet Performer Bill Barretta answers a question about NOT puppets.John's website: http://puppetkit.comJohnny K Band: https://www.johnnykband.comBean Ball on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bean-ball/id1522378984
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with Emmy Award winning Sesame Street Muppet Performer Ryan Dillon (Elmo, Don Music, Lefty the Salesman) about puppetry at an early age, going away from Sesame Street, and the famous red monster he plays. Plus, Sesame Street Muppet Performer John Kennedy shares his memory and reads a story written by Jerry Nelson. We also hear a great version of Jerry's song, "Alligators".Ryan Dillon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/boomryandillonRyan Dillon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryandillonmuppeteerThe Idiot Club on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillongaleidiots
On this episode of Below the Frame Matt gets to talk with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Fran Brill! We talk about her life as an actress, her first meeting with Jim Henson, and, of course, Prairie Dawn! Plus, Sesame Street Muppet Performer Martin P. Robinson shares a memory and reads a "Jerry Story" and we listen to another song by the great Muppet Performer Jerry Nelson.
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt sits down with Sesame Street Muppet Performer Tyler Bunch (Louie) about growing up all over the country, performing puppets for The Disney Crew, monitor nights, and creating memorable characters. We learn about the phrase "Blue Skies" and ask Sesame Street Muppet Performer Pam Arciero (Grundgetta) a question about NOT puppets.
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt talks with Muppet writer Jim Lewis about writing for Miss Piggy, collaboration with the Muppet Performers, and his family’s funeral home business. Matt introduces Muppet Performer David Rudman who talks about Jerry Nelson and reads a "Jerry Story". We also hear a song recorded live at a jam up at Jerry’s house on Cape Cod.
On this episode of Below the Frame, Matt chats—and laughs—with Muppet Performer Bill Barretta (Pepe the King Prawn, Bobo, Swedish Chef, Rowlf, Dr. Teeth) discussing working at Sesame Place, meeting Jim Henson, and his experience on Dinosaurs. We also talk about the importance of “good lip sync” in puppetry with Peter Linz (Ernie, Walter) and ask Carmen Osbahr (Rosita) a question about NOT puppets.Barretta Brothers Website: https://www.thebarrettabrothers.comTwitter: twitter.com/billbarretta
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