Cherin Feelings

Hey everyone and thanks for tuning in. If you've listened in the past, welcome back for a brand new episode! Today, we have a friend of mine from childhood, someone I haven't spoken to in many years. He is a music talent manager and special events coordinator, and just about the most optimistic guy you'll ever meet. Joining me as he walks through Los Angeles (yes, it can be done!), welcome everyone, Mr. Tim James. Tim shares his story from working as a bus boy to building his own business in the music world - finding a passion in not only discovering new talent, but tirelessly offering his time and attention to anyone in need. Tim's powerful optimism and love of all people is summed up simply when he says "I want everybody to win." In the conversation, Tim reveals his inner most demons, bringing to light a question of how long we can be in a downward spiral before we face the truth. Ultimately, Tim is a work in progress, like all of us. But, he's also an example of the resiliency of the human spirit. And a reminder that no matter how hard we try to change, it can't happen all at once - only one choice at a time, one day at a time, one minute at a time if that's what it takes. And maybe it feels like whatever stands in your way is immovable, like you can't beat it. But you can replace it. (Recorded on 5/14/21)

Today I have two very special guests joining me! They are the creators of their own podcast called the Glass Half Fools, please welcome Mr. Joe Burton and Mr. Keaton Schmidt! The three of us met a few years ago under not-so-ideal professional circumstances and unfortunately, we didn't get to know each other that well. But when I found out they started their own podcasting adventure, I knew I had to listen, and instantly I became a fan. And quite magically, it brought us so much closer together. In this episode, we attempt to understand the dueling nature of one's ego and one's self-care. Joe and Keaton walk me through the origin of their podcast idea, how conversing about positivity has ultimately held them accountable to find it themselves. We discover so much about how far we've come as dreamers and doers and although we agree, not everything happens for a reason, good things certainly do. And people that display positivity are attracting those good things by intention, not by luck. Enjoy!

I am eager to introduce a friend of mine from Disney Cruise Line; he is an actor, musician, story teller, world traveler, spiritual guide, the music man and dancing machine himself: Mr. Carranzo Meeking. We discuss how the hustle and bustle of life can often distract us from looking inward, a practice that Carranzo has seemingly perfected. He imparts wisdom at every turn in the conversation, reminding me that anything that is learned can be unlearned. He has built a life thinking outside of the box and continues to embody all that is most authentic to who he is, in everything he does. I realize by talking with him that these answers he has “figured out” are a manifestation of his tranquility, empathy, and his love of nature and humanity. And in a world plagued by chaos and misunderstanding, he proves to be a calm in the storm. Enjoy!

Today’s very special guest is a friend of mine for almost 10 years! His work and research surrounding men’s health was one of the inspirations for beginning this podcast, so please welcome Mr. Cody Ragonese. We begin our long-standing catch up by reflecting on all we have learned about ourselves during this pandemic, and how to efficiently use the coveted “me” time. Cody shares his journey from college to the Peace Corps, to grad school and the professional world; sifting the lens on masculinity and gender norms and ultimately creating a safe and productive environment in which we all can work together. I hope this episode proves that true friendship and connection takes time and a willingness to be vulnerable. And although we’ve known each other for so long, every time we talk it’s like the first day we met. We realize we’ve both built a life of breaking boundaries as we arrive closer to answering an age old question: what makes a man? Enjoy!

I recently reached out to a former acting teacher of mine; a brilliant teacher, actor, creative being, activist, mentor, writer…the list goes on and on. They truly embody the magic of what it means to be human. From the bottom of my heart to the farthest reaches of the known universe, please welcome Reg Flowers. Reg, in my opinion, has made a life and career out of getting people to look inward, and helping them carefully pull out whatever they find. They are truly a sophisticated child at work, and in this episode, we uncover many truths about the super power of humility, building community, the perception of wealth, and the reward of living joyfully in each present moment. As I attempt to summarize what you can expect in this episode, I must leave you with this: do yourself a favor and listen closely to every word spoken today. We are so capable of great things. I am honored to share this remarkable human being with you all as we experience the infinity of living out loud. Enjoy! Books mentioned in the episode: The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

Today’s episode is extra special because I got to chat with a man I’ve known and had the pleasure of watching on stage for several years – I have always looked up to him as an artist and now as the beautiful human he is – please welcome Mr. Jelani Remy! Jelani is a Broadway superstar and truly a legend in the making. He does it all and is possibly the biggest, brightest ball of sunshine you will ever meet. We talk all about using our gifts, or what he calls “sorcery” for good, and how tunnel vision can cause us to block our blessings. He shares with me moments of struggle, heart break, and defeat, but reminds me o f our own unique journey – one filled with endless possibility, where opportunity meets preparation, and every day is lived full out. Jelani effortlessly welcomes me to a time before career and questioning and doubt; a time when our imagination was our guide and the joy of life was in playing pretend. Enjoy!

Please welcome Mr. Jake Dylan! Jake is a dancer, singer, actor, performer, comedian, and teacher who as accrued quite a following from his hilarious routines as the generic Monmouth County mom. Jake and I chat about our brief time spent together at Montclair State University, his decision to transfer schools, and how his life continued to change in ways he never could have expected. We talk a lot about theatre programs and the hierarchy of value they instill in young people, as we expand the conversation to accepting our individuality. We are all worthy to speak our mind and share our talents. Jake takes me through his successes, his doubts, his diagnoses, all the while exemplifying the reward of trusting yourself. He reminds me never to hide from the parts that make us unique, even if we’re embarrassed by them at first, for they make us who we are. And the only way to make one great big life is out of all the funny little pieces. Enjoy!

I am so pleased to introduce this one of a kind artist, master photographer and man of service, my friend, Mr. James Jin! We begin our conversation by reflecting on the cloudy, rainy day; how to push through and ultimately focus on what he describes as the continuous cycle of generosity. James is incredibly inspiring. He has developed “The Process”, a photography session acting as a safe environment for artists, especially dancers, to find the courage within themselves to embrace their insecurities and reveal who they truly are. James shares his ideas on the motivation of fear, the power of consistency, and his passion for what is real. He hopes people can see the value they have within themselves as they are right now. Graciously sharing his experience of the ongoing horrific acts against the Asian community, James reveals, as he often encourages his clients to, the strength within. Enjoy!

Today we have a special treat, a sort of peak behind the curtain of my past life. Welcome my childhood friend, Mr. Brendan Stackhouse! Brendan is an educator and theatre director and producer, and as we discover, may actually be my oldest friend. We laugh about the very humbling growth from wishful adolescence to responsible adulthood. We reminisce on how fearless we were, how creative we could be when there was no doubt and no anxiety. As we’ve grown older, we’ve tried to keep our sense of play and certainly draw on some hilarious memories to do so. Brendan shares his thoughts on being an English teacher, noticing how every kid has an iPhone and TikTok and is smarter than we ever were. But all that access to the world is still paired with a childish naiveté, and we still need to learn how to be human beings and connect with one another and understand behavior. Brendan reminds me that although we were absolute fools when we were younger, we’ve grown to appreciate that all great things take time. And as we abandon the miscalculated pressure of fear, we’re kids again. And we realize, it’s gonna happen for you when it’s gonna happen for you. Just wait for your pitch. Enjoy! Books mentioned at the end of the episode: New Kid by Jerry Craft, Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid, Stars in the Sky by Casey Grant, and Dear Martin by Nic Stone.

Please join me in welcoming my very special guest, Brandon “BrandElsa” Wagner! BrandElsa is a performer, professional stilt walker, motivational speaker, and life coach in training. They are also the first non-binary guest on this podcast and we are SO lucky they have agreed to share their time and heart with us. We spend our first moments conversing about city life and our new business idea: Barbara’s Blueberries (you’re gonna have to listen to find our more on that)! But then we center our conversation on the power of assumptions; how we can never assume what we think about someone is true. We become the most authentic version of ourselves when we take pride in exactly who we are. Brandon shares that when you show up in your authenticity, you give permission for others to do the same. We continue on to discuss society’s need for labels as a way to assign value. And Brandon proves that we are not defined by these labels. We are not simply made to live within a specific box. We exist without boundaries and once we discover that, once we push on the walls that close us in, we can finally experience all that is waiting for us out of the box. Enjoy!

I am so pleased to introduce actor, singer, dancer, writer, producer, CEO boss man, total bad ass: Mr. Sharrod Williams! Sharrod is a Broadway performer and the creator of his own web-series, Neighbors, which you will hear all about in this episode. Sharrod takes us through his journey of success, always watching and learning a he goes, fighting the thought of feeling behind, and thriving off what he calls the quiet hustle. We discuss the path to finding your star quality, honing it, not comparing it to others, and letting it guide you. We settle on the idea that with the right intention, anything is possible. There are plenty of seats at the table, so take yours. Ask yourself, what is actually stopping you from becoming the person you want to be? From believing in yourself and your dreams? Now is the time to level up and make it happen. Enjoy! Be sure to watch the award-winning 7 episode web-series, NEIGHBORS, now streaming on YouTube! For more information, visit their Instagram page, @neighbors_series.

Please welcome Mr. Michael Taylor Robinson! Michael and I went to college together at Montclair State University; he is a fellow actor and performer, and Disney dude! He begins by catching me up on his life with his boyfriend, Gabe, their apartment in Newark, and how, in more ways than one, he’s ended up in a place he never thought he’d be. We discuss our fear of failing and making mistakes, obsessing over the future, and how even though we’ve had tons of free time to think about our lives, we’re not much closer to finding any answers. But, we practice gratitude and find grace in knowing this life is astonishingly unpredictable. Michael opens up to me about his social anxiety growing up, feeling like the black sheep of his family and struggling to belong to any community. He grants us with his personal experience dealing with the murder of George Floyd and informs me on the absurdities of colorism, the concept of intersectionality, and the daily reminder of racism. Amidst the cackling laughter and moments of pure honesty, Michael proves, maybe without even realizing it, that we all can find a place to fit in. Enjoy!

Please join me in welcoming Mr. Austin Dunbar! We start by reminiscing about our day spent on Cape Cod, as it is our only actual memory together. Although Austin and I have barely met, we quickly learn you don’t need to know a person well to be open and honest with them. We are in a constant back and forth from the start, as we put into words (for the first time!) some of our most vulnerable and challenging thoughts.We laugh about the truth behind having an overactive imagination – although over-thinking can feel like hard work, it never actually yields any tangible results. We discover how much we overvalue the expectations we create for ourselves, and how much we undervalue the importance of self-care. We seem to touch on every major issues meddling with our minds and we learn that all we truly have is this present moment. The past is behind us, and although it’s vital to dream and wish and want, the future doesn’t exist. Enjoy!

Please join me in welcoming my newfound brother-from-another-mother, Mr. Sal Pavia! We talk mostly about his newest, perhaps greatest adventure of all time: fatherhood. He is a new dad to a beautiful two month old baby boy! We connect way too deeply on how similar our Italian mothers are, laughing about how positively overbearing they can be, but admitting we couldn’t possibly be the men we are today without them.We draw parallels between raising a child and living a fulfilling life – realizing that as soon as we get the hang of things, they’re going to change. We can ask ourselves how to have more patience or alter our measurement of success, but ultimately we can only do our best to find the answers. Sal shares with me how he is learning to accept himself and as each year passes, he becomes more of the person he is meant to be. No matter what challenges come his way, whether they be of the smelly diaper variety or the tribulations of being an actor in New York City, life goes on. Enjoy!

Hey everyone and welcome! I am excited to introduce Mr. Joshua Smith. Josh and I have met in passing, both working for Disney Cruise Line, but we’ve never had the chance to sit down and chat. That changes today! We share our experiences growing up as kids, our thoughts on America vs. Canada (Canada wins, obviously), and talk about how lucky we are to have such wonderfully loving wives. We do our best to make the most of our lives now, even though there are so many questions yet to be answered. Josh has certainly defined the line between over-thinking and trusting what’s to come, navigating it with ease. As he indicates, maybe it’s because of the enormous amount of pandemic-induced self-reflection. Nevertheless, we agree that without recognizing the difficult moments, we can’t appreciate the truly magnificent ones. In order to get to where we want to go, we need to get through this first. Enjoy!

Hey friends! It is my pleasure to introduce Mr. Taylor Holbrook. As he enjoys a beautiful sunny day in Orlando, Florida, where he’s currently living, we talk about his newfound excitement for the future. Taylor brings me back nine years to when he first left his home in Utah for work, and never looked back. He opens up about his separation from the Mormon faith and the delicate process of what he calls “unlearning.” He gives me a new perspective on embracing the uncomfortable. Taylor is dedicated, self-assured, and independent…maybe too independent at times, but he shares with me his commitment to start putting himself out there. As we catch up, we laugh and learn and feel good talking, as we find our way to meet in the middle. Enjoy!

I am so excited to share this episode with you today! I am proud to welcome, Mr. Bret Shuford. Bret is an actor, singer, dancer, director, and producer. He’s been on Broadway, he has a long list of TV and film credits, and he has travelled all over the world performing. Basically, he’s my hero! Bret is also a certified life coach and continues to share his passions and talents and heart with performers who are struggling to step into their spotlight, and stay there.Bret is so confident and collected and truly embodies what he teaches. He gives me insight into navigating social media in a productive and creative way. He shares practical advice to building confidence through consistency. I mean, this episode literally transforms into a real-time life coaching session! Every day is a chance to show up for ourselves and for our dreams. Whatever you’re after, it’s gotta be clear and it’s gotta be years. So close your eyes. What do you see? What’s your vision?If you’re interested in talking to Bret or think he can be of service, make sure tofollow him on Instagram @bretshuford or on his website, www.bretshuford.com. If you want to sign up for his 14-day Actor Mindset Reset program, visit www.actormindsetreset.com.

In this episode I’m chatting with another old friend I haven’t spoken with in a long time: actor, singer, musician, writer, composer, teacher, all around superstar, Mr. Adam Magnacca! We begin by discussing our shared love of Toronto, or as the locals say it, “Terrano,” and he catches me up on all he’s been doing this past year. We continue to agree on almost everything, mostly our appreciation of slowing down and enjoying life’s little moments. For whatever reason, Adam has me cracking up over and over again as he mentions this simple but ever so true phrase: “it’s just life baby, it’s not that deep.” Enjoy!I wanted to take this moment to mention one of my favorite podcasts, Words that Move Me, hosted by master mover, Dana Wilson. Her latest episode, #55, will give you one creative, thoughtful, and sure fire way to KEEP your new year’s resolutions. She is inspiring and delightful and so dang smart, so please make sure you check it out!

We did it! We are days away from the end of 2020, and I think it is safe to say we are all more than ready to say GOODBYE! But instead of forgetting everything that happened and hoping for a "do-over", maybe there's a way to bid farewell to 2020 in a healthy and positive way. In this episode, I talk all about this troubling and challenging year, how we can accept it for what it was, and how we can move forward when that clock strikes midnight.We are warriors, we are champions, and we are winners! We bested 2020, and we will be ready for whatever 2021 brings. As you toast in celebration, make sure to congratulate yourself for all you have done. You are capable of anything. Be safe, keep fighting, keep questioning, keep feeling, and never give up. I love you all, Happy New Year!

I’m so happy to introduce my old friend, Phil Sloves! It has been quite some time since Phil and I have had an in depth conversation but we don’t seem to skip a beat. Phil walks us through his life during the pandemic, his new title of ‘best man’, the value of finding people you can talk to, and the exact moment he knew he was meant to perform. I’ll tell you what; I haven’t laughed this hard in a while!Phil graciously and fearlessly opens up about his anxiety, and how it has been a part of him since he was a kid. He describes how it first manifested in stage fright, and how he, like a true champion, overcomes it every single day.Phil reminds me that we can’t let self doubt fool us – if you want something, go get it, and set your sights high.

It is my great pleasure to introduce the titillating, tap dancing treasure who’s full of charm and love and cheer…my dear friend, Mr. Cameron Hobbs! How’s that for an introduction?!We start by talking all about his long term relationship with his boyfriend, Stephen, and how they have made the most out of life during a global pandemic. Cameron tells stories about his dad, his twin brother, and his understanding of the “Midwest Mentality.” He shares his experience growing up in a community that was skewed by conservative viewpoints and how to meticulously remove what is ingrained in us from an early age.We go on to discuss the false standards of success, not being afraid to say ‘no’, and the fear of letting people down. Cameron gifts us with the possibility that you can find happiness at any point in your life, as long as you live in those present moments. Enjoy!

Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! I think this day, this week really is about giving thanks to everyone and everything in your life. We are all lucky to be alive and we have so much to be grateful for.Today, I am lucky enough to sit down with my friend, Lucas Parada and just explore. I think 'explore' is the best word to describe our experience together because we certainly go on a journey in this episode. We talk about dance and yoga and realizing there's a world beyond our own ambitions.We transition into focusing on helping people through creation rather than helping yourself through competition - and discussing the habitual practice of saying "you are enough."We close by learning about his family and his love of learning. Lucas believes that we are not as polarized as we think we are. And he has found that when you treat people with kindness, they respond in kindness. Enjoy the exploration!

Today I have a special guests, my very new friend but still very good friend, Corey J. Bradford. After chit chatting, we center ourselves by focusing on just how important it is to do what we're doing, sharing our time and thoughts (and feelings) with one another.Corey shares with me the difficult in evolving and exploring different versions of himself when he has long term friendships with people that know him one particular way. We agree that we can never be afraid or embarrassed to try something new.He takes some time to tell me all about his new passion project, The Weak Spots - now streaming on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, so make sure you check it out!Corey and I discuss the origin of purpose, how to be our best selves, the power of saying yes, and how in every day and every moment we are faced with choices. We can only hope to choose what is right for us and for our betterment as people - and no matter what, to be proud of the choices we make. After our long and fulfilling talk, we decide that maybe 2020 is in fact the year we all needed - to try new things, to learn more, and begin our change.

I am pleased to share with you Mr. Andy Tofa! We dive right into an extremely heartfelt analysis of his current relationship - attributing its success and strength to a commitment to complete honesty. We discuss how emotional vulnerability is a necessary key to a loving partnership.Andy faces his feelings of abandonment and not being enough as he expresses his everlasting faith and power in believing in something greater than yourself. He reminds me that you only see miracles if you're looking for them.We share a lot of laughs, a lot of love, and of course I couldn't let the conversation end without learning a little more about his incredible success in Hamilton! This is our first long talk in quite some time. Enjoy!

This episode is inspired by the picture recently posted on Twitter of Joe Biden kissing his son, Hunter, on the cheek with the caption: "Does this look like an appropriate father/son interaction to you." Why is showing affection and sharing our feelings seen as a sign of weakness? Why are men generally not accepted when showing affection, especially to other men? I reveal my thoughts on the origin of these misconceptions, how we can practically break through outdated expectations and stereotypes, and take control of our lives!~PLEASE VOTE AND VOTE EARLY~Do I have a proper introduction? Nope. Do I have a theme song? Not yet. This is an evolving idea and it is not fully fleshed out, but I am learning that is no reason not to begin. So before I am truly "ready", welcome to Cherin at Home - a chance for me to sit down with you, open up, and explore. What I can offer, and what I will always have, is my truth, my feelings, and my continued effort to connect us all. Thank you so much for listening and I hope you enjoy!*Check out the video on my Cherin Feelings YouTube channel*

Today I am joined by Tre Booker-Medley who, among countless other things, has mastered the art of positivity. He begins by updating me on his wedding - which still happened in July, although quite differently than originally planned. Tre lends me great insight into his loving, equal partnership with his husband, Jordan.We then discuss the difference between confidence and comparison, and how to move through life as your whole self. Tre expresses his personal attachment and commitment to the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as the value and responsibility of speaking your individual story.Ultimately, Tre depicts for us the beauty, pride, and power that comes from being a Black, gay man in America - while encouraging us all to challenge the thoughts and beliefs that were once taught. Enjoy!

I am super excited to release this episode - it is my first recorded episode in almost a year! Times are absolutely crazy right now, but I am here to remind you that we are going to get through this. Keep challenging yourself, keep doing the things that bring you joy, and keep moving forward.Today, I am joined by my good friend and former Disney colleague, David Brown! He is a true entertainer who has made a life out of putting a smile on everyone's face. We discuss the impossible standards of social media, the madness that is our country, and the difficulty of keeping promises to ourselves. David unapologetically opens up about his depression during the pandemic, so please, go with grace as you listen. Although our outlook can be bleak at times, I am hopeful that if we surround ourselves with people who love us, we will overcome...or at least learn to chill out. Enjoy!

I am proud to welcome Nico DeJesus, a man whose determination is only outmatched by his giant heart. We discuss the importance of believing in ourselves, the discipline it takes to achieve greatness, and the value of walking through life with open arms. Thoughts of how we want to be remembered fuel the pursuit of our dreams. Regardless of what we're after, there's always something new to learn and a new opportunity to grow - it never stops. (Recorded on 11/25/2019).

Welcome to the one and only Josh Pins! Josh is one of the hardest working actors I know, and has one of the biggest hearts too. We chat about his thoughts on NYC vs. LA, staying present in the moment, and how "luck" truly is the residue of hard work. He believes (and proves!), that if you keep at something long enough, anything is possible. (Recorded 11/17/2019).

The humble beginnings of a “Virginia Boy” (even though he was born in Colorado), this episode features a true friend of mine, Mr. Brennan. He guides me through his Christian upbringing, his love of theatre, and how his faith strengthens him every day. This conversation is, in Michael’s words, “the first time I’ve ever publicly talked so openly about my story.” I couldn’t be more grateful that he would share it with me.(Recorded 11/11/19)

Welcome Lee Cohen, a jack of all trades and a friend of mine for many years. I have been so fortunate to find him again in our adult life and create a beautiful friendship. In this episode we discuss the misleading distraction of relationships, the freedom to be silly and make mistakes, and the truth that we may be unique, but we are not unique in our problems. Lee peppers in some historical and philosophical references as we discover the significance of being better than our past self. Enjoy!

Welcome multi-talented, musical theatre actor Peter Surace! Peter and I are former college roommates and have been friends since 2011. We discuss the ongoing commitment that all relationships require, our inability to read the subtext, and the importance of finding those that fan your flames. Peter opens up about his sexuality, nurturing one's self love, and comments that others don't ever really care as much as we do.

Welcome Chris Radd, a friend of mine since 2016. In this episode, we pick up in the middle of a discussion about making friends in foreign places, the law of attraction, and the body’s positive response to gratitude. We discover the playfulness of life as we detach ourselves from our judgmental thoughts. 

Welcome Matt Madden, my first guest and best friend. Here we discuss growing up as a victim of bullying, the comforting escape he found in music and theatre, and the necessity of having someone to lean on.We explore focusing on the positive, reaching outward to reach inward, always "living in the question", and letting time carry us like a wave.Books mentioned: No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh and The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron.

Welcome to Cherin Feelings! My name is Chris Cherin and in this episode you will learn a bit about me and where I come from. I will also dive into the origin of this podcast, its mission statement, and my intentions moving forward. I close the episode with a self-produced discussion about the necessity of change and the limitless discovery that comes with it. Thank you for listening!

A sneak peak at the introductory episode of Cherin Feelings! I discuss the origin of the idea for this podcast and my conviction to develop its purpose.