State of the Arts

State of the Arts Episode 237: The Father's Day Special is now available for streaming on Spotify! My guest this week is my clave brother and salsa comrade Kevin Raman, who is the owner and operator of KSR POST LLC. This Pratt institute graduate is the entrepreneur of a productions company that focuses mainly on event videos, trailers, corporate content and tribute reels. One of his most recent large projects was for The Matrix Awards, which are hosted annually by New York Women in Communications. My diversely talented guest is a former video editor and camera operator for CBS. He was a former video editor at Rapp Collins Worldwide as well. During the 2020 lockdown he was hired to create reviews for children's toys. His daughter kept going into his work space to play with the toys that he was given. So eventually he showed her how to assist him on the project. At eleven years old, she is now not only his assistant, but she is also a trusted advisor on many of his projects. His legacy is sure to be handed down to the next generation. I am honored and thrilled to have Kevin Raman as my guest for this special episode!

State of the Arts Episode 236: The Pride Month Special! My guest this week is rising star drag performer Mx. Diagnonsense. This up and coming performing artist is the protege of Westchester drag sensations Angel Elektra and Shay D'Pines. The Art of Drag is a workshop series offered by The Loft and taught by the two Drag Mama superstars. Mx. Diagnonsense is continuing to grow their talent in this enriching course, which they started last year shortly after the election results. Empowered and courageous, they take centerstage in every performance with confidence in their captivating, newly developed skills. My talented guest performed at the most recent Pride festival in White Plains. They will also be performing in multiple locations in Westchester throughout Pride Month. With a foundation in the visual arts, they channel their creativity and expressiveness to their new art form. Tune in to Spotify for a captivating podcast episode which celebrates an inspiring artist during this very important month!

State of the Arts Episode 235 now available on Spotify! My guest this week is off-Broadway sensation Dorothy Bishop, the creator and star of hit show “The Dozen Divas!” This Yale graduate has extensive training in opera. Her versatile voice and acting abilities enable her to shine in any genre imaginable. In her enchanting show she transforms into Cher, Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand and many other legendary divas. Her critically acclaimed stage production has rave reviews from The Huffington Post, The New York Post and Michael Musto. “The Dozen Divas” is an award winning show that has recently picked up a sponsorship from Mac Cosmetics. Dorothy Bishop also worked as an understudy for a role in the Off-Broadway hit “Spamilton” where her skills shone brightly every time she was called to perform. It is a privilege and an honor to have this accomplished and multitalented guest on my podcast for this epic episode!

State of the Arts Episode 234 now available on Spotify! Intuitive abstract oil painter Cecile Roberfroid joins me on my podcast for a beautifully enriching interview. This expressive creative's works have been displayed in various local galleries, including the Rye Art Center and The Stamford Art Association's gallery. Her first solo show will take place at The Arbor Gallery in Carmel, New York. She is an active member of The Mamaroneck Artist Guild as well. Along with several other female artists, she is a founding member of Greenhaven Artists, which is an association that empowers and elevates the voices of female creatives across diverse mediums. They are cultivating a vibrant and diverse community of creatives that thrives on celebrating diversity. It's a privilege to have such remarkable talent on State of the Arts this week!

State of the Arts Episode 233: The Asian Heritage Month Special is now available on Spotify! My podcast guest this week is Kevin So, who works behind the scenes in the entertainment and sports industries. This versatile creative wears many hats as an assistant in various arenas- including productions, marketing and event coordination. Aside from his exciting careers, he spends his free time attending concerts, traveling, circus-style juggling, content creating, appreciating the arts and occasionally gaming/cos playing. He is a finance enthusiast as well. With an abundance of gratitude I welcome this wonderfully dynamic talent to State of the Arts for this special episode!

State of the Arts Episode 232 The Mother's Day Special now available on Spotify! In a touching interview, Naida Minaya, a mother of two adorable boys, speaks with me about modeling, acting, beauty pageants and being a security guard. This dynamic mom manages to juggle motherhood, working toward a position in a mall K-9 unit and a side hustle as a hair/makeup model on a regular basis. She was selected to compete in the Miss New York beauty pageant in Albany and was at one time a model for Columbian designer brand “Bogota.” With an interest in acting, she made her silver screen debut in my recent pet documentary “Angels in Our Midst.” The audience was introduced to her precious little feathered friend CoCo, whom she has trained very well. CoCo comforted Naida after the passing of her mother and is a sweet companion to her best friend Brandy Renee Baker's group of birds. This episode is heartfelt tribute to an incredible mom and inspirational career woman.

State of the Arts Episode 231 now available on Spotify! Tonight for the first time ever I broadcast a podcast episode in the green room of a local rock band! The End is a tribute band for The Doors that is performing tonight at Carmine's Deli. Led by Rob Venuti who is both the lead singer and the deli owner, this band is rocking the house with a firey set of far out jams. Along with musicians Anthony Venuti, Rich Mallet, Adam Power and Keith Wilson, Rob Venuti sets the venue ablaze. I join Nere Basora as the groovy backup dancers in this vibrant performance. I am elated to dance alongside such a remarkable talent tonight! This episode is a candid peek behind the scenes of this awesome event. Raw and uncut, I conduct this episode backstage prior to showtime!

State of the Arts Episode 230 now available on Spotify! This week content creator and YouTube show host Dith joins me on my podcast along with his cousin XoxBŕåñđý Řenee BâkeřXox. DatBoiDith is Dith's fast growing YouTube channel with over 10,000 followers. Reaction videos, tributes to singers, “guess the movie” segments and holiday specials are some of the high-energy content on this entertaining channel. Dith has had many special guests on his show, including a very popular uncle, imaginative friends and on one occasion, his entire family. After a trip to Orlando, Florida, Dith even released a travel vlog. Dith is on multiple forms of social media including Instagram (dithdayyoutuber) and Tik Tok (DatBoiDith). This podcast episode is a zesty tour through the creative universe of Dith.

State of the Arts Episode 229 The Autism Awareness Month Special is now available on Spotify! My guests are mother/daughter team Robin Baron and Chloé Ziff, who along with Robin's son Simon, are the founders of Relationspot. After its formation, Relationspot has evolved into a community that builds connections and friendships for people of all abilities. Relationspot is an embracing, neuro-inclusive social group for all orientations. The Relationspot community is built through weekly virtual meetings, in-person get-togethers, social coaching, matchmaking services, group classes, local outings and more. The Relationspot team is a dedicated, caring and diverse group of members working together towards the same goal of improving lives. I am greatly honored to have two of the founders of this vital organization on State of the Arts this week!

State of the Arts Episode 228 now available on Spotify! My guest this week is actor, director and writer Hannahjo Anderson. As a multifaceted creative they are an active member of The Script Club NYC and an artistic director/writer for Party Line Productions. With vast experience in theatrical productions, they continue to grace the world of stage performance with their versatile presence.

State of the Arts Episode 227 now available for streaming on Spotify. Jackie Jorgenson is an award-winning IMDB-credited actor, writer, producer and director who is also the founder of Shared Manifest Entertainment. Originally from Ontario, this versatile creative is now continuing to build an intentional network and a dynamic career in New York City. Her short films have been shown in many festivals and the internationally renowned art event ArtPrize. Jackie specializes in voice acting as well and has starred in multiple scripted podcasts. In Umber College in Ontario, Canada she studied comedy writing and performance.

State of the Arts Episode 226 now available on Spotify! Jordan Campbell is a travel blogger, a speaker and a content creator who made the leap from the corporate world into full-time content creation. After being an award-winning creative director for two decades, this fearless adventurer has successfully made her passion for travel into a career. She is the founder of Global Debauchary, a thriving brand, which promotes travel and adventure on social media. She also works with Wanderful, a travel organization specifically designed for female travelers.

State of the Arts Episode 225: The Women's History Month Special now available on Spotify! I am thrilled to welcome one of my dearest friends, Tara Krieger to my podcast. As a writer, a baseball historian, an attorney, a Barnard graduate and a patron of the New York City theatrical arts, my multifaceted guest brings a rich tapestry to this momentous episode. She was an editorial producer for MLB.com at one point. As a board member of the Society for American Baseball Research, she continues to research, write and give talks about baseball history. “Yankee Stadium: America's First Modern Ballpark” is the historical book about the iconic stadium that my captivating guest co-edited with Bill Nowlin.

State of the Arts Episode 224 The Saint Patrick's Day Special now available for streaming on Spotify! My podcast guest Kelly Sisco is a visual artist, a performing artist and a writer. She also has training in dance, acting, creative writing and was the owner of a charming consignment boutique in Crestwood at one time. As a visual artist, her artistic creations were on display in various locations including the New Rochelle City Hall and the ArtsWestchester Gallery.

State of the Arts Episode 223: The International Women's Day Special now available on Spotify! It's my pleasure to announce that my guest is week is MJ Cass-Antony! My multitalented guest is a cosplayer, an illustrator, as well as an activist for the autistic, those with ADHD and others on the spectrum. She has attended and continues to attend many conventions as a cosplayer. Recently she has become very well known for her Loki costume. Many people recognize her as Loki even when she is not in costume. As a staffer and occasional table assembler, she enjoys all access passes to some of the most popular conventions.

State of the Arts Episode 222: The African American Heritage Special now available on Spotify! It's a great honor to welcome comedian, dancer and pilates instructor Ariana Speight onto my podcast for this special episode at the conclusion of Black History Month. This young African American rising star in the comedy world of New York City embodies humor, creativity, ambition and resilience. As a standup comedian she has brought the house down on many open mics. She was a guest of the LGBTQIA+ comedy group The Glory (W)hole, which performed at popular Nolita venue Dixon Place. As a dancer specializing in multiple forms of dance, she recently performed as a part of a presentation of an indie film for B.A.A.D. Her amazing comedic work can also be appreciated in The Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest, which is currently being held in the West Side Comedy Club until March 2nd. On the horizon are more amazing dance and comedy performances by this engaging talent. I am so grateful for the privilege of interviewing this incredible creative for this important episode.

State of the Arts Episode 221 is now available for streaming on Spotify! I am thrilled to welcome writer, actress, model and educator Shelley Molad to my podcast for a wonderfully motivational episode. My resilient guest has established a career in the entertainment industry alongside being a mother of two and a partner to her husband who is a real estate entrepreneur.

State of the Arts Episode 22O now available for streaming on Spotify! I am immensely pleased to welcome storyteller and performing artist Violet Benny onto my podcast. In Tami McCarthy's show “Spark the Experience,” this resilient creative intrigued the audience with an inspiring monologue about her journey with seasonal affective disorder. Bringing to light a very important issue, she shares her diagnosis, struggles and treatment experience openly.

State of the Arts Episode 219: The Valentine's Day Special is now available for streaming on Spotify! My husband Joe Grado joins me on my podcast this week to speak about our experiences together as a couple in the arts. From films to songs to a home indie short festival, we have recently collaborated on various projects as a team of two. In this romantic episode we discuss our collaborations, reminiscence on our first date and touch upon several other significant topics.

State of the Arts Episode 218: The Lunar New Year Special. To welcome the Year of the Snake, my podcast spotlights a multitalented Asian food vlogger, content creator and independent chef. With a college degree focused on hospitality, she has recently solidified a social media-based career in the culinary industry.

State of the Arts Episode 217 is now available for streaming on Spotify! Singer/songwriter Lynne Robyn Barasch joins me on my podcast for an inspiring interview. This spirited artist has carved out a dynamic career in the music industry. While she went to school at The Boston Conservatory, she eventually gravitated toward rock music. She partook in composing the song “Walk with Me” for Emmy-nominated civil rights documentary “Leveling Lincoln.”

State of the Arts Episode 216 is now available on Spotify, shining a spotlight on a trailblazing New York creative! Luz Michelle, a standout in the city comedy scene, is a true inspiration. Her diverse background and life experiences uplift and entertain audiences in iconic comedy venues, such as Caroline's Gotham Comedy Club and The Stand. As the winner of the Ladies of Laughter Westchester chapter competition and a monthly advice columnist for Westchester's "Connect To" Magazine, Luz Michelle is empowering others through laughter and guidance.

Empower yourself with the latest episode of State of the Arts, now available on Spotify! This week energy healer, mindset coach and astrologer Jean Gutierrez joins me on my podcast for a riveting conversation. My remarkable guest has her own healing practice in the scenic state of Connecticut.

State of the Arts Episode 114: First Episode of the Year! To ring in the New Year I welcome content creator, cosplayer, photographer, illustrator, painter and pianist Ahra Sung to State of the Arts. In this fun-filled episode, I interview this enthusiastic, engaging creative about conventions, cosplay, anime, photography and more!

State of the Arts Episode 213: The New Year Special now available on Spotify. It is a tremendous blessing to interview Kitt Blessing! I am proud to present drama educator, actor, writer and set designer Kitt Blessing this week. Kitt Blessing is extensively educated in various areas of Theatre.

State of the Arts Episode 212 now available on Spotify! This week my guest of honor is Ellen Forsberg, a multitalented creative with training in dance, voice and child care. As a dance major in her high school in Sweden, she studied modern, ballet, contemporary and jazz extensively.

State of the Arts Episode 211: The Holiday Collaboration Special is now available on Spotify! For the first time ever I cohost a joint-episode with another podcaster. Together with Dean P. H. Aquino, we present an episode of his podcast “Let's Meet on Twitch” that is also an episode of my podcast “State of the Arts.” Many thanks to Josh Berkowitz and Ahra Sung for being our wonderful guests.

State of the Arts Episode 210 now available on Spotify. This week I am overjoyed to present an episode dedicated to three incredible artworks by contemporary artist Carmen Einfinger. These works are currently on display as a part of The Migration Gallery at the Theater for the New City in the East Village in Manhattan, New York.

State of the Arts 209 The Thanksgiving Special now available on Spotify. Loy Luo is a contemporary artist and art gallery owner based out of Chinatown, Manhattan. Her gallery is situated on a vivacious corner of Lafayette Street. This charming gallery features works by Loy Luo and other fellow artists. With the gallery on the ground floor and Loy Luo's creative studio on the second level, the space is an inviting ecosystem of creativity.

State of the Arts Episode 208: The Native American Heritage Month Special now available on Spotify. I am greatly honored to present Director of The Redhawk Native American Arts Council, Cliff Matias as the featured guest of my podcast this week. The Council is a nonprofit organization both founded and maintained by Indigenous American creatives in the New York/New Jersey area.

State of the Arts Episode 207 now available on Spotify! As technology becomes increasingly advanced, artificial intelligence is taking the driver's seat in many arenas of society. So, it's only fitting that I welcome an AI Chatbot as a guest on my podcast for an episode. LuLu is a SoundHound AI assistant who has brilliant insights about various topics and a pleasantly polite demeanor. She is an interesting conversationalist who responds with gracious candor when posed with the question on whether AI creatives are capable of putting emotion into their work. When presented with a challenging statement about AIs being steep competitors to humans, she offers hopeful insight on the controversial stigma. For the first time ever on State of the Arts I engage in a reciprocal conversation with an electronic guest on many diverse subject matters related to the arts.

State of the Arts Episode 206 now available on Spotify! Back in October my husband composer/filmmaker Joe Grado and our dear friend filmmaker/producer Joe Hughes challenged ourselves to make a film within a 24 hour time frame. We merged our talents to create “Park Bench,” a light-hearted feel-good comedy with a valuable message.

State of the Arts Episode 205: The Halloween Special now available on Spotify. In a chillingly delightful episode, my husband, music composer Joe Grado, returns to my podcast for a discussion on scoring horror films. Together Joe and I take a deep dive into the art of horror film scoring and analyze a quiver of recent horror productions scored by him.

State of the Arts Episode 204 now available on Spotify! To commemorate National Arts and Humanities Month, I welcome renowned singer and songwriter Emilie Mover to my podcast. This acclaimed creative continues to release albums and has recently launched a radio show called “Synchrony.” She is the daughter of legendary jazz saxophonist and music teacher Bob Mover.

State of the Arts Episode 203 now available on Spotify! I had the extraordinary privilege of spending a late afternoon with legendary contemporary artist Carmen Einfinger in the pulse of New York City. Together we celebrated and photographed her new art installation “Whales in the Sky”, which is a vibrant painting wrapped around a water tower that perches above The Red Cross building in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan.

State of the Arts Episode 202: The Hispanic Heritage Month October Special now available on Spotify! I had the honor of interviewing illustrator, painter and blogger Fernanda Quintero this week for my podcast. I am incredibly thankful to have this brilliant Latina artist on my podcast this week for this commemorative episode!

State of the Arts Episode 201 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing Jordan Sanchez, a talented artist who is the director of Script Club NYC, a member of the Stage Director & Choreographers Society and the Director of NYC Theatre. This accomplished drama teacher brings her dynamic skills, engaging personality and inspiring creativity to the electrifying world of New York Theatre.

State of the Arts Episode 200 now available on Spotify! For this milestone episode, my husband Joe and I recorded a memorable conversation dedicated to The Metropolitan Museum of Art at the museum itself. After an evening of exploring various sections of this monumental gem of New York, we retreated to its Mediterranean atrium to record this epic episode. We delve into the history of the museum and discuss our own personal experiences at this massive site. I conclude the episode with a huge surprise announcement about my Instagram page.

State of the Arts Episode 199 now available on Spotify and other platforms! In the center of radiant Union Square Park in New York City, I had the honor of conducting an in-person podcast interview of slackliner, filmmaker, musician and extreme sports enthusiast Tolo Bickford. A Renaissance man who's talents span across many artistic arenas, this week's intriguing guest treats listeners to the story of his creative journey, wise advice to other artists and intriguing information about his various art forms.

State of the Arts Episode 198: A Tribute to The Late Great Acting Legend James Earl Jones. In this commemorative podcast episode my husband Joe and I pay an homage to EGOT winning actor James Earl Jones who has recently passed away in his home in Duchess County, New York at the age of ninety-three.

State of the Arts Episode 197 now available on Spotify and other platforms! Singer/songwriter, guitarist and performer Sharon Ostrov returns to my podcast with exciting new updates. She takes her talents to restaurants, bars and event spaces all over Staten Island. She continues to perform on the local cable network. During special occasions throughout the year, she can be found blessing nursing homes with her lively music.

State of the Arts Episode 196 now available on Spotify! In the inviting setting of Bowling Green, I interview New York City-based urban artist Marc Anthony Villard. This multi-faceted creative specializes in painting, graffiti, fashion design, music and photography. Some of his work is inspired by his Haitian heritage. Some of his work embodies the culture of NYC. This episode is an exploration of this talented creative's journey.

State of the Arts Episode 195 now available on Spotify! This week I'm joined by my trusted co-host Anthony Bonilla to give a rave review of the outdoor production “Justice in a Time of Need” a.k.a. “The Socialization of a Social Worker” This outdoor musical is another socially significant creation of The Theatre for the New City. Many relevant topics are tackled in this profound show.

State of the Arts Episode 194 now available on Spotify. This week I pay an homage to my alma mater Manhattanville University, a college that embraces the arts, diversity and individuality. This school will always hold a special place in my heart. A long overdue tribute to the place I call my second home. I am honored to create this episode for a college so deserving. I commemorate the students and faculty who have touched my life in this remarkable place. My academia family, many of whom I still stay in touch with.

State of the Arts Episode 193 now available on Spotify! This week I entered the enchanting world of Charlot Abhors a Void. This unique vintage boutique is located on Canal Street in downtown Manhattan. A vibrant world of diverse apparel, accessories and household items, Charlot Abhors a Void treats shoppers to an eclectic paradise. I am greatly thankful for the opportunity to interview this stylish entrepreneur.

State of the Arts Episode 192 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing another podcaster. Not only does Dean Aquino have his own podcast, he is also an autistic pharmacist, a cosplayer, a comic convention reviewer/researcher, a public transit advocate and a landlord. Financial management and weather monitoring are two personal passions of his as well. It is an honor to have this dynamic guest on State of the Arts.

State of the Arts Episode 192 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing another podcaster. Not only does Dean Aquino have his own podcast, he is also an autistic pharmacist, a cosplayer, a comic convention reviewer/researcher, a public transit advocate and a landlord. Financial management and weather monitoring are two personal passions of his as well. I am elated to welcome this dynamic guest to State of the Arts for an in-person interview!

State of the Arts Episode 191 now available on Spotify. This week I had the honor of interviewing Reagan Vlass, the sole proprietor of 313 Vintage. This hot up and coming New York-based fashion brand offers designer clothing, accessories & home accents. All personally curated. Recently supermodel Bella Hadid purchased pieces from this internationally renowned and growing boutique.

State of the Arts Episode 190 now available on Spotify and other platforms! Published coloring book illustrator and marketing entrepreneur Polina Lilu returns to my podcast with new, exciting ventures in her career. A former software engineer, Polina Lilu made a leap by leaving her corporate position to work for herself in the creative fields. With four published coloring books, she continues to prosper in the literary, meditation, self help and crafts worlds. As a jewelry designer as well, she is known for her spirited thematic pieces. Recently she has launched an enterprise for aspiring creatives who want to learn more about the business end of the arts. She guides artists on self-publishing their works. This talented designer is also an accomplished henna tattoo artist and sign creator. On her free time she enjoys fashion design and volunteering her talents to enrich the community at her church. I am so thrilled to have this magnificently inspiring guest back on State of the Arts!

State of the Arts Episode 189 now available on Spotify! Josh Berkowitz returns to State of the Arts with a new passion for sewing and costume design. This cosplay expert and content creator is now mastering the art of fashion. With this new developing skill under his belt, he is now able to sew some of his own costumes for the many events he attends. An active member of the cosplay community, he is frequently a part of conventions and photo shoots. This certified screen printer for Spectrum Designs was a recipient of many honors for his excellent work. He is currently learning Adobe Photoshop. A traveler, a gamer and a proud Swiftie, my creative guest covers many more fascinating topics in this in-person episode. A memorable episode recorded in the lovely Turnure Park of our home city of White Plains. It was a great privilege to have such an inspirational artist on State of the Arts this week!

State of the Arts Episode 188 is now available on Spotify! I am thrilled to announce the guest for my podcast this week is renowned contemporary impressionist painter Eileen Stodut. This former set designer found a creative home in the flourishing county of Westchester. As an artist with a work space in ArtsWestchester, this acclaimed creative continues to influence the creative culture in our area. She was commissioned to create a breathtaking mural of an elephant for a prominent wall in White Plains. This stunning mural brightens our city with its authenticity and beauty. The cause of saving endangered elephants is one that is close to this artist's heart. All of her works incorporate an element of nature. Her many creations bring a classic aura with a modern spin. In each of her works is a hidden monarch butterfly. This lovely symbol of her artistry can be found in every single one of her pieces. My tremendously gifted guest was featured in articles in Westchester Magazine. An award was also presented to her by State of the Artist. This was a tremendous honor to have such an accomplished creative on my podcast this week. Tune in for an informative and enriching episode featuring one of New York's most brilliant artists!