The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul

Tony Award winner and Grammy nominee Lena Hall brings her signature openness to The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul, discussing her ongoing journey with self-kindness in the arts, the surprising truth about winning a Tony Award, and the supportive kindness of Jon Hamm while filming Your Friends and Neighbors. LENA HALL is a Tony award winner and Grammy nominee who stars alongside Jon Hamm on the new Apple series, Your Friends and Neighbors, which premiered to rave reviews on April 11th (one episode a week after initial first two episodes in premiere week). Lena plays “Ali Cooper” the younger sister of “Coop” played by Jon Hamm. We come to find out she is a singer / songwriter who has had some mental health issues regarding a past relationship and is trying to start over again both in life and in music. Lena's character gets to perform throughout the episodes, performing original material that Lena wrote, as well as covers of Radiohead, The Thompson Twins and more. She will be releasing an EP and album of her music from the show. Add in the Tony Award winning / Grammy nominated rock and roll voice and fans new and old are very excited. Previously, Lena starred on AMC's Snowpiercer for 4 seasons opposite Jennifer Connolly after winning the Tony Award for co-starring in Hedwig and the Angry Inch on Broadway opposite Neil Patrick Harris. She originated the role of Nicola in the Broadway musical Kinky Boots Her other Broadway credits include Cats, 42nd Street, Dracula, the Musical and Tarzan, the Musical. Hall has also starred in Off-Broadway productions such as Radiant Baby, Bedbugs!!!, Rooms: A Rock Romance, The Toxic Avenger, Prometheus Bound, Chix6, Little Shop of Horrors, and the 2017 original play How to Transcend a Happy Marriage. Follow Lena @lenarockerhall Let's be friends! @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy, Tony, and SAG Award nominee Norm Lewis joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss leading a cast with kindness, the unique way advertising influenced his career, his new show Ceremonies in Dark Old Men and more. NORM LEWIS was recently seen onstage starring in the national tour of the Tony Award-winning production of A Soldier's Play and in Andrew Lloyd Webber's West End Concert of Love Never Dies. He starred in Spike Lee's critically acclaimed, "Da 5 Bloods," and in the groundbreaking FX series, Pose. Additionally, Mr. Lewis can be seen starring opposite Hilary Swank in the feature "The Good Mother," Amazon Prime's newest series, Swarm, and Hulu's, Up Here. He was also seen as 'Caiaphas' in the award-winning NBC television special, “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert!,” alongside John Legend, Sara Bareilles, and Alice Cooper. Mr. Lewis returned to Broadway in the Fall of 2021, starring in Chicken and Biscuits at the Circle In The Square Theatre. He previously appeared in the Broadway revival of Once on This Island and as Sweeney Todd in the Off-Broadway production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at the Barrow Street Theatre, receiving the AUDELCO Award for his performance. In May of 2014, he made history as The Phantom of the Opera's first African American Phantom on Broadway. He has been seen on PBS in the Live From Lincoln Center productions of Showboat with Vanessa Williams, Norm Lewis: Who Am I?, New Year's Eve: A Gershwin Celebration with Diane Reeves, as well as American Voices with Renée Fleming and the PBS Specials First You Dream – The Music of Kander & Ebb and Ella Wishes You A Swingin' Christmas. He can be seen recurring in the VH1 series, Daytime Divas, also alongside Vanessa Williams. His additional television credits include Women of The Movement, Law & Order, Dr. Death, Mrs. America, Better Things, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Bull, Chicago Med, Gotham, The Blacklist, and Blue Bloods, as well as in his recurring role as Senator Edison Davis on the hit drama Scandal. Mr. Lewis is a proud, founding member of Black Theatre United, an organization which stands together to help protect Black people, Black talent and Black lives of all shapes and orientations in theatre and communities across the country. He received Tony, Drama Desk, Drama League, and Outer Critics Circle award nominations for his performance as Porgy in the Broadway production of The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess. Other Broadway credits include Sondheim on Sondheim, The Little Mermaid, Les Misérables, Chicago, Amour, The Wild Party, Side Show, Miss Saigon, and The Who's Tommy. In London's West End he has appeared as Javert in Les Misérables and Les Misérables: The 25th Anniversary Concert, which aired on PBS. Off-Broadway Mr. Lewis has performed in Dessa Rose (Drama Desk nomination, AUDELCO Award), Shakespeare in the Park's The Tempest, The Two Gentlemen of Verona (Drama League nomination), Captains Courageous, and A New Brain. His regional credits include Porgy in The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess (A.R.T.), Ragtime, Dreamgirls (with Jennifer Holliday), First You Dream, Sweeney Todd, and The Fantasticks. His additional film credits include Christmas In Tune (starring opposite Reba McEntire), Magnum Opus, Winter's Tale, Sex and the City 2, Confidences, and Preaching to the Choir. Norm's albums "The Norm Lewis Christmas Album" & "This is The Life" can be found on Amazon.com as well as cdbaby.com. Ceremonies in Dark Old Men Tickets: https://www.thepeccadillo.com/ Follow Norm: @thenormlewis Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becca Tilley (The Bachelor) joins Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness to explore how caring for our furry friends deepens empathy, why her viral Wicked‑inspired video struck a chord, and how her love story with Hayley Kiyoko was an act of kindness. Meet Becca Tilley. A Louisiana native, the 30-something resides in Los Angeles, California with her girlfriend, Hayley Kiyoko and pup, Phoebe. She is the personality behind People's Choice awarded podcast, Scrubbing In with Becca Tilley & Tanya Rad and a lifestyle influencer and content creator. Becca was quickly put in the public eye on season 19 of The Bachelor and an additional run on season 20. Find her eating McDonald's or sipping a Dr. Pepper in her free time.  Visit: mrsmeyers.com for more. Follow Becca: @beccatilley Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside Boop! the Musical's opening night on Broadway as The Art of Kindness host Robert Peterpaul interviews members of the cast and creative team at Sardi's restaurant in NYC. In this episode you will hear from... Creative team members: Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots), Tony Award®-nominated lyricist Susan Birkenhead (Working, Jelly's Last Jam), Tony Award®-winning book writer Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone) and Associate Choreographer Jon Rua.   The principal cast of BOOP!, who received critical acclaim in the Chicago pre-Broadway run last year: Jasmine Amy Rogers as Betty Boop, Tony Award®-winner Faith Prince as Valentina, Ainsley Melham as Dwayne, Erich Bergen as Raymond Demarest, Stephen DeRosa as Grampy, Anastacia McCleskey as Carol Evans, Angelica Hale as Trisha, Phillip Huber as Pudgy the Dog, and Aubie Merrylees as Oscar Delacorte. Plus ensemble members: Tristen Buettel (Bad Cinderella) and Nina Lafarga (In the Heights). Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The luminous Kate Baldwin joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul this Women's History Month to discuss acts of kindness throughout her career on Broadway, Maestra Music and more. Kate Baldwin is a two-time Tony Award and four-time Drama Desk Award nominee who has delighted audiences across the country with performances on Broadway, in concert and on television. Kate starred as Irene Molloy opposite Bette Midler, David Hyde Pierce and Gavin Creel in the hit Broadway revival of Hello, Dolly!, for which she was nominated for the Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards. She originated the role of Sandra Bloom in Big Fish on Broadway and earned accolades and a Drama Desk Award nomination for her work as Leslie Lynnton Benedict in Michael John LaChiusa's Giant at The Public Theatre. She received a Drama Desk Award nomination for her role as Jen in Keen Company's 20th Anniversary revival of Andrew Lippa and Tom Greenwald's John & Jen. She garnered critical acclaim and a Lucille Lortel Award nomination for Tom Kitt and John Logan's Superhero at Second Stage. But it was her starring role in the 2009 Broadway revival of Finian's Rainbow, which drew Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award nominations and put her on the map as “a real musical theatre star.” (New York Post) Kate has appeared in the Broadway casts of The Full Monty, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Wonderful Town. Other New York theatre productions include Songbird at 59e59 and in The Dead, 1904 for Irish Rep, Fiorello! and Love Life for City Center Encores! She starred in The King and I at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Irving Berlin's White Christmas (San Francisco, Detroit, Toronto), The Women at The Old Globe, Henry V at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, She Loves Me at the Willliamstown Theatre Festival, and The Music Man and South Pacific at Arena Stage, earning a Helen Hayes Award nomination. She drew raves for her portrayal of Francesca Johnson in The Bridges of Madison County directed by original cast member Hunter Foster and for her turn as Dorothy Brock in 42nd Street at Goodspeed Opera House directed by original creator Randy Skinner. She has performed in concert with the American Pops Orchestra, New York Pops, Boston Pops, National Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Portland Symphony, Phoenix Symphony, Chicago Symphony, American Songbook series at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center and at the legendary New York nightclubs Feinstein's, Birdland and 54 Below. Her concert work also includes several appearances with Stephen Sondheim as a featured performer in his critically acclaimed evening, “A Conversation with Stephen Sondheim.”  On television, her work includes appearances on “The Gilded Age” (HBO),  “Law &Order: SVU” (NBC) “Just Beyond” (Disney Plus) “Live from Lincoln Center: Stephen Sondheim's Passion” (PBS) and “First You Dream: the Songs of Kander and Ebb” (PBS) Kate is a 2023 Chicago/Midwest Emmy nominee, alongside partners at HMS Media for creating and producing “Broadway Comes Home,” a love letter to her hometown of Milwaukee. She is a proud advisory board member for Maestra Music, which provides support, visibility and community for the women and non-binary people who make the music in musical theatre. Kate's debut album on PS Classics, “Let's See What Happens” features Lane and Harburg songs from both stage and film. Her second album celebrates the work of lyricist Sheldon Harnick and is titled, “She Loves Him.”   She is a graduate of Shorewood High School in Shorewood, WI and Northwestern University. She lives with her husband and son in Maplewood, NJ. Visit: maestramusic.org Follow Kate: @realkatebaldwin Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Severance star Adam Scott reveals his definition of kindness to Robert Peterpaul during this short and sweet The Art of Kindness archival clip. The Emmy-nominated actor (also in Step Brothers and Parks and Rec) was previously on AOK alongside Kate Mara. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Acclaimed actress Teresa Palmer joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss uplifting others, acts of kindness from Emily Blunt and Ryan Gosling, her new show Mix Tape and more. Teresa Palmer is a globally recognized performer who has been nominated for multiple Best Actress awards, including Critics Choice and many others from her home country in Australia. You'll likely recognize Teresa from her extensive onscreen work, often alongside some of the most acclaimed talents in the industry. She shared the screen with Cate Blanchett and Christian Bale in Knight of Cups. Appeared alongside Andrew Garfield in Mel Gibson's Oscar-nominated film Hacksaw Ridge, with Danielle Radcliffe in December Boys and Adam Sandler and Keri Russel in Bedtime Stories... the list goes on. According to IMDb, some other most popular credits are I Am Number Four,Warm Bodies and Take Me Home Tonight. More recently, you may have spotted Teresa wielding a sword in the SAG Award-winning blockbuster The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, and Hannah Waddingham. And that's not even touching on her TV career, which most recently includes leading the cast of the cult hit A Discovery of Witches. Teresa's TV work continues with The Last Anniversary, an adaptation of Liane Moriarty's book, and the show that brought us together: Mix Tape. Follow Teresa: @teresapalmer Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Wiggles founder Anthony Field joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss his journey teaching kindness with the iconic children's group, being a role model for young audiences, his mental health struggles, having his daughter become a Wiggle and much more! Anthony Field is an Australian musician, actor, songwriter and producer, best known as a founding leader of the children's group the Wiggles. For over three decades, The Wiggles have delighted millions. After Anthony spent two years as a preschool teacher he had the idea to make a children's album. With songs like Hot Potato and Fruit Salad, The Wiggles have been entertaining millions of families across the globe for over 30 years. The band has sold over 30 million albums and DVDs, 8 million books, as well as accumulating over 2 billion music streams and 3 billion views on YouTube. The Wiggles continue their legacy creating new music and performing live shows, entertaining & engaging children around the globe. Fun fact: Anthony loves to play the bagpipes and guitar. He is always ready to whip up a fruit salad, yummy yummy! His favorite color is blue and he loves being a part of the Wiggle Town community. For more on The Wiggles head to thewiggles.com or check out their YouTube channel here. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Netflix's Love on the Spectrum star Tanner Smith and mom Nicci Smith join The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss their journey to reality television, being an example for others affected by autism, and spreading kindness everywhere they go. Happy Random Acts of Kindness day! Tanner Smith is a South Carolina native thriving on the autism spectrum, whose self-proclaimed mission in life is to "Spread Joy All Around the World." Tanner was diagnosed with autism at age 4 and has gone on to complete and graduate from the ClemsonLIFE program at Clemson University, and is currently employed at The Shepherd Hotel in Clemson where he lives independently with roommates. Tanner came into the public eye after appearing on Season 2 of Netflix's Love on the Spectrum, and has captured the hearts of his many followers on social media. Tanner's hope is to be an example of what is possible for others affected by autism and to bring joy and kindness to everyone he encounters, as shown by his signature thumbs up, big smile, and high fives. Tanner also hopes to be a strong advocate for employment for the disabled community, and to show what valuable assets they are in the workforce. Follow Tanner @tannerwiththe_tism https://tanner.meteor.land/ Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer Rachel Bay Jones joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss how her career from Broadway (Dear Evan Hansen) to television (Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage) has been fueled by kindness and so much more. Rachel Bay Jones is an Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning actress best known for originating the role of 'Heidi Hansen' in the Original Broadway Cast of DEAR EVAN HANSEN, and received the aforementioned awards (plus many others) for her performance. Additional Broadway credits include PIPPIN, HAIR and WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN. She also has quite the regional resume and has infused her performance power into the solo album "Showfolk" which can now be purchased on iTunes and Amazon. Rachel also lights up the screen. She has starred in films like "Ben Is Back" opposite Julia Roberts and in "Critical Thinking," directed by and opposite John Leguizamo, and will soon be seen in the independent film "Rise & Shine." Speaking of indies, you can catch Rachel in the indie flick “Bob Trevino Likes It,” this March 21. Jones tv credits include: NBC's "Law & Order: SVU," ABC's "Grey's Anatomy," and "The Family." She's had recurring roles on "The Good Doctor," "The United States of Al," "Panic," "Why Women Kill," "Modern Family,” "God Friended Me,” and, of course, "Young Sheldon”... where her character Audrey McCallister was created. Rachel continues to breathe life into Audrey on the hit spin-off series “Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage,” which premiered this past fall on CBS.  Follow RBJ: @rachelbayjones Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High School Musical icon Corbin Bleu joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss navigating the industry with kindness from tv sets to Broadway stages. The performer gets a starry surprise (spoiler alert) from his DCOM co-star and friend Lucas Grabeel. CORBIN BLEU (Joe Ross) is a versatile actor, singer/songwriter, dancer, voiceover artist and host. Bleu is best known as Chad Danforth in the Emmy-winning HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL franchise. Recently, Bleu starred in the TV movies Love, For Real and A Christmas Dance Reunion and special guest-starred in Seasons 3 and 4 of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series on Disney+. On Broadway, Bleu starred in the Tony-nominated 2019 revival of Kiss Me, Kate at Studio 54, earning a Drama Desk nomination. He headlined as Ted Hanover in Holiday Inn, winning the Chita Rivera Award, and also appeared in Godspell (Jesus) and In the Heights (Usnavi). Additional stage highlights include Hairspray (Seaweed) and Mamma Mia! (Sky) at the Hollywood Bowl. In 2018, he played Don Lockwood in Singin' in the Rain at The Muny and Billy Crocker in Anything Goes at Arena Stage, earning a Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actor. That same year, he was named Entertainer of the Year at the Tremaine National Gala for his contributions to dance. Most recently, Corbin starred as Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors at the Westside Theatre in New York, completing a three-month run with Constance Wu followed by a three-month run with Jinkx Monsoon. Support Our Mom Barbara's Second Cancer Journey LA Fire Resources Follow Corbin: @corbinbleu Follow Lucas: @mrgrabeel Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Corn Puddin! Step inside Schmigadoon! the musical's NYC rehearsals for the Kennedy Center world premiere (running January 31–February 9, 2024) with The Art of Kindness. Join Robert Peterpaul as he talks with stars like Tony-nominee Alex Brightman on translating the show from screen to stage, finding joy in the rehearsal room, kindness tips and more. In this episode, you'll hear from Tony-winning Director and Choreographer Christopher Gattelli, as well as the show's star-studded cast: two-time Tony Award-nominee Alex Brightman (Beetlejuice, Spamalot), Sara Chase (The Great Gatsby, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), Emmy Award® winner and Tony Award® nominee Kevin Del Aguila (Yellow Face, Some Like it Hot), Ann Harada (Cinderella, Avenue Q, who is reprising her role from the Apple Original series), McKenzie Kurtz (The Heart of Rock and Roll, Wicked), Isabelle McCalla (Water for Elephants, The Kennedy Center's Footloose), Javier Muñoz (Hamilton, In the Heights), Tony  Award-nominee Brad Oscar (Something Rotten!, Mrs. Doubtfire), Tony Award-nominee Emily Skinner (Suffs, The Cher Show), and Ryan Vasquez (The Notebook, Hamilton). For more on Schmigadoon!: kennedy-center.org Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another opening night on Broadway! Join The Art of Kindness live from the EUREKA DAY red carpet in December 2024, as Robert Peterpaul chats with all the stars about listening, decision making and, of course, kindness. In this episode, you'll hear from Eureka Day cast members Tony Award nominee Amber Gray (Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, Hadestown), two-time Tony Award nominee Jessica Hecht (Summer, 1976 at MTC, A View from the Bridge), Tony Award winner Bill Irwin (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Largely New York), Emmy Award nominee Thomas Middleditch (“Silicon Valley”), Chelsea Yakura-Kurtz (“Scandal,” “The Flash”) and playwright Jonathan Spector. You'll also hear from VIP guests Michael Cyril Creighton ("Only Murders in the Building") and comedian Sam Morrison. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actress and filmmaker Heather Graham joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss acts of kindness throughout her lengthy career, how her new film Chosen Family helped her learn to keep people pleasing under control, holding unconditional self-love and more. HEATHER GRAHAM discovered her passion for acting at an early age and caught the attention of filmmakers with her breakout role in Gus Van Sant's DRUGSTORE COWBOY, for which she received an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Graham went on to land unforgettable roles in the 1997 classic BOOGIE NIGHTS, for which she received the MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance, in 1999's AUSTIN POWERS: THE SPY WHO SHAGGED ME and in 2009's THE HANGOVER alongside Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifinakis.  Graham has expanded into writing, directing, and producing, proving herself to be a multi-hyphenate leading talent with critically acclaimed, HALF MAGIC, a film she wrote and directed, which was released in theaters and on VOD February 2018. The raunchy, female-driven comedy follows three women set out on a hilarious search for self-fulfillment while overcoming the roadblocks in their personal and professional lives. Graham also executive produced and starred in the feature film CAKE, a romantic comedy also starring Sandra Oh and Cheryl Hines. That self-fulfillment theme, along with a throughline of people pleasing is prevalent in her latest flick - CHOSEN FAMILY. Graham wrote, directed, and starred in the rom-com, which debuted in 2024. This movie is a centerpiece to today's conversation, along with kindness, of course. In addition to more producing, up next, Graham will be featured alongside Nicolas Cage in the Western THE GUNSLINGERS. Follow Heather: @imheathergraham Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary Emmy and Tony-winning performer Judith Light joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul and we couldn't be more excited. The Who's the Boss? lead discusses kindness to others and yourself, life-changing acts of kindness, researching spooky occurrences for her new Apple show BEFORE and more in this heart-lifting conversation. JUDITH LIGHT is known for her extensive body of work onstage, as well as in television and film, recently receiving a star on the Hollywood walk of fame. Her recent projects include Peter Hedge's film The Same Storm, “Julia,” HBO Max's drama series on Julia Child, Starz' horror comedy “Shining Vale” and Searchlight's dark comedy The Menu, alongside Anya Taylor-Joy and Ralph Fiennes. Second seasons of both “Shining Vale” and “Julia” are currently available for streaming. Light starred in The Young Wife and Down Low for FilmNation, both of which premiered at SXSW, and Out of My Mind for Disney+ which premiered at Sundance and can now be streamed on Disney+. Her 2019 film Ms. White Light also premiered at SXSW. She can also be seen in the second season of “American Horror Stories” and Rian Johnson's series “Poker Face” for Peacock, for which she won the Guest Actress in a Comedy Series Primetime Emmy. She currently stars in the Apple TV+ series “Before” alongside Billy Crystal. The full season can now be streamed. Next up, she stars in “The Terror: Devil in Silver” for AMC and Scott Free Productions. Additionally, she is working on a series of producing projects with her production company and Brillstein Creative Partners. Light also co-starred in Ryan Murphy's “Impeachment: American Crime Story” on FX, appeared in Lin Manuel Miranda's film, tick, tick…Boom! for Netflix as well as “The Accidental Wolf,” created by Arian Moyad and now streaming on Topic. In addition to her current projects, Light starred in the anthology series “Manhunt: Deadly Games,” which can currently be found on Netflix, as well as Ryan Murphy's Netflix series “The Politician,” and in the musical finale series of “Transparent,” Amazon Prime's Golden Globe–winning show, created by Joey Soloway, for which Light received a Golden Globe nomination and multiple Emmy and Critics' Choice nominations. Her role in Ryan Murphy's “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story” garnered her an Emmy nomination and Critics Choice nomination.  In 2012 and 2013, Light won two consecutive Tony and Drama Desk awards for her performances in Other Desert Cities and The Assembled Parties; these two performances made her the first actress in nearly two decades to win consecutive Tony Awards. Light also received the 2019 Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award for her extensive philanthropy work. She was also recently awarded the Excellence in Media Award from GLAAD in May 2022. Light sits on the board of directors of the MCC Theater in New York. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WICKED's Broadway Music Director and Conductor Dan Micciche joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss kindness during the long-running theatrical blockbuster, starting out as a history-making performer in CHICAGO, his advice for actors auditioning for WICKED - oh - and, of course - we do touch on his teeny involvement in the WICKED movie! Dan Micciche is the current music director, conductor of WICKED on Broadway and has been with the show for over 10 years - including the national and international tours. He was recently inducted as a member of the Grammy's Recording Academy this year. Prior to WICKED, Dan began his acting career as the youngest actor to play Mary Sunshine in CHICAGO for 2000 performances on Broadway as well as the national tour, Japanese, Alaskan and Thailand companies. He is one of the other performers to sing solo and conduct at The Kennedy Center. His TV / FILM work includes: WICKED (universal), The Tonight Show - with Jimmy Falon, 2021 Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, Good Morning America, Cake Boss. Concert work: Soloist at Carnegie Hall/ The Kennedy Center: Bernstein's MASS. Recordings: Bernstein's MASS (Grammy nom 08')  During 2021, Dan started a company that brings Broadway into your home, company or event.  For more on Dan: danmiccichemusic.com/coaching and broadwayconcerts.com Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wicked movie director Jon M. Chu joins The Art of Kindness podcast with Robert Peterpaul to discuss being a kind leader on set, acts of kindness from Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, his spellbinding memoir Viewfinder and more. Rejoicify - this is a thought-provoking chat filled with STAR-studded surprise guests! Jon M. Chu is known for his visually stunning blockbuster films, as well as his kinetic work across various genres from groundbreaking series to commercials and films. Additionally, his unique storytelling ability has earned him the honor of inclusion on the Hollywood Reporter's Power 100 list as well as Variety's New Hollywood Leaders. Most recently, Chu directed Universal Pictures' critically acclaimed WICKED, starring Oscar-nominated actress Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Part 1 of the feature-film adaptation of the record-breaking musical phenomenon released in theaters on November 22 and quickly became a box-office hit, becoming the highest-grossing Broadway adaption in domestic box office history in its second week earning over $350 million globally. His memoir, Viewfinder, is his journey from growing up in the Silicon Valley to transitioning to Hollywood and helming major studio projects, released Summer 2024. The book is an uplifting tale of belonging, creativity and learning to see who you truly are. His recent projects include the critically acclaimed adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's Tony Award-winning musical IN THE HEIGHTS for Warner Bros. Studios as well as the worldwide phenomenon CRAZY RICH ASIANS, which was nominated for numerous awards, including a SAG Award, a Golden Globe and PGA Award. It is one of the top 10 highest grossing romantic comedies of all time and the highest in a decade. It was also the first contemporary studio picture in more than 25 years to feature an all-Asian cast and opened a new chapter in Asian-American representation in Hollywood. Chu is in post-production on WICKED: PART TWO, which is set to release on November 21, 2025, and is attached to develop to direct the highly anticipated biopic for Britney Spears based on her memoir, The Woman in Me, with Universal. He is also in development on Dr. Seuss' OH, THE PLACES YOU'LL GO! with Warner Bros and JJ Abrams' Bad Robot, which will be his first animated film. His previous films include GI. JOE: RETALIATION, NOW YOU SEE ME 2, JUSTIN BIEBER'S NEVER SAY NEVER and many more representing over 1.3 billion dollars in the worldwide box office. Thank you to Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh and Simon Hayes for the special surprise, and to Welcome to Times Square for supporting our Big Apple dreams. Follow Jon: @jonmchu Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Let us be glad. Let us be grateful. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Acclaimed author and artist Morgan Harper Nichols (All Along You Were Blooming) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss: kindness through artistic spaces, the thoughtfulness of kindness, the kindness of memes and much more. Morgan Harper Nichols is an artist, writer, and creator based in Georgia. Diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder, Morgan's work often explores themes of embracing life's narrative and creating room to breathe. She began creating art and poetry in response to social media messages she received in 2017, and since then, her practice has expanded to include digital art, collage, coding, and 3D environments. Morgan is the creator of the app Storyteller and the online shop Garden24. Her WSJ bestselling book, All Along You Were Blooming, is one of several published works, and she currently serves as Vice President on the board of TWLOHA, a mental health organization. Morgan is passionate about the intersection of art, storytelling, and health, and her long-term goal is to teach and develop resources that explore how we create and interact with narratives in our lives. L Morgan Lee's "Reaching for Help from Drowning" Fundraiser: https://www.gofundme.com/f/reaching-for-help-from-drowning Follow Morgan: @morganharpernichols Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Thanksgiving week, friends! Join The Art of Kindness podcast live from You Gotta Believe's 10th Anniversary Fundraiser in NYC for older foster kids. Host Robert Peterpaul chats with: Emmy-nominee Rosie Perez, Sherri Saum (The Fosters, Locke & Key), Charlene Tilton (Dallas), Kate Reinders (High School Musical the Musical: The Series, Wicked), Tony Award-winner J. Harrison Ghee (Some Like It Hot), meteorologist Janice Huff (NBC 4 New York), Jenna Leigh Green (Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Wicked), Ta'Nika Gibson (Ragtime), Anika Larsen (Almost Famous, Beautiful), and hosts Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley Jackson. You Gotta Believe (YGB) exists for one reason... to work toward the day when no young person leaves foster care without the unconditional lifetime commitment of a family. Our goal is to find youth permanent families so that they have the support system they need to live safely and to their highest potential. You Gotta Believe is a national organization based in New York City that focuses exclusively on finding permanent families for older youth in foster care. Since 1995, YGB has worked tirelessly to ensure that no child ages out of the foster care system without the support, love, and stability of a family. Today, nearly 400,000 children are in foster care in the U.S., with around 20,000 aging out annually. Without the stability of a family, these young people face higher risks of homelessness, unemployment, and other hardships. YGB is committed to changing that reality. Since 1995, YGB has trained thousands of parents, licensed over 750 families, and facilitated nearly 400 adoptions of older youth, offering lifelong support to ensure family permanence. For more: yougottabelieve.org Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Award Winner Marissa Jaret Winokur (Hairspray), Tony Nominee Kerry Butler (Xanadu) and Tony Nominee Laura Bell Bundy (Legally Blonde) celebrate 20 years of broadway hits, motherhood, and lifelong friendship with their new show Mama I'm A Big Girl Now! Join The Art of Kindness podcast LIVE from the red carpet at New World Stages in New York City, as Robert Peterpaul chats with: the aforementioned starry trio, and VIP guests like Andrew Rannells (Book of Mormon), Grammy-winning songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and more. Get your tickets to Mama I'm A Big Girl Now before it dances away! Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pop star Betty Who joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss the kindness of meeting people where they're at, the joy of Britney Spears, acts of kindness from Kylie Minogue, self-love while on tour and more under the kindness umbrella. Thank you for being you, Betty! BETTY WHO: If you need to know anything about Australian-American pop trailblazer Betty Who, it's that she is a survivor. Born Jessica Newham in Sydney, Australia, the classically trained singer, dancer, and multi-instrumentalist has experienced practically every dimension of pop cultural visibility: going viral with her 2014 single "Somebody Loves You," soundtracking Netflix's QUEER EYE reboot with "All Things," forming deep ties with foundations like GLAAD and the Trevor Project and becoming an LGBTQ+ icon due to her infectious, always-inclusive artistry.  Rediscovering her power as an independent artist, Betty Who kicked off her latest, most triumphant chapter on her fourth studio album, Big, which she wrote in its entirety. Betty explores self-love and acceptance on songs like "She Can Dance," the power of female friendship on "I Can Be Your Man," and career perseverance on the joyous "Blow Out My Candle."  Now my theater lovers, you may really know Betty from when she made her Broadway debut as Persephone in the Tony Award-winning show HADESTOWN in 2023. We discuss this, her amazing perspective on kindness in the arts and so much more of course. It's a special conversation! I LOVED hanging with Betty and I hope you enjoy hanging with us both for a little bit. Heineken Open Your World Ad Follow Betty: @bettywho Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy World Kindness Week! Our friends at the phenomenal (and uber kind) nonprofit) kindness.org gave Robert the honor of guest hosting a very special episode of their Why Kindness? podcast. See their show notes below! Guest host Robert Peterpaul (The Art of Kindness) takes the host seat this week to speak with kindness.org CEO & Co-Founder Jaclyn Lindsey, as well as the Kindlab team- Dr. Oliver Scott Curry & Dr. Chloe San Miguel about the org & the science of kindness. Tune in as they introduce a groundbreaking kindness measurement tool (KQ) and engage in a little friendly competition. It's World Kindness Week. Do you know your KQ? Visit kindness.org/KQ to get your KQ today! This podcast is one of the many ways we live out our organization's mission to educate and inspire people to choose kindness. Visit our site kindness.org and sign up to become a part of our global community which spans more than 100 countries. It's free to join and when you do you'll be the first to get access to our latest research, tools, and even episodes of this podcast. Let's build a kinder world, together. Contact us at podcast@kindness.org or on social at @kindnessorg.  Important links from this week's episode: kindness.org kindness.org/kq Credits Host: Robert Peterpaul Guests: Jaclyn Lindsey, Dr. Oliver Scott Curry, Dr. Chloe San Miguel Producer: Melissa Malone Music Composition: Chris Christiana Design: Ben Gibson, Christine Do, Smithfield Studio Transcript available at this link. https://why-kindness.simplecast.com/episodes/team-kindness/transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Young Sheldon star Iain Armitage joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul for our season four premiere! Welcome back and happy World Kindness Week, friends! The actor discusses the curiosity of kindness onset and in life, the legacy of Young Sheldon, working with legends like Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman, and much more in this delightful episode. IAIN ARMITAGE is most recognized for his role as the title character in the hit CBS comedy YOUNG SHELDON, the prequel to THE BIG BANG THEORY which wrapped its 7th and final season in May 2024. He was nominated for a Critic's Choice Award for Lead in a Comedy Series and in 2018 he received a Teen Choice Award nomination for his portrayal in the Breakout TV Star category. Iain first burst onto the scene appearing as Shailene Woodley's son, Ziggy Chapman, in the HBO series and cultural phenomenon, BIG LITTLE LIES. He reprised his role in the second season and was nominated at the SAG awards with the cast for Best Ensemble in 2019.   On film, he has appeared with Jane Fonda and Robert Redford in OUR SOULS AT NIGHT for Netflix, in THE GLASS CASTLE for Lionsgate with Woody Harrelson and opposite JK Simmons and Mandy Moore in independent film IM NOT HERE. Iain can also be heard as the voice of Young Shaggy in Scooby Doo animated feature origin story, SCOOB!, and can be heard as the voice of lead pup Chase in Paramount's animated PAW PATROL feature. A special thank you to the nonprofit Matt's Kindness Ripples On for awarding us their Kindness Grant + Annie Potts for participating in our kindness surprise! Learn more about your KQ at kindness.org. Follow Iain: @iain Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Art of Kindness podcast returns for a positively D-E-L-I-G-H-T-F-U-L bonus episode LIVE from press day in NYC of the Kennedy Center's The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Host Robert Peterpaul talks with the all-star cast, including: Kevin McHale (Glee, American Horror Stories) as William Barfee, Philippe Arroyo (& Juliet, Aladdin) as Chip Tolentino, Alex Joseph Grayson (Parade, Into the Woods), Noah Galvin (Dear Evan Hansen, Booksmart) as Leaf Coneybear, Leana Rae Concepcion (Merrily We Roll Along) as Marcy Park, Beanie Feldstein (Drive-Away Dolls, Booksmart) as Logan Schwartzandgrubenierre, Nina White (Queen of Versailles, Kimberly Akimbo) as Olive Ostrovsky, Taran Killam (Spamalot, Saturday Night Live) as Vice Principal Douglas Panch and Tony Award® winner Bonnie Milligan (Kimberly Akimbo, Encores! Titanic) as Rona Lisa Peretti. Directed and choreographed by Danny Mefford (Kimberly Akimbo, Dear Evan Hansen) with musical direction by Roberto Sinha (New York, New York; Hamilton), Spelling runs at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts from October 11 - 20. Click here for more I-N-F-O! Special shoutout to Broadway Podcast Network sound wizard Sarah Goodman. Hear you soon! Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prolific director Paul Feig (Bridesmaids, A Simple Favor) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul season 3 finale to discuss creating kind environments on set, his hilarious new film Jackpot starring Awkwafina, John Cena and Simu Liu (who surprises him), championing female-driven roles, Bridesmaids the musical and more. Paul Feig is a DGA-winning and Emmy-nominated filmmaker, writer, producer, author, and founder of production company Feigco Entertainment. He most recently served as the director, producer, and co-writer of The School for Good and Evil, which debuted as the #1 film on Netflix in 88 countries worldwide upon release. Up next, Feig directed and produced the action-comedy film Jackpot starring John Cena, Awkwafina and Simu Liu for Amazon MGM Studios, which will be released on August 15, 2024. Additionally, he recently wrapped production on A Simple Favor 2, a sequel to the 2018 thriller of the same name. He has a proven track record of films that have grossed over one billion dollars worldwide including Bridesmaids, Last Christmas, The Heat, Ghostbusters, Spy, and A Simple Favor. Feig created and launched his own award-winning gin brand, Artingstall's., which won Best Gin and Double Gold at the 2019 WSWA competition, and a cocktail book titled “Cocktail Time!” that was released by William Morrow. Follow Paul: @paulfeig Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy winner and Tony-nominee Kevin Del Aguila joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss joining the cast of Little Shop of Horrors, backstage antics, writing children's television with kindness, his viral Some Like It Hot moment and more. Kevin Del Aguila currently plays Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop of Horrors. He received a Tony nomination and a Drama Desk Award for his performance as Osgood in Some Like It Hot on Broadway. Other Broadway credits: Frozen (Oaken), Peter and the Starcatcher (Smee), Rocky (everybody in Philadelphia). Off-Broadway: Love's Labour's Lost (Shakespeare in the Park), Jacques Brel, God Bless You Mr. Rosewater (Encores!). Film/TV: “Peg+Cat,” “Law & Order: SVU,” “Deadbeat” and Disney's Frozen. In his spare time, Kevin is an Emmy-winning TV writer, lyricist for the stage and screen, and book-writer of the musicals Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dog Man, Madagascar and Altar Boyz. Follow Kevin: @kevinoftheeagle Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olympic Gold Medalist Laurie Hernandez joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her self-kindness checklist and much more. This interview was originally recorded in July of 2021. Laurie Hernandez Laurie Hernandez is a two-time Olympic medalist, earning gold and silver at the Olympic Games Rio 2016 as part of the Final Five US women's gymnastics team. During a break from competition, she authored two New York Times bestselling books and dazzled us on 'Dancing with the Stars.' Laurie is also a UNICEF USA Ambassador, advocating for children's rights and well-being. Now a retired gymnast, Laurie serves as a commentator for this year's Olympics, bringing her expertise and insight to the sport she loves. She is a true beacon of light and an inspiration to all.  Follow Laurie: @lauriehernandez Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Noah J. Ricketts joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss playing Nick Carraway in The Great Gatsby with empathy, how an airbnb led to him signing on to Gatsby, kindness vs. niceness and much more. Noah J. Ricketts stars as Frankie in the Golden Globe, SAG and Critics Choice-nominated Showtime series “Fellow Travelers.” Additional TV/Film: “American Gods” (Starz), “High Fidelity” (Hulu); Summoning Sylvia. Broadway: Kristoff in Disney's Frozen, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and of course The Great Gatsby. Off-Broadway: Omar in To My Girls. CCM Graduate. @noahjrkts Follow Noah: @noahjrkts Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony and Grammy Award-winner Jessie Mueller joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her incredible career, how Chita Rivera changed her life with an act of kindness, navigating negative voices in her head when she's recording an album or just in life, and much more. *This episode was originally recorded in July of 2023* Jessie Mueller is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actress and singer. She was last seen on Broadway in Tracy Lett's The Minutes. Other recent credits include the Kennedy Center's Guys & Dolls, The Music Man, Julie Jordan in the Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel (Tony & Grammy nominations, Drama Desk Award), originating the roles of both Jenna in Waitress, for which she received Tony, Drama Desk & Grammy noms, and Carole King in Beautiful - The Carole King Musical, for which she won Tony, Grammy & Drama Desk Awards. I saw her in Waitress and Beautiful and she was well… BEAUTIFUL! She's done concert appearances at Carnegie Hall, Chicago's Lyric Opera, and Jazz at Lincoln Center.   Jessie is also no stranger to shining bright in the Film and Television world. You can watch her in Steven Spielberg's The Post, Madam Secretary, Blue Bloods, Hulu's Candy, and Lifetime's Patsy & Loretta. Like Javier Munoz who was previously on the AOK (go listen if you haven't already), Jessie is in the new musical concept album My Heart Says Go - which you can stream everywhere. Jessie is an Arts Education champion for groups such as Rosie's Theatre Kids (rosiestheaterkids.org) and a long-time supporter of The Entertainment Community Fund (entertainmentcommunity.org) & Broadway Cares Equity Fights Aids (broadwaycares.org). Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy July! Josh Groban and more stars chat with The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul live from the Jimmy Awards. Robert talks advice for dreamers, kindness tips and much more. Guests in this episode include: multi-platinum singer Josh Groban (Sweeney Todd), Back to the Future star Casey Likes, Dear Evan Hansen star Andrew Barth Feldman, Kenny Ortega (High School Musical, Hocus Pocus), Tony-winner James Monroe Iglehart, Telly Leung (Aladdin), Adam J. Levy (Moulin Rouge), Christopher Wheeldon (MJ), Ross Rayburn, Casting Director Stephanie Klapper, Jimmys directors Van Kapplan, Keisha LaLama and Jimmys alum: English Bernhardt (Mean Girls), Stephen Telsey (Harmony), Kendall Becerra, Langston Lee, Lauren Marchand, and Nicholas Barron. We also hear from "Inspiring Teacher" Award winners: Jacqueline McLean, Le Roy Jr. Sr. High School (Rochester, NY) and Paul Fillingim, Ronald Reagan High School (San Antonio, TX). The National High School Musical Theatre Awards® (NHSMTA®) is a celebration of student achievement in high school musical theatre across the country culminating in the annual Jimmy Awards® ceremony.  Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. This episode was edited by Carli Sanger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In celebration of Pride month, join us as we reflect on some poignant moments from past The Art of Kindness podcast episodes. Free yourself to see yourself with stars Javier Muñoz (Hamilton), Nina West (RuPaul's Drag Race), Tony-winner J. Harrison Ghee (Some Like It Hot), TV producer Liz Tigelaar (Little Fires Everywhere), T. Oliver Reid (Hadestown, Black Theatre Coalition), Broadway's Claybourne Elder (Company) and comedian Kalen Allen (The Ellen Show). We hope their stories empower you this month and beyond! Be sure to also check out the amazing work our friends at Born This Way Foundation are up to: https://bornthisway.foundation/ Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. This episode was edited by Carli Sanger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul live from the 2024 Drama Desk Awards at NYU Skirball in New York City. The Drama Desk Awards, recognizing the best of Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off-Broadway, were hosted by Sutton Foster and Aaron Tveit (Sweeney Todd) with Stereophonic emerging as the most-winning production of the season. In this episode you'll hear from stars like Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer (Spamalot), Shaina Taub (Suffs), Corbin Bleu (Little Shop, High School Musical), Brody Grant (The Outsiders), Liam Pearce (How to Dance in Ohio), Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!), the cast and crew of Stereophonic and many more live from the red carpet. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. This episode was edited by Carli Sanger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy dance! Join the Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul live from the red carpet of the 2024 Chita Rivera Awards at the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts in New York City, featuring Broadway legends like Bernadette Peters (ahh!). In this episode, you will hear Robert chat with: Golden Globe winner Debbie Allen (Grey's Anatomy), Norm Lewis, Diana Byer, David Peterson, Joe Laneteri, The Who's Tommy choreographer Lorin Latarro and star Ali Louis Bourzgui, Water for Elephants choreographers Jesse Rob and Shayna Carol, Marina Tamayo, The Outsiders dancer Tilly Evans-Krueger, Suffs choreographer Mayte Natalio, Hell's Kitchen stars Shoshanna Bean, Onyxx Noel and Timothy Edwards, choreographers Rick and Jeff Kuperman, iconic shoe designer Phil LaDuca, and Bernadette Peters, who received the evening's Lifetime Achievement Award. The Chita Rivera Awards is a star-studded annual event, recognizing dance and choreographic excellence on Broadway, Off-Broadway and in film. The evening nurtures an ongoing sense of community by honoring the past, celebrating the present and investing in the future generations. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Suffs star Hannah Cruz joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to talk her Broadway debut, stage fright, self kindness, finding courage in seeing herself in media, a surprise from Jenn Colella and more. Hannah Cruz is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut. Off-Broadway: The Connector (Robin, MCC), Only Gold (Camille, MCC), Suffs (Ruza, The Public). Tour: Hamilton (IRNE Best Actress, Eliza), Bullets over Broadway (Ellen). Regional: The Da Vinci Code (American Premiere, Ogunquit Playhouse, Sophie Neveu) and Young Frankenstein (OP, Inga). Follow Hannah: @thisishannahcruz Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul live from the New Dramatists 2024 luncheon at the New York Marriott Marquis honoring Tony-nominated director Michael Greif (The Notebook, Dear Evan Hansen and Rent to credit a few). All proceeds benefited New Dramatists' resident playwrights and their work. In this order, Broadway star guests talk what makes a great leader, kindness tips and more: Tony-nominated Stereophonic stars Will Brill and Eli Gelb, Tony-nominated Hell's Kitchen Choreographer Camille A. Brown and star Shoshana Bean, The Who's Tommy star Allison Luff, Tony-nominated Appropriate star Corey Stoll, Tony-nominated Suffs star Nikki M. James, Tony-nominated The Outsiders director Danya Taymor and star Brody Grant. Ps. this just so happens to be coming out on my dear sister Julia's birthday - happy birthday! Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway star Jelani Remy joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to talk all things Back to the Future the musical, the joy of a good backstage prank and much more. Jelani Remy is a NJ native and Broadway performer known for shows like Ain't Too Proud The Life and Times of The Temptations and Disney's The Lion King. The talent now lights up Broadway in the blockbuster musical Back to the Future as Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry. His number Gotta Start Somewhere truly stops the show! For tickets and more: www.backtothefuturemusical.com Follow Jelani: @itsjelaniremy Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How I Met Your Father star Francia Raísa joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her life-changing act of kindness to Selena Gomez, paying it forward with her new Modelo partnership and much more. Also, today is Earth Day - please be kind to the earth! FRANCIA RAISA recently starred in the hit Hulu sitcom HOW I MET YOUR FATHER which ran for 2 seasons. As an entrepreneur, Raisa shared her family salsa recipe with the world in partnership with the La Victoria brand which had a limited run before selling out in Fall of 2023. She can also be seen as ‘Ana Torres,' a first-generation Cuban-American and roommate to Yara Shahidi's ‘Zoey Johnson,' on Freeform's GROWN-ISH, the BLACK-ISH spinoff. Francia has come a long way from her first role as young cheerleader ‘Leti' in the film BRING IT ON: ALL OR NOTHING. Continuing the development of her acting prowess in projects such as THE SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER and Netflix's DEAR WHITE PEOPLE, she's been primed to tackle all that is ahead of her. In between roles that have won her awards such as a Gracie Award and La Femme Film Festival Rising Star, and nominations for Teen Choice, IMAGEN and an ALMA, Raisa is dedicated to assisting organizations dear to her heart like Unlikely Heroes, whose mission is to provide safe homes and restoration to victims of sex trafficking worldwide. Born and raised in Southern California, bi-lingual Raisa is of Honduran and Mexican decent. Modelo has partnered with Francia to celebrate the launch and expansion of Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas, a line of vibrant, spiked, flavored malt beverages expanding to new markets across the country – and for the second year in a row, Modelo pays homage to the street vendors that helped inspire it and keep the beloved Mexican street drink tradition alive.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sherz shares! Sherz Aletaha joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul on the day of the 2024 Solar Eclipse to talk all things making her Broadway debut in Merrily We Roll Along, meeting Meryl Streep, bringing her authentic self to every role and more. Sherz, which is pronounced like “more than one Cher,” is an Iranian American actor, singer, and vocal coach. Originally from Southern California, Sherz is based in Manhattan and is currently appearing in the hit Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth's Merrily We Roll Along alongside Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez. She has been seen on stage at The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Ars Nova, as Lalume in Kismet (directed by Lonny Price for the Santa Barbara Symphony), Aldonza in Man of La Mancha (Triad Stage), in Archetypes (Prospect Theater Company), Spring Alive (Dixon Place, cast album available) and the 2022 Off Broadway revival of Merrily We Roll Along (NYTW). She is frequently seen in concerts around New York City and is often part of readings and workshops of new and developing works at theater companies like Playwrights Horizon, The York, and Musical Theatre Factory. As a voice over artist, she has recorded work for Netflix and Age of Learning among others. Her on-camera work includes appearances on "Powerbook III: Raising Kanan," “The Detour,” “The First Wives Club,” “Three Trembling Cities,” “Wing Women,” "Insomnia," and numerous commercials. Follow Sherz: @morethanonecher Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway star Chilina Kennedy joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss playing Carole King in Beautiful, acts of kindness throughout her life, her new Off-Broadway show A Sign of the Times and more. CHILINA KENNEDY most recently played Billie Jean King in Love All by Anna Deavere Smith. Broadway: Paradise Square, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Film/TV: “The 2015 Kennedy Center Honors,” With Me. Other: The Band's Visit (International Tour), This Ain't No Disco (Atlantic Theater Company), Mamma Mia! (1st National Tour), A Gentleman's Guide To Love And Murder. Chilina is the composer of the new musicals Wild About You and Silk, and is Artistic Producer of Eclipse Theatre Company. chilinakennedy.com A SIGN OF THE TIMES is a totally original story with such classic songs as “Downtown,” “Gimme Some Lovin',” “Rescue Me,” and “I Know A Place,” plus dozens more, A SIGN OF THE TIMES explodes with the music you love and the spirit that shaped a generation—and our own. For tickets and more info: asignofthetimes.com. Follow Chilina: @chilinakennedy Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mean Girls icon Jonathan Bennett joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to chat following your dreams no matter what, getting out of your own way, jumping into Spamalot on Broadway and more. This isn't an April Fool's joke! Jonathan Bennett skyrocketed to fame after playing heartthrob Aaron Samuels in "Mean Girls." The GLAAD Award winner and five-time nominee broke new ground at Hallmark Channel starring in and executive producing “The Holiday Sitter,” the network's first gay-led romantic comedy. Fans have dubbed him “The Gay King of Christmas,” for his many hit holiday movies on the network including “The Christmas House” franchise and most recently, “Christmas on Cherry Lane.” The talented actor also hosts the ratings powerhouses “Halloween Wars” and “Cake Wars” on Food Network, “Times Square New Year's Eve,” and “Battle of the Decades” on Discovery Plus. His work to bring more LGBTQ+ storylines to television and movies earned him the Equality Visibility Award. Other fan-favorite roles include taking on the iconic character Van Wilder in National Lampoon's Van Wilder: Freshman Year, as Steve Martin's antagonistic son-in-law in Cheaper By the Dozen 2, and roles on popular shows such as “Station 19,” “Law & Order: SVU,” “Fantasy Island,” and more. Get tickets to Spamalot and more at spamalotthemusical.com. Follow Jonathan: @jonathandbennett Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

World-renowned Opera Singer Sharon Azrieli joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss giving back to arts education, amplifying the Jewish community and more under the kindness sun. Sharon Azrieli is a philanthropist and award-winning opera singer. Born in Montreal, Sharon's voice has soared around the world, gracing Carnegie Hall, the Metropolitan Opera, and the Opéra Bastille de Paris, to name a few. She's recorded a string of albums, including her latest Secret Places: A Tribute to Michel LeGrand. Most importantly, Sharon is a passionate philanthropist for arts education. She sits on the boards of several organizations, including the Azrieli Foundation for which she created the Azrieli Music Prize to celebrate rising stars in music.  Speaking of, the Azrieli Music Prizes, Sharon and the AMP are celebrating a decade of championing exceptional music creation in NYC with a very special concert. See Sharon shine alongside world-renowned talent on Thursday, March 28th at 7:30 PM in the Starr Theater of Alice Tully Hall, which is at the iconic Lincoln Center. More on Sharon: sharonazrieli.com Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode Alert! Podcast history is being made - this is the first ever crossover episode event featuring Robert Peterpaul host of The Art of Kindness Podcast and Samantha Tuozzolo, co-host of Survival Jobs: A Podcast. Samantha and Robert are live on the opening night red carpet of The Notebook on Broadway asking cast, creative and attendees all about survival jobs and being kind!  This bonus episode features interviews with the stars and production team of the show including Ingrid Michaelson, Bekah Brunstetter, Joy Woods, Ryan Vasquez, Maryann Plunkett, Dorian Harewood, Jordan Tyson, John Cardoza, and Andrea Burns to name a few. Plus we chat with attendees including the man who started it all, Nicholas Sparks.  The Notebook is a new musical based on the best selling novel that inspired the iconic film. Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart, in a deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love. The Notebook is directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT, Spring Awakening) and Schele Williams (The Wiz, Aida) and features music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, book by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC's This Is Us), and choreography by Katie Spelman. Buy tickets to the show here!  Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul @survivaljobspod/ @sammytutz/ @jasonacoombs Support the shows! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) (www.buymeacoffee.com/SurvivalJobsPod) Episode editor: Carli Sanger Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Award winner J. Harrison Ghee joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss their transformative Some Like It Hot journey, taking intentional time to rest and more. J. HARRISON GHEE won the 2023 Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical, making history as the first non-binary actor to be nominated and win in this category for their role as “Daphne/Jerry” in SOME LIKE IT HOT, a role which also garnered them Grammy, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards, as well as Drama League and Chita Rivera Award nominations. Ghee was selected by Billy Porter to star as “Robyn/Kevin” on the hit FOX series ACCUSED, and previously played the series regular of “Kwame” on Netflix's RAISING DION. On Broadway, they starred as “Lola” in KINKY BOOTS, created the role of “Andre Mayhem” in MRS. DOUBTFIRE, and have dazzled audiences in roles such as “Velma Kelly” in CHICAGO and “Johnny Hooker” in THE STING, opposite Harry Connick, Jr.  To learn more about Maestra Music and get tickets to their Amplify 2024 event, please visit: maestramusic.org/amplify/ Follow J: @jharrisonghee Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Performer Jasmine Amy Rogers joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss bringing icon Betty Boop to life onstage in Boop! The Musical, battling imposter syndrome, amplifying historically underrepresented voices and more this women's history month. Jasmine Amy Rogers (she/her) recently finished a run as the titular role of “Betty Boop” in the World Premiere of BOOP! THE MUSICAL at Chicago's CIBC Theatre, directed by Jerry Mitchell. Prior to that she was seen as “Gretchen Wieners” in the First National Tour of MEAN GIRLS, “Melody Green” in Paper Mill Playhouse's production of THE WANDERER, and as “Francis Bassey” in the world premiere of BECOMING NANCY, also directed by Jerry Mitchell, at the Alliance Theatre. On television she has appeared in EVIL on Paramount+. To learn more about Maestra Music's Amplify 2024 and get tickets, please visit: maestramusic.org/amplify/ Follow Jasmine: @jasmine_amy_r Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway performer John Cardoza joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss playing young Noah in The Notebook the Musical and more. John Cardoza returns to Broadway with The Notebook, after originating Younger Noah in its world premiere production in Chicago. John starred as Christian in the National Tour of Moulin Rouge! The Musical and made his Broadway debut in the original cast of Alanis Morissette's Jagged Little Pill. He received his BFA in Musical Theatre from the Boston Conservatory of Music. Follow John: @johnfcardoza Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Portuguese superstar Fado singer Carminho joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her work on the Oscar-nominated film Poor Things with Emma Stone, the art of fado singing, kindness around the world and more. Carminho is a Portuguese superstar fado singer. Daughter of fado legend Teresa Siqueira, Carminho was immersed in music from a young age. Despite early interest in fado, she pursued a degree in marketing and traveled the world, returning with a newfound commitment to music. Her 2009 debut album "Fado" achieved platinum status and international recognition. Carminho has since released several critically acclaimed albums, most recently including "Portuguesa," which received a Latin Grammy nomination. Her captivating performances and deft storytelling has solidified her as the fado singer of her generation. In 2023, Carminho's trajectory continued to soar. She performed for the Pope, joined Coldplay onstage and had a cameo role in the Oscar-nominated film "Poor Things” starring Emma Stone.  Follow Carminho: @carminho Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway power couple Annaleigh Ashford and Joe Tapper join The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss teaching kindness and empathy to their son, overcoming shame, self-care in the theatre and their seminal show The White Chip. ANNALEIGH ASHFORD is making her producing debut with The White Chip and believes in supporting plays that provide an act of service to the community. As an actor she has received a Tony, two Drama Desks, the Drama League, an Outer Critics Circle and Clarence Derwent Awards, Emmy and Grammy nominations. Broadway: Sweeney Todd, Sunday in the Park with George, You Can't Take It With You, Sylvia, Kinky Boots, Hair, Legally Blonde, Wicked. Select TV: “American Crime Story,” “Welcome to Chippendales,” “B Positive,” “Masters of Sex.” She will soon begin production on the true crime drama series “Happy Face” for Paramount+, and will next star in Searchlight Pictures' horror thriller, DUST, opposite Sarah Paulson and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. JOE TAPPER stars in The White Chip. Broadway: You Can't Take It With You. Off Broadway: Manahatta, Socrates, Henry V (The Public Theater); The White Chip (59E59); A Midsummer Night's Dream (Delacorte Theater); Gym at Judson; Cherry Lane Theatre; Mabou Mines/La MaMa. Regional: Shakespeare & Co., Berkshire Playwrights Lab, Huntington Theatre Company, Pioneer Theatre, Yale Repertory Theatre. TV: “Chicago Med,” “Blue Bloods,” “Masters of Sex,” “Odyssey,” “Brooklyn Taxi,” “Law & Order: SVU.” Training: Ithaca College BFA, Yale School of Drama MFA. Get tickets to The White Chip at whitechipplay.com. Recover Together at recovertogether.withgoogle.com. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Isha Blaaker joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss his impactful new film Origin (based on Isabel Wilkerson's acclaimed book Caste), working with Ava DuVernay and more. Isha Blaaker is an actor and model who was raised in the Netherlands. He broke into the entertainment industry as a model, starring in major international luxury brand campaigns for Hugo Boss, L'Oreal, Ralph Lauren, and an Estée Lauder to name just a few. As he became more known in the fashion world, he developed a love for a different art - acting. After making his mark on screen in Fear the Walking Dead and Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming, Isha booked the incredibly important film we are here to spotlight today: Ava DuVernay's Origin. Isha plays real-life trailblazing anthropologist Dr. Allison Davis in the sprawling drama, exploring the notion of caste in America. His character embarks on a landmark journey with his wife, portrayed by Jasmine Cephas Jones, from the segregated U.S. South to Nazi-era Berlin. Follow Isha: @ishablaaker Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stars Laura Benanti, Shoshanna Bean, BeBe Winans and more joined The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul podcast to give you an audio pep talk and discuss the importance of building change this Black History Month. Join us live from Black Theatre Coalition's inaugural gala honoring the National Black Theatre at the Rainbow Room in New York City. Hear from: BTC co-founder Warren Adams, Chadwick Boseman's brother Kevin Boseman, Tony-winner Laura Benanti, Hell's Kitchen star Shoshanna Bean, Grammy-winner BeBe Winans, performer Anthony Wayne, Public Theatre's Alexa Smith, Broadway Stage Manager Cody Renard Richard and Jaja's African Hair Braiding director Whitney White. Learn more about the Black Theatre Coalition: blacktheatrecoalition.org Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Acclaimed choreographer and dance Alonzo King joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss the power of stillness, how everyone can tap into their own creativity and much more. Alonzo King is a dancer, choreographer, teacher and true thought leader. Born in Georgia to civil rights activists and now thriving in San Francisco, Alonzo remains a beacon of artistic innovation and social consciousness, especially in the world. Founding Alonzo King LINES Ballet in 1982 and the San Francisco Dance Center in 1989, he has tirelessly championed the transformative potential of movement, believing that dance is a universal language capable of fostering human connection. With his choreography, King seamlessly blends classical technique with contemporary vision, captivating audiences with works that delve deep into the human experience. His impact extends globally, as his artistry enriches the repertoires of prestigious dance companies around the world. Recognized with accolades such as the Kennedy Center Master of Choreography and the Dance Magazine Award, he holds Honorary Doctorate Degrees from The Juilliard School, California Institute of the Arts, and Dominican University of California. Learn more about Alonzo King LINES Ballet: linesballet.org Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway star Caesar Samayoa (Come From Away) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss his heart-lifting new show How to Dance in Ohio, self care on Broadway and much more under the kindness sun. Caesar Samayoa is a performer who's been seen in the original broadway companies of Come From Away (Kevin J./Ali), Sister Act (Pablo), The Pee-wee Herman Show and now, How to Dance in Ohio (Dr. Emilio Amigo). Off-Broadway/Regional credits include: Evita (Perón, A.R.T./STC); Los Otros (Carlos, A.R.T./New York); Love's Labour's Lost (Don Armado, The Delacorte Theater); Bernstein's Mass (Carnegie Hall); Yale Rep, La Jolla Playhouse, Goodspeed Musicals, Tectonic Theater Project, Seattle Rep. Film/TV credits: Come From Away (Apple TV+); “Ray Donovan” (Showtime), “The Blacklist” (NBC). Awards: HOLA José Ferrer Tespis Award. Follow Caesar: @caesarsamayoa Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices