Theater Life Uncensored

Welcome to Season 2 of Theater Life Uncensored!In this first episode, you'll get an exclusive sneak peek into what's coming up this season! I'll also share some exciting stats about the show—it's been an exciting journey thus far!But that's not all!It's been a strange time in our industry the past couple of years, and a lot has changed. The old ways of having a sustainable career no longer work.So I'm going to give you two pieces of advice of how to forge ahead and ensure you always have money coming in from your art, even during pandemics, strikes, or whatever else comes your way!Let's dive into this season!Episode Highlights:[01:00] Exciting Updates Since Last Season[04:21] New for This Season[12:16] What We've Learned From the Past Few Years[14:44] Advice for a New Era[23:43] Reduce Your Overwhelm and Save Money/TimeFor detailed show notes, please visit: JimCooney.me/new-eraTo help support the show, leave a tip at: JimCooney.me/podcast-tipReady for a career and life you love? Check out Amplified Artists!Download Your FREE Dream Career Blueprint: JimCooney.me/blueprintWant free tips and strategies each week? Join my mailing list!Connect with Me: Web - JimCooney.me Instagram - @JimCooneyNYCLike this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

Since it's the final episode of the first season of Theater Life Uncensored, we're going to do something special. I'm going to turn the tables and ask myself the same questions I've been asking my guests all season. You'll learn how I incorporate all of the strategies we've been discussing this season into my own career and life, some of the successes and stats of the podcast, and what's coming up next season. Episode Highlights: [00:24] Turning the Tables on Me [02:51] Some Things That Surprised Me This Season [04:20] Becoming the Official Podcast of the I Am Dance Competition [06:58] The Questions I've Asked My Guests This Season [07:22] Who Am I as an Artist? [09:25] Clarity Leads to Confidence [10:24] I Choose To Invest in Myself [14:08] Saving Money Doesn't Mean Cutting Out Things You Love To Do [15:41] Just Start Now (You Can't Change the Past) [17:08] Tying It All Together [18:23] What's Next for Season Two Mentioned in This Episode: https://jimcooney.me/imposter-syndrome/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (How To Get Rid of Your Imposter Syndrome) Podcast Episode https://www.iamdancecomp.com (I Am Dance Competition) Freeing Your Finances & Taxes for Artists (Courses Included Free in https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/asked-and-answered/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/asked-and-answered) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

If you want to learn how you can stay creatively fulfilled and carve out a career that's custom to your unique skill set, then this conversation with Rebecca Magazine is for you. When you double down on the aspects of your career that you're best at, people will keep wanting to work with you, which means you will stay booked.  Rebecca has some incredible wisdom to share from her work in several areas of our industry, including dance, opera, musical theater, circus, and even immersive theater. Not only does she perform in these areas, but she also creates within them too. In this episode, we talk about how to stop doing all the things, why you should only work with people you truly vibe with, and how to cultivate confidence by being true to yourself. Episode Highlights: [05:36] Getting involved in the world of circus [12:32] Try new things even if you're scared-you'll learn so much about yourself [15:58] Dealing with the emotions of "giving up" on a goal to pursue something else [20:50] Extra skillsets always benefit you, especially financially, but you have to find balance in how you represent yourself [24:52] The importance of your reputation [30:23] Working for only the people you WANT to work with [34:06] The process of creating new things (which means new opportunities for you) [42:38] Why you need support from the community around you [47:23] Confidence comes from being you, not trying to be like everyone else [51:16] Be human in your relationships instead of angling for how it will benefit your career Connect with Rebecca Magazine: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamagazine/ (@RebeccaMagazine) Web - https://www.rebeccamagazine.com (www.RebeccaMagazine.com) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/custom-career/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/custom-career) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

Reels are an important tool to help you book work. The only job it has is to convince people to hire you by instilling feelings of excitement and trust.  Not only should they have complete confidence in hiring you as a result of watching your reel, but they should feel like it would be a mistake NOT to hire you. Anything you do to get in the way of that works against you. So, in order to not sabotage yourself, we're going to look at the five things you need to avoid doing in your reels. Episode Highlights: [00:57] Reels vs. Auditions [02:31] 1. Missing Contact Info [03:53] 2. Not Being the Star of Your Reel [05:15] 3. Using Copyrighted Music [06:20] 4. Using Video Effects [06:57] 5. Making It Too Long [08:54] Get Help With Your Reel Mentioned in This Episode: Acing Your Submission Videos & Reels Spotlight Session: Reels Submission Video & Reel Formats Cheatsheet ^ All of these are instantly available with your https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists) membership. For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/best-reels-practices/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/best-reels-practices) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

We're going behind the scenes with Laura Pierpont, creator of Cut Dancers of NY. This dance company focuses on creating videos that feature dancers who are not currently booked, so they can continue working on their craft, get footage, and be a part of a community. Laura is also a performer, choreographer, and works for a biohacking gym. So for any of you who do multiple things, you're gonna get a lot out of hearing how Laura aligns all the things that she does into one lane so that she can make smart decisions with her time. We also talk about what ultimate career fulfillment looks like, how taking a leap will always serve you, and why changing your mindset around money will help you invest in yourself. Episode Highlights: [03:45] The mission of Cut Dancers of NY [05:16] Claiming the label of what you do [07:49] Don't be afraid to just ask [08:45] Managing your time between performing and running Cut Dancers of NY [11:23] What does ultimate career fulfillment look like to you? [16:00] Finding funding for your projects [18:38] How it helps to have someone sponsor you [22:38] Changing your mindset about money [25:30] Trusting yourself to take a leap [27:16] Biohacking your fitness [29:42] Align all the things you do so you can make smart decisions [32:57] What Laura thinks would make our industry better Mentioned in This Episode: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/scholarships/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Apply for a Scholarship to Amplified Artists) https://www.amplifiedartists.life/sponsor/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Sponsor an Artist for Amplified Artists) Connect with Laura Pierpont and Cut Dancers of NY: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/laurapierpont92/ (@LauraPierpont92) and https://www.instagram.com/cutdancersofny/ (@CutDancersOfNY) Web - https://www.laurapierpont.com (www.LauraPierpont.com) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/laura-pierpont/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/laura-pierpont) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? If so, you're not alone. Imposter syndrome is very common among performing artists, and left unchecked, will quickly kill your confidence. Whether you feel like a fraud, or like you're not good enough at what you do, it's important to fully eliminate it. Let's talk about three strategies you can use to completely get rid of your imposter syndrome, so you can have superhero confidence and reach your full potential. Episode Highlights: [00:59] How Many People Feel Like an Imposter? [02:32] Imagine Your Life Without Imposter Syndrome [04:06] Strategy #1: Your Feelings Are Not Facts [06:00] Strategy #2: Crystal Clear Clarity on Who You Are [09:24] Strategy #3: Always Have Community [10:54] The Best Type of Community [11:43] The Amplified Artists Community Episode Links: https://JimCooney.me/branding-pitfalls/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast-show-notes-how-to-get-rid-of-your-imposter-syndrome (The 3 Biggest Pitfalls with Your Branding Podcast Episode) https://www.amplifiedartists.life/content/aligning-your-artistry/?utm_source=podcast-show-notes-how-to-get-rid-of-your-imposter-syndrome (Aligning Your Artistry Course in Amplified Artists) https://www.amplifiedartists.life/content/branding-to-book/?utm_source=podcast-show-notes-stop-saying-youre-a-starving-artist (Branding to Book Course in Amplified Artists) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/imposter-syndrome/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/imposter-syndrome) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

You may recognize Alphonse Gonzales from season 20 of American Idol, which aired in the spring of 2022. However, when I invited him to be a guest on my podcast, I had no idea he was going to be on the show. He had to keep that under wraps due to his contract. But by the time we recorded this, it was in the middle of that season. So, American Idol was not the reason I brought Alphonse on for this conversation. I wanted to talk to him about his journey toward taking charge of his mental health. After seeing how this not only affected his personal life, but also his career trajectory, it became even more important to remove the stigma around talking about mental health and just normalize it. The other reason I wanted to chat with Alphonse is because of his work with the National Asian Artists Project. I love what they're doing and wanted to help bring more awareness to it. Episode Highlights: [03:55] Getting on American Idol [06:41] How important social media is [10:14] Balancing being an artist and the business side of it [11:48] Working with National Asian Artists Project [14:41] Our industry says representation matters, but are they doing the work to make that happen? [20:51] Not seeing stories of people who look like you while growing up or going through college [25:36] Taking charge of your mental health [34:53] What else could make our industry better, safer, and more inclusive? [39:07] What it means to have someone sponsor you financially and believe in you [44:34] Accepting any opportunity doesn't mean you're taking it away from someone else [47:28] What's next for Alphonse Mentioned in This Episode: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/scholarships/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Apply for a Scholarship to Amplified Artists) https://www.amplifiedartists.life/sponsor/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Sponsor an artists for Amplified Artists) Connect with Alphonse Gonzales: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yeeitsalphonse/ (@yeeitsalphonse) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/mental-health/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/mental-health) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

We're looking at the three biggest pitfalls you should avoid when it comes to your branding in this episode. And of course we talk about what to do instead.  These three things are what makes the difference between a brand that's just nice to look at and one that actually books you work.  The whole point of branding is to book you more work, so it's crucial you don't fall prey to these very common pitfalls. Episode Highlights: [01:54] Pitfall #1: "Inventing" Your Brand [04:05] Pitfall #2: Forgetting the Purpose of Branding [06:32] Pitfall #3: Trying To Appeal to Everyone [10:46] An Example [11:46] Getting Help With Your Branding Episode Links: https://jimcooney.me/biggest-branding-mistake/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (The #1 Mistake People Make With Their Branding) (Blog Post) https://www.amplifiedartists.life/content/branding-to-book/?utm_source=podcast-show-notes-stop-saying-youre-a-starving-artist (Branding to Book Course in Amplified Artists) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/branding-pitfalls/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding-pitfalls) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

Creating something from scratch can be really scary. It's very daunting to trust yourself and take that very first step. But you get so much more say in your life and career when you carve out opportunities for yourself. The rewards far outweigh the risk. Maggie Sposato has created something really special called Unique Movers. It's a nonprofit that creates and hosts inclusive dance programs for individuals of all abilities. She's learned a lot about creating something from scratch, and she shares so many gems about combining all the things you do to create opportunities for yourself and for others. Our conversation will inspire you to start creating your own opportunities right now and help you overcome the fears and insecurities that pop up along the way. Episode Highlights: 05:10 Artists are great at so many different things 07:13 The history of Unique Movers 14:28 Slowing down and connectng with who you are as an artist 18:15 Listening to your heart instead of giving in to "shiny objects" 20:28 Knowing you can always change your mind 23:46 Social media and cameras in dance class changed how we train 26:18 Creating opportunites for yourself 28:16 You learn more by doing than thinking 31:21 It doesn't have to be perfect (and it won't be anyway) 33:27 Marrying all of the things you do 36:23 Getting funded for Unique Movers 39:44 Don't be afraid to ask for help 42:43 Sharing gratitude and compliments Connect with Maggie Sposato and Unique Movers Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/maggiesposato/ (@MaggieSposato) and https://www.instagram.com/uniquemoversdance/ (@UniqueMoversDance) Web - https://www.uniquemoversdance.com (UniqueMoversDance.com) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/create-opportunities/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/create-opportunities) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

There are four things your website needs to have if you work in the performing arts. These are universal and help convince people to hire you. It gives them the needed trust, comfort, and excitement to feel like they're making the right decision. Episode Highlights: 00:55 Why Websites Are the Best Way To Book Work 02:51 Four Things Your Website Must Have 03:12 Your Name and Headshot/Photo 05:06 Your Resume (Strategically) 06:22 Showcase of Your Work, Positioned for the Jobs You Want 07:26 Contact Info (Again, Strategically) 08:45 Bonus Tip: No Contact Forms 10:06 How to Easily Build an Irresistible Website Mentioned in This Episode: Irresistible Websites Made Easy Course Website Planning & Building Checklist Website Audit & Tune-Up Checklist ^ All of these are instantly available with your https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists) membership. For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/website-needs/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/website-needs) Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

A lot of people make excuses for why they aren't where they want to be in life. And I'm not saying that the facts of the circumstances aren't real, but it's what you DO with those facts and given circumstances that truly matters. My guest today, David H. Parker, is so inspiring, because no matter what they face, they continue to see their greatness. This gives them the confidence to conquer anything. So whatever you're dealing with in your life, and whatever the circumstances may be, I hope listening to this interview lights a spark inside you to go out there and claim what's yours. Note: Since this episode was recorded and produced, David has switched to using They/Them pronouns. Episode Highlights: 05:54 Doing multiple things helps you; it's not a distraction 08:47 What led David to directing 13:42 Growing up poor 15:27 Fighting imposter syndrome, especially at a young age 26:19 Hardships create opportunities 28:17 Being confident in who you are 31:53 Creating theatre about Black and queer joy 38:29 Winning five KCACTF awards 43:10 The best art comes from being uncomfortable 45:31 Accepting help from others 50:27 What David has planned for the future Connect with David H. Parker Web - https://davidhparker.us (DavidHParker.us) Linktree - https://linktr.ee/DavidHParker (Linktr.ee/DavidHParker) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/davidhparker_/ (@DavidHParker_) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/be-great/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/be-great) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Apply for a Scholarship to Amplified Artists: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/scholarships/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (AmplifiedArtists.life/scholarships) Sponsor an artists for Amplified Artists: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/sponsor/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (AmplifiedArtists.life/sponsor) Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

The idea of being a starving artist is a myth. It's simply not true. In fact, it's MORE than a myth. It's a harmful belief that diminishes so much of your value in so many ways. So that's why it's so important we break you free of this mindset on today's episode. Episode Highlights: 02:11 How a Starving Artist Mentality Diminishes Your Value 02:55 The Numbers Show You Are NOT a Starving Artist 04:25 Average Salaries in the US 05:32 What Salary Amount is Considered "Starving"? 06:18 Comparing Average Salaries to Ours 08:05 The Additional Money We Make Beyond Just Our Salaries 08:49 Why We Feel Like We're "Starving" 10:39 How to Not Feel "Starving" Episode Links: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/content/freeing-your-finances/?utm_source=podcast-show-notes-stop-saying-youre-a-starving-artist (Freeing Your Finances Course in Amplified Artists) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/no-starving-artist/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/no-starving-artist) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

If you've ever wanted to expand your skillset and get paid for other things you do or make the transition from one area of our industry to another, this episode is for you. My guest today is Michael van Doorn, and he wanted to jump from performing to choreography, but he was really nervous about it. He shares how he built up the courage to release his very first piece of choreography and the surprising results that he. We chat about how we are often our biggest roadblocks—our fears, doubts, insecurities, imposter syndrome, and whatever else are often bigger than the things that are actual hurdles in our career. Michael, or Mickey as he goes by casually, also works all over the world, and he shares some really great tips for working overseas, too. After listening to our conversation, I think you'll feel really inspired to take control of the direction of your career. And this goes beyond just transitioning from one area of our industry to another. We put these roadblocks up all the time, but since we are the ones who are putting the roadblocks up, we are also the ones who can take them down. Episode Highlights: 00:54 Introducing Michael 04:29 How did you accomplish working all over the world? 08:30 There's no right or wrong way to do this career 11:29 What you need to keep track of to work around the world 16:07 Is it REALLY just being in the right place at the right time? 20:12 Making the transition from performer to choreographer 2 8:51 How Michael got 2,000 views on his choreography in 24 hours 31:05 Knowing how to sell yourself 32:36 Thinking about your art from a holistic viewpoint 38:35 Dealing with a career collapse in 2021 41:42 What does your life as choreographer look like today 48:40 Standing up for yourself in a toxic work environment 50:00 What would make our industry better? Connect with Michael van Doorn Web - https://www.michaelvandoorncreative.com/ (MichaelvanDoornCreative.com) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michaelstanvan/ (@MichaelStanVan) For detailed show notes, please visit: https://www.JimCooney.me/career-trajectory/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/career-trajectory) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet: https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC) Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)

This is a very quick bonus episode giving you a preview of what's coming up this season on Theater Life Uncensored. You'll hear brief excerpts from some of the conversations I have with artists from different areas of our industry. If ya like what you hear, subscribe to the show so you don't miss any of these episodes! And then please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”) For more info, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/season-one-preview/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/season-one-preview) Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Connect with Me: Web - https://JimCooney.me/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jimcooneynyc/ (@JimCooneyNYC)

Are you absolutely clear on who you are as an artist? Do you know what precisely you offer and how you uniquely do it? Are you absolutely certain about the specific value you would add to your dream gigs? If not, how do you expect the people hiring you to know those things? YOU have to be clear if you want THEM to be clear. Otherwise, they'll make their own assumptions—wouldn't you rather control the narrative? Let's make it easier for you to get hired by getting clear on who you are as an artist and what you offer. This also means you get to work smarter, not harder, too. Episode Links: https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_term=aligning-your-artistry (Aligning Your Artistry Course in Amplified Artists) Free Video/Worksheet on my blog (JimCooney.me/clarity) Episode Highlights: 03:15 How do you get clear on who you are, especially if you do mulptile things? 05:08 Free exercise, video, and worksheet on my blog to help 06:36 The benefits of artistic clarity For detailed show notes, please visit: https://JimCooney.me/clarity/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/clarity) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”) Mentioned in this episode: Win ONE FREE YEAR of Amplified Artists! We're doing a giveaway contest to celebrate the launch of Theater Life Uncensored! You can win an ENTIRE FREE YEAR of Amplified Artists, including full and unlimited access to all of our courses, workshops, events, town halls, Q&A Calls, and over $1200 worth of industry discounts for an entire year. All you have to do is: 1. Take a quick selfie of you listening to the podcast, or even a screenshot of the podcast itself 2. Post it on social media with the hashtag #TheaterLifeUncensored 3. Tag me @JimCooneyNYC I'll reshare it on my feed to give YOUR feed some love and you'll be entered in the drawing for one entire free year of Amplified Artists. We're running this contest through July 31, which means you can do this for each episode until then and increase your chance to win! Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet How do you create your brand? How do you make your brand stand out so people want to hire you? I've got you! I put together a FREE guide and worksheet walking you through a 3-part formula that clarifies your brand. Grab it for free at https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding)

If you're going to be on social media anyway, why not get paid for it? Guess what? You don't even need a big following! My guest today, Viveca Chow, went from hating social media (and even deleting her accounts) to now loving it...and getting PAID for it! She shares her best tips on how you can get paid, too! Plus, despite having credits on Broadway and Netflix, her social media doesn't focus on her performing at all. She posts what she WANTS to post, not what she feels like she "should". Viveca gives you the full scoop on all of this, and also talks about her journey coming from Hong Kong to live/work in the US. She breaks down the different kinds of artist visas and costs involved. There's so much gold in this episode. I'm excited for you to take a listen! Episode Highlights: 01:12 Introducing Viveca 05:56 What made you decide to start being a social media influencer? 10:19 How to align your social media and side gigs with your main career goals 12:59 The different types of content you can do 17:00 Monetizing your social media (no matter the amount of followers) 25:39 YOU are your brand 29:14 Breaking down artist visas to work in the US 38:55 Building real career relationships takes time (and should) 41:06 Did social media during the pandemic make our industry better or worse? 48:57 The costs of artist visas Connect with Viveca Chow: Web - https://www.helloitsviveca.com/ (www.HelloItsViveca.com) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/helloitsviveca/ (@helloitsviveca) TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@vivecachow (@vivecachow) Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. For detailed show notes, please visit: https://www.JimCooney.me/paid-for-social?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/paid-for-social) Ready for a career and life you love? Check out https://www.amplifiedartists.life/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (Amplified Artists)! Want free tips and strategies each week? Join my https://www.JimCooney.me/join/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (mailing list)! Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”) Mentioned in this episode: Free 3-Part Branding Formula Guide and Worksheet How do you create your brand? How do you make your brand stand out so people want to hire you? I've got you! I put together a FREE guide and worksheet walking you through a 3-part formula that clarifies your brand. Grab it for free at https://JimCooney.me/branding/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes (JimCooney.me/branding) Win ONE FREE YEAR of Amplified Artists! We're doing a giveaway contest to celebrate the launch of Theater Life Uncensored! You can win an ENTIRE FREE YEAR of Amplified Artists, including full and unlimited access to all of our courses, workshops, events, town halls, Q&A Calls, and over $1200 worth of industry discounts for an entire year. All you have to do is: 1. Take a quick selfie of you listening to the podcast, or even a screenshot of the podcast itself 2. Post it on social media with the hashtag #TheaterLifeUncensored 3. Tag me @JimCooneyNYC I'll reshare it on my feed to give YOUR feed some love and you'll be entered in the drawing for one entire free year of Amplified Artists. We're running this contest through July 31, which means you can do this for each episode until then and increase your chance to win!

Welcome to Theater Life Uncensored where we peel back the curtain and reveal to you what's REALLY working in today's industry for theater artists just like you. That means you get to hear and learn how to surpass your career goals sooner and enjoy an easier, more peaceful life along the way.  New episodes come out each Sunday of this 15-episode season, plus some bonus episodes along the way! Subscribe for free in your favorite podcast app or at JimCooney.me/podcast. Like this podcast? Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review! It helps other people find out about the show. (Apple Podcast Users: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theater-life-uncensored/id1632490389 (Click here), scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.”)