Things Are Going Great For Me with J. Claude Deering

Welcome back! To another BRAND NEW season of Things Are Going Great For Me: The Podcast. In our first episode of Season 3 J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with author and Tony Award-winning actor Ali Stroker (Only Murders In The Building/Hulu). Ali is a Tony Award-winning actor for her role as ‘Ado Annie' in the 2019 revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! She made history as the first actor in a wheelchair to appear on Broadway in Deaf West's acclaimed 2015 revival of Spring Awakening. She can be seen as a series regular on Netflix's number one show of 2022, “Echoes”, as well as on Hulu's highest rated series, “Only Murders in the Building." She also recurred on Netflix in “Ozark” and on ABC's “Ten Days in the Valley”. The past summer Ali starred in Shakespeare in the Park's production of Richard III as Anne. She's also performed concerts around the country in venues including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and Carnegie Hall. In 2022, Audible Originals released her one-woman show, "An Evening With Ali Stroker". Ali is the proud author of the acclaimed 2021 novel, The Chance to Fly, while 2022 saw the publication of her children's book, Ali and the Sea Stars. Followed by a second interview with Assistant Director Ru Kazi (Welcome to Chippendales/Hulu). A multi-talented artist, and our first ever Assistant Director on the podcast. Ru is currently completing the Directors Guild Producer Training Program, with a specialization in Assistant Directing. They are currently working on various hit streaming series including Freeform's Good Trouble and the upcoming Hulu series Welcome to Chippendales, starring Kumail Nanjiani. Also a graduate of the Stella Adler Conservatory Ru has acted in both contemporary and classical plays, they've also directed plays, and they've made numerous television appearances in shows such as 2 BROKE GIRLS, NCIS and a recurring role on NBC's THE GOOD PLACE. Ru also made several award-winning short films, including LAST TO REPEAT, nominated for 12 awards. Ru regularly performs improv comedy as a main-stage player at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and The Second City's Hollywood branch. In Ru's free time, they plays drums in a social justice punk rock band that regularly plays at famed Sunset Strip venues such as Whiskey-a-Go-Go and The Rainbow Room. Stick around for Ru's interview, we promise you, you're not gonna want to miss it. J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat the funniest celebrity to pass on this season of the podcast. It's "inconceivable!" If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes now premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews with John Clarence Stewart, Zibby Allen, Alyssa Limperis, Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf and Susie Abromeit, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

In our Season 2 finale of Things Are Going Great For Me J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with Shelly Bhalla (Jane the Virgin). Shelly is an actor who starred as Krishna Dhawan in the Peabody Award Winning, and Emmy and Golden Globe nominated series, Jane the Virgin. Shelly talks about turning a small co-star role into a beloved character who recurred 29 times on the show. She also talks about playing the first gay woman of Indian descent on television, the often elusive pay pumps as a recurring guest star, and systemic problems in terms of historical pay in Hollywood for AAPI performers and women of color. And she talks about her personal life, including dealing with the grief of losing her father 20 years ago, and her volunteering with Experience Camps. In addition to her Covid-elopement style wedding in the midst of a pandemic. Followed by a second interview with Noah Maxwell Clarke (I May Destroy You). Noah is an English and American actor, who has recurred and guest starred on multiple British television series, including HBO's I May Destroy You, Britannia, Top Boy, and Hard Sun. He's also known for playing Osman Bolat on the beloved landmark British television series EastEnders. He talks about the vibe of the industry in London, UK casting directors, his Meisner training at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, and getting to work with the legendary Carrie Fisher. He also talks about growing up in a talented family of exceptional artists. Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude discuss the horrific death of cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, on the Rust film. In addition to safety protocols and working conditions on set. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. Subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! And stay tuned for Season 3, coming soon! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

It's multi-hyphenate day on Things Are Going Great For Me. J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with Alyshia Ochse (True Detective). Alyshia is an actor, a podcaster, an author, and an audition coach. Alyshia has over 75 titles on her resume and even more credits, including her outstanding performance in the iconic first season of True Detective, where she shared the screen with Matthew McConaughey at the height of the "McConaissance". She recently co-starred in the multiple Emmy-winning Quibi series #FreeRayshawn, with Laurence Fishburne. She talks about auditioning, book writing, and interviewing actors for her podcast That One Audition. She also talks about working on multiple projects, while maintaining her work/life balance. Followed by a second interview with Stefanie Black (IAMA Theatre Company). Stefanie is an actor, writer, and feature film director, who also serves as the Artistic Director of IAMA Theatre Company (of which she is also a founding member). She talks about leading a membership based theater company, and moving an entire slate of play productions fully online as digital offerings in the midst of a global pandemic. She also talks about her multiple credits working on TV sitcoms and dramas. Including being a regular player in ShondaLand, and working with her hero, Kathy Bates. Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat Succession and Squid Game. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got just ONE more episode in Season 2, premiering next Thursday! Featuring interviews with Shelly Bhalla and Noah Maxwell Clarke! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Pej Vahdat (Bones). Pej is a prolific actor who starred as Dr. Arastoo Vaziri on Bones, Kelly Patel on Empire, and Kash on Showtime's Shameless. He talks about the groundbreaking character arc of Dr. Vaziri on Bones. Struggling to get noticed early on in his career as a brown actor, and navigating an industry that often tokenizes and stereotypes Middle Eastern performers. He also talks about his stage work at Lincoln Center, his early career as a professional tennis player. And the incredible story of when he started his own agency in order to submit himself on projects. Followed by a second interview with Mapuana Makia (Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.). Mapuana currently stars as Dr. Noelani Nakayama on the new Disney+ series, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. She talks about doing a network showcase at ABC, and going on to shadow direct for the showcase, in addition to co-teaching workshops for program. She also talks about working as a dialogue coach on set, growing up in Hawaii, working with teen actors, her old day jobs in bars and restaurants, and creating her own voiceover and audiobook business. Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat about breaking the rules in art. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got just TWO more episodes in Season 2, premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Alyshia Ochse, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Joe Tippett (Mare of Easttown). Joe is an actor who starred as John Ross in the multiple Emmy Award winning HBO hit series Mare of Easttown. Joe was also in the original cast of Waitress on Broadway, and he also recurs as Hal Jackson on The Morning Show for AppleTV+. Joe talks about craft and process while working on a complicated whodunit, and finding what's universal in the specifics of small town Pennsylvania. He also shares insights about working with multiple celebrated leading ladies such as Kate Winslet, Jean Smart, and Julianne Nicholson. And he chats sobriety, the difference between performance in TV/Film vs Theater, and booking jobs in Zoom rooms. Followed by a very special interview with celebrity barber Jonathan Castellanos (LLANOS.LA). Jonathan has been featured in Nylon, and Valet Magazine. Before opening his own studio he worked as the brand ambassador for Baxter Finley. Jonathan is not only an artist, crafting hairstyles with thoughtfulness and unparalleled skill, he's also a pop culture connoisseur. He's both an excellent listener and a master conversationalist. During the pandemic, barbershops became particularly hard hit. When the lockdown happened, Jonathan had to retool his studio. By the time the lockdown started to lift, Jonathan had moved his business into the garage of his new home. Listen as Claude and Jonathan catch up after a year and a half, while Claude sits for an actual haircut. Plus, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat about comedy schools and the Williamstown Theatre Festival. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got just THREE more episodes in Season 2, premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Schitt's Creek fans! Here's a “Surprise-Me-Smoothie” you're sure to love. J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Sarah Levy (Schitt's Creek). Sarah is a SAG Award-winning actor for her role playing Twyla Sands in the record breaking Emmy-winning smash streaming hit, Schitt's Creek. Sarah talks about the success of Schitt's Creek, her beginnings auditioning in LA, and her latest comedy horror series SurrealEstate on the SyFy network. She also talks about her dad's famous Toronto production of Godspell back in 1972, and the experience of growing up as part of Hollywood and Canadian comedy royalty. Followed by a second interview with comedian, writer, and actor Madison Shepard (Single Drunk Female). Madison is a comedian, writer, and actor who plays Gail on the Jenni Konner exec produced FreeForm comedy series, Single Drunk Female. She talks podcasting, her old side gig as a LYFT driver, writing for the 72nd Primetime Emmys, and her hilarious debut Comedy EP “Goodnight Silverlake Lounge”. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat British culture.  If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Jim O'Heir (Parks and Recreation). Jim is an Emmy-winning actor and comedian, known to everyone as the beloved Jerry Gergich from Parks and Recreation. Also known to superfans of the show as Larry, Terry, and Garry. He talks about his come up in his Chicago days doing theater and comedy, including his theater cult hit Stumpy's Gang, which subsequently brought him out to LA. He talks about the audition process for Parks and Rec, and some fun gossip from the Parks and Rec cast family group chat. He also talks about playing against type, and his recent Emmy win for his work on The Bold and the Beautiful. Followed by a second interview with comedian and writer Joan Haley Ford (ThunderCats Roar). Joan is an Emmy-nominated writer for her work on Funny or Die's hilarious recap series, Gay of Thrones. She talks about her work at the UCB theater, including her long running sketch show Seinfeld: The Purge. She talks about the early days of Funny of Die, her writing for the animated series Thundercats Roar, and her upcoming HBO Max series, Tiny Toons Looniversity. She also talks about film school at Emerson College, inclusivity at the big comedy schools, and her all trans sketch team “Red and Yellow”, her hilarious sketches on the Twitch platform, and the virtues of the Gremlins movies. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude talk the impending IATSE Union strike. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Madison Shepard, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Corbin Reid (Run The World/Starz). Corbin plays Sondi Hill on the new Starz comedy series, Run The World, which recently got picked up for a second season! Corbin talks about shooting a season of a show during a pandemic, in the pre-vaccine world. Her easy chemistry with her co-stars. The unique character of Harlem in New York City. Growing up in Minneapolis, and going to U Michigan for college. Her work in RENT Off-Broadway. The demands of being a swing performer in a Broadway show. And starring in reboot of Blair Witch. Followed by a second interview with actor Erin Pineda (Physical/AppleTV+). Erin is a writer, actor, and comedian, who's currently starring in the AppleTV+ dark comedy, Physical. Erin talks about doing theater and comedy in LA, including her celebrated performance as Gilda Radner in Alan Zweibel's production of “Bunny Bunny”. She also talks about her role as Helen in Jamie Denbo's ren faire comedy, American Princess. Plus network showcases, audition technique, working with agents and managers, and giving yourself writing deadlines. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat their experiences seeing the first Blair Witch movie. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O'Heir, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Joan Ford, Madison Shepard, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with comedian and Emmy winning television writer, Kevin Avery (Last Week Tonight with John Oliver). Kevin served as head writer for the TV series, Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell. Kevin and Kamau also had a popular podcast on Earwolf, called Denzel Washington Is The Greatest Actor Of All Time Period. Kevin currently writes for the FOX animated series, The Great North. He chats day jobs, stand up, being part of the Emmy winning team at Last Week Tonight, and running a writers room. Followed by a second interview with comedian Hanna Dickinson (Get Money/Comedy Central). Hanna is a comedian and a breakout star of Comedy Central's Inaugural Creators Program. Where she was creating sketch videos, doing stand up spots, and hosting The Comedy Central Roast red carpets. Comedy Central also produced her Snapchat series, Get Money, a satire of a gig economy worker. Hanna's debut half hour comedy special is on Epix's Unexpected Sets series. Hanna chats about her stand up, strict parents, sobriety, and being on the team at Comedy Central. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat the 20th anniversary of September 11th. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O'Heir, Corbin Reid, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Joan Ford, Madison Shepard, and Shelly Bhalla. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

It's podcasters day on Things Are Going Great For Me! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with screenwriter, culture critic, and podcast host Ira Madison III (Keep It!/Crooked Media). Nylon Magazine has called him “one of the most reliably hilarious and incisive cultural critics writing today”. Ira is the creator and one of the hosts of the hugely popular Keep It! podcast on Crooked Media. Claude and Ira talk the intersection of pop culture and politics, Ira's graduate studies at NYU Tisch School's Dramatic Writing Program, and his latest movie project for Jennifer Hudson. Followed by a second interview with podcast producer Brendan McDonald (WTF with Marc Maron Podcast). Brendan is the producer of one of the biggest and most beloved podcasts in the world, the WTF Pod with Marc Maron. Brendan chats about his work as a senior producer on MSNBC's All In with Chris Hayes. The origins of the WTF pod in the offices of the old Air America liberal radio network. The history of podcasting, and the roots of a lot of its success in the LA comedy scene. Some of the more famous guests of WTF, and the historic interview they landed with then President Barack Obama. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat pop culture, and debate cable vs streaming services. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got new episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O'Heir, Kevin Avery, Corbin Reid, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Welcome back! To a BRAND NEW season of Things Are Going Great For Me: The Podcast. In our first episode of the season J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Patrick J. Adams (The Right Stuff). They talk about his work on Suits, and his latest Nat Geo series, The Right Stuff, in which he plays astronaut John Glenn. Getting his first movie role while in college, in Will Ferrell's, Old School. And almost losing the job because of his Canadian citizenship - he had 24 hours to create an internship at USC in order to appear in the film. They talk Burning Man, flying airplanes, it's a wide ranging and interesting chat. Followed by a second interview with another actor/astronaut Michael Benz (For All Mankind). Claude and Michael went to high school together. They talk about his new AppleTV+ series For All Mankind, his work as a child actor for the BBC, his training at RADA, starring as Hamlet for Shakespeare's Globe, doing The Tempest with Ralph Fiennes, being shot to death by Joaquin Phoenix's, Joker (he plays one of “Wall Street Three”), his work on Broadway with Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in Little Foxes, goofing around with Paul Giamatti on the set of Downton Abbey and getting shushed by Maggie Smith, and if that's not enough, getting discovered by Tom Hanks. Twice. J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk the differences between the US and UK when it comes to underage drinking. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you're getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We've got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O'Heir, Kevin Avery, Ira Madison III, Corbin Reid, Brendan McDonald, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, and Shelly Bhalla. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Here it is, our final episode of Season 1! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and author Tembi Locke (From Scratch). Tembi is a succesful actor, and New York Times bestseller for her memoir, “From Scratch”. Soon to be a Netflix series, starring Zoe Saldana. It’s a heartbreaking and beautiful story about the loss of her first husband, a wonderful Italian chef named Saro, to Cancer. The book was also featured in Reese Witherspoon’s, Reese’s Book Club. Claude and Tembi worked together on the Blumhouse YouTube Original comedy horror series, 12 Deadly Days. Just one of 52 TV series she’s worked on in her very busy career. She talks about the changes to actor pensions and residuals over the years. She also talks about her parents' activism and being targeted by the FBI’s notorious COINTELPRO program. And she talks about the historic nomination of Kamala Harris for Vice President of the United States. Followed by a second interview with actor, producer, and activist Vinny Chhibber (The Red Line). Vinny is a fast rising actor and producer, and a strong activist for better representation in Hollywood, both in front of and behind the camera. He recently starred as Liam Bhatt in the Ava DuVernay and Greg Berlanti exec produced CBS series, The Red Line. Vinny talks about the importance of voting and civic engagement. His work as a co-founder of The Salon, a forum whose mission is to accelerate the creative development of South Asian American television and film through community organizing and empowerment. He also talks losing the lead in a new tv series due to the shutdown. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk Things Are Going Great For Me Season 2. If you like any of what you hear, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And stay tuned for more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me. Coming soon! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

This is a really good one, folks... J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and writer Rightor Doyle (Barry). Rightor is a SAG-Nominated actor for best comedy ensemble, for his role as Nick Nicholby on the Peabody and Emmy-winning HBO comedy, Barry. He’s also the creator and director of Netflix’s dark comedy series, Bonding. Rightor talks about making his Broadway debut. His audition for Barry. He also talks about the process of selling two different TV series. Claude and Rightor also chat about their work together at the renowned Williamstown Theatre Festival. Followed by a second interview with producer and author Elna Baker (This American Life). Elna is a celebrated comedian, author, and long time producer of the Pulitzer Prize-winning landmark radio series, This American Life. She talks about her producing and storytelling work on This American Life. And what she looks for in a story. Her upbringing in the Mormon Faith, and her first memoir, The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance. Her long journey with body shame and self-love. She’s also the first person on the podcast who is a survivor of COVID-19. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk Barry and celebrity sightings. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There is one more fantastic episode of Things Are Going Great For Me in Season 1, premiering next Thursday! Featuring interviews with Tembi Locke and Vinny Chhibber! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Sara Paxton (The Front Runner). Sara is an Emmy-nominated actor and movie star who starred in the fan favorite tween fantasy romance comedy, Aquamarine. She talks about her audition process for Aquamarine. And what it was like shooting half a movie in the water, in a mermaid tail. She also talks about her great working experience with Hugh Jackman in the Jason Reitman film, The Front Runner. Her episode of MTV’s Cribs. Losing a Daytime Emmy to Elmo. And her work on Andrew Dominik's upcoming Marilyn Monroe biopic, Blonde. Followed by a second interview with comedian Dalia Malek (SF Sketchfest). Dalia's an internationally celebrated comic whose comedy has appeared in USA Today, BuzzFeed, The Huffington Post, Paste, WhoHaha, and Funny or Die. She’s appeared at SF Sketchfest, in consecutive years, 2018, 2019, and 2020. And multiple Edinburgh Fringe Comedy Festivals. She also performed at the inaugural Cairo Comedy Festival, in 2019. The first ever comedy festival in Egypt. She’s also a human rights legal advocate, and international human rights, and refugee law expert. She talks about starting her comedy career, while simultaneously finishing her PhD. Living in the UK. Doing comedy in a pandemic. And playing comedy shows in the Middle East. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk favorite horror films. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Rightor Doyle, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, and Elna Baker! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Christine Woods (Hello Ladies). Christine played Jessica on HBO’s Emmy-nominated Hello Ladies, starring Stephen Merchant. She also played Lucretia Colder on USA’s Briarpatch. She talks about her audition process for Hello Ladies, including reading for one of the best casting directors in the business, Allison Jones. She talks about the nerve-wracking process of booking a TV pilot - she's booked a whopping thirteen pilots in her busy career. And she talks honestly about the pressures she’s encountered while navigating the business, including her experiences being an actor with a film at Sundance. Followed by a second interview with actor and comedian Royce Johnson (The Pack Theater). Royce is one of the sharpest culture critics around. He currently plays on a house team at the beloved upstart punk rock comedy school, The Pack Theater, in Los Angeles. He talks about the differences between some of the notable comedy schools. Homophobia in Hollywood. He also talks about taking part in Studio U a long-form focus group run by infamous political consultant, Frank Luntz, that was instrumental in the development of Hulu. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk myths about the glamorous Hollywood life. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Sara Paxton, Rightor Doyle, Tembi Locke, Dalia Malek, Vinny Chhibber, and Elna Baker! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Melissa Fumero (Brooklyn Nine-Nine). Melissa plays Amy Santiago on NBC’s Brooklyn-Nine Nine. She’s a TV comedy icon, nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series. She talks about her early soap career. The highly anticipated Season 8 of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She also shares the origin story of her sibling-like friendship with Lin-Manuel Miranda. Shooting two different seasons of network TV, while pregnant. And her first outings as a director. Followed by a second interview with actor David Lengel (Coming 2 America). David is a busy working actor, in both LA and Atlanta. He talks going to high school at the renowned Fiorello H. LaGuardia school in New York, featured in Alan Parker’s classic film, Fame. And what it was like going to high school with Nicki Minaj. He also talks about his experience working on films with luminaries such as Clint Eastwood, The Rock, and Eddie Murphy. It’s also a wonderful conversation about craft, and the differences of acting for theater, and acting for television and film. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about cop shows. Here we are, episode six! We’re just over halfway through our limited series. Or it could be halfway through Season One. Demand more and we’ll make more. So if you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Sara Paxton, Rightor Doyle, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Chantal Thuy (Black Lightning). Chantal plays Grace Choi on the CW’s Black Lightning. She also played the role of Minnie in Pulitzer-Prize-winner Tracy Letts’ new Broadway play, Linda Vista. Chantal talks about her extraordinary past year shooting Black Lightning, while simultaneously starring on Broadway. Representation in Hollywood, and her activism with the organization Build Power. And the process of optioning a book for a film adaptation. Followed by a second interview with actor Jordan Barbour (The Inheritance Play / Broadway). Jordan was nominated for Best Featured Actor in a Play on Broadway, as part of the inaugural Antonyo Awards for Black Theater Artists, for his performance as Tristan, in The Inheritance Play. A show that TIME Magazine called "the most important play of the century". The show was closed down prematurely because of COVID. So Jordan talks about what happens in a business where “the show must go on”, and suddenly…it doesn’t. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about all things theater. Here we are, episode five! We’re halfway through our limited series. Or it could be halfway through Season One. It’s entirely up to you. Demand more and we’ll make more. So if you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and college friend, Brandon Scott (Dead to Me / 13 Reasons Why). Brandon plays Officer Nick Prager on Netflix’s Dead to Me. He also plays Coach J. J. Kerba on Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why. Claude and Brandon talk about their shared theater education. An NBC comedy pilot they both tested for. Brandon's longtime practice of martial arts. He also tells an absolutely hilarious and terrifying story about his early career studio test for Denzel Washington, for a role in the film The Great Debaters. Followed by a second interview with actor Jess Nurse (Scandal / War Games). Jess recurred on ABC’s Scandal, and she stars in the VR reboot of MGM’s War Games. She’s an alum of the prestigious Stella Adler Studios, in New York. Jess talks about acting in a VR project that features a complicated interactive decision tree. Her own wonderful original series Roof Access. And the day she received the felicitous news from her reps that her character was going from a co-star to a recurring role on a network tv show. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about the difficulties of making a living as an actor. And to support @beanartshero – an organization that’s advocating for the DAWN Act, a comprehensive bill to provide arts worker relief. Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

It’s a comedian heavy episode of Things Are Going Great For Me. J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with comedian and actor Baron Vaughn (Grace and Frankie / Comedy Central's Corporate). They talk about some personal shared experience seeking out and connecting with a birth parent. The American education system. The way in which fear and anxiety can be a necessary part of the artistic process. Breaking out of the boxes of Hollywood’s racial stereotypes. And putting a tape together for Saturday Night Live. Followed by a second interview with comedian Liz Glazer. Liz talks about doing comedy during a pandemic. Her engagement to a rabbi. Her panic inducing bat mizvah. And her magical story of being a magnet for tossed away fortune cookie fortunes. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat about all things comedy. Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Clarke Peters (Da 5 Bloods) back in June, 2020. They talk about Da 5 Bloods, and how Clarke met Spike Lee. Mr. Peters' multiple Tony and Olivier-Award nominations and wins. Anti-black racism in the UK. Historically not getting paid the same as his white actor counterparts. And his theory on why The Wire is a better show than The Sopranos. Followed by a second interview with actor Della Saba (Zootopia). An Actors' Gang company member. She also voiced "Young Judy Hopps" in Disney's Zootopia. It’s a wonderful conversation about theater and craft. Claude and Della talk about voiceover work, theater styles, actor training, and identity. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude have a conversation about the tragic passing of movie star and icon, Chadwick Boseman. Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Baron Vaughn, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Chris Pine (Wonder Woman 1984) back in April, 2020. In this exclusive podcast interview, movie star Chris Pine talks about Wonder Woman, Quentin Tarantino, superhero roles, roles he's passed on, flip phones, and the possibility of collaborating with Bill Hader. Followed by a second interview with screenwriter G.O. Parsons (Willy's Wonderland). A 15 year overnight success story, playwright and actor G.O. Parsons, managed to get his script into the hands of one of the most bankable movie stars on earth. The movie follows a drifter played by Nicolas Cage who takes a job as a janitor at a family entertainment center. Unknowingly he’s walking into a trap where he’s meant to be sacrificed to the venues demonic animatronic mascots. Claude's also joined by his producer and co-host, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat about the development of the show. Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Baron Vaughn, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Clarke Peters, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

New episodes start streaming August 27th. Tune in every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Chris Pine, Clarke Peters, Melissa Fumero, Baron Vaughn, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support