Saying Yes: Ben Franklin’s Path from Small-Town Roots to Global Stages
Release Date: 02/03/2025
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About:
Welcome to "It's Messy, But It's So Good," the podcast that explores the captivating journeys of individuals following their passions and expanding through life's challenges.
Bio:
Ben Franklin (yes, that’s his real name) has dedicated over 30 years to a diverse career in show business, working as an actor, singer, dancer, writer, acrobat, ringmaster, and award-winning burlesque artist. Originally from King George, Virginia, he began performing on a hay bale and has since appeared on stages worldwide in musical theatre, opera, circus, and burlesque. His work includes National Tours, Lincoln Center, Off-Broadway, regional theatre, and world cruises before co-founding 2 Ring Circus with his husband, Joshua Dean. Together, they have created original circus productions that have toured internationally and reimagined shows like Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Seussical.
As part of the award-winning duo 2toFly, Ben has headlined burlesque festivals globally and produced acclaimed variety and circus shows in NYC for over 15 years. Ben manages Aerial Arts NYC, Manhattan’s premier aerial circus studio, while continuing to perform and create with 2 Ring Circus and 2toFly Productions.
Podcast Highlights:
1. Saying “Yes” to Opportunity
Ben shares how embracing opportunities and having supportive mentors shaped his diverse career in musical theater, circus arts, and burlesque.
2. Merging Circus and Theater
Ben discusses co-founding Two Ring Circus, where he blends circus arts with theater to create innovative productions like The Little Mermaid and Seussical.
3. Lessons in Authenticity
Ben reflects on the importance of staying true to yourself, learning from rejection, and maintaining gratitude in the entertainment industry.
4. From Small-Town Roots to Global Stages
He recounts his journey from performing in rural Virginia to gracing international stages, fueled by family support and mentors on his path.
5. Teaching and Creating
Ben talks about running Aerial Arts NYC, writing an original circus play, and inspiring others through his performances and teaching.
Contacts:
Personal: www.iambenfranklin.com
2 Ring Circus: www.2ringcircus.com
2ToFly: www.2toflyburlesque.com
Aerial Arts NYC: www.aerialartsnyc.com
Social Media Handles:
Personal: @iambenfranklin
2 Ring Circus: @2ringcircus
2toFly: @2toflyburlesque
Aerial Arts NYC: @aerialartsnyc
Business Names:
2 Ring Circus
Aerial Arts NYC
About Your Host
Fran Medina HWNC-BC is a Board-Certified Holistic Nurse and Life Coach with over 40 years of nursing experience in the art and science of Health and Healing. Fran is a certified facilitator of the Creative Clarity Catalyst Programs based on the Stanford University Creativity in Business MA course. Fran is a co-founder of the Conscious Connection, a creative arts, wellness and healing network in Hudson Valley, NY. Fran holds certifications in many healing and holistic modalities.
Contact
- Website: www.franmedinacoaching.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @franmedinacoaching
- Facebook: Francine Medina
With Love,
Fran Medina RN, Empowerment Coach