Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Welcome to Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan. I’m so excited to be sharing my love of the entertainment industry with you. I'll be interviewing actors, musicians, choreographers, singers, lighting and stage tech, writers… Basically, if they’ve got anything to do with the entertainment industry, I’ll be speaking with them. So come and join me, Me’sha Bryan on Stage & Screen.
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Episode 14: Cheryl Baker - Part 2: From Music to TV and Back Again
12/02/2025
Episode 14: Cheryl Baker - Part 2: From Music to TV and Back Again
In this engaging conversation, Me'sha quizes Cheryl into the intricacies of making music videos, the transition to television presenting, and the challenges faced while hosting the popular show Record Breakers. Cheryl reflects on the impact of parenthood on her career, shares heartfelt memories of the late Roy Castle, and discuss the evolution of her identities within the entertainment industry. The conversation highlights the joys and struggles of returning to music and the importance of maintaining a professional persona while navigating fame. Cheryl reflects on her journey through fame, identity, and personal growth. She shares insights on navigating the complexities of being a celebrity while staying grounded, her love for cooking, and her aspirations for the future. The discussion also touches on her experiences with aging, health, and the desire to connect with her audience through upcoming projects. Links Cheryl's Website: The Fizz Website & Socials Stage and Screen Me'sha's Website & Socials Takeaways Making music videos is tedious but rewarding. Transitioning to presenting was a natural progression. Record Breakers involved crazy challenges and stunts. Parenthood drastically changed life and career priorities. Roy Castle was a significant influence and friend. The entertainment industry can be ageist and challenging. Returning to music brought joy and fulfillment. Maintaining a professional persona is essential. The importance of camaraderie in the entertainment industry. Life experiences shape personal and professional identity. Cheryl got married later in life, which allowed her to enjoy her youth. She prefers being recognized as Rita rather than Cheryl Baker. Staying grounded is important to her, and she values her family and friends. She enjoys being recognized and appreciates the love from fans. Cheryl has a passion for cooking and enjoys hosting dinner parties. She reflects on the challenges of aging and health concerns. Cheryl has achieved many career milestones but still has personal aspirations. She wishes she had cracked the American market during her career. Cheryl's daughters are pursuing their own creative projects, which she supports. She is excited about her upcoming solo show and potential new music with Bucks Fizz. Chapters 00:00 The Music Video Experience 03:06 Transitioning to Presenting 05:57 Record Breakers and Crazy Challenges 09:03 The Impact of Parenthood 12:09 Remembering Roy Castle 15:01 The Evolution of Career and Identity 18:05 The Return to Music and Performance 32:24 Navigating Fame and Identity 35:59 The Joy of Being Recognized 36:45 Staying Grounded in Stardom 40:28 Reflections on Aging and Health 46:32 Career Achievements and Future Aspirations 49:47 The American Dream and Missed Opportunities 55:10 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans
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Episode 13: Cheryl Baker - Part 1: A Journey Through Music and Fame
11/18/2025
Episode 13: Cheryl Baker - Part 1: A Journey Through Music and Fame
In this engaging conversation, Me’sha chats to Cheryl Baker, known for her role in the iconic pop group Bucks Fizz, shares her journey through the music industry, from her early days in a band called Coco to her experiences with Eurovision and the dynamics of being in a manufactured pop group. She reflects on her love for harmony singing, the challenges of transitioning to a professional career, and the relationships formed within her band. Cheryl's warmth and humour shine through as she recounts memorable moments and the serendipitous nature of her career. In this engaging conversation, Cheryl Baker reflects on her experiences with Bucks Fizz, discussing the dynamics within the band, the challenges of popularity, and the impact of Mike Nolan's departure. She shares insights into the new line-up, her audition experiences, and the demanding nature of live theatre. Cheryl also expresses her desire to explore straight acting roles and discusses her singing training, highlighting the complexities of vocal techniques. Links: Cheryl's Website: The Fizz Website & Socials Stage and Screen Me'sha's Website & Socials Takeaways Cheryl Baker has been in the music industry for over 40 years. Her first paid performance was with a band called Mother's Pride in 1975. Cheryl's love for harmony singing was influenced by her family and early musical experiences. She won a talent competition at a young age, which boosted her confidence. Cheryl's transition to professional singing was marked by her involvement with the band Coco. She experienced the highs and lows of Eurovision, including coming in second and last in different years. Joining Bucks Fizz was a pivotal moment in her career, facilitated by connections in the industry. The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex, with strong friendships and some challenges. Cheryl reflects on the importance of chemistry in a musical group. Her journey highlights the role of serendipity and timing in achieving success. Cheryl was often late, which caused tension in the band. Mike Nolan's support was crucial for Cheryl's career. The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex and sometimes contentious. Cheryl reflects on the popularity of the band and its members. The new line-up of Bucks Fizz brings fresh energy and enthusiasm. Audition experiences can be both challenging and enlightening. Live theatre demands a strong work ethic and can be all-consuming. Cheryl expresses interest in pursuing straight acting roles. Training in singing can be a rigorous process. The ability to adapt vocal techniques is a valuable skill. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cheryl Baker and Bookz Fizz 02:59 Cheryl's Early Career and Musical Beginnings 06:09 The Formation of Coco and Transition to Bookz Fizz 09:05 Memorable Performances and Family Influence 12:06 Eurovision Journey and Its Impact 14:52 The Dynamics of Being in a Group 17:58 The Formation of Bucks Fizz and Initial Experiences 27:19 The Tension in the Band 30:08 Friendship and Loyalty 33:19 Reflections on Change and Growth 36:43 The New Line-Up 39:06 Audition Experiences 43:40 The Challenges of Theatre Life 45:36 Exploring Acting and Training
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Episode 12: Behind the Mic: Darren's Cold & Navigating the Entertainment Industry
11/04/2025
Episode 12: Behind the Mic: Darren's Cold & Navigating the Entertainment Industry
In this episode, Me'sha Bryan shares personal updates, reflections on recent podcast episodes, and discusses the challenges faced in the entertainment industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support among artists and the need for open communication about industry issues. Me'sha also encourages audience engagement for future episodes, particularly with upcoming guests. Takeaways It's important to acknowledge one's own contribution to any issues you're having. Singing requires proper technique and foundation behind it. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and support is crucial. Many artists fear speaking out due to potential repercussions. Collaboration and communication among artists can lead to better outcomes. Personal experiences shape the way we view our work and industry. Engagement with the audience is vital for podcast success. Future guests can provide valuable insights and knowledge. Life is too short to put up with foolishness in the industry. Creativity and autonomy in podcasting allow for honest discussions. Sound bites "You want to work?" "Send in the questions for Cheryl Baker before Nov 13th" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 03:02 Reflections on Recent Episodes 05:58 Industry Challenges and Experiences 08:59 The Importance of Support in the Industry 12:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Engagements
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Episode 11: Emer McParland - Part 2: Unlocking the Secrets of Sight Singing
10/21/2025
Episode 11: Emer McParland - Part 2: Unlocking the Secrets of Sight Singing
In this conversation, Me’sha & Emer delve into the intricacies of sight singing, its importance in the music industry, and Emer’s personal journey in creating a comprehensive sight singing course. They discuss the challenges faced in sight singing, humorous anecdotes from their experiences, and the impact of AI on music. The conversation also touches on finding balance in life and work, the joy of teaching, and future endeavours in the entertainment industry. Takeaways Sight singing is a crucial skill for musicians. Many musicians struggle with sight singing despite having beautiful voices. Teaching sight singing can be a rewarding experience. The 'Sing By Sight' course was created to fill a gap in music education. AI may change the music landscape, but live performances will always be valued. Finding a work-life balance is essential for long-term happiness in music careers. Humor can arise from unexpected challenges in music sessions. Leaving a job with a positive attitude can open future opportunities. Being organized is key in the music industry. The human element in music is irreplaceable. Sound bites "It's good for your brain." "You have to be organized." "Leave with a smile." Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Sight Singing 05:09 The Importance of Sight Singing in Music 10:21 Challenges and Humour in Sight Singing 12:39 Creating 'Sing By Sight' Course 17:50 The Dynamics of Group Singing 23:37 Navigating Challenges in Collaborative Work 24:54 The High-Stakes World of Film Soundtracks 30:14 The Impact of AI on Music and Performance 34:37 Finding Balance: The Move from London to the Wirral 39:01 The Importance of Organisation in a Freelance Career 42:33 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations
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Episode 10: Lee Hall - Part 2: From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
10/07/2025
Episode 10: Lee Hall - Part 2: From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
In this conversation, Me'sha & Lee dive into the intricacies of writing, storytelling, and the collaborative nature of theatre. They discuss the evolution of the musical 'Billy Elliot', the importance of audience engagement, and the emotional depth in storytelling. Their dialogue touches on the writer's journey, the significance of feedback, and the political power of writing to foster empathy. The speakers share insights into their creative processes and the challenges of navigating collaboration in the arts, while also hinting at future projects and the unpredictability of the creative landscape. Stage & Screen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/meshabryan/ Stage & Screen Websites http://stageandscreenpodcast.com/ https://www.meshabryan.com/ Takeaways The evolution of a play involves constant refinement based on audience feedback. Engaging with the audience can enhance the writing process. Storytelling should evoke both laughter and tears for a deeper impact. Collaboration is essential in theatre, involving various creative inputs. Feedback from directors and producers can provide valuable insights for writers. The creative process often involves experimentation and unexpected discoveries. Characters often reflect the writer's own experiences and vulnerabilities. Writing serves as a means to foster empathy and understanding in society. The unpredictability of the creative industry requires flexibility and adaptability. Every writer has a unique voice that should be celebrated and expressed. Sound bites "It's like a dance between me and them." "I love to put laughter and tears back to back." "You have to access something much more mysterious." "Writing plays is like an empathy machine." "You never quite know what's going to happen." "It's a hard life to plan." "It's all that I do." "You have to be yourself." Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Billy Elliot 03:07 The Dance of Audience Engagement 06:52 The Depth of Storytelling 09:00 The Writer's Journey 12:53 Collaboration in Theatre 17:42 Navigating Feedback and Ego 20:36 The Creative Process 24:47 Exploring the Otherness in Characters 29:39 The Political Power of Writing 30:07 Future Projects and Unfinished Works
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Episode 9: Emer McParland - Part 1: Navigating the music industry as an elite session singer.
09/23/2025
Episode 9: Emer McParland - Part 1: Navigating the music industry as an elite session singer.
In this delightfully engaging conversation, session vocalist Emer McParland shares her extensive journey through the music industry, highlighting her early influences, the importance of family support, and her education at Trinity College of Music. She discusses the significance of adaptability in her career as a session singer, the techniques she employs to maintain vocal health, and the creative process behind interpreting various musical styles. Emer's insights into the challenges and joys of performance provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of a versatile artist. In this conversation, Emer and Me'sha discuss the importance of authenticity in performance, the comfort of being on stage, and Emer's journey into big band singing. She shares experiences from her career, including the challenges and pressures of session singing and studio recordings, emphasizing the significance of preparation and connection with the audience. Takeaways Emer McParland has over 30 years of experience in the music industry. Her family encouraged musical pursuits from a young age. She began performing at age six, gaining early experience in clubs. Emer's mother played a significant role in her musical education. She won a world championship on the piano accordion at age 12. Emer studied classical music at Trinity College of Music in London. She emphasizes the importance of relaxation in singing. Mistakes in performance can be managed with confidence and creativity. Emer learned to adapt her singing style across various genres. Her versatility as a session singer allows her to meet diverse musical demands. It's about being authentic in your singing. Singing jazz requires telling a story. Feeling comfortable on stage enhances performance. The stage can feel like a second home for performers. Preparation is key to success in music careers. Networking is vital in the music industry. Session singing often involves last-minute opportunities. Studio recordings can be high-pressure environments. Understanding your voice is crucial for versatility. Every performance is an opportunity to connect with the audience. Sound bites "I was always the singer in the family." "Just get on and do it!" "You've got to sing with your voice." "The stage is my second home." "It's so important to feel comfortable." "I really want to be there." "You have to look good on stage." "It's strange but it's exciting." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emer McParland 01:28 Early Musical Influences and Family Background 06:05 The Journey Through Music Education 11:55 Transitioning Between Genres and Styles 17:56 The Art of Adaptability in Session Singing 23:35 Embracing Authenticity in Performance 28:11 The Comfort of the Stage 29:51 The Journey to Big Band Singing 36:48 Navigating the World of Session Singing 41:03 The Pressure of Studio Recordings
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Episode 8: Behind the Mic: Migraine Musings and Interview Insights
09/09/2025
Episode 8: Behind the Mic: Migraine Musings and Interview Insights
In this episode, Me’sha Bryan reflects on the journey of the podcast, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from previous guests. She discusses the importance of audience engagement and the learning experiences that come with podcasting. Me’sha emphasises the value of thoughtful reflection and community building within the entertainment industry. Links: Takeaways Me’sha has chronic migraines, which he openly discusses. The podcast has reached a significant milestone with its episodes. Engagement with the audience is crucial for the podcast's success. Me’sha's presenting style is influenced by her extensive training and experience. The importance of thoughtful reflection during interviews is highlighted. Guests on the podcast share valuable insights and stories. Me’sha encourages listeners to explore all episodes for diverse perspectives. The podcast aims to create a community around shared experiences in entertainment. Me’sha acknowledges the behind-the-scenes work of her team, especially Darren. The podcast is a platform for learning and growth in the creative industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 05:19 Podcast Journey and Guest Highlights 10:49 Learning and Growth in Podcasting 12:36 Engagement and Community Building
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Episode 7: Mike Nolan - Part 2: Bucks Fizz and Beyond
08/26/2025
Episode 7: Mike Nolan - Part 2: Bucks Fizz and Beyond
In this, the second part of Me’sha Bryan’s interview, listeners are taken on a captivating journey through the life and career of Mike Nolan, a key member of the iconic band, Bucks Fizz. The discussion delves into the origins of the band's name, the whirlwind experience of winning Eurovision, and the dynamics within the group. Mike shares candid thoughts on his solo career and the creative freedom it brought and a heartfelt recount of his final performance with Bucks Fizz and the emotional standing ovation he received. Key Highlights: The story behind the name "Bucks Fizz" and its connection to a celebratory drink. Mike's reflections on the rapid rise to fame after winning Eurovision. Insights into the personal and professional relationships within the band. Mike's candid thoughts on his solo career and the creative freedom it brought. A heartfelt recount of his final performance with Bucks Fizz and the emotional standing ovation he received. #MikeNolan #BucksFizz #Eurovision #MusicJourney #Podcast Takeaways The name 'Bucks Fizz' originated from a casual conversation after a studio demo. The band was formed quickly, and their success hinged on winning Eurovision. Group dynamics were complex, with members not always gelling personally. Fame brought both recognition and challenges, affecting personal interactions. Transitioning to solo work was not initially planned but became a natural progression. The experience of performing solo is nerve-wracking compared to being in a band. Celebrity life involves constant recognition and the need to be gracious to fans. Personal growth often comes from overcoming challenges and feedback from peers. The importance of maintaining relationships with fans is crucial for long-term success. Navigating fame requires humility and an understanding of its transient nature. Everyone goes through challenges in life. The impact of fame can be surprising. Memorable moments often come from unexpected places. Independence is a significant milestone in life. Leaving home can be both exciting and emotional. Recognition from family can validate one's career choices. The journey of a musician is filled with ups and downs. Reflecting on a long career brings mixed emotions. It's important to appreciate the audience's support. A heartfelt farewell can be a powerful experience. Sound bites "Where did that come from?" "It's a brilliant feeling." "You can't be rude to them." "I want to be a singer" "Eat it baby, eat it" Chapters 00:00 The Origin of Bucks Fizz 01:00 Formation and Early Days of the Band 03:21 Dynamics Within the Group 07:42 Transition to Solo Work 11:58 The Impact of Fame 17:05 Navigating Celebrity Life 18:06 The Impact of Fame 21:07 Memorable Moments in Music 27:01 The Journey to Independence 30:50 Reflecting on a Long Career 34:04 A Fond Farewell
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Episode 6: Lee Hall - Part 1: From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
08/12/2025
Episode 6: Lee Hall - Part 1: From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
Join host Me'sha Bryan as she delves into the creative journey of acclaimed writer and lyricist Lee Hall. Known for his work on "Billy Elliot," Lee shares insights into his multifaceted career spanning film, theatre, and radio. Discover the stories behind his latest projects, including a new screenplay and a unique adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's "Mother Courage and Her Children." Key Highlights: Lee Hall's reflections on the success of "Billy Elliot" and its impact. The creative process behind adapting classic works for modern audiences. Lee's thoughts on collaboration and the importance of cultural roots in storytelling. An exclusive look into Lee's upcoming film project about pianist Glenn Gould. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the most influential voices in contemporary theatre and film. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes! 00:00 Introduction to Lee Hall and His Work 02:59 Collaboration and Cultural Exchange in Theatre 06:11 The Importance of Local Identity in Storytelling 09:08 The Writing Process: Inspiration and Craft 11:56 The Role of Collaboration in Theatre 15:02 Researching and Writing for Film 17:58 The Differences Between Theatre and Film 20:59 Family Background and Early Influences 24:10 The Joy of Collaborative Creation 26:56 Exploring Neurodiversity Through Storytelling
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Episode 5: John Altman - BAFTA and Emmy award winning composer, arranger and musician
07/29/2025
Episode 5: John Altman - BAFTA and Emmy award winning composer, arranger and musician
Join us as we delve into the fascinating career of John Altman, a BAFTA and Emmy award-winning composer and arranger. From working with legends like Diana Ross and Amy Winehouse to scoring iconic scenes in films like "Titanic" and "GoldenEye," John shares his incredible experiences and insights into the world of music composition. Key Highlights: John's early musical influences and family background. The story behind arranging "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" for Monty Python. Insights into composing for films and the unique challenges it presents. Anecdotes from working with renowned artists and directors. The evolution of music in commercials and TV shows. John’s Web and social links: John’s Altman's Book - Hidden Man - My many musical lives Instagram Spotify IMDb John’s Wikipedia Page: Me'sha and the Stage & Screen links: Stage & Screen Links: 00:00 Introduction 01:20 Early Musical Influences and beginnings 04:56 Career Progression and Collaborations 11:10 The Creative Process of Composing Music 16:40 Navigating Music Copyright and Originality 22:15 Collaborations with Directors and Artists 32:02 Navigating Royalties and Historical Context 33:30 Collaborating with Renowned Artists 35.24 The Birth of the 10 Room 38:35 Memorable Performances and Celebrity Encounters 40:05 The 10 Room’s Unique Atmosphere 46:32 The Evolution of Live Music Venues 49:24 The Importance of Community in Music 52:04 Reflections on Musical Connections 56:02 The Creative Process and Pressure 01:03:40 The Musical Journey of Titanic 01:07:57 The Haunting Legacy of Titanic’s Orchestra 01:09:55 Artistic Choice in Film and Music 01:11:59 Reflection on Career and (no) Regrets 01:15:57 The Importance of Collaboration 01:20:00 Recognition and Awards in the Music Industry
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Episode 4: Me'sha Bryan - Celebrating Our Podcast Journey
07/15/2025
Episode 4: Me'sha Bryan - Celebrating Our Podcast Journey
In this solo episode of Stage and Screen, Me’sha Bryan expresses gratitude to listeners and discusses the podcast's journey. She introduces herself, shares her background in acting and singing, and highlights the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into producing the show. Me’sha also celebrates the contributions of early guests and teases upcoming interviews with notable figures in the entertainment industry. Links: Takeaways Me’sha Bryan expresses heartfelt thanks to listeners for their support. The podcast has received thousands of views and positive feedback. Me’sha shares her diverse background as an actor, singer, and vocal coach. The production of the podcast is a collaborative effort with Darren handling technical aspects. Me'sha highlights the importance of early guests in establishing the podcast. She shares anecdotes about her friendships with guests Mike Nolan, Mark Buckley, and John Xue Zhang. Me’sha emphasises the significance of community engagement in the podcast's success. The episode provides insights into the behind-the-scenes workings of the podcast. Me’sha hints at exciting upcoming guests and topics for future episodes. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast through comments and subscriptions. Sound bites "It's a hot one!" "Thanks Mike, we love you!" "John is incredibly organised!" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 04:19 Behind the Scenes of Stage and Screen 06:03 Celebrating Early Guests 13:08 Upcoming Guests and Future Insights
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Welcome to Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan!
07/01/2025
Welcome to Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan!
Welcome to my brand new podcast, "Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan". I'll be interviewing actors, directors, singers, lighting and stage tech, writers... Basically, if they've got anything to do with the entertainment industry, I'll be speaking with them. My first 3 episodes are with Mike Nolan, formerly of 80s super group, Bucks Fizz, Mark Buckley, sound engineer to the stars including Sir Tom Jones, Dame Shirley Bassey, Ed Sheeran... and Jon Xue Zhang who starred alongside Michelle Yeoh in the Netflix series, The Brothers Sun and is currently filming the role of Ram-Man in the upcoming He Man, Masters of the Universe Movie! It'll be fun and you'll learn loads so stay tuned! Mxxx For more info visit:
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Episode 1: Mike Nolan - Part 1 - Bucks Fizz and Beyond
07/01/2025
Episode 1: Mike Nolan - Part 1 - Bucks Fizz and Beyond
In this engaging conversation, Mike Nolan, a member of the iconic 80s group Bucks Fizz, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Dublin to international fame. He discusses his early musical influences, the formation of Bucks Fizz, memorable encounters with celebrities like Princess Diana, and the life-altering accident that changed his perspective on life and performance. Mike also reflects on his successful pantomime career and the challenges he faced after the accident, showcasing his resilience and passion for entertainment. Mike's Social Links: Takeaways Mike Nolan's early passion for music began at age 16. Bucks Fizz won Eurovision with 'Making Your Mind Up' in 1981. Mike's memorable encounter with Princess Diana left a lasting impression. The accident Mike experienced led to significant changes in his life. He lost 50% of his vision due to the accident. Mike's pantomime career began in 1989 and continues today. He emphasizes the importance of wearing seatbelts for safety. Despite challenges, Mike remains passionate about performing. His humorous approach to mistakes in performances endears him to audiences. Mike values the memories and memorabilia from his career. Sound Bites "I was very upset about it." "I can't drive anymore." "I feel a right twat." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Nolan 01:49 Early Musical Journey 05:54 Formation of Bucks Fizz 09:40 Memories of Fame and Success 13:48 Charity Work and Personal Values 17:47 The Accident and Its Aftermath 23:29 Life After the Accident 29:24 Pantomime Career and Challenges
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Episode 2: Mark Buckley - The Art of Mixing: Insights from a Monitor Engineer
07/01/2025
Episode 2: Mark Buckley - The Art of Mixing: Insights from a Monitor Engineer
In this conversation Me'sha Bryan interviews Mark Buckley, a seasoned monitor engineer with nearly 30 years of experience in the music industry. Mark shares his journey from being a drummer to specializing in sound engineering, particularly in mixing monitor systems for high-profile artists. He discusses the technical aspects of his role, the importance of sound quality, and the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life. Mark also provides insights into the tools and techniques he uses, as well as the unique experiences that come with touring. Mark's Social Links: Takeaways Mark Buckley has nearly 30 years of experience as a monitor engineer. He transitioned from being a drummer to focusing on sound engineering. Investing in a sound course helped him specialize in in-ear monitors. Musicians today are more knowledgeable about their sound preferences. Mark's success is reflected in being fully booked for the next 12 months. Understanding the venue's acoustics is crucial for sound quality. The noise floor is an important factor in achieving clarity in sound. Mark emphasizes the importance of family time despite a busy touring schedule. He enjoys exploring new places while on tour. Every experience on the road contributes to his growth as an engineer. Sound Bites "You can't change the venue, it is what it is." "Every day's a school day." "It's a fun job, isn't it?" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Buckley and His Career 00:57 The Journey from Musician to Monitor Engineer 04:32 Understanding the Role of a Monitor Engineer 06:27 Techniques and Tools of the Trade 11:52 The Importance of Sound Quality and Noise Floor 14:31 Balancing Work and Family Life 16:01 Experiences on Tour and Personal Time 17:05 Managing Large Bands and Sound Checks
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Episode 3: Jon Xue Zhang - Ram Man in Masters of the Universe
07/01/2025
Episode 3: Jon Xue Zhang - Ram Man in Masters of the Universe
In this engaging conversation, Jon Xue Zhang, a multi-talented actor, writer, and producer, shares insights into his journey in the entertainment industry. He discusses his time management skills, the importance of life experiences in shaping his acting, and how meditation has played a crucial role in maintaining emotional balance. Jon reflects on the challenges of being typecast, the significance of networking, and the value of gratitude in his career. He also shares anecdotes from his experiences as a stunt performer and his excitement about his role in the upcoming He-Man film. Jon's Website and Social links: Instagram: Takeaways Jon emphasizes the importance of time management in balancing multiple roles. Life experiences enrich an actor's performance and authenticity. Meditation helps in emotional regulation and maintaining a positive mindset. Networking is crucial in the entertainment industry for visibility and opportunities. Recognition and awards should inspire continued hard work and improvement. Success in the film industry is often non-linear and requires patience. Every audition is a chance to practice and improve one's craft. Gratitude towards everyone involved in a project fosters a positive environment. Physicality can lead to typecasting, but versatility is key for an actor. Jon's journey reflects the importance of persistence and passion in achieving one's dreams. Sound Bites "I want to be a superhero." "I visualize my future self." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to John Shui Zhang 00:48 Time Management and Achievements 02:48 The Importance of Life Experience in Acting 05:46 Physicality and Typecasting in Roles 08:41 Designing Your Future Self 11:59 The Role of Meditation in Daily Life 14:43 Emotional Regulation and Self-Awareness 17:57 The Journey of a Stunt Performer 20:45 Martial Arts and Performance 23:53 Injuries and Safety on Set 26:52 The Art of Screen Fighting 29:39 Navigating the Industry and Networking 32:40 Recognition and Awards 35:41 Filming He-Man and Personal Reflections 38:40 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts
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