Overheard at Chica's Café

In this episode, I reflect on watching the Bad Bunny concert on Amazon and the pride of seeing Puerto Rican music honored on a global stage. From the African roots of Bomba, to the storytelling voice of Plena, to the worldwide reach of Salsa, I share both personal memories and insights from my background in Ethnomusicology. These rhythms are more than genres—they are history, resistance, and the heartbeat of Puerto Rico. References – Further Reading Bomba (Puerto Rico).WikipediaPlena: The People’s Newspaper.linkHistory of Plena.linkMusic of Puerto Rico.Wikipedia “Bomba Pa’ Siempre” by Jimmy Fontanez “Llena de Plena” by Jimmy Fontanez Used with appreciation and respect for the traditions of Puerto Rican music.

Welcome back to Overheard at Chica’s Café, where the coffee is strong, the conversation is flowing, and the occasional biscotti mysteriously disappears. Today, we’re talking about something every entertainer knows too well: what do we do between gigs? Those in-between stretches where your phone is quieter than a stagehand after a blackout cue. You know, people think actors, musicians, or performers are constantly in the spotlight. But the truth? A lot of our lives are spent waiting. Waiting for auditions, waiting for callbacks, waiting for the gig that finally makes your family stop asking when you’re going to get a “real job.” But here’s the secret: the waiting doesn’t mean we stop expressing ourselves. In fact, those in-between times are prime creative hours. Think about it—expression doesn’t only happen on stage or onset. It happens in the things you do to stay alive and sane. Podcasting? Yep. Writing a poem no one else will ever see? Absolutely. Starting a memoir even if the first line is just, “Dear Diary, Hollywood is weird”? Go for it. Maybe it’s designing or decorating your place. I once rearranged my living room so many times between gigs, my couch now qualifies as a traveling performer. It’s seen more blocking than some actors I know. And cooking counts, too! Whipping up a new recipe? That’s performance art with edible applause. Just don’t burn the garlic bread, or the critics will be harsh—and by critics, I mean your own smoke alarm. The point is: as entertainers, we need to express. If we cork the creativity while we’re waiting for the next “yes,” we start to feel like unopened soda cans—eventually, something’s going to explode. So, write that song. Start that podcast. Paint the wall neon green if it makes you laugh—though maybe check with your landlord first. Expression isn’t about waiting for permission. It’s about keeping your creative pulse alive so when that next gig does come along, you’re not rusty. You’re ready. So, whether you’re in rehearsal, in between jobs, or just staring at the ceiling fan wondering if it could double as a set piece, remember: creativity doesn’t clock in and out. It’s who you are. And until that next big gig shows up—express yourself anyway. You might surprise yourself with what you create. Thanks for joining me here at Chica’s Café. Don’t forget to grab a refill on your way out—and maybe, just maybe, rearrange your couch tonight. It might inspire your next masterpiece. "Modern Jazz Samba" Kevin MacLeod(incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Healing Power of Laughter and Escape"Because sometimes Soul Work Looks Like Binge-Watching in Pajamas* Let’s be real — not every healing moment looks like a spiritual retreat in the mountains or hours of deep journaling by candlelight. Sometimes, healing looks like stretchypants, a perfectly timed meme, and laughing until you wheeze over a ridiculous comedy sketch. I’m Sonia Iris Lozada — actor, poet, and over-thinker turned wisdom whisperer — and in this week’s episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, I talk about the underrated brilliance of laughter and the sacred pause of escapism. And no, I’m not talking about ignoring your feelings or bypassing reality. I’m talking about intentional joy. That full-body exhale that comes when you let go of the need to “fix” everything and just let yourself feel better for five minutes. A few years ago, I was going through grief, exhaustion, and burnout all at once. You know the kind — where even brushing your teeth feels like a workout. Instead of trying to meditate it away or “be productive,” I surrendered. I turned on a silly video. And I laughed. Not a polite giggle — I mean an ugly, snorting, can’t-breathe, just-peeled-myself-off-the-floor kind of laugh. That moment did more for my nervous system than any affirmation ever could. Escape Isn’t Weakness — It’s WisdomWe tend to treat escape like it’s a dirty word. But the truth is, conscious escapism is an emotional palate cleanser. Without it, we’d all be walking around like mannequins with unresolved childhood issues — smile painted on, dead behind the eyes. (Yeah… I said it.) Escaping into a feel-good story, a comedy binge, or a joyful distraction doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you know when to put the heavy stuff down.

This month on Overheard at Chica’s Café, we are delighted towelcome the insightful Albert Bramante, a seasoned talent agent, as well as the accomplished author of Rise Above the Script. In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of the current entertainment industry. Albertshares his expert perspective on the evolving landscape, shedding light on the myriad challenges performers face today. We also explore the subtle ways in which artists often unwittingly undermine their own potential, unraveling thecomplex web of self-sabotage that can hinder their careers. I assist performers, educators, and creators in unlockingtheir full potential by combining psychology, performance strategies, and AI to drive unstoppable progress. With over two decades of experience at the intersection of entertainment and education, I have coached actors to secure transformative roles, guided students to become top-tier professionals, and developed systems to help individuals overcome fear, imposter syndrome, and self-sabotage. As the CEO of Bramante Artists, I manage a diverse group oftalent in Broadway, film, television, commercials, and print. I focus on career development rather than simply booking roles, using psychological insights and industry strategies to foster long-term, purpose-driven success for talent. Inmy role as a college professor, I have taught psychology at Union County College and BMCC (CUNY), creating and delivering courses in Child Development, Personality, and Human Growth, with an emphasis on transformative learningexperiences rooted in practical application. As a practitioner of hypnosis and NLP, I provide powerful mental performance tools in my work, whether coaching actors, mentoring students, or speaking to creatives. My approach centers oneliminating internal barriers and enhancing clarity, confidence, and focus. Rise Above the Script – Available on Amazon I’m actively seeking partnerships in: Acting schools—Courses on the business of acting &mindset (based on my book) Colleges & universities—Guest lecturing, curriculumdevelopment, and student success initiatives Performance & wellness programs – Hypnosis + NLPintegration for creative peak performance AI in education & content—Training educators andcreators to work smarter with AI

AI & Entertainment: The Future of Creativity or the End of It? In this episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, Sonia delves into the growing influence of AI in the entertainment industry, including voice cloning, script writing, AI actors, and music creation. Is AI a tool that empowers artists, or is it taking their place? Engage in this intriguing discussion about the essence of creativity in an era where machines can replicate human imagination. Sonia shares her heartfelt, artistic insights as a voice actor and poet. So what do we do now? We listen We create with awareness We stay present With our voices and our why Because in the age of algorithms— The human soul is still The wildest art form

Welcome to another episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café. Itfeels like it’s been a lifetime, and to be completely honest, life has thrown quite a few curveballs my way lately. I know this is just a passing phase, but my aspirations of incorporating video into this season’s podcast? Well, they slipped through my fingers like grabbing for air. I’m healing from an injury,and my father’s health has taken a downturn, necessitating several trips to the bustling city of Chicago to be by his side. Although my heart was set on continuing the podcast, the clarity and drive to do so seemed to vanish like smoke in the wind. On the audition front, there’s little to report. I've had ahandful of commercial auditions, including some for voiceover work. I had a funny audition – love those because I love comedy. However, the world of TV andfilm feels like a barren desert for me, with productions migrating from California in search of better incentives elsewhere. In the legislative world, two bills have emerged inSacramento, known as AB 1138 and SB 630. According to the SAG-AFTRA website, this means the following: What’s in the Bills? These updates are designed to modernize California’s filmand TV tax incentive program and keep us competitive with other states and countries Raises base credit allocations from 20-25% to 35-40%, with higher incentives for productions outside Los Angeles. Expands eligibility to include more diverse genres and formats. Doubles application windows and adds flexibility to better align funding with real-time demand. Limits delays for recurring series to ensure timely production or funding reallocation. Provides modest year-over-year increases to reflect rising production costs. Increases the indie project cap and funding, supporting the vibrant, local storytelling that happens across the state. I’ll keep you posted on if these bills pass as we reallyneed more productions in California.Also, please get your copy of my book Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams.

Welcome to a brief episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, where we discuss all things entertainment. This month, we address the current state of the industry, which has been slowed down due to the devastating fires in Los Angeles. As a resident of this city, I have personally experienced the effects of the Sunset Fire and had to evacuate my home. But amidst the chaos and destruction, one thing remains constant: our love for entertainment. This is why I have decided to record this month's episode in a new format, a video that will be uploaded to both Spotify and YouTube. I hope you will tune in and join me as I discuss the future of entertainment and interview guests about their own journeys in this ever-changing industry. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive into the world of entertainment. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing you at Chica's Café for another lively and insightful discussion. See you soon!

The year of 2024 brought about a whirlwind of changes in society, politics, and spirituality. It was a time of both struggle and beauty, as people grappled with the shifting landscape of the world. And as we enter this new year. The anticipation for next year's guests was already building, with promises of even more exciting names from all corners of the entertainment industry. These guests would bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, sure to captivate and inspire audiences. A special thank you was in order for the 2024 guests who had graced the stage: Jane Shaw, a master sound designer whose work had brought plays to life; Alex Greenwood, a talented author and screenwriter; Mark Pearson, an experienced entertainment attorney; Dom Rambaran, a seasoned actor familiar with both the stage and screen; Jan Mullen, a music industry executive with an ear for talent; Jean Philippe Kaya, a multifaceted artist known for his skills as both a DJ and classical pianist; Inam Inamullah, a renowned artist, playwright, and poet; Matthew Carauddo, an author whose works had visually captured audience; Danny Mora, a dynamic actor whose performances left a lasting impression on all who saw them. and last but not least, Nathan Singer – Established Musician and author Their presence on the episodes had elevated it to new heights, setting the bar high for future guests to come. As the new year dawns, may it bring a wave of wonder and beauty, surrounding us with its flowing blessings. Let us embrace this fresh start with grateful hearts and open minds. And as we embark on this journey, let us never forget to express our gratitude for all that we have been given. Thank you for your support in the past year, and may our bond continue to grow stronger with each passing episode. Here's to another year of love, growth, and endless possibilities. Happy New Year! Poem/story As the clock struck midnight, a cascade of colorful fireworks burst through the darkness, illuminating the sky with bursts of light and sound. The air was filled with the scent of sulfur and the cheers of people hugging and celebrating around me. In that moment, I could feel a surge of emotions - excitement for the future, hope for what is to come, and determination to face whatever challenges may arise. As I looked around at my loved ones and supporters, I felt overwhelming gratitude for their unwavering presence in my life. Together, we stood on the cusp of a new year, ready to embark on a journey filled with unity, health, kindness, and resilience. We held onto the power of hope to fuel our dreams, the courage to stand up for what is right even in the face of adversity and fear, and the wisdom to guide us through the unknown path ahead. And as we stepped into the new year, may we find peace within ourselves, strengthen our relationships with love, fulfill our purpose in our work, and cherish joy in every single moment. Here's to a Happy New Year full of endless possibilities and endless love!

Welcome to another edition of Overheard at Chica's Café where we have the talented musician and author Nathan Singer as our special guest. He shares with us his experience with his band, "Whiskey Shambles", and his transition from professional musician to published author while still being a part of the band. We share a few laughs and discover some similarities in our lives. Don't miss this entertaining and humorous interview! Get Whiskey Shambles T-Shirts/Hoodies https://amzn.to/493HBKZ https://www.youtube.com/@whiskeyshambles https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyShambles/

Our guest on this episode is the lively and entertaining Danny Mora. His energy and charisma fills the conversation, and we knew this was going to be a lively and entertaining episode. With Halloween here, we couldn't resist talking about ghosts and all things supernatural. But it wasn't all fun and games - we delved into the current state of the film and television industry, discussing its future and how technological advancements like AI could potentially impact actors' opportunities and finances. We also shared our own experiences in the industry, including working with the talented Emilio Rivera on a play that brought us together with many other actors who have become lifelong friends. Don't miss out on this enlightening and entertaining conversation with our always fantastic guest, Danny Mora. Daniel Edward Mora is an actor known for his work in the multiple Oscar-winning Disney film COCO, A RECURRING ROLE IN THE Peabody Award-winning FX Network series THE BRIDGE, and another regular part in the web series SIN VERGÜENZA, which earned him a nomination to the Imagen Award for best actor in a series. A native of Los Angeles who was raised in San Diego, Mora joined the Army after graduating from high school. After spending three years as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he studied business administration at San Diego State University. Rediscovering a love for acting which had been planted in elementary school and later rekindled in a community college, Mora moved to Los Angeles to try his luck in the movie business. And lucky he has been. In addition to the acclaimed COCO and THE BRIDGE, his movie and television credits include: FRESH OFF THE BOARD, AVENGE THE CROWS, 911, THE MENTALIST and FILLY BROWN, a movie favorite that screened at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. Along with his acting, Mora is a proud Army veteran who is currently an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Reserve.

Our guest for this month's episode is Matthew Carauddo, an acclaimed author of the thrilling fantasy series "Diamond Dragons." In this podcast, we delve into his experience in acting and storytelling, as well as his impressive stage combat skills. Tune in for an engaging conversation! OVERVIEW: In addition to acting, writing, singing and voice-over, Matthew Carauddo has over 15 years of experience in fencing, staged combat and martial arts (Wing Chun Kung Fu, Jujitsu, Shotokan Karate, Jeet Kune Do, Tricking). Matthew is a licensed fencing instructor, approved and examined by the Federation Francaise D’Escrime (FFE). He has taught hundreds of group fencing classes and one-on-one lessons behind the mask throughout the California bay area at schools, academies of fencing, summer camps, and parks and recreational facilities. ORIGINS: Matthew began acting as a child when he was around 9 years old. He pursued on-stage performance throughout middle school, high school, and all throughout college. https://diamond-dragons.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@diamonddragonstale To see and hear some examples of Matthew's more recent acting, singing, and voice-over work, visit this link: https://youtube.com/channel/UC9dXWUhBtw0VI5nUOxl1JvA/videos

On this month's episode of the Overheard at Chica's Café podcast, we have a special guest, Inam Inamullah, an internationally acclaimed playwright. Our conversation delves into his works such as Khali Plate (Empty Plate) and Ramzan and Jannat, a hilarious adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Exciting news for fans: Ramzan and Jannat will be embarking on a tour starting in October 2024! As a renowned artist, we also take a deep dive into Inam's creative process when it comes to designing sets for his plays. Be sure to tune in to this lively and insightful episode. Inam, originally from South Asia, is a world-renowned artist, poet, and playwright. His work has earned international acclaim for its depth, creativity, and spiritual insight. Despite the challenges he faced early in life, including the hardships brought on by polio, Inam found solace in his art. Through resilience and a profound sense of creativity, he transformed his struggles into a source of beauty and inspiration. Inam's artistic journey is not confined to the canvas alone; his passion for the written word is evident in his prolific contributions to poetry and playwriting. His works reflect a deep appreciation for the ancient wisdom imparted by Sufi sages, which has unveiled the mysteries of the universe to him. A graduate of UCLA with an MBA, Inam also serves as a Life Coach, guiding others through their own journeys of transformation. His commitment to giving back to the community led him to found the Glitter of Hope Foundation, a local charity dedicated to supporting single mothers and orphans, primarily within the refugee community. Inam's latest work, "Whispers of The Flight," offers readers a profound journey that promises to illuminate the path to inner transformation. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a lover of allegorical tales, or someone on a quest for deeper understanding, this work ensures a transformative experience that resonates deeply with the soul. KHALI PLATE (EMPTY PLATE) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFg4hbN7Ks4&t=958s The actual play starts at 15:50 clock counter RAMZAN AND JANNAT (Romeo and Juliet) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcCPdcv_gW4 The plat starts are 12:50 or so. Amazon link: https://amzn.to/472w8tO - whispers of the flight Find out more about his artwork: https://www.inamgallery.com/ Whispers of Flight site: www.whispersoftheflight.com Inam’s life coaching site: www.elevatelife.guru

As an aspiring actor, studying the craft is an essential part of the journey. One aspect that actors often neglect is understanding the evolution of a character, from script to screen. We will explore the different approaches to acting and why stage acting is not the same as acting on screen. 1. "From Script to Screen: The Evolution of a Character" Every character begins on the pages of a script, but it takes a skilled actor to bring them to life. Understanding the backstory, motivations, and conflicts of a character is crucial in creating a believable and multi-dimensional performance. 2. "Breaking Down the Method: The Different Approaches to Acting" Actors have different methods and techniques when it comes to their craft. After I review the script I research what kind of work, interests and desires of the character. Whichever method you as an actor chooses, the key is to find a way to connect with the character and bring their truth to the role. 3. "Why Stage Acting is Not the Same as Acting on Screen" Stage acting and screen acting may seem similar, but they require different skill sets. On stage, an actor must project their voice & movements to reach a large audience, while on screen, subtlety is key. Also, stage actors have the luxury of a live audience, while screen actors must master the art of acting in front of a camera. 4. "The Dos and Don'ts of Auditioning: Tips from Industry Professionals" Auditions can be nerve-wracking, but they are an essential part of an actor's career. To help you ace your next audition, here are some tips from industry professionals. a. Arrive early and come prepared It's important to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your audition. This shows professionalism and gives you time to relax/mentally prepare yourself. Be sure to bring any required materials, and have your monologue (stage) or scene (film/TV) memorized. This is the same for Zoom & self-taping auditions, make sure your backdrop or room isn’t distracting while auditioning. Self-taping is another skill set. I find that having a reader with me as I self-tape is essential. Most of my bookings have come from having a fellow actor work with me. b. Dress appropriately Make sure your outfit is appropriate for the role you're auditioning for. Avoid wearing distracting clothing or accessories that could take away from your performance. c. Take direction well During an audition, the director or casting team may give you some direction on how to improve your performance. It's crucial to listen carefully and be open to their suggestions, as this shows that you are easy to work with and adaptable. Taking direction doesn’t mean your performance isn’t good but that they see something in you and want see what you can do with adjustment. d. Show confidence but don't be cocky Confidence is key in auditions, but there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Show off your skills without coming across as overconfident or arrogant. I’ve seen actors be overconfident where it projects as dismissive. Always be kind. e. Don't make excuses If something doesn't go as planned during your audition, don't make excuses or apologize excessively. Stay focused on your performance and adapt as best as you can. Take a deep breath to focus and center yourself. f. Be respectful of others Be respectful of those working behind the scenes, including casting directors, assistants, and other actors in the waiting room. Being kind and considerate goes a long way in making a good impression. g. Have fun! Auditions can be stressful, but remember to have fun with it! Enjoy the experience of performing and showcasing your talent. I have found in my auditions when I have fun with it, confidence shines through. Remember auditions are an opportunity to learn and grow as an actor. Keep these tips in mind and go into your auditions with confidence and a smile. Sonia Iris Lozada Blog Grieving Dreams Episode

The newest installment of Overheard at Chica's Café Podcast is an exciting interview with the multi-talented Jean Philippe Kaya. As a DJ, classical pianist, musician, and producer, Kaya has made waves in the music industry with his versatile skills and unique blend of genres. Listeners can expect to hear about his journey into the world of DJing, insights into his successful music career, and valuable advice for those looking to break into these creative fields. Don't miss this chance to gain insight from one of the most dynamic artists in the business. French native KAYA, born Jean-Philippe Kaya, skillfully blends his classical piano and composition background with a fervent passion for electronic music to push sonic boundaries. With roots from Cameroon and Congo, and having lived across three countries and two continents, the Los Angeles-based DJ/Producer draws from a rich tapestry of influences to craft his unique sound. KAYA discovered his love for DJing during the pandemic, rapidly gaining recognition for his signature sets blending nostalgic 90s piano house with high energy drops. He has performed across North America and Europe, sharing the stage with renowned artists like Deadmau5, MEDUZA, KREAM, Hugel, Joel Corry, Todd Edwards, A-Trak, and Habstrakt to name a few. His production prowess is showcased through his collaborations on prominent labels such as Ultra Records, Groove Bassment and Quincy Boy Records, garnering support from industry heavyweights including Pete Tong, SNBRN, Kaleena Zanders, Win and Woo, and Snakehips. KAYA’s music has resonated at some of the world’s biggest festivals including Coachella, EDC Las Vegas, Beyond Wonderland, and Electric Forest. With an upcoming mixtape on Phantom’s record label, Speed Dial, KAYA shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to hone his craft both in the studio and on stage, solidifying his place in the electronic music scene on fan at a time. https://kayamusique.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Kaya.musique/ https://www.instagram.com/kaya.musique/

Our special guest on the latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café is Jan Mullen, a seasoned music industry executive with an incredible wealth of experience. Her career spans from the alternative punk bands in the vibrant 80's music scene to collaborating with renowned jazz musicians. In this highly informative and fascinating episode, Jan shares her vast knowledge and insights into the ever-evolving music industry. Listen as she takes us through her personal journey in the world of music and life. If you've ever been curious about the inner workings of the music business, this is an episode you won't want to miss. A 25-year veteran of the music industry, Jan Mullen has gained an in-depth knowledge of today’s music business. Artist management of several Top10 performers of the 90’s and 2000’s, as well as production of major international tours and festivals, brings a wealth of experience invaluable to the multifaceted entertainment industry of today. The successful artist management of such iconic performers as Seal, Mariah Carey, Counting Crows, Christian Sands, Keyon Harrold, Wallace Roney to name a few. – all multiple-Grammy winning, multi-Platinum recording artists - built a substantial and intuitive understanding of the creative process, guiding it to its unique and highest potential. Prior to launching All-In Music Jan brought this extensive mainstream music industry experience and vision to the vital jazz community, serendipitously becoming director of The Side Door Jazz Club in Connecticut for its first four years, establishing the club as one of the top rated and respected jazz venues in the country. She is also the Artistic Director of the iconic Scullers Jazz Club in Boston, celebrating 30 years of presenting the best music and artists in the field. Born in the UK, Jan began her career in London and Paris, moving to NYC to work with Island Records. She served in artist promotion and marketing at Island/Def Jam and then Chrysalis Records NY offices, and as Artist Relations consultant for the Zoom Corporation and NAMM convention. Her natural affinity for artist management began as product manager for several years at Columbia Records in New York, her roster included many of the label's most successful artists of the 2000s. Throughout the course of her career, Jan has consistently championed creativity, bringing all the honed skills of management, artist relations, creative marketing and promotion strategies to work on the artists behalf. International tour production and executive producing of recordings and documentary films were a natural and valuable extension of a multifaceted career in the business. Jan's first love is that of nurturing and promoting artist’s talent and vision, believing in providing them with, and exposing them to, the optimum environment to support and inspire their unique creativity to thrive and excel. Proud and honored to represent such brilliantly talented artists, All-In Music, LLC is fully dedicated to that cause! Linkedin

On our latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, airing in April 2024, we are joined by Dominic Rambaran, a fellow actor whom I have known for many years. We delve into his experiences in the world of acting and discuss the humorous and challenging moments he has encountered on stage and in the industry. Tune in to gain insight into the journey of an actor's life. Hailing from the East Coast of the United States, he was raised in a supportive family and attended Phillips Academy before pursuing higher education at Northwestern University and Carnegie Mellon University. With a strong passion for theater and the arts, he achieved success in regional productions, followed by a stint on Broadway. He then ventured overseas to work for various entertainment venues before settling in Los Angeles, where he has since appeared in television shows, films, and numerous commercials.

The episode went on for longer than expected, so I decided to add a bonus segment where we discuss the impact of AI on actors and writers, as well as concerns about AI during the strikes.

This month's special guest on Overheard at Chica's Café is entertainment lawyer Mark Pearson. Although this episode may be longer than others, it is packed with fascinating discussions. We delve into the legalities and requirements for success in the music, film, and entertainment industries. AI and its impact on creative property also takes center stage in our conversation. If you're interested in learning about thriving in the constantly evolving entertainment world, this episode is a must-listen. And as a bonus, we go into further depth on the topic of AI due to the extended length of this episode in a separate episode. Mark A. Pearson is an attorney at ARC Law Group, where he advises creative, talented and entrepreneurial clients on legal issues in the entertainment industry. Mark considers himself lucky to work with Oscar nominated filmmakers, Grammy award recipients, Emmy winning talent, and lot of clients he acknowledges are, “far more talented than I am.” In another life, Mark spent a decade as television producer, which he says provides a unique perspective on the needs of his creative clients. As he explains, “I thrive on being a small part of helping creatives achieve their goals. My work is very, very rewarding.” When not working with his clients, Mark advocates for the Recording Academy and serves on the Board of Governors for the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Emmy® Award) where he recently received the Governor’s Citation for his service to the Academy. You can reach Mark Pearson on his website: http://www.arclg.com/

In this episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, Alex Greenwood shares an intriguing story about his writing journey and his encounter with a producer who requested him to write a treatment. Alex delves into the challenges and excitement of the process, providing valuable insights for aspiring writers. Throughout the episode, Alex and his previous co-host on the podcast, Chica and the Man, share their signature humor, resulting in a lighthearted and entertaining conversation. Join them as they laugh their way through this captivating episode, showcasing their strong friendship and passion for storytelling. J. Alexander Greenwood is a prolific author celebrated for his John Pilate Mystery Series and the Western novel "Big Cabin and Dispatches from the West," co-authored with the late Robert E. Trevathan. Alex's notable nonfiction includes "The Podcast Option" and "Kickstarter Success Secrets." He has produced the Mysterious Goings On podcast since 2016 and hosts the PR After Hours podcast. He has also contributed to “Chica and the Man” and “Going to Killing City,” a true crime show. After fourteen years at the helm of his Kansas City PR agency, in 2024, he accepted a leadership position at a major university. To learn more about his work, visit jalexandergreenwood.com. His latest book is: Pilate's Faith: Book Eight in the John Pilate Mystery Series

Happy New Year to all! As the year comes to an end, I want to wish everyone an amazing New Year filled with love, joy, prosperity, and most importantly, good health. We often take our health for granted, but it truly is the foundation for enjoying life's many blessings. Overheard at Chica's Café launched in July of 2022 as a way to bring some lightheartedness back into our lives after three years of pandemic struggles. In the upcoming year, we plan on adding more interviews at the suggestion of one of our listeners. These interviews will feature individuals from all areas of the entertainment industry, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their journeys. We've also discussed important topics such as the writers' and actors' strike in several episodes this year. Sadly, our sister podcast, Chica and the Man, came to an end in September due to our busy schedules. It was a bittersweet goodbye since my co-host Alex is a dear friend of mine. Overheard at Chica's Café is all about my friends, and I can't wait to introduce you to more of them. And not just my friends - I'll also be featuring associates I have worked with in the past. This will not only be entertaining but also educational as you'll get insight into what it takes to be in these positions in the entertainment industry. So, stay tuned for more episodes where friends meet at Chica's Café. This year we had amazing friends visit the café and I want to thank the following guests. Che Rae Adams – Let’s Talk Theater – Artistic Director of PlayPen in Philadelphia. Che’Rae has been a longtime friend. Kelly Keefe – Multi-Disciplinary Artist – Author, Musician and founder of Heartspace.co a mindfulness platform. Steve Walker – Theatrical Agent – Connor Ankrum & Assoc. in Los Angeles Marabina Jaimes – Actor, Voiceover Artist & Producer and I got signed to my voiceover agents DDO LA. because she helped me with my demo tape. I’m very grateful. Jane Witzenburg – Musician and Music teacher Doreen Calderon – Actor, Fatal Attraction Kristi Schultz – Theatre Maker, Director & Educator Norma Maldonado - Actor Denise Sanchez – Actor, Bosch Legacy – I play her mom on the Bosch Legacy TV Series. The links to the episodes are on our website: https://overheardatchicascafe.com/chicas-cafe-podcast/ Thank you and many blessings and Happy New Year.