The Artist Pivot

On this episode we're joined by the multi-talented Jillian Vitko. Jillian is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry, balancing an impressive array of talents from acting to producing. We get candid about the often unpredictable path of an artist, where there's no guarantee of a finish line and the only constant is change. We'll talk about the courage it takes to create your own work, the perseverance needed when knocking on doors, and the personal revelations that come from the journey itself. Jillian opens up about the hurdles she's faced and provides insightful advice for those brave enough to take things one step at a time toward believing in their voice. Get ready to be inspired as we explore the importance of creating your own opportunities, facing fears, and tending to your career goals, just like pots on the stove. We aren’t just talking about following a career but creating an ecosystem where your artistry can thrive on your own terms. It's time to challenge the inner critic and celebrate the individuality of your artistic journey Patreon: http://patreon.com/theartistpivotpodcast Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Jillian Vitko Instagram: @jillianvitko Website: https://www.jillianvitko.com/ Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Today's episode features none other than the talented Sani—a Nigerian-born recording artist, producer, and entrepreneur with a range of talents spanning from fashion to painting and of course, music. Sani shares his heartfelt gratitude for life's journey and the artistic paths he's walked down. His story is one of resilience and continuous self-improvement. We unpack the layers of Sani's creative process, and touch on the very real emotional and financial roadblocks artists like Sani face—like the initial skepticism from friends and the sting of unresponsive potential collaborators. And let's not forget the leap of faith from a successful fashion venture into the pulsing world of music, driven in part by a big move from Nigeria to the city of Amsterdam. It's all about celebrating these shifting tides and understanding the power of persistence, collaboration, and the willingness to embrace change. So let's dive in, and who knows—you might just find a piece of your own artistic puzzle. Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Sani Instagram @saninogie Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Dasani2k Youtube: @Sani4k Spotify: @Sani Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Today we have a return guest! My friend James Roberts IV is back for episode 602. He was on the show before in season 1 and his episode was 102. How fitting! It's been four exciting years since we last talked on the podcast, and oh, how the tables have turned and twirled for both James and me! James has had his fair share of pivots – from musical theater stages to the tranquility of yoga studios, and back again to his love for performing. We talk about the balancing act of personal life, navigating the world of creating your own space to express yourself, and the struggle with imposter syndrome that many artists, including ourselves, can relate to. James and I also share some of our cruise ship escapades – the beauty, the politics, and how it's expanded our world view, shaking up our American sensibilities. Now through it all, James stands by the poignant realization of the importance of being true to oneself, and sharing art that reflects one's genuine experiences. Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast James Roberts IV Website: https://www.jamesrobertsiv.com/ Instagram: @jamesroberts96 Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/robja96 Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey Part of the Boundless Audio Network

This episode features actress, musician, and stop motion animator Kellianna Jay who has been seen on stages internationally including the UK, Dubai, and Germany. Noted productions include Dreamgirls (UK Tour), TINA The Musical (Germany), Hairspray (Symphony of the Seas) and Fantastic Mr Fox (UK Tour). We explore the twists and turns of a life in the arts, diving into the power of perseverance, reflection, and the necessity of having multiple income streams if you're a performer. She shares her candid thoughts on the challenges of aging in the performance industry, including the physical demands of shows like "Hairspray" and the daunting task of overcoming fears, like her fear of flying – all for the love of the craft. We discuss how we've remained resilient, crafted miniature families in every cast, and why detaching from rejection is integral to our paths as artists. Kellianna offers a glimpse into her musical roots, starting with the French horn, and her journey into musical theater, So, Sip on some tea (as Kellianna does because she's British) or grab a glass of water – this episode dives into how we cherish the bonds formed on and off the stage, embracing the complexities of our industry, and hopefully inspires you to take up space in the world. Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Kellianna Jay Instagram: @xan.vox @xanvi_animations Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@XANVI_ANIMATIONS Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Introducing The World Is Your Stage Podcast! The World Is Your Stage Podcast is an exploration of the intersection between travel and the performing arts. This is a podcast focused on education and inspiration on world travel, the acting business, and the lifestyle that encompasses both. Including travel tips and reviews, interviews with travel experts and planners, and performing artists that travel for work. Episodes drop every other Friday. Visit the website: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast-1 Follow The World Is Your Stage on your favorite podcast player: Choose Any Player Follow The World Is Your Stage on Instagram @worldisyourstagepod

Today, we revisit episode 210 where Ayana had the profound pleasure of sitting down with the multitalented Ceasar F. Barajas—an award-winning singer, dancer, actor, and so much more. Ceasar is not only a force in the entertainment industry but also a beacon of light in the wellness community. This international wellness mentor, trauma-sensitive certified yoga instructor, and meditation teacher has been making waves with his advocacy for mental health awareness and his support for causes like the Veterans Yoga Project. In this episode, Ceasar opens up about the importance of mental and physical well-being, sharing insights from his personal journey, which includes managing his own mental health challenges. Ceasar takes us along on his transformational path from a frenzied pre-pandemic lifestyle, through the forced pivot brought about by COVID-19, to the launch of his subscription-based website dedicated to guided meditations and coaching. The crux of our conversation today shines a light on embracing imperfections, prioritizing self-care, and the power of our breath to connect us all. Ceasar shares how kindness, empathy, and humility can greatly influence our professional engagements and everyday lives—reminding us of the everlasting importance of supporting one another through life's trials and triumphs. It's a heartening dialogue that promises to enrich, enlighten, and inspire you—whether you're an artist or simply someone on the journey of life. So take a deep, intentional breath, and let it guide you into this episode—because today, we're celebrating the beautiful pivot of Ceasar F. Barajas. New Podcast Merchandise is available! A coffee mug, notebook, and T-shirt with the definition of a Pivoting Artist is out now! Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Ceasar F. Barajas Website: https://thejourneywithceasar.com/ Instagram: @ceasarfbarajas Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Today we are going to revisit Episode 205, where I sat down with the multi-talented Tommy Coleman – an actor, voice-over artist, and educator. Tommy opens up about the rigorous demands of the industry and the wisdom of setting aside that critical 1% for oneself to avoid the dreaded burnout. He shares his journey through the pandemic and we have a meaningful conversation about growth and personal investment. Tommy's career has been a kaleidoscope of pivots—from an MA in musical theater performance in Scotland to small screen appearances and commercial voice overs in the States. Yet, it's his adaptability and desire to give back through teaching that resonates in this discussion. How an overlooked student reminded him of the impact and purpose of his work, teaching us all to be ready for opportunities to bloom. As always, we'll uncover insights and advice for fellow creatives, learning from Tommy's journey to seize those sunlit moments in life. So tune in, soak up his experiences, and maybe find a pivot of your own. New Podcast Merchandise is available! A coffee mug, notebook, and T-shirt with the definition of a Pivoting Artist is out now! You can get your merch at https://www.ayanabey.com/merch. Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Tommy Coleman Website: https://www.tommycoleman.net/ Instagram: @tommytoocool Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Podcast Listener Survey out and available at https://forms.gle/vDERiyrHMxUbw8Vv7 until Wednesday Feb 7th, 2024, 11:59 pm (EST). As a thank you for taking the survey you will be entered into a drawing to win The Artist Pivot Podcast Logo Tote Bag, Today we are going to revisit Episode 408, where I sat down with the multi-talented Queen Shereen Macklin – an actress, educator, and healer, who's carving out a unique path in the arts as an advocate for women of color. Shereen's story is one of courageous transformation; from pursuing a chemistry degree to fulfill family expectations to embracing her true passion in the arts. In our conversation, we dive deep into Shereen's pivotal choice to only engage with projects that resonate with her soul, a decision that’s paved the way for a career filled with purpose and joy. We examine the power of being a multi-hyphenate artist and why embracing our varied interests is nothing to be ashamed of. Shereen gets candid about her spiritual journey, self-love, and how these profound experiences have shaped her as a person and professional, especially in her impactful roles as an instructor and coach. From the streets of New York to the vibrant scenes of Los Angeles and the soulful ambiance of New Orleans, Shereen recounts her move during the pandemic in search of authenticity and alignment with her core values. We also explore the necessity of risk-taking and trusting oneself to dive into unknown territories. Prepare to be inspired by Shereen's nuggets of wisdom and heartfelt insights into living a life that's true to who you are. This is not just a conversation, it’s a lifeline to anyone standing at the crossroads, ready to pivot toward their own definition of success. New Podcast Merchandise is available! A coffee mug, notebook, and T-shirt with the definition of a Pivoting Artist is out now! You can get your merch at ayanabey.com/merch. Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Shereen Macklin Instagram:@iamqueenshereen Website:https://www.queenshereen.com/ Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Hello! There is a new Podcast Listener Survey out and available at https://forms.gle/vDERiyrHMxUbw8Vv7 until Wednesday Feb 7th, 2024, 11:59 pm (EST). As a thank you for taking the survey you will be entered into a drawing to win The Artist Pivot Podcast Logo Tote Bag,. New Podcast Merchandise is available! A coffee mug, notebook, and T-shirt with the definition of a Pivoting Artist is out now! You can get your merch at ayanabey.com/merch. The Patreon page is also getting closer to launch in preparation of Season 6! Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Happy New Year! It’s 2024! Thank you all for rocking with The Artist Pivot Podcast for the last 5 seasons. Season 6 will be coming out soon with a mix of solo and guest featured episodes. Additionally there will be a patreon launched where you can see the video version of this podcast, get bonus episodes, and more. The monthly newsletter will now also have a spotlight on artists whose pivots I find intriguing. The new podcast merch is being spotted out and about in the world and the second line of merch will be out soon! To stay up-to-date with all the happenings around the podcast please subscribes to the newsletter at https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Podcast merch: https://www.ayanabey.com/merch Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtistPivotPodcast Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Part of the Boundless Audio Network

On this bonus episode I recap some points I made when I was a guest on the Station Square Podcast. The points I cover in the recap are: 1. You’re A Human Being Not a Human Doing 2. We are more prepared for our pivots than we think 3. If something doesn’t bring you joy then why are you doing it? 4. Take the opportunities handed to you If you want to watch the episode on youtube here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZ0nRwM7AKA&t=1243s New coaching available: https://www.ayanabey.com/coaching\ The Official Merchandise of The Artist Pivot Podcast Get your t-shirt, tote bag, or wine tumbler at: https://the-artist-pivot.printify.me/products Thank you for supporting an independent podcaster! Get in touch: Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/

The Official Merchandise of The Artist Pivot Podcast is now available! Get your t-shirt, tote bag, or wine tumbler at: https://the-artist-pivot.printify.me/products Thank you for supporting an independent podcaster! Get in touch: Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/

Annnnd….. That’s a wrap on Season 5! On this episode I discuss some of the themes and through lines of Season 5. Including Give yourself permission, Give yourself grace, and Be in gratitude as much as you can. My quote from this season is: "Take wisdom, insight, and perspective from others and create your own blueprint with it." -Ayana Major Bey Thank you to all my Season 5 guests, my editor Kieran, and to YOU the listeners and supporters of the show! I hope you have been encouraged and uplifted by it! The Artist Pivot Podcast is taking a winter hiatus and Season 6 will launch in 2024! Get in touch: Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand

From the conversation I had with Artist and Creative strategist Lennon Bone these are may takeaways. First embrace discomfort. There is a reason you are uncomfortable and can you see it as a sign that you're on the right path or will you continue to collect negative leaning evidence in your head to keep you in your comfort zone? Second, hindsight is 20/20 but discovering your own personal and professional through line my ad in not having to look back all the time. Finally, success is figuring out how to get out of your own way and finding joy in what you're doing. Lennon is the husband of an amazing illustrator and a father to two amazing girls. Being a professional musician for 15 years, touring over 14 countries, playing festivals like Austin City Limits, Lollapalooza and Sundance Film Festival, moving into the realm of YouTube strategy where I helped creators grow their audiences by millions, all organically, and now the founder and CEO of Stop The Starving Artist. A company that helps artists and creatives build an audience that supports their work both emotionally and monetarily using social media and heartfelt sales strategies. Get in touch: Lennon Bone Website: https://www.stopthestarvingartist.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stopthestarvingartist Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand

I had the pleasure of talking with teaching artist Jillian Paige and these are some of my takeaways. First, learn how to pace yourself on this artistic journey. There will be ebbs and flows and being able to handle them with grace will help you because a full artistic life is gonna involve pivots and changes. Next, find comfort in knowing you did the thing you set out to do, celebrate that achievement, and then move onto the next thing without any regrets because you did it. Finally, don't force finding your groove. It’s hard not to put pressure on yourself or your new venture to succeed but letting it blossom while you sustain yourself financially in another way may actually help the process. Jillian Paige is the Founder of Meisner in Music, the premier class to infuse the Meisner technique with singing. Jillian received her master’s in music theatre from Oklahoma City University, her bachelor’s in classical vocal performance from Belmont University, and studied Meisner under Terry Martin (a direct pupil of Meisner’s), and Ted Wold. Jillian is based out of New York City and has performed with companies such as Actors Theatre of Louisville, the Nashville Opera, and Kentucky Opera. She is passionate about helping singers maintain beautiful singing while achieving emotional freedom and impulsivity in the moment. Get in touch: Website: https://www.jillianpaige.com/ Instagram: @jillianpaige, @meisnerinmusic Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand

I had the pleasure of talking with actor and actor career coach Talia Thiesfield and these are some of my takeaways. Pivots are both internal and external and can be big or small but either way trust your own path. Next, once you’ve learned how to learn the lesson in a pivot you can then carry over lessons from pivot to pivot and set boundaries. You don’t have to go back to something that you pivoted to before just because you find yourself needing to change again. Set your boundaries. Last but not least, be in gratitude as much as you can. Pivoting is expanding and look at it this way you survived the last pivot you made and you're here for another pivot to happen. Talia is a full-time actor, voiceover artist, and talent & career coach. She currently appears as recurring character NYPD Rep Maya on FBI (CBS), and has guest starred on various television shows including Succession & Veep (HBO), Limitless & Kevin Can Wait (CBS), and Suspscion (Apple TV+). I am also an alum of the NBC Diversity Showcase. She stars in the award-winning film Inez & Doug & Kira, wherein she played the title role of Kira opposite Michael Chernus and Tawny Cypress. Additionally, her voice can be heard in multiple vocal modalities for various commercials, video games, and animated projects including a three-season run as “B” in DreamWork’s Trollstopia. A lover of new works, She has originated and helped develop a number of roles for Off Broadway and regional houses. These include the world premieres of Ring Twice For Miranda at NY City Center off-Broadway (Anouk), How To Break at Seattle's renowned Village Theater (Dr. Aden), Windfall at Bay Street Theater directed by Jason Alexander (Jaqueline Vanderbilt), and Cleopatra: The Pop Experience at Theater for the New City (Cleopatra). She is currently nominated for a Heilman & Haver Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (How To Break at Village Theater). Previously, she received a Broadway World Regional Award for my performance as Daniela in In The Heights (Dallas Theater Center) and I am a Connecticut Critics Circle nominee, having earned a nod for Best Actress in a Musical for my portrayal of Aldonza in Man of La Mancha (Ivoryton Theater). As a coach, educator, and consultant she’s been a guest lecturer at Columbia University, Rutgers University (Mason Gross School of the Arts), Montclair State University, The University of Connecticut, The No Marking Society (founded by Kate Lumpkin, CSA), and The Broadway Collective. She is the founder of The Act of Style Coaching which has gained wide popularity and the respect and collaboration of industry professionals nationwide on Instagram. She uses her own trademarked method to provide acting, branding, and career coaching that combines business savvy with craft in empowering actors to feel more confidence, pride, and authenticity in their work. Get in touch: Talia Thiesfield Website: https://www.taliathiesfield.com/ Instagram: @theactofstylecoaching Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand

From the conversation I had with actress, voiceover artist, and coach Simone Serra these are my takeaways. Expectations are a funny thing. If we can come into more experiences in our life without expectations we make space to receive and have the freedom to try what comes. Next, Success is an ever changing landscape and it encompasses both your personal and professional life. It's ok to ask yourself, what does it mean to me to be successful and questioning whether your own limiting beliefs are getting in the way of your definition. And finally where focus goes energy flows so where are you focusing? Simone is Voiceover Artist and Coach who has cultivated a successful Voiceover career over the last five years, having her voice streamed on all media platforms from Spotify to TikTok. With an extensive resume of working with clients from The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, Nutella, Dominos and Ulta Beauty, she attributes her accomplishments and success to the many years she dedicated to her education and training. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Theater Studies at Montclair State University, followed by completing a two-year conservatory training at the Maggie Flanigan Studio, which specializes in the Meisner Technique. Soon she will add adjunct professor to her resume and begin teaching a Beginner Voiceover Workshop at Tisch Drama School this fall. Her pivot into the Voiceover world and the following successes have given her the confidence to reverse course and begin to pursue acting on stage and film again. Get in touch: Simone Serra Website: https://www.simoneserra.com/ Instagram: @mssimoneserra Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand

I had the pleasure of talking with actor, director, and producer Faith Boles and these are some of the takeaways from our conversation. First complacency can ruin your career, if you find yourself being nudged to make a change you probably should, second, if you do have fear about doing something new or different, ask yourself how can I transmute that fear into positive motivating energy and what is something positive that can happen if you do it, and last we sometimes can project finality on to pivoting or changing and that can be very limiting to our creativity. Originally from Savannah, GA, Faith Boles is an Orlando FL based actor, director and producer that has been in the theater industry for the past 20 years. She has been a recipient of 2022 Orlando Critics Pick for Best Actor, Broadway World awards and nominations, as well as the ASCAP Irving Berlin Scholarship. Faith can be seen on stage at various performance venues at Walt Disney World and theaters in the Orlando area. However, she mainly works "behind the table" creating/directing projects and shows as a director and producer for New Generation Theatrical - a theater production company in downtown Orlando. Get in touch: Faith Boles Instagram: @FaithLBoles New Theatrical: www.newgentheatrircal.org/shows Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newgentheatrical/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewGenTheatrical Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Speaking with author, actor, and artist Andrew Norlen led me to these takeaways. First, people tend to see you before you see yourself. They can see your talents and greatness before you do, and it can be hard to believe them when they tell you, but once you do believe you can put yourself out into the world. Second, don’t judge yourself too hard on your journey, give yourself grace and trust that the dots will eventually be connected. And finally more for me does not mean less for you, more means I get to experience a different version of myself that is taking up the space I was meant to. Andrew has performed for audiences all over the world and on tour across the United States with the Broadway hit Kinky Boots! Originally from Troutdale, Oregon, Andrew is a New York City-based artist, with his BFA from The Boston Conservatory of Music with an emphasis in dance and directing. Andrew is the author and creator behind When the Lights Are Bright Again: letters and images of loss, hope and resilience. A book of pandemic testimonials from the Broadway and theater community worldwide, published in 2021 by Applause Books. Andrew is a proud, queer man who strives to normalize the power in authentic vulnerability. His upcoming memoir—Finding Brave, is fueled by his deep desire to champion young adults and teens to build tools, live their truth out loud, and not apologize for who they are. He travels around the country with "Resilience: the workshop"—to inspire, coach, train, amplify, educate, teach, open up to, level with, demystify and empower the next generation of youth to learn to foster their own trademark to their success and longevity—in both career and this crazy, but beautiful thing called life. Get in touch: Andrew Norlen Website: https://www.andrewnorlen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anorlen/ Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsor: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network

Here are some takeaways from the conversation I had with actor, singer, and cabaret artist Sierra White. First, sometimes we need a hard reset, and a reset doesn’t mean you are failing, it means you are being led to a new part of yourself and career. Next, do not diminish your accomplishments by letting imposter syndrome say you aren’t capable, and last we have to actively remind ourselves not to say no to the gifts afforded to us. Sierra was born, raised, and is still based in the greatest city in the world, Chicago, IL. Their favorite things to do when they were little was to tell stories, dress up, and sing. The fact that they managed to make that into a career makes the little kid in then over the moon everyday. Get in touch: Sierra White Website: https://www.thesierrawhite.com/bio Instagram: @thesierrawhite Ayana Major Bey Website: www.ayanabey.com Instagram: @ayanambey, @theartistpivot Monthly Newsletter: https://www.ayanabey.com/podcast Show Sponsor: Get 10% off your first month with BetterHelp at https://betterhelp.com/artistpivot ******* Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey Editor: Kieran Niemand Part of the Boundless Audio Network