Story and Craft with Marc Preston

On this episode of Story & Craft, Marc sits down with actor Meaghan Rath. We take a moment to discuss the Zen of all things Hawaii, as Meaghan looks back on living on Oahu for “Hawaii Five-0,” sharing favorite beaches, island food takes, and the unique experience of filming with locations shut down just for the crew. She also talks about landing AMC’s “The Audacity,” playing Anushka Bhattachera-Phister, a chief ethicist in a corrupt tech world, and what the show taught her about privacy and data. Along the way, they cover her Montreal upbringing, mixed Jewish/Indian-Catholic heritage, early discovery as a teen actor, creative interests, a haunted childhood home, and her go-to comforts like ramen, the ocean, and a great TV binge. 03:36 Hawaii Five-0 Memories 05:55 Beaches and Island Food 09:30 How She Got Cast 11:56 Canada Roots and Family 16:25 Finding Acting Early 19:59 Meeting Her Husband 23:43 The New Series “Audacity” 28:50 Tech Culture and Social Media 34:14 Privacy Wake Up Call 35:29 Haunted House Memories 37:48 Drama Comedy Balance 39:14 Dense Scripts And Accent 42:50 The Seven Questions

On this episode of “Story and Craft”, Marc sits down with actor and writer Johnny Ray Gill (“Cross” Season 2 on Prime Video) for a wide-ranging conversation about Gill’s Portland roots in an all-Black Northeast community, his working-class family, and early artistic start in spoken-word poetry inspired by the film “Slam.” Gill shares how a rites-of-passage program shaped his cultural awareness, how an internship with writer Mike Rich opened doors, and how his path led from USC film school to Temple and then UC San Diego’s theater program. He recounts booking “Harry’s Law,” reflects on hip hop’s shift as commerce overtakes art, and explains why he feels artists owe audiences truth. Gill discusses his climate-focused script “Laying Pipe,” his love of animals and nature, learning Spanish, and the serendipitous way he was offered his role in “Cross.” 02:24 From Portland to LA 03:23 Working Class Roots 04:48 Choosing the Arts 08:09 Spoken Word Origin Story 11:28 College Path and Drama School 15:10 Hip Hop and Early Influences 17:10 Art Versus Commerce 20:25 Screenwriting and Truth 22:03 Pitching Laying Pipe 29:45 How Cross Came Together 34:31 Persistence and Knowing Your Vocation 36:31 New Passions Nature and Animals 40:03 Plants Pets Travel 41:40 Indigenous Symbiosis 44:26 Cross Writing Process 45:17 Bobby Trey’s Capitalism 48:34 Shreveport Food Authenticity 51:06 The Seven Questions

Marc Preston welcomes actor Rob Corddry to Story & Craft to talk about his new AMC show “The Audacity” and explore a career that spans projects such as “The Daily Show,” “Children’s Hospital,” “Ballers,” “Top Gear America,” and films like “Old School,” “The Heartbreak Kid,” and “Hot Tub Time Machine.” We learn about Rob’s story, such as moving from moving from Massachusetts to L.A., what it was like acting alongside Ben and Jerry Stiller, the pace of working on “The Daily Show”, and some of his favorite projects. He also discusses early ambition to be a Shakespearean actor, to working in clown makeup on “Children’s Hospital”, and everything in between! 03:39 East Coast to LA Move 04:05 Seth MacFarlane The Winner 05:40 Ben Stiller Family Scene 09:51 Cedar Rapids and Dark Horses 11:45 Daily Show Era Origins 16:06 Daily Show Grind Today 18:47 Playing Ari Fleischer 20:41 Shakespeare Dreams New York 24:37 Parents Support and Naivete 28:39 Kids and Clown Makeup 31:26 Top Gear America Cars 34:04 First Car Gen X Nostalgia 35:33 Brat Pack Inspirations 36:30 Cusack and Chevy Stories 38:15 Why “Arthur” Hits Hard 40:08 Grounded Absurd Comedy 41:57 Choosing Roles and Auditions 43:29 Writing Mysteries and Spies 44:35 Lynch and Weird Worlds 45:53 Children's Hospital Logic 47:31 Indie Film Comeback Hopes 52:48 The Seven Questions

On this episode of “Story and Craft,” Marc sits down with actor and voiceover veteran DB Sweeney (“The Cutting Edge,” “Eight Men Out,” “Memphis Belle”) to talk career pivots, creative choices, and the long game of working in entertainment. DB shares what it was like training for “Memphis Belle” with retired SAS guys, flying in real B-17s. He opens up about growing up on Long Island, chasing baseball dreams at Tulane, discovering acting through theater, and getting launched by Francis Ford Coppola in “Gardens of Stone.” They also dig into DB’s work in voiceover run (Bud Light, Lincoln, Oprah’s network, and “Mountain Men”), his love of cooking, directing projects like “Two Tickets to Paradise,” and what he’s working on now, including “Red Ink,” and his current film, “Protector.” 03:20 Memphis Belle Bootcamp 05:13 B17 Death Star Tactics 10:03 Voiceover Career Highlights 12:34 Origin Story Long Island 13:21 Tulane Baseball And New Orleans 15:39 Cooking Signature Dishes 19:54 Broadway Breakthrough 21:10 Coppola Casting Break 22:44 Baseball Roles and Heroes 26:15 The Cutting Edge 28:30 Movies Then and Now 31:33 Directing and Next Projects 33:52 The Seven Questions

Marc Preston welcomes actor and producer Olivia Taylor Dudley to “Story and Craft” to talk sci-fi, horror, and why aliens have been a lifelong fascination — so much so that all three of her rescue dogs are named after extraterrestrial-inspired references, including SETI. Olivia breaks down how she “fell into” producing through early YouTube-era work on “Five Second Films.” She shares her unconventional path into acting, dropping out of school due to anxiety, moving to LA at 17, and finding structure and comfort on set. They dive into her new film “Touch Me,” a weird sci-fi/horror/comedy about an alien, and mental health themes, plus her time on “The Magicians,” voiceover/audiobook work, and why horror can feel comforting. 02:53 Rescue Dogs and Hairless Breeds 04:12 Producing and Wearing Many Hats 05:43 ADHD and Loving the Edit 07:45 Five Second Films Origins 10:35 Patton Oswalt Connection 11:32 Dropping Out and Moving to LA 12:59 The Exorcist and Finding Acting 15:29 Horror Sci Fi Upbringing 17:52 SETI Aliens and Disclosure Talk 21:12 Touch Me Alien Horror Comedy 24:42 Family Background Horses and Ranch 25:43 Grandma the Space Nerd 26:03 Ranch Stargazing Mysteries 27:46 Touch Me Origins 32:33 Inside The Magicians 35:24 Why Horror Works 37:06 Theatrical Versus Streaming 41:20 Upcoming Projects Update 42:07 The Seven Questions

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, Marc Preston goes behind the curtain with producer/writer Joel Church-Cooper (“Going Dutch”, “Brockmire”, “Future Man”, “Undateable”) to talk about how TV comedy really gets made and how the business has changed. Joel shares his Northern California upbringing, film-nerd roots in the video store era, and the comedy influences that shaped him (“Kids in the Hall”, “Mr. Show”). They dig into big studio comedies, as well as how algorithms and “second-screen” viewing are reshaping storytelling. Joel breaks down the origins of “Going Dutch” (including the real Army base that inspired it), the evolution of “Brockmire”, working with Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. It’s an engaging chat about what it takes to create great TV! 03:29 Film Nerd Origins 04:56 Video Store Era Stories 13:21 Comedy Influences and Sketch Classics 17:24 Public Access and Media Power 26:02 Going Dutch and Algorithm Notes 28:54 What He Watches Now 33:15 Kids Movies and YouTube Brain Rot 41:57 Chasing Authenticity 42:33 Brockmeyer Origins 49:05 Baseball as Existential Comedy 51:07 Future Man Writers Room 57:39 Why “Going Dutch” was set in The Netherlands 01:01:36 Culture Clash Comedy 01:03:13 The Seven Questions

On this episode of Story & Craft, we sit down with actor/director/writer/producer Kevin Kane. Kevin talks about growing up around Philly (and a stint in Myrtle Beach), catching the acting bug early thanks to a school report on Jimmy Cagney, and eventually moving to New York to chase theater and serious training. He breaks down studying Meisner at the William Esper Studio, how that tight-knit class bond turned into real creative momentum, and how he and Amy Schumer started working together - eventually leading to a long collaboration on projects like ”Inside Amy Schumer” and “Trainwreck.” Kevin also shares how he first got into the Dick Wolf universe, what it was like booking “Law & Order” early on (with Jerry Orbach encouraging him), and how guest spots on “SVU” ultimately helped lead to his role as Terry Bruno. Along the way they get into Philly’s Mummers Parade, comedy vs. drama, shy-kid-to-actor life, cops’ reactions to SVU, and working on ”The Irishman.” 03:23 From Philly to Myrtle Beach: Growing Up in Seasonal Towns 04:45 College Breakthrough: Acting Electives & Realizing It’s Possible 06:17 Philly Traditions Explained: The Wild Mummers Parade 09:41 Catching the Acting Bug: Jimmy Cagney, Old Movies & Film Obsessions 11:41 ’80s/’90s Pop Culture, Music, and the Ice-T Connection 14:43 Shy Kid to Performer: Barroom Stages, Fear, and Moving to New York 16:23 Why New York (Not LA): Theater Dreams & Acting Heroes 18:01 Comedy vs Drama: Versatility, SNL Era Influences & Finding Your Lane 19:58 Family Reactions + “Acting Is a Shy Man’s Revenge” 21:42 Training at William Esper Studio: Meisner Technique & Finding Your Tribe 24:16 Meeting Amy Schumer: Showcase to Theater Company & Making Your Own Work 26:10 Breaking into the Dick Wolf Universe: First Law & Order Audition 27:17 SVU Guest Roles to Series Regular: Bonding with Mariska Hargitay 28:18 Comedy Fundraisers to Inside Amy Schumer: Getting Pulled Into Sketch TV 29:46 On the Trainwreck Set: Writing Alt Jokes with Judd Apatow 33:27 Life on SVU in NYC: How Real Cops React to the Show 34:15 Scorsese’s The Irishman: Fittings, De Niro, and Feeling Old in a ’90s Suit 36:14 Actor vs. Multi-Hyphenate: Where the Work Feels Most Grueling 37:41 The “Seven Questions”

On this episode of Story and Craft, we sit down with actor Ken Leung. Known for his roles in “Rush Hour”, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, “The Sopranos”, and notably “Lost”, Ken shares his experiences across stage, TV, and film, as well as his role in the new season of HBO’s “Industry”. We dive deep into Ken's diverse career, discussing his induction into the acting world, his memorable roles, and the nuances of playing distinct characters in different genres. They also chat about the impact of “Lost”, working on “Industry”, and Ken's upcoming film, “Project Hail Mary” with Ryan Gosling and Milana Vayntrub. Tune in for an insightful conversation that will inspire! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Guest Introduction: Ken Leung 01:15 Substack and Listener Engagement 02:45 Interview Begins: Ken's Background 06:16 Growing Up in New York 09:43 Acting Journey and Family Dynamics 12:37 Learning Through Acting 20:39 Working with Sidney Lumet 23:10 Landing the Role in Lost 26:26 Experiencing Hawaii and Settling In 27:28 The Evolution of Lost 27:46 The Impact of Streaming on TV Shows 31:17 Transition to Industry 35:52 Project Hail Mary and Future Projects 38:12 The Seven Questions

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Thomas Jane from the Amazon Prime Video film “Play DIrty”, as well as projects such as The Expanse and Boogie Nights. We cover Jane's impressive body of work, as well as his journey from modest beginnings in Maryland to becoming a notable actor in Hollywood. We discuss Thomas’ passion for storytelling, the joys and challenges of being an actor, and the importance of authentic human experiences in film. Thomas also reveals his graphic novel projects and his deep dive into writing a book about visiting aliens. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that covers everything from chocolate to extraterrestrials! SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 03:26 Thomas Jane's Early Life and Career Beginnings 13:54 Playing Mickey Mantle 08:48 The Expanse and Sci-Fi Genre 18:34 High School and Early Acting 27:47 Reflections on Education and Society 36:32 Independent Films and Future Projects 43:17 Sci-Fi and Authentic Stories 44:26 Advice to Aspiring Actors 46:00 Family and Personal Life 48:38 Memories of Paul Reubens 53:31 Working with Talented Directors 55:38 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #PodcastInterview #Storytelling #ActorInterview #HollywoodInterview #FilmNerd #ThomasJane #PlayDirty #TheExpanse #Troppo #PrimeVideo #MarkWahlberg #Actor #Acting #StoryAndCraft #GraphicNovels #SyFy #Aliens #IndieFilm

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with producer,Danny O’Malley. Danny is a Grammy and James Beard award nominee. He just picked up an Emmy nomination for theNetflix series “Chef's Table”. Danny takes us on a culinary journey through his experiences. They also talk about everything from the impact of Anthony Bourdain, Chicago-style pizza preferences, memorable dining experiences, to the global influence of food and its power to bridge cultures. Danny also shares insights into his Greek heritage, his obsession with Chinese cuisine, and the making of compelling food stories. Tune in for an exciting conversation filled with delicious tidbits and behind-the-scenes stories that food lovers won't want to miss! SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:34 Chicago Roots and Pizza Preferences 04:10 Journey into Food Television 07:19 Food and Cultural Connections 08:58 Anthony Bourdain’s Impact 17:03 Memorable Culinary Experiences 20:34 A Culinary Journey Through History 25:18 Exploring Food Cultures and Personal Favorites 27:47 The Uncharted Territory of African Cuisine 29:19 The Evolution of Food Programming 33:03 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #DannyOMalley #ChefsTable #Netflix #Alinea #GrantAchatz #AnthonyBourdain #JamesBeard #Proudcer #Producing #storyandcraft #Cooking #Restaurants #Chefs #FoodNetwork #FoodTV

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, writer, producer and director,Larry Charles , who has a new memoir out called “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter”. He’s known for a constellation of projects, such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Mad About You, Borat, The Dictator and The Comedians. We dive into Larry's journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood, discussing his work on iconic shows, as well as collaborations with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, Sacha Baron Cohen, Bob Dylan and Bill Maher. We cover Larry's inspirations, his experiences in the industry, and his new memoir. This is a great bit of insight into the crafts of comedy and storytelling from one of the best in the business. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 02:43 Larry Charles' Personal Story 02:58 Impact of Losing a Home 07:34 Comedy in Tragedy 08:37 The Influence of George Carlin 13:32 Creating Content in the Digital Age 18:50 Larry Charles' Early Life and Family 29:08 Jewish Influence in Comedy 34:15 Comedy Inspirations and Influences 40:17 Exploring Comedy Preferences 42:24 The Pressure of Producing Sitcoms 43:42 The Evolution of Comedy 44:37 Behind the Scenes of Entourage 49:32 Directing Borat 52:05 The Joys and Challenges of Directing 55:58 The Seven Questions 58:50 Dream Dinner Guests 01:01:07 Religulous and Satirizing Religion 01:05:08 Celebrity Crushes and Desert Island Picks 01:12:10 Advice to My Younger Self Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #LarryCharles #Seinfeld #CurbYourEnthusiam #Borat #Comedy #JerrySeinfeld #SachaBaronCohen #LarryDavid #BillyCrystal #PaulReiser #BillMaher #BobDylan #MelBrooks #Author #Writer #Producer #Director #ComedySamurai #storyandcraft #HBO #Author #Bruno #TheDictator #Jewish #Religulous

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine from theApple TV Series “Smoke”, as well as upcoming projects such as “Dexter: Resurrection” and “Washington Black.” We discuss Ntare's extensive career, including his roles in popular TV shows like “The Chi” and “Treme.” Ntare also opens up about his Ugandan heritage, and his own journey into acting. We also chat about his and his long-term documentary project “Memories of Love Returned.” It’s a great chat about a unique journey! SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 02:20 Ntare's Background and Family 03:27 Journey into Acting 10:12 Life in New York and Los Angeles 12:52 Cultural Connections and Cuisine 16:07 Colonial History and Family Lineage 18:49 Acting Career Highlights 21:04 Landing the Role in “Smoke” 24:49 Unexpected Career Paths 27:25 Family and Acting 29:26 Cultural Connections and Cooking 31:24 Upcoming Projects 37:05 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #NtareGumaMbahoMwine #Smoke #Dexter #WashingtonBlack #AppleTV # TaronEgerton # JurneeSmollett #GregKinnear # JohnLeguizamo #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Uganda #Photography

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Mariana Treviño from the Apple TV+ series “Stick”, as well as projects such as "A Man Called Otto" and host of film and TV work in Mexico. We discuss her life and career, as well as her thoughts about working with co-stars Owen Wilson and Marc Maron. We also touch on Mariana’s Mexican roots, her journey into acting, and her fond memories of family trips to South Padre Island, Texas. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:30 Mariana's Background and Career 02:08 Monterey and Family Connections 04:11 Acting Journey and Inspirations 07:24 Golf and Life Metaphors 09:56 Theater and TV Career 13:11 Cultural Heritage and Memories 16:20 On-Set Experiences and Chemistry 19:00 Reflecting on Character Dynamics 19:25 Working With Marc Maron 20:58 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #MarianaTrevino #Stick #AppleTV #OwenWilson #MarcMaron #JudyGreer #PeterDager #TimothyOlyphant #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Golf #Monterrey #SouthPadreIsland #SPI

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Brandon Lessard from thenew film “The Unholy Trinity.” Brandon shares his experiences working alongside Pierce Brosnan, Samuel L. Jackson, and David Arquette in this Western set in Montana. We dive into Brandon's journey from Fairfax, Virginia to Los Angeles, as well as his passion for acting. Brandon also touches on his love for historical dramas, his writing endeavors, and the physical challenges faced during the film's production. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insight and cool behind-the-scenes stories. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:30 Brandon's Background and Journey to Acting 02:56 Family and Early Influences 07:30 Musical Tastes and Influences 09:58 Acting Inspirations and Favorite Roles 13:15 The Unholy Trinity: Behind the Scenes 20:20 Filming in Montana 25:15 The Crew and Filming Challenges 27:13 Childhood Inspirations and Favorite Genres 28:48 Admiration for Vince Gilligan and Taylor Sheridan 30:01 Star Wars Fandom and Western Roles 36:34 Balancing Acting and Personal Life 37:57 Memorable Moments with Iconic Actors 42:53 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #BrandonLessard #TheUnholyTrinity #RoadsideAttractions #PierceBrosnan #SamuelLJackson #DavidArquette #KatrinaBowden #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Montana #Western

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Annalise Basso from the film “The Life of Chuck”, as well as projects such as “Captain Fantastic” and “Snowpiercer.” We chat about Annalise’s acting career, from childhood to now, as well as what it was like growing up with a brother and sister who are also in the industry. We also touch on Annalise’s other passions, such as ballet and surfing…and how those things keep her grounded and inspired. It’s a great conversation that covers Annalise’s journey from Missouri to one of this year’s most anticipated summer movies. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 02:23 Family and Pets 03:04 Acting Career and Experiences 06:36 Life in LA and Family Dynamics 07:37 Childhood and Early Career 24:45 Living at Oakwood and Stage Parents 31:29 Discussing the Cast and Plot of the Movie 32:10 Reflections on Life and Acting 33:59 Current TV and Movie Recommendations 36:19 Childhood Movie Memories 38:25 The Value of Physical Photos and Videos 40:30 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #AnnaliseBasso #TheLifeofChuck #Snowpiercer #CaptainFantastic #KarenGillan #NickOfferman #MarkHamill #MatthewLillard #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #GabrielBasso # TomHiddleston #Dance #Surfing #ChildActor

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Felix Solis from the Netflix series “Sirens”, as well as projects such as The Rookie and Ozark. We discuss Felix's upbringing in New York City, his early career in theater, and his transition to television. Felix shares personal stories, including his unique connection to the Beastie Boys and a memorable encounter with Anthony Bourdain. We also get a glimpse into Felix's take on his Puerto Rican heritage, as well as his love for his rescue dogs. It’s a great chat and an opportunity to learn about Felix’s journey in the arts. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:42 Felix Solis and his New York history 02:43 Felix Solis on Atlanta and Ozark 05:41 Anthony Bourdain Anecdote 10:07 Theater Beginnings and Philip Seymour Hoffman 20:15 Growing Up in New York 25:48 Family Background and Multicultural Upbringing 30:18 Career Moves and The Rookie 35:30 Life with Rescue Dogs 38:40 Dog Sitting and Travel 39:14 Auditioning for Ozark 42:46 Representation in Media 46:04 Puerto Rican Cuisine and Cooking 47:39 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #FelixSolis #Sirens #TheRookie #Ozark #Netflix #MillyAlcock #KevinBacon #JulianneMoore #MeghannFahy #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #PhilipSeymourHoffman #NewYork #PuertoRican #RescueDogs

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Reed Diamond from the film “Drop.” Reed has had a long career working in a constellation of projects, such as “Memphis Belle,” “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Orphan Black: Echoes” and “Moneyball.” We cover Reed's career highlights, his foundational experiences at Juilliard, and his passion for music. Reed shares insight into his recent projects, including his new film and the joys of working with his family. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:49 Reed's Life in Canada and Maine 11:20 Reed's Musical Journey 27:18 The Magic of Movie Soundtracks 33:45 Juilliard Experience 34:59 Deciding to Pursue Acting at Julliard 36:32 Early Influences and Family Background 39:07 First Big Break and Career Beginnings 41:29 Memorable Projects and Experiences 45:50 The Joy of Acting and Future Aspirations 49:08 Personal Life and Family Dynamics 54:05 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #ReedDiamond #Drop #OrphanBlack #Designated Survivor #13ReasonsWhy #BrandonSklenar #MeghannFahy #ViolettBeane #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Music #FamilyMan #MoneyBall

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor and musician, Alex Wolff from the new film “Magic Farm”, as well as projects such as "A Quiet Place: Day One," "Oppenheimer," "A Good Person," "Hereditary" and the "Jumanji" films. We discuss his new film, his role in the horror movie “Hereditary,” and his experiences working with notable directors like M. Night Shyamalan and Christopher Nolan. Alex shares insights about his childhood, his musical journey with his brother, Nat Wolff, and the emotional experience of performing with his jazz pianist father at Madison Square Garden while on tour with Billie Eilish. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:39 Alex Wolf's Acting Journey 03:10 New Film: Magic Farm 05:02 Musical Influences and Family 08:53 Creative Process and Inspirations 16:43 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #AlexWolff #MagicFarm #Oppenheimer #Hereditary #Mubi #NatWolff #BillieEilish #ChloeSevigny #WolffBrothers #Actor #Musician #Acting #storyandcraft #Jazz #MNightShyamalan

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author,Jim Murphy who wrote thebook “Inner Excellence.” We discuss Jim's journey, including his time as a professional baseball player, his mother's samurai heritage, and his transition to coaching. We explore his unique experiences, such as living in solitude in the desert to write, “Inner Excellence,” which gained significant attention when Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown was seen reading it on the sidelines during a playoff game. Jim shares insights on his philosophy of living a meaningful life, the impact of Japanese culture, and his aspirations to make a difference in the lives of people around the world. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:01 Jim Murphy's Athletic Journey 05:52 Transition to Coaching 09:30 Cultural Influences and Personal Philosophy 20:03 Reflections on Dreams and Aspirations 21:37 Introduction to Living a Full Life 21:46 Desert Experience and Personal Transformation 27:30 Impact of AJ Brown and Future Goals 33:58 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #JimMurphy #InnerExcellence #SelfHelp #AJBrown #TexasRangers #Rangers #Baseball #Author #Acting, Directing, etc. #storyandcraft #NFL #Football #PhiladelphiaEagles #Motivation #Inspiration

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Asher Grodman from the CBS series “Ghosts.” Asher shares his journey from a shy kid growing up on a farm in New Jersey, to what he learned about performance at his Bar Mitzvah. We discuss his early career experiences, his love for football, and the making of a unique mockumentary for the Jacksonville Jaguars. We also touch on life as a working actor on a successful network television show, and what it’s like to portray a character who never wears pants. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 03:19 Asher's Background and Upbringing 09:58 Early Acting Experiences 15:13 Pursuing Acting in High School and College 24:50 The Jacksonville Jaguars Project 32:48 Winning Awards and Recognition 34:07 Auditioning for Ghosts 36:45 The Unique Concept of Ghosts 40:16 The Casting Process and Table Read 42:14 The Impact of COVID-19 44:22 The Ensemble Cast and Collaboration 48:00 The Seven Questions Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com . . . #podcast #AsherGrodman #Ghosts #JacksonvilleJaguars #Jaguars #CBS #ImRoseMcIver #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #NFL #Football