SANE Show

Featuring Vice President, Original Programming, Disney Junior; Lori Mozilo. She currently oversees production and creative development for the highly-anticipated animated series, "Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends." Other Disney Junior credits include the hit series, "Puppy Dog Pals," "T.O.T.S.," “Goldie & Bear,” and the popular "Disney Junior Music Nursery Rhymes" and "Ready for Preschool" short-form series. Joining Disney in March 2010, Lori served as executive on the live-action, Emmy Award-winning "Imagination Movers." She also oversaw Disney Junior’s Emmy Award Nominated, interactive app, “Amigo,” which premiered at #1 in the App Store. (2:27) During the first segment, Lori explains the idea of following the breadcrumb trail. We talk about how it can be beneficial to follow the breadcrumb trail as well. (10:49) We have a conversation about the expansion of streaming platforms. We also discuss the increasing amount of content and how both consumers and content providers affect content consumption. (25:38) During the interview Lori talks about how things are different for young professionals now than when she was coming up in the business. We learned how Lori was also able to have direction while following the breadcrumb trail. Lori speaks on how she as a parent and professional takes parental concerns into consideration in her position. Lastly, Lori offers her thoughts on how going digital will impact creatives and their ability to make it onto major platforms.

Featuring Recording Artist, he just released his debut studio album, St. Luke St.; Devn (1:40) We have a discussion about artist branding and how it's more important than just putting on an image. Devn talks about the importance of music artists being their authentic selves. (10:08) Following that discussion, we have a conversation about the hip-hop community. We learn about the Charlotte music scene and what Devn believe's makes it unique. (18:59) During the interview, Devn goes into detail about Charlotte's music scene. We learn about what inspired Devn's St. Luke St. from Devn's childhood and musical experience. Devn speaks a little bit on the process of developing his image and if he sees it changing in the future. Devn tells us about how he knew things were working and that his music career is going in the right direction.

Featuring Production Manager, Tour Manager, Stage Manager and Set Carpenter; he's worked with the likes of The Glitch Mob, Mumford & Sons, Demi Lovato, The Backstreet Boys, and many other artists; Minh Nguyen (2:03) We have a discussion about how existing technology and products are being used in an innovative way during the pandemic to still provide a unique fan experience. Minh talks to us about how crowd noise technology is being used at live sporting events during the pandemic. (12:34) Minh gives us insight into the day in the life of a set carpentry team. Minh gives us a high level overview of the process from setting up to breaking down tour productions. (21:34) During the interview, Minh shares how he feels his college degree has benefited him during his time in the touring business. We learn how Minh has been able to create multiple opportunities for himself using his various skills. We also get insight into Minh's experience balancing his personal life and career. Lastly, Minh tells us his favorite meal he likes to prepare.

Featuring Broadway, Television & Film Actress featured in Cruel Summer, Showtime's Homeland, Tony nominated play, The Crucible on Broadway; Ashlei Sharpe Chestnut (2:16) Ashlei gives us insight into the difference between acting on stage and acting on television. We also discuss some of the challenges of both, not having an audience, working with directors and more. (10:55) We have a discussion about Black creatives in Hollywood and how they have been creating opportunities for other Black creatives, and other minorities. Ashlei shares a big announcement about her upcoming project. We talk about how it is an exciting time in the entertainment industry. (19:29) During the interview, Ashlei talks about the increase in opportunities that she's had. We learn about the common misconceptions that people have about finding representation. Ashlei shares her thoughts on how the entertainment industry has improved and how it can continue to improve when it comes to representation. We learn more about Ashlei's interest in becoming a writer. Lastly, Ashlei shares her experience of being an actress during the pandemic.

Featuring Smooth Jazz Guitarist, Producer, and Songwriter; Garry Percell. (2:24) We have a discussion about the "in crowd." Garry talks about the benefits of being connected to the right individuals in the entertainment industry. (10:13) Following that discussion, we have a conversation about industry co-signs. We discuss the positive impacts that industry co-signs have on a production. (18:21) Garry tells us about his new smooth Jazz single. Garry shares with us how his team has grown over the last few years. We learn about how Garry's music has evolved. Garry shares how he's prepared himself to go into unknown territory and shares some best practices.

Previous SANE Show guest, Javier Alcaraz and his wife Elizabeth asked Cliff to cover their wedding. Jav & Liz's wedding wasn't a typical wedding ceremony. While celebrating their union, they used it as an opportunity to give back to their community, the touring and live entertainment industry. Jav & Liz asked Cliff to share the story of the occasion. Cliff sat down with friends of Jav & Liz that took part in helping bring their vision to life. Listen as Jav, Liz, Danny, Caroline, Jake, and DJ Mick recount their thoughts leading up to the occasion, after, and how it's affected their perspective of the what future of touring and live entertainment will look like.

Featuring Licensed Educator in North Carolina, she has a B.A. in Early Childhood Development, a Masters in Urban Education, a Graduate Certificate in Anti-Racism & Urban Education; Kimberly Perez. (2:04) We have a conversation about how local school districts have an effect on the real estate market. Kim touches on how low income families whose children attend lower performing schools are being affected the most by the changes in the real estate market. (12:21) Following that discussion, we have a conversation about modern day segregation. Kim gives us insight into how segregation has evolved from the 1960s to modern day society. (22:16) During the final segment, we discuss restorative justice. Kim talks us through her restorative justice study with local teachers and the results achieved through the study.

Featuring CEO of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the Prudential Center, the New Jersey Devils, and one of the NBA's most storied franchises, the Philadelphia 76ers; he has a new book, Be Where Your Feet Are: Seven Principles to Keep You Present, Grounded, and Thriving: Scott O'Neil (1:59) We have a conversation about skill and talent, and how the two work together. Scott offers up some advice on how to be a successful professional. (11:34) Following that discussion, we have a conversation about converting failure to success. Scott shares from his personal experience, and how we should embrace the lessons we learn from failing in order to succeed. (20:18) During the interview, Scott shares what inspired him to write his book. Scott shares what work-life balance means to him and what it actually looks like in his life. We learn about Scott's four step process to become more present and being where our feet are. Lastly, Scott shares what he hopes his book will inspire amongst readers. Link to Scott's book, Be Where Your Feet Are: Seven Principles to Keep You Present, Grounded, and Thriving

Featuring SXSW Director of Global Sponsorship, Scott McNearney (1:43) We have a conversation about how major music festivals will adapt following the COVID 19 pandemic. Scott give us insight into how SXSW had to adapt and some of the things they will need to consider going forward. (11:23) We discuss audience engagement; Scott explains how SXSW bridges the gap between brands and creatives. Scott also shares some of his favorite brand activations from previous festivals. (21:26) During the interview, Scott goes into detail about SXSW creates proper alignment between brands and creatives. Scott shares a little bit about how SXSW selects sponsors in relation to the themes. We learn how Scott's background as a performer has helped prepare him for his position at SXSW. Lastly, Scott shares some of the things that he's learned whilst organizing virtual festival events.

Featuring Voiceover Artist; his has done work for The National Museum of African American History, History Channel, the Boston Celtics, The City of Los Angeles, and the YMCA, Owner of Andre White Voice Acting, LLC; Andre White Jr. (2:29) Andre gives us insight into being a voiceover artist and what it takes in to successful at it. We have a conversation about different career paths for voiceover artists. (10:59) Following that conversation, we have a discussion about representation in the voiceover artist space. Andre tells us about some of the challenges that Black voiceover artists face in the industry. (19:15) During the interview, Andre tells how not having much help has helped him develop as a voiceover artist. Andre talks about how to open doors for other Black voiceover artists looking to get into the industry. We learn about how Andre improves his voiceover skills and he began to master his craft. Andre explains the ambiguity of the industry and what it has taught him as a voiceover artist.

Featuring Television Director, her credits include The Bernie Mac Show, Black-ish, Grown-ish, The Chris Rock Show, Ugly Betty, Scrubs, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and many other of our favorite television series, Linda Mendoza. (2:07) We have a conversation about continuing education. We discuss how continuing education isn't limited to formal education, but how you can learn from anything. (12:56) Following that conversation we discuss episodic television. Linda shares her experience in the industry as a television director. (21:20) During the interview, Linda shared some things that she's learned recently and how they've helped her grow in her career. Linda also talks about what makes working on a set of television productions enjoyable. We get Linda's thoughts on what makes a good director, and what makes some directors better than others. Linda gives us more insight into the difference between single camera and multi camera television productions.

Featuring award-winning editor and Emmy judge whose credits include Tom Petty: Somewhere You Feel Free, the centerpiece for the 2021 SXSW Film Festival, and Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President, previously featured in the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival. Her credits include Nina Simone, Tupac Shakur, Chicago, N.W.A., Janet Jackson and The Cure's induction films for HBO's: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame; Mari Keiko Gonzalez (2:15) We have a conversation about award shows. Mari gives us insight into the nomination process and the politics around major entertainment award shows. (11:20) We also have a conversation about being present. We discuss the importance of living in the moment, no only when working, but outside of work too. (20:10) During the interview, Mari shares why she believes it's important to listen to the younger generation. We learn how Mari balances her work and downtime. Mari details the challenges of capturing someone's career in a few minutes when creating reels for their Hall of Fame induction. Lastly, Mari shares what makes editing certain projects more difficult than others.

Featuring former Hollywood Agent, Producer, and Executive. His previous clients include Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ray Romano, Kevin James, Chuck Russell, and many others. He produced The Call starring Halle Berry, and was instrumental in putting together The Shawshank Redemption, The Mask, Terminator 3, among other films. He is one of the founders of big three Hollywood agency, United Talent Agency (UTA), and is now CEO of RobEri Media; Robert Stein. (2:26) We have discussion about figuring things out for yourself. We talk about will vs. skill, and learning from your failures. (10:53) Following that conversation, we discuss being an agent. Robert shares what it takes to be a Hollywood agent. (19:40) During the interview, Robert shares his thoughts on Hollywood agencies having more requirements for entry level positions. Robert shares his thoughts about being successful and coming from an immigrant family. Robert tells us what he thinks about HBO's Entourage and compared to the reality of being an agent. Lastly, we get Robert's honest opinion about UTA 30 years later after it's conception.

Featuring Vice President of Global Brand Strategy & Marketing at Universal Studio Group; Kelly Harrington. (2:24) We have conversation about marketing to different generation. Kelly gives us a breakdown of Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z. Kelly also explains what makes NBCUniversal's content appealing to multiple audiences. (21:12) We have a discussion about changing plans. We discuss how change is god and could bring about even better things. (29:45) During the interview, Kelly shares her transition from photography to entertainment. Kelly explains the difference between Hollywood and London's when it comes to entertainment. Kelly offers her thoughts on the current media landscape and it's portrayal of society. Lastly, Kelly shares her travel journey during her period of transition.

Featuring Film Composer, Singer-Songwriter and Instrumentalist; Alton James. (2:17) We have a conversation about the back door to success. Alton talks about the importance of bringing value to other people. (13:07) Alton gives us insight into being a film composer. Alton also breaks down how film composers think about and score music. (20:30) During the interview, Alton tells us who inspired him. We also learn how Alton finds balance with everything that he does. We learn why human connection is important to Alton. Lastly, Alton tells us why growing knowledge is important to personal and career growth.

Featuring Emmy winning Television Executive & Content Creator; Richard Borjas. Richard recently as Vice President of Programming & Development at NBCUniversal, he's served as Vice President of Production at Telemundo, Supervising Producer of "The Balancing Act" on Lifetime, and Freelance Producer on Good Morning America. (4:14) Richard offers his take on how syndicated television programs are doing in the current media landscape. Richard gives us insight into the different types of viewers and how nostalgic syndicated programs are benefiting from streaming. (14:04) Richard shares what goes into the process of greenlighting television productions. We also discuss the relationship between television networks and their talent. (23:39) During the interview, Richard shares some of his biggest takeaways of his career in the television industry. We learn about completing television projects and some of the challenges that may arise. Richard tells us about some of his biggest accomplishments. Richard offers up some advice to aspiring television network executives.

Featuring Director of A&R at Legacy Recordings, a division of Sony Music Entertainment; Jeffrey James. Jeff manages the catalogs for the Luther Vandross Estate, the Whitney Houston Estate, P!nk, Usher, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys and many other respected recording artists. (2:22) We have a conversation about the importance of legacy recording artists. We discuss how legacy recording artists have impacted music and culture. (12:20) Jeff gives us insight into being an A&R, the difference between front facing A&Rs and legacy A&Rs. Jeff shares with us the importance of A&Rs that manage music catalogues of legacy recording artists. (22:07) During the interview, Jeff offers advice to those only looking to get into music only to become famous. Jeff shares his thoughts on what makes music timeless. Jeff also shares his favorite method of listening to music. Jeff briefly shares what made him decide to return to the music industry and stay.

Featuring CEO of Walter Latham Entertainment, Filmmaker and Producer of The Original Kings of Comedy, The Queens of Comedy, Bad Boys of Comedy, he's worked with many of comedy's greats from Bernie Mac, Steve Harvey, Tyler Perry, Sommore, Monique, Martin Lawrence, Chris Tucker, Bill Bellamy and many others; Walter Latham. (2:08) We have a conversation about taking it from the best. Walter talk about being prepared for opportunities. (11:01) Following that conversation, we talk about being in the right place at the right time. Walter talks about not letting your circumstances determine your future and how you can do whatever you want to do in life. (25:22) During the interview, Walter tells us how one finds their niche. Walter offers his thoughts on how the digital age has affected comedy. Walter gives his thoughts on the impact he's made on the culture. Lastly, Walter shares what success has taught him about the entertainment industry and himself.

Featuring Senior Director of Marketing at Epic Records; Dylan Brewer (1:53) We have a discussion about music marketing and music partnerships. We discuss how music artists and brands can work together. (11:11) Dylan explains how smaller agencies and independent record labels can benefit independent music artists. Dylan shares his insight on how major labels still can benefit music artists. (24:20) Dylan explains marketing's role in the development of music content. Dylan shares his thoughts on brand and music partnerships. Lastly, Dylan shares some of the biggest misconceptions he has to address in the music industry.

(2:16) We have a discussion about humanizing brands. Yulia gives us insight into her career and tells us what makes a brand human. (10:23) We also have a discussion about celebrity influencers. Yulia tells us how celebrity influencers match up against influencers that are more like everyday people. (20:54) During the interview, Yulia tells us which client she enjoyed working with most. Yulia talks about what it's like humanizing her clients' brands. Yulia gives her thoughts on where she thinks legacy brands should start when trying to revamp their image. Yulia shares her thoughts on what "real" looks like to her when it comes to entertainment content.