Broadway Vocal Coach

Self-tape takes aren’t rehearsal. They’re the performance! In this episode, we're letting you in on our Self-Tape Survival Guide — from setup basics (lighting, sound, framing, eye line) to performance choices and the mindset shift that will save you hours of frustration. You’ll learn: Referenced episodes: "Choreographing Attention" Eight Dumb Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Self-TapesIf you’ve ever spiraled into 27 takes, questioned your entire career after watching yourself back, or tried to “find it” while filming… This episode is for you. 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Frigid winter weather, germs abound, and someone decided THIS is audition season?! Whether you’re a high school senior heading into college auditions or a professional preparing for a busy season of tapes and callbacks, this conversation is packed with practical, real-world vocal health strategies you can use any time your voice is under pressure. Aspire Program Director Julie Kavanagh sits down with BVC co-founder Chelsea Wilson to talk nerves, stamina, sickness, travel, warmups, and how to sing well even when conditions aren’t ideal. You’ll hear us dive into: weeksPlus: Chelsea’s go-to grounding ritual, myths to ignore, and the mindset shift that helps singers perform with confidence—even on a 60% voice day. Julie hosts more college audition-related conversations over on the NEW Aspire Youtube Channel! Support the show by hitting subscribe! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Vocal Health for College MT Auditions: Staying Strong in Not-So-Ideal ConditionsChelsea Wilson Vocal Studio Warm-Up Series - A set of 10-minute warmups for mix, legit, and belt—perfect for audition days. On sale thru Dec 31st. FREE 10-Minute Mix Voice Mini-Lesson - Chelsea’s guided warmup to help you activate your mix before auditions. SOVT / Straw Work Resources - Listen to episode 54 the BVC Podcast for a deep dive! Use code "CHELSEA10" to get 10% off your Singing / Straw order: http://lddy.no/qfc8 ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Is clearing my throat bad for my voice? Will dairy make my voice crack? Is belting going to give me nodes? If you’re a singer I’m sure you’ve heard some of these before and wonder, is there any truth to that? In today's replay episode (one of our most popular ever!) we’re dispelling vocal health myths and sharing what voice care practices actually makes a difference in your voice and your overall wellness. If today’s episode reminded you how much your voice matters, come get real support inside BVC Masterclass. Join us monthly to build healthier habits, stronger technique, and a voice you can rely on. Chelsea's Warm-Up Series: use code "BVC20" and save 20% on everything. Video: Vocal Cord Swelling Checks - A Simple Way to Detect the Early Signs of Vocal Injury Sarah K Brown @VocalHealthSKB: Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and Singing Teacher with science-based singing and vocal health tips Elle Nichelle @VocaLabAU: SLP and Singing Teacher. Prevention > Treatment! ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

What if the life you’re living right now… is the one you used to dream about? Today we're taking a brief step away from vocal technique and auditions to talk about something equally essential for performers: gratitude, perspective, and the surprising power of taking stock of what’s already good. Whether you're prepping for holiday travel, a weekend of shows, or finally taking a breath before the winter rush, this episode is your gentle reminder that you’re doing better than you think. In this episode, we unpack: The Reverse To-Do List:haveGratitude as a Creative Tool:The Gift of Aging (Really!):Life Seasons & Artistic Seasons:Why You Keep Raising the Bar:If you’re craving a mindset reset before the holidays and want to feel more grounded, grateful, and present in your creative life, this one’s for you. ❤️ ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

What does it really take to perform one of the most iconic soprano roles in theatre history? (Hint: it’s more than high notes and pretty gowns!) In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Haile Ferrier and Francesca Mehrotra, two of the six extraordinary women starring as Christine in Masquerade, the new off-Broadway immersive Phantom of the Opera experience directed by Diane Paulus. They open up about: share one of musical theatre’s most iconic soprano rolesvocal staminapower of representation collaboration fuels creativity.Whether you’re a singer, a Phantom phan, or an artist hoping for longevity in a demanding career, this conversation is a masterclass in grace, grit, and vocal artistry. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

What does "you sound too musical theatre" actually mean?? (Hint: it’s rarely just about your voice) Today we're giving you clear, actionable tools to bridge the stylistic gap between Broadway polish and pop/rock authenticity. In this episode, we unpack: “too musical theatre”Whether you’re auditioning for Moulin Rouge, Come From Away, or a 54 Below concert, this conversation will help you understand context, make smarter vocal choices, and finally feel confident crossing over into pop/rock. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

At just 23, Elizabeth Teeter has already built a career most performers dream of—starring as Lydia in Beetlejuice on Broadway, Heather McNamara in Heathers Off-Broadway, and sharing the stage with legends like Helen Mirren and Saoirse Ronan. But behind all that success is a young artist who’s learned the importance of boundaries, self-care, and staying grounded in the work. In this conversation, Chelsea and Elizabeth talk about: Elizabeth also shares her creative process as a songwriter—her debut album Out There is available to stream now—and what’s next for her on stage and beyond. ✨ Follow Elizabeth on Instagram @elizabethteeterofficial 🎧 New Single "Do You Like Me?" dropping October 24th ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

“At a certain level, everyone can sing that note. So now casting is saying: who are you?” – Adam Wachter How do you actually build a musical theatre audition book that works? What songs belong in it—and which ones can you finally stop worrying about? Chelsea and Cynthia sit down with Titanique music director, composer, and author Adam Wachter to talk about his new book Your Rep Book: How to Find, Choose, and Prepare Successful Audition Songs. You’ll hear Adam share: 🎭 How your audition book evolves through different career stages—from college to Broadway 🎶 What makes a song “high quality” (and what doesn’t) 🙅‍♀️ Why “overdone” songs aren’t the problem you think they are 🧠 The difference between jukebox musicals and story-driven pop/rock shows—and how that changes what you sing 💡 Practical tips for choosing, cutting, and preparing songs that show who you are Whether you’re auditioning for college, regional theatre, or Broadway, this conversation is full of concrete, encouraging advice to make your audition prep a little less stressful—and a lot more personal. 🎧 Your Rep Book is available wherever books are sold, with the audiobook (featuring Adam at the piano!) coming soon. 📚 Connect with Adam: Instagram @zebraadam Website adamwachter.com 👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode of the Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast—and share this one with a friend who’s revamping their audition book! ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Back in 2022, we first asked the question: Is a BFA in Musical Theatre worth it? Three years later, it’s still the conversation on every aspiring performer’s (and parent’s) mind. In today’s bonus episode, Chelsea sits down with Julie Kavanagh—performer, choreographer, and Program Director for Broadway Vocal Coach’s College Prep Program — BVC Aspire. A proud graduate of CCM (Cincinnati Conservatory of Music), Julie shares both personal experience and professional perspective on whether a BFA is still worth it in 2025. You’ll hear us talk about: notWhether you’re a student dreaming of Broadway or a parent weighing the investment, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and practical guidance for making one of the biggest decisions in a young artist’s journey. ⭐️ High School Juniors: Looking for guidance for your college auditions? Join us for a FREE Musical Theatre College Audition Q&A! 📆 Monday, October 20th 8pm ET 📍 Zoom (replay available) 📋 Register: bwayvocalcoach.com/college ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

“The most useful thing you can do on social media is show who the heck you really are.” – Kate Lumpkin What do casting directors really notice—in the audition room and online? Chelsea and Cynthia sit down with casting director Kate Lumpkin for an inside look at how performers can stand out without faking it. You’ll hear Kate share: doWhether you’re just breaking into the business or trying to get more consistent callbacks, this episode is packed with practical insights that will help you feel less mystified by the casting process. 📸 Connect with Kate on Insta 👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode of the Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast—and share this one with a friend who’s getting ready for auditions! ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Mix voice might be the most misunderstood topic in all of singing. Is it a style? A register? A magic “secret” only some people can do? In this episode, Chelsea and Cynthia bust FOUR of the biggest mix voice myths and share what it really means to sing in a healthy mixed voice. You’ll hear: shouldBy the end, you’ll see that mix voice technique isn’t mysterious—it’s learnable, it’s for everyone, and it’s the key to singing with freedom and balance across your whole range! 🎧 Tune in, myth-bust with us, and start building a mix that feels like your voice. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

What kind of courage it takes to keep creating when your career takes unexpected turns? Our guest Ali Gordon has worn a lot of hats—musical theatre performer, comedian, teacher, and now, debut novelist! In this inspiring conversation, Ali joins Chelsea and Cynthia to talk all about just that. Her novel, "We Have Reached the End of Our Show" is out on September 30th, get it here. You’ll hear us talk about: andWhether you’re between gigs, dreaming up your next project, or just in need of a reminder that creativity takes many forms, this episode will leave you feeling both grounded and inspired. ✨ Connect with Ali! 📸 Instagram | 💻 Website 📚 Attend a book launch event with Ali! 📕 Los Angeles: SKYLIGHT BOOKS, September 30 - 7:00pm 📘 New York: THE CORNER BOOKSTORE, October 6 - 6:00pm ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Welcome back to Season 4 of the Broadway Vocal Coach Podcast! In this season opener, Chelsea and Cynthia catch up after a jam-packed summer and share the lessons they’re bringing into the year ahead. From Chelsea’s behind-the-scenes work on the new immersive Phantom production (Masquerade) to Cynthia’s dream-come-true experience working with Broadway idols on Hello, Dolly!, this episode is all about what it means to live and work through different seasons of life. You’ll hear us talk about: your career is a long gameperformers juggling endless priorities.Why laughter, silliness, and play aren’t optional extrassay “yes” to singing again after years awayeveryWhether you’re balancing school, gigs, auditions, or family life, this episode is a gentle reminder: you’re not behind—you’re just in a season. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 5 ways to work with us: BVC Masterclass:BVC Academy: Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Aspire: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Just last week we heard from one of our BVC Studio members: "I don't want to be too much." Is this same fear holding you back from your best work? And, is there a line between enough and too much? In our 2025 season finale, join us for a discussion about how going all out can transform your career. Hint: The gap between what you want and where you are now, is a whole lot of cringe. 😅 01:45 Season Recap: Memorable Moments and Guests 02:55 Addressing the Fear of Being 'Too Much' 13:28 The Importance of Going All Out in Auditions and Performances 19:59 Networking and Professional Relationships: How Much is Too Much? ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 6 ways to work with us: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

"You already have worth, we're not trying to trick people into believing that we're something we're not. So, how do I get you to see my skills, talents, and values such that you recognize them and therefore see how being in a relationship with me is mutually beneficial?" Chelsea Wilson chats with Dr. Alison Fragale, author of 'Likable Badass' as she shares powerful insights on building status, authentic self-promotion, and strategic networking. Key tips include: using the 'brag and thank' method to self-promote, the importance of long-term vision, and leveraging relationships for career growth. 🌟 '"Authentic and strategic need not be mutually exclusive." Learn how to balance warmth and assertiveness to advance your career in musical theater. 📱Connect with Alison on Insta and 📚 get a copy of "Likeable Badass." 03:20 Understanding Status and Likable Badass 12:57 Practical Strategies for Status Building 14:27 The Importance of Networking and Self-Promotion 22:35 Maintaining Relationships and Continuous Networking 26:43 Turning Personal Experiences into Educational Stories 27:47 The Importance of Visibility and Social Media 30:37 The Power of Other Promoters 41:58 Strategic Long-Term Career Planning ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways to work with us: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

"If you haven't done the fundementals, that's all I'm thinking about. What a self tape is, is choreographing the attention of the viewer." Acclaimed actor, podcast producer, and star of "Suits," Tom Lipinski shares crucial insights on the art of self-taping, like when to break the rules 📸 and making strong, informed choices right away. Learn why you can get away with all sorts of shortcomings EXCEPT poor audio, and the importance of watching and assessing your performance. 🤔 Tune in for tips on grabbing attention quickly and making your self-tape stand out in a sea of submissions! Listen to Tom's award winning true-crime podcast "Gone South" wherever you listen. 05:01 The Evolution of Self-Tapes 19:01 Technical Setup for Self-Tapes 23:31 How Social Media Impacts our Viewing 25:16 Balancing Attention and Authenticity 35:48 The Role of Inspiration and Technique ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways to work with us: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Should you move to New York City to pursue a career in musical theater? 🎭 We explore the pros and cons, from networking opportunities and live auditions to the high cost of living and tiny spaces. 🗽 Hear personal stories and get practical advice on making the leap, including tips on saving money, finding a sublet, and building a support system. 💼 Whether you're a Broadway hopeful or thriving in community theater, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the best decision for your unique journey. 🎤✨ 01:15 Common Question: Should I Move to New York City? 02:35 Pros of Moving to New York City 09:17 Cons of Moving to New York City 11:10 Considerations Before Making the Move 15:36 Personal Experiences and Final Thoughts ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways to work with us: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Join Cynthia Kortman Westphal as she chats with Kevin Munhall, a Broadway performer turned stress, breath, and somatic educator. Kevin shares his unique insights into how performers can manage stress and anxiety, 😫 emphasizing the importance of understanding their nervous systems and emotions outside the context of performing. 😌 Discover practical strategies to reframe stress, avoid over-rehearsing, build resilience, and foster healthier social connections. Plus, learn why 'co-rumination' can be detrimental and explore the benefits of co-regulation. ❤️ 📣 Want to work with Kevin? Starting April 14th: If you're a performer looking to transform your relationship to nerves, overcome performance anxiety, & befriend your inner artist, this 6 week virtual group cohort is for you! You'll learn research backed breathing, somatic & nervous system practices designed specifically to help you build resilience to stress, stay grounded under pressure & build lasting confidence. ⭐️ Plus, get 25% off with code BWAYVOCALCOACH. 02:04 Understanding Stress and Anxiety in Performers 05:16 Reframing Stress: From Threat to Challenge 06:58 Breathing Techniques for Managing Stress 14:45 The Pitfalls of Over-Rehearsing 18:54 Building Resilience and Social Support 32:26 The Importance of Nervous System Awareness ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways to work with us: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at www.bwayvocalcoach.com 💌Get our free Wednesday newsletter

Of all the musicals currently running on Broadway, all but 3 are firmly under the genre umbrella of Pop/Rock or are significantly influenced by pop/rock music. And that trend is felt in regional theaters and beyond. What does that mean for you? 80-90% of your auditions may be asking for a pop/rock song and you need to be ready! The good news? It's not that deep! You need to develop a few simple skills to demonstrate a basic level of proficiency in this area, instead of passing on opportunities because you don't sound like Beyonce (we wish!). "Not everyone can be Michael Phelps in the pool," and that's ok! Join us as we explore the industry's shift towards contemporary pop rock and discuss practical tips on achieving a level of proficiency that opens doors to exciting opportunities. 01:12 The Evolution of Pop Rock in Musical Theater 02:53 Current Broadway Trends: A Pop Rock Analysis 09:56 Proficiency in Pop Rock Singing 18:39 Choosing the Right Audition Material ⭐️ Ready to finally sing pop music with CONFIDENCE? Here's how ⬇️ 👩‍🎤 Introducing... Pop/Rock Essentials: Musical Theatre Edition! The step-by-step course that focuses on building the essential skills required for authentic pop/rock performances, with practical strategies and tools to help you succeed in today's industry. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways you can work with us here at Broadway Vocal Coach: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at ...

" You need that well-roundedness to bring new life, experience, and choices to the material that you're exploring as a singer!" Discover how learning to sing in multiple styles can benefit your technique, artistry, and imagination. Whether you're a classic soprano, an aspiring pop star, or a musical theatre performer, vocal cross training can enhance your versatility and create new opportunities. We share examples of renowned Broadway performers who excel in diverse vocal styles and provide practical tips for incorporating cross training into your own vocal practice. ⭐️Use the code PODCAST15 to save 15% on BVC Academy & BVC Masterclass 🎓College MT Auditions? Save your spot for Aspire 2025 here! 6 ways you can work with us here at Broadway Vocal Coach: BVC Academy: BVC Masterclass:BVC Aspire:Master Your Mix:whatwhenPop Rock Essentials:BVC Studio: 📱Connect with us @bwayvocalcoach 👩‍💻Find us at ...