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Confessions Of An Actress
By Confessions Of An Actress
Authentic. Honest. Vulnerable. Hosted by Broadway, TV and Film Actress Meredith Patterson. Each week, Meredith sits down with her guests to catch up about their life in the entertainment industry. Imagine dropping in on a phone call between colleagues and friends. Every Wednesday, Meredith gives you tips on how actresses and artists stay healthy; body, mind & spirit, in her bonus episodes called #WellnessWednesday. Just honesty, community, authenticity, holistic health and vulnerability.
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#WellnessWednesday - Mental Health Check In
Meredith checks in on the state of our mental health, wellness, gratitude and connection to the earth during this Pandemic. #holistichealth
October 28, 2020
56 - Confessions with Meredith
Your host, Meredith Patterson, updates you on what she has been up to over the past couple months, moving to Montana, working with The Alpine Theatre Project, Live Streaming with South Devon Players and coloring with Coloring Broadway!
October 23, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - I Got The Corona Virus
Meredith updates you on her journey of testing positive for Covid 19, her journey with her family, her views on the state of the country, and her tips from the Public Health Nurse on how to combat the Corona Virus. This episode has explicit language. Tips for health with Covid: Drink water, take vitamin D, Zinc, drink Tonic Water. Eat fresh veggies and fruits and anti inflammatory diet. Tumeric & Ginger Root. No processed foods. Green Tea. Bone Broth/Virus Fighting broth 💚 #blissisyourbirthright
October 21, 2020
55 - A Confession with Meredith
Before taking a hiatus, Meredith briefly discusses the effects the pandemic is creating for live performers.
July 3, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Adrenal Fatigue
Meredith discusses the condition Adrenal Fatigue and gives tips on how to combat it
July 1, 2020
54 - Julie Tucker
Two Time Emmy Award Winning Casting Director, Julie Tucker of Tucker Meyerson Casting. Follow her on Instagram @julietuckercastingdirector.
June 26, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Transcendental Meditation
Learn about your sympathetic & parasympathetic nervous system and how you can meditate through stress to a state of homeostasis.
June 24, 2020
53 - Leo Ash Evens
LEO ASH EVENS is a Pittsburgh born and bred actor with a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University. Upon signing with his legit agents, CGF Talent defined him as "an enigma". A dynamic song and dance man as well as voice-over artist, signing with Innovative Artists in 2012, Leo enagages his sexy rasp for both rock 'n roll and commercial voice-overs. Currently, he is the voice of Siemens Technology. In his 10th year with MTCA (Musical Theatre College Auditions), Leo has evolved from monologue coach to Assistant Director and is now a proud Co-Director and Co-Owner of the team with partners Ellen Lettrich (Founder), and Charlie Murphy. Leo loves guiding his students to trust their own work and their process, finding the right program and positioning themselves for success in the professional world. Broadway credits: Jesus Christ Superstar (debut); Shuffle Along…(standby for Brooks Ashmanskas, and later taking over the role) directed by George C. Wolfe, choreographed by Savion Glover; and the vacation swing for School of Rock, where he channeled a touch of David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Jem of Jem and the Holograms in his spiky blonde wig. Leo's proudest role to date is the Emcee in Cabaret, winning Best Actor in the Houston Excellence Awards while performing at Houston TUTS. Leo later reprised his role at The Arvada Center in Denver, Colorado. It's the gritty roles that really ignite him. And in a close second place - playing the deliciously deplorable Black Stache in Peter and the Starcatcher. Leo's had the honor of working with theatre legends Chita Rivera, Patti LuPone, Shirley Jones, and Audra McDonald. He treasured the world premiere play, Somewhere, starring Priscilla Lopez, at The Old Globe in San Diego, in which he originated the role of Jamie McRea. Off-Broadway, Leo originated roles in two premiere plays which have since successfully been published. Bobby in Finks by Joe Gilford and Pluto in Jasper in Deadland by Hunter Foster and Ryan Scott Oliver. Leo played Riff in West Side Story several times: for Alan Johnson (50th Anniversary Tour); Joey McNeely (London); as well as for Joshua Bergasse (Gypsy of The Year, Recording Academy Honors, Barrington Stage, and North Carolina Theatre). He is thrilled to be part of this legacy and pass it on through educational workshops. Maybe he'll even try his hand at directing it one day... Showbiz highlight: In 2016, Leo met his idol, The Great Lady of Comedy - Carol Burnett, after her show at The Beacon Theatre in NYC. Inspired by her hilarious, honest, and wry characters, he always admires her compassionate way of sharing herself with her audiences. Leo is the proud son of Earl and Amy, brother of Sarah, and Uncle of Violet! (He's gonna post some Instagram duos of himself and Violet soon - she'll steal your heart!) He gleaned his green thumb from his parents, and hence, time with his house plants, the community garden, and lush walks in Central Park near his apartment on the Upper West Side are a must! Someday soon, Leo wants to adopt a Wheaten Terrier. Follow @leoashevens
June 19, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - White Privilege
What is White Privilege? Meredith breaks it down and gives you tips on how you, as a White person, educate yourself.
June 17, 2020
52 - Marc Summers
Marc Summers is an American television personality, comedian, game show host, producer, and talk show host. He is best known for hosting Double Dare for Nickelodeon, Unwrapped for Food Network, and recently he was Executive Producer for both Dinner: Impossible and Restaurant: Impossible also for Food Network. www.marcsummerstv.com Follow @realmarcsummers
June 5, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Minimalism
This episode Meredith talks about Minimalism. Thank you to the minimalists.com for all they do!
June 3, 2020
51 - Frankie A. Rodriguez
Rodriguez played the role of Mick in the Dekkoo series I'm Fine. He was promoted to series regular for the third and final season. He has had recurring and guest roles in television series Modern Family and This Close as well as in web series Raymond & Lane, That's the Gag, Only Children, and Going Up. In February 2019, it was announced Rodriguez would star in Disney+ series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series as Carlos Rodriguez, the color guard captain and student choreographer. The series premiered that November. Carlos is the first openly gay character in the High School Musical franchise. Rodriguez is from Selma, California and is of Mexican descent. He attended Sanger High School. He is openly gay. Follow @frankiearodriguez
May 29, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - There Are Two Viruses
Inspired by Don Lemon's segment on CNN about Covid 19 and Racism 20, Meredith let's loose in a rant.
May 27, 2020
50 - Valeria Mason
Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Proud Mama & Wife. Wife of Actor Dash Mihok Sister of Violinist Shari Mason. Follow @valemason
May 22, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Learn A New Skill
Meredith gives holistic advice in this bonus episode 💚
May 20, 2020
49 - Alan Campbell
Alan Campbell grew up in Homestead, Florida the son of a third generation farming family, and attended Tulane University and the University of Miami, graduating with a BA in business. Alan shares a daughter, Riley, with former wife, actress Lauren Kennedy. On Broadway: Alan recently played the role of Sam Carmichael in Broadway's hit musical, Mamma Mia!. He received a 1995 Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Joe Gillis in Sunset Boulevard opposite Glenn Close, Betty Buckley, and Elaine Paige. He also received the Drama-Logue Award for his performance in Sunset Boulevard's American Premiere in Los Angeles. Alan starred in Susan Stroman's 2000 Tony Award winning musical, Contact at Lincoln Center. Off-Broadway: Chris Durang's Adrift In Macao, Lanford Wilson's Book Of Days at the Signature Theater and in the regional premiere of Book Of Days at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Hartford Stage. He also starred Off-Broadway in AVOW, by Bill C. Davis. Other theatrical credits include David Mamet's, Race, Death and The Maiden, 12 Angry Men, Noel Coward's Hay Fever at San Diego's Old Globe, Oleanna, Beauty and the Beast, Johnny Guitar, the Kennedy Center's revival of Bell's Are Ringing, Of Thee I Sing at Chicago's Symphony Space, the Ford's Theatre production of On Shiloh Hill, Boogie Woogie Rumble of a Dream Deferred at the Urban Arts Corps in New York, Breakfast at Tiffany's at the St Louis MUNY and productions of I Love My Wife and Larry Shue's The Nerd. Feature films include Weekend Warriors; Bump in the Night; Tom, Dick and Harry, and Universal's A Simple Wish with Martin Short and Kathleen Turner. On television, he co-starred for 5 seasons with Bill Conrad and Joe Penny on CBS's Jake and the Fatman. He also co-starred with John Ritter as surfer "E.Z. Taylor", on ABC's Three's a Crowd, "Evan Grant" on NBC's Another World, "Dr. Ellis Marshall" on All My Children, Contact - "Live From Lincoln Center" on PBS, and in Red Flag, a CBS Movie of the Week. Alan has guest starred on numerous television shows including, Law and Order, Homicide: Life on the Streets, Facts of Life, Throb, Matlock and award winning Web Series, Submissions Only and Then We Got Help. His recordings include Sunset Boulevard, Adrift In Macao, "ABC" A Tribute to Adler, Bock and Coleman and The Best of Andrew Lloyd Webber on Polygram. Alan is an originating member of the Broadway Tenors with Brent Barrett and Brian d'Arcy James. He has sung at the White House and performed for three U.S Presidents. Alan is a Founding Director of Theatre Raleigh/Hot Summer Nights in Raleigh North Carolina and a founding member of H.O.L.A. (Heart of Los Angeles) Youth Theatre, providing an artistic outlet and guidance to inner-city children. www.alancampbell.net Follow @balancampbell
May 18, 2020
48 - Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson made her Broadway Debut as Mona in A Class Act and she played the roles of Helen and Eileen in the Broadway revival of Wonderful Town . PBS "Great Performances" audiences know her for her Olivier- and Helen Hayes- Nominated performance of Lois/Bianca in the West End premiere of Kiss Me Kate. Nancy is also featured in the Great Performances broadcast of South Pacific in Concert at Carnegie Hall starring Reba McIntyre. Off-Broadway, Nancy played Kelli O'Hara's best friend in Frankel and Korie's Far From Heaven at Playwrights Horizons. She received a 2000 Drama Desk Award Nomination for her portrayal of all the Women in Jolson & Co at the York Theater and the 2005 Drama Desk Nominations as the title role in Fanny Hill. Other off-Broadway credits include all the female roles in Yank! as well as the New York revival of Ionescopade, both at the York Theatre. Regionally , Nancy has played leading roles coast to coast, including Adelaide in Guys and Dolls and Oolie/Donna in City of Angels (The Goodspeed Opera House), the title role in Peter Pan and Ilona in She Loves Me (at Papermill Playhouse, NJ), Gloria in Damn Yankees (at Papermill and Fifth Avenue Theater in Seattle), Miriam Aarons in Darko Tresjnak's production of The Women (San Diego's Old Globe), Ordinary Days at South Coast Rep in Costa Mesa, CA, and Helen Hayes nominated performance in Side By Side By Sondheim at the Signature Theater in Arlington, VA. Other favorite roles include the title role in Sylvia at the Cape Playhouse, Polly in Crazy For You at the Pioneer Playhouse, Madeline in By Jeeves (Goodspeed, Geffin, Kennedy Center) and First Fairy in A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Shakespeare Theatre in Washington, DC as conceived by her husband, celebrated director Ethan McSweeny. She has appeared twice with Michael Feinstein at Carnegie Hall and is the 2011 winner of the Noel Coward Cabaret Award Competition. Nancy has performed with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and she sings regularly at Town Hall in Scott Siegel's Broadway by the Year series. Nancy has enjoyed several appearances in the Lyrics and Lyricists series at the 92nd Street Y alongside such greats as Charles Busch and Sheldon Harnick. She has appeared as a guest vocalist with Vince Giordano's Nighthawks, the Bob Hardwick Sound and is frequently seen at the legendary jazz club Birdland with Ross Patterson and His Little Big Band featuring songs from her debut album, "Ten Cents a Dance". www.nancyanderson.name Follow @ancynan
May 15, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Meredith gives her point of view and her frustrations with be an actress at this time.
May 13, 2020
47 - A Confession From Meredith
A check in with your host Meredith Patterson
May 8, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Perspective
Meredith talks about how your perspective is vital and important right now, and always. You are a citizen of the world and your actions have reactions. Be kind. Be safe. Stay Healthy.
May 6, 2020
46 - Todd M Eskin
Todd M. Eskin - CEO/Owner - Head of the Theatre Department Todd is a partner at Across the Board (ATB) Talent Agency, a bicoastal agency with offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Las Vegas representing adult and youth actors, directors, choreographers, and producers in TV/Film, Commercials, Hosting, and Theatre. He is the Chief Operating Officer and Head of the ATB Theatre Department, which he founded in May 2012. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre Performance, Todd became a working member of the Society of Directors and Choreographers, Actors' Equity Association, the American Guild of Variety Artists, and Canadian Actors' Equity Association. Shortly after, he began his representation career as an agent trainee at Abrams Artists Agency in Los Angeles. Todd has clients currently working on Broadway (Hamilton, A Bronx Tale, Book of Mormon, Lion King), National Tours (Kinky Boots, The Wizard of Oz, Flashdance, The Lion King, Ragtime, Saturday Night Fever, Bullets Over Broadway, Mamma Mia, Joseph, If/Then), Las Vegas (Rock of Ages), Regional Theatres (La Jolla, Paper Mill Playhouse, Sacramento Music Circus, Musical Theatre West, 3D Theatricals, Cabrillo Music Theatre), Cruise Lines (Disney Cruise Lines, Princess Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines), Theme Parks (Disneyland, Universal Hollywood, Hong Kong Disneyland), and more. @stage_agent
April 10, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Do Less
Meredith gives health and wellness tips on how to do less during this time when everyone is home wanting to accomplish so much. Breathe. Be Kind. Do Less. Meditate. Focus
April 8, 2020
45 - Tony Vincent
Widely known for his appearance as a finalist on NBC's The Voice, recording artist, actor and producer Tony Vincent has spent the last 22 years of his career operating out of New York City. While at university, Vincent started his own record company, Adobe Flats, writing and producing the EP (Love Falling Down) that led to a recording contract with EMI Records. The two solo albums that followed, (Tony Vincent, One Deed) produced six #1 Billboard radio singles. In 1997 Vincent took a detour into rock-based theater, starring on Broadway in RENT (Mark, Roger), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas Iscariot) and Green Day's American Idiot (St. Jimmy). He played Simon Zealotes in Andrew Lloyd Webber's film remake of Jesus Christ Superstar, and is also featured in the film Andrew Lloyd Webber: Masterpiece. Vincent originated the role of Galileo Figaro in the rock band Queen's We Will Rock You on London's West End and has also fronted the band multiple times including an epic performance of "Bohemian Rhapsody" for Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee, with a live audience of over 1-million people surrounding Buckingham Palace and 200-million viewers globally. Vincent independently released two more albums, A Better Way, produced by Adam Anders (Glee, Rock Of Ages), and the self-produced In My Head, following his showing on The Voice. Tony Vincent is currently headlining the international symphony tour of The Music of David Bowie, and is writing and producing out of his newly relocated recording studio (SoundShop370) in Nashville, TN. Follow @theofficialtonyvincent
April 3, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Remaining Calm in a Time Of Uncertainty
Tips to help during this unprecedented time in our world
April 1, 2020
44 - A Confession From Meredith
How did you begin writing your own music? Did you ever try to get a record deal? Meredith answers all your questions about her brief time trying to be a recording artist.
March 27, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Rejection
How do we deal with rejection in this life and business? Meredith gives tips on the best way to go through the emotion and onto gratitude.
March 25, 2020
43 - Sarah Jane Nelson
A girl in Star City, Arkansas grows up with loving parents who would flirt and sing in harmony to 1960's break-up songs by Elvis Presley and Skeeter Davis. Summers were spent with her Mammy and Pappy traveling to bluegrass festivals in their motorhome, the little curly haired girl dancing to the fiddles and banjos, embraced by the tight-knit bluegrass community. Her father's work takes the family to the bayou of Monroe, Louisiana where the utopia is interrupted when her idyllic home breaks up, rocked by infidelity that nobody saw coming and her world is turned upside down. She retreats to the radio, back to her sad country songs, stories woven around her own pain. In the aftermath, she is determined to split town to make a life is on her own terms. In a head-turning spin, a month after high school graduation, she wins the America'sMiss T.E.E.N. Beauty Pageant where she is scouted by a talent agent. She puts her college plans on hold, moves to New York and in a few short years, this small-town girl is making her Broadway debut in Julie Taymor's "The Green Bird." As if that wasn't a ripe enough story for a roller coaster of a country song, fast forward a few years, girl meets boy, girl gets married, has children, spinning on stage after stage until her history catches up to her and she's playing the part her mother originated, blown sideways by cheating. Once again, she hits the road, landing in Nashville and, as a newly single mother, she turns back to the country and gospel music from her childhood, writing her way to resilience, through the grief, and toward love. With her newest album, "I'm Not Broken," Sarah Jane Nelson adds her own defiantly triumphant voice to the Americana-Country field. Set in a sonic landscape that recalls the era of artists like Wynonna, Kathy Mattea and Mary Chapin Carpenter, "I'm Not Broken" is an honest breath of fresh air, a deliberate throwback to the days when a fiddle, an acoustic guitar and a rich alto voice could celebrate the fullness of a life hard-fought and hard-won. Pedal steel, fiddle and acoustic guitar opens the record on the title track that lifts to an anthemic chorus that wouldn't be out of place on commercial country a decade or two ago: "But I'm not broken, I'm not done I get up more than I'm knocked down Put myself back the way I was found" Moving from ballad to a rocker with a rolling banjo, "Reap What You Sow" is a foot-stomping slap to the woman who steals her man "You can take the laundry, the dishes, the dirty bathroom and the kitchen, oh the grass looks green but there's something you should know". She addresses the ghosts of her past with "Sins of the Father" and even gives us a beautiful acoustic version of The Backstreet Boys' "I Want It That Way," finding the dark intimacy in the 90's monster hit. This is a singer who fits the cliché: "she could sing the phonebook and make it sound good." In fact, her search for her voice led her from musical theater to Shakespeare to a 2011 acoustic blues-influenced record of standards. But Nashville does a funny thing to artists, makes a singer into a songwriter and by singing their own songs, the songs bring out a truer voice, teaching the artist something maybe they had forgotten. As rich as cane syrup, Nelson's honeyed voice is both resilient and vulnerable, gliding through the 12 songs with a gentle familiarity, as if we've known her all along. It's clear this once-musical theater actress has deep roots in country music, as every note rings authentic. This is no small task and not many other singers could pull off this hat trick. Nelson had been toying with her songs for years, writing with babies on her lap, moving from NYC to Oregon to Los Angeles and eventually to Nashville with her first husband, also an actor. But the foundation of her marriage had been crumbling for years and cracked wide open in Nashville. The 12 songs on "I'm Not Broken" are the result of this shift from singing others stories to sing.
March 20, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - An Unprecedented Time
Meredith connects about this time in our world. Fear, worry, taking your health seriously, personal power and choices.
March 18, 2020
42 - Danette Holden
She is a stellar triple threat with 4 Broadway Shows under her belt, the mother of 2 amazing children, 20 Years of marriage to her soulmate - that is Danette Holden
March 13, 2020
Bonus Episode - CoronaVirus 💚
This episode is for my community of artists. I am sending out support, love, and tips on what you can do to give yourself more personal power in this time, and more choices on how to protect yourself than just washing your hands. #holistichealth #blissisyourbirthright #knowledgeispower
March 12, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Heart and Soul
Advice from Friday's Guest, Broadway Actress Danette Holden
March 11, 2020
Episode 41 - A Quick Confession
Meredith takes you through her time working at the Geffen playhouse in Los Angeles with the great Steve Martin.
March 6, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Arbonne 30 Day To Healthy Living Overview
Meredith gives you an overview of the program she uses to detoxify and reset her system at least twice a year. Follow her @meredithbrayley. Website to order www.meredithbrayley.arbonne.com
March 4, 2020
40 - Tanya Memme
Tanya Memme is an Emmy Nominated TV Host, Inspirational Speaker & Soul Centered Coach / Consultant who travels around the world teaching entrepreneurs how to "Build Engagement & Visibility on Camera, Video & Social Media." She is the founder of "Life Masters" a Talk Show/Podcast on ITunes, AppleTV and Roku and on YouTube. She deeply inspires her listeners through the stories of some of the most renowned speakers and mentors in the world. Stories of unwavering perseverance and words of wisdom to help others get through the challenges of life. Tanya is most famous as the host of the Emmy nominated show, "Sell This House" on A&E for 15 years. She also hosted popular shows like "Sell This House Extreme" and "Move This House" on A&E, FYI and BIO Channel and "Home & Family" on Hallmark Channel, Awesomeness TV, "Best Vacations and (syndicated travel show) ET CANADA on Global TV. Tanya was crowned Miss CANADA in 1994 and competed for the coveted title of Miss World in Sun City South Africa. She has traveled the world giving motivational speeches and with World Vision filming and uncovering the truth about Child Trafficking and Child Labor. She was the DirectTV Customer news Anchor for 7 years and has hosted over 50 infomercials. Tanya is big into giving back and makes trips to Guatemala with her dad to help WELLS OF HOPE build schools and bring clean water to remote communities. She has a 7 year old daughter Ava who also appeared (crafting with her mommy) on Hallmark Channel's "Home & Family" for 4 years. Instagram @tanyamemmeofficial www.tanyamemme.com
February 21, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Rise Up from Rock Bottom
Meredith gives tips from her upcoming guest interview this coming Friday. TV Hose and Personality Tanya Memme. To learn more about Meredith's Arbonne 30 Days Healthy Living Program, follow her journey on Instagram @meredithbrayley
February 19, 2020
39 - Phillip Brandon
Phillip Brandon is the Los Angeles-born product of the divinely yoked marriage of Phillip & Brenda Davis. Dad is a big-time jazz lover who took Phillip to his first concert: George Benson. Mom, better known as "Ms. B," is a former Raelettes backup singer for the immortal Ray Charles with whom she travelled the world, bringing back tales of wonder to young Phillip. "I've always appreciated the old school showmanship of groups like Earth Wind & Fire, the O'Jays and Whispers. When I attend a show, I expect a performance! I'll never forget the first time I saw Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. Everyone knew all the songs and came away with a good feeling. It was an experience." Despite family roots, Phillip didn't intend to follow in his mother's footsteps. He attended Venice High School, an international magnet high school where he studied Japanese. He next attended Atlanta's historical Morehouse College on a partial scholarship that required him to tour with their glee club. "We went on tour every spring singing classical repertoire and Negro Spirituals. I love travel so a light bulb went off over my head! I didn't go to school for music, It's just in me." Phillip graduated with a degree in marketing but as the millennium took its turn he took part in singing competitions. "I started seeing more of the world singing in an a cappella group on cruise ships. When I sang, people often asked if I would read lines for them which led me to theater purely by happenstance," Phillip confesses. "I did Disney Hong Kong's 'The Lion King' and then a national tour of 'The Color Purple' playing the roles of 'Preacher' and 'Ol Mister'. Again, by chance, a scout for multi-platinum-selling rock group Trans Siberian Orchestra saw me singing 'Be Prepared' in a YouTube video. I have since been with them for eight years as their 'Narrator,' touring sold out arenas from Seattle to Miami every November to January." Itching to share some expressions from his own heart – "to get some of this crazy out of my head," he laughs - Phillip put together a self-titled five-song EP with producer DrFord in 2013 that got him on the smooth jazz charts with the single, "Sail On." This also gave him an opportunity to road test his cherry-picked band of top tier musicians from all over the world: drummer Victor Á. Carracedo from Spain, guitarist Eugene Gorskiy from Ukraine, keyboardist Stan Loken from America, and bassist Carlitos Cuba…from Cuba! To date they have performed primarily in intimate theatre settings on the west coast in California, Nevada and Arizona, with a couple of stops in New York City. Recently wrapping a role in "Born For This: The Musical" - the life story of Gospel legend BeBe Winans directed by "Motown: The Musical"'s Charles Randolph-Wright with Donald Lawrence as Music Supervisor - Phillip Brandon is operating with deep gratitude as he prepares to embark upon the journey of sharing with the world his amazing debut CD, The Story Begins. "Let's face it: I'm a big black dude with a big voice," Phillip concludes. "I can't tiptoe anywhere! I am truly unapologetic about the space that I take up and am extremely thankful to the strong foundation of support that has allowed me to be successful for 10 years and counting in this business." In this era that has had some challenging moments for folks that look like me, the silver lining is, 'Look how far we have come.' I am always about some hope. (Singer-Songwriter) Richard Marx once said, 'When you're creating, you have to be selfish to share what's on your mind and hope it's on the minds others' as well.' That's me to a T." Follow @phillipbrandon2 www.phillipbrandon.com
February 14, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Breathe, Meditate, It is Ok
Body, mind and spirit wellness advice from your host Meredith Patterson and her upcoming guest, artist Phillip Brandon
February 12, 2020
38 - Audition Confessions
Meredith tells two personal audition stories about auditioning for theatre in New York and Pilot Season in Los Angeles
February 7, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Get Clear
Meredith reflects on Kobe's tragic death and how news like that can have a positive effect on all of our lives to get clear with what matters in life.
February 5, 2020
37 - Barrett Foa
Barrett Foa is a series regular on the hit CBS drama, NCIS: Los Angeles (2009). He plays tech operator/surfer "Eric Beale" alongside Chris O'Donnell, LL Cool J and Oscar winner Linda Hunt. Since moving to Los Angeles in January 2009, Foa has been a recurring guest on Entourage (2004) (as Ari's assistant), and the original NCIS (2003) and guest-starred on Numb3rs (2005) and The Closer (2005) opposite Kyra Sedgwick. On Broadway, Foa starred as the leads of both "Avenue Q" (Princeton and Rod) and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Leaf Coneybear), and was in the original Broadway cast of "Mamma Mia!". He can be heard as "Jesus" on the 20th anniversary cast recording of "Godspell". He has played leading roles at Playwrights Horizons (where he starred in the world premiere of Adam Bock's play, "The Drunken City", a piece he helped workshop and develop), The Public Theatre, New York Theatre Workshop, The York, and John Houseman, as well as at such reputable regional venues as Hartford Stage and The Shakespeare Theatre, D.C. (starring as "Claudio" in William Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing"), Bay Street Theatre (starring opposite playwright Charles Busch), Paper Mill Playhouse, TheatreWorks in CA, The St. Louis MUNY, North Shore Music Theatre, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, Music Theatre of Wichita, Weston Playhouse, and Maine State Music Theatre. Born and raised in New York City, Foa graduated from The Dalton School on Manhattan's Upper East Side. He attended Interlochen Arts Camp for four summers, spent a semester of college at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, and received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from one of the nation's top musical theatre programs, The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He resides in Los Angeles. @barrettfoa
January 31, 2020
#WellnessWednesday - Keto & More
Tips from actor Barrett Foa and Meredith Patterson on how to keep healthy body, mind and spirit 💚
January 29, 2020
36 - DeWitt Fleming Jr.
DeWitt Fleming Jr. is an acclaimed tap dancer, and has performed and taught throughout the world. He has danced as a soloist with Grammy award winning artist such as Wynton Marsalis, Bobby Mcferrin, and Christian McBride to name a few. New York Times says he is, "a non stop source of rhythmic variety and surprise….sparks seem to fly from those shoes!" DeWitt's national tour credits include Riverdance (Lead Tapper), Cirque Du Soliel's Banana Shpeel (Ensemble, featured tapper). His regional credits include Signature Theater's Jelly's Last Jam (Featured ensemble U/S Jelly) and Scottsboro Boys (Ozie/Ruby), Alliance Theater's Sophisticated Ladies (Lead). His off-Broadway credits include Dance Bojangles Dance (Bojangles), Pearl (Bill Bailey), Cotton Club Parade (Lead/Nicholas Brother). TV/Film credits include Boardwalk Empire, Smash, Limitless, and How to be Single. Choreography credits include Boardwalk Empire season 4 (HBO), An Evening with Phyllis Hyman, Dorothy the Musical, Signature Theater's Jelly's Last Jam (Assistant Choreographer) and Scottsborro Boys (Assistant Choreographer). DeWitt is proud to be a Capezio athlete. www.DeWittFlemingJr.com @dewittflemingjrdotcom @dewitrighttapmics From what we discuss in this episode: Follow @atpwhitefish for more information on Alpine Theatre Project in Whitefish, MT
January 24, 2020
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Perspective & Knowledge
Advice from Meredith and the incredible artist, DeWitt Fleming Jr., on health as an artist body, mind and spirit.
January 22, 2020
35 - Awards Season
SAG Awards, Oscars, Golden Globes! Here Meredith's confessions and stories about all things awards for artists in this awesome business called show!
January 17, 2020
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Managing Expectations
Meredith talks about how you can up your mental game and manage what you expect of yourself as an actress and what you expect of this business
January 15, 2020
34 - How Do I Become An Actress?
Meredith answers a listeners question about how to begin in the entertainment industry.
January 10, 2020
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Resolutions
Meredith discusses making resolutions and gives tips to help you body mind and spirit 💚 Visit TerriCole.com for Leave Your Crap in 2019 free download
January 8, 2020
33- Happy New Year
Meredith connects with you on where she is, perspective, gratitude and vision for the new year.
January 3, 2020
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - When To Say No
Meredith reflects on when to say i to auditions and checks in with her audience on this, her final episode of 2019!
December 18, 2019
32 - A Quick Confession
Meredith just gives you one confession and story. Real, authentic and honest
December 13, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Being a Parent and a Performer
This episode helps to give you tips on how to navigate being a parent and being a performer.
December 11, 2019
31 - Audition Stories from Meredith Patterson
Dive in to two contrasting high stakes TV and Broadway audition stories with your host Meredith Patterson.
November 22, 2019
Bonus- #WellnessWednesday - Beauty Tips from Old Hollywood
Here are some fun beauty tips from Old Hollywood. I didn't say all 20, but this gives you a nice insight into the glamour (or not so glamorous) life of the golden age of Hollywood
November 20, 2019
30 - Jen Rudin
Jen Rudin is an award-winning Casting Director, writer and audition coach, and author of the book Confessions of a Casting Director. She has won two Artios awards for casting, and recently nominated for a 2019 Casting Society of America Artios award for her short film Lucy in the Sky. She owns and operates Jen Rudin Casting which casts for film, television, commercials, animation and theater in New York and Los Angeles. Jen also writes a monthly column for Backstage.com on Voice Over casting. Jen Rudin grew up in New York City and began her professional acting career at age eight. She created many new roles in new plays, starred in several television movies, and did commercials. At age twelve, she had her first epiphany at a final callback that she wanted to be a Casting Director – a perfect blend of her photographic memory and love of actors. Her casting philosophy combines the challenge of solving the casting puzzle – who is best for the role? – while creating an honest, positive and comfortable audition environment, in what is often the most stressful of situations. www.jenrudincasting.com Follow @rudinj
November 15, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Dolce far Niente
This week I'm talking about the Italians "Sweetness Of Doing Nothing" and how you can implement that into your life and career 💚
November 13, 2019
29 - Felicia Finley
Felicia Finley is an award-winning singer/performer who has appeared on Broadway, Off-Broadway and in many of the top regional theaters in the US. Broadway: Linda in The Wedding Singer (OBC), Amneris in Aida, Smokey Joe's Café (OBC), Tanya in Mamma Mia!, and the cult favorite, The Life by Cy Coleman (OBC).
November 8, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Toxic People
9 Steps to help deal with toxic people and hopefully remove them from your life. From LawOfAttraction.com
November 6, 2019
28 - Ashley Griffin
A performer and writer, Ashley has appeared on and off - Broadway, as well as in T.V. and film in New York, L.A., London and Chicago. As a writer, Ashley's work has been developed at New World Stages, Broadway's Manhattan Theater Club, Playwrights Horizons and more. Ashley has taught at NYU, and is a member of AEA & the Dramatists Guild. Follow @ashleygriffinofficial
November 1, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Chiropractic Care
The benefits of going to the chiropractor and why you should pay attention to any pain in your body 💚
October 30, 2019
27 - Surprises and Manifestations
Surprises, The Who at The Hollywood Bowl, Tesla and Manifesting with your host Meredith Patterson ⭐
October 25, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Finances For Artists
Learn a little about what you should be doing financially as an artist 💚
October 23, 2019
26 - Answering Fan Questions
A short episode of Confessions, Questions, and Rants ❤
October 18, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Ego
Tips on how to have a healthy ego from StonePsychology.com
October 16, 2019
25 - Checking in with your Host
Confessions, rants, rabbit holes and advice from your Host, Meredith Patterson
October 11, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - 80/20 Rule
Holistic Health Tips straight from my coachings as a Holistic Health Coach and Licensed Massage Therapist.
October 9, 2019
24 - Alet Taylor
Alet Taylor is a bi-coastal actress/writer living in New York City. She is the Executive Director of Creative Development for STAGE Network. Her one-woman show Punk Ass Bitch was filmed in front of a live audience. Stay tuned for updates! Please click here and watch Alet ask Bill Pullman questions on season 2 of The Sinner. Please click here and watch Alet fight like any mama bear would to protect her daughter. Please click here and watch Alet make poor decisions during an earthquake. Follow her on Instagram @alettaylor www.alettaylor.com
October 4, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Proper Posture
Holistic Health Tips from your host Meredith Patterson who is certified in holistic health coaching and is a licensed massage therapist in California
October 2, 2019
23 - James Sims
James A. Sims, is a director, writer and former NFL running back for the NY Giants. But for as long as he can remember, has wanted to make movies. As a child, he would use his grandmother's VHS camcorder to film his own Power Rangers and Star Trek movies. Fascinated with visual effects, he continuously read special effects books to learn the "how-to" behind films such as Superman: The Movie and Star Wars. Growing up in Phoenix and Las Vegas as a straight-A student-athlete gave James the opportunity to earn a full-ride scholarship to the University of Washington for both football and track and field. After taking a horror film class, he decided to become a film major and began making short films with teammates and drama classmates. He graduated and went on to play football with the New York Giants the year before Superbowl XLII... but he's not bitter. Follow @jamesasims What If Wendy Short Film #FollowMe Web Series @watchfollowme Visit www.jamesasims.com for more
September 28, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Getting Back To Gratitude
When we go down the rabbit hole of frustration, self doubt, anger, fear, how we get back to our true self is being grateful.
September 25, 2019
22 - Kade Wise
A New York native of Mediterranean descent, Kade Wise has worked on projects for Fox, Showtime, Spike and A&E alongside names such as Terrence Howard, Taraji P.Henson, Jussie Smollett, Claire Danes, Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Danny Trejo and more. A trilingual triple threat, Kade speaks Arabic and Spanish and regularly advocates for diversity in Hollywood. Follow on Instagram @itskadewise
September 20, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Benefits Of CBD &Marijuana
Brief benefits of using CBD Oil topically. We will discuss much more on this topic in future episodes 💚
September 18, 2019
21 - Erin Mosher
Actress & Singer Erin Mosher recently performed in Meatloaf's BAT OUT OF HELL Musical at City Center in New York City. Her previous theatrical credits include the role of Amneris in Sir Elton John's musical adaptation of AIDA at Drury Lane Theatre in Chicago, The 39 Steps as well as the role of Janet Van DeGraff in The Drowsy Chaperone at Flat Rock Playhouse. Erin played the role of Mrs. Dearly and Tabby Cat in the 1st National Tour of 101 Dalmatians directed by Tony Award Winning director Jerry Zaks which also had a successful run at the Madison Square Garden Theatre in New York City. Additional Theatrical Credits: Melanie in Deep Cover with music direction by Larry Pressgrove (Title of Show), Asian Tour of Jekyll and Hyde (the role of Emma) with Rob Evan and Mandy Gonsales; the Las Vegas production of Mamma Mia! at the Mandalay Bay Resort; Irene in Crazy For You, Sandra in All Shook Up, Fantine in Les Miserables, Percy in The Spitfire Grill, Sarah in Frank Wildhorn's For the Glory with Michael Lanning, Rob Evan, and Keith Byron Kirk; Stephen Flaherty and Frank Galati's Loving Repeating. Visit www.erinmosher.com Follow her @erin.m.mosher
September 13, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Tips to Stay Healthy this Fall
Here are some great tips on how to stay healthy this Fall
September 11, 2019
20 - Your Host Meredith Patterson
Welcome to Season 2 - Your host, actress Meredith Patterson, checks in with you on what she's been up to over the short hiatus! Be sure to leave a question in a voice message at www.confessionsofanactress.com or https://anchor.fm/confessionsofanactress
September 6, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Job Loss, Self Worth & Identity
Tips for body mind and spirit 💚 #blissisyourbirthright
August 21, 2019
19 - Season Finale - Q&A with your Host Meredith Patterson
Your questions have been answered! Meredith checks in with you the listeners and takes your questions and answers them. ❤
August 16, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - 15 Hour Day On Set
How do you power through 15 hour days on set? Some tips to help you thrive 💚
August 14, 2019
18 - N'Kenge
N'Kenge's an artist who's destined to make a serious impact on several musical fronts. From operatic to spiritual, from pop to musical theater, from jazz to blues; tender or intense, N'Kenge's performances are consistent in her technical excellence. Her musical repertoire covers 11 languages and her power and control are uncanny. This Broadway Darling, was recently seen on TV this year as a presenter at the 58th Annual NY Emmy Awards. NY Post called her "Electrifying" in the role of Mary Wells that she originated in Broadway's Smash Hit Motown: The Musical. N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in Sondheim on Sondheim singing alongside Vanessa Williams, Barbara Cook, Tom Wopat and Norm Lewis. Anyone who has witnessed a performance by singer N'Kenge is not only amazed by the incredible power and range of her voice, they are often surprised at the sheer range of credits and accolades she has accumulated in a very short time. These include the White House where she sang for President Bill Clinton and for the Commander-in-Chief Ball for President Obama, London's West End at the Theatre Royal in a tribute to the late great Ray Charles, solo engagements in New York at Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center, even a worldwide broadcast by NPR from the Library of Congress in Washington, DC highlight the extent to which her star has risen. N'Kenge's interest in music began at the tender age of three after her mother enrolled her daughter for dance and piano classes as a means of channeling her daughter's unusual energy. This decision paid off with recitals and a piano scholar- ship by age six. However, when N'Kenge discovered that she possessed a singing voice this startlingly mature youngster began devot- ing herself to its full time development. Her supportive mother taught her many popular songs including the Whitney Houston catalogue of classic ballads in its entirety, and she fondly remembers attending her great grandmothers church in the south whom she credits for her ability to sing Gospel as the result of listening and learning from those amazing southern church singers. Via a family connection Motown Records offered N'Kenge a recording contract while still in her teens and encouraged her to move to California. But her mother, Annette Hoffman, born in Georgia and a strong believer in the power of education decided that her daughter's future would be better served at school, at home in New York. So N'Kenge continued her studies at the H.S. School of Performing Arts, Manhattan School of Music and the Julliard School winning kudos for her voice and beauty. At 17 she won the Lena Horne Singing Competition Scholarship, the ASCAP Leiber and Stoller Award and the Leon- tyne Price Vocal Competition. N'Kenge was crowned Miss Manhattan in the Miss America Pageant which led to appearances on television. These include Good Morning America which led to a chance to perform the National Anthem for "The Mets" at Shea Stadium. She spent her summers performing at Music Festivals in Europe, Israel, and the Czech Republic and it is therefore no surprise that she can sing fluently in eleven different languages! Columbia Artist's recognized her notable vocal talents and through their auspices has given over 100 solo concerts throughout the United States. While still completing her schooling N'Kenge recorded her first solo CD "Red Souve- nir" and continues to present her own program for students with lesser opportunity in schools throughout the coun- try. This young and energetic singer was recently nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress for her portrayal of the leading roles in both the Elton John/Tim Rice Musical "Aida" and in Marion Caffey's "3 Mo Diva's" by the Helen Hayes Awards and the Arizoni Theater Awards. N'Kenge is a frequent soloist in pop programs with the Indianapolis Sym- phony, Baltimore Pops Symphony, New York Pops Orchestra among others. More at www.nkengemusic.com @divankenge
August 9, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - The Four Agreements
Learn about one of Meredith's favorite books "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz and how she apply's it to her mental health as a performer
August 7, 2019
17 - David Dean Bottrell
After studying with the legendary New York acting teacher, William Esper, David began his career on stage performing everything from Shakespeare, to off-beat new comedies to edgy experimental work. His early east coast theatre credits include productions at The Second Stage, The Public Theatre, The Manhattan Punch Line, La Mama, The Long Wharf Theatre and The Actors Theatre of Louisville's Humana Festival. His first TV job was a small part in HBO's historic drama "And the Band Played On." Known for his quirky characterizations, he's since played many major guest star and recurring roles on such shows as "Modern Family," "The Blacklist," "Rectify," "Mad Men," "Justified," "True Blood," "CSI," "NCIS," "Castle," "Bones," "Ugly Betty" "Criminal Minds," "iCarly," "Longmire," and "Days of Our Lives." But he is probably best known for playing the creepy "Lincoln Meyer" on season three of "Boston Legal" (a character created for him by TV icon, David E. Kelley). David is also a produced screenwriter (Fox Searchlight's hit comedy "Kingdom Come"), a columnist, a popular spoken-word performer and an award-winning director ("Available Men"). His critically acclaimed one-man storytelling shows consistently play to sold out houses. Since 2008, he's taught seminars and private classes for professional actors and when time allows, he serves as a part-time adjunct faculty member with the Professional Acting Program at UCLA and at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (both the New York and L.A. campuses) Over the course of his career, David has had the pleasure of working with many acclaimed writers, directors and actors, including Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Candice Bergen, Craig Bierko, Julie Bowen, Delta Burke, Thomas Gibson, Whoopi Goldberg, Angie Harmon, Mark Harmon, Stephen McKinley Henderson, John Heard, L.L.Cool J., Jon Jory, David E. Kelley, Howard Korder, Ian McKellen, Matthew Modine, Timothy Olyphant, Dolly Parton, Richard Schiff, James Spader, William Shatner, Matthew Weiner and Julie White. In 2014, he created and co-produced Sci-Fest LA: The Los Angeles Science Fiction One-Act Play Festival, an annual event consisting of two rotating evenings of short original sci-fi plays featuring actors known for their work in iconic franchises like "Star Trek," "The Walking Dead," "Supernatural," "Lost" and "The X-Files." His first book, "WORKING ACTOR: Breaking in, Making a Living and Making a Life in the Fabulous Trenches of Show Business" is being published by Random House (Ten Speed Press) in February, 2019. Originally from Louisa, Kentucky, David currently divides his time between New York and Los Angeles. To watch a little of his work, click on the DEMO tab in the menu above.
August 2, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Healthy Living Program Overview
Healthy Living Overview To find out more information or to order your own Healthy Living Program, go to www.meredithbrayley.arbonne.com
July 31, 2019
16 - Justin Guarini
Justin Bell Guarini's robust performance career launched with the first season of American Idol in 2002. His stage and screen appearances since then include Broadway productions of American Idiot, Romeo and Juliet, Wicked, and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. Justin has hosted shows shows like Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight along with live events for the TV Guide Network, the Oscars, the Emmys, and the Grammys. He continues to reprise his role as the lovable Lil' Sweet in commercials for Diet Dr. Pepper. Justin is a generous humanitarian: he has advocated for music education funding on Capitol Hill by lobbying for the International Music Products Association. He has worked with Education Through Music Los Angeles, a nonprofit utilizing music education as a catalyst to improve academic achievement, motivation for school, and self-confidence in underserved communities. Justin has also partnered with RandomActs.org and GISH.com to participate in global kindness campaigns. In 2019, Justin founded The Warrior Artist Alliance to help performers achieve success in a challenging industry. He shares his tips, tricks, breadth of experience, and warrior mindset with a community of performers through podcasts, blogs, and dynamic training programs. Justin is dedicated to his loving family; his wife, daughter, and sons make up his happy home. It is here that he draws his support and the desire to live his best life. Instagram @justinguarini Podcast - Audition Secrets www.auditionsecrets.com
July 26, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Overcome Envy & Jealousy
Meredith Patterson is a licensed holistic health educator and coach. She is a graduate of The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and National Holistic Institute.
July 24, 2019
15 - Sam Harris
Sam Harris' diversified career has run the gamut from singer and songwriter to actor on Broadway, film and television to writer, director, producer and author. His now legendary appearances on the premiere season of STAR SEARCH gave him a national platform and his After pulling a weekly audience of more than 25 million viewers a week on STAR SEARCH in it's premier season, Sam and his powerhouse pop, gospel and theater influenced vocals have never looked back. He is a multi-platinum recording artist with 9 studio CDs to his credit including SAM HARRIS and SAM-I-AM (both top 40 hits), STANDARD TIME and DIFFERENT STAGES (produced and conducted by the legendary Peter Matz, and which have been listed on numerous "Top 100 Records of All Time" lists.) Sam has toured extensively in concert and has played to sold-out audiences at major venues including New York's Carnegie Hall, Los Angeles' Universal Amphitheatre, London's West End. He has performed with numerous symphonies including The Boston Pops and participated in Cyndi Lauper's TRUE COLORS tour. Sam has appeared at The White House, on numerous television specials and live productions, and has been a guest artist on virtually every talk show from Leno to Fallon; his favorite in an historic time, when he performed a stirring "You'll Never Walk Alone" on THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW in the week following September 11th. Sam is listed as one of Rolling Stone Magazine's "100 greatest singers of all time." On Broadway, Sam received a Tony, Outer Critic's Circle and Drama Desk nominations for his work in Cy Coleman's THE LIFE as well as a Drama League Award and Drama Desk nomination for his role in Tommy Tune's GREASE and appeared on Broadway in Mel Brooks', THE PRODUCERS. Sam has also starred in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, CABARET, JOSEPH…, HAIR, PIPPIN, THE JAZZ SINGER, THE FIRST WIVES CLUB and the smash hit, one man show SAM. As "Perry Pearl" on the CBS sitcom, THE CLASS, Sam's chameleonic career took a new turn as a series regular, prompting popular columnist, Liz, Smith, to call him "the comedy break breakout character of the television season." His many television credits include, RULES OF ENGAGEMENT, CSI, MAJOR CRIMES and his own segment EXTRA called "Six Degrees of Sam." Sam has also co-starred in the films IN THE WEEDS and ELENA UNDONE as well as several documentaries. Behind the scenes, Sam co-wrote the TBS sit-com, DOWN TO EARTH, which ran for 4 years. He also co-produced the television special LOVE LETTER TO NEW YORK, supervised and directed segments of MICHAEL JACKSON'S 30TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY at Madison Square Garden, wrote music for the award winning film, LITTLE MAN, and co-wrote LIZA'S AT THE PALACE, which won the 2009 Tony Award. He also created and directed the concert event, NEW YORK'S FINEST – BROADWAY'S LEADING MEN. The success of his memoir, "HAM: Slices of a Life" has evolved into the musical play, "HAM: A Musical Memoir" which played to resounding critical success in New York and Los Angeles. Sam is married to Danny Jacobsen and they are the proud fathers of Cooper Atticus Harris-Jacobsen. www.samharris.com
July 12, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - When Does Flirting Become Emotional Cheating? - 9 Red Flags
When is flirting considered emotional cheating? The entertainment industry side of this work place closeness. When is it more than a cast mate or on set "friendship"? Taken from this article: https://psychcentral.com/blog/when-does-flirting-become-cheating-9-red-flags/
July 10, 2019
14 - Marti Cummings
DRAG ARTISTRY Marti grew up on a small farm in Maryland and moved to NYC at the age of 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts. After working as an actor the world of drag came into Marti's life igniting a passion that would become their career. As a drag artist Marti has toured the world entertaining audiences. They can be seen on Fusion TVs show, SHADE Queens on NYC and as a regular fixture on Bravo TVs Watch What Happens LIVE. Marti has appeared through VH1 in a commercial for McDonalds and is the face of NYC GO promoting Pride for the city of New York. They were honored by OUT Magazine on the 2018 Out 100 list and won the Glam Award for Entertainer of the Year in 2019. They have also been nominated for Queerty Award and received the Luminary Award for Dedication to Homeless LGBTQ Youth by The Ali Forney Center Marti's music is available on itunes and spotify and you can see them appearing in NYC up to 6 nights a week. ACTIVISM & POLITICS Marti is the founding president of the Hells Kitchen Democrats in NYC and is a current board member of Manhattans Community Board 9 having been appointed by the Borough President of Manhattan. They arecurrently serving a two year term on the Mayor of NYCs Nightlife Advisory Council and is a member of the board of directors for The Ali Forney Center for Homeless LGBTQ Youth. They also regularly work with other LGBTQ organizations including The Hetrick Martin Institute GET INVOLVED Drag and Politics goes hand in hand. To see Marti perform, book them for an event, or to find out ways to volunteer with different organizations Marti works with send us an email firstname.lastname@example.com #DontBeADick
July 5, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Health & Chronic Complaining
Do you complain a lot and are sick a lot? Do you know someone who does and is always sick? Did you know your health and complaining is connected? This episode is for you. Let's go on the complaint cleanse together (for at least a week) and see how we feel?
July 3, 2019
13 - Jessica Grove
Jessica most recently appeared on Broadway in A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC with Bernadette Peters and Elaine Stritch. Her other Broadway credits include: SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Celeste 2), THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE (Miss Dorothy), and LES MISÉRABLES (Eponine). At age 15, Jessica originated the role of Dorothy in THE WIZARD OF OZ at New York City's Madison Square Garden, as well as on the National Tour, performing alongside legends Mickey Rooney and Eartha Kitt. She received a Jefferson Award nomination for her portrayal, and can be heard on the 1998 Grammy nominated cast recording. Jessica played Polly on the National tour of THE BOY FRIEND (directed by Julie Andrews), recreating the same role Ms. Andrews created in the 1954 Broadway production. Jessica's Off-Broadway credits include ANNE OF GREEN GABLES (Diana Barry), ILLYRIA (Viola), and the World Premieres of IRON CURTAIN, TRANSPORT at The Irish Repertory Theatre, and most recently THE UNDERCLASSMAN (Prospect Theatre Company). Regionally, Jessica has starred as Ariel in Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID, Belle in Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Eliza in MY FAIR LADY (Wilde Award Nomination), The Witch in INTO THE WOODS (Wilde Award Nomination), Amalia in SHE LOVES ME (Connecticut Critics Circle Award Nomination), Maria in THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Sarah Brown in GUYS AND DOLLS, Lil' Luz in GIANT (World Premiere), Laurey in OKLAHOMA! (with the film's Laurey, Shirley Jones, as Aunt Eller), Cinderella in Rodgers and Hammerstein's CINDERELLA with the Nashville Symphony, Luisa in THE FANTASTICKS, Eva in EVITA, Dorothy in WAS (World Premiere), Anne Frank in YOURS, ANNE (Columbus Dispatch Award, Best Actress), and Fleur-de-Lys and Esmeralda in NOTRE DAME DE PARIS (U.S. and English Language Premiere in Las Vegas). Jessica founded The Jessica Grové Fund for the Performing Arts, which financially assists students in her hometown in pursuing their dreams in the arts. She is married to fellow Broadway Actor, Daniel Cooney, who is Head of Musical Theatre at CCPA at Roosevelt University in Chicago and also the Founding Artistic Director of The Encore Musical Theatre Company in Dexter, Michigan. At The Encore, Jessica and Dan are the program directors of the new Maas Conservatory. They are the proud parents of Gavin and Lolly.
June 28, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Contest Winner Revealed 💚
#WellnessWednesday - Contest Winner and topic revealed. To purchase Arbonne go to www.meredithbrayley.arbonne.cm
June 26, 2019
12 - Dustin Brayley
Whether it's performing to sold out arenas in the "Trans-Siberian Orchestra", tearing it up on Broadway (recently in "Rocktopia") or on the screen, Dustin Brayley has demonstrated what a power-house performer he is. For over a decade he has been on, virtually, a non-stop train, bringing his skills to the masses. His amazing career as a musician and actor proves that he's one of the best at what he does. His ongoing career with the "Trans-Siberian Orchestra", the multi-platinum selling band who sold over 1 million tickets in 6 weeks of 2018, has launched him into a new direction of performing. The late Paul O'Neill discovered his talent in 2011 and brought him in to the studio where he sang, not only, TSO songs but everything from Aerosmith to Led Zeppelin as well. A friendship and working relationship was formed and the rest is history. His time with TSO has allowed him to share the stage with some of the best in the business and recently the Hall of Fame inductee Joan Jett. Speaking of Hall of Fame, in 2017 he was inducted in to the "Rock Godz Hall of Fame" along side such greats as Lita Ford and Kenny Aronoff. After receiving his B.F.A. from Shenandoah University, he took his talents to NYC where his first audition ever as a professional actor landed him the lead role in the National Tour of "Broadway's Saturday Night Fever" based on the hit movie starring John Travolta. This would begin his extensive touring career, where for the next 5 years he would jump from show to show including the smash hits "RENT and Miss Saigon" and more. During his run in "Broadway's Rocktopia", he shared the stage with icons in the Rock world. Pat Monahan from Train, Dee Snider from Twisted Sister and another Hall of Fame Robin Zander from Cheap Trick! Oh, and If you look closely you'll see him performing behind Channing Tatum in the Coen Brothers hit "Hail Caesar!" Since 2010 he's produced and starred in a number of Tribute acts, ranging from "The Beatles, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Journey, The Beach Boys" and many more. He's a Virginia boy, turned New Yorker and now resides in sunny Southern California where he lives with his wife Meredith and 2 sons Maxwell and Billy Van. Be on the lookout for upcoming gigs!
June 21, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Benefits Of Massage Therapy
Benefits of Massage Therapy
June 19, 2019
11 - Your Host Meredith Patterson
Meredith Patterson - Your Host and Broadway, TV and Film Actress, Singer & Dancer tells her confessions and takes your questions.
June 14, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Summer Rituals to keep yourself healthy, hydrated, and chill
Wellness Wednesday - Summer Rituals Meredith Patterson is a graduate of The Institute for Integrative Nutrition certified in holistic health coaching and a graduate of The National Holistic Institute, licensed in massage therapy.
June 12, 2019
10 - Actress Donna Lynne Champlin
OBIE and Drama Desk winner Donna Lynne Champlin graduated with high honors from Carnegie Mellon University in 1993. A Princess Grace Foundation award winner and a Presidential Scholar in the Arts, she also received intensive training in Shakespeare and Chekhov at Oxford University on the Advanced Acting Scholarship and The Vira I. Heinz Grant to study abroad. While still in college, she received her Equity card starring as "Dorothy" in The Wizard of Oz with the celebrated Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Champlin made her New York Debut in 1994 at Carnegie Hall starring as "May" in a concert version of Very Warm for May under the direction of acclaimed conductor John McGlinn. Her Broadway debut in 2000 as "Mary Jane" in James Joyce's The Dead was quickly followed by another Broadway turn as "Honoria Glossop" in the Alan Ayckbourn/Andrew Lloyd Webber musical By Jeeves in 2001. In 2002, came the opportunity to work with Carol Burnett and Hal Prince in Broadway's Hollywood Arms - the dramatization of Carol's biography One More Time, in which Champlin played the iconic comedienne. Critics across the country proclaimed Champlin a "show-stopping star in the making" and described her performance as "brilliant", "a triumph", and "a tour de force." Next on Broadway, Champlin played "Pirelli" (and the accordion, flute and piano) in the groundbreaking 2005 revival of Sweeney Todd where the press called her both "hilarious" and "superb". She then joined the Broadway company of Billy Elliot as "Lesley" in 2009 and simultaneously self-produced her solo debut CD "Old Friends" which was voted "One of the Best Ten Albums of 2009" and was hailed by critics as "brilliant", "a masterpiece" and "breath taking". She can also be heard on numerous cast albums including See Rock City, Sweeney Todd, By Jeeves, three and My Life With Albertine as well as many voice-overs. Her film credits include Birdman, A Secret Promise, The Audition, The Dark Half, By Jeeves, and Sweet Surrender. And while her TV credits include The Good Wife, Law And Order, Mother's Day, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, The Annual Tony Awards on CBS, The View (guest star), The Rosie O'Donnell Show, Regis and Kelly and Emily Dickinson of the PBS Voices and Visions series, she is perhaps most well known for her work as the caustic "Kim Gifford' on the hit web-series Submissions Only. Off Broadway, her performance as "Cora Flood" in the 2009 production of The Dark At The Top of the Stairs at The Transport Group (hailed by the NY press as "perfection", "brilliant" and "a privilege to watch"), earned her the prestigious OBIE award. DL went on to win the 2013 Drama Desk Award for her performance as "Woman #3" in Working, The Musical at the Prospect Theatre and the NYMF Award for "Outstanding Performance" for not one but three separate productions including as "Jane Austen" in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Other favorite Off-Broadway credits include "Audrey" opposite Oliver Platt's "Touchstone" in Shakespeare In The Park's As You Like It and "Sophie" in Master Class opposite Edie Falco at the Broadhurst produced by the Metropolitan Opera. Champlin also continues to perform her critically acclaimed one-woman show Finishing The Hat in NYC (SRO at Birdland, Ars Nova and The Laurie Beechman Theatres) and across the country while teaching master classes in acting at many prestigious colleges such as CMU, Hartt and NYU. Also of particular importance to Champlin is her fundraising for three of her favorite charitable organizations, BC-EFA, the ALSA and The Actors' Fund. In addition to being an actress, Donna Lynne also works as a director, writer, stand-up comedienne, pianist, composer, musical director and choreographer. A free-lance writer for Comedy Central, she is currently working on two books; a humorous non-fiction book inspired by her (mis)adventures in the theatre and the other a 'how-to of comedy'.
June 7, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Depression & Adrenal Fatigue
Meredith Patterson is a graduate of The Institute for Integrative Nutrition certified in holistic health coaching and a graduate of The National Holistic Institute, licensed in massage therapy.
June 5, 2019
9 - Adrienne Visnic
Adrienne Visnic is an actress and singer currently based & working in Los Angeles. Born in Colorado, grew up in Philadelphia, trained in New York City, proud University of Southern California BFA Acting alumni. She has worked in Theatre, TV, Film & commercials. Recently, she can be seen as young Kyra Sedgwick on ABC's Ten Days in the Valley. She played Elvis's girlfriend, Dyanne in 3D Theatrical's Million Dollar Quartet The Musical singing classics like "Fever" & "I Hear Ya Knockin'" for a sold out run at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center. Her solo cabaret, who. what. wear. , will be making it's west coast debut at the Rockwell Table & Stage this June! Link for tickets in the news section! Always ready to collaborate & create! www.adriennevisnic.com
May 31, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Spiritual Health
In this #WellnessWednesday - Spiritual Health Episode, Meredith guides you through some tips on how to find balance and happiness in your spirit as an artist and a person
May 29, 2019
8 - J. Elaine Marcos
J. Elaine was born in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. At age 9, she felt the first adrenaline rush of "getting a laugh" on stage at a performing arts camp, and from that moment on, J. Elaine's mission has been to incorporate laughter into everything she did, be it in her dance competitions, in french class or even as the Student Council President of her High School. J. Elaine moved to New York City, pounded the pavement and graduated from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy as a true quadruple threat; singer, dancer, actor, comedian. At the time of graduation, J. Elaine was offered The National Tour of A Chorus Line. She would revisit that iconic show 3 more times in different stages of her career, always playing "Connie Wong, it's always been Connie Wong", under the direction of the one and only Baayork Lee. J. Elaine made her Broadway debut in 1999 in Miss Saigon and continued to work on Broadway in the revivals of Flower Drum Song with Lea Salonga, Wonderful Town with Brooke Shields, Sweet Charity with Christina Applegate, A Chorus Line with Mario Lopez, and as "Lily St. Regis" opposite Jane Lynch in Annie. J.Elaine originated roles in The Wedding Singer as Imelda Marcos, and as scene stealer "Cynthia" in Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Yes, she was that gal with the iconic ping pong number. It should be noted that J. Elaine has had the opportunity to shoot ping pong balls into the audience in two different Broadway shows, without the use of a paddle. In 2008, after an ACL knee injury, J. Elaine chasséd away from musicals to pursue comedy in film and television. J. Elaine made her feature film debut in Morning Glory opposite Rachel McAdams playing "Lisa Bartlett" and continued to appear on the big screen in St. Vincent with Bill Murray, Before I Disappear, and in the critically acclaimed documentary Every Little Step, which chronicles the emotional audition process for the Broadway Revival of A Chorus Line. She has worked on 2 Broke Girls, Grace and Frankie, 30 Rock, Rescue Me, and Law & Order: SVU. As a comedian now living in LA, J. Elaine writes and produces her own comedy Blog Motivational Mondays with "V" on her YouTube Channel as well as continuing to produce her own brand of comedy which incorporates everything a Broadway gypsy does well; singing, dancing, acting, and anything else to get a laugh. www.jelainemarcos.org #podcast #confessionsofanactress #new #newepisode #actress #broadway #friday #jelainemarcos #meredithpatterson #jessetylerferguson #barrettfoa #dancastellaneta #stephanieblock #christineebersole #rosieodonnell #chasebrock #baayorklee #bobavian #achorusline #whatIdidforlove #conniewong #annmiller #makebelieve #mariskahargitay #pingpongballs #selfhelp #tonyrobbins #lawandordersvu #improv #goldenhandcuffs #rentlive #amda #amdaallumni #mirandasings #motivationalmondays #dancer #triplethreat #quadruplethreat #truth #authentic #funny #comedy #DontRingTheBell #NavySeal #vacation #ChaseBrock #LaughIn #Annie #BreneBrown#FeelTheFearAndDoItAnyway
May 24, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday - Tips for your Body
Meredith Patterson, your host, is certified in Holistic Health Coaching, is a Licensed Massage Therapist, and a Broadway Actress, Singer & Dancer. This makes for a fabulous combination for tips for body, mind and spirit health for artists, actresses....and humans really. Enjoy 💚
May 22, 2019
7 - Annie Sherman
Annie Sherman is a Los Angeles and Ventura County based actor/singer/dancer. She holds a BA in Theatre Arts from California Lutheran University, where she performed with their resident company at the Kingsmen Shakespeare Festival. Some of her favorite roles include Katherine in Taming of the Shrew, Velma Von Tussle in Hairspray, Janet van de Graaff in The Drowsy Chaperone (Ventura County Four Star Theatre Alliance Award-Female Lead Performance), Val and Bebe in A Chorus Line, Officer Lockstock in Urinetown, Ethel Peas in Thoroughly Modern Millie, and 11 different characters in Spamalot. She is also a recent graduate of The National Holistic Institute, is a Licensed MT and Advanced Neuromuscular Massage Therapist in training.
May 17, 2019
Bonus - #WellnessWednesday Tips For Artists
This is a new segment called #WellnessWednesday. These episodes will contain quick tips from your host Meredith for fellow artists on how to be at your best body, mind and spirit. 💚
May 15, 2019
6 - Martina Sykes
Our guest this episode is Broadway Singer & Actress, Martina Sykes. Martina is currently on tour with The Lion King as Shenzi. She made her Broadway debut in Motown the Musical, and also toured with the production. Her brother is Broadway actor, Ephraim Sykes. Follow her on Instagram @ladysykes1
May 10, 2019
5 - Raquel Castro
Raquel Castro became a breakout star playing the lead role in Kevin Smith's feature film, "Jersey Girl", alongside megastars Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck. While promoting the film Jersey Girl, Raquel charmed the talk-show circuit appearing as a guest on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, Ellen and The Sharon Osborne Show. She was also a guest star and first ever co-host with Ryan Seacrest on his show "On Air" with Ryan Seacrest." By age 10 Raquel was appointed the youngest correspondent ever for Entertainment Tonight, where shehad the opportunity to interview high-profile celebrities, Paula Abdul, Jim Carey, Cameron Diaz, Queen Latifah, Adam Sandler, Mary Kate and Ashley, Hilary Duff and more at the "Kid's Choice Awards". Raquel's acting career continued to flourish, as she appeared/guest starred in Law & Order SVU, and the world premiere of Broadway's "White Christmas" as Susan Waverly. She also made her first music video debut featured as "Little Nicole" in Ludacris/ Mary J. Blige video "Runaway Love." More recently Raquel guest-starred on Blue Bloods, MTV's Awkward, had a recurring role as Marisol on the Fox hit show "Empire" In Cookie & Hakeem's Latin Girl group Mirage À Trois. Showing her comedic side, Raquel brought South Salamanca to life in Disney's Liv & Maddie. Her recent feature film release "From NoWhere", so relevant to today's immigrants has garnished several awards. Coming to a theatre near you, is the soon to be released feature "TEN" Based on the novel by Gretchen McNeil. Written & Directed by Chris Robert & Produced by Clay Pecorin, and Russell Geyser. Raquel will begin filming, the film "Green Dolphin" with Sean William Scott, Justin Skye, and executive produced by Keanu Reeves, then off to film a feature from the award winning Sundance short "Stronger Than Pretty" followed by Loving Brooklyn. As a finalist on Christina Aguilera's team on NBC's Emmy Award winning show, "The Voice, Raquel recalls her most memorable stage moment: "Performing "Lady Marmalade" with Christina Aguilera and the team. However, she credits the show, to pivotingher focus more on her music career & helping her becoming a talented songwriter.
May 3, 2019
4 - Tiffany DeMarco
In this episode, actress Tiffany DeMarco talks about how she developed her passion for film when she was very young. Having grown up in Los Angeles, her father, always told her stories of the wonderful world of moviemaking. As an actress, among many shorts and supporting roles in films, she's been the lead in the feature film "Anarchy Parlor" which headlined at Screamfest LA and is currently on SHOWTIME. She has graduated from California State University of Northridge with a Bachelors in Cinema and Television production. Tiffany also writes, directs, and produces her own YouTube Series The Life Of An Actress that has gone viral with over 13 million viewers. We talk about creating your own content, and how Tiffany hopes to illustrate to aspiring artists the importance of creating work for themselves instead of relying on others to do it for them. #podcast #newepisode #confessions #confessionsofanactress #meredithpatterson #tiffanydemarco #thelifeofanactress #hollywood #broadway #showtime #youtube #actress #tv #film #lovewhatyoudo #new #instagood #andypagana #artist
April 26, 2019
3 - Ruth Williamson
Meredith sits down with veteran Broadway & TV actress Ruth Williamson to discuss the highs and lows of life as an actress, her big break, the benefits of plastic surgery, stage vs television acting, and so much more! Follow her @wruthws #broadway #actress #confessionsofanactress #podcast #newepisode #explore #instagood #tv #meredithpatterson #love #work #real
April 19, 2019
2 - Christiane Noll
This New York born, New Jersey raised actress received TONY and Drama Desk Award nominations and won a Helen Hayes Award for her portrayal of Mother in the Kennedy Center Revival of RAGTIME on Broadway. She is currently starring in the record-breaking First National Tour of DEAR EVAN HANSEN. She made her Broadway debut creating the role of Emma in JEKYLL & HYDE, receiving a FANY award for Best actress in a musical. Ms. Noll received her second Drama Desk nomination for her work in CHAPLIN on Broadway. She has been seen perennially as Sister Margaretta in NBC's THE SOUND OF MUSIC LIVE with Carrie Underwood and she supplied the singing-voice of Anna in the Warner Brothers animated feature THE KING AND I. She has also enjoyed starring in Broadway productions of ELF (at Madison Square Garden), IT AIN'T NOTHIN' BUT THE BLUES and on tour in URINETOWN (Ovation Award), THE MAMBO KINGS, GREASE!, MISS SAIGON and CITY OF ANGELS as well as a tour of Australia and Thailand of SOUTH PACIFIC. With a reputation for great versatility, Ms. Noll has performed a varied repertoire in Broadway, Operetta and Jazz. She has been a frequent guest soloist with symphony orchestras in every state in the USA, as well as international appearances with Toronto Symphony, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Jerusalem Symphony, Sinfonica Brasileira in Rio, China Philharmonic with concert pianist, Lang Lang and orchestras in Hong Kong, Czech Republic and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She made her Carnegie Hall debut with Skitch Henderson, in his last pops performance with The New York Pops and sang with Steven Reineke SONDHEIM! THE BIRTHDAY CONCERT at Carnegie Hall. She made her Hollywood Bowl and O2 Arena debut singing with Julie Andrews in GIFTS OF MUSIC and her opera debut with Placido Domingo in THE MERRY WIDOW at the Kennedy Center as well as operetta performances in City Center Encores! THE NEW MOON, THE STUDENT PRINCE, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE and THE MIKADO. Ms. Noll has premiered shows Off-Broadway and regionally: SNOW CHILD, OCTOBER SKY, City Center Encores! 1776, John Kander's KID VICTORY, THE COTTAGE, THEY'RE PLAYING HIS SONGS, ACE (Helen Hayes nomination), THE WITCHES OF EASTWICK, THE PIPER, FRANKENSTEIN, KEPT (Krieger/Russell), CALL THE CHILDREN HOME, A FINE AND PRIVATE PLACE, TAKE FLIGHT (Maltby/Shire), LITTLE BY LITTLE and LIZZIE BORDEN. And happily starred in favorites NEXT TO NORMAL (Connecticut Cristics Circle award), FOLLIES (St. Louis Critics Circle award), CLOSER THAN EVER (Off-Broadway Alliance award), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, MARY POPPINS, 1776, THE KING & I, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, INTO THE WOODS, MACK & MABEL (Connecticut Critics Circle Award), THE BAKER'S WIFE, THE SOUND OF MUSIC (Salzburg Marionette Theare), and CAROUSEL. Ms. Noll as also enjoyed television performances on LAW & ORDER SVU, MADAM SECRETARY, and THE GOOD FIGHT. Christiane has performed her solo shows in cabaret at 54 Below, The Metropolitan Room, Birdland, The Regency, The Nikko, The Plush Room, The Duplex, The Nevermore, Arci's Place, The China Club, Peaches, B.Smith's and The West Bank Café as well as appearing in Town Hall's BROADWAY BY THE YEAR and the Lincoln Center's AMERICAN SONGBOOK SERIES. Along will many cast albums and compilation recordings, she has released five solo CD's, CHRISTIANE NOLL – A BROADWAY LOVE STORY and THE IRA GERSHWIN ALBUM, both on Fynsworth Alley, LIVE AT THE WESTBANK CAFÉ on 2Die4 Records, MY PERSONAL PROPERTY on Jay Records and GIFTS – LIVE AT 54 BELOW on Broadway Records. Christiane is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University. ChristianeNoll.com - Twitter: @christianenoll - Instagram: @christiane.noll
April 12, 2019
1 - Meet your Host Meredith Patterson
Get to know your host Meredith Patterson as she takes you through some personal childhood stories, describes her own headshot and resume while recalling Julie Andrews getting her a meeting with late director Garry Marshall and how she got the job of teaching Channing Tatum how to tap dance!
April 5, 2019


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Thread: Schizophrenia: A Memoir
December 13th, 2006, 10:39 AM #1
Schizophrenia: A Memoir
An Excerpt From My Memoir
by Robin Cunningham for the HealthCentral Network
The perspectives I can provide on schizophrenia are not those of a psychiatrist, psychologist or licensed clinical social worker, but rather those of a consumer and a family member. I have walked the walk on both sides of the street. As such, I can speak with experiential authority. It is my objective to share with you, as best I can, what my experience with schizophrenia has been like on a day to day basis, i.e., to compare notes with you. I will also make observations about being a family member and advocate based on my own experience. Any observations or comments you choose to make in return will be of great value.
In this blog, I'm going to present an abridged excerpt from my upcoming memoir One Mind Two Worlds along with commentary. The narrative prior to the excerpt is to set the scene. In my closing observations, I will indicate what I believe to be the significance of the events described.
The first symptoms of schizophrenia I experienced were thought insertions.
Raised in a fundamentalist religious sect, I had been taught all my life that Satan was after me, was clever and ruthless, and I had to be forever vigilant. It was, therefore, no great surprise when he first inserted blasphemous thoughts into my mind using my own voice. I was stunned, however, when my family tried to convince me I was mentally ill and needed treatment. I was greatly offended. Their suggestions terrified me. Severe bouts of anxiety soon followed.
From the outset I also experienced anosognosia and soon became delusional. I did not believe I was ill, but rather under siege by Satan because God had given me a sacred mission that would save the universe.
Within a week I found myself in a private psychiatric hospital. I vowed to refuse all treatment.
The following abridged excerpt recreates my first encounter while in the hospital with my psychiatrist and shortly after an agonizing bout of anxiety.
"Your nurse, Beth, told me that things got a little rough this morning." Dr. Levy said.
I did not respond.
"Is Satan still putting thoughts directly into your mind?"
"Beth says you left us for about an hour, that you turned completely inward. She was worried about you."
"She doesn't understand."
"No. I suppose not. But then, she didn't do anything to make matters worse, did she?"
"Well, that's good. And you're right. She doesn't understand what you were going through. Perhaps she never will. But that's not surprising. Not many people do, you know."
"But you understand, don't you."
"Perhaps I do, at least more than some."
Dr. Levy was being modest. I knew intuitively that he somehow fully appreciated the nature of my terror.
"How is it that you understand when no one else does?"
"Well, I've been at this for a long time."
Neither of us spoke for several minutes.
"Well, if there's anything you need, just let Beth know, and we'll take care of it."
Dr. Levy got up to leave.
"Dr. Levy?"
"Does everyone think I'm sick?"
"Does it matter?" He asked, sitting down again.
"Then why do you ask?"
"You told my mother when we were in your office that you had treated my Uncle Walt and Aunt Mildred for a while. Were they sick?"
"Why do you ask about them?"
"I'm not sick. It would be a mistake for anyone to think that I am."
"Why does that concern you?"
"I don't want to end up in the state hospital like they did. I've visited my aunt there. It's a horrible place."
"Why did it seem so horrible?"
"It was full of really strange people. They scared me. They didn't know what they were doing."
"I can see where that must have been frightening. But you don't have to worry. You're not going to end up at Eastern State. I promise. You and I'll make sure of it."
"Good. It wouldn't be right."
We sat in silence for several minutes.
"Well, I have to get back to my office," Dr. Levy finally said.
Again, he got up to go.
"Dr. Levy?
"Do you think I'm sick?"
"You've told me that you're not. That's good enough for now."
The significance of this pivotal conversation with Dr. Levy was his unconditional acceptance of me and what I perceived to be my circumstances. Dr. Levy was the only one that didn't insist I was mentally ill, didn't immediately challenge my delusions, didn't try to tell me he knew more than I about what was happening to me, didn't make demands upon me I could not fulfill, and didn't lay a guilt trip on me. In other words, he treated me with respect. This cemented our relationship from the outset and initiated a foundation of trust which enabled me to take the medicines he prescribed and embrace his many suggestions, including effective coping mechanisms.
Reprinted with permission from HealthCentral's Schizophrenia Connection at www.schizophreniaconnection.com.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Includes These Topics:
- Reading: Uppercase Alphabet A to Z
- Math: Numbers 1–5, Circles, Squares, Triangles, Rectangles, Diamonds, and Stars
- World Around Us: Getting Dressed, My Body, and The Market
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a doubt."


text:
J.M. Coetzee: South Africa and the Politics of Writing
University of California Press, 11 jun. 1993 - 160 pagina's
David Attwell defends the literary and political integrity of South African novelist J.M. Coetzee by arguing that Coetzee has absorbed the textual turn of postmodern culture while still addressing the ethical tensions of the South African crisis. As a form of "situational metafiction," Coetzee's writing reconstructs and critiques some of the key discourses in the history of colonialism and apartheid from the eighteenth century to the present. While self-conscious about fiction-making, it takes seriously the condition of the society in which it is produced.
Attwell begins by describing the intellectual and political contexts surrounding Coetzee's fiction and then provides a developmental analysis of his six novels, drawing on Coetzee's other writings in stylistics, literary criticism, translation, political journalism and popular culture. Elegantly written, Attwell's analysis deals with both Coetzee's subversion of the dominant culture around him and his ability to see the complexities of giving voice to the anguish of South Africa.
Wat mensen zeggen - Een review schrijven
We hebben geen reviews gevonden op de gebruikelijke plaatsen.
Geselecteerde pagina's
The labyrinth of my history Dusklands and In the Heart of the Country
Reading the Signs of History Waiting for the Barbarians
Writing in the cauldron of history Life and Times of Michael K and Foe
Conclusion Age of Iron
Works Cited
Overige edities - Alles weergeven
J. M. Coetzee: South Africa and the Politics of Writing
David Attwell
Geen voorbeeld beschikbaar - 1993
Veelvoorkomende woorden en zinsdelen
Afrikaner Age of Iron allegory apartheid argues assertion attempt authority Barbarians Black Consciousness calls Cape Coetzee's fiction Coetzee's novels Colin Bundy context critical critique Cruso culture Dawn Dawn's death debate developed Dovey Dovey's Dusklands emerges emphasis Empire essay ethical explore fact father final Foe's Friday Friday's girl Gordimer Hendrik imperialism intellectual involves J. M. Coetzee Jacobus Coetzee Joll Kafka Klein-Anna language later fiction liberal linguistic literary literature Magda Magistrate Magistrate's means ment metafiction Michael Michael K Michael Vaughan mother mythography Namaquas narrative narrator Novels of J. M. Pale Fire parody political position postcolonial postmodernism Prague School problem question reading realism reflexive relations relationship represents resistance Roxana says Schreiner seems self-consciousness semiotic sense sequence simply situation social South Africa speak story structure struggle Susan teleology textuality tion tradition Viet Cong Vietnam Waiting white South African words writing
Populaire passages
Pagina 85 - Empire has located its existence not in the smooth recurrent spinning time of the cycle of the seasons but in the jagged time of rise and fall. of beginning and end. of catastropheEmpire dooms itself to live in history and plot against history.
Pagina 137 - ADVENTURES OF ROBINSON CRUSOE , Of YORK. MARINER: Who lived Eight and Twenty Years, all alone in an un-inhabited Island on the Coast of AMERICA, near the Mouth of the Great River of OROONOQUE; Having been cast on Shore by Shipwreck, wherein all the Men perished but himself. WITH An Account how he was at last as strangely deliver'd by PYRATES. Written by Himself.
Pagina 15 - He defines the other choice, that of rivalry - obviously a position he himself identifies with - as resulting in: a novel that operates in terms of its own procedures and issues in its own conclusions, not one that operates in terms of the procedures of history and eventuates in conclusions that are checkable by history (as a child's schoolbook is checkable by a schoolmistress).
Pagina 78 - Continuous history is the indispensable correlative of the founding function of the subject: the guarantee that everything that has eluded him may be restored to him; the certainty that time will disperse nothing without restoring it in a reconstituted unity; the promise that one day the subject - in the form of historical consciousness - will once again be able to appropriate, to bring back under his sway, all those things that are kept at a distance by difference, and find in them what might be...
Pagina 37 - I'll never know, in the silence you don't know, you must go on, I can't go on, I'll go on.
Pagina 3 - The point is that texts have ways of existing that even in their most rarefied form are always enmeshed in circumstance, time, place, and society — in short, they are in the world, and hence worldly.
Pagina 15 - ... schoolmistress). In particular I mean a novel that evolves its own paradigms and myths, in the process (and here is the point at which true rivalry, even enmity, perhaps enters the picture) perhaps going so far as to show up the mythic status of history — in other words, demythologising history ... a novel that is prepared to work itself out outside the terms of class conflict, race conflict, gender conflict or any of the other oppositions out of which history and the historical disciplines...
Pagina 107 - The planting is reserved for those who come after us and have the foresight to bring seed. I only clear the ground for them. Clearing ground and piling stones is little enough, but it is better than sitting in idleness.
Pagina 72 - What has made it impossible for us to live in time like fish in water, like birds in air, like children? It is the fault of Empire! Empire has created the time of history.
Pagina 15 - In times of intense ideological pressure like the present, when the space in which the novel and history normally coexist like two cows on the same pasture, each minding its own business, is squeezed to almost nothing, the novel, it seems to me, has only two options: supplementarity or rivalry.
Verwijzingen naar dit boek
Current Writing
Geen voorbeeld beschikbaar - 1996
Alle resultaten in Google Boeken »
Modern Confessional Writing: New Critical Essays
Jo Gill
Geen voorbeeld beschikbaar - 2006


text:
Internet of Things
Discover the potential of connected buildings
The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming our world, connecting multiple devices to make our lives easier, safer and more comfortable. Discover what IoT means for the future of HVAC, from cloud connectivity and all-in-one simplicity, to fast, easy commissioning and remote monitoring.
IoT Highlights
The future of HVAC systems is connected
To help you meet the future needs of connected buildings, Belimo has developed intelligent devices for HVAC systems that improve efficiency and provide greater comfort. With intelligent cloud connectivity, you can now more easily optimise, service, and maintain your buildings. For more than 40 years, Belimo has provided high quality HVAC components. Empowering customers in a connected world to do their jobs better, faster, and easier further solidifies Belimo as the industry's solution leader.
Enter the IoT era together with confidence
The Internet of Things is opening up a new era of possibilities, making it easier than ever to collaborate with partners to offer new products. But it also presents a number of operational concerns and adoption barriers. These include everything from security and privacy to data sharing and data overload. Find out more on the Belimo Cloud Ecosystem, interfaces to partners and how Belimo can help to overcome the challenges.
Belimo Cloud Ecosystem
Enter the Belimo Cloud developer space
Ready to start developing your new application?
You can now more easily optimise, service, and maintain your buildings because with the Belimo Cloud you have access to all of your devices connected to the internet.
Security / privacy
Cloud connectivity may make your HVAC systems smarter, but critical performance data needs to be safe and secure. That's why the Belimo Cloud Ecosystem protects cloud data, ensures device communication via secure connections and proper integration of user-management access rights.
Another key IoT challenge is data privacy – namely who controls the data and who sees it. Belimo stores all system data in a secure cloud in which only the authorised user has access to their data. This account also provides access to a user-friendly and customisable web application interface.
Links and downloads
Privacy Policy
FAQ: Belimo Cloud Security & Privacy
(pdf -
Cloud architecture
The Belimo Cloud Ecosystem guarantees maximum reliability and efficiency for connected Belimo components, performance devices, HVAC solutions and their applications in the internet. Secured connections enable data transfer and accessibility to and from the core cloud, the device data and account management. Every produced device is known in the cloud. This fact combined with https secured connections make communication safe. Through client API, so called Cloud Business Applications (CBA's) connect to core cloud and use the offered services and diagnosis possibilities. Belimo knows different cloud connectivity types on its products. Permanent ethernet or temporary smartphone NFC connection are currently in use.
Cloud business applications
A powerful client Application Programming Interface (API) on the Belimo core cloud allows 3rd parties to develop their own services called CBAs (Cloud Business Applications). The client API provides cloud account management and read / write access to the owned devices as well as their state and historical data. The API documentation and access tokens are available for Belimo approved developers. For more information, please contact your Belimo representative.
Connectivity types
Components, performance devices and HVAC solutions from Belimo have several connection possibilities to the Belimo Cloud. Permanent ethernet connection enables the device to have permanent data exchange and instant remote access from and to the cloud through device API. NFC and APP technology enable short-term data synchronisation and temporary remote access via smartphone to the NFC equipped devices to and from the cloud.
FAQ: Belimo NFC
(pdf -
Cloud Connection Guide
(pdf -
Belimo Cloud Manual
(pdf -
Internet of Things (IoT) Glossary of Terms
(pdf -