How can your art be a catalyst for social impact? In this episode, Jennifer speaks with Ashley-Lauren Elrod, Emmy-nominated producer and founder of the mission-driven production company, Visionary Woman Productions. Ashley-Lauren shares her inspiring journey of marrying advocacy with art that focuses on impactful storytelling to combat and address sensitive issues like sexual assault, domestic violence, and the stigma around mental health. She provides tangible tools for artists and entrepreneurs looking to build mission-driven companies, including how to legally establish a business, the back-end necessities, onboarding clients, and various ways to secure funding. This conversation is a reminder of the vast ways art can be used to inspire, advocate, and drive tangible change, from influencing legislation to empowering communities.

About Ashley-Lauren: Ashley-Lauren Elrod is an award-winning triple-threat, versatile professional with proven acting, producing, casting, directing, and production design expertise. Her unique approach to media, film, and marketing through her company Visionary Woman Productions makes her a highly sought-after industry dynamo who is known for her exceptional thought leadership and nonprofit advisory work. As a board-certified, trauma-informed leader, CSA survivor, and suicide attempt survivor, Ashley-Lauren connects her story in all that she does, partnering with organizations to raise awareness, change legislation, and tell powerful stories that need to be told. Ashley-Lauren is a true champion of diversity, safety, and inclusivity in all aspects of entertainment, media, marketing, and advocacy. She brings fresh perspectives, energy, and spirit to every project she takes on. Her passion is to impart the tools and knowledge to help people lead a fruitful and audaciously authentic life and to assist clients in achieving their creative vision through bold, audacious moves.

Ashley-Laurens’s IGs: @ashleylaurenofficial

Ashley-Lauren’s Website: www.ashleylaurenonline.com

Visionary Woman Productions IG: @visionarywomanproductions

Visionary Woman Productions Website: www.visionarywomanproductions.com

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com

What makes a good adaptation? In this episode, Jennifer chats with screenwriter Victoria Male about the art of adapting material for the screen. Victoria shares her journey into screenwriting, inspired by her love of historical storytelling, and offers practical tools for reimagining stories with personal truth. The conversation explores how to approach adaptation, from acquiring rights through shopping agreements to better understanding intellectual property to structuring a TV pilot or screenplay to preparation with mood boards, cheat sheets, and outlines for staying true to the source material. They discuss balancing instinct and research, collaborating with authors, and honoring the original material while finding your unique way to tell a story that feels both personal and universal. They also talk about researching the market, connecting with collaborators who share your vision, and the importance of loving your project. Whether adapting a novel, article, or historical event, this episode empowers creators to reimagine stories authentically and bring them to life in new ways.

About Victoria: Victoria Male is a 2023 Academy Nicholl Fellowship Finalist whose screenwriting also made the 2024 Love List of best-unproduced romance scripts in Hollywood. Her prose has been published worldwide in fifteen literary magazines and she's written op-eds for major publications. Most recently, she served as In-House Writer for the audio entertainment platform PocketFM. Victoria worked with some of the most prolific talent in Hollywood today during her years in creative development at The Montecito Picture Company/Ghost Corps under Ghostbusters’ director/producer Ivan Reitman and at the Western arm of media startup Graphic India.

Victoria’s IGs: @VictoriaMale1

Victoria’s Website: victoriamale.com

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com

What does it mean to care for yourself? In this episode, Jennifer chats with Tara Nicolas —actor, global Nike trainer, Reiki master, meditation instructor, and community healer —who opens up about her physical and emotional journey through her many titles and personal life. She shares how a post-surgery healing process shifted her perspective on rest, movement, and the art of asking, “What do I truly need today?” Plus, she discusses balancing career highs with personal lows while discovering the beauty in letting go of control. Together, they unpack the power of self-trust, the importance of pausing, advocating for one’s needs in medical and personal spaces, cultivating flow amidst chaos, and redefining productivity by honoring the messy, beautiful truth of all that you are.

About Tara: Tara A. Nicolas is a Washington, D.C. native with Haitian roots who now calls Brooklyn home. Her journey into the arts began at the age of three in Lomé, Togo, and hasn't slowed down since. After earning her B.A. from UPenn, she followed her passion to the bustling streets of New York City. You might recognize her from commercials, leading workouts on Netflix’s Nike Training Club, in episodes of the CBS series FBI, or Godfather of Harlem on MGM+.

A multi-hyphenate, Tara’s artistic career spans acting, singing, and dancing mediums, leading her to work with some of the most illustrious names in the business, including Beyoncé, Queen Latifah, Forest Whitaker, Giancarlo Esposito, Fatima Robinson, and Megan Thee Stallion, among others. Beyond the spotlight, an unexpected life event led Tara on a lasting wellness journey, fueling her roles as a Global Nike Trainer, Reiki Master, and Meditation Instructor. When she’s not programming a spicy workout, Tara dedicates the rest of her time to community healing. A known face within Brooklyn, Tara hosts and supports wellness events geared toward women and communities of color, including one of her more popular events—Tea Time with T. For more about Tara and her work, visit her wellness company, Avocho.co.

Tara’s IGs: @taraanicolas and @TeaTimeCommunity

Tara’s Website: Taranicolas.com

Tara’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@taraanicolas

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com

Ever wonder how comedy, acting, and skincare can collide to create a thriving career? In this episode, Jennifer chats with actress and skinfluencer, Jillian Gottlieb, who turned her frustrations with theater into a flourishing, candid, and comedic social media presence, by combining her acting skills with storytelling to connect in meaningful ways. She dives into the realities of influencer life and the meticulous planning behind her creative process. Jillian offers valuable strategies for anyone navigating the social media space from tips on creating engaging videos to insights on growing an authentic audience. They also explore the essentials of skincare, break down must-have products, share simple routines, and how to approach treatments with choice, trust and confidence. Whether you're an aspiring content creator, a skincare enthusiast, or simply curious about how to redefine your relationship with social media and self-care, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

About Jilliian: Jillian Gottlieb is a tv/film actress splitting her time between New York City and Los Angeles. Most recently Jillian portrayed the role of Dr. Astrid Olsen in the hit CBS series ‘Elsbeth.’ She has a recurring role on Season Two of the Amazon Prime show ‘Harlem,’ and can be seen in the Fox feature film ‘Daughter of the Bride starring Marcia Gay Harden, as well as in the Universal Pictures feature film ‘Bros.’ For her performance in the critically acclaimed musical The Golden Bride, The New York Times said "Ms. Gottlieb is a revelation: effervescently daffy like a young Georgia Engel but also sassy and deadpan. The show is not the only discovery here." Jillian is also a popular skincare and comedy content creator with over 600,000 followers on social media.

Jillian’s IG: @jillian.gottlieb Jillian's Tiktok: @jillian.gottlieb

Jillian’s Discount Codes: https://shopmy.us/jilliangottlieb

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com

How can honoring your core values help you make decisions that align with your purpose and bring fulfillment? In this episode, Jennifer talks with actor and filmmaker, Gina Su, who shares her journey while offering practical strategies for measuring personal progress, how to define one’s core values, and aligning decisions with purpose for what truly matters. They discuss the power of finding “flow,” ways to deepen empathy and prioritize joy by carving out intentional time for oneself, and learning how celebrating wins can help us grow meaningfully. Whether you’re striving to grow as an artist, professional, or human, this episode offers a fresh perspective on optimism, reminds us that healing others can heal ourselves - and vice versa, and that joy is found in the journey, not just the destination.

About Gina: Gina Su is a film actress, producer, and founder of Pretty Magic Productions, which strives to make films with impact while prioritizing the hiring and storytelling from a female POC perspective. She is known for "Autopilot", the sci-fi film in which she starred and co-produced. It screened at the prestigious Fantasia Film Festival alongside a film produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. Currently, "Autopilot" is being turned into the feature film "Trüebadour," the latest news covered by Deadline. Besides her many kick-ass action roles in films like "Fetish," "Transpo," and "Santa Con," Gina's voice is heard on many Netflix Top 10 shows like "Hometown Cha Cha Cha" and "The Glory." Gina has been featured on ABC 7 News, various Apple and Spotify podcasts, and Comic Con. Outside of filmmaking, Gina enjoys traveling to tropical places, exploring plant-based cuisine, and making ceramics.

Gina’s IG: @missginasu

Gina’s Website: www.ginasu.com

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com

What does it take to become a choreographer on Broadway? Jennifer talks to Director-Choreographer, Katie Spelman, who shares the complex and often nonlinear trajectory of the choreography world that led to her Broadway choreographic debut for The Notebook (which unfortunately closes December 15th). Katie breaks down the distinct roles and positions in the choreography world – from dance captain to assistant to associate – offering clarity on how each supports a production. Katie divulges some of her favorite tools, expresses how creating imperfect work regularly can unlock creativity, and highlights the collaboration and trust required to build and sustain productions. Together, they also discuss the systemic challenges in the industry, including gender disparities in creative leadership, the need for diverse representation on and off stage, and Katie’s personal commitment to uplifting others in the industry. Listeners will gain tangible insights into the importance of finding collaborators, embracing imperfection, and choreographing for the bodies and performers you have in a room. Whether you’re a dancer, choreographer, or simply curious about the artistry of storytelling through movement, this episode offers a rich exploration of creativity, resilience, and the power of community.

About Katie: Katie Spelman (she/her) is a Chicago-born, Brooklyn-based director and choreographer. She made her Broadway choreographic debut this past season with The Notebook. Recent credits include Great Comet (Writers Theatre), The Music Man (Marriott Theatre, 8 Jeff Nominations), Cabaret (Barrington Stage Company, Berkie Award for Best Choreography); the world premiere of An American Tail (CTC); Hello Kitty Must Die (Edinburgh Fringe), Day 365 - Live from the Rainbow Room with Dylan Mulvaney, Once (Writers Theatre), Swearing in English (Ars Nova), aren’t you glad you stayed in (TEAM Petri Project), AD 16 (Olney Theater, Helen Hayes Award for Best Choreography), The Beautiful Game (Tokyo, TOHO Productions), The Who’s Tommy (DCPA), and Oklahoma! (Goodspeed). She was the Associate Choreographer on Moulin Rouge for the Boston, Broadway, and Australian companies, as well as an associate on the Broadway productions of Amelie, American Psycho, and Once; she was the Associate Choreographer on RENT Live! on Fox, and the Associate Director for Close To You on the West End. Katie has also collaborated with Lookingglass, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Camerata Bern, Court Theatre, The Hypocrites, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Timeline Theatre, and Northwestern University. Katie was the Associate Choreographer on Moulin Rouge for the Boston, Broadway, and Australian companies; an associate on the Broadway productions of Amelie, American Psycho, and Once; and was the recipient of the SDCF Agnes DeMille.

Katie’s IG: @k8spelman

Katie’s Website: www.katiespelman.com

Download the FREE Monologue Selection Toolkit: www.jenniferapple.net/freebie

Want to coach with Jennifer? Schedule a session here! https://appt.link/jenniferapple

Learn more about Jennifer Apple: www.jenniferapple.net Jennifer Apple’s IG: @JenniferApple_

Monologue Sourcing Promo Link! https://empoweredartistcollective.com/podcastpromo

Learn more: https://www.empoweredartistcollective.com/podcast

EAC IG: @EmpoweredArtistCollective

EAC TikTok: @EmpowerArtistCollective

EAC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredartistcollective/

Sign up for our newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/8e72e8dcb662/stay-in-touch

Check Out Our Merch! https://www.empoweredartistcollective.threadless.com/

Any thoughts you'd like to share? Email us at EmpoweredArtistCollective@gmail.com