Understanding the impact simple acts of kindness can have when collaborating is one of many reasons why it’s a joy to have actor, dancer, singer, and producer Julian Armaya on this week’s episode! As a powerful, genuine, and creative force, Julian takes us behind the highs and lows of his trajectory in front of international audiences, which includes battling cancer twice. While some setbacks have been tremendous, his passion for storytelling and brilliance as an artist have galvanized the perseverance that broadens the scope of his impact on every performance and project.  Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Wisdom flows with every word and experience as Kanithea Powell shares details about her trajectory as an award winning screenwriter, filmmaker, author, and founder/CEO of QFN TV. Tune into this episode to deepen your belief and clarity in what you’re meant to do with your passion and creativity. You don’t want to miss this boost of confidence about trusting the pace of your process in spite of any challenges or lack of a blueprint along the way! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

There's something special about building a career around doing what we love and sharing gifts that come naturally to us, which is why you'll love this week's episode with gender fluid fashion creator Bad Burro by José Huizar. Tune in for tips to overcome challenges when finding your voice and expressing it at the loudest volume possible. It's amazing how taking charge in channeling productivity will make a positive impact across communities! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Keep your creative momentum going in full force by taking in wisdom from the talented and award-winning writer/director/actor Nardeep Khurmi (Chicago Fire, Land of Gold, Mira, Royal Detective, Henry Danger). This week's episode delivers helpful insights that dispel any suspicions actors may have of feeling like merely a cog in the machine of filmmaking. From the passion in his voice to the encouragement of making anything that keeps your brain ticking, this episode is the refresh button you need as we approach the end of the year! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Tune into what you're here to be a vessel for by listening to the fantastic advice and experience of award-winning genre-bending, binary-breaking director and filmmaker Melanie D'Andrea (NBCUniversal Launch, Telemundo Fellow, Ryan Murphy Half Initiative Mentee, Disruptors Fellowship). If you're struggling to move beyond the expectation of being a people pleaser, gain some good traction with Melanie's wisdom to bring the best out of everyone including yourself. There are brilliant gems of wisdom you'll take away if you're looking to make a positive impact on communities through storytelling. Don't forget to send us a DM, leave a rating, or dazzle us with your review! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Since the first day of meeting the genre-bending writer and director Sofia Garza-Barba, she's effortlessly shared light and love through powerful stories, meaningful conversations, and significant collaborations. If you're struggling taking a leap of faith, making a mistake, or deciding what feels right in your work, this episode is for you. And if you're eager to make a transition from commercial work to narrative content, do not let another day pass without tuning into this episode. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Take a break from doom scrolling to hear some of the most practical advice on how to get your films into festivals with advice from actress, producer, director Maria Soccor. Her story takes us through a poetic turn of events that highlight the importance of simultaneously going with the flow and being proactive in pursuit of one's purpose. From victories of having work travel to Cannes and Venice to updates on her most recent documentary, you don't want to miss key takeaways from Maria's poetic perspective and cinematic journey. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Gladys McGarey began her career as a doctor before women could even own their own bank accounts. We take a break from entertainment in this week's episode to ask the Award-Winning Author of "The Well Lived Life", what's the secret for living a long happy life? Dr. McGarey shares her own extraordinary stories about beginning her career as a young doctor when she wasn't taken seriously, even having to sleep on an X-ray table, how she revolutionized our views on giving birth, and even having a chance encounter with Mahatma Gandhi. Dr. Gladys is an inspiration to women everywhere, and this is one you surely don't want to miss! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Whether singing live, reading to the masses, or hosting a range of gigs in her drag excellence, Pickle (Weakest Link, Dodgeball Thunderdome, Tyler Perry's Sistas) lays out key points in how to build your brand with authenticity. Our guest and drag extraordinaire has partnered with the Academy Museum, City of West Hollywood, Independent Shakespeare Company, LA County Library, LA Public Library, LACMA, Outfest, Tinder, and the list goes on! Don't miss great advice with insightful lessons on expanding a brand through community engagement! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Angela Cohen (Without Grace, Unimaginable, There Can Be Light, Clara's Ghost) takes us on deep dive into what it means to be a multi-hyphenate. From acting, writing, directing, leading a production company as CEO, Angela explains how she refills her creative well, which she prioritizes while constantly on the move and might question why one project or facet of her career isn't panning out as expected. From working with Al Pacino, Paul Haggis, and Barry Levinson to sparking social change through storytelling, you'll love every detail of her journey toward showcasing unique and diverse stories that put a spotlight on female voices and mental health. After listening to this episode, you'll understand why Without Grace qualified for the 90th Academy Awards, which you can also check out on Amazon! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Are your wheels spinning when submitting yourself for different opportunities? Have you ever asked yourself how do you become a regular booker? In this episode, actress, producer, and music artist Vivian Lamolli (Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies, The Rich and the Ruthless, All the Queen's Men, East Los High, The Answer to My Prayer) sheds light on the power of knowing your worth and leading with an open heart. Vivian's insights on keeping an open mind to constantly build and be aware of our surroundings will have you ready, so you don't have to get ready, for your next chance to dazzle and shine. Don't miss her in Queen of the Rumba by Josefina Lopez at Casa 0101 this fall! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

This week we're asking the multidimensional actress Lupe Cambiasso (Zelle, T-Mobile, and something so exciting she can't talk about it yet!), how do you get the callback? If you've ever questioned turning points in your professional or creative journey, don't miss Lupe's practical advice on setting goals and working hard to reach milestones to see those goals come to fruition. Lupe illustrates the top 3 things to focus on to get the callback, and how to invest in your character to increase your chances of booking the role. You'll spot her in a multitude of commercials and the upcoming season of *something so exciting she can't talk about it yet* where you'll see Lupe shine and hear why we love and admire her so much! While the shift in autumnal energy may have an effect on your productivity, you're in for a gift of an experience when you listen to actress Lupe Cambiasso's critical steps on how to keep the momentum going in everything you're working toward. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

This week we're asking the multi-hyphenate storyteller Elaine Del Valle (Brownsville Bred, Midnight Hustle), how do you become a director? With a start as an actor, then shifting into casting, and later realizing her great passion for directing, you'll take away a great lesson in positive thinking and perseverance. After adapting her novel and stage play to a feature film, and being celebrated by SXSW, HBO, and Sundance for her work as a filmmaker, you'll want to watch her genre bending dance-drama-thriller Midnight Hustle (now streaming). Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

In this week's episode we're asking Sekai Abeni (Paper Girls, The Method), how do you book the role? After getting her start at Juilliard, Sekai walks us through how she became a successful artist by getting representation, and how the pandemic taught her to treat her artistry as a spectrum rather than obsess over acting. If imposter syndrome hits close to home as the breeze gets crisp this autumn, don't miss Sekai's practical words on owning your artistry as a whole, and how she's found fulfillment through this mindset! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Self taping can often feel like you're auditioning into a vacuum. Casting Director Alexis Winter (the offices of Laray Mayfield, Rich Delia, Courtney Bright and Nicole Daniels, Tamara Notcutt, Gail Goldberg and Sheila Jaffe) breaks down for us myths about self taping, how to book the audition, and how she first got into casting working on the iconic One Tree Hill. Alexis explains why the strike is so important, noting that 87% of SAGAFTRA members do not qualify for health insurance, where the minimum pay requirement to meet it is 26,000. She discusses how actors can stay warm during the strike, and how it effects the industry beyond actors and writers. Listen in for an incredibly informative episode! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Acting coach, casting director, and industry force Sam Stiglitz joins the damsels this week for practical advice behind the scenes of glittering industry lights. Sam goes through common mistakes she sees actors making and tells us why she decided to becoming an acting coach after her experience in casting. She’s gone through her share of learning from mistakes and failures, and this is the momentum we can equip ourselves with while embarking on what can be a challenging journey. You’re in for a treat with this week’s myth debunking and helpful tips that make the investment we make in ourselves so worthwhile! Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Irina Meyer is a multi-hyphenate powerhouse whose mind is like an encyclopedia with her history in academia, innovating in the tech world, and passion for filmmaking. When we met her in Cannes, there was such a buzz around Irina’s team and film. As you listen to this episode, you’ll see why! Tune in and learn from her inspiring mission to challenge the status quo of content we consume in the media. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Making a positive impact through entertainment, fitness, coaching, and motivational speaking comes as naturally for Nikki SooHoo (Stick It, Phil of the Future, Bring It On) as the sun shines brightly. There's so much to learn from Nikki's experience in finding her own vibe and reveling in beautiful opportunities that facilitate growth meant for the paths we create for ourselves. If you're questioning whether you deserve situations or projects that fall into your lap, check out this episode for the best ways to identify the value you bring to the table. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

Making a positive impact through entertainment, fitness, coaching, and motivational speaking comes as naturally for Nikki SooHoo as the sun shines brightly. There's so much to learn from Nikki's experience in finding her own vibe and reveling in beautiful opportunities that facilitate growth meant for the paths we create for ourselves. If you're questioning whether you deserve situations or projects that fall into your lap, check out this episode for the best ways to identify the value you bring to the table. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html

It's a special week, because the iconic Kylie Brakeman joined us on this week's episode! Although she's known for being a writer on The Tonight Show, it's her iconic videos that went viral during the pandemic that really put her on the map. In this episode, we talk about how success looks differently for different people, and how routines are not always effective for each creative in the business. We learn what Kylie's been up to with the strike, how she's riding the waves of the business of the internet and this crazy industry, and even a bit about what Queen Victoria may have been up to? You'll just have to listen to understand. Want to be featured on the pod? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGSAuXcPkCkdx3qoWiG1trcQYzksClzVes4u7YXcR2td9ALg/viewform Want to send a voice message? https://www.speakpipe.com/DamselsintheDMs Want to pitch a guest or topic? https://www.damselsinthedms.com/contact.html