You know him from Star Search, NBC’s The Sing-Off, and his unforgettable run as Tom Collins in Rent on Broadway. But today, we go deeper with Troy Horne.

Troy shares how his creative journey has always been fueled by purpose, from chasing childhood dreams to making career choices that kept him close to his kids. We talk about the realities of showbiz, the emotional weight of auditioning, and the heart behind his new book Middle Management. It’s a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and rediscovery, especially in the second half of life.

Plus, we play a game where the entire (non-existent) studio audience wins a copy of Troy’s book… if he nails it.

Guest: Troy Horne
Book: Middle Management
Website: troyhorne.com Socials: @troyhorneofficial

00:00 – Friday Vibes & Fundraiser Recap
I share highlights from emceeing the Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center fundraiser and my dad’s visit from Wisconsin.

01:00 – Meet Troy Horne
Singer, author, Broadway star, and all-around creative force joins the show.

02:00 – Star Search Origins
Troy tells the story of auditioning with a vintage phone prop and landing his first big break.

04:00 – Behind the Scenes of Reality TV
We talk about the business side of entertainment and how viewership shapes outcomes.

06:00 – From NBC’s The Sing-Off to Rent
Troy shares how he landed the role of Tom Collins and why it was more than just a gig—it was a personal mission.

09:00 – Fatherhood & Career Choices
How Troy balanced ambition with family, and why he turned down a tour to stay close to his kids.

11:00 – Broadway Life & Eight Shows a Week
We talk about the grind, the joy, and the creative restlessness that comes with live theater.

13:00 – Life After Broadway: Denver & New Chapters
Troy reflects on relocating and what life looks like now.

14:00 – The Story Behind Middle Management
We dive into the emotional journey of rediscovery, self-doubt, and starting over in midlife.

16:00 – Game Time: Win a Copy of the Book
Troy plays for the audience—if he wins, everyone gets a copy of Middle Management.

18:00 – What We’re All Figuring Out
We talk about turning 40+, letting go of “supposed to’s,” and finding meaning in the second half of life.