In this conversation, Kelsey Lacombe shares her journey from being a musical theater performer to physiotherapist and now blending the two! She discusses her experiences at Stratford, the challenges and joys of balancing her dual careers, and the personal sacrifices involved in the performing arts. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of not limiting oneself, pursuing passions, and the value of reaching out to others for guidance and support. Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and the fulfillment of long-held dreams.

Takeaways

• Don't limit yourself; pursue what you want.
• Challenge conventional wisdom about career paths.
• Embrace opportunities that come your way.
• Resilience is key to overcoming challenges.
• Motivation comes from within; find your drive.

Bio

Kelsey Lacombe is a Physiotherapist and professional musical theatre performer with a passion for helping people recover from injury, build strength, and return to the activities they love with confidence.

She holds a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance from Sheridan College. Her clinical experience includes seeing a range of musculoskeletal injuries, concussion management, paediatrics, and acute care, with a special interest in working with dancers and performing artists. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique. 

Kelsey has trained in all styles of dance and brings over a decade of performance experience across Canada, including credits with The Stratford Festival, The Charlottetown Festival, Rainbow Stage, Theatre Calgary, The Citadel, Drayton Entertainment, and more. Her deep understanding of the physical demands placed on dancers allows her to provide care that is both evidence-based and specifically tailored to the needs of performing artists. Kelsey stays current with the latest research to deliver client-centred treatment that helps artists remain stage ready throughout their careers. 

Kelsey is currently practicing and accepting new patients at Meadowlands Physiotherapy in Ancaster.

Instagram handle: @dancephysio.kelsey. 

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In this engaging conversation, Janet McMordie and Kelly Michael Stewart discuss Kelly's journey into the film industry, and the intricacies of programming a film festival. They discuss the unique appeal of horror films, the importance of community in film festivals, and provide valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. Kelly shares insights on balancing multiple roles in the film industry, creating memorable festival experiences, and the impact of the Blood in the Snow festival. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of the festival and final thoughts for filmmakers.

Takeaways

• Programming a film festival requires collaboration and diverse perspectives.
• Horror films can serve as a reflection of societal issues.
• Filmmakers should attend festivals to network and learn from others.
• Balancing multiple roles in the film industry is challenging but rewarding.
• Creating memorable experiences for filmmakers is a priority for festival directors.
• Community support is vital for indie filmmakers and festivals.
• Openness to new opportunities can lead to unexpected career paths.

info@bloodinthesnow.ca | 416-995-5275

https://linktr.ee/BITSFILMFEST

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In this conversation, host Janet McMordie chats with Sophie Engelhardt shares her journey from being a medical doctor to pursuing a career in acting, discussing the challenges and joys of transitioning between these two worlds. She emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and staying true to oneself, even when it means making unconventional choices.

Takeaways

• Do the things that make absolutely no sense.
• There's only one who can be responsible for my life and that's you
• Call your parents, call your loved ones, do the things that make you feel proud of yourself and make yourself happy.
• Stay open, don't judge yourself for changing your mind.
• It's okay to feel multiple emotions at once.
• Choosing yourself is not selfish, it's necessary.

Instagram TikTok Youtube:

@doc.sophiengelhardt

Website 

www.theplantbasedpathologist.com

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Adam Lupis shares his journey from being a barber to pursuing a career in acting. He discusses the challenges he faced, the transition during COVID, and his passion for storytelling. Adam emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and offers advice for aspiring actors.

Takeaways:

-Everything great comes with sacrifices.

-Acting is about exploring human behavior.

-If you have the drive, don't let go of it.

-Be yourself to bring out your best.

-Create your own work to propel forward.

https://www.youtube.com/c/adamlupis

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In this engaging conversation, Ashwyn Singh shares his journey from a computer scientist to a stand-up comedian, discussing the cultural shocks he faced after moving to Canada, the challenges of the comedy industry, and the importance of artistic freedom. He reflects on his experiences with open mics, the impact of his background in computer science on his comedy, and offers valuable advice for aspiring comedians. The discussion also touches on memorable moments in his career and his upcoming projects, emphasizing the pursuit of authenticity in art.

Takeaways

• Comedy allows for a unique form of freedom of expression.
• Artistic freedom is a pursuit that requires self-awareness and courage.
• Memorable moments in comedy often come from breaking societal norms.

Website: https://www.ashwyn.me/

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In this engaging conversation, Melissa Millett shares her journey into the world of animal training, highlighting the passion that drives her work. She discusses the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of the film industry, the role of animal coordinators, and the preparation required for animals on set. Melissa offers valuable advice for actors working with animals, emphasizing the need to understand animal behavior and the unique challenges presented by different species. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI in film, memorable moments from her career, and her excitement for future projects, all while advocating for the respectful treatment of animals in the industry.

Takeaways

• The passion for animal training is key to success in the industry.
• Navigating the film industry can be confusing without proper mentorship.
• Mentorship is crucial for understanding the complexities of working on set.
• Animal coordinators play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of animals on set.
• Preparation and training are essential for animals to perform well in film.
• Actors should follow the guidance of animal trainers to ensure safety and effectiveness.
• Interacting with animals on set requires understanding their behavior and needs.

https://www.ultimutts.ca/ 

https://indogswetrust.ca/ 

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In this engaging conversation, Janet McMordie and Cindy-Ann Boisson explore Cindy-Ann's journey into stand-up comedy and the importance of storytelling and humor in bridging personal pain. Cindy-Ann shares her experiences from her first performance to building a career in comedy, emphasizing the significance of self-love and passion over monetary gain. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of being a comedian, along with valuable advice for aspiring artists.

Takeaways

• Stand-up comedy allows for a unique connection between pain and humor.
• The importance of self-love in pursuing creative endeavors.
• Navigating the comedy scene requires resilience and adaptability.
• Storytelling in stand-up is different from traditional storytelling.
• Finding humor in painful experiences can be therapeutic.

Cindy-Ann's website

Get tickets for Cindy-Ann's show on Oct 1st at Comedy Bar Danforth

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In this conversation, Anthony Chin-Quee: Writer & Doctor shares his transformative journey from a medical career to becoming a television writer. He discusses the emotional challenges faced during medical training, the importance of storytelling, and how he found his passion in writing. Tony reflects on his experiences in the Grey's Anatomy writing room, the cultural shifts in medicine, and the significance of humor in coping with the stresses of the medical profession. He offers advice for those looking to transition into creative fields and emphasizes the importance of loving what you do.

Takeaways

• Storytelling can be a powerful tool for processing experiences in medicine.
• Finding emotional resilience is key to thriving in creative fields.
• It's important to make time for creative pursuits in daily life.
• Loving what you do is essential for personal fulfillment.

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In this engaging conversation, Madison Caan shares her journey from a young performer to athlete to actor and producer. She discusses her experiences in LA and New York, the importance of community in Toronto, and her unique approach to acting. Madison emphasizes the value of hard work, genuine connections, and the need for artists to explore various creative avenues beyond acting. Her insights provide valuable advice for aspiring actors and highlight the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Success is defined by the ability to make choices, not having them made for you.
• Athletes possess qualities like discipline, work ethic, and resilience that are valuable in any career.
• The acting industry now requires versatility; being just an actor is no longer sustainable.
• Genuine connections in the industry are crucial; reach out with authenticity and purpose.
• Embrace vulnerability in art; it's a delicate process that connects deeply with audiences.
• Learn the rules of the industry to creatively break them and find your unique voice.
• Physicality and authenticity in performance can enhance the portrayal of characters.
• Building a supportive community is essential for creative growth and success.

https://www.screaminggoatfilms.com/

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HAPPY TIFF SEASON TO EVERYONE WHO CELEBRATES!!

In this conversation, Peter Kuplowsky shares his journey from a passionate film enthusiast to a prominent curator and independent film producer. He discusses the evolution of his curatorial voice, the unique experience of Midnight Madness at TIFF, and the importance of networking in the film industry. Peter also offers valuable advice for aspiring curators and filmmakers, emphasizing the need to stay curious and seize opportunities.

Takeaways

• Networking is crucial in the film industry; many opportunities arise from connections.
• Curators should seek out interesting decisions in films to engage audiences.
• Aspiring curators can start small, even in their living rooms.
• Saying yes to opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences.

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In this conversation, Chloe Szczyglowski shares her journey into the world of makeup artistry, detailing her early exposure to the film industry through her father. She discusses her education, the various niches within makeup artistry, and the importance of networking in building a successful career. Chloe emphasizes the significance of makeup in enhancing performances and also offers valuable advice for aspiring makeup artists and actors in her chair.

Takeaways

• Networking is crucial for success in the makeup industry.
• Makeup can significantly enhance a performer's confidence.
• There are many niches within makeup artistry, each requiring different skills.
• It's important for performers to communicate their makeup preferences.
• Kindness and professionalism are essential in the industry.

Find Chloe on Instagram @beautybychloeszcz

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In this episode, host Dr. Janet McMordie chats with the multi-talented Tricia Black, an actor and comedian known for their dynamic performances in shows such as Pretty Hard Cases, Small Achievable Goals and the upcoming Netflix show Tall Pines. Tricia shares their unique journey from the vibrant world of East Coast dinner theater to the bustling sets of major productions. With humor and honesty, they discusses the highs and lows of pursuing a career in the arts, offering valuable lessons for aspiring creatives.

Takeaways:

-Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.

-Profound learning often occurs outside the classroom. Gain hands-on experience through real-world opportunities.

-Focus on storytelling that resonates with audiences. Authenticity and passion can shine through any budget constraints.

-Build relationships within the industry. Support fellow artists and work together to create impactful projects.

https://www.itstriciablack.com/

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Join host Dr. Janet McMordie as she chats with her medical school friend and colleague, Dr. Kate Gerster, an OB-GYN and musical theater actor. Discover how Kate balances her medical career with her passion for the arts, the importance of community theater, and the joy of pursuing creative outlets.

They chat about the importance of maintaining creativity alongside a demanding career and Kate provides insights into the vibrant theater scene in Peterborough! She ends with encouragement for anyone considering a leap into the arts

Tune in next week for another inspiring episode of Second Act Actors!

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In this conversation, the legendary Robert McLachlan shares his journey from a young boy fascinated by photography and film to becoming a successful cinematographer. He discusses the evolution of visual storytelling, the intricacies of cinematography, and the creative process behind filmmaking. Robert offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers and reflects on memorable moments from his career, including his work on Game of Thrones. He emphasizes the importance of passion, hard work, and the willingness to learn in the entertainment industry.

Takeaways

• Cinematographers play a crucial role in visual storytelling.
• Preparation and collaboration are key in filmmaking.
• Aspiring filmmakers need persistence and dedication.

https://www.mclachlan.camera/

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In this conversation, Chloe Van Landschoot shares her unique journey from healthcare to acting, exploring the emotional toll of working in the emergency department and how she found artistry in her experiences. She discusses the intersection of nursing and acting, the challenges of burnout in healthcare, and the importance of creativity as a coping mechanism. Chloe emphasizes the need for authenticity in storytelling and the healing power of art, encouraging healthcare workers to reconnect with their creative sides.

Takeaways

• Nursing and acting can coexist and enhance each other.
• Creativity is essential for healthcare workers to cope with stress.
• Art can serve as a therapeutic outlet for healthcare professionals.
• Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for both actors and healthcare workers.
• Reconnecting with childhood joys can reignite creativity.

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Shaun Benson explore the intricate relationship between listening, acting, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges of balancing multiple careers, the importance of time, and the value of embracing one's identity. Through their experiences, they highlight the significance of consistency, creating opportunities, and finding joy in the audition process. The dialogue reflects on aging and the journey of self-acceptance, offering insights into navigating the complexities of life and career.

Takeaways

• Listening is crucial in both acting and personal interactions.
• Finding balance between different careers can be challenging but rewarding.
• The journey to becoming an actor often involves unexpected paths.
• Societal expectations can influence career choices, but personal fulfillment is key.
• Time is a finite resource; urgency can drive action.
• Loving the audition process can lead to greater satisfaction in acting.

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Join Dr. Janet McMordie as she chats with her medical school colleague Dr. Laura Lawson, a former actor turned doctor. Discover how Laura's theater background enriched her medical career and the surprising parallels between acting and medicine.

#SecondActActors #TheaterToMedicine #InspiringJourneys

Tune in next week for more inspiring stories on Second Act Actors!

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In this episode of Second Act Actors, I had the pleasure of speaking with Todd Stark, a talented voiceover actor who transitioned from a successful corporate career to the world of acting during the pandemic. Todd shared his fascinating journey from working in global supply chain, marketing, IT, and strategy across various industries to rediscovering his passion for acting, a love he had since high school.

Todd discussed the pivotal moment during the pandemic when he decided to leave his corporate job and pursue acting full-time. He took a strategic approach, using his business acumen to analyze his own career aspirations and ultimately decided to follow his passion for acting. Todd's story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the courage to make significant life changes.

We delved into the challenges and rewards of voice acting, highlighting the importance of imagination and the ability to bring scripts to life without the physical presence of other actors. Todd emphasized the need for continuous learning and adapting, sharing his experiences from various acting workshops and the importance of reacting authentically in scenes.

Additionally, Todd spoke about his involvement with "Voiceover for the Planet," a group dedicated to providing voiceover services for companies with a mission-based focus. He highlighted the importance of community and the group's efforts to support environmental and social causes.

In closing, Todd offered valuable advice for aspiring actors, emphasizing the importance of studying acting, being persistent, and knowing oneself. His journey and insights provide inspiration for anyone considering a second act in their career.

Thank you, Todd, for sharing your incredible story and voiceover tips. It was a fantastic conversation, and I hope my listeners enjoyed it as much as I did. Tune in next week for another episode of Second Act Actors!

https://voiceoverfortheplanet.com/

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Jordan Morris explore the fascinating world of storytelling and the entertainment industry. They discuss the intricacies of pagecraft and the importance of business acumen in the creative field. Jordan shares his unique journey from toy store owner to screenwriter and producer, emphasizing the value of mentorship and the need for aspiring creatives to prove their skills. The conversation also highlights memorable moments from Jordan's career, including the making of the Mr. Dress Up documentary and the importance of preserving Canadian television history.

Takeaways

• The behind-the-scenes process of filmmaking can demystify the genre.
• Audience reactions provide valuable insights into storytelling effectiveness.
• Business acumen is crucial for success in the entertainment industry.
• Aspiring creatives should actively seek opportunities to showcase their work.
• Mentorship accelerates learning and skill development in creative fields.
• Failure is a necessary part of the creative process.
• Building an audience can open doors to industry opportunities.
• Preserving cultural heritage in media is vital for future generations.

https://www.jordanmorriswriterigniter.com/

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In this conversation, Harrison Browne shares his unique journey from hockey player to pursuing a career in acting. He discusses the challenges of changing careers, the importance of visibility for the trans community, and the lessons learned from sports that have influenced his approach to acting and storytelling. Harrison emphasizes the need for authentic representation in media and offers advice for aspiring actors, encouraging them to embrace their curiosity and take small steps towards their goals.

Takeaways

• The importance of visibility for trans individuals in media.
• It's okay to turn down roles that did not contribute to authentic representation.
• Storytelling can create empathy and understanding for marginalized communities.
• Explore your curiosity and take small steps towards their goals.
• Everyone has a story to tell, regardless of their background.

BUY HARRISON'S BOOK HERE!

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