Episodes

On this episode of Story and Craft, we sit down with actor Ken Leung. Known for his roles in “Rush Hour”, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, “The Sopranos”, and notably “Lost”, Ken shares his experiences across stage, TV, and film, as well as his role in the new season of HBO’s “Industry”. We dive deep into Ken's diverse career, discussing his induction into the acting world, his memorable roles, and the nuances of playing distinct characters in different genres. They also chat about the impact of ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Thomas Jane from the Amazon Prime Video film “Play DIrty”, as well as projects such as The Expanse and Boogie Nights. We cover Jane's impressive body of work, as well as his journey from modest beginnings in Maryland to becoming a notable actor in Hollywood. We discuss Thomas’ passion for storytelling, the joys and challenges of being an actor, and the importance of authentic human experiences in film. Thomas also reveals his g...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with producer,Danny O’Malley. Danny is a Grammy and James Beard award nominee. He just picked up an Emmy nomination for theNetflix series “Chef's Table”. Danny takes us on a culinary journey through his experiences. They also talk about everything from the impact of Anthony Bourdain, Chicago-style pizza preferences, memorable dining experiences, to the global influence of food and its power to bridge cultures. Danny also shares insights i...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, writer, producer and director,Larry Charles , who has a new memoir out called “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter”. He’s known for a constellation of projects, such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Mad About You, Borat, The Dictator and The Comedians. We dive into Larry's journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood, discussing his work on iconic shows, as well as collaborations with the likes of Jerr...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine from theApple TV Series “Smoke”, as well as upcoming projects such as “Dexter: Resurrection” and “Washington Black.” We discuss Ntare's extensive career, including his roles in popular TV shows like “The Chi” and “Treme.” Ntare also opens up about his Ugandan heritage, and his own journey into acting. We also chat about his and his long-term documentary project “Memories of Love Returned.” It’s a great ch...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Mariana Treviño from the Apple TV+ series “Stick”, as well as projects such as "A Man Called Otto" and host of film and TV work in Mexico. We discuss her life and career, as well as her thoughts about working with co-stars Owen Wilson and Marc Maron. We also touch on Mariana’s Mexican roots, her journey into acting, and her fond memories of family trips to South Padre Island, Texas. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 01:30 Mariana's Background...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Brandon Lessard from thenew film “The Unholy Trinity.” Brandon shares his experiences working alongside Pierce Brosnan, Samuel L. Jackson, and David Arquette in this Western set in Montana. We dive into Brandon's journey from Fairfax, Virginia to Los Angeles, as well as his passion for acting. Brandon also touches on his love for historical dramas, his writing endeavors, and the physical challenges faced during the film's produ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Annalise Basso from the film “The Life of Chuck”, as well as projects such as “Captain Fantastic” and “Snowpiercer.” We chat about Annalise’s acting career, from childhood to now, as well as what it was like growing up with a brother and sister who are also in the industry. We also touch on Annalise’s other passions, such as ballet and surfing…and how those things keep her grounded and inspired. It’s a great conversation that c...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Felix Solis from the Netflix series “Sirens”, as well as projects such as The Rookie and Ozark. We discuss Felix's upbringing in New York City, his early career in theater, and his transition to television. Felix shares personal stories, including his unique connection to the Beastie Boys and a memorable encounter with Anthony Bourdain. We also get a glimpse into Felix's take on his Puerto Rican heritage, as well as his love f...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Reed Diamond from the film “Drop.” Reed has had a long career working in a constellation of projects, such as “Memphis Belle,” “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Orphan Black: Echoes” and “Moneyball.” We cover Reed's career highlights, his foundational experiences at Juilliard, and his passion for music. Reed shares insight into his recent projects, including his new film and the joys of working with his family. SHOW HIGHLIGHT...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor and musician, Alex Wolff from the new film “Magic Farm”, as well as projects such as "A Quiet Place: Day One," "Oppenheimer," "A Good Person," "Hereditary" and the "Jumanji" films. We discuss his new film, his role in the horror movie “Hereditary,” and his experiences working with notable directors like M. Night Shyamalan and Christopher Nolan. Alex shares insights about his childhood, his musical journey with his brother, Nat ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author,Jim Murphy who wrote thebook “Inner Excellence.” We discuss Jim's journey, including his time as a professional baseball player, his mother's samurai heritage, and his transition to coaching. We explore his unique experiences, such as living in solitude in the desert to write, “Inner Excellence,” which gained significant attention when Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown was seen reading it on the sidelines during a playoff game. ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Asher Grodman from the CBS series “Ghosts.” Asher shares his journey from a shy kid growing up on a farm in New Jersey, to what he learned about performance at his Bar Mitzvah. We discuss his early career experiences, his love for football, and the making of a unique mockumentary for the Jacksonville Jaguars. We also touch on life as a working actor on a successful network television show, and what it’s like to portray a chara...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor and comedian, Tone Bell from the Netflix series “Survival of The Thickest”, as well as projects such as the film Trigger Warning with Jessica Alba and the Kathy Bates comedy series, Disjointed. Tone shares insights about his journey from growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, to becoming a successful stand-up comedian and actor. We talk about the challenges and joys of touring, his early influences, and his deep love for stand-up, as ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Virginia Gardner from the#1 Network film “F Marry Kill”, as well as projects such as Halloween, Runaways and Beautiful Disaster & Beautiful Wedding with Dylan Sprouse. Virginia shares her journey from Sacramento to Los Angeles at age 16, as she discusses her start in modeling to her success as an actor. She discusses her early career experiences, including her first major film “Project Almanac.” We also touch on her childhood i...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with director,Laura Murphy from thefilm “F Marry Kill, which features Lucy Hale and Virginia Gardner. We delve into Laura’s career journey from writing and directing at MTV to her work with high-profile talent like Awkwafina, Eliza Schlesinger, and John Oliver. The episode covers Murphy's experiences in the film industry, her filmmaking approach, and her love for comedy. We also touch on her personal life, including balancing motherhood w...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with director,Ash Avildsen who directed the new film “Queen of The Ring!” We discuss the film’s thematic roots in pro wrestling history, particularly the story of Mildred Burke, an influential female wrestler from the 1930s to the 1950s. Ash shares his filmmaking process, including the challenges of casting and the collaborative nature of movie production. The discussion covers aspects of music in film and the evolution of the music indus...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Ione Skye, who has a new memoir out called “Say Everything.” Ione is an 80’s movie icon, who appeared in numerous films, including the 80’s classic “Say Anything.” We discuss her new book, her journey in the film industry, and what it was like growing up in Hollywood. We cover her experiences with famous friends and family, such as her father, musician Donovan, as well as her relationships with accomplished musicians. This is a...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, writer, producer & director,Delaney Buffet & Katie Corwin from thefilm “Adult Best Friends!” We delve into Delaney and Katie’s long-term friendship, creative partnership, and the challenges of shooting a film on a low budget. Additionally, we touch on Delaney's experience growing up as the daughter of the late Jimmy Buffett, the influence of comedy in their work, and their love for creating meaningful stories. SHOW HIGHLIGH...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Hall of Fame sportscaster and author,Jim Lampley. He has a new memoir coming out called “It Happened!: A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television!” We cover Jim’s extensive career in sports broadcasting, including his early challenges in college, his unexpected path into sports journalism, and notable experiences covering events like the Olympics and major boxing matches. Lampley shares personal stories, such as growing up with his d...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Steven Krueger from theShowtime and Paramount+ series “Yellowjackets!” Steven delves into his journey from aspiring lawyer to accomplished actor, highlighting the moment he realized that his true passion was acting rather than law. He discusses his career trajectory, which includes notable roles in “Pretty Little Liars” and “The Originals.” Currently, he stars in the acclaimed series “Yellowjackets,” set both in the 1990s and t...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, writer and producer,Katie O'Brien from theTubi series “The Z-Suite!” We explore Katie's career journey from Omaha to L.A., through the world of improv and her successful stint with the comedy group “The Katie Dids.” Katie shares her experiences working on “Teachers”, advice and anecdotes about navigating Hollywood, and her approach to storytelling that bridges generational gaps. Additionally, we dive into comedic inspirations ...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with chef, restauranteur and author,Ben Ford from “Ford's Filling Station in Los Angeles!” We discuss Ben's illustrious culinary career, his upbringing as the son of actor Harrison Ford, and the origins and influences of his deep-rooted passion for cooking. We touch on the evolving landscape of the culinary industry, as well as the significance of creativity and craftsmanship. Ben also shares personal anecdotes and insights about his phil...

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Jordan Bridges from the Lionsgate film “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera and the Apple TV+ series, Palm Royale!” We chat about his career, family legacy, and his personal passions. Jordan discusses what it was like to grow up in a family of iconic actors, including his father, Beau Bridges, his uncle, Jeff Bridges, and grandfather, Lloyd Bridges. We cover a lot of ground…discussing Jordan’s passion for martial arts, to his passion for...