LIVE from the TEETH Red Carpet Nov 15, 2024

TEETH is taking a bite out of New World Stages as the stars, cast, and creatives walk the red carpet for opening night on the spookiest night of the year, Halloween! Go trick or treating with host Salisha Thomas as she talks to Alyse Alan Louis, Andy Karl, Will Connolly, Jason Gotay, Michael R. Jackson, Anna K. Jacobs, Raja Feather Kelly, Jessica Vosk, Eden Espinosa, and more!

Check out Broadway Podcast Network on Instagram and TikTok for more red carpet content and fashion hot takes with host Salisha Thomas.

Instagram: @broadwaypodcastnetwork

TikTok: @broadwaypodcastnetwork

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From Athlete to Actress: Jasmin's Inspiring Journey Oct 31, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, I'm thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Jasmin Richardson, a Broadway powerhouse whose journey from athlete to actress is nothing short of inspiring! Ever wonder what it takes to transition from running tracks to stealing the show on stages like Broadway? Jasmin's story is full of passion, resilience, and triumph! With roles in "Dream Girls," "Memphis," and her show-stopping performance in "The Bodyguard" as Nicki Maron, she’s a queen in her own right.

We chat about her experiences on Broadway. You’ll also hear how she balances life between New York and her roots in Houston, Texas. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we dive into her world, her confidence, and her impact in the theater community! Let's celebrate her journey together!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

05:30 - Jasmin's Theatre School Journey

09:35 - Teaching Hair in Schools

17:55 - Lessons Learned from the Pandemic

23:20 - Jasmin'sPath to The Bodyguard

26:38 - Standing Out in a Room

28:45 - Discovering Jasmin's Purpose

30:21 - Building Confidence

32:13 - Behind the Scenes

35:58 - Essential Hair Care Tips

40:28 - Your Personal Hair Journey

46:08 - Beauty Standards and Hair Length

49:44 - Steps to Leadership in the Industry

53:36 - Embracing Self-Acceptance

56:17 - Importance of Representation

57:56 - Jasmin's Impact on the World

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LIVE from the SUNSET BLVD. Broadway Red Carpet Oct 25, 2024

Nicole Scherzinger is ready for her close up! Broadway Podcast Network is live on the red carpet of the Broadway opening of SUNSET BLVD with host Salisha Thomas. Listen in as Salisha chats with stars attending the show including JoJo, Matt Rogers, Skylar Astin, Jessica Vosk, and Wendell Pierce plus interviews with designers and creatives. After the show the carpet continues with the cast, including Tom Francis, Caroline Bowman, Mandy Gonzalez, Nicole Scherzinger, and more!

Check out Broadway Podcast Network on Instagram and TikTok for more red carpet content and fashion hot-takes with our host Salisha Thomas.

Instagram: @broadwaypodcastnetwork

TikTok: @broadwaypodcastnetwork

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Rebecca's Hair Tale: From Motown to Hamilton Oct 24, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? I'm thrilled to revisit this 2021 conversation with my dear friend Rebecca Covington Webber! Ever wonder what it's like to journey from Motown to Hamilton on Broadway? Rebecca shares her incredible hair tale and Broadway experiences with us. From her stunning natural waves to her secrets for maintaining that Broadway-ready look, Rebecca spills it all! We reminisce about our time together on the national tour of Beautiful and delve into her roles as a swing in Hamilton, sharing how she gracefully balances life and performance with her hubby, Donald Webber Jr.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as Rebecca shares her wig prep, her fab Lush products, and how pregnancy changed her hair game. Plus, we chat about the challenges and joys of working on Broadway. If you love Broadway, Salisha Thomas, and the magic behind the stage, this is for you! Join us for a behind-the-scenes look and some genuine laughter. Let's go!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

01:00 - Catching up with Rebecca

03:20 - Rebecca’s Natural Hair Care

05:20 - Knotless Braids Techniques

06:35 - Pregnancy Hair Changes

08:40 - Rebecca’s Hair Care Routine

14:10 - Motown Influence

17:56 - Wig Preparation Tips

19:59 - Dealing with Static Hair

22:55 - Role in Hamilton Musical

24:50 - Performing with Your Husband

33:55 - Rebecca’s Pregnancy Journey

37:25 - Outro

Follow Rebecca Webber: @rorowebb

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

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From Pre-Med to Broadway Star: Samantha Williams' Journey Oct 17, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we're diving into the incredible journey of Samantha Williams, a true Broadway sensation! Ever wonder what it’s like to shift from dreaming of being a doctor to starring on Broadway? Samantha spills the tea on her path from being a pre-med student to taking the stage in iconic roles like Alana Beck in "Dear Evan Hansen" and Emmie Thibodeaux in "Caroline, or Change."

Join me, Salisha Thomas, in this conversation from 2021 as we chat about her experiences, from handling the pressure of big roles to embracing her natural beauty and luscious curls. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the empowering journey of self-discovery and representation on stage. You won’t want to miss this personal and inspiring conversation!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

01:20 - Samantha’s Journey to Broadway

04:31 - Pressure of Big Roles at a Young Age

06:31 - Hair in Dear Evan Hansen

13:27 - Hair Journey and Transformation

16:03 - Embracing Your Skin and Identity

21:35 - Current Hair Products and Tips

26:35 - Gratitude and Mindfulness Practices

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Krystal Joy Brown's Journey: From Broadway to Activism Oct 10, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, I'm chatting with the phenomenal Krystal Joy Brown about her incredible journey from Broadway to activism! Ever wonder what it’s like to transition from starring as Eliza in Hamilton to becoming a voice for change? Krystal shares her experiences and the passion that drives her from the bright lights of Broadway to powerful movements like Black Lives Matter.

In this conversation from 2021, we dive into her iconic roles bringing life to characters. From Salisha Thomas’ perspective, this conversation explores the resilience and courage of a true star. Join us to hear about Krystal’s journey, her love for performance, and her commitment to making a difference. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate Krystal’s story, which is filled with inspiration and empowerment!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

02:00 - Motown Music Legacy

04:45 - Building Confidence

09:00 - Faking It Till You Make It

13:28 - Crystal's Beliefs and Values

18:06 - Collaborative Approach

20:14 - Overcoming Limitations

22:55 - The Black Experience in Arts

25:56 - Hair Journey and Identity

30:40 - Navigating Sobriety at Events

34:45 - Dating Without Alcohol

37:18 - Wig Preference in Performances

42:14 - Wig Preparation Techniques

44:10 - Caring for Natural Hair

49:20 - Hope for Black History Month

52:30 - Outro

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Unlocking Freedom Through Hair: Leandra's Story Oct 03, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? This week we're throwing it back to my 2021 chat with my fabulous friend, Leandra Ellis-Gaston. We talked about her incredible journey to unlocking freedom through hair! You won't believe how a bold haircut transformed her career, leading her to take Broadway by storm as the dance captain in "Tina: The Tina Turner Musical." Ever wonder what it's like to balance the magic of Broadway while embracing your own natural beauty? Leandra shares her personal stories, from her debut to her show-stopping hairstyles, and the empowering decision to do the big chop. We dive deep into how letting go can lead to self-discovery, confidence, and unexpected opportunities.

Leandria is currently on the road, playing Sugar, in the North American Tour of "Some Like It Hot."

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the intersection of performance, identity, and self-care, with a sprinkle of Broadway magic. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that might just inspire your next big change!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Leandra Ellis-Gaston

02:20 - The Big Chop: Natural Hair Journey

09:54 - What’s Next for Your Hair: Care Tips

17:34 - How to Maintain Your Braids: Best Practices

19:45 - Hair Products for Natural Hair: Recommendations

25:09 - Wig Prep for Tina: Styling Tips

28:11 - Importance of Hair Representation in Theatre

31:10 - Leandra’s Experience as Dance Captain for Tina

34:25 - The Week Broadway Shut Down: Impact on Theatre

37:13 - Colorism in the Industry: Challenges and Insights

44:31 - Colorism: Continued Discussion

45:52 - Leandra’s Tina Audition: Behind the Scenes

49:50 - What Agency is She With: Representation Matters

50:15 - Leandra’s Thoughts on the Fashion Industry

50:16 - Outro

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Unveiling Chianti Blackmon: The EDI Trailblazer Sep 26, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we're unveiling Chianti Blackmon, the EDI trailblazer making waves in the world of equity, diversity, and inclusion! Ever wonder what it's like to be at the forefront of change at a leading arts school like AMDA? Chianti spills the tea on her incredible journey, from her early days to becoming the VP of EDI. We chat about everything from her transformative work to her personal self-care rituals, and hair journey! Plus, we dive into some Broadway magic with shout-outs to "Some Like It Hot," "Once Upon a One More Time," and more! Hit subscribe and come on the ride with me, Salisha Thomas, as we celebrate the vibrant stories behind the curtains. Whether you're a fan of Snow White, Cinderella, or simply love a good performance tale, Chianti’s got insights and laughs you won’t want to miss. Let's get into it!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

02:00 - Heart Health and Well-being

06:00 - Personal Hair Journey and Identity

13:08 - Choosing Natural Hair: A Personal Decision

17:15 - Impact of Moving to Maryland on Race and Culture

22:45 - Stuffing vs. Dressing: Culinary Differences

24:37 - Accepting Responsibility and Accountability

32:35 - Addressing Harmful Comments Among Black Peers

36:01 - Responding to Racism in Real-Time

44:20 - Voting for Kamala Harris: Perspectives

48:09 - Finding Chianti: A Journey of Self-Discovery

49:20 - Outro

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Broadway Buzz: Inside The Roommate Premiere Night Sep 19, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? It’s your girl Salisha Thomas here, reporting live from the vibrant red carpet in New York City! In this video, we’re diving into the star-studded opening night of "The Roommate" on Broadway, featuring icons Patti LuPone and Mia Farrow. Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes on a night like this? Join me as I chat with the incredible cast and crew, including the brilliant Bob Crowley, and the ever-inspirational Mandy Gonzalez. We even have some fun with Broadway legends from "Hairspray" sharing their insights and excitement! From personal tales of nightmare roommates to heartfelt inspirations, this event is filled with laughter and love. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the magic of Broadway together! Let’s celebrate theater, creativity, and unforgettable performances. Don’t miss out—see you under the marquee lights!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Bob Crowley - Set Designer

01:03 - Carol Halstead - Understudy

03:06 - Marissa Jaret Winokur, Kerry Butler, Laura Bell Bundy

05:16 - Jen Silverman - Playwright Insights

09:10 - Bianca Marroquín - Actor Spotlight

12:21 - Murray Hill - Entertainment Personality

13:59 - Mandy Gonzalez - Broadway Performer

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Lynn Nottage's Creative Secrets: Unveiling Her Process Sep 12, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, we dive into the magical world of Lynn Nottage's creative secrets! Ever wonder what goes on in the mind of a Playwrighting legend? Join me, Salisha Thomas, as I chat with the incredible Lynn Nottage, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright whose works like "Sweat," "MJ The Musical," and "Intimate Apparel" have graced stages worldwide. We explore Lynn's journey from aspiring journalist to renowned playwright, discuss her fascinating writing process, and how she navigates the highs and lows of the theater industry. Lynn shares personal insights into her life, her inspirations, and even how her beautiful locs came to be! If you love Broadway, performances, and conversations around hair and inspiration, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we unravel the stories that make Lynn Nottage a true icon in the world of theater and beyond.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

02:52 - Writing as a Career

07:11 - Writing Process Insights

11:05 - Idea Generation Techniques

12:26 - Character Development Insights

13:59 - Impact of Awards on Writing

20:03 - Character Appearance Considerations

21:33 - Personal Hair Journey

30:47 - Sources of Inspiration

32:08 - Diversity in the Industry

35:18 - Favorite Written Works

36:39 - Legacy Aspirations

38:27 - Current Passion Projects

41:40 - Outro

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The Raw Truth about 'Dirty Laundry' Onstage! Sep 05, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, I’m diving deep behind the scenes with the talented cast and creative minds of "Dirty Laundry" on The Salisha Show! Ever wonder what it’s like to bring a raw, emotion-packed play to life on the Broadway stage? Join me as I chat with stars Lakisha May, Richard Masur, Connstance Shulman, along with Amy Jo Jackson, Yvette Ganier, and Sasha Diamond, who give life to the chorus characters, unraveling the emotional threads of this unique story. We also hear from Director Rebecca Martinez and the playwright Mathilde Dratwa, the powerhouse female creative team behind this compelling new production.

Our conversation touches on everything from the intriguing dynamics of playing characters like "Me" and "My Dad" to the challenges of preparing for stage versus screen. We even explore the intense themes of grief, family, and change that weave through the narrative, all with a touch of humor and theatrical flair. Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us, as we explore the depths of human emotion, creativity, and the joy of storytelling. Don’t miss out on this Broadway journey!

@thesalishashow www.thesalishashow.com Thank you to The Broadway Podcast Network and the cast of Dirty Laundry playing September 21-October 20, 2024 at the WP Theater in NYC.

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Black Girl Magic on Broadway: Kris Roberts, Jessie Hooker Bailey, TyNia Brandon, Gabrielle Elisabeth Aug 29, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? It’s me, Salisha Thomas, and I’m thrilled to bring you some Black Girl Magic straight from Broadway! In this video, we dive deep into real talk on hair, femininity, and the powerful stories of Black women in theater. Joined by the fabulous Housso Semon Gabrielle Elisabeth Kris Roberts, TyNia Brandon, Jessie Hooker Bailey. We share our journeys with hair and how it shapes our identity on and off stage. From rocking natural curls to embracing shaved heads, we discuss self-love, femininity, and breaking stereotypes.

Ever wonder what it’s like to balance performance and personal style? We got you covered! Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate Black excellence, authenticity, and the magic of Broadway. 🎭✨

Don’t miss out on these inspiring stories and join the conversation. Let's uplift each other and continue to shine!

#NaturalHair #BlackWomensJourney #BlackHistoryMonth #RealTalk #BlackDollar #BeautifulTheCaroleKingMusical

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Ty’s Shaved Head

08:20 - Black History Month

11:25 - Woman First or Black First

17:00 - Authenticity in White Spaces

24:31 - Taking the High Road

27:24 - Supporting Black Businesses

31:24 - Love Languages

35:17 - Goodbye

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BroadwayCon Exclusive: Amber Iman’s Inspiring Journey Aug 22, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, we dive into an exclusive BroadwayCon chat with the incredible Amber Iman! From her Broadway debut in "Soul Doctor" playing Nina Simone to her Tony-nominated performance in "Lempicka," Amber has truly made her mark on the Broadway stage. 🎭

Ever wonder what it takes to shine in shows like "Shuffle Along" with legends like Brian Stokes Mitchell and Billy Porter? Amber spills all the tea on her journey, her Glam Squad, and the whirlwind of emotions surrounding her Tony nod. Plus, we talk about her groundbreaking work with the Broadway Advocacy Coalition and Black Women on Broadway Awards. This isn't just a story of success, it's about resilience, passion, and lifting others as you climb. 💪🏽

Hit subscribe and come on the ride! You don’t want to miss this deep dive into Amber’s inspiring journey and her thoughts on diversity and inclusion in the Broadway community. Whether you're a die-hard Broadway fan or just love a good success story, this one's for you!

#Broadway #AmberIman #BroadwayCon #TonyNominated #Inspiration #Advocacy #DiversityInTheater

#TonyAwards #TonyNomination #AmberImanInterview #PerformingArts #BuildingCommunityInBroadway #BlackWomenBroadway #BroadwayAdvocacy#MentalHealthInArts

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:54 - Amber's Glam Squad

02:14 - Amber's Journey in "Lempicka"

09:52 - Pressure is a Privilege

11:49 - Advocacy in the Arts

16:28 - Personal Growth Journey

19:11 - Broadway Diversity and Inclusion

22:00 - Approaching Amber for Projects

24:20 - Experiences in Challenging Shows

26:40 - Increasing Representation in Theatre

29:55 - Managing Dual Roles on Stage

31:25 - Final Thoughts

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Inside BroadwayCon with JJ Niemann: TikTok & Theater Tales Aug 15, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, I’m taking you inside the magical world of BroadwayCon with the incredible JJ Niemann! Ever wonder what it's like to balance Broadway stardom with TikTok fame? Join us as we dive into JJ’s journey from being a theater kid to performing on Broadway.

We chat about his whirlwind audition experiences for "The Book of Mormon" and "Back to the Future," and the excitement of covering roles like George McFly and Marty McFly. Plus, JJ shares hilarious and heartfelt stories about his rise to TikTok stardom and how he juggles content creation with his eight-show-a-week schedule.

Whether you’re an aspiring performer or a budding content creator, JJ’s insights and advice are invaluable!

Don’t miss out on this fun and inspirational conversation. Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us through the dazzling and dynamic world of Broadway! 🌟

#ActingTips #NycTheaterScene #MusicalTheater #InfluencersInTheater #BroadwayActors

#StageDebut #RegionalTheaters #BroadwayPerformer #Theater #BehindTheScenesBroadway

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:55 - JJ Niemann

07:38 - JJ and Salisha Reminisce "Grease" Memories

08:20 - JJ's First Performance as Marty in "Back to the Future"

10:48 - Broadway Debut Experience

11:40 - Origin of JJ's TikTok Journey

15:47 - Balancing Broadway and TikTok Content

18:50 - Biggest "Pinch Me" Moments in Theatre

19:32 - Tips for Aspiring Performers

20:43 - Guidance for Aspiring Content Creators

22:19 - How to Connect with JJ Niemann

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Sasha Hutchings' Hair Journey: From Perms to Natural Curls Aug 08, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Sasha Hutchings to dive deep into her inspiring hair journey, from perms to embracing her natural curls! 💁🏽‍♀️ Ever wonder what it takes to maintain those gorgeous curls while performing on Broadway stages like "Hamilton" and "Oklahoma"? Sasha spills all her secrets! From her favorite products to her hair care routines, this episode is packed with tips and personal anecdotes that any curly girl can relate to!

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate the beauty of natural hair and the power of self-expression! 💖✨

#SashaHutchings #Broadway #HairJourney #NaturalCurls #SalishaThomas #TransitioningToNaturalHair #ProtectiveStylesForCurls #CurlyHairCommunity #BlackHairCare #CurlyHairTransformation #HealthyCurlsCare #CurlyHairProducts #SashaHutchings

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

02:49 - Going Natural: Sasha's Journey

08:58 - Hair Care Routine: Sasha's Tips

11:47 - Navigating Family Expectations

17:11 - Exploring Different Afro Shapes

24:44 - Haircuts: Frequency and Importance

31:21 - Hair Washing Process Explained

38:38 - Product Usage: Finding the Right Amount

40:38 - Maintenance Routine: Frequency Insights

44:48 - Maintaining Curls During Sweat

49:04 - Thank You for Watching

49:35 - Connect with Sasha Hutchings

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The Ultimate Broadway Journey: 9 Shows in 9 Years! 🎭 Aug 01, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🎭 In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Shina Morris, who’s taken Broadway by storm with an astonishing 9 shows in 9 years! From "West Side Story" to "Cinderella" and "Tootsie," Shina shares her unforgettable journey in the world of Broadway. Ever wonder what it takes to balance a thriving Broadway career, TV appearances, and family life? Shina spills the tea on how she does it all with grace and humility. We dive into her experience at the Black Women on Broadway Awards and chat about her heartwarming journey to motherhood.

Shina’s story is not just about the glitz and glam; it’s about perseverance, hard work, and staying true to oneself. From overcoming setbacks to celebrating big wins, this conversation is packed with inspiration. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the ultimate Broadway journey with Shina Morris! Let's get into it! 🎬✨ #Broadway #ShinaMorris #SalishaThomas #Swing #Performance #BlackWomenOnBroadway #MusicalTheaterCareer #DiversityInTheater

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

07:05 - Sheena's First Broadway Show

15:40 - Staying Encouraged in Life

16:07 - Coping When You Can't Dance

31:17 - Body Changes During Pregnancy

33:30 - Hair Care Tips and Tricks

40:57 - Defining Your Signature Look

41:51 - Navigating Hair Conversations

50:39 - Where to Find Sheena

51:00 - Outro

51:09 - Advice for Future Generations

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From Heavy Metal to Broadway: Kevin Trinio Perdido's Journey 🎭 Jul 25, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Trinio Perdido and dive into his incredible journey from heavy metal drummer to Broadway star! 🎭 Ever wonder what it takes to transition from rocking out to starring in a hit musical like Once Upon a One More Time? Kevin spills all the details about his path, his love for dance, and his experiences on stage.

We chat about his role in the Britney Spears musical, his time as a swing performer, and moments that made his journey unforgettable. Plus, you’ll hear fun anecdotes about his life, including his husky pup and his passion for gospel choir! This is one interview you don’t want to miss. Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us as we explore the world of Broadway through Kevin’s eyes. 🌟

Join us for this candid conversation and get inspired by Kevin’s story! From his days as a Disney performer to playing Snow White’s prince, Kevin shows us that dreams do come true with hard work and determination. Let’s celebrate Kevin’s journey together! 💫

Follow Kevin on Instagram @perderder_k

#KevinPerdidoDance #BroadwayMusical #SalishaThomas #ActingTips #ActingInsights

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:40 - Kevin’s Husky

4:55 - Could Kevin Drum

10:53 - Kevin’s Dance Journey

15:44 - Being an Asian Dancer in the Industry

17:48 - Childhood Dreams

23:30 - Kevin’s First Dance Job

30:23 - Where to Find Kevin

31:38 - OUTRO

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Ryan Steele's Secrets to Broadway Success 🎭✨ Jul 18, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this episode, I sit down with the phenomenal Ryan Steele to uncover his secrets to Broadway success! Ever wonder what it takes to make it big on the biggest stage? Ryan, who’s dazzled us in "West Side Story," "Matilda," "Carousel," and "Once Upon a One More Time," spills it all!

Ryan shares candid stories from his journey—from his early days in Michigan to becoming a swing in “Once Upon a One More Time” and performing on the Oscars stage. We dive into his experiences working alongside incredible talent, his humble beginnings, and how he maintains positivity and humility even during stressful times. Plus, we reminisce about our time together in the Britney Spears musical - Once Upon a One More Time - and share some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments!

Join us for this heartwarming and inspiring conversation. Hit subscribe and come on the ride! You won’t want to miss a minute of this Broadway star’s journey! 🌟✨

Follow Ryan on Instagram @rysteele

#Broadway #RyanSteele #SalishaThomas #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #Swing #Performance #SnowWhite #Cinderella

#BroadwayInsights

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

7:54 - Ryan's positivity secrets

9:35 - Journey from Michigan to NYC

11:44 - Building confidence

14:36 - Working with Keone and Mari

16:29 - Auditioning for Once Upon a One More Time

20:13 - Playing Prince Erudite

21:56 - Returning from the break

23:46 - Hopes and dreams for 2022

24:55 - Developing acting skills

27:19 - Passion for photography

28:19 - Rapid fire questions

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Real Talk: Destinee Stewart on Hair, Identity & Healing Jul 11, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, we're diving deep into an incredibly heartfelt and transformative conversation with Destinee Stewart! Ever wonder what it’s like to navigate hair, identity, and healing? Well, buckle up because Destinee shares her profound journey of going natural, embracing her blackness, and finding spiritual healing through her hair. 🌟

Join us as we discuss the emotional rollercoaster of transitioning to natural hair in LA, the societal pressures of Black identity, and how our crowns are reflections of our inner selves. Destinee’s vibrant energy and genuine words will leave you inspired and reflective.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate black hair, acknowledge the struggles, and embrace the beauty of our natural selves. Remember, your hair is your crown – wear it proudly! 👑✨

#DestineeStewart #HairEmpowerment #HairExperiences #HairIdentity #HairAndSelfLove

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:20 - How Destinee’s life changed after going natural

9:33 - Finding the courage to go natural in LA

20:15 - Haircut story

33:24 - Dear Hair

40:55 - Hair as a statement or expression

51:37 - Grateful for & Excited About

52:06 - Where to Find Destinee

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Aiyana Smash: My Hair Journey & Self-Love Jul 04, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, I’m chatting with the incredible star of the stage Aiyana Smash about her hair journey and self-love! 🌟 Ever wonder what it’s like to manage natural hair while performing in Theater? Aiyana shares her path to self-acceptance. From dealing with hair expectations in the theater to embracing her beautiful, natural curls, Aiyana’s story is both inspiring and enlightening!

Join us as we dive into her time covering for roles in "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" and the impactful moments from her time in the 20th and 25th-anniversary tours of "Rent." Aiyana also opens up about her spiritual practices, health coaching journey during the pandemic, and the importance of staying true to oneself. You won’t want to miss this heartfelt conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and a whole lot of love.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride! 🎭💖

#FromBullyingToStardom #CarolKingMusical #AiyanaSmash #BlackWomenTheater #BroadwayMusical

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:40 - How are you

5:45 - First day of rehearsal

10:10 - Your essence

14:29 - Imari Health Coaching

19:56 - Your Hair

23:07 - How the Pandemic Changed Your Life

26:56 - Your Big Chop Story

30:40 - Theatrical Productions & Black Hair

35:00 - The importance of advocating for yourself

39:29 - OUTRO

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Saint Aubyn’s Broadway Journey: Honoring Ancestors and Legends Jun 27, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Saint Aubyn to the dazzling lights of Broadway. Ever wonder what it’s like to portray iconic figures like Dennis Edwards in "Ain't Too Proud" or Lloyd Price in "Personality"? Grammy-nominated, Saint shares it all!

Join Salisha Thomas as she chats with Saint about his performances in "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" and "Dreamgirls" at McCarter Theatre Center. Discover how Saint’s deep connection with his ancestors and mentors like Gregory Hines fuels his powerful stage presence. 🌍✨

From heartwarming stories of family and heritage to star-studded moments with legends like Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions and inspiration. Saint’s journey is a testament to honoring your roots and embracing every moment on and off stage. 🎭

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the magic of Broadway, the essence of performance, and the unmatched energy Saint brings to every role. You won’t want to miss this! 💫 #Broadway #Performance

#ActorInterview #SaintAubyn #AncestralJourney #AintTooProud #StagePerformances

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #Performance #HairCareRoutine #NaturalHair #HairTips

Find Saint @iamsaintaubyn on Instagram and everywhere else!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

2:05 - Feeling the Spirits of Portrayed Characters

5:42 - Honoring Ancestors

9:15 - Experience with Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle

13:03 - Lloyd Price Bio Musical

14:35 - Ain’t Too Proud Musical

22:17 - Your Hair Journey

31:16 - Broadway Community and Natural Hair

39:42 - Dream Dinner Party with Legends

44:04 - Defining Success

48:01 - Money is an Illusion

49:20 - Motivation: Just Do It

51:10 - Ben Vereen Tribute

52:20 - Finding Saint Aubyn

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Balancing Art & Life: Tanya Everett's Journey Jun 20, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Tanya Everett, a multi-talented TV writer, playwright, speaker, and producer! Ever wonder what it takes to balance art and life? Tanya's story will inspire you as she shares her experiences from the Public Theater to Cherry Lane, and even on TV.

We chat about her bi-coastal life, moving between LA and Brooklyn, and her powerful TEDx talk, "Learning the Grief Dance." She opens up about navigating grief, thriving during the SAG-AFTRA strikes, and even her hilarious hairstyle adventures!

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as Tanya reveals the secrets behind her success, her creative process, and how she stays true to herself. Don’t miss this heartfelt and engaging conversation!

Join us and be inspired by Tanya Everett's journey! 💖 Let’s celebrate the beauty of black hair in the big leagues together! 🌟

#LearningGriefDance #CherryLaneTheater #HairChange #ActorLife #Playwright

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

0:50 - Where are you

4:00 - How did you do that TEDx talk

10:20 - How do you balance grief while doing big things

15:07 - Have you ever changed your hair after a big life change

20:30 - Solution for actors of color with hair on set

30:10 - Body image and beauty standards

40:15 - What would you tell your 8 year old self

42:04 - Where can people find you

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Why My Broadway Dream Was a Roller Coaster of Emotions 🎭 Jun 13, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, I take you on a heartfelt journey from my days as a Broadway swing to embracing my natural hair! 🎭✨ Ever wonder what it’s like to perform in hit shows like "Once Upon a One More Time" and dream of being on the Tony Awards stage? Well, I’m spilling all the tea! From the roller coaster of performing eight shows a week in roles like Snow White and Cinderella, to finding the confidence in my natural curls, this episode of The Salisha Show is all about dreams, resilience, and authenticity.

Join me as I share the highs and lows of Broadway life, my thoughts on this year's Tony nominations, and my unwavering love for big, unapologetic hair. Whether you’re here for career inspiration or hair care tips, there's something for everyone.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride! Let’s celebrate the journey, the performances, and the beauty of being true to ourselves. 🌟💖

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #SwingLife #Performance #NaturalHair #TheSalishaShow #TonyAwards #BroadwayDreams #SnowWhite #Cinderella

#OriginalCast #HairPodcast #Broadway #SalishaThomas #BlackWomenHair

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BHBL: Rachel Simone Webb on Hair, Heart, and Broadway Dreams 💇‍♀️🎶 Jun 06, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🎉 In this video, I sit down with the incredible Rachel Simone Webb, straight from the original cast of "& Juliet" on Broadway! 🌟 Ever wonder what it's like to juggle roles on Broadway, or how to keep your hair fabulous while doing it all? Well, Rachel spills the tea on her Broadway journey, from playing Judith every night to understudying the title role of Juliet.

We dive into her experiences with the inspiring Black Excellence on Broadway, produced by Aisha Jackson, and the support system among black actresses. Rachel also opens up about her aspirations, her love for singing and storytelling, and how she's tackling the challenge of writing and releasing her music. 🎶

From hair care tips, including her love for Drybar and black-owned salons, to her backstage life and camaraderie with castmates, this chat is filled with insights and laughter. Plus, we dish out on shows like "Once Upon a One More Time," "Some Like It Hot," and "The Great Gatsby."

Hit subscribe and come on the ride! 🚀 Don't miss out on this heartfelt and inspiring conversation with a Broadway star who’s as down-to-earth as she is talented. ❤️

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #RachelSimoneWebb #AndJuliet #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #Swing #Performance #BlackExcellence #SnowWhite #Cinderella #BroadwayDreams #HairCare #BlackGirlMagic

Let’s support and uplift each other, y’all! ✨

#BlackExcellence #RachelSimoneWeb #BroadwayActress #RachelSimoneWebb #BroadwayDreams

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

1:47 - Rachel Simone Webb

2:41 - How are you today

4:56 - An Juliet

11:29 - Warming up for Juliet

12:55 - Rachel’s Voice

21:59 - Hair Care Tips

27:45 - Transcendental Meditation Benefits

28:35 - Pandemic Hair Styles

31:34 - Free Time Activities

33:46 - New Season Highlights

34:37 - What’s Next for Rachel

37:45 - Closing Thoughts

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John Glover's Secret to Longevity on Broadway 🎭 May 30, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, I’m thrilled to sit down with the legendary John Glover at 80! We dive deep into his incredible life lessons and his illustrious career on Broadway. From starring in "Smallville" as Lionel Luther to his unforgettable performances in "Scrooged," "Gremlins 2," and "Payback," John’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Ever wonder what it's like to perform in over 19 Broadway shows, including "The Drowsy Chaperone," "The Importance of Being Earnest," and "Waiting for Godot"? John shares it all, including his Tony-winning role in "Love! Valour! Compassion!"

Join us as we reminisce about our time together in "Once Upon a One More Time" on pre-Broadway, where John’s playful spirit and big heart shone brightly. Hear about his adventures on "Fear of The Walking Dead," "The Good Wife," and "Lucifer," and get a glimpse of his ongoing work in "And Just Like That."

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate the incredible John Glover and his many contributions to Broadway and beyond. You don’t want to miss this heartfelt and hilarious chat. Let's give a warm welcome to the one and only, John Glover!

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #Swing #Performance #SnowWhite #Cinderella #JohnGlover #TonyAward #Legend #LifeLessons

#Gremlins2Actor #FilmActor #ActingAdvice #SmallvilleLionelLuthor #JohnGloverBroadwayLegend

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

2:45 - John Glover Turning 80

7:40 - Replacing Original in The Drowsy Chaperone

15:18 - Transforming Roles Easily

20:10 - Unliked Roles Experience

24:45 - Advocacy Work

31:43 - Desired Legacy

33:17 - Self-Discovery Insights

33:40 - Advice for Aspiring Actors

39:30 - John’s Hair

42:40 - Where to Find John

45:38 - Goodbye

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Unfiltered & Heartfelt Chat with Broadway Besties Mark Kurian May 23, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, I sit down with the incredible Mark Krian to dive deep into hair, love, and Broadway! Ever wonder what it's like to be a Broadway bestie? Well, wonder no more! 😍

Mark Krian, creator of BHL magazine and host of the viral podcast Broadway Besties, joins me on the show. We reminisce about our special moments, from the heartfelt song that brought us together to him officiating my wedding! 💍 We also talk about our Broadway adventures, including my time as a swing in "Once Upon a One More Time," where I got to step into the roles of Snow White and Cinderella. 🕺👑

Mark's passion for connecting with people and fostering relationships is truly inspiring. We chat about everything from the ups and downs of theater life to his viral podcast journey with co-host Amy. Mark's stories are filled with humor, warmth, and so much heart.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us as we share laughs, memories, and some unfiltered moments. You won’t want to miss this one! 🎭✨

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #Swing #Performance #SnowWhite #Cinderella #MarkKurian #HairLoveBroadway#BroadwayBesties

#MusicalTheater #MarkKurianPodcast #BroadwayStars #HairLove #LifeMoments

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

1:50 - Mark Kurian

6:34 - How Does Mark Do It

10:40 - History Doesn’t Get Lost

20:35 - Broadway Trivia

22:25 - Mark's Favorite Comments from His Podcast

24:31 - How Mark Built His Media Empire

26:48 - What Mark Has Learned About Himself

28:42 - The Power of Words

32:30 - Mark Officiated Salisha's Wedding

34:30 - What’s Your Real Last Name

38:15 - What Are You Most Grateful for Today

39:07 - Where Can People Find You

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BHBL: From Pageants to Broadway: Holli Conway's Inspiring Path May 16, 2024

Hey y’all, what’s up? Welcome back to Black Hair in the Big Leagues! 🌟 In this video, join your host Salisha Thomas as she sits down with the phenomenal Holli Conway, returning to Broadway in Lempicka! 🎭 Ever wonder what it takes to shine on the big stage in New York City? Holli shares her inspiring journey from Miss Louisiana to Broadway star, her experiences in the original Broadway cast of Lempicka, and the magic of recording her first cast album.

We dive deep into her groundbreaking moments, including her natural hair journey and the impact of her pageant days on her Broadway career. Plus, get an inside look at the vibrant, family-like atmosphere at Lempicka, and hear about her upcoming rehearsals for Rafaela. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this candid and heartfelt conversation!

Hit subscribe and come on the ride! Whether you're a Broadway enthusiast or just love a good success story, this one's for you! 🎉✨

#NaturalHairProducts #PageantPreparation #MissLouisiana #PageantBoard #NorthwesternStateUniversity

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

1:30 - How is Holly doing

6:55 - Holly is a Pageant Girl

11:59 - Holly’s Natural Hair Journey

18:01 - The Power of Representation

21:37 - Miss America Docuseries

27:17 - Transitioning to Natural Hair

32:19 - Where Does Your Confidence Come From

38:57 - What Did You Do with All Your Miss Louisiana Stuff

40:13 - Holly Conway - Outro

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BHBL: Antoine L Smith: The Star Power Lighting Up Broadway Stages May 09, 2024

Antoine L Smith graces Black Hair in the Big Leagues! He's an Emmy award winning Broadway, TV, and VO Actor

Some credits include the Broadway companies of Carousel, The Color Purple, Memphis, Miss Saigon, and most recently the original Broadway cast of MJ the Musical.

He originated the 1st National Tour of Cinderella, and was in the all black cast of Oklahoma in Denver

Accomplished VO and commercial artist having done KFC, Pepsi, Nickelodeon, chilis, chase, square space, various video games, and so much more.

Host, Salisha Thomas Weiss first met him at Black Excellence on Broadway at Chelsea Table and Stage. His performance and tribute to Chuck Cooper was ground shaking.

He has a presence. He has a gift. Please welcome, ANTOINE L SMITH!

Follow Antoine on IG @antoinelsmith32

Follow Host Salisha Thomas Weiss on IG @thesalishashow!

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BHBL: Sunday Best's Latice Crawford Speaks Life May 02, 2024

Latice Crawford sits down with host, Salisha Thomas Weiss this week on Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Latice Crawford is a recording artist known for her soulful and powerful vocals. She rose to fame as a contestant on the second season of BET's gospel singing competition, "Sunday Best," where she showcased her exceptional talent. Since then, Latice has continued to captivate audiences with her music, blending gospel, R&B, and soul influences to create a unique sound. With her heartfelt lyrics and dynamic voice, Latice Crawford has established herself as a notable figure in the music industry.

Follow Latice Crawford on IG @laticecrawford

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas on IG @thesalishashow

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BHBL: Jasmine Amy Rogers shines as BETTY BOOP and Beyond! Apr 25, 2024

Betty Boop's BOOP: Jasmine Amy Rogers joins host, Salisha Thomas Weiss on this week's episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Jasmine is a true Triple threat. She’s a Jimmy awards finalist, attended Manhattan School of Music, was cast in Becoming Nancy, and Gretchen in the national tour of Mean Girls. When Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray and La Cage aux faux choreographer, and director Legally Blonde, Kinky Boots, and Pretty Woman) went on what felt like a world wide search for his Betty in the the new Betty Boop musical, he found this gorgeous starlette. Please welcome the star of Boop, JASMINE AMY ROGERS!

Follow Jasmine on IG @jasmine_amy_r

Follow Salisha on IG @thesalishashow

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Wally Green Unites us All w/ Ping Pong Apr 18, 2024

Wally Green joins host, Salisha Thomas, in conversation this week on The Salisha Show! Salisha first met Wally at Podfest. He is guenuinely friendly, kind, talented, a unique soul, and has quite a story. He is a TEDx speaker and a celebrity pro athlete. What’s his sport of choice? Ping pong! Wally’s played for the USA in over 35 Pro Tour competitions. He is a co-owner of SPIN New York locations, a chain of ping pong social clubs. Wally shares on his journey through life: childhood, sports, international travel, being the only Black person in the room and more!

Follow Wally Green @wallygreennyc on IG / @wallygreennycofficial on TikTok

Watch Wally's TEDx Talk

Follow SPIN @wearespin

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas Weiss @thesalishashow and www.salishathomas.com

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BHBL: Navigating Addiction with Author of Stash: Laura Cathcart Robbins Apr 11, 2024

Author of Stash, Laura Cathcart Robbins visits Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas Weiss. She takes us on the journey of how her addiction began, the agony of rehab, and how she returned to the world and persisted in living a life of sobriety, and living to tell the story. Laura is a freelance writer, speaker, and host of The Only One In The Room podcast, a 2022 TEDx speaker, and an LA Moth StorySlam winner.

Buy her book. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Stash/Laura-Cathcart-Robbins/9781668005347

Follow her. @lauracathcartrobbins, www.lauracathcartrobbins.com

More info on your host: @salishathomas, www.salishathomas.com

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William Hung at PODFEST! Apr 04, 2024

The Salisha Show welcomes William Hung! From American Idol season 3 in 2004, William Hung made Ricky Martins song She bang more popular than Ricky Martin himself. After American Idol, he went on to perform WITH Ricky Martin, travel the world and become an international speaker.

Hes been featured in several national magazines and newspapers; he was parodied on Saturday Night Live, Mad TV, Celebrity Deathmatch, and The Fairly OddParents

He’s BEEN on

Jimmy Kimmel Live!, On Air with Ryan Seacrest, Entertainment Tonight, George Lopez, the Late Show with David Letterman, Countdown with Keith Olbermann, The Howard Stern Radio Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Dateline NBC, Arrested Development, CBS's The Early Show, and now The Salisha Show.

He has amassed a worldwide cult following, of which we are a part of. Please welcome: WILLIAM HUNG!

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BHBL: Beacon of Confidence: Writer and Producer Stephanie Alexandria Mar 28, 2024

Stephanie Alexandria drops by Black Hair in the Big Leagues with Host, Salisha Thomas Weiss! She was awarded Top 40 under 40 at Stony Brooke University, she is an award-winning journalist and writer/producer at MSNBC! Stephanie sings, acts, has a great sense of humor and is a beacon of confidence. Follow her online @stephanie_alexandria

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Guest Spotlight: Jay Armstrong Johnson on The Salisha Show Mar 21, 2024

On this episode, Broadway's Jay Armstrong Johnson sits down with host, Salisha Thomas on The Salisha Show! Jay Armstrong Johnson is a singer, actor, dancer, writer, and producer of Broadway and TV. He gives back to the community having created I Put A Spell On You- an annual benefit concert based on the cult classic Halloween Movie called Hocus Pocus. He attended NYU at the Steinhardt School of Music and left his senior year to star in the Broadway National Tour of A Chorus Line. Jay later went on to make his Broadway debut in the revival of Hair and later starred in On The Town, Phantom of the Opera 30th Anniversary Show, Hands on a Hard Body, Catch Me If You Can, To My Girls, Scottland PA, and Darling Grenadine (to name a few). HE IS A BROADWAY BABY. But also graced the TV screen in Quantico starring opposite Pryanka Chopra-Jonas for 3 seasons.

Jay's annual Halloween Benefit Concert, I Put a Spell On You, helps benefit The Ali Forney Center. You can find out more at https://jayarmstrongjohnson.org/.

Follow Jay Armstrong Johnson on IG @jay_a_johnson.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas at www.salishathomas.com and on IG @salishathomas

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BHBL: Ease on Down the Road with The Wiz Revival's Matthew Sims Jr. Mar 14, 2024

Matthew Sims Jr. visits long time friend Salisha Thomas on Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Currently on tour with The Wiz and about to make his Broadway debut in the Marquis Theater in The Wiz Revival, Matthew Sims Jr. is the most hilarious, full of life, well rounded performer having done commercials, tv/film, cruise lines, plenty of Regional Theater, Broadway Inspirational Voices, singing with John Legend, and more! He's also been on tour with The Book of Mormon, and the Wiz.

Go see The Wiz on Broadway for a limited run beginning March 29th at the Marquis Theater in Times Square!

Follow Matthew @matthewsimsjr and www.matthewsimsjr.com

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and www.salishathomas.com

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Julie Boardman: A Theatrical Legacy in the Making Mar 07, 2024

Julie Boardman slays us all this week on The Salisha Show. What better way to kick up Women's History Month than with a badass woman taking up space in the producing world? Julie Boardman was a performer on Broadway and now PRODUCES big Broadway shows like Head Over Heels, Carousel, Indecent, Dames at Sea, Forest Whittaker's production of Hughie, and An American in Paris. She's a member of the Broadway League, a Tony Award voter, and a graduate of USC. She is the co-creator and founder of The Museum of Broadway in Time Square. She's phenomenal and an icon in the making.

Follow Julie Boardman @msjulieboardman

Follow The Museum of Broadway @museumofbroadway

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas Weiss @thesalishashow

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BHBL: Gabrielle Beckford is Slaying Stereotypes: a Black Woman's Triumph in a Classic Role Jan 04, 2024

Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes the incomparable Gabrielle Beckford to the show! Host, Salisha Thomas sits down with former cast mate of Once Upon a One More Time on Broadway, Gabrielle Beckford. Gabrielle made a splash with her Broadway debut as the character, Rapunzel; smashing stereotypes and while giving a new twist to a classic. Hearing her story of wanting to see herself in the characters of the stories she watched growing up and how she gets to BE the representation that she wished she had, is nothing short of inspiring.

See Gabrielle Beckford LIVE this February 5, 2024 at Chelsea Table and Stage as she makes her solo debut in New York City. Produced by Salisha Thomas, this production will be live in person as well as streaming worldwide.

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BHBL: Breaking Molds and Shaping Stories; Aisha Jackson Uncut Dec 28, 2023

Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcome back Aisha Jackson! If you don't know, she was one of the first episodes to kick off the entire podcast (EP 2)!!! In this episode, Host, Salisha Thomas sits down with Aisha in the dressing room of The Marquis Theatre on Broadway during loadout...aka after Once Upon a One More Time (the musical powered with the music of Britney Spears) had taken it's final bow. A truncated version of this episode is available on youtube at www.youtube.com/itsmesalish.

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BHBL: From Broadway Lights to Hollywood Nights: Phylicia Pearl Mpasi Makes a Star Turn Dec 22, 2023

Phylicia Pearl Mpasi from the upcoming Blockbuster hit, The Color Purple graces us with her presence here on Black Hair in the Big Leagues. Recorded just DAYS before the release of what's sure to be her star turn, Phylicia sits down with host, Salisha Thomas and talks about her journey from The Lion King on tour and on Broadway to writing for the TV show, The Rise of the Pink Ladies, to landing the role of the century: Young Celie in The Color Purple.

Phylicia talks about declaring what she wanted, writing it down, having a fierce belief in herself and her dreams, and walking with purpose as she watched (and is watching) it all come to pass. This episode will leave you feeling inspired and on fire to enter the new year with the excitement of what's possible for your life.

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BHBL: After the Final Curtain with guest Justin Guarini Oct 04, 2023

American Idol's Justin Guarini stops by Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas Weiss for an episode of laughter and nostalgia. Justin recently closed his run as Prince Charming in Once Upon a One More Time at the Marquis Theatre on Broadway. In addition to performing live in front of 30 Million viewers during American Idol season 1 and landing in the top two, Justin has also gone on to have an impressive career on Broadway, headlining 7 shows. He is the author of Audition Secrets and you may have caught him in a series of Dr. Pepper commercials as Lil Sweet. Book Justin for coaching, workshops, speaking and more at www.JustinGuarini.com and follow him on social media @justinguarini.

For the video version of this episode, click here.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas Weiss @salishathomas or go to www.salishathomas.com.

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BHBL: Playwright of New Play: Truth- Gail Burton Jul 27, 2023

Hello! Salisha Thomas here! And I'm excited to share that I making my Theater producing debut of a play written by this week's guest on Black Hair in the Big Leagues: Gail Burton! Gail is a thought leader, public intellectual, director, and a writer. She is a trained and experienced practitioner of the techniques developed to affect radical social change and help bring about social jutice, peace, and empowerment of people whos voices have too often been silenced. Her life's work has been focused on social activism and the uses of theater for radical social transformation.

The piece that Gail Burton is currently writing is called Truth: a Biofictional Choreopoem. And we have a crowdfund where we are aiming to raise $55,000. It's only been one week and we've already raised more than half of the money! This is HUGE! Be a part of our story, and donate to our crowdfund (and check out the project!) at http://www.truthplay.org

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BHBL: A Goddess Living: Martina Sykes Jun 22, 2023

Martina Sykes is Royalty among us. She was in Motown the Musical on tour and on Broadway, Raindogs, Rent, Hairspray, and is currently on tour with Lion King as Shenzi! Her brother is Ephraim Sykes, also a major talent in the industry so clearly the Sykes Family has something special running through their veins. She created a nonprofit called the HeART Mission as well as The Sykes Scholarship.

Welcome to Black Hair in the Big Leagues Martina Sykes!

Follow her @ladysykes1

Follow host, Salisha Thomas Weiss @salishathomas

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BHBL: Tony Nominated Actress and Business Woman: Shalita Grant Jun 15, 2023

Host, Salisha Thomas sits down with Actress turned Businesswoman Shalita Grant on this week's episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues. She is the founder and creator of Four Naturals Hair products.

Her acting credits include (but are not limited to) TV shows NCIS, Santa Clarita diet, Mercy Street, and You. She was nominated for a Tony award for her role in Vanya and Sonya and Masha and Spike.

After a physically damaging experience to her hair on set of a hit TV show, she left the show and made a product that has changed the game for her. Now she's on a mission to help others!

Check out Four Naturals HERE!

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BHBL: The Icon and Living Legend: Jocelyn Bioh Jun 08, 2023

The one and only Jocelyn Bioh graces Black Hair in the Big Leagues with her presence this week for our 100th Episode!!!!!!! She is the woman who wrote School Girls: The African Mean Girls Play, and Nollywood. She's a playwright with Manhattan Theater Club and Atlantic Theatre Company. She's a resident playwright at Lincoln Center. She adapted Marry Wives for Shakespeare in the Park which was turned into a documentary on HBO Max. The musical soon to hit Broadway starring Amber Iman called Goddess, was written by Jocelyn Bioh. In addition to her incredible contributions to the art in New York and beyond, she is also an actor and has performed on and off Broadway (OBC for The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.) Ohio State and Columbia University grad, Jocelyn Bioh is one of the founders of the Black Women on Broadway instagram account.

Follow her @blackwomenonbroadway, @jjbioh

Follow host, Salisha Thomas Weiss @salishathomas

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BHBL: Basking in Gratitude and Abundance w/ Celeb Stylist Sophie Rose Jun 01, 2023

This week on Black Hair in the Big Leagues, host Salisha Thomas sits down with celebrity stylist, Sophie Rose (Gutterman). She's been in the hair industry for over 10 years, is California based (but travels), and has worked for Italian Vogue, Hollywood Reporter, Harper's Baazar, Maybelline, Christian Dior, Karlie Kloss, Gwyneth Paltrow, and more! Sophie has styled hosts on ESPN and MTV, and done hair on Red Table Talk, Good Morning America, and the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. The list goes on and on! She loves using Zotos Professional on her clients (including Salisha!)

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BHBL: Set Your Mind to Do Anything, with Aurelia Michael Holmgren May 25, 2023

Aurelia Michael Holmgren joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues lineup with host, Salisha Thomas Weiss. Aurelia is a Motivational Speaker, Dancer, a body builder, a major voiceover artist (booking gigs like McDonald's, Hulu, and Netflix!) and the creator of Voice On Demand. She swung the Donna Sumer Musical on Broadway. She's the associate choreographer for the upcoming Wonderful World coming soon to Broadway!

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BHBL: A Broadway Reality Check with Salome B Smith and Imani Pearl Williams Mar 23, 2023

This episode was recorded during the Broadway Revival run of 1776 with a full cast of Women and Nonbinary actors and a whole lot of People of Color. Originally, 1776, a show about the making of the Declaration of Independence was performed by a cast of all white men (and a couple of women to play their wives). In this episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues, Salome B Smith and Imani Pearl Williams joins host, Salisha Thomas. Imani Pearl Williams (she/her) toured with Pippin and Pretty Woman and made her broadway debut in 1776! Salome B Smith played Crystal in the off Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors and also made her broadway debut in 1776! We welcome them both to Black Hair in the Big Leagues!

Follow them @imanipearlz @siloam_12

Host, Salisha Thomas (Weiss) @salishathomas, www.salishathomas.com

Also, if you're interested in trying Innersense Organic Beauty as mentioned in the first half of this episode, click HERE and use code SALISHA15 to get 15% off your first order!

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BHBL: A Haircare Line That Will Change Your Life Mar 16, 2023

Greg and Joanne Starkman join the lineup for Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas making history as the show's first guests who are not people of Color. And it is not by mistake. Greg and Joanne are the creators of a product line called INNERSENSE Organic Beauty. Innersense is all clean ingredients, there isn't a bunch of crap in it, and you get a LOT of bang for your buck. The bottles seem to last longer than expected; Because they aren't watered down, a little goes a long way! Innersense works on ALL hair types. Just ask Salisha, it's her new favorite product. By using it regularly, you truly can reach your curl potential. It brings the BEST out of them!

Check out their website for more information on the company and to buy your own! Want 15% off your first order? Click here and use the code: SALISHA15 at check out. We hope you love them as much as we do.

Follow Innersense on IG @innersenseorganicbeauty and go to their website: at www.innersensebeauty.com.

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas

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BHBL: The Curl Doctor: Shai Amiel Shows You How to Care for Your Curls Mar 10, 2023

The One and Only Curl Doctor, Shai Amiel graces us with his presence this week on Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas. Shai has been in the business of hair (and in particular, CURLS) for over 20 years and it shows in his work. Getting in his chair at Capella Salon in Studio City is the equivalent of seeing the original Broadway cast of Hamilton: it feels like a moment in time, like history, a PRIVILEGE. Enjoy this episode as he humbly breaks it down on how to care for your tresses and how he decides which products are good (and healthy!!) to use on hair (hint: he prefers products with CLEAN ingredients) and which ones are big no no's and why. But don't just take our word for it here. Go and check out his page on Instagram @shaiamiel. He's got a ton of before and after photos that will have you scrolling for hours. (And yes, your host, Salisha Thomas is on there too.)

At the time of this recording, host Salisha Thomas had JUST been introduced to the world of "Clean" hair products. And now, as of today many months later, she swears by Innersense. If you'd like a 15% discount on your first order of Innersense products, go to www.innersensebeauty.com and type in code: SALISHA15 at checkout.

For 15% off your first order of Innersense Organic Beauty products, CLICK HERE! and type in code SALISHA15 for 15% off your first online purchase.

Follow Salisha @salishathomas or go to www.salishathomas.com

Follow Shai @shaiamiel or get an appointment at Capella Salon in Studio City, California. (TIP: Make your appointment in ADVANCE!)

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BHBL: Hamilton's Marja Harmon Walks You Down the Aisle Feb 23, 2023

From the 'And Peggy' cast of Hamilton on tour, Marja Harmon who's currently starring as Angelica Schuyler visits Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas! Marja is a light! A graduate of USC, she was in God Friended Me, Jessica Jones, and Madam Secretary. She's toured with The Lion King as Nala, and was on Broadway in Cat On a Hot Tin Roof and The Book of Mormon. Yes, she is the bomb.

Follow Marja on Instagram at @missmarjaharmony or check her out on the Hamilton tour currently touring the country!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or on www.salishathomas.com.

Black Hair in the Big Leagues is a part of The Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Get Your Butt Kicked with Broadway Badass: Michelle West Feb 16, 2023

Broadway Star and founder of BIA, Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes Michelle West to the show!!!!! She's performed in Regional Theaters all over the country including Sacramento Music Circus, Walnut Street; She's Toured with Memphis and Aladdin, and made her Broadway debut in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.

During her time as a Swing in Tina, she built a Fitness and Nutrition Coaching Business called BIA. Check her out at www.bianutrition.com/connect and on instagram @chelleywest.

Check out host, Salisha Thomas at @salishathomas!

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BHBL: Get the Perfect Afro with Kendall Dorsey Feb 09, 2023

We welcome stylist to the stars, Kendall Dorsey to Black Hair in the Big Leagues today! Kendall Dorsey’s cliental includes Saweetie, Kelly Rowland, Alicia Keys, Solange, Lizzo, and so many more and recently created Rihanna’s iconic “traditional Aaliyah inspired sweep” style. Kendall is an expert on curly hair and and a Color Wow ambassador!

Follow Kendall on IG @kendalldorsey1

Follow Host Salisha Thomas @salishathomas

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BHBL: Women Supporting Women with Andrea Bowman Feb 02, 2023

Emancipation, The Watchmen, Lovecraft Country and now Oscar shortlisted celebrity stylist Andrea "Mona" Bowman stops by Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas. Other credits of Andrea's include working with Regina King, Anna Kendrick, working on Respect, Gifted, Just Mercy, Women of the Movement and Pitch Perfect 3.

In this episode, Andrea discusses how her love for hair and helping others with their found her. She talks about hair health, and how when she was an underclassmen in college, one of the upper classmen teamed up with her forming a badass collaboration.

Follow her Oscar journey on IG @andreamonab

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or on www.salishathomas.com

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BHBL: The Fire This Time Festival with Kelley Girod Jan 20, 2023

Joining this week's episode on Black Hair in the Big Leagues with Salisha Thomas is Kelley Nicole Girod. Hailing from Louisiana and with an MFA in playwriting from Columbia, she's the founder and executive director of Obie award winning Fire This Time Festival. It's a huge writing factory for new works by black writers of all genders. And she’s the editor of the anthology: 25 plays from the Fire this time festival— a decade of recognition, resistance, resilience, rebirth, and black theater. They’ve helped develop over 80 playwrights.

Follow @firethistimefestival and @salishathomas

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BHBL: A Deep Dive with Cendie Stanford, founder of ACEs Matter Jan 14, 2023

Cendie Stanford joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues line up with host, Salisha Thomas! She's a started a non-profit called ACE's Matter. WHAT HAPPENS TO PEOPLE IN THEIR CHILDHOOD INFORMS WHAT KIND OF ADULTS THEY BECOME. ACEs Matter is an organization that helps us understand why we are the way we are and encourages more compassion.

What is an ACE Score?

Your ACE score can help provide information about potential risks later in life.A 10 question survey about childhood experiences, derived from a 1998 research study.ACEs rarely occur in isolation and multiple ACEs increases potential health and behavior risk factors. Events you witnessed, Other toxic stress inducing events...

Our bodies and brain store trauma until we find healthy ways to regulate, rehabilitate, cope and heal.Your ACE score increases the likelihood of potential risks, but its not an absolute.Experiencing trauma at any age can lead to Post Traumatic Disorder or PTSD.

Check out https://www.acesmatter.org/about-aces-matter1.html for more information.

And follow @aces.matter on IG!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas (Weiss) on IG @salishathomas and on twitter (this is new) @thesalishashow

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BHBL: 1776 Reimagined: Breaking Boundaries with Hair and Identity Jan 07, 2023

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we’re diving into the revolutionary world of "1776 Reimagined: Breaking Boundaries with Hair and Identity"! I had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing this groundbreaking Broadway show, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This isn't your traditional "1776" – it’s a diverse and powerful revival featuring an all-female, trans, and non-binary cast.

Join me as I chat with the phenomenal Oneika Phillips and Liz Mikel about their powerful performances and the incredible impact of portraying historically white male roles. Ever wonder what it feels like to bring such iconic characters to life in a new, inclusive way? You’re about to find out!

We also dig deep into the significance of hair and identity on stage and how these talented actors stay true to themselves while making bold statements. This is theater like you've never seen before – raw, real, and resonating with today's social conversations.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us as we explore the magic of Broadway, the brilliance of "1776," and the beauty of authentic self-expression. Let’s celebrate the power of representation and the voices that are breaking boundaries!

#HairIdentity #HairInTheater #StageHair #HairRepresentation #HairOnStage

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

10:59 - How Hair Can Be Revolutionary

15:26 - Playing a Role Originally Written for a White Man

22:05 - Spoiler Alert: Original Script of 1776

28:31 - Inspiration Behind the Show

31:13 - Find the Guests on Social Media

32:40 - Thank You for Watching

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Inside Broadway’s 1776 Revival: Tiffani Barbour’s Story Dec 30, 2022

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we dive Inside Broadway’s 1776 Revival: Tiffani Barbour’s Story! Join Salisha Thomas as she sits down with the incredible Tiffani Barbour, a Baltimore native who's done it all – actor, singer, director, and even a comedian! Ever wonder what it's like starring in a groundbreaking Broadway revival? Tiffani shares her journey from VEEP and Law and Order to her current role in 1776, playing Andrew McNair and the Congressional custodian.

Discover how this all-female, non-binary, and trans cast transforms a classic show into a powerful, relevant statement. Plus, don’t miss out on her personal anecdotes about her hair journey, swinging roles, and performing on stage. Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the vibrant world of Broadway, performance, and Tiffani's stellar career. Let’s go!

#1776BroadwayShow #1776Exclusive #Broadway #Inside1776 #SalishaThomas

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:15 - How is 1776 Going

9:05 - Your Bravo Debut

11:08 - Swinging

14:10 - Hair Journey

18:50 - Hair and Makeup on Set

27:40 - Where to Find Tiffany

28:41 - Closing

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J. Daughtry on Broadway, Community, and Giving Back 💖 Dec 23, 2022

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, I’m ecstatic to bring you a heart-to-heart with the incredibly talented J. Daughtry! 🎭✨ Ever wonder what it’s like to be on Broadway, give back to the community, and balance a whirlwind career? You’re in the right place!

Join me, Salisha Thomas, as I chat with J. Daughtry, a Broadway superstar who's graced the stage in "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical," "The Color Purple," and "Ain't Too Proud." 🌟 From his days touring with "Motown," "Miss Saigon," and beyond, Jay’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into his work with Broadway Cares, the Artist Relief Fund, and his very own "Helping Hands" initiative, which supports fellow artists during tough times. 💖

Jay’s not just a phenomenal performer—he’s a true community hero. Whether he's lighting up the stage as Teen Angel in "Grease" or lending a helping hand, his story will move you. Don’t miss this chance to hear about his passion for giving back, his love for the Broadway community, and his incredible journey.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us! 🎉👑

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #Jdaughtry #HelpingHands #BroadwayCares #Community #Grease #Inspiration #Performance #MusicalTheatre

#MtownTour #SalishaThomas #BankerToActor #ActorInterview #BroadwayInsights

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:40 - How are you

5:20 - Broadway vs Tour

7:18 - What is Helping Hands

10:56 - Are you going to be an actor forever

13:38 - Money is energy

16:25 - Where do you see yourself in 20 years

20:00 - What makes you feel seen

26:40 - Do you feel like a man or a black person first

29:38 - Are you spiritual

31:33 - Our generation is returning to our roots

34:23 - Where to Find J. Daughtry

34:41 - What J. Daughtry is Grateful for Today

36:17 - Outro

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BHBL: The Illusion of Time with Dawn L Troupe Dec 19, 2022

Dawn L Troupe joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues with Host Salisha Thomas. An actor, singer, artist mother, director, writer, and producer who has performed at just about every major regional house in the United States including but not limited to ART, Cal Shakes, Joes Pub, Hill Barn, Berkeley Rep, and Theatreworks, to name a few. And now Dawn has made her Broadway debut in the revival of 1776!

Salisha here! Dawn is truly the gem of the earth. Dawn Troupe was there when I got my Equity Card back in 2014 in my first professional show, Once On This Island at Theatreworks in the Silicon Valley. She played Mama Euralie and was the most nurturing, loving, warm, and inviting soul--on stage as well as off stage.

Follow Dawn on socials at www.dawnltroupe.com and IG @dawnlt

Follow Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or www.salishathomas.com

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BHBL: Paving Your Own Path with Gisela Adisa Dec 09, 2022

Gisela Adisa from 1776 on Broadway joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues lineup with host, Salisha Thomas. Gisela is a Broadway, television, commercial, and voiceover actress. Some of her stage credits include the National Tour of Sister Act, she made her Broadway debut in Beautiful the Carole King Musical, and was nominated for an Ovation Award for her performance as Eartha Kitt in Lights Out: Nat King Cole, and at the time of this recording has been killing it in 1776 on Broadway as Robert Livingston.

Gisela is a star, currently killing it at life, and we can't wait to see what she does next!

Follow Gisela Adisa on IG @imgisela.

Follow host Salisha Thomas on IG @salishathomas

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BHBL: FAT HAM'S Nikki Crawford and Adrianna Mitchell Jul 21, 2022

Nikki Crawford and Adrianna Mitchell join this week's episode on Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas! They are currently starring in the FAT HAM playing at the Public Theatre in New York City. Get your tickets Here.

Nikki Crawford graduated from Carnegie Melon has been all over TV, film, and theater. She's performed live from regional houses across the country and has been on television in Criminal Minds, Pretty Little Liars, Malcom in the Middle, and let's not forget Martin, Living Single, and A Different World to name a few!

Adrianna Mitchell graduated from Spellman and American Conservatory Theater. She's an actress, writer, and director. She's been on Blacklist, Bull, The Good Fight, Queens, Harlem's Kitchen, and Snowfall, and more!

Follow them at @nikkicrawford917 and @adriannamitchell_.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and www.salishathomas.com

FAT HAM is a co-production between The Public and National Black Theatre, and reinvents Shakespeare’s masterpiece Hamlet with a black, queer, and southern twist. It explores questions of identity, family, and trauma in a delectable comic tragedy directed by The Public’s Associate Artistic Director Saheem Ali.

The show stars Marcel Spears (CBS’s The Neighborhood) as the show’s modern day Hamlet– Juicy, a queer, Southern college student. Set at a backyard BBQ complete with Southern soul food , this is NOT your typical Hamlet retelling (it even ends in a drag performance). But it’s an important, thought provoking play that I hope you’ll come check out.

Nikki Crawford plays Tedra (based on Hamlet’s Mother Gertrude) and Adrianna Mitchell plays Opal (based on Ophelia) and they are wonderful, fun, and integral parts of this retelling.

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BHBL: Playwright and Performer: Roger Q. Mason Jul 07, 2022

Roger Q. Mason (Playwright) (they/them) joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas. They were recently touted by The Brooklyn Rail as "quickly becoming one of the most significant playwrights of the decade." Their playwriting has been seen on Broadway at Circle in the Square (Circle Reading Series); Off and Off-Off-Broadway at MCC Theatre with Carnegie Hall, La Mama ETC, New York Theatre Workshop, New Group, The Fire This Time Festival, Dixon Place, American Theatre of Actors, Flea Theatre, and Access Theater; and regionally at McCarter Theatre, Center Theatre Group, Victory Gardens, Chicago Dramatists, Steep Theatre, Serenbe Playhouse, Theatre Rhinoceros, Open Fist Theatre Company, EST/LA, Coeurage Theatre, Rogue Artists Ensemble, Son of Semele, and Skylight Theatre. Roger is an honoree of the Kilroys List; the Chuck Rowland Pioneer Award; the Fire This Time Festival Alumni Spotlight; and the Hollywood Fringe Festival Encore Producers Award. Mason’s films have been recognized by the British Film Institute Flare Festival, Lonely Wolf International Film Festival, SCAD Film Festival, AT&T Film Award, Atlanta International Film Festival, Webby Awards, and Telly Awards. They've screened at the British Film Institute Flare Festival, Lonely Wolf International Film Festival, Inside Out Festival (Toronto), SCAD Film Festival, Hollyshorts, Outfest and Outfest Fusion, Rio LGBT Film Festival (Brazil), Bentonville Film Festival, Outshine Film Festival, and the Pan African Film Festival. Mason serves as an associate producer on Discovery+ docuseries BOOK OF QUEER and researcher for Freeform/Disney’s HOW WE GOT HERE. Mason holds degrees from Princeton University, Middlebury College, and Northwestern University. They are a member of Page 73's Interstate 73 Writers Group and Primary Stages Writing Cohort, the co-host of Sister Roger's Gayborhood podcast with Lovell Holder, and the lead mentor of the New Visions Fellowship and Shay Foundation Fellowship.

Roger Q. Mason will premiere their much-anticipated play Lavender Men with Skylight Theatre Company and Playwrights’ Arena in Los Angeles, August 6-September 4. Directed by Lovell Holder,this genre-pushing play courageously re-imagines one of America’s most beloved historical icons, President Abraham Lincoln, through a queer person of color’s storytelling lens.The production will also be accessible to a national audience via streaming performances beginning August 20. Visit www.LavenderMenPlayLA.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

Follow Roger @rogerq.mason

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas

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BHBL: Tony Award Nominated Actor from Paradise Square: Sidney DuPont Jun 25, 2022

Tony Nominated actor, Sidney DuPont graces Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas! He is an actor, dancer, a cinematographer, director, and award winning screenwriter. He has toured with Memphis, a Chorus Line, and Beautiful as well as doing the Australian and Broadway companies of Beautiful and is now starring in Paradise Square on Broadway for which he has received his very first Tony Award Nomination. Sidney DuPont is kind, fun, talented and radiates "Black Boy Joy." And when he is on stage, he pours every ounce of his soul into every role he takes on.

Follow his journey on Instagram at @sidneydupont! You're going to love him!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas on her blog at www.salishathomas.com or on IG @salishathomas

Black Hair in the Big Leagues is part of the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: From the Hadestown Tour: Tyla Collier Jun 16, 2022

We recorded with Tyla Collier literally in 2020 and the audio got damaged. BUT WE HAVE FINALLY RECOVERED IT!!!! SO SO happy to share this episode with you all. Tyla is an actor, singer, dancer, and an award winning Voiceover artist and audiobook narrator. Tyla is such a sweet, talented, and kind spirit in the Broadway community and currently on tour with Hadestown! Follow her journey at @tyla_collier and check out www.tylacollier.com.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or read the blog at www.salishathomas.com. Black Hair in the Big Leagues is part of the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Tony Award Winning Actress for Paradise Square: Joaquina Kalukango Jun 02, 2022

Powerhouse Joaquina Kalukango joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host Salisha Thomas this week! She is currently starring in Paradise Square, bringing down the house 8 times a week playing Nelly. The show is fantastic. She is PHENOMENAL. She was also in the Godspell Revival, Hollar if Ya Hear Me, The Color Purple, and the original Broadway cast of A Slave Play. Not to mention When They See Us, Mahalia, One Night in Miami, and Lovecraft Country.

Follow her journey @joaquinakalukango!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and read the blog at www.salishathomas.com.

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BHBL: Tony Nominated Director of Skin Of Our Teeth: Lileana Blain-Cruz May 26, 2022

A graduate from Princeton AND Yale, Lileana Blain Cruz joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas. Lileana is the director of The Skin of Our Teeth on Broadway which also happens to be her Broadway directorial debut!!!! Go to the Beaumont Theatre at Lincoln Center in NYC to catch the show and follow Lileana @LileanaBlainCruzofficial or her website at www.lileanablaincruz.com.

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or her blog at www.salishathomas.com.

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BHBL: Broadway Swing Love: Keirsten Nicole Hodgens from Six the Musical May 24, 2022

HAILING from Six the Musical on Broadway, Keirsten Nicole Hodgens joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues lineup with host, Salisha Thomas. From Ball State University and swinging half the cast of Six on Broadway, she is black, queer, and a whole vibe. Follow her immediately @shespeaksmusic.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or read the blog at www.salishathomas.com.

Black Hair in the Big Leagues is part of the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: From Exception to the Rule: AMANDLA JAHAVA May 13, 2022

AMANDLA JAHAVA joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues with Host, Salisha Thomas. She is a first generation Kenyan-American actor, writer, and director based out of New York. She passionately creates and advocates for African stories from an African perspective for African people. She will be seen in Issa Rae’s new HBO show "Rapsh!t". Other credits include: Ava Duvernay’s "DMZ" and "How to Make Love to a Black Woman" produced by Lena Waithe. Regional theater credits include: Geffen Playhouse, Arizona Theater, Denver Theatre Club. She received her MFA in Acting from the Yale School of Drama ‘19 and a BFA in Acting from CalArts.

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Inside The World of Comedy with Morgan Weed Apr 21, 2022

Salisha sits down with fellow castmate of Once Upon A One More Time, Morgan Weed, to discuss what it's like originating a role, navigating the world of comedy, and life outside of the theater.

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BHBL: A sitdown with host of Meeno Podcast, Safiya Vanterpool Apr 21, 2022

For over a year now, Safiya Vanterpool has worked as an assistant on Black Hair in the Big Leagues in the promotions department, and we are SO PROUD that she has recently created her own show called Meeno, available wherever you listen to podcasts!

Follow her @Safiya.anika_ and @meenopodcast

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or read her blog at www.salishathomas.com.

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A Conversation with Will Swenson: Broadway Star Apr 12, 2022

Will Swenson is a Broadway veteran and icon. He sits with Salisha and discusses his on-stage and off-stage life.

Will appeared on Broadway in Lestat, 110 in the Shade and Brooklyn. Off Broadway, he played the role of Stacee Jaxx in the musical Rock of Ages but did not go on to perform the role on Broadway because he was offered the starring role of Berger in the Broadway revival of Hair. He played Sir Sagramore in Camelot at Lincoln Center and Chris in the second national tour of Miss Saigon.

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36: Trust Your Instincts with Ashley Chiu Apr 05, 2022

Ashley Chiu is a screen and stage Actress, Singer, and Dancer. Born and raised in San Francisco, she holds a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. She is seen in the hit production Once Upon A One More Time.

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BHBL: Knowing Your Worth with Felicia Curry Mar 31, 2022

Star of the upcoming Queens Girl in the World offBroadway in New York City, Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes Felicia Curry. Felicia's regional resume includes Les Mis, The Color Purple, Sister Act, Caroline or Change, Ragtime, Scottsboro Boys, Matilda, Nina Simone: Four Women which she won a Berkshire Theatre Critics award for. She's been nominated 9 times for the Helen Hayes Award, bringing home the title with her performance as Lela in Lela & Co.

Felicia Curry is currently starring in Queens Girl in the World on Theatre Row in New York City. Wise, grounded, present, connected, Felicia shares with host, Salisha Thomas how she has worked consistently, how she stays true to who she is on and off the stage, and gives advice on what to do if there is someone out there who feels an industry pivot in their spirit.

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35: Finding Love On and Off the Stage with Stephen Brower Mar 29, 2022

Stephen Brower is a New York-based writer and performer. He's worked on Broadway in Anastasia and Once Upon a One More Time with Salisha.

He sits with Salisha for this candid talk on all things Broadway life.

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BHBL: Interview with The Book of Mormon's Shanel Bailey Mar 24, 2022

She plopped out of college at Syracuse University and plopped onto Broadway in the Book of Mormon in 2019 just prior to the Broadway shutdown. Shanel Bailey is wise beyond her years, genuine, kind, and lovable! She talks about her Jamaican roots, Passion Twists hairstyle, feeling the freedom during this pandemic to play with fun colors in her hair, her experience in the Book of Mormon. Such a pure spirit, you can hear the smile in her voice.

Follow Shanel on IG @simply_shanel or on Tik Tok @simply.shanel

Follow Salisha @salishathomas

Support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on IG @blackhairpodcast or on Patreon!

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34: Briga Heelan on Her Journey Back To The Musical Stage Mar 22, 2022

Briga Heelan is an actress and comedian. She is known for her work on the sitcoms Cougar Town, Ground Floor, Undateable, Love, Great News, and B Positive.

In this podcast episode, Briga sits down with Salisha Thomas after a successful run together in the hit Britney Spears inspired musical, Once Upon A One More Time.

Listen in as Briga details how she made the successful transition back from TV and film to her love of the stage. She also discusses how she won the role of Cinderella in the musical and what challenges she had to face during the COVID pandemic.

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BHBL: Broadway’s Housso Semon Mar 17, 2022

Upon beginning this podcast in 2020, this episode was one of the first episodes recorded with the beautiful, genuine, talented Housso Semon. Housso Semon has been on Broadway in Beautiful the Carole King Musical, The Lion King, and Girl from the North Country. She’s one of the most grounded souls you’ll ever meet. We love her!!!

Follow Housso @houssosemon.

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33: The Energy You Give Is the Energy You Receive with Selene Haro and Isidro Rafael Mar 15, 2022

Selene Haro and Isidro Rafael are affectionately known as Selidro. They are, together, an integral part of the musical hit, Once Upon A One More Time.

Growing up believing that dance classes were too expensive, Selene took a leap when she found out an audition for a junior team would be free of cost. Expecting nothing but checking off her first official dance class, this is where her dance journey began, summer of 2010 where she became an official member of this team.

Pieces fell into place as she continued to walk this path, and along the way had mentors and peers contributing to the set of tools she carries today. She’s had the opportunity to share her craft in various parts of the world.

Selene has been a part of Building Block since 2014 starting as a coordinator, and in 2017, she became a private instructor for the studio.

Isidro Rafael is a dancer, choreographer, instructor and director residing in San Diego, CA. Coming from a sport heavy background, Isidro decided to begin formal training at age 19, transferring the athleticism and creativity he learned from soccer to dance. His dance background consists of classes, workshops and camps from different instructors at studios all over Southern California. He has adopted the different ways of movement, teaching styles and leadership tools he’s received since then.

Ultimately, Isidro hopes to move people through his art, connect with different communities he meets through his career and inspire the next generation to create an even better world for future generations to come.

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BHBL: How Shereen Ahmed Embraced Her Natural Curls on Broadway 🌟 Mar 10, 2022

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, I'm beyond excited to introduce you to the incredible Shereen Ahmed! Ever wonder how you can embrace your natural curls on Broadway? Shereen spills it all, from making her Broadway debut in "My Fair Lady" to appearing on NBC's "New Amsterdam." We dive deep into her journey as the first Egyptian American on my show, and how she proudly rocks her natural curls on the big stage.

Shereen's story is filled with inspiring moments and brave choices, including how she overcame societal pressures to embrace her true self, both on and off stage. We also chat about representation, identity, and the power of authenticity in the theater world. Plus, we get into the nitty-gritty of her hair-care routine and wig prep that keeps her natural curls looking fabulous.

If you’re a Broadway fan or just love hearing empowering stories, you won’t want to miss this! Hit subscribe and come on the ride. Let’s celebrate Shereen's journey together! 🌟

#Broadway #saliciathomas #shereenahmed #naturalcurls #myfairlady #newamsterdam #NBC #representation #authenticity #swing #performance #SnowWhite #Cinderella

#HairIdentity #BroadwayStar #SalishaThomas #HairInspiration #ShereenAhmed

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:36 - Pandemic Impact

3:54 - My Fair Lady Tour Experience

6:02 - Egyptian American Identity

9:24 - Hair Journey Insights

17:13 - Egyptian Heritage Challenges

23:11 - Achieving Recognition Without Many Credits

32:05 - First Impressions in Auditions

35:00 - Ensuring Performer Safety

37:03 - Wig Preparation Tips

40:32 - Hair and Stage Door Appearance

43:59 - Outro

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32: The Ups and Downs of Pursuing Your Dream with Joshua Johnson Mar 08, 2022

Joshua Johnson is a Broadway performer currently seen in Once Upon A One More Time. He sits down with Salisha to discuss his journey into the performing world from a very young age and what it was like to get his first professional gig. Joshua has danced alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. This exciting dialogue will bring you into the world of following your dream and remaining passionate even during the most difficult times.

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BHBL: Playwright Elizabeth Addison Mar 03, 2022

Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes Elizabeth Addison! Elizabeth is a writer, composer, lyricist and playwright, artist, activist, and entrepreneur. During the pandemic, she started an interview series called Chasing Beads, and she was recently accepted in the Muse mentorship program where she's mentored by Broadway composers and musicians. In this episode, Salisha Thomas and Elizabeth Addison sit down and discuss Elizabeth's journey to writing, her play: This is Treatment, and taking up space on the "other" side of the table as a Black woman.

Follow Elizabeth @elizabeth.addison3

Follow host, Salisha @salishathomas

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31: Loving Life On and Off The Stage with Tess Soltau Mar 01, 2022

TESS SOLTAU graduated from The King’s Academy in 2005 where she played numerous lead roles in the TKA Theatre Company.

Tess is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, with a BFA in Acting and Musical Theatre.

Tess’s Broadway credits include, Far From Heaven (Playwrights Horizons), alongside Kelly O’Hara, The Addams Family, where she played the role of Wednesday, Into the Woods, where she starred as Rapunzel opposite Donna Murphy and Amy Adams, and most recently in Wicked, where she stunned audiences as the fabulous Glinda.

Her television credits include True Detective, NCIS: New Orleans, The Good Fight, White Collar, Law and Order SVU. Tess was also featured in the film Paterno (HBO, dir. Barry Levinson), Love and Other Drugs (dir. Edward Zwick).

Tess is also the co-founder and co-owner of New York City’s puppy boutique, Hound and Tail.

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BHBL: Stars of Broadway's American Utopia: Angie Swan and Tendayi Kuumba Feb 24, 2022

Currently on Broadway now until April 2, 2022, American Utopia is a smash hit! And stars: Angie Swan (Guitarist) and Tendayi Kuumba (Dancer/vocalist) visit Black Hair in the Big Leagues as the final episode of Black History Month. These artists are a force and stand firmly in their purpose on stage and off. Tune in to this episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues with host, Salisha Thomas to soak in some inspiration.

Follow the guests on Instagram: @theangieswan and @whostendayi. www.whostendayi.com.

Go to www.salishathomas.com for more information!

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30: Taking Your Rightful Place on The Great White Way with Matt Allen Feb 22, 2022

Matt Allen is a veteran of the Broadway stage. His story and journey are mesmerizing and something you don't want to miss. His Broadway credits include: Escape to Margaritaville, Something Rotten, Honeymoon in Vegas, The Wedding Singer, Oklahoma!, and Annie Get Your Gun.

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BHBL: Fashion Model Janine Tondu Feb 17, 2022

A fashion model featured in Halston, Prada X Elle, Project Runway and more, Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes Janine Tondu to the stage! In this episode, Janine shares her journey to becoming a fashion model, how she found her confidence, and a few surprising fun facts about herself.

Janine has the most beautiful natural hair and rocks it all over her instagram page. Follow her @janinetondu.

Follow host Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and get tickets to her solo concert happening February 20, 2022 @6pm EST live in Brooklyn at Uncommonly Studios. In person and virtual tickets available at www.salishathomas.com.

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29: Once Upon A One More Time Directors and Choreographers w Keone and Mari Madrid Feb 15, 2022

Keone & Mari Madrid are an award-winning choreographer & director team, as well as husband, wife & parents. Their ability to tell stories through detailed choreography has permeated beyond the dance world and into theatre, music, film and online platforms. While coming from a dance background, their approach to utilizing all human movements, alongside their inventive dance vocabulary, has allowed their work to connect to many.

Notable work includes: Disney’s animated short “Us Again,” Broadway theater shows, starring/choreographing Justin Bieber’s “Love Yourself” music video, BTS, Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, Flying Lotus & Kendrick Lamar, nominations for best choreography at the MTV Video Music Awards and the UK Video Music Awards, Cirque, “World of Dance,” “So You Think You Can Dance,”“Dancing With the Stars,” Netflix, Nike, Timberland, Beats By Dre, several Kpop artists, viral videos, multiple champions at major dance competitions and more. Their online work has amassed over billions of views.

Most recently, Keone and Mari co-created, directed and choreographed their first full length nominated Off-Broadway theater dance show, “Beyond Babel” which was a New York Times pick and nominated for 2 Drama Desk Awards. They are also directing/choreographing the Broadway-bound “Once Upon a One More Time,” and choreographing the Broadway-bound “The Karate Kid” musical. Keone & Mari recently announced their choreographic involvement in a new Disney animated short film, “Us Again,” told entirely through music and dance. The film is now streaming on Disney+.

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BHBL: From A Journal For Jordan and Skeleton Crew, Chante Adams Feb 11, 2022

Hot off the press from filming in A Journal For Jordan, starring opposite Michael B. Jordan and directed by the one and only Denzel Washington, Chante Adams joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Some of her credits include Bad Hair, The Photograph, and she is now making her Broadway debut opposite Phylicia Rashad in Skeleton Crew.

This is your host, Salisha Thomas dropping in to say I recorded this episode with Chante last week and saw Skeleton Crew TONIGHT (Feb9th, 2022) on Broadway. It was phenomenal. The entire cast was just phenomenal. And I absolutely couldn't take my eyes off of Chante! She was so funny, and real and genuine. Skeleton Crew is on Broadway for limited engagement until (my birthday) February 20th. So go see it now and let's cross our fingers for an extension!

Such a great night of theater. Follow Chante on instagram @chantee__

Also, stop by my website to get tickets to my 30th Birthday Concert happening live in Brooklyn on February 20th at 6pm EST. Not in NY? It's streaming virtually! Follow me on IG @salishathomas

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28: The Beauty of Taking Ownership of Your Life with Belinda Allyn Feb 08, 2022

Belinda Allyn is a Broadway actress and singer. She graduated from Oklahoma City University with a degree in Music Theatre where she studied voice with Frank Ragsdale. Her credits include Maria in "West Side Story" at the Tony Award-winning Paper Mill Playhouse, "Allegiance" starring George Takei, and "The Radio City Christmas Spectacular." For more information visit www.belindaallyn.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @belinda_allyn.

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BHBL: Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst Feb 03, 2022

This episode was originally Episode 5 on Black Hair in the Big Leagues recorded on October 16, 2020 with Cheslie Kryst, the reigning Miss USA at the time. Cheslie has sinced passed away and this episode is in honor of her. She made an impact on so many and will be deeply missed.

The video of this episode is available on www.salishathomas.com

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27: The Power of Slowing Down with Diana Vaden Feb 01, 2022

Diana Vaden is a New York artist, innovator, and creative. She has appeared on Broadway and is currently performing in Once Upon A One More Time.

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BHBL: Bonus Episode - A Message From Your Host, Salisha Thomas Jan 27, 2022

Hey Y'all, It's me Salisha your host of Black Hair in the Big Leagues. I thought I'd just sit down and have a talk just you and me this week. It's something I've been wanting to do. I keep it short and sweet but I hope you enjoy and can relate. Let me know your thoughts friends. Shoot me a message on my insta @salishathomas or leave me a review so I can read it. I have so much love for you my dear listener and hope you continue to be inspired.

I'm excited to embark on Black History Month with you all and I hope you help me celebrate my birthday either in person or virtually when I put on my next concert to ring in my 30s. Here's a link for tickets:

https://www.musae.me/salishathomas/experiences/1263/salishas-30th

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26: Life on Stage: Living A Life of Passion with Matthew Tiberi Jan 25, 2022

Join Salisha and her guest, Matthew Tiberi, as they discuss life in the theater. Matthew is a swing in the current production of Once Upon A One More Time.

Matthew Tiberi made his Broadway debut as a swing in Finding Neverland in 2015. He was previously part of the original cast of the national tour of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat starring Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young and directed/choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler. Regional credits include: Singing In The Rain (Don Lockwood, STONC), Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Adam/Felicia, Fiddlehead Theatre Company), Mary Poppins (Von Hussler, NCT), Mary Poppins (Policeman, KC Starlight), Footloose (Chuck Cranston, The Fireside), CATS (Mungojerrie, WPPAC), 9 to 5 (Bob Enright, MGR).

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BHBL: Co-Hair Designers from COMING 2 AMERICA Jan 20, 2022

Stacey Morris (@staceykutz) and Carla Farmer join Black Hair in the Big Leagues. Both have been on the shortlist for the Oscars twice for their Hair designs in Coming 2 America and Dolemite. Host Salisha Thomas sits down with the two of them to talk about their personal hair journeys and professional journeys in the Television and Film industry.

Stacey Morris has been nominated for five Emmy Awards and four MUAHS Awards (Makeup Artist and Hair Stylists Guild Awards). She was also the Hair Department Head for Coming 2 America, and her other film credits include Sylvie’s Love, Bad Hair, Gone Girl, Norbit and Dreamgirls. She is also the standing barber on several TV series including America's Funniest Videos, Black-ish, and The Voice.

In 2020, Stacey was Oscar-shortlisted and nominated for a Critics Choice Award for her work on the film Dolemite Is My Name. Stacey’s styles executed in Dolemite Is My Name appeared on exhibit in September 2021 at the newly curated Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. In 2021, Stacey made the Oscar shortlist again for her Afro-punk inspired hairstyles featured in Coming 2 America.

Carla Farmer was recently shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling as the co-hair department head of Coming 2 America starring Eddie Murphy. She made the Oscars shortlist for the first time in 2019 as the co-hair department head of Dolemite Is My Name, for which she was also nominated for a Critics Choice Award. Carla’s styles executed in Dolemite Is My Name appeared on exhibit in September 2021 at the newly curated Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.

In addition to film, Carla earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Hairstyling for her work as Brandy’s hair stylist in Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

Her work can be seen across a wide range of programming from dramas such as Netflix’s hit series 13 Reasons Why and ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, to comedies such as Workaholics and Scary Movie 2, and live shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live and America’s Got Talent.

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25: From Laughter and Humor to The Broadway Stage with Brooke Dillman Jan 18, 2022

Brooke Dillman is an American actress and a comedian who was born and brought up in Kansas City, Missouri. She is known for Wrecked (2016), Superbad (2007), and Bob’s Burgers (2011).

She is as well famous for her motherly role in the sketch comedy show’ Blue Collar TV.’ She also portrayed diverse characters in ‘The Wayne Brady Show,’ ‘Good Morning, Miami,’ ‘The Office,’ ‘Six Feet Under.’ Brooke has also appeared in several feature films including ‘National Lampoon’s Barely Legal,’ ‘Superbad,’ ‘Kickin’ It,’ ‘Good Luck Charlie,’ ‘Wrecked.’

Brooke united with comedian, Larry the Cable Guy in his film ‘Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector.’ She also appeared on the YouTube Comedy- Mystery series ‘A bear and Honey.'

Listen in on how she made her Broadway debut in Once Upon A One More Time.

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BHBL: JADE PHILLIPS Jan 13, 2022

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24: Gaining Confidence on Stage and In Life with Amy Hillner Larsen Jan 11, 2022

A Chat with Amy Hillner Larsen

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with your favorite host, Salisha Thomas. Today we are excited to have Amy Larsen in our show. She is from New York and is married to Kevin Larsen. Since she graduated from Wagner College, where she studied Theatre, Amy has worked with various people and organizations, such as the Royal Caribbean Cruises and the Priscilla Queen of the desert-the musical.

Larsen previously starred in the off-Broadway production “A Musical About Star Wars,” which was set on Staten Island, “The Marvelous Wonderettes" and “Newsical The Musical.” She also played Tracy Turnblad in “Hairspray” aboard the Oasis of the Sea and performed in the 2012 Tony Awards. Find out more about Amy in this conversation.

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:26] What’s in for you in today’s episode

[01:36] How she’s coping with the rehearsals

[04:47] Her confidence on the stage is uncomparable

[08:18] There’s great fulfillment in doing what you love confidently

[09:42] Once given an opportunity, give people the best you can

[11:09] Amy’s secret to sustainability in the industry for many years

[16:48] Getting back to shows after covid is very comforting

[19:27] How she keeps her mind calm during auditions and shows

[21:56] Amy’s feelings about Britney Spears

[26:08] Rapid fire for Amy. What did Amy choose?

[33:13] How you can connect with Amy

Connect with Amy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahillarsen/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/amyhillner/

About The Salisha Show;

Thank you so much for listening to the Salisha Show. It is a weekly Podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

We're available for streaming anywhere - at home, in the car, or wherever you are.

Connect with me through; Spotify, Castbox, etc.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5- star review and share with your friends.

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BHBL: Super Swing Extraordinaire: DIANA VADEN Jan 06, 2022

Broadway's Diana Vaden has been seen in Tootsie as well The Music Man at The Kennedy Center and Mack & Mabel at Encores in NYC. Currently in the pre-Broadway run of Once Upon a One More Time at The Shakespeare Theater Company, Diana shares her faith, hair tips, and positive outlook on life. Oh, and she just got married!! Follow her journey on Instagram @dianavaden.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas at www.salishathomas.com or @salishathomas

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23: Living in Abundance with MiMi Scardulla (Backstage at the Britney Musical) Jan 04, 2022

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with your favorite host, Salisha Thomas. Today we are excited to have MiMi Scardulla in our show. MiMi is a performer originally from Louisiana.

She has been seen Off-Broadway in Gigantic, We are the Tigers, and on Kristin Chenoweth's For the Girls. She has worked as an assistant to Chase Brock, Lorin Lotarro, and Spencer Liff. She is also Kristin Chenoweth's Associate Choreographer.

MiMi is ecstatic to keep working on Once Upon a One More Time when this "Intermission" is over! All she wants is to spread glitter, self-love, and joy to everyone she meets. Find out more in this conversation.

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:36] What’s in for you in today’s episode

[01:28] How we met MiMi Scardull

[02:19] How MiMi got her personality being a kid

[05:31] MiMi’s loves making people feel special and included

[06:42] Experiences as a dance instructor and why her dance classes are different

[14:41] How she won the auditions of Pre-Broadway Run in Chicago

[23:15] MiMi’s self-rebirth; nothing was impossible

[24:00] Why you should strive to live a life of abundance

[25:48] Meaning of “To chat a path for other MiMi’s.”

[31:35] Connect with MiMi today and follow her journey

Connect with MiMi

Website: https://www.danceitout.com/mimi-scardulla

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimidulla/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/mimi.scardulla/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimi-scardulla-08b550120/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mimiscardulla1

About The Salisha Show;

Thank you so much for listening to the Salisha Show. It is a weekly Podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

We're available for streaming anywhere - at home, in the car, or wherever you are.

Connect with me through; Spotify, Castbox, etc.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5- star review and share with your friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BHBL: Broadway playwright, DOUGLAS LYONS Dec 30, 2021

Douglas Lyons is a playwright, actor and more on Broadway. He writes with an unmatchable conviction and is trailblazing wherever he goes. He was an actor in Beautiful the Carole Ming Musical, Book of Mormon, and toured with Rent, Dreamgirls, and Book of Mormon. He now writes for television and film and recently opened on Broadway: Chicken and Biscuits starring Norm Lewis and Michael Urie.

We cannot get enough of Douglas! Follow his journey at:

@chocolatehipster!

Follow host SALISHA THOMAS. @salishathomas

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22: Raymond J Lee: A Backstage Conversation with a Working TV, Voiceover and Broadway Star Dec 28, 2021

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with your favorite host, Salisha Thomas. Today we are excited to have Raymond J. Lee on our show. Ray is an actor/singer who resides and works from New York City. He has appeared on Broadway, television, film, and voiceovers.

Ray’s Broadway credits include; Aladdin, Anything Goes, Groundhog Day, Honeymoon in Vegas, and Mamma Mia! Film/TV credits include Marriage Story, Ghost Town, "Succession,” “Billions,” “Red Oaks,” and “Smash.”

Voiceover credits include projects for Dreamworks, Netflix, and Penguin Random House. He is a proud RTVF graduate from Northwestern University. Find out more in this conversation.

Tune in!

.

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:28] What’s in for you in today’s episode; Raymond J. Lee

[01:24] How Raymond Lee is doing

[03:11] How different has the arts industry been before and after COVID

[03:53] Ray’s experiences as a voice-over artist

[06:23] How long he has been with One More Time and his experiences

[11:28] How Ray’s Asian-American race fits into the industry

[13:00] Balancing between family and his work. Get some tips

[14:36] A quick rapid-fire

[18:06] Connect with Ray today and follow his journey

Connect with Ray

Website: http://www.raymondjlee.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/raymondjlee

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/RaymondJLeeOfficial/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RaymondJLee

About The Salisha Show;

Thank you so much for listening to the Salisha Show. It is a weekly Podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

We're available for streaming anywhere - at home, in the car, or wherever you are.

Connect with me through; Spotify, Castbox, etc.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5- star review and share with your friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BHBL: Kings Crowning: Darrell Spencer’s Journey to Empowering Black Hair Dec 23, 2021

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this video, we're diving into an incredible hair transformation journey with none other than Darrell Spencer! 🎉 Join me, Salisha Thomas, as I chat with Darrell, the inspiring founder of Kings Crowning, a black-owned hair care brand that's taking the world by storm.

Ever wonder what it takes to go from a fabulous fro to a sleek fade? Darrell spills all the tea on his personal hair care journey, from his curly fro days to the clean, stylish fade he rocks today. We talk about the passion and drive behind creating products designed specifically for black men’s hair, and how King’s Crowning came to life from his need for the perfect hair product.

Darrell's story is truly inspiring - growing up with humble beginnings, instilled with a relentless work ethic from his parents, and teaching himself the ropes of entrepreneurship through resources like YouTube. You'll hear about his commitment to creating high-quality hair care products that cater to the unique needs of black hair, and how his brand is making waves in the industry.

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate this young black entrepreneur's success and learn more about his innovative products. 🌟 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts below!

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #OnceUponaOneMoreTime #Swing #Performance #SnowWhite #Cinderella #DarrellSpencer #KingsCrowning #BlackHairCare #HairJourney

#DarrellSpencer #KingsCrowningFounder #ProtectiveHairWear #BlackOwnedBusiness #BlackNaturalHair

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:02 - How did you get here

4:52 - What was the first product

8:44 - How did you get to shampoo

17:06 - What does it mean to be a black man

25:52 - What makes Darryl feel seen

27:30 - How to get waves

30:02 - Darryl's favorite product he's made

32:48 - Where to Find Daryl

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21: From West Side Story to the Broadway Stage with Jennifer Florentino Dec 21, 2021

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with your favorite host, Salisha Thomas. Jennifer Florentino joins me in this wonderful episode as we chat about Spielberg’s West Side Story.

West Side Story is an American musical drama film directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins. It is a film adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same name, which tells the story of a forbidden romance between a young American street gang member from Manhattan who falls in love with a Puerto Rican girl from the "wrong side of the tracks."

Jennifer Florentino is an actress known for Isn't It Romantic (2019), West Side Story (2021), and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017). She is also the manager at Lakey Wolff. Find out more in this conversation.

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:29] Meet Jennifer Florentino

[02:54] About Jennifer’s latest movie project; West Side Story

[07:02] When was Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story filmed

[07:58] It’s still unbelievable to me!

[08:58] Why is ‘West Side Story’ important to Jennifer

[10:14] Jennifer's racial makeup and her hair management practices

[20:14] Jennifer’s fiancee and how they met

[24:42] Pandemic and acting experiences

[28:52] ‘Things I’m grateful for today.’

[29:48] How to connect with Jennifer

Connect with Jennifer Florentino

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/jennifer.florentino.14

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferflorentino/

About The Salisha Show;

Thank you so much for listening to the Salisha Show. It is a weekly Podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

We're available for streaming anywhere - at home, in the car, or wherever you are.

Connect with me through; Spotify, Castbox, etc.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5- star review and share with your friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BHBL: Interview with Broadway's Amber Iman Dec 16, 2021

Amber Iman has solidified her place on the Broadway map not just because of starring in Soul Doctor and Shuffle Along, and not just for slaying in Hamilton as Peggy/Maria Reynolds, but because she's a trailblazer, fearlessly leading the way for Broadway activism and equality by being one of the founding members of the Broadway Advocacy Coalition. She's not only fearless but also hilarious, fun, raw, unfiltered, and real!

Follow Amber on Instagram @AmberIman_ or check out the best website ever (the theme song is written and sung by Amber on her home page) at www.amberiman.com

Follow Salisha Thomas on Instagram @salishathomas or check out her blog at www.salishathomas.com

Want some podcast perks? Follow and support us on Patreon:

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20: The Wonder Weirs: Big-Dreaming Broadway-Bound 8 Year Old Sisters Dec 14, 2021

Meet Mila Weir and Andrianna Weir.

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with your favorite host, Salisha Thomas. Mila Weir and Adrianna Weir, two sweet kids, join me in this exciting episode. They are actors, models, competitive dancers, and sisters. They play the role of Little Girls for the World Premiere of Britney Spears Musical, Once Upon a One More Time. Find out more in this conversation.

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn:

[00:06] What’s in for you in today’s episode; meet the Weir sisters

[01:10] We are barely seven and eight years old

[01:27] How long have the sisters been performing

[01:58] Why acting is fun for Mila

[02:18] Sweet projects done

[03:06] The Weir sisters are also dancers!

[03:36] Strong family support has been very key

[04:10] How the two got into performing

[05:11] Source of their personality

[06:18] The very first show

[07:54] I have a dream

[09:28] Nervousness is a sign of incompetency

[10:40] My favorite Disney princess

[14:46] Favorite hairstyle

[16:02] Our greatest inspiration

[17:55] How to follow the journeys of Mila and Andrianna

Follow our Journey

Website: https://thewonderweirs.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shepnailsit/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/cupcakeandtutus/

About The Salisha Show

Thank you so much for listening to The Salisha Show. It is a weekly podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

We're available for streaming anywhere - at home, in the car, or wherever you are.

Connect with me through; Spotify, Castbox, etc.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5- star review and share with your friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BHBL: Curl Secrets from Miss Teen USA 2019 Kaliegh Garris Dec 09, 2021

Hey y’all, what’s up? 🌟 In this video, I’m chatting with the amazing Miss Teen USA 2019, Kaliegh Garris, about her curl secrets! Ever wonder what it takes to maintain those gorgeous, natural curls? Kaliegh spills all the tea on her curl journey, from childhood to pageant queen and beyond. We dive into her favorite products, styling tips, and the challenges and triumphs of embracing her natural hair. Her story is not only inspiring but also packed with practical advice for anyone looking to rock their natural curls with confidence. Hit subscribe and come on the ride – you won’t want to miss this! ✨👑 #CurlSecrets #KalieghGarris #MissTeenUSA #NaturalHairJourney #HairTips #BlackHairInTheBigLeagues

#CurlyHairJourney #CurlyHairTips #CurlyHair #CurlyHairStyling #MissTeenUsa

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:22 - How are you doing

2:09 - Embracing Natural Hair

6:26 - Competing in Pageants with Curly Hair

10:51 - Curl Evolution

14:22 - How to Finger Coil

17:14 - Keeping Hair Moisturized

19:22 - Deep Conditioning Tips

24:14 - Best Hair Products

26:30 - Haircuts for Curly Hair

31:29 - Who was your inspiration

31:51 - Role Models

36:55 - Making History as Miss Teen USA

40:54 - Faux Hawk Styling Tips

43:28 - Doing Your Own Hair

47:54 - Final Thoughts

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19: Backstage at the Britney Musical: An Entire Season with the Cast and Crew Dec 07, 2021

Season Two of The Salisha Show will be dedicated to Once Upon A One More Time, the Broadway musical inspired by the music of Britney Spears. Salisha is currently in rehearsals for that show and will welcome as her guest for each episode a cast or crew member from the anticipated musical!

You'll hear backstage stories while they are in rehearsals and get an inside look behind the curtain of what it's like to bring a show to Broadway.

Listen in as Salisha talks about her plans for Season Two of The Salisha Show, 'Backstage at the Britney Musical!;

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BHBL: Sabrina Victor’s Journey: From Pageants to Natural Hair Queen Dec 02, 2021

Hey y’all, what’s up? In this episode, I sit down with the fabulous Sabrina Victor to discuss her incredible journey from pageants to embracing her natural hair as a true queen! 🎉 Ever wonder what it takes to shine on stage and stay authentic? Sabrina shares her story, from competing in Miss USA 2020 as Miss Massachusetts USA to moving to New York for her MFA graduate acting program at Columbia. 🌟

Join us as we dive into her experiences, her natural hair journey, and the powerful message behind her platform, #SpeakYourTruth. This chat is full of inspiration, laughs, and so much heart. 💖

Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we celebrate black beauty, authenticity, and the magic of storytelling. Whether you're into Broadway, pageants, or just love a good success story, this one's for you! 🎭👑

Remember to like, comment, and share your thoughts below! Let's keep the conversation going about the importance of representation and self-love. 🌈✨

#Broadway #SalishaThomas #NaturalHair #SabrinaVictor #MissUSA #BlackHair #SpeakYourTruth #Pageants #BeautyQueen #ColumbiaMFA

#HairTransformation #AfroHairJourney #MissUsa #ActingCareer #SalishaThomas

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:35 - Where is Sabrina K. Victor right now

3:06 - Will you audition while you're at Columbia

6:07 - Miss Massachusetts USA 2020 vs 2019

9:18 - What was going on internally when you decided to big chop your hair off

12:19 - What happened when you showed up to the house

14:55 - Does our hair change how we feel

19:07 - What is moose and how do you use it

21:27 - Competing with natural hair

25:00 - Who are your inspirations

26:24 - How do you walk like that

29:58 - Were you ever a teen pageant

31:10 - What has the response been since being Miss Massachusetts USA

36:17 - Speak Your Truth

39:32 - Outro

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18: Trevor The Musical Producers Open Up About Life Behind The Musical Nov 30, 2021

On today’s episode of The Salisha Show, host Salisha Thomas sits down with two of the producers of the new off-Broadway show Trevor the Musical: Josie Bray and John Ambrosino. John and Josie recall transitioning from artists to producers and how they became a business partnership in addition to lifelong friends. They discuss what goes into producing a show with New York dreams, how long it can take, how to cultivate a safe environment for the actors, and how doing work that is meaningful to them makes the whole process worth it.

Josie Bray is a choregrapher, director, producer, and teacher with a heart of gold. Josie is a two-time winner of the IRNE award for Best Choreography of a Musical. She was the Co-Artistic Director of the Animus Ensemble, a Boston-based theatre company, for five years and also served as the Executive Director of Green Street Studios, Center for Movement and Dance. In New York City, Josie choreographed several off-Broadway plays. Josie has worked on several national tours and on the 2009 Broadway Revival of Ragtime. Josie has also directed at the Lyric Stage Company of Boston and teaches Movement for Actors at Emerson College. She is currently a senior Partner at U Rock Theatricals in New York City, where she most recently produced the new musical off-Broadway: Trevor the Musical.

John Ambrosino is both an actor and a producer. He has toured nationally with Les Miserables as well as performed regionally in Company (IRNE Award Nomination for the role of Robert), Into the Woods, On the Town, Avenue Q (Elliot Norton Award Nominee for his role as Princton/Rod), and Rent. He is a Senior Partner at U Rock Theatricals in New York City and most recently produced the new musical off-Broadway: Trevor the Musical.

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BHBL: The Public's Cullud Wattah Nov 25, 2021

Showing now until December 12th at The Public theater in New York City, Cullud Wattah stars Alicia Pilgrim and Lauren F. Walker join host, Salisha Thomas on this week's episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues. Get your tickets and see them live NOW!

https://publictheater.org/productions/season/2122/cullud-wattah/

Follow Alicia @atribecalledalicia

Follow Lauren @lovevolvz

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas

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17: Friends, Leadership, and Broadway with Sara Sheperd and Sara King Nov 23, 2021

Sara Sheperd and Sara King were there. As two of the original cast members in the Broadway smash hit, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, they were both there the day Salisha made her broadway debut on that stage.

Sara and Sara join Salisha for an intimate dialogue around getting to live your dream, being the lead title role in a production, and the fine line between holding a leadership position and holding a friendship.

The two Sara's are going out on the road across the country as they bring their skill and talent to the touring production of Beautiful. Don't miss it!

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BHBL: Inside Zuri Washington's Life: Hair, Broadway & Personal Growth 🎭 Nov 18, 2021

Hey y’all, what’s up? Dive into "Inside Zuri Washington's Life: Hair, Broadway & Personal Growth 🎭" with your host, Salisha Thomas! In this episode, we chat with the fabulous Zuri Washington, straight out of graduating with a BFA. She booked the starring role in the international and national tour of "Bring It On" and has graced numerous Off-Broadway and regional productions. 🌟 Ever wonder what it's like to balance the world of Broadway with personal growth? Zuri spills all, from her unemployment struggles during the pandemic to her journey with wigs and natural hair care. Plus, hear heartwarming stories about babysitting and the challenges of navigating hair care during these times. You don't want to miss this authentic and engaging conversation! Hit subscribe and come on the ride with us into the life of a true Broadway star! 🎭✨

#BlackGirlMagic #RealTalk #WigTips #ChildHairCare #NationalTour

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

1:49 - Unemployment

7:11 - Hair

18:04 - Do you want kids

21:09 - Why people have kids

30:00 - Your wigs are so fierce

36:30 - Auditions

40:00 - Access to young people

42:25 - Your Natural Hair Journey

52:40 - What Makes Zuri Feel Seen

53:50 - Goodbye

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16: Allowing Yourself to Live Your Absolute Best Life w/ DeLaney Westfall Nov 16, 2021

Of all the people who have ever been born, less than one percent have a natural talent for doing what they do more effectively and creatively than others. The other ninety-nine percent of the people either have to learn their habits from someone else or develop them through trial and error. Today’s episode is graced by DeLaney Westfall, a Broadway actor known for her roles in Beautiful the Musical and Kinky Boots.

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with me as I chat with DeLaney Westfall, an actor, singer, & dancer originally from St. George, Utah. After graduating with a BFA in Music Dance Theater from BYU, she went to NYC, where she has been working ever since. In August 2018, DeLaney took on the principal role of Lauren in the smash-hit Kinky Boots and finished her run in January 2019. She immediately started rehearsals for Barrow Street Theater's critically acclaimed, award-winning production of Sweeney Todd. Until recently, DeLaney starred in the Broadway production of "Beautiful - The Carole King Musical".

Tune in!

.

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:50] Meet today’s guest; DeLaney Westfall

[04:06] Why you should live with an identity that is not tied to a career

[05:47] DeLaney’s dating life

[07:06] How her wedding engagement took place

[10:53] Did her fiancee get nervous on the engagement day?

[13:44] Common worries we all have

[15:10] DeLaney’s hobbies and side hustles

[25:00] How can the unity of the United States be restored

[31:17] How to reach out and connect with DeLaney

Notable quotes

“Everybody has to live with an identity that is not attached to a career.”-DeLaney Westfall.
“When you are in alignment with your life, it should feel like swimming downstream.”-Salisha Thomas.
“Even if you had planned it, engagement will always find you as a surprise.”-DeLaney Westfall.
“Unity is the fruits of giving people an opportunity to be themselves."-DeLaney Westfall.

Connect with DeLaney Westfall

Website: http://www.delaneywestfall.com/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/delaney.westfall

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delaney-westfall-b614a936/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delaneywestfall/

About The Salisha Show;

Thank you so much for listening to the Salisha Show. It is a weekly Podcast where we have great conversations with so many fascinating people. You can get positive feelings, have tons of fun, and learn something new when you tune in to The Salisha Show podcast.

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BHBL: Celebrating A Broadway Debut with Nyla Watson Nov 11, 2021

Nyla Watson is a force of nature who just very recently BURST onto the Broadway scene in her favorite show: Waitress the Musical! Yes, Waitress is back on Broadway post-pandemic (okay, we are still sort of in this thing, aren't we?) and headlining is Sara Bareilles. Not captured in this episode, Nyla also recently made her principal debut and we couldn't be more excited for her!

Follow her at @brandnewnyla

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15: Living As Your True Self and Getting It All Done with Gabrielle Elisabeth Nov 09, 2021

It is very important to be yourself, especially in a world where everybody wants to be someone else. Being authentic to yourself involves three key facts- knowing yourself, being yourself, and sharing yourself. Once you know yourself, you will be unstoppable even in the face of adversity. You will become more confident and have clarity on your purpose. Sooner or later, you will begin making bigger contributions to the world. Today’s episode is graced by Gabrielle Elisabeth, a multifaceted and multi-passionate actor, singer, and model.

Join another conversation of The Salisha Show with me as I chat with Gabrielle Elisabeth. Gabby is an avid reader, animal lover, health enthusiast, world traveler, and actress who has appeared on Broadway. She was also featured in a co-starring role on the Emmy Award-winning TV show The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Most recently, Gabrielle portrayed the role of Darlene Love in the Tier 3 Broadway Workshop, The House of Dream.

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn about;

[01:30] Meet today’s guest; Gabrielle Elisabeth

[05:36] Gabrielle’s tips on how to clear debts within a very short period

[12:20] Differences and crossing paths in relationships are inevitable, but love wins

[19:08] Doing things by yourself vs. outsourcing from other people

[22:26] How Gabrielle got into the idea of self-sustainability

[28:24] Gabrielle’s body fitness

[31:10] Coping with the covid pandemic in the acting industry

[39:21] Doing service for free just for networking vs. earning money with the service

[44:34] How to reach out and connect with Gabrielle

Notable quotes

“Until you acknowledge something, it is not tangible and you cannot attack it.”
“Loving genuinely is not a walk in the park. It is a choice that you have to make.”
“Taking good care of your health is the first line of defense.”
“You don’t know everything; you can always learn something new from others."

Connect with Gabrielle Elisabeth

Website: https://www.gabrielle-elisabeth.com/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/gabelisabeth/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/itsgabrielle_e

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabelisabeth/

Blog: https://www.illuminatingradiance.com/

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BHBL: How to get the most defined curls with Bisserat Tseggai Nov 04, 2021

Bisserat Tseggai is my ultimate Curl Crush. Listen to this powerful woman break it down on how to kick butt at life and look the bomb doing it.

Follow her on IG @bisserat

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or read the blog at www.salishathomas.com

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14: Learning To Ask For What You're Worth with Andrew Weiss Nov 02, 2021

Sometimes when your gut tells you that something is what you need to be doing or is where you need to be going, it will not make sense to anybody else. It’s important to listen to your intuition, follow what your gut is telling you, and act on it. Don’t ask for people’s permission; this can block your path to success. Share your experience after acting on it. That is what Andrew Weiss did, and he’s grateful he acted on that intuition. It helped him meet the most special person in his life.

If you are curious to find more about the journey and learn how you can move the world around you, join the conversation with Andrew Weiss, an entrepreneur and a sales coach who helps people make more money for their brand. Andrew is passionate about assisting people to see their value and worth to help them make more money faster.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[04:30] Andrew’s career backstory

[07:09] Why you should always ask for what you are worth

[10:14] Andrew’s career in virtual and live events

[10:58] How Andrew and Salisha met

[16:41] The importance of listening to your intuition and following your gut

[18:26] Salisha and Andrew’s experience in their first meet up

[23:25] Andrew’s perfect day overview

[27:12] Andrew’s dream and what he desires to deliver to the world

[33:44] Andrew and Salisha’s secret sauce in their relationship

[39:45] How to reach out and connect with Andrew

Notable quotes

“If you get a yes too quickly that means you’re not charging enough for your services.”
“If you never ask, the answer is always no.”
“Give pause before making some rush decisions.”

Resources Mentioned

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Connect with Andrew Weiss

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theandrewjweiss

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/theandrewjweiss

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewweiss

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BHBL: DEON RELEFORD-LEE Oct 28, 2021

This week, Black Hair in the Big Leagues welcomes Deon Releford Lee to the show! Y'all, he is full of gems. Deon is an actor who can be seen on television, in commercials, and in theater in NYC. From the Beautiful the Carole King Musical on Tour, Deon knows how to sing from his soul. And with a head full of beautiful hair, he knows a thing or two about curls. Check him out at

https://www.deonsbohemia.com

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BHBL: Founder of INAHSI NATURALS: RHONDA MARSHALL Oct 21, 2021

Rhonda Marshall, the CEO, and founder of Inahsi Naturals, Chemist, Educator, and overall QUEEN of healthy hair!

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13: Black Art Matters: Speaking Out Against Your Convictions with Chester Gregory Oct 19, 2021

We have the power to stand for what matters to us and others. But sometimes, it’s easy to stay quiet and not say anything even when we ought to. Everybody’s convictions are different, but you’ve got to stick with yours. Your voice matters, and standing for what’s important to you is being your authentic self.

In this episode, we are joined by Chester Gregory, an award-winning Broadway veteran and artist. Chester has made numerous television appearances and his Broadway show credits include Motown, Dreamgirls, Tarzan, Shrek, Cry baby, and Sister Act.

Chester has also created his own One Man Show, and he has recently been spotted opening the Tony Awards. During the episode, Chester shares his journey and experience as an artist to provide you with life lessons and tools that make your world a better place.

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:17] Chester's career backstory

[02:14] How Chester got on the Tony Awards

[03:48] The story behind “Black Art Matters” writing on Chester's jacket

[06:47] Advocating for self and sticking with your conviction

[11:39] Chester's journey in the art and support that positioned him to success

[15:39] What makes Chester feel seen in his career

[17:13] About Chester’s hair and Miss Jessie’s hair product

[21:49] Why Chester prefers wigs while performing

[23:39] Chester's perspective on facial hair

[25:49] How Chester dealt with haircuts during show tours

[27:56] About Chester's Tik-Tok videos

[32:41] What Chester is grateful for and what he’s looking forward to

[33:36] How to reach out and connect with Chester

Notable quotes

“Be authentic to yourself and stand with what's important to you.”
“Your voice matters, stick by your convictions.”
“People understand the intention behind what you’re doing.”

Connect with Chester Gregory

Website: https://www.chestergregory.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chestergregory/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ChesterGregory

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BHBL: World Renowned Soprano: Julia Bullock Oct 14, 2021

Featured on today's episode, Salisha chats with classical performer who performed all over the world, artist resident at the Met at San Francisco Symphony, Grammy-nominated and has a heart for social activism, world-renowned soprano Julia Bullock.

Julia shares that she has been able to work but it has shifted more towards recording and no longer just focuses on performing. In some aspects of her career, she's already not shifting away from performing but starting to include more curating. And also developing relationships with various artist organizations to helping them think about what their goals were and are, and how to satisfy them for any aspirations that they have moving forward into the future. She says what's happening is temporary will not last forever.

She also mentions that this pandemic can go in a million different directions but she will have to claim humanity first. She also shares that identity is a challenging question because it has been challenging for her in the past since there are so many expectations with her multi-ethnicity or mixed heritage. She finds it fascinating that many critics feel that it is necessary to note what color or identity in some way she is. She stressed that she's so proud of who she is because it's taken some time and real consideration, healing, and self-love. She says there's nothing wrong with doubting yourself because it gets back to that self-reflection and finding it. The awareness where you can have tunnel vision of being a star in your own universe but what does that mean to be in the constellation of others.

Julia talks about painful identity issues where she shares about not knowing how to take care of her hair. They went through this period when they have growing hair and not knowing how to really brush it and how to care for it. This brings tears to her eyes because she looks at her young nieces that her sister is raising. Her sister is watching YouTube videos exploring all different kinds of products, learning how to braid hair because she wants her daughter's hair to be a source of pride for them.

So join Salisha and Julia as they talk about how Julia is coping up with the pandemic, her journey in her music career, and finding self-love and healing being of mixed ethnicity.

Connect with Julia

Website: juliabullock.com

Instagram: @_juliabullock

Facebook: Julia Bullock, Classical Singer

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12: Don't Be Better: Be Different and Be Unforgettable Oct 12, 2021

Nyla Watson is a dedicated actor, concert artist, voice coach, and competition singer in the New York City community. She is also the founder of Queen Nyla Studios, a progress-driven studio for those committed to being lifelong students and growing in their art. Today, she shares her journey of getting her Master’s Degree, to getting into Broadway, to touring with musicals such as Wicked and The Color Purple. She will also share her experience of giving her life to God and how it helped her to find who she truly is in life.

Personal Successes and Disappointments

[04:41]

Nyla recently lost weight during the pandemic and pridefully connected her weight loss journey with her fame. She had personal success during the pandemic but got disappointed when she didn’t get the chance for Broadway. She then had a conversation with her father and her mentors and coaches to talk her into gratitude for the moments she had.

Nyla’s First Thought on Musicals

[08:06]

Being a student of a catholic school, Nyla viewed musicals as a bunch of choirs from churches. She viewed musicals as singing in churches and doing gospel leads.

God’s Miracles

[11:22]

God is amazing. If you think about God ordering Moses to talk to the Pharaoh, Moses doubted himself in his words. But God immediately said that He was the one who made Moses’s mouth. Any shortcomings will be dealt with as long as God is with you.

[13:08]

Nyla’s pastor recently preached about the Green Light at the Red Sea, which is about the children of Israel getting across the Red Sea. The story encompasses the wonders of God and how He can create miracles.

Our Inner Guidance

[18:38]

The inner guidance system or the Holy Spirit that people call their instinct is real. It is the thing that tells us where to go and what to choose. The inner guidance system is the thing that helps us to live our best life. Many times, it will tell you something that logically doesn’t make sense. But when you listen to it, you will be glad that you did.

Bringing Characters to Life

[22:16]

Nyla often teaches that characters only have breath and body. Allowing characters to inhabit us is the only way for them to live. Characters live on the page until we breathe them in. It is our job to figure out the difference between you and a character, but also the similarities between you and a character so that you know what mannerisms to give them and when to move out of the way.

Embracing your Difference

[38:44]

Black women are easily identified with their hair so much. There is a level of fearlessness that Nyla has in some respects. But she is fighting for her fearlessness and freedom. After cutting her hair, Nyla knew she would be fine because her parents, too, would cut their hair. She wasn’t afraid if she would look ugly when he got her hair cut. She just knows that she is different and that she is learning to accept that everything about her is going to be different. And by embracing her difference, she knows that success will come for her.

Just Do You and Be the Best Version of You

[41:32]

Don’t be better. Be different and completely off. This notion became Nyla’s calling in the industry. She always said to herself that she was just going to do it but in a different and unique way. Her point is to not be better than the last person but to be talked about by the people after her.

[46:21]

Nyla is the only one in her family who is not included. But she is the one in the family that became an artist full time. She was able to pave the way for creativity in her family. Her cousin became a glassmaker because of Nyla’s passion.

Learn more about Nyla Watson at:

Website: http://www.queennyla.com/

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/queennyla1

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BHBL: DIAMOND ESSENCE WHITE Oct 07, 2021

From the Broadway company of Dear Evan Hansen, Diamond Essence White joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues lineup. So down to earth and cool, Diamond talks about how her actor type has shifted during the pandemic. In the video portion of this interview which has yet to be released, Diamond is rocking the bombest faux locs you've ever seen. She's keeping it real for the girls who enjoy straightening their hair, sharing how she keeps her natural hair looking shiny and healthy even while applying heat.

Since this recording, Diamond has been in short films and the reading of House of Dreams. Enjoy this episode with this shining star! And follow her @diamondessencewhite.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and www.salishathomas.com

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11: Finding Your Way Through The Eyes of God with Christian David Oct 05, 2021

In this episode, our guest is Christian David. He is an award-winning gospel artist, musical theater actor, and playwright. Today, he will talk with us about his first ever experience in Broadway and New York. Also, he will talk about performing arts theater, and his connection with God in his performances. Stay tuned! This is an exciting one!

First Experience in Times Square

[5:38]

When Christian first got to Madison Square, he went to see his first Broadway show, Hadestown. His checkout was smooth and all of his requirements, like a vaccine card, were in order. When he got in, he had a great seat on the second floor. Interestingly, he was seated next to a lady who went to high school with the show’s director.

Expectations on Hadestown Musical

[7:58]

Watching Hadestown on Broadway met Christian’s expectations. He first heard the music from Hadestown on Sirius XM, and when he finally got to listen to them personally on Broadway, his expectations were exceeded. When the cast first came out on stage, the energy in the room was electric, and their opening made everyone in the room erupt.

Energy Performing on Stage

[11:39]

Being a gospel artist, Christian takes the focus off himself and just goes into autopilot. And being in a position as a gospel artist for him is vastly different when performing in theater. So when he is performing, he tries to empty himself so that he can have a connection with God that flows through him and get all the work he needs to get done.

Performing in Theater

[13:22]

The theater is where Christian goes into flow with God where he thinks about playing his part and that he deserves to play the role. He then just instills into himself that he just has to go out there and own his performance. He knows that he has practiced and rehearsed well enough to perform.

Doing God’s Work

[14:05]

God can use us in any way on any platform. And even in those venues, Christian gives the glory of his performances to God. Even though he uses the platforms and spaces of theater, he trusts God for his performances in theater and that God will make sure that he is adequately prepared.

Christian’s Opinion on MJ’s Cancellation after his death

[16:06]

Like any other artist, Christian would hate for someone to ignore his art and everything he has contributed to his craft and the genre he was in. He will hate that if the reason for the ignorance is the mistakes he made in the past. He says that allegations that came out because of public opinion are just allegations. Nothing ever substantial is substantially proven.

The Myth about New York

[29:00]

Christian felt unsafe in New York, especially when he was opening up. One of the reasons was a myth about New York that says that you should not travel to New York alone. But when he was finally there, he was always by himself all day, but he never felt unsafe. People are walking so fast and moving where they don’t have time to bump into anybody or get into an altercation. Nobody ever tried to rob him or did anything bad to him.

Biggest Takeaway from Going to New York

[33:48]

Home Alone 2 was one of the movies that Christian and his mother would watch every Christmas. When he got to New York, he went to the places where Macaulay Culkin, who played Kevin Mcallister in the movie, walked like the world-famous plaza. The experience was memorable for him, and he recommended everyone to go there.

Learn more about Christian David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cdavidmusic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christiandavidmusic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cdavid_music

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BHBL: Black Excellence with E. Clayton Cornelious Sep 30, 2021

Featured on today’s episode, host Salisha chats with E. Clayton Cornelious who is a Pittsburgh native and a 22-year Broadway veteran. He recently received the, "Legacy Robe" for his role in the Broadway hit, Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations. In Addition to all of his theatre credits, he is a 3-year Broadway Investor/Producer and a proud member of BIV (Broadway Inspirational Voices)and a proud graduate of Point Park University.

E. Clayton shares how he wants to keep going and keep making his family proud by trying to do more and have his hands in everything. He was called the 'First Black' because he used to be the youngest in a cast and now he’s the oldest. He takes pride in sharing about his dad who taught him a lot of important things in life. His father was his coach who taught him to reach for the stars. Even not having a college degree, his dad runs businesses where attorneys are calling him for advice and served as the national president of a beverage association.

He also shares how he get into financial shape and positioned himself where he is now where he advices aligning yourself with something that you're not necessarily passionate about but something that you do well in an industry. Stick to that for a long while so that you have an upper hand in that industry. Then start funding yourself for the future, as for E. Clayton, he invested and produced which is what he wanted to do.

E. Clayton also mentioned that being a black man has actually helped him in a lot of ways. He hopes to see more black women coming up the pike because that's what the show 'Chicken and Biscuits' is all about, which is supporting black women and their superiority.

Connect with E. Clayton:

Website: eclaycorn

Facebook: eclaycorn

Twitter: @Eclaycorn

Instagram: @eclaycorn

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10: How This New Mom Found The Answers To Life and Business Sep 28, 2021

In this episode, we have invited Tia DeShazor. She is an actor, producer, coach, writer, and co-founder of BOLD, a network for black women creatives. She actively creates change on the stage and develops new projects as a lyricist in the Advanced BMI- Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop. She has also written commissioned work for Prospect Theatre’s Musical Theather Lab, New York City Children’s Theatre, Astoria Performing Art Center, and Girlhood the Musical. Today, she will share all about her experience as a new mother and the journey of accepting yourself and your uniqueness.

Doing Multiple Things

[2:05]

Tia always wanted to be an actor. But she later found out that she couldn’t keep herself in one place and be an actor. She had other desires to do and other problems to solve for herself as an actor. She then became a writer out of how she didn’t like any of the available roles.

Creative Power

[4:56]

Tia’s main offer is Creative Power, a membership program that meets weekly to discuss everything artists talk about. Most of what is spoken about in the program are all about mindset.

Privacy and Pregnancy

[9:37]

When you’re 37 and married for ten years, there’s the expectation of having a baby. Because of this, Tia became very private about her pregnancy. She didn’t have any issues about being pregnant, but it became very personal for her. She felt that her pregnancy was a very private thing in her life where she didn’t want to share it with other people.

Fighting Postpartum Depression

[23:42]

Using her encapsulated placenta helped Tia with postpartum depression. The placenta will help the mother with either postpartum depression or anxiety, so Tia recommends eating the placenta. There is a doula that makes the placenta into capsules and a tincture. The capsule is supposed to prevent postpartum depression. So the tincture is like for like six months postpartum if you need a little boost.

The Wash-And-Go Hairstyle

[26:36]

Tia has done wash-and-go with her hair since 2013. In 2008, she stopped straightening her hair and added twists and braid-outs. So in 2013, she decided to have wash-and-go because straightening her hair had a lot of work to do

Hair Products

[30:43]

Tia has ordered some other hair oil recently. She puts oil in her hair to give it a shine during the week. Putting oil in her hair has to be done every week. She puts the time into conditioning her hair and taking a shower.

How to Get the Best Results for Taking Care of Curly Hair

[35:48]

Tia always wanted curly hair. But she always straightened it. She had a relaxer growing up because she had a lot of hair growing up. Her mother would have a hard time with straightening her hair when she was young. So she took Tia to a beauty school to get her hair done and get it pressed.

Accepting her Hair

[38:15]

Tia embraced having braid outs with her hair, but after getting a braid out, half of her hair would be down in a ponytail, and the other half would be up. But with that, she never did anything about it. Tia doesn’t want to chemically straighten her hair because she doesn’t want to spend time conforming to a white male standard. She likes to be simple, even when her hair is straight.

Recommended Book

[42:22]

Tia is always reading a ton of books. One book she recommends is called “We Should All Be Millionaires” by Rachel Rogers. The book is an amazing program written by a black woman about making money. The book breaks down all of the things and misconceptions about money.

Learn more about Tia DeShazor:

Website: https://www.tiadeshazor.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-deshazor-78b6171a/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tiadeshazor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiadeshazor/

BOLD: https://www.boldnyc.org/

Learn more about Tia’s Coaching at https://tiadeshazor.mykajabi.com/sales-page

Learn more about We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers at https://www.amazon.com/We-Should-All-Be-Millionaires/dp/1400221625

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BHBL: MCKYNLEIGH ALDEN ABRAHAM Sep 23, 2021

SHOW NOTES:

Mckynleigh is a BREATHE OF FRESH AIR. Her presence, light, and joy light up a room. She's a talented actress, model, life coach, singer, and much more.

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09: Find Worthiness Within Yourself First So Your Work Shines Sep 21, 2021

Featured on today’s episode, host Salisha interviews Rachel Josefina and Susanne Puerschel.

Rachel Josefina has a podcast called Mindset in the Making. She was on Susanne’s podcast and it was divine timing that they met each other and became business partners. They created a new event where performing artists can work together and create community.

Susanne is a mother and the owner of RISE Media. A media company supporting performing artists having the ability to gather more ways of earning income by tapping into the power of media that you're discovering now in 2021. Her podcast is called Pointe to Rise.

Rachel and Susanne always wanted to do in person events and started with having small groups of workshops or having conversations to see what's really going on and how we can really support the community.

They started to talk about scarcity mindset which just was blown up during the pandemic because nobody knew how to earn money. And they are convinced that all the scarcity, the pain and abuse we're seeing in the performing arts world is from a lack of finding our unworthiness, and how can we fix that. And how can we start creating and stop chasing, and they started with everybody in their community. Giving themselves the power to use their tools to really create for others, so that they have an equal exchange of energy.

They also talk about perfectionism of being able to do your own self tape to save time and energy. No one can do it all perfectly. Trying to do it perfectly is setting yourself up to feel disappointed because it's never going to be perfect. It's not about being the perfect fit for whatever everybody else wants you to be. It's having the courage to really dig deep and that who you are is what makes you special. And that's what will set you apart and will get you the roles you want, and that's when you start creating and stop chasing.

So join in as Salisha, Susanne and Rachel talk about scarcity and abundance mindset, perfectionism and how they are helping and supporting their community.

Connect with Rachel:

Instagram – @rachel.josefina

Podcast – Mindset in the Making

Connect with Susanne:

Website: pointetorise.com

Facebook: Pointe to Rise

Instagram: @susannepuerschel

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BHBL: CHRISTIANI PITTS Sep 16, 2021

SHOW NOTES:

Christiani Pitts is an actress, singer, dancer and writer making her Broadway debut in A Bronx Tale, recently starring in King Kong on Broadway.

Products used: Heat Free Hair (her pick for human hair), and Her Given Hair

Talk about the current climate, life as a performer in COVID times, and her hair journey.

Wearing a beautiful slicked back ponytail today on the show

Christiani remembers a time in her life when her dad would take her to Stagedoor to interact with the beautiful women that looked like her. Now that she's where she wants to be, she likes to be the inspiration for the young girls who see her perform.

Talk about the future of Broadway and the ways it will change after this time in the world.

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08: How To Make Broadway Dreams Come True When The Sky's The Limit Sep 14, 2021

Featured on today’s episode, host Salisha chats with E. Clayton Cornelious who is a Pittsburgh native and a 22-year Broadway veteran. He recently received the, "Legacy Robe" for his role in the Broadway hit, Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations. In Addition to all of his theatre credits, he is a 3-year Broadway Investor/Producer and a proud member of BIV (Broadway Inspirational Voices)and a proud graduate of Point Park University.

E. Clayton shares how he wants to keep going and keep making his family proud by trying to do more and have his hands in everything. He was called the 'First Black' because he used to be the youngest in a cast and now he’s the oldest. He takes pride in sharing about his dad who taught him a lot of important things in life. His father was his coach who taught him to reach for the stars. Even not having a college degree, his dad runs businesses where attorneys are calling him for advice and served as the national president of a beverage association.

He also shares how he get into financial shape and positioned himself where he is now where he advices aligning yourself with something that you're not necessarily passionate about but something that you do well in an industry. Stick to that for a long while so that you have an upper hand in that industry. Then start funding yourself for the future, as for E. Clayton, he invested and produced which is what he wanted to do.

E. Clayton also mentioned that being a black man has actually helped him in a lot of ways. He hopes to see more black women coming up the pike because that's what the show 'Chicken and Biscuits' is all about, which is supporting black women and their superiority.

Connect with E. Clayton:

Website: eclaycorn

Facebook: eclaycorn

Twitter: @Eclaycorn

Instagram: @eclaycorn

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BHBL: Broadway Star LILLI COOPER Talks Curls Sep 09, 2021

SHOW NOTES:

Lilli is a tony nominated actress starring in Spring Awakening (OBC), Tootsie (OBC), Spongebob (OBC). She's in EVERYTHING off broadway and regional as well as on the big screen. She plays a recurring role in The Good Fight and amazes audiences everywhere she performs. She is just THAT good.

Wig prep: Simple pin curls and a hair net. Around Tony season her hair was gorgeously braided so she changed her wig prep around the hair she wanted.

For a perfect hair day: Lilli will wake up early to fully soak and condition her hair and fully air dry it.

Products:

-Tracy Ellis Ross Leave in conditioner and curl cream

-Microfiber towel and satin bonnet

-Olaplex treatment to refresh curls overnight

Talk about Hair representation on the stage, embracing natural hair, and growing up with black hair.

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07: Allow Space To Show Up Emotionally and Physically with Olivia Daniels Sep 07, 2021

Featured on today’s episode, Salisha interviews the founder of Artists in Residence, Olivia Daniels.

Olivia Daniels is a Canadian performer, director, educator, and theatre artist. She earned a BFA in Drama from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where she trained at Playwrights Horizons Theatre School and The New Studio on Broadway. She also holds a minor in Philosophy. After seven years of studying and working in NYC, Olivia recently returned to her hometown of Toronto where she currently resides while also managing a full online store.

Olivia starts with sharing her journey creating a theater company during the pandemic that was born out of a need that they saw for connection and community within the theater community. Where it started out as simply fun Zoom play readings doing what they love to do. They also share their love for what they do and not just sharing their stories about becoming a theater artist but also reflecting back on themselves which is something that is very integral to our very survival and happiness and mental health.

Olivia also cites her side business which is in SideBIz. This is her store of beads where she sells her pandemic hobbies making beaded mask chains. She dug out some old beads that she doesn’t like and styles them like chokers. She also shares that she learned this from her younger sister who is "super fashionable and cool."

Olivia finds that people should share their passions, have the interest to talk about themselves and make connections which she believes is what society is built on. It is not just for people reaching out and connecting with one another, it should come from a place of wonder, curiosity, and openness. You will find this with the right people who will then become friends, partners, and collaborators, bringing so much more joy to making things and starting things together rather than going at it alone.

So join Salisha and Olivia as they chat about Olivia’s way of supporting artists' mental health, well-being, and her online store of beads.

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06: Claiming and Owning Your Identity with World-renowned Soprano Julia Bullock Aug 31, 2021

Featured on today's episode, Salisha chats with classical performer who performed all over the world, artist resident at the Met at San Francisco Symphony, Grammy-nominated and has a heart for social activism, world-renowned soprano Julia Bullock.

Julia shares that she has been able to work but it has shifted more towards recording and no longer just focuses on performing. In some aspects of her career, she's already not shifting away from performing but starting to include more curating. And also developing relationships with various artist organizations to helping them think about what their goals were and are, and how to satisfy them for any aspirations that they have moving forward into the future. She says what's happening is temporary will not last forever.

She also mentions that this pandemic can go in a million different directions but she will have to claim humanity first. She also shares that identity is a challenging question because it has been challenging for her in the past since there are so many expectations with her multi-ethnicity or mixed heritage. She finds it fascinating that many critics feel that it is necessary to note what color or identity in some way she is. She stressed that she's so proud of who she is because it's taken some time and real consideration, healing, and self-love. She says there's nothing wrong with doubting yourself because it gets back to that self-reflection and finding it. The awareness where you can have tunnel vision of being a star in your own universe but what does that mean to be in the constellation of others.

Julia talks about painful identity issues where she shares about not knowing how to take care of her hair. They went through this period when they have growing hair and not knowing how to really brush it and how to care for it. This brings tears to her eyes because she looks at her young nieces that her sister is raising. Her sister is watching YouTube videos exploring all different kinds of products, learning how to braid hair because she wants her daughter's hair to be a source of pride for them.

So join Salisha and Julia as they talk about how Julia is coping up with the pandemic, her journey in her music career, and finding self-love and healing being of mixed ethnicity.

Connect with Julia

Website: juliabullock.com

Instagram: @_juliabullock

Facebook: Julia Bullock, Classical Singer

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BHHBL: TAYLOR IMAN JONES talks about Wigs Aug 26, 2021

SHOW NOTES:

Taylor Iman Jones is a gorgeous actress, singer, dancer, and guitarist from the original cast of Head Over Heels, Scotland PA off broadway, and a tour of American Idiot. Right before the pandemic she was IN COSTUME for Peggy/Mariah in Hamilton in LA. She is coming into the new Devil Wears Prada on Broadway as the "Anne Hathaway", and is currently back in Hamilton!

In the episode:

Exploration of different curl patterns and types

Products used:

Pattern by Tracy Ellis Ross' curl cream, leave in conditioner, and gel

Ouidad cream

Wig prep: Very consistent with prep, one pin curl up center, two on each side, two on the back, and WRAP! Wig cap (or two for more volume)

Being wigged is preferred for any and all shows by Taylor.

Talk about changes in self through the pandemic, different ways to approach the industry after these times.

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05: Salisha Reunites with her Trevor The Musical Cast Aug 24, 2021

Featured on today’s episode, Salisha chats with Isabel Kaegi, Eli Tokash (who played Trevor in the musical), Justin O'Brien and Jhardon DiShon Milton

Salisha starts the conversation by asking the guests about their experience in this pandemic where they all worked on improving themselves and were happy and confident in the work that they have been able to do, even though some of them didn’t have work for more than a year. They learned to know when and where to be in control of things by finding a silver lining with people being forced to go home and stay home and do things differently. And now looking back, they were able to identify that they changed for the better.

Salisha asks about their plans in the future and what they are grateful for. They are very much grateful for time because this pandemic has allowed people to look at time completely different. People rush a lot and it allowed them to sit still and be present in the moment. Also, they are grateful for the relationship that they have right now while one is excited to go back to school to have their masters.

Join Salisha and the rest of the gang as they chat about Broadway, how the pandemic hit them and what they are grateful for in life.

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BHBL: Ciara Alyse Harris: Queen Made of Light Aug 19, 2021

Dear Evan Hansen's Ciara Alyse Harris joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues. Ciara is one of those freaks of natures that hop from College to the Big Stage. Yes, she's AMAZING. On the stage, but also, off the stage. She has a heart of gold and an awesome blog and podcast called Queen Made of Light.

Follow Ciara on IG @ ciaraalyseharris or @queenmadeoflightthepodcast or

Check out her blog at www.queenmadeoflight.org/blog.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or at www.salishathomas.com

And Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Instagram @blackhairpodcast

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04: The Seemingly Little Moments of Passion That Create Dreams with Dominic Grijalva Aug 17, 2021

Featured on today’s episode is a professional graphic designer turned singer and songwriter, Dominic Grijalva. He is working for a decade as the Chief Design Officer in an indie record label based in New York and Seattle. He eventually turned to his first love which is music and singing. He had a lot of opportunities as a performer and a director but never had been able to do the pop thing which is something he always wanted to. Dominic shares that whatever you love to do and no matter what it is, there is a market for it. And drawing and designing is a thing that he loves and how he was being paid finding himself just doodling in his free time. He says that it all starts from having some inspiration, getting an idea, running with the idea, and taking action once receiving inspiration. He also shares that everything is born out of passion and just going for it. Dominic shares that he has no idea how he got into where he is now. He isn't even sure if he knows how to truly read music or play but when you have a passion and a desire for something, there is a way to make it happen. He stresses that if he gets struck by inspiration and motivation he needs to act on it otherwise he’s going to regret will make him feel uncomfortable which is how he felt about this music. Where writing and producing his own music is something that he always wanted to do but he thinks he was just waiting for the right one. Finally, Dominic thanks Indie Chameleon, Inc. for giving him the opportunity to write and produce his own music and the people who partnered with him in writing and producing the song. He also mentioned that he is working on about three or four songs on the same label where he is taking the initiative on lyric writing. He shares that he cannot do this all without a support of a team with who you can collaborate and work with. According to Dominic, it really helps if you've got the right people on your team that will help you and helps bring out the best of you and you in turn bring out the best in them. Join as Salisha and Dominic chat about Dominic’s journey from being a professional graphic designer who is living his dream of becoming a musician and now singing, writing, and producing his own songs.

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BHBL: Khalia Davis talks Black Hair and Taking Action Aug 12, 2021

Artistic Director of Bay Area Children's Theater Khalia Davis joins this week's episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues. A bonafide actress turned director, producer, and now artistic director, Khalia talks about taking action in the direction of your dreams, being a black woman in a space where not a lot of people look like her, and how she is standing in her truth to represent the underrepresented. Khalia's ambition and joy for life is contagious. Watch her Sunday Spotlight channel and follow her on social media.

Follow Khalia on IG @khaliashd and check out www.Khaliadavis.com for more info!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas on IG @salishathomas or www.salishathomas.com

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03: How To Take Your Entrepreneurial Vision and Make It Real with Nikki Nash Aug 10, 2021

Featured on today’s episode Salisha chats with Market your Genius author and podcast host, Nikki Nash. Nikki shares her journey of starting her own business where she tells people that they must have some blissful or naive optimism that it's going to work out. She thinks that people need that kind of blind optimism to keep moving forward because nobody has a perfect journey in entrepreneurship. Failure is something that you're going to face. But she learned something from it and she’s going to implement what she learned and it's going to be better the next time. She also thinks that people often don't realize the wealth of knowledge that they have on different things. Whether it's through life experiences or an actual career job. People may feel you have so far to go but that doesn't mean that you can't help the people that are behind you. It means you don't have to be famous to feel like you can help somebody else. It means we can start exactly where we are. Salisha asked Nikki what would she say to somebody who is trying to get into an industry that they know nothing about. Nikki answered by telling about a video she watched from a motivational speaker, Brendon Burchard. And in that video, he said that if he looks at your calendar and he can't tell what your priorities are, then they're not going to happen. Nikki goes on to say that if you want something, you focus on it right now. Listen in as Salisha and Nikki discuss her book, podcast, and her entrepreneurship journey. Connect with Nikki: · https://www.instagram.com/nikkinashofficial/ ( @nikkinashofficial on Instagram) · https://www.facebook.com/NikkiNashOfficial/ ( NikkiNashOfficial on Facebook) · https://twitter.com/nikkinashco ( @NikkiNashCo on Twitter) · https://www.pinterest.com/nikkinashco/_created/ ( @nikkinashco on Pinterest)

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02: Living Your Confident Dreams On and Off Stage with Abby Mueller Aug 10, 2021

Featured on today’s episode Salisha chats with Broadway musical actor Abby Mueller. Abby stars as Jane Seymour in the blockbuster hit Six, the musical. Abby shares several choice moments when she had to perform sick and what goes through her mind to where she can relax and doesn't change the quality of her performance. She tells what you hear in your own head doesn't match what actually people are hearing out there which is a hard moment when you have to know when to live and learn. Salisha takes the conversation about Abby’s preparation for the play coming to America where Abby shares that it was already a big hit in London but there was already a buzz about it. Then she mentioned working with the London cast where the creators are so young and new. She added that they are allowed to do their own thing within the framework that as soon as they started it was pretty fast putting the whole thing together that all of their brains are exploding, but they had rich sessions. Abby shares that the show on Carol King was a biographical, musical stick and is stylistically different. In those times there's not a lot of actual historical data so they had to fill in a lot of gaps. One of the things that's been super cool that the show and the writing does so brilliantly is show that it hasn't changed in so many years, that women are still parallels and how modern it is. And she thinks it's really clever, really smart and really awesome. Join in as Salisha and Abby talk about Abby’s musical shows and how she overcome the challenges brought by the pandemic.

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01: Standing Up For The Truth with Karen Olivo Aug 10, 2021

Featured on today’s episode Salisha chats with Tony award winner, Karen Olivo. Karen tells about her take in an article where she said that being a domestic abuse survivor she is compelled to do something that it all just felt necessary for her to exist. What she’s seeing right now is that the industry she’s in needs her to be an activist. They also talked about what Karen will do if the entire Broadway community were not going back to work. Karen answered that she’s going to have to get another kind of job but it's not going to be an acting job. Another question asked to Karen is her family upbringing because Salisha is fascinated by Karen’s confidence. She said that she did a lot of reading and training where she mentioned a book which is the Psychology of Oppression, which she’s trying to utilize these resources in real-time at all times. Karen shares that she tries to advocate for herself because when she doesn’t she will leave the door open to be mistreated. So she's constantly trying to model standing up for herself because she knows that there's someone else who probably needs it. She’s using her skillset to push over uncomfortability so that she can advocate for herself. Salisha takes the conversation to Karen being an educator where she’s been on and off for close to 10 years where has taught at a couple of colleges. She started to rethink that she might do more in private coaching where she has a handful of students that she teach now. She usually tries to get her students to turn off all other stuff and really get quiet and think about what they know to be true. And then approach all of the work from what they know that will give them a little more competence rather than trying to adopt something that they've seen. So join Salisha and Karen as they discuss Karen’s journey in standing up for the truth and coaching career that inspires a lot of her students to be more competent and unique in their own way. Resources mentioned: https://www.springerpub.com/the-psychology-of-oppression-9780826178169.html (Psychology of Oppression) by E.J.R. David Ph.D. and Annie O. Derthick PhD

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BHBL: The Original Ladies of Beautiful on Bway Weigh In Aug 05, 2021

Four of the Original gangstas from Beautiful The Carole King Musical on Broadway come together to take on this episode of Black Hair in the Big Leagues hosted by Salisha Thomas. Yasmeen Sulieman, Rashidra Scott, Gabrielle Reid, and Ashley Blanchet join this panel on all things hair. This episode was recorded right around the time of the 2020 Presidential Election, so buckle up and get ready. They've got something to say.

Follow the ladies on their social channels:

Subscribe to Black Hair in the Big Leagues on the Broadway Podcast Network and don't forget to rate and review on the platform you stream from. And if you love what you hear, support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon and earn free merch!

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The Salisha Show is coming YOUR Way: Trailer Jul 29, 2021

Are you ready for The Salisha Show? It's coming your way August 10, 2021 everywhere you listen to podcasts. Hosted by Broadway star Salisha Thomas, each episode brings you great conversations with great people. Looking for a high vibe, upbeat and uplifting conversation to power through your day? Tune into The Salisha Show!

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BHBL: Textured Hair in Politics & Pageants w/ Cierra Jackson Jul 29, 2021

Cierra Jackson is a political and Pageant Queen POWERHOUSE. When we recorded this episode in the winter of the Pandemic, she was Miss DC USA. Since then, she has officially become the longest reigning Miss DC USA in the history of the pageant. She crowned the new Miss DC and has now become the new Miss Black International Ambassador!! She's a model, an entrepreneur, has an online jewelry business which you can check out at @cierras_corner. She started a program called She Should Run which encourages and equips women with the tools needed to run for political office. She worked in the White House during the Obama Administration, is a Spelman grad, has a consulting business, was Miss DC in the Miss America Organization, and is an overall gem of a human being!

Watching her on that Miss USA stage with her natural hair is nothing short of inspiring. During this interview, Cierra talks about showing up as the Black woman she is in very corporate spaces.

Follow Cierra Jackson on IG @cierradjackson and her website at www.cierrajackson.com.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas at @salisha and www.salishathomas.com

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BHBL: Hamilton on Broadway and Tour: ERIN CLEMONS Jul 22, 2021

SHOW NOTES

Éponine in Les Misérables, Janelle Woods in Beautiful, Eliza in Hamilton
Wearing natural hair all the time makes hair inherently healthier
You can't wear it down/out everyday
Ouidad Curl Creme (first)
Ouidad Climate Control Gel (second)
Only puts a little bit in hair because she wants hair to feel a little frizzy (doesn't want crunchy look)
Deva Cut did not go well!
Took too much off when she asked for a trim; TRAGIC!
Ana Daniels (Hair Stylist) does a nice cut
Half black (dad)/Half white (mom)
Became conscious of what other people thought in middle school
Standard of beauty in America is a white women with straight hair
This is what she thought was beautiful, so she started straightening her hair
Her mom/role model was white, so she wanted to look like that
Realized to embrace hair in her first year of college
Once she got to New York, she saw all the women wearing their natural hair and got excited
Jen Waldman Studio (New York, New York)
4C (Color Conscious Character Creation) Class
Reach Out by Molly Beck
Reach Out Party
People at her acting studio kept her going during the pandemic

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BHBL: Tina on BWAY DESTINEE REA Jul 15, 2021

Amelie

Book of Mormon

Hairspray

Tina on Broadway

Co Creator of BOLD

What is BOLD?

-BOLD is a nonprofit that shoots to BUILD UP BLACK WOMEN IN THE PERFORMING ARTS FOR THE RESTORATION OF CULTURE

Broadway debut in Amelie was WILD for Destinee, but she thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Pandemic talk: Worries, stay-at-home experiences, and hope for the future!

The black hair department has been great for Destinee, filled with educated and knowledgeable help!

As a hard dancer, she’s learned that hair effects the performance aspects of theatre! (Dancing a wig off)

Hair for Amelie was pretty simple, a basic high bun for most actors!

Hair Journey:

-Grew up getting perms at a young age, but her mom did braids for everyone in her community so she often wore braids!

-In high school, she got her first sew in.

-Started perming her hair in high school, but the natural movement started to happen (based on how expensive it was and what everyone else is doing around her)

-Her true natural hair journey happened midway through school when she decided to make the big chop HERSELF!

-By the time she was a senior in high school, she was rocking her natural fro!

Destinee’s GO TO is a wash n go and some clip ins.

Products:

Zuri natural star clip ins

What is one thing Destinee is grateful for?

-Her wonderful community!

-The new iPhone update!

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BHBL: Mrs. Doubtfire on BROADWAY: LAQUET PRINGLE Jul 08, 2021

Laquet Pringle is no stranger to the Broadway Industry. She is a dancer extraordinaire, a veteran, and an educator. In this episode, Laquet keeps it all the way real with her authentic, genuine self.

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BHBL: Interview with Todrick Hall Jun 17, 2021

Salisha Thomas sits down with the one and only Todrick Hall to discuss his journey to stardom, and of course, HAIR! Todrick is a choreographer, actor, dancer, singer, songwriter and director, who first became famous as a contestant on American Idol before going viral with his online Disney re-working videos. He is an absolute trailblazer, and huge inspiration for people all over the world. Todrick slays the game on the stage and on screen, starring in Broadway shows such as Kinky Boots, Waitress, and Chicago. He has choreographed for Beyoncè and RuPaul's Drag Race, and he continues to amaze his almost two million follower fanbase day by day (or should we say SLAY by SLAY)?

Follow Todrick Hall: @todrick

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: Solo Recording Artist: DANIELLE Jun 10, 2021

Danielle is a vocalist in theater and the music recording industry. She was in Beautiful on Tour, Memphis and countless other shows. Download Danielle's new hit single: PHOTOSHOP on all streaming platforms and follow her on IG @gimmesumm.

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BHBL: Alex Newell, Star of Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist Jun 03, 2021

From the hit TV show Glee and currently starring in Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist on Hulu, Alex Newell is a force in every single room. Alex discusses advocating for oneself, starring on Broadway in Once On This Island, and gracefully explains a couple controversial topics. An outpouring vessel of love, a voice descended from the heavens, and a whole lot of personality, Alex Newell is truly from out of this world. Soak up some of his magic and tune in. From Hollywood to Broadway and everything in between and beyond, Alex Newell is a STAR.

Follow Alex on IG @thealexnewell.

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon and on IG @blackhairpodcast.

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas on IG @salishathomas

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BHBL: Vanguard Theater Company: JANEECE FREEMAN CLARK May 27, 2021

Janeece Freeman Clark is an actor, director, producer, and the founder of Vanguard Theater Company which educates the youth and also has a HUGE mentorship program matching up each student with an actor currently on Broadway. She was in the Broadway production of Urinetown but truly has a heart for education. You'll leave this episode feeling like you want to go and make a difference in the world!

Learn more about Vanguard Theater Company HERE.

Support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon and follow on IG @blackhairpodcast!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas on IG.

SHOW NOTES

JANEECE FREEMAN CLARK

She is an amazing producer, director, and artist educator. In 2015, she confounded Vanguard Theatre Company (within the company there’s a mentorship program she works with)

Urinetown on Broadway

Started her natural hair journey in college and transitioning was very challenging for her because of the thickness of her hair. Braids were a go to during this transition period.

It took her about 2 years and a ton of patience to go fully natural and remove past damage.

Being natural was very important to Janeece so that her children could grow up with the normalcy of natural hair!

Talks about some sort of “Hair Program” within other theatre programs to teach about hair prep and wig prep for the stage!

Important conversation about integrating black hair care and education into schools and programs. Is there a black women’s guide to hair care on the big stage?

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BHBL: Bonus Episode: "In the Heights" Exclusive Interviews! May 21, 2021

Our BPN Podcasters bring you exclusive interviews with cast and creatives from In the Heights, in theaters on June 11 2021. Watch the video version of this event here: https://youtu.be/py3YLSt8MSo.

Interview 1: Daphne Rubin-Vega, interviewed by Salisha Thomas

http://bpn.fm/bhbl

Interview 2: Olga Merediz and Jimmy Smitts, interviewed by Dori Berinstein

http://bpn.fm/ddb

Interview 3: Quiara Alegría Hudes (screenwriter), interviewed by Jesse McAnally

http://bpn.fm/mwc

Interview 4: Scott Sanders (producer), interviewed by Ruthie Fierberg

http://bpn.fm/wwt

Interview 5: Gregory Diaz, interviewed by Eli Tokash

http://bpn.fm/takeabow

Interview 6: Melissa Barrera, Corey Hawkins and Leslie Grace, interviewed by Alan Seales

http://bpn.fm/ttp

For more info about these podcasts and over 100 more, visit http://broadwaypodcastnetwork online, or download our iOS app (http://bpn.fm/app).

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BHBL: Caroline or Change BROADWAY: HARPER MILES May 20, 2021

She's a doula, a hair dresser, and a Broadway star. Harper Miles is down to earth and has many hidden talents. In this episode, Harpers breaks it down when it comes to Hair porosity, detangling, and finally reveals that YES, SHE BRAIDS HAIR!

Follow her on IG @harpermiles

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon HERE!

Follow Host Salisha Thomas @salishathomas

SHOW NOTES

HARPER MILES

A member of the fabulous “Beautiful” tour, starred off broadway in “Bat Outta Hell”, and when the pandemic settles, she will star in the “Caroline or change” revival on broadway!

As a kid, her mom styled her hair every day so she grew up around hair care/styling. As a braiding goddess and in order to help out with hair during the pandemic, she has helped tons of people style their hair! Although she’s not a hair stylist, she knows what works and loves to help out anyway.

Her hair journey definitely had its ups and downs, from hating her natural hair growing up to learning to embrace and love it!

Products used:

Alykai Moisture (black owned, available at Target) products: Oil, serum, leave in conditioner, and a hair parfait (her favorite product), Cream of Nature’s shampoo and conditioner,

Lock Method: Liquid (leave in), oil (sets), cream (seals it)!

Is your hair low or high porosity? After dipping a strand of hair in water, if it:

Sinks: LOW POROSITY!

Floats: HIGH POROSITY!

Wig Prep: Simply 5 corn rows all the way back!

Good conversation about New York City reopening and what’s to come! A future full of ripped broadway performers trying to fit in year old costumes seems accurate.

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BHBL: Dance Captain of the Tina Turner Musical: LEANDRA GASTON May 13, 2021

Down to Earth, real, and hilarious, Leandra Gaston graced the halls of Beautiful the Carole King Musical on Tour before becoming a full blown badass in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical understudy Adrienne Warren in the Title role. She's the real deal AND since recording this interview has cofounded a whole company with former guest Deanne Stewart. Hand clap for Black Owned and Women owned. Follow @dearseptemberevents and @leandraellisgaston.

SHOW NOTES

LEANDRA GASTON

The incredibly talented, and GORGEOUS Leandra Gaston:

-dance captain for “Tina” on Broadway!

-training to be the dance caption for “Beautiful” on Broadway!

Wearing her mid-thigh braids today

She made a big chop, which turned out to be the turning point in her CAREER. Auditioned for Beautiful on Broadway 9 times, but the time her hair was chopped, SHE LANDED IT!

Advice for women who just made the big chop:

“Don’t be afraid of accessing freedom”

The true crown is what’s inside!

She is starting to grow her hair out for the first time since the chop, and she’s excited to let it do what IT WANTS!

To keep her braids from getting ruined she wraps them at night in a braiding cap, then she takes 2 bonnets over the top for extra protection.

PRODUCTS USED:

As I Am line

Shea Moisture Shampoo

Shea African Clay Deep Conditioner

Green Olive Oil Restoration Conditioner

Wig prep:

She started with no hair, and her hair was growing out as the months went on during the run of “Tina” on Broadway, so the process grew!

Started with glued lace and moved on to flat twists and corn rows!

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BHBL: Summer on Broadway's ANISSA FELIX May 06, 2021

Anissa Show Notes:

Made her Broadway debut in Motown

In Sunset Boulevard and Summer (The Donna Summer Musical) on Broadway

TV & FILM: Pose, The Deuce, The Good Fight, 2017 movie Detroit

Salisha’s Curl Crush

Currently in her apartment in Brooklyn, enjoying quarantine with her Fiancé.

Spent most of quarantine living Little House on the Prairie style! Washing clothes in the bathtub, baking bread, walking everywhere, etc!

Hair Journey:

Started out with a relaxer every six weeks from her mom throughout her childhood all the way up until after high school. After she moved to college at the University of Mary Washington, she completely cut off all of her hair to start a healthier process! She was ridiculed, bullied and seen as different for having short curly hair in 2009, and now it’s the craze! Started using products for natural hair after that, and here she is!

Anissa has amazing curls, so how does she get them to look so good?

Products used:

Jane Carter Solutions (black owned and relatively inexpensive) scalp wash shampoo, leave in spray, and thick styling cream.

OGNX curl line shampoo(second option)

Detangling Denman/paddle-like brush to brush it out

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BHBL: Beautiful on Tour: ALEXIS TIDWELL Apr 29, 2021

Black Hair in the Big Leagues features Alexis Tidwell this week from the National Tour of Beautiful the Carole King Musical. Y'all, she is a real one. Her self worth, self confidence, grace, ingenuity, comedic skills are all off the chain. I loved talking to her because I've watched her love and embrace her hair since the day I met her.

Follow Alexis Tidwell at https://alexistidwell.com/ and on instagram @tinytidwell.

Follow host, Salisha Thomas on IG @salishathomas, @blackhairpodcast and on her blog at www.salishathomas.com

ALEXIS TIDWELL SHOW NOTES

Masters degree in choral music education

Performed on dancing with the stars, Americas Got Talent, and in Carnegie Hall

Solo debut at 54 below

Part of the Carol King musical family!

Hair journey:

As a young black girl, she grew up with plaits but at age 8 she got her first perm! Alexis went natural in 2014, after previously living with a perm and using a flat iron her whole life. When she noticed new growth after taking out a sew in, she started to transition to fully natural hair.

Products used:

Mane Choice (Do It Fro The Culture Line) conditioner, Black Caster Oil for scalp, Mane Choice leave in conditioner, Mane Choice “Doesn’t Get Much Butter Than This” hair butter, Uncle Funkies Daughter’s Curl Magic, Mane Choice Buttery Gel.

Wig Prep:

(Inspired by Traci Lee) 2 flat twists all the way around the perimeter, hair in the middle gets four pinned loose braid plaits.

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BHBL: The INSPIRING AYANA MAJOR BEY Apr 22, 2021

From theater, film, commercial, and voiceover actress, Ayana Major Bey is an INSPIRATION. Black Hair in the Big Leagues was born in part due to Ayana's influence. Always on a grind, always leveling up, Ayana Major Bey cares for her curls like nobody's business, and this episode will make you feel like you are truly one of the girls! Listen to her podcast: THE ARTIST PIVOT.

Follow Ayana on www.ayanabey.com or on IG @ayanambey!

Follow host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas or at www.salishathomas.com.

Show Notes:

Recorded a week before the election results, election/news talk is important this episode!

Uplifted Artists Company-after 12 years in the business, Ayana knows about auditioning, agencies, and show biz! Started the Uplifted Artists program to help young artists prepare auditions and understand the process.

Upcoming books about auditioning are on the way, but in the meantime, Uplifted Artists and the podcast are available. The book writing and editing is currently on the back burner, but Ayana hopes to create sections about auditioning in the pandemic (video auditions, self-taping).

Uplifted Artists Mission Statement- To educate, empower, and celebrate artists so they have no option but to thrive.

Ayana’s natural hair is BEAUTIFUL! She didn’t always embrace her texture and curl, her journey started after college. Perms were a huge part of her life since age 9 because her hair was so thick, and there was a lack of product for/education about hair. After college, Ayana went all natural for a more budget friendly hair journey!

Embracing her hair was difficult, until she realized everyone’s hair is different and unique!

Tricks/Tips for styling:

-Denman brush

-A classic twist out

-8 Piece Wash Day Kit (By Joiful Bee)

- contains satin scrunches, hair separating clips, satin bonnet, scalp massager, detangling brush, microfiber towel/wrap, heat cap, etc!

Hair for shows:

All but one show, Ayana is wigged! Her one show she didn’t wear a wig, it was a twist out. Her wig prep: if her hair is in twists, she would pin curl the twists in the front, and have two french braids in the back!

Products used:

-GO TOS: Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, Hair Masks (Maui Moisture recently), Moroccan Oil Curl Intensive Leave in Conditioner ($38), Zotos All About Curls Leave in Conditioner, Shea Moisture Coconut Oil Spray Leave in Conditioner.

Pro Tip: wash hair out with cool water!

-Other Brands used: Pattern, Eden Body Works, Maui Moisture.

What is sparking Ayanas fire right now? What is she excited about?

-Hugs from her momma and sister

-The future of Ayana! (podcast, company, voiceovers)

-Blessed to be alive and healthy, and to have the time to focus on HER during the pandemic. Without nonstop auditions, she has time to reflect and work on herself.

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BHBL: Actor Comedian: RICK YOUNGER Apr 17, 2021

Broadway's Rick Younger was on hiatus from starring in Mean Girls as Mr. Duvall at the time of this recording due to the pandemic. Since this time, Mean Girls has announced its official closing on Broadway but Rick hasn't slowed down a bit! He's been booking national commercial after national commercial, filmed for The Last OG with Tracy Morgan, as well as doing a whole lot of writing. In addition to these creative outlets, he's a professional standup comedian and...a FATHER! He's got two biracial children and his journey with his daughter's hair is insightful.

Follow Rick @Rickyounger on Instagram and Twitter and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RickYoungerPage/

.Follow Salisha @salishathomas @blackhairpodcast and her blog at www.salishathomas.com

SHOW NOTES

Dad, Actor, Comedian, Producer, Writer
National Tour of Rent, commercials, Last OG, Mr. Duvall in Mean Girls
Two kids
Rory (Son): On the spectrum with ADHD and autism
Lolo (Daughter)
Makes sure Lolo loves her natural hair
Crown Act: idea of teaching black women to embrace their hair as it is; places of employment should not discriminate for wearing hair naturally
"Hair Love" (Short Film)
Lack of representation/ability for kids to see [black] heroes/characters that look like them
Black characters are always sidekicks; revolves around the white character who is the lead/leader
Black fathers are the most active fathers of all
More he thought about not caring about what others thought, the more he didn't care about what other people thought about his hair
Went to the barbershop on a schedule before the pandemic
Started to fade temples
The #BREFFUS Show (Live)
The Rick Younger's Show
"If you had your own TV show, what would it be?"
Late night talk show host who does everything

SOCIALS:

@RickYounger on Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Periscope

Youtube.com/RickYounger

Youtube.com/RickYoungerShow

Facebook.com/RickYoungerPage

CafePress.com/RickYoungerShow

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BHBL: Healthy Permed Hair w/ Broadways's BRITTANY NICHOLAS Apr 15, 2021

Brittany Nicholas hails from Meangirls on Broadway. She was also the dance captian for Matilda and Billy Elliott. Black Hair in the Big Leagues highlights a lot of Natural Hair sisters. But this episode is special because Brittany is holding down the fort for the girls out there perming their hair. She seems to have gotten it down to a science for how to do it long term and in the healthiest way. The chillest vibe on the block, Brittany is an energy you just want to hang with!

Follow Brittany Nicholas at https://www.brittanynicholas.com/ or on IG @brittnnicholas

Follow host, Salisha Thomas at www.salishathomas.com or on IG @salishathomas or @blackhairpodcast

Become a Patreon with a subscription as little as $1 here!

Show Notes:

She is taking the time to rejuvenate during quarantine, feeling happy and healthy!

Brittany is the first guest on the show with a perm! She has permed her hair since the 5th grade, it was easier and more manageable for her dance performances and such as a kid. She continues to perm her hair every so often, with lots of deep conditioning to keep it healthy.

Products used:

Tracee Ellis Ross’ Line of products: Edge control, styling cream, mist for product build up, styling gel, etc!

Matrix Biologe Extra moisture Aloe Vera shampoo (feels like a co wash), Matrix Biologe Detangler.

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BHBL: Founder of Claim our Space: MARLA LOU Apr 08, 2021

From the Beautiful the Carole King Musical on Tour family, Marla Lou joins Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Marla is a true trailblazer, unapologetically going forth as her most authentic self. During this pandemic she founded Claim Our Space and is a VOICE and activist during a time that it's needed the most. She is a model, director, student at Fordham University, and a stylist with a bomb eye for fashion!

Follow Marla on IG @marlalou_ and @claimourspacenow and www.claimourspacenow.org

Follow Host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas @blackhairpodcast and her blog at www.salishathomas.com.

SHOW NOTES

A model, director, student at Fordham University, stylist with a bomb eye for fashion, activist, leader, and award winner!

Not only all of those things, but also a part of the Beautiful Tour fam!

Marla had a rough past with her immediate family, and rose up from those issues and GREW to find her own path in life.

Her hair has been through so many different styles, a countless amount. Long, short, curly, locks, etc! She is still trying to my HERSELF in her hair journey.

Wig prep:

Spraying hair down, pin the back down tight.. THATS IT!

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BHBL: MISS AMERICA 2010: Caressa Cameron Mar 25, 2021

We simply cannot celebrate Women's Month without uplifting my favorite Miss America: Caressa Cameron (now Jackson): Miss America 2010. Hailing from Virginia, Caressa is the first Black Miss Virginia (2009) who went on to become the 8th Black Miss America. And as expected, she is warm, gracious, eloquent, intelligent, out of this world yet somehow still giving off Girl Next Door vibes. She is goals inside and out and her presence is simply mesmerizing. She is now the Founder and CEO of Caressed by Design, a wedding planning service.

Follow Caressa: @caressacameronjackson and @caressedby design.

Follow Host Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: Bonus Episode Natasha Frater Mar 20, 2021

Currently starring in Voyeur: The Windows of Toulouse Letrec in Greenwich Village, Natasha Frater joins the Black Hair in the Big Leagues family. FINALLY, THEATER!!!! IT'S HAPPENING! Slowly but surely. In this episode, host, Salisha Thomas asks all the questions about this Pandemic-friendly outdoor show in New York City: Is it safe? How does it work? Are people masked? Natasha answers all the questions and then some. It's feeling like a glimmer of hope for the Broadway industry.

See show dates/times and get tickets here: https://unmakinglautrecplay.com/

Follow Natasha at @natashafrater and check out her website at www.natashafrater.com.

Follow Salisha @salishathomas and her blog at www.salishathomas.com

A huge thanks to The Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Vegan Mom of 4 Blogger: CHANTEA MCINTYRE Mar 18, 2021

Chantea McIntyre is a real life superhero and powerhouse. A mentor, a mother to four gorgeous children, blogger, influencer, and all around badass, Chantea is CONSTANTLY leveling up and challenging herself to get to the next level. A former Miss Fresno County, Miss Tulare, and Mrs. California, she has mastered the art of making anything glamorous and following her journey is like taking a free Masterclass in How To Conquer the World and Look Good Doing It.

Follow Chantea McIntyre: @chanteamcintyre and her blog at www.ChanteaMcIntyre.com.

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: The Good Place: TIANA OKOYE Mar 11, 2021

Making her Broadway Debut in the Cher Show in NYC, this UCLA grad is no stranger to big stages including the Hollywood Bowl (Mamma Mia, A Chorus Line) and some of the yummiest Live musicals on TV including Hairspray Live and Grease Live. In Southern California, Tiana Okoye was Disney's first Black Elsa in FROZEN: Live at the Hyperion. You can catch her on The Good Place and HBO's Silicon Valley. With the curls and body of a goddess, you're gonna wanna stalk the crap out of her.

Follow Tiana Okoye: @tee_ohhh

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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Show Notes

From Southern California
The Good Place, no stranger to the Hollywood Bowl, Grease Live, Hairspray Live, The Cher Show
Ghetto Gangnam Style
Started wearing natural hair in sophomore year of college
This is when her mom stopped paying for her hair to be chemically straightened
Did not like Brazilian Blowout
Perms burnt scalp
Not a fan of DevaCurl
Liked Cantu, Shea Moisture, and Renpure Products (these are also very affordable!!)
Recently started using Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross
These products make her hair happy!
Wanted her hair straight because it was like her mom's
Hair was not fitting for her until she begun to embrace her curls
People in the industry have told her "it's too much" and ask her to put her hair up
Didn't realize it was rude/a micro-aggression until later
First black Elsa in Frozen at Disneyland's Hyperion Theater
Liesl Tommy (Director)
Tone of women's ensemble sets the tone of the building
Barry's Bootcamp
The more we put out our hair, the less inclined people will be to pet it
Embrace your curls!
Instagram: @Tee_ohhh

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BHBL: Black History Month Bonus EP: CHERYL MORROW Feb 28, 2021

Host Salisha discusses the science and technology of Black hair with Cheryl Morrow, CEO of the California Curl Company, and daughter of its founder, world-renowned, Willie Morrow. Willie Morrow is famous for coining "the blowout" era and is the inventor of the blow attachment comb for hair dryers.

Watch 400 Years Without A Comb at the following link: https://youtu.be/B6Lg9IWFDLg

Get a glimpse of the 400 Years Without A Comb Museum at the following link: https://youtu.be/H7fRG-3dDDQ

Follow Cheryl Morrow: www.facebook.com/thecherylmorrow

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: SIMONE IMAANI: World Record for Largest Afro Feb 25, 2021

Simone Imaani (also, Simone Williams) has gone down in history for currently holding the Guinness Book of World Records for the LARGEST afro., with her afro measuring in at a whopping 4 feet and 10 inches in circumference! A fashion designer hailing from Brooklyn, this Vegan powerhouse is humble and AWE-INSPIRING. There's no better way to begin to bring Black History Month to a close than with this episode. If you're trying to grow your afro, go ahead and grab a note pad, because Simone lets you in and lays it down.

Follow Simone Imaani on IG @simonerellbess. (Follow her fashion page @simoneimaani)

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going. Click Here!

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: Broadway's Ain't Too Proud Nasia Thomas Feb 18, 2021

Salisha Thomas sits down with Nasia Thomas (no relation, by the way), where Nasia makes the poignant point that “our hair is not the problem” while discussing the issue of Black hair with our host. Nasia was a cast member of the National Tour and the Broadway cast of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and was an original cast member of Broadway musical Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, playing Mama Rose. You can see Nasia in an upcoming streaming production of the The Last Five Years February 11-25, produced by Out of the Box Theatrics at www.ootbtheatrics.com.

Follow Nasia Thomas: @nasiathomas

Follow Salisha Thomas: @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues: @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: From Meangirls and The Voice- Ashley De La Rosa Feb 11, 2021

From The Voice, to the Beautiful tour to making history as the first Black Regina George in Meangirls on Broadway, to Beautiful on Broadway to Hamilton as 'And Peggy,' Ashley De La Rosa is a the most humble, kind, force of nature you've ever met. She boldly stands in her truth and shares her thoughts on important issues. This episode was recorded many months ago and was saved for such a time as this--specifically for Black History Month. Enjoy all the gems she drops.

Follow Ashley De La Rosa on IG @ashleydelarosa and her website www.ashleydelarosa.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues on IG @blackhairpodcast and on Patreon.

Follow Host Salisha Thomas @salishathomas and her website at www.salishathomas.com

Many thanks to the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Wicked on Broadway's First Black Glinda-Brittney Johnson Feb 04, 2021

Broadway's Brittney Johnson is no stranger to making History. She first made history in Les Mis as the first black woman to play both Eponine and Fantine and the first woman to go on for both roles on the same day. And more recently, she became of the first black woman to grace Wicked on Broadway as Glinda! She is an icon and a gem and you're not going to miss what she has to say. There is no better way to kick off Black History Month on Black Hair in the Big Leagues than with Brittney Johnson.

Follow her on IG @sunnybrittney.

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues on IG @blackhairpodcast or on Patreon!

Follow Host Salisha Thomas on IG @salishathomas

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BHBL: Jagged Little Pill's DEANNE STEWART Jan 21, 2021

Host Salisha talks with Deanne Stewart, who recently made her Broadway debut on the Alanis Morrissette-inspired rock musical, Jagged Little Pill,. They discuss being "conditioned to the European standards of beauty" and finding the beauty within their own natural hair while on Broadway.

Follow Deanne Stewart:

Instagram: @deannestewart

For more information on Claim Our Space founded by Marla Louissaint, go to claimourspace.com or follow on IG @claimourspacenow

For more information on Oyin Handmade products, go to oyinhandmade.com or follow on IG @oyinhandmade

Follow Salisha Thomas:

Instagram @salishathomas

Blog: www.salishathomas.com

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues

Instagram @blackhairpodcast

Want some podcast perks? Follow Salisha Thomas on Patreon and support Black Hair in the Big Leagues to help keep us going.

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network

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BHBL: Hailing from SIX the Musical: Britt Mack and Adrianna Hicks Jan 07, 2021

From the hit musical, SIX we got Brittney Mack and Adrianna Hicks. Truly, two anointed and blessed Queens hailing from the Chicago production of Six to Broadway who are slaying on and off the stage. Britt Mack rocking her sister locks reveals that a hot comb has NEVER touched her head, and Adrianna Hicks invites us on her natural hair journey that she has fully been embracing since just recently. They are informed and enlightening and it's apparent how much love they have for one another during this episode. If you don't already know who they are, you too will also fall in love with the two of them.

Follow them on Instagram @msadriannahicks, @brittmack8, @sixbroadway and @sixthemusical

Support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon and on Instagram @blackhairpodcast

And don't forget to show your host, Salisha Thomas some love @salishathomas.

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BHBL: Beautiful the Carole King Musical-THE BOYS DRESSING ROOM Dec 31, 2020

Is it hot in here? Or is it this boy gang! Paris Nix (Hamilton), Noah Ricketts (Frozen), Josh Dawson (Cyrano, Beautiful), Jay McKenzie (Beautiful), and Dashaun Young (The Lion King, Motown, Beautiful) are heating up this episode with truth, facts, and all the tea! These men are the original group who mounted the First National tour of Beautiful the Carole King Musical and at one point also performed in the Broadway production as well. They're gorg from the inside out and give mad insight into black hair...from a men's perspective. They're hilarious, they're honest, and they're real.

You can't help but love them.

There's no better way to close out this trash bag of a year than by feeling the sense of community that these boys naturally cultivate. They hit on facial hair, finding a barber on tour in cities that don't exactly like black people, wigs vs their own hair when in a show, hair loss for men, and so much more. Not only will they make you laugh, you're going to want to stalk the hell out of them... To say they are very cute...would be the equivalent of saying 2020 wasn't THAT bad. An understatement of a lifetime.

Follow them @parisgnix @noahjrkts @onejaymckenzie @mrjoshdawson @dashaunyoung. And show your host some love @salishathomas.

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues podcast @blackhair podcast or on Patreon.

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BHBL: Recording Artist and Broadway Star, Patrice Covington Dec 24, 2020

Patrice Covington just dropped a hit single 'My Favorite Things' available now anywhere you can stream music. She has sung back up for Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, and Stevie Wonder. She was in the original Broadway cast of The Color Purple and can SING. DOWN. And she just finished recording her first series regular. Stay tuned and up to date with Patrice Here!

Follow Patrice on instagram @PatriceCovington

Support Black Hair in the Big Leagues podcast @blackhairpodcast or on Patreon HERE!

Follow Salisha @salishathomas and at www.salishathomas.com

Shoutout to the The Broadway Podcast Network (@broadwaypodcastnetwork) and to Will Tin Music for producing the theme song for this podcast: Love COD sung by Salisha Thomas.

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BHBL: Beautiful the Carole King Musical: Ladies Edition Dec 17, 2020

This episode features Kris Roberts (Little Shop of Horrors), TyNia Brandon (Lion King), Gabrielle Elisabeth (Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Kerissa Arrington Jessie (Sister Act), Rosharra Francis (EP "I'm the Girl) and is hosted by Salisha Thomas. Sharing a dressing room on Broadway at the Sondheim, these six ladies reunite for a true life Dressing Room Conversation.

Follow the ladies:

Kris Roberts IG @krisroberts22; Click Here to let Kris plan your next vacation!

TyNia Brandon IG @thetybrand

Gabrielle Elisabeth IG @gabelisabeth; Click Here for her Blog!

Kerissa Arrington Jessie IG @lovekerissa

Rosharra Francis IG @rosharrafrancis

Host, Salisha Thomas @salishathomas @blackhairpodcast www.salishathomas.com

Theme song: Love COD sung by Salisha Thomas; produced by Will Tin Music.

Support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on Patreon, HERE!

Thank you to @broadwaypodcastnetwork.

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BHBL: Interview with Broadway's Britney Coleman Dec 03, 2020

Voted one of the Top 10 Sexiest Women on Broadway, Britney has been in Beautiful, Sunset Blvd, Tootsie, and most recently Company on Broadway that was days away from opening right before the Bway shutdown earlier this year. Britney walks us through her process of how she gets those PERFECT tresses.

PS. This episode was one of the very first episodes ever recorded for this podcast.

Follow Britney on Instagram @britneycoleman

Follow Salish @salishathomas and www.salishathomas.com

Support this podcast on Patreon and IG @blackhairpodcast.

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BHBL: Dear Evan Hansen's Kristolyn Lloyd PART 2 Nov 26, 2020

Welcome back to the second part of the episode with Kristolyn Lloyd. She talks about what she does for headshots when her hair is always changing and dealing with Alopecia. She is lovable and perfect. And you should follow her:

Kristolyn Lloyd IG @kristolynlloyd

If you have questions or recommendations or opinions about Black Hair in the Big Leagues, DM Salisha on Instagram @salishathomas.

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BHBL: Dear Evan Hansen’s Kristolyn Lloyd PART 1 Nov 26, 2020

Kristolyn Lloyd originated and starred in Dear Evan Hansen as Alana Beck. In this episode she tells me about her iconic twists and how it’s been working with many creative teams that don’t understand her hair. She’s classy, down to earth, empowered, everything I want to be when I grow up.

follow her on IG @kristolynlloyd.

follow salisha on IG @salishathomas

support Black Hair in the Big Leagues on IG @blackhairpodcast and on Patreon!

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BHBL: A Thanksgiving Pause with Salisha Nov 26, 2020

Hey You All. I thought I'd take a few minutes to share a few thoughts and some gratitude. So grateful for my listeners on here. Happy Thanksgiving.

Always always feel free to shoot me a DM on Instagram @salishathomas if there's anything you'd like to share with me or if there's something you'd like for me to bring up on an episode.

If you'd like to support on Patreon, honey FEEL FREE to subscribe HERE! Your donations are so so appreciated.

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BHBL: Introducing Tina On Broadway's Geo Brian Hennings Nov 19, 2020

Geo is one of the very few Black Hair and Makeup supervisors on Broadway. He is currently the supervisor at Tina: The Tina Turner Musical and was Idina Menzel's personal hair and makeup stylist during her world tour. Geo is a fountain of knowledge on the industry and approaches the topic of Hair from the stylists's perspective. Grab and bevvy and cozy up. He's got something to say.

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BHBL: Interview with Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst Nov 05, 2020

Host, Salisha Thomas sits down with the reigning Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst days before she crowns the next Miss USA on November 9th. In addition to being a national title holder in one of the world's most renowned pageants, she is also a lawyer, correspondent for Extra TV, and runs a Fashion Blog for the working woman called White Collar Glam. Cheslie shares how she maintains her (hair) crown, her hair journey, and how she gained hair confidence before it was what it is today.

Follow Cheslie Kryst:

Instagram @Chesliekryst @MissUSA

White Collar Glam fashion blog: www.whitecollarglam.com

Follow Salisha Thomas:

Instagram @salishathomas Blog: www.salishathomas.com

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BHBL: Jessie Hooker Bailey, Waitress on Broadway Oct 29, 2020

Salisha Thomas sits down with the energetic, fun-loving Jessie Hooker Bailey (Waitress, Beautiful) and they are diving into Hair Journey. Jessie describes not even knowing where to begin with her hair, to experimenting, to ultimately becoming a natural hair bride. (Pictures available on the @blackhairpodcast Instagram page.)

Follow Jessie Hooker Bailey @jessiehookerbailey

Follow Salisha @salishathomas

Follow Black Hair in the Big Leagues @blackhairpodcast

Patreon coming soon!

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BHBL: Interview with Joanna Jones, Broadway's Hamilton Oct 22, 2020

Salisha Thomas sits down with Broadway's Joanna Jones. Joanna made her Broadway debut in Hamilton as Peggy/Maria Reynolds and is slated to open the Los Angeles touring company of Hamilton as Eliza.

Follow Joanna Jones on IG @joannaalexisjones
Follow Salisha on IG @salishathomas

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Interview with Aisha Jackson, Broadway's Frozen Oct 22, 2020

Host, Salisha Thomas welcomes Broadway's Aisha Jackson as her first guest on Black Hair in the Big Leagues! Aisha's Broadway credits include Beautiful the Carole King Musical, Waitress (OBC), Frozen (standby as the first and only Black Anna on Broadway), and is slated to star in The Britney Spears Musical One More Time upon Broadway's return.

Follow Aisha Jackson on IG @gifted2sing
Follow Salisha on IG @salishathomas

Part of the Broadway Podcast Network.

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BHBL: Welcome to the RevHairution! Introducing Black Hair in the Big Leagues Oct 22, 2020

Welcome to Black Hair in the Big Leagues Podcast! Blogger, Broadway actress, and former Miss California, Salisha Thomas, the host introduces herself and shares why she's excited about this podcast.