The Firecracker Department with Naomi Snieckus

Latest Episodes:

Firecracker Dept LIVE with Julie Nolke! Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

We hit the stage at Toronto Sketchfest with the one and only Julie Nolke, and the energy was off the charts! In front of a packed crowd of Nolke-fans, we dived deep into building your own career and the incredible power that comes with owning your path in comedy and content creation. We also explored the fast pace of maintaining an online presence and—step by step—how to start and grow a successful YouTube channel.

Julie, known for her viral hit "Explaining the Pandemic to My Past Self", shared her insights on navigating the world of digital content and how she turned her YouTube fame into an acting career. From her YouTube roots to starring in Run the Burbs (CBC), What We Do in the Shadows (FX), and Workin' Moms (Netflix/CBC), Julie has truly proven how to build a career from the ground up.

This conversation is packed with inspiration, humor, and actionable advice for anyone looking to make it in the digital age.

Ali Eisner, one of Canada's most imaginative creators. May 23, 2025

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This week on the Firecracker Podcast, Naomi sits down with the wildly talented Ali J. Eisner — award-winning puppeteer, writer, director, and musician. Their incredible credits include Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock, Supernatural Academy, Lido Tv, The Sunny Side Up Show, Nanalan', Mr. Meaty, The Lets Go Show, CBC Kids, TVO Kids & a variety of music videos for Canadian musicians they directed, produced and puppeteered.

Ali brings a unique artistry to everything they do — whether it's breathing life into a puppet, crafting a scene, or composing music. We talked about the beauty and magic of puppeteer work, the emotional depth it can hold, and the importance of staying playful in the creative process.

It's a moving, joyful, and inspiring conversation with one of Canada's most imaginative creators.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. #FirecrackerDept #AliEisner #Puppetry #StayPlayful #CreativeVoices #CanadianCreators #NonBinaryArtists #BehindTheScenes

Standing Bold in Comedy: Kathy Greenwood on Improv, Acting, and Breaking Barriers May 07, 2025

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Firecracker Department Podcast: Kathy Greenwood

In this episode, we welcome the phenomenal Kathy Greenwood—improviser, actor, and comedy trailblazer! As the first woman to receive the Canadian Comedy Award for Funniest Female Improviser, Kathy has been paving the way for women in comedy for decades. We dive into the importance of standing your ground on stage in improv, making bold choices, and trusting your comedic instincts.

Kathy shares what it was like to fully immerse herself in a multi-dimensional role in Wind at My Back, bringing depth and heart to period drama. We also get the inside scoop on the non-stop, high-energy world of Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where four straight hours of improv tested the limits of creativity and endurance.

And of course, we talk about the sheer joy of making comedy with your best friends in Women Fully Clothed, as well as her work in Ghosts and other incredible projects.

🔥 Don't miss this laughter-filled, insight-packed episode!

🎧 Listen now!

Elvira Kurt is always evolving Apr 23, 2025

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Comedy icon Elvira Kurt joins us for a powerhouse conversation about aging in comedy, staying relevant, and the fearless boldness that has defined her career. She's blazed the trail for so many comedians, proving that having something to say on stage only gets stronger with time. We talk about the courage it takes to keep pushing boundaries and why we are far from done—no matter our age!

With a career spanning decades, Elvira's one-of-a-kind wit and trailblazing spirit have shaped the comedy scene. From Baroness Von Sketch Show to The Debaters and Popcultured, she's done it all. And the awards? A Canadian Comedy Award winner, a Gemini Award nominee, and a Women in Film & Television Award recipient—just to name a few.

And she's still going strong! Catch her on tour with the hilarious Girls Night Out comedy group alongside Diana Frances, Karen Parker, and Jennine Profeta

💥 Tune in for a conversation that's inspiring, hilarious, and full of fire!

Aleysa Young has learned to trust her gut Apr 09, 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with powerhouse director Aleysa Young, whose work has shaped some of the best comedy on TV. We dive into her journey as a director, the career-changing moment when she interviewed for Baroness von Sketch Show, and how she's built a reputation for creating safe, playful, and dynamic sets where comedy can truly ignite. Aleysa shares insights on her process, the challenges of directing comedy, and the importance of fostering an environment where performers feel free to take risks.

From New Eden to Workin' Moms, The Kids in the Hall to Run the Burbs and North of North, Aleysa has left her mark on some of the most beloved and innovative comedy series. Her ability to bring out the best in actors while shaping hilarious and poignant storytelling has made her one of the most sought-after directors in the industry.

Join us as we celebrate Aleysa Young's career, her comedic instincts, and the way she continues to break barriers in the world of television.

Rosa Laborde shares her writing process and how she deals with burnout Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

This week, we sit down with the powerhouse that is Rosa Laborde—award-winning playwright, screenwriter, director, and actor—whose work spans theatre, film, and television.

We dive into the creative process, the magic (and challenges!) of collaborating with friends, and the drive to make things happen. But what happens when burnout hits? Rosa shares her experiences with creative burn out, how to recognize it, and the ways she recharges to keep the fire burning.

With acclaimed plays like Interior Design, Light, True, Marine Life, and Leo, multiple Dora Award nominations for best new play, receiving the KM Hunter Artist's Award for Theatre, and been a finalist for the Governor General's Literary Award for Drama, along with screenwriting credits on The Spencer Sisters (CTV) and Sensitive Skin (HBO Canada), Rosa has left a powerful mark on the industry. With her latest series Nesting which she co-created, co-starred, and was showrunner for, she proves that her creative energy is unstoppable.

As an actor Rosa has played recurring roles on shows like Saving Hope, Regenesis, At the Hotel, History Bites (Gemini Nomination — now Canadian Screen Award), bringing her Rosa-charisma to every role.

Don't miss this inspiring, honest, and thought-provoking conversation.

Ashleigh Rains shares her creative journey from pointe shoes to production. Mar 12, 2025

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with the multi-talented Ashleigh Rains!

Naomi and Ashleigh dive deep into her fascinating journey from classical ballet training at Canada's National Ballet School to her current success as an actress and award-winning producer. You'll hear all about her creative philosophy, how she balances multiple artistic pursuits, and the story behind founding C'mon Mort Productions!

This episode is packed with insights as Ashleigh shares her experiences working on hits like The Handmaid's Tale and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, plus her perspective as Festival Director and Head Programmer for @canfilmfest.

Whether you're a fellow artist or simply love hearing about creative journeys, you won't want to miss this heartfelt discussion about prioritizing creativity and exploring multiple artistic paths!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Liesl Lafferty: Multi-Hyphenate Creative Force in Canadian Film & Television Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

Meet the dynamic Liesl Lafferty, a Jessie award-winning director whose journey from scriptwriter to industry leader embodies creative perseverance. As Head of Firecracker Writing Department, Liesl has transformed countless storytelling dreams into reality.

Her latest ventures showcase her innovative spirit – from co-creating The Writers Lab Canada to producing the Comedy Film Igniter and the Bell Fibe TV1 series "Bagged." With experience spanning directing, writing, producing, and dramaturgy, Liesl brings a wealth of knowledge about navigating the entertainment industry.

In this episode, we'll explore: - Her breakthrough moment with "The Gravedigger's Daughter" - The evolution of her career from volunteer to department head - Behind-the-scenes insights from her various productions - Tips from her acclaimed scriptwriting workshops - Her unique perspective on fostering creative communities

Plus, discover how her uncanny gift for finding lost things might just be the perfect metaphor for her talent in uncovering and nurturing new creative voices.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of Canada's most versatile entertainment professionals.

Follow Liesl's creative journey: Instagram: @liesllafferty Website: www.liesllafferty.com

Jen Pogue reveals the challenges and triumphs of her creative journey Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

Don't miss this heartfelt conversation between our host Naomi Snieckus and Jen Pogue 💫

Jen reveals the challenges and triumphs of her creative journey - from winning a CSA for County Blooms to navigating her cancer diagnosis. Through it all, her resilience, passion, and commitment to community shine through.

This insightful discussion touches on finding your own path, the power of collaboration, and the importance of following your gut.

This is a must-listen episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and plenty of laughs.

Thank you to the pod team: Naomi Snieckus (Host/Producer) @sneickus Pau Carranza (Head Producer) @paulina.carranzar Sarah Nuccio (Asst. Producer) #sarahnuccio Jennifer Rowley (Editing) #jenniferrowley and @sarra.gillani Aislinn Paul (Graphics & Video) @aislinnpaul Jody Quine (Website) @jodyquine Angela Murdoch (Socials) @angelaraemurdoch

#community #womeninfilm #funnymoments

Veena Sood says yes to opportunities Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

This week on the Firecracker Department podcast, host Naomi Snieckus teams up with the fabulous Jody Quine from our Vancouver chapter to chat with the incredible Veena Sood!

From feeling a sudden calling at the age of 14, to her early days of Theatre Sports with Keith Johnstone, to her starring role in Children Ruin Everything for CTV, Veena shares inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and so much creative fire!

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