Things Are Going Great For Me with J. Claude Deering

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Latest Episodes:

Episode 32 - Actor James Wolk (The Boys in the Boat / Mad Men) / TV Writer + Exec Producer Daria Polatin (Devil in Ohio) Nov 14, 2023

The wait...is over! Welcome back! To another BRAND NEW season of Things Are Going Great For Me. In our first episode of Season 4 ⁠J. Claude Deering⁠ (⁠Threads⁠/⁠Instagram⁠) chats with actor James Wolk. Jimmy is known for starring alongside Robin Williams in the CBS series The Crazy Ones. He’s also known for playing the enigmatic “Bob Benson” on the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning AMC period drama series Mad Men. More recently Jimmy has starred in the CBS drama thriller series Zoo, in addition to playing “Senator Joe Keene” on the HBO superhero limited series Watchmen. Next up he’s starring in the George Clooney directed “The Boys in the Boat”, due out in theaters this Christmas. Followed by a second interview with Daria Polatin. Daria is a TV writer/executive producer, award-winning playwright, and author. She’s the creator and EP of Devil in Ohio, a Netflix Limited Series starring Emily Deschanel, which debuted at #1 on Netflix and ascended the Nielsen Ratings Charts with 1.38 billion viewing minutes in one week alone. Daria also authored the best-selling thriller novel Devil in Ohio, which she adapted into the series. She was also co-executive producer of Stephen King’s Castle Rock for Hulu, where her episode “The Laughing Place” was named one of Entertainment Weekly’s Best TV Episodes of 2019. Her TV credits include the Amazon series Jack Ryan, and Hunters, in addition to the Starz series Heels, Hulu’s Shut Eye, and MGM’s The Condor. She’s also a member of the WGA’s Middle Eastern Writers Committee, which seeks to boost visibility and employment of Middle Eastern writers within the film and TV industry. And she’s a founding member of The Kilroys, a collective of playwrights, directors and producers who are done talking about gender parity and are taking action. Stick around for Daria’s interview, we promise you, you’re not gonna want to miss it. J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host ⁠Winston Carter⁠ (⁠X/⁠Instagram⁠) to chat Hot Labor Summer and Heat Wave Labor Autumn. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our ⁠Patreon⁠ for all our extras! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 31 - Actor + Director Beth Riesgraf (Leverage: Redemption) / Actor + Director Darwin Shaw (Moon Knight) Dec 14, 2022

Episode 31! In our Season 3 finale, J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and director Beth Riesgraf, best known for playing "Parker, The Thief” in all five seasons of the TNT hit drama Leverage. For her role, Beth was nominated three times for a Saturn Award for best-supporting actress on television. Additional credits include Spin City, My Name is Earl, Alvin and The Chipmunks, Intruders, NCIS, Criminal Minds, Killer Woman, The Mentalist, Perceptions" in addition to starring roles in USA’s series Complications, and the Paramount Network’s 68 Whiskey. Last year Beth joined her Leverage cast for the revival series, Leverage: Redemption, currently in its second season, and available to stream on Amazon’s FreeVee. Which has seen Beth helming multiple episodes as a director, as well as bringing in her 4th Saturn Award nomination.

Followed by a second interview with actor and director, Darwin Shaw. Darwin worked as a doctor at King's College Hospital, in the UK, before retraining in classical theatre at The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. His first professional acting role was in Julius Caesar at the Barbican Theatre with a cast which included Ralph Fiennes, Fiona Shaw, and Simon Russell Beale. He made his debut for the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2011 playing "Will Scarlet" in the premiere of the critically acclaimed The Heart of Robin Hood. His first feature film role was as "Fisher", James Bond's first kill, in the opening of 2006's Casino Royale that introduced Daniel Craig as the new "007". Darwin went on to appear in Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time opposite Jake Gyllenhaal, John Carter, and Prometheus, directed by Ridley Scott. Darwin also played the leading role of "Saint Peter" in the television mini-series, The Bible, produced by Roma Downey and Mark Burnett. Additional credits include Call of the Midwife, The Borgias, Marco Polo and House of Cards for Netflix, and Marvel’s Moon Knight for Disney+. During the pandemic, Darwin and a partner launched The Antiviral Film Project, which gathered together an astonishing 22 filmed stories from around the world, each set against the backdrop of Covid. Stick around for Darwin’s interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

Plus J. Claude is joined by producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat the nuances of audition rooms.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We recommend having a look back and catching up on any episodes you may have missed. And stay tuned for Season 4!

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Episode 30 - Actor Gil McKinney (The Winchesters) / Actor Susie Abromeit (The Forever Purge) Dec 07, 2022

Episode 30! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and singer, Gil McKinney. A Texas Native, and graduate of the University of Southern California School of Music, now residing in LA with his lovely wife and two wonderful kids. In the summer of 2017, he released his first solo EP which shot to the top of the iTunes and Billboard Music Jazz Charts. He followed this up with the release of a Christmas album in 2018. As an actor Gil’s appeared in numerous hit television series, films, and commercials over his 20 year stretch in Hollywood. Notable TV roles include “Dr. Paul Grady” on E.R., “Derek Bishop” on Friday Night Lights, “Henry Winchester” on Supernatural, and “Prince Eric” on Once Upon A Time. Gil’s also known for portraying “Jack Kelso” in the hit Rockstar video game L.A. Noire. This year the indie thriller Metamorphosis was released on Prime Video, in which Gil stars in the leading role. And just this week Gil reprised his fan favorite role as “Henry Winchester” in the Supernatural prequel spinoff, The Winchesters, for the CW.

Followed by a second interview with Susie Abromeit. Known for her breakout role as “Pam,” in Netflix’s Jessica Jones Susie has proven herself a force to be reckoned with. Before she made her mark on Hollywood she came very close to a career as a professional tennis player, receiving a full scholarship to Duke University. She was one of the top ranked players (#6 in the US), helping her team earn a number one ranking and an NCAA title during her freshman year. Not long after, she decided to transition into pursuing music, in addition to acting and modeling. Susie went on to perform a song with Fat Joe for Atlantic Records - the song “Slow Your Roll,” became a summer hit playing on various radio stations. A few of her other songs that she performed, wrote, and produced, became top requested songs on local radio stations throughout Florida. From there, she graced the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, while simultaneously making her film debut as the lead in the Lionsgate film, Know Thy Enemy. Soon after, she began to book roles in films, such as Sydney White, I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell, Setup, alongside Bruce Willis, and the blockbuster hit Battle: Los Angeles. Additional credits include: King Richard, The Forever Purge, Chicago Med, Devious Maids, One Tree Hill, Tyler Perry’s, The Haves and Have Nots, Rake, Legends of Tomorrow, Code Black, Supernatural, and NCIS, among many others. Stick around for Susie's interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

Plus J. Claude is joined by producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to compare the regional film and tv marketplaces, and the various performing arts colleges in the major US cities.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! Stay tuned, because we’ve got our Season 3 finale premiering next Wednesday. Including interviews with Beth Riesgraf and Darwin Shaw!

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Episode 29 - Actor Sufe Bradshaw (Veep) / Actor Tonatiuh (Vida) Nov 30, 2022

Episode 29! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Sufe Bradshaw. Sufe is best known for her series regular role on HBO’s multiple Emmy-winning political satire Veep as the hilarious and deadpan "Sue Wilson". She along with the rest of the Veep cast were also nominated for four Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an ensemble in a comedy series. Recently she wrapped the feature film Gasoline Alley, opposite Bruce Willis, and the D. B. Weiss film Metal Lords for Netflix. Some of her additional film credits include The Disappearance of Mrs. Wu, Star Trek, Murder Mystery, alongside Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler and Together Together, alongside Ed Helms and Patti Harrison. Her additional TV credits include: Lovecraft Country for HBO and The Guest Book for TBS.

Followed by a second interview with Tonatiuh. With almost a decade of experience on both stage and screen, Tonatiuh is known for stand out performances including his recent portrayal of “Antonio Sandoval” on the ABC drama Promised Land. A native Los Angeleno, Tonatiuh attended USC’s School of Dramatic Arts and School of Cinematic Arts. While in college, his passion for the stage connected him with theatre companies around LA, such as IAMA Theatre Company, and the ECHO Theatre Company - where he starred in Boni B. Alvarez’s play Fixed. In the final performance of Fixed, Tonatiuh met Mexican-American actress and showrunner Tanya Saracho, who was inspired by his performance and wrote him into her GLAAD Media Award-winning Starz series Vida. Tonatiuh’s three-season recurring guest star arc as the gender-bending "Marcos Zamora" landed him on the cover of the LA Times Calendar section. Most recently Tonatiuh was seen in the Peacock original Angelyne, starring Emmy Rossum and Martin Freeman, and next up he’ll be appearing the Netflix and Amblin thriller feature film Carry-On. Stick around for Tonatiuh's interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

Plus J. Claude is joined by producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to review current offerings in movies and streaming series!

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just TWO episodes left in Season 3, premiering every Wednesday. Including interviews with Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Darwin Shaw, and Gil McKinney!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 28 - Actor + Producer Michael Grant Terry (Bones / SmartLess Pod) / Comedian Reem Edan (NBC Late Night Writers Workshop) Nov 23, 2022

Episode 28! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and producer Michael Grant Terry. Mike played “Wendell Bray” for nine seasons on the hit Fox procedural Bones. He’s also recurred on NBC’s Grimm and CW’s Roswell New Mexico. His other film and television appearances include Criminal Minds, NCIS, NCIS: New Orleans, CSI, Castle, Without a Trace, and the indie film, The Archer. These days Mike is also a busy producer. His producing credits include the 26th and 27th Screen Actors Guild Awards. He’s also the Executive Producer of the number one comedy podcast (and perhaps soon to be the biggest podcast in the world) SmartLess, with hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes. Earlier this month SmartLess had on President Joe Biden as a guest.

Followed by a second interview with Reem Edan. Reem is an Iraqi-American comedian, writer, actress and digital content creator known for her unique brand of quote “Muslim-ennial” humor. She’s performed at venues and colleges across the US, Europe, Japan and the Middle East, and opened for comics including Iliza Schlesinger and Arsenio Hall. Reem is an alumni of the 2020 NBC Late Night Writing Workshop, the MGM Writing Program, she’s also a two-time scholarship recipient at The Groundlings, and has worked with brands like WhoHaha and SWAAY Media to elevate female perspectives and stories. Stick around for Reem's interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

Plus J. Claude is joined by producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat favorite Thanksgiving sides!

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just THREE episodes left in Season 3, premiering every Wednesday. Including interviews with Sufe Bradshaw, Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Darwin Shaw, Gil McKinney, and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 27 - Actor Claybourne Elder (The Gilded Age) / Actor Lauren Buglioli (Florida Man) Nov 16, 2022

Episode 27! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Claybourne Elder (The Gilded Age / HBO). Clay is a Drama Desk and Lucille Lortel nominated actor who appeared most recently on Broadway, playing “Andy” in the Tony Award-winning revival of Company. In fact this interview was recorded over the summer during the closing weeks of that historic show, so this chat serves in some ways as an interesting time capsule. Clay’s also known for his performances on Broadway in Sunday in the Park with George, Torch Song, Bonnie and Clyde, and in Sondheim on Sondheim at the Hollywood Bowl. On Television he’s known for his role as "Pete O’Malley" on The Carrie Diaries, and up next he’ll be returning as “John Adams” on the 2nd season of HBO’s The Gilded Age. Clay has been an out actor since the beginning of his career, and both he and his husband are advocates for LGBTQ youth. He’s also an active participant in The Covenant House’s sleepouts in solidarity with young people who are trying to overcome homelessness. Recently, Clay launched an initiative called City of Strangers NYC, to provide free tickets to people who can’t afford Broadway shows, which has gained unexpected attention nationally and was featured on CBS This Morning.

Followed by a second interview with Lauren Buglioli (Florida Man / Netflix). Lauren has been working as an actor since she was literally in diapers. After moving to London, England for middle and high school, she worked in film, television, radio and theatre. In her own words, she is "a person just doing her best". She’s also an actor, voiceover artist, audition coach, educator, dog mom and enthusiast. Her training includes London's Central School of Speech and Drama, The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, NYU, Stella Adler Studios, the Lee Strasberg Institute, UCB, Lesly Kahn, and others. She recently landed a big recurring role on the upcoming Netflix series, Florida Man, and she’s appearing in the upcoming feature film “Tyler Perry’s A Jazzman’s Blues”. She also has a Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from NYU. And she’s adopted two dogs, "Vixen", and "Beverly Hills Cop II", and she desperately wants to show you a photo of them. Stick around for Lauren's interview, I promise you, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just FOUR episodes left in Season 3, premiering every Wednesday. Including interviews with Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Gil McKinney, Sufe Bradshaw, Reem Edan, Michael Grant Terry, and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 26 - Actor + Comedian Leonard Robinson (Insecure) / Actor Jee Young Han (Perry Mason) Nov 09, 2022

Episode 26! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and comedian Leonard Robinson (Insecure / HBO).Leonard is best known for his role as Taurean Jackson on HBO’s Emmy, Peabody, and NAACP Image Award-winning series Insecure. He’s also known for his four seasons as a performer on the hugely popular comedy series Wild N' Out. After graduating from Howard University, Leonard appeared in films and television projects such as Life of Crime with Jennifer Aniston and John Hawkes, The ESPN miniseries, The Bronx Is Burning, NCIS and NCIS: LA, Adam Ruins Everything, and Young Sheldon, and he currently co-stars in the very funny Netflix series Blockbuster. His theater resume includes work at The Culture Project (Off-Broadway), the Williamstown Theatre Festival, the New York Fringe Festival, and the Studio Theatre in Washington, DC. As a stand-up comedian, Leonard can be seen weekly at The World Famous Comedy Store on Sunset Blvd. AND you can find him currently in the Main Company at the world renowned comedy institution, The Groundlings.

Followed by a second interview with Jee Young Han (Perry Mason / HBO). Jee is an actress originally from Walnut, California. After programs at AMDA and The New School in New York City, she started working in tv and film on shows like 30 Rock, The Good Wife, Shameless, Grey’s Anatomy, and 9-1-1, in addition to recurring roles on The Santa Clarita Diet, Comedy Bang! Bang!, Station 19, Superstore, and Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist. Next up she can be seen in a big recurring role in the upcoming 2nd season of HBO’s Perry Mason, in addition to another recurring role on the upcoming Hulu comedy series Unprisoned, alongside Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo. Stick around for Jee’s interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

Plus J. Claude is joined by producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat holiday movies and his monster band Drac and the Swamp Rats.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews with Claybourne Elder, Beth Rizegraf, Susie Abromight, Gil McKinney, Sufe Bradshaw, Reem Edan, Michael Grant Terry, and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 25 - Comedian Fabrizio Copano (Just For Laughs) / Actor + Comedian Jared Wilder (Laugh and a Draft) Nov 02, 2022

Episode 25! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with comedian Fabrizio Copano (Just For Laughs). Fabrizio is one of the most well-known comedians in Latin America, and is the first South American comedian to shoot an original comedy special for Netflix. Called “I Only Think About Myself”. He is the actor and writer of the hit Chilean comedy show “El Club de la Comedia.” Often referred to as "the Jon Stewart of Chile", Fabrizio also led his own late-night show and was one of the hosts of a series for Comedy Central Latin America featuring a supergroup of the top five comedians from 5 countries in Latin America. He also starred in the outstanding documentary "Monstruo" when he journeyed from his hometown in Chile to become the youngest comedian ever to conquer the Monstruo and win the Grand Prize at the Viña del Mar Festival. This year Fabrizio was named one of the New Faces of Comedy at the prestigious Just For Laughs festival in Montreal.

Followed by a second interview with Jared Wilder (Laugh and a Draft). Jared is both a brilliant actor and a brilliant and hilarious stand up comedian, who has acted Off-Broadway, and on hit TV series, in addition to performing at comedy clubs like Stand Up New York and Caroline’s. CBS News New York listed Jared in an article as one of five NYC-Based Comedians You Should Know. Classically trained in Shakespeare, Chekhov, and Super Mario Bros. Born and raised in the mean streets of the Upper West Side. Seen on NBC's "Chuck", ABC's 'Hope & Faith", as well as many theatrical productions as an improviser, stand up comic, director, and producer bi-coastally. He's also the creator and producer of the hit live comedy show Laugh and a Draft. Stick around for Jared's interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews with Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Gil McKinney, Sufe Bradshaw, Jee Young Han, Michael Grant Terry, and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 24 - Actor + Comedian Alyssa Limperis (No Bad Days) / Actor + Comedian Cheyenne Perez (The Sex Lives of College Girls) Oct 26, 2022

Episode 24! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and comedian Alyssa Limperis (No Bad Days / Peacock).Alyssa's debut one hour comedy special, No Bad Days, was released this past August on Peacock. It is a fantastic and bold debut comedy special that succeeds both in being a deeply honest portrayal of grief following the loss of her father from brain cancer, that still manages to find as many jokes and as much playfulness as she shared in her relationship with her wonderful dad. You may also recognize Alyssa from her hilarious Massachusetts mom videos which she writes, acts in, and edits. The viral success of these videos has led to glowing press coverage from the likes of Vulture, Decider, Forbes, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal. As an actor, Alyssa can currently be seen in Season Two of Showtime’s, Flatbush Misdemeanors. She also voices multiple characters on the Cartoon Network show We Baby Bears, and she stars in the indie horror/comedy feature film Too Late, alongside Fred Armisen.

Followed by a second interview with Cheyenne Perez (The Sex Lives of College Girls / HBO Max). Cheyenne is a comedy writer and actor, who was born and raised in LA. You can see her recurring roles as “Jo” on Mindy Kaling's "The Sex Lives of College Girls" and "Heather" on Apple TV+'s "For All Mankind". She has three more Apple TV+ bookings under her belt that are coming out, including the feature film, "Spirited," starring Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds, the series "Platonic", starring Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, and the drama series "Sugar" starring Colin Farrell. Stick around for her interview, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat SNL audition tapes and "Jimmy Stewart Season"!

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews with Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Gil McKinney, Sufe Bradshaw, Jee Young Han, Fabrizio Copano. and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 23 - Actor Zibby Allen (Virgin River) / Musician + Author Fay Wolf (New Order: A Decluttering Handbook For Creative Folks) Oct 19, 2022

It's a circle of friends on today's episode of Things Are Going Great For Me! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor (Virgin River/Netflix).Zibby plays "Brie Sheridan" in Netflix’s mega-hit series Virgin River. She began her television career as the recurring character "Nurse Zibby" on Grey’s Anatomy. She’s also known for her beloved role as "Madame Goo Goo" on A.N.T. Farm.

Followed by a second interview Fay Wolf (New Order: A Decluttering Handbook For Creative Folks). Fay is an artist, musician, author, and decluttering coach based in Los Angeles. Her beautiful songs have been heard on TV series like Grey's Anatomy, The Fosters, and Pretty Little Liars, and on the new hit Netflix series Devil in Ohio. Fay founded New Order®, her decluttering business, in 2006, and has since guided hundreds of humans toward a happier life with less. Her book New Order: A Decluttering Handbook For Creative Folks (And Everyone Else) was released by Ballantine/Random House in 2016 and is now an online course as well. Fay has given keynotes at such places as the official Etsy conference and the Soho House, and her work has been praised in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Apartment Therapy. As an actor, Fay has performed on stages across the U.S. and on shows like 2 Broke Girls and Bones. She also writes and performs spoken word pieces, mainly surrounding her identity as a biracial Black, Jewish, Bi+ human being. And occasionally dabbles in visual art. Stick around for Fay's interview, we promise you, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat about their trips to Dublin and Texas, respectively.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes now premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews withAlyssa Limperis, Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf, Gil McKinney, Sufe Bradshaw, Susie Abromeit, Jee Young Han and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 22 - Actor John Clarence Stewart (P-Valley / Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist) Oct 12, 2022

Today we’re doing something special again, it’s our very first solo guest episode! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor John Clarence Stewart (P-Valley/Starz!). John recurred on the sophomore season of the hit Starz! drama, P-Valley as beloved character "Thaddeus Wilks", aka “Big Teak”. Previously John starred on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning musical television series Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist, in another fan favorite role as “Simon”. John can also be seen on the Netflix anthology series What/If opposite Renée Zellweger, and he recurred on both seasons of Marvel's Luke Cage. In this special long form interview John chats arts education, getting his start in regional theater before making the move to New York City, he also opens up about family loss and grief, and struggling to make ends meet while bringing his artistry to the audition process for the hit shows he’s starred on. Finally, John discusses his career-changing role, “Big Teak” and shares his feelings on the important subject of representation for black men in mainstream media storytelling. This is a really good one folks. We hope you enjoy it.

If you like any of what you hear today, please do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras with Chris Pine, Melissa Fumero, Patrick J. Adams, and more! We've got NEW episodes now premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews withZibby Allen, Alyssa Limperis, Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf, Susie Abromeit, Sufe Bradshaw, and Jee Young Han!

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A Guide to Professional Acting Technique Oct 04, 2022

Hello folks! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) recorded a bonus episode on Acting Technique, exclusively for our show's Patreon members. And now we’re making it available to you all. In addition to working professionally as an actor, director, writer, and a comedian, Mr. Deering has also worked as an adjunct faculty member at schools like Stella Adler Studios in New York City and New York Film Academy. He's also a lifetime member of the Lincoln Center Directors LAB...not too shabby. So what you’re about to hear is a synthesis of 20th Century American Acting Technique, interpreted by American practitioners, who adapted it from Konstantin Stanislavsky’s System of Acting. Claude gives a brief history of the origin of contemporary acting technique before delving into standard areas of study such as given circumstances, characterization, objective, obstacles, dramatic actions, emotional memory, exterior work, and improvisation. Meant to be an overview for anyone not familiar with technique, or those currently studying acting at a school or conservatory, it's also a nice refresher for any pros out there. Afterwards why not check out our interviews with folks like Chris Pine, Ali Stroker, Clarke Peters, Tembi Locke, Patrick J Adams, Melissa Fumero, Ira Madison III, Chantal Thuy, John Clarence Stewart, Corbin Reid, Jim O'Heir, Baron Vaughn, Sarah Levy, Zibby Allen, Rightor Doyle, and more! And if you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today.

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Episode 21 - Tony Award-winning Actor & Author Ali Stroker (Only Murders in the Building) / Assistant Director Ru Kazi (Welcome to Chippendales) Sep 28, 2022

Welcome back! To another BRAND NEW season of Things Are Going Great For Me: The Podcast. In our first episode of Season 3 J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with author and Tony Award-winning actor Ali Stroker (Only Murders In The Building/Hulu). Ali is a Tony Award-winning actor for her role as ‘Ado Annie’ in the 2019 revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! She made history as the first actor in a wheelchair to appear on Broadway in Deaf West’s acclaimed 2015 revival of Spring Awakening. She can be seen as a series regular on Netflix’s number one show of 2022, “Echoes”, as well as on Hulu’s highest rated series, “Only Murders in the Building." She also recurred on Netflix in “Ozark” and on ABC's “Ten Days in the Valley”. The past summer Ali starred in Shakespeare in the Park’s production of Richard III as Anne. She’s also performed concerts around the country in venues including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and Carnegie Hall. In 2022, Audible Originals released her one-woman show, "An Evening With Ali Stroker". Ali is the proud author of the acclaimed 2021 novel, The Chance to Fly, while 2022 saw the publication of her children’s book, Ali and the Sea Stars.

Followed by a second interview with Assistant Director Ru Kazi (Welcome to Chippendales/Hulu). A multi-talented artist, and our first ever Assistant Director on the podcast. Ru is currently completing the Directors Guild Producer Training Program, with a specialization in Assistant Directing. They are currently working on various hit streaming series including Freeform’s Good Trouble and the upcoming Hulu series Welcome to Chippendales, starring Kumail Nanjiani. Also a graduate of the Stella Adler Conservatory Ru has acted in both contemporary and classical plays, they’ve also directed plays, and they’ve made numerous television appearances in shows such as 2 BROKE GIRLS, NCIS and a recurring role on NBC’s THE GOOD PLACE. Ru also made several award-winning short films, including LAST TO REPEAT, nominated for 12 awards. Ru regularly performs improv comedy as a main-stage player at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and The Second City’s Hollywood branch. In Ru’s free time, they plays drums in a social justice punk rock band that regularly plays at famed Sunset Strip venues such as Whiskey-a-Go-Go and The Rainbow Room. Stick around for Ru’s interview, we promise you, you’re not gonna want to miss it.

J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat the funniest celebrity to pass on this season of the podcast. It's "inconceivable!"

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes now premiering every Wednesday! Featuring interviews withJohn Clarence Stewart, Zibby Allen, Alyssa Limperis, Leonard Robinson, Claybourne Elder, Beth Riesgraf and Susie Abromeit, and more!

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Episode 20 - Actor Shelly Bhalla (Jane the Virgin) / Actor Noah Maxwell Clarke (I May Destroy You) Oct 28, 2021

In our Season 2 finale of Things Are Going Great For MeJ. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with Shelly Bhalla (Jane the Virgin). Shelly is an actor who starred as Krishna Dhawan in the Peabody Award Winning, and Emmy and Golden Globe nominated series, Jane the Virgin. Shelly talks about turning a small co-star role into a beloved character who recurred 29 times on the show. She also talks about playing the first gay woman of Indian descent on television, the often elusive pay pumps as a recurring guest star, and systemic problems in terms of historical pay in Hollywood for AAPI performers and women of color. And she talks about her personal life, including dealing with the grief of losing her father 20 years ago, and her volunteering with Experience Camps. In addition to her Covid-elopement style wedding in the midst of a pandemic.

Followed by a second interview with Noah Maxwell Clarke (I May Destroy You). Noah is an English and American actor, who has recurred and guest starred on multiple British television series, including HBO’s I May Destroy You, Britannia, Top Boy, and Hard Sun. He’s also known for playing Osman Bolat on the beloved landmark British television series EastEnders. He talks about the vibe of the industry in London, UK casting directors, his Meisner training at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, and getting to work with the legendary Carrie Fisher. He also talks about growing up in a talented family of exceptional artists.

Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude discuss the horrific death of cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, on the Rust film. In addition to safety protocols and working conditions on set.

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Episode 19 - Actor & Podcast Host Alyshia Ochse (True Detective) / Actor & Artistic Director Stefanie Black (IAMA Theatre Company) Oct 21, 2021

It’s multi-hyphenate day on Things Are Going Great For Me.J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with Alyshia Ochse (True Detective). Alyshia is an actor, a podcaster, an author, and an audition coach. Alyshia has over 75 titles on her resume and even more credits, including her outstanding performance in the iconic first season of True Detective, where she shared the screen with Matthew McConaughey at the height of the "McConaissance". She recently co-starred in the multiple Emmy-winning Quibi series #FreeRayshawn, with Laurence Fishburne. She talks about auditioning, book writing, and interviewing actors for her podcast That One Audition. She also talks about working on multiple projects, while maintaining her work/life balance.

Followed by a second interview with Stefanie Black (IAMA Theatre Company). Stefanie is an actor, writer, and feature film director, who also serves as the Artistic Director of IAMA Theatre Company (of which she is also a founding member). She talks about leading a membership based theater company, and moving an entire slate of play productions fully online as digital offerings in the midst of a global pandemic. She also talks about her multiple credits working on TV sitcoms and dramas. Including being a regular player in ShondaLand, and working with her hero, Kathy Bates.

Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat Succession and Squid Game.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just ONE more episode in Season 2, premiering next Thursday! Featuring interviews with Shelly Bhalla and Noah Maxwell Clarke!

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Episode 18 - Actor Pej Vahdat (The Old Man) / Actor Mapuana Makia (Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.) Oct 14, 2021

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Pej Vahdat (The Old Man). Pej is a prolific actor who starred as Dr. Arastoo Vaziri on Bones, Kelly Patel on Empire, and Kash on Showtime’s Shameless. He talks about the groundbreaking character arc of Dr. Vaziri on Bones. Struggling to get noticed early on in his career as a brown actor, and navigating an industry that often tokenizes and stereotypes Middle Eastern performers. He also talks about his stage work at Lincoln Center, his early career as a professional tennis player. And the incredible story of when he started his own agency in order to submit himself on projects.

Followed by a second interview with Mapuana Makia (Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.). Mapuana currently stars as Dr. Noelani Nakayama on the new Disney+ series, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. She talks about doing a network showcase at ABC, and going on to shadow direct for the showcase, in addition to co-teaching workshops for program. She also talks about working as a dialogue coach on set, growing up in Hawaii, working with teen actors, her old day jobs in bars and restaurants, and creating her own voiceover and audiobook business.

Plus Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat about breaking the rules in art.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just TWO more episodes in Season 2, premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Alyshia Ochse, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Shelly Bhalla, and more!

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Episode 17 - Actor Joe Tippett (Mare of Easttown) / Celebrity Barber Jonathan Castellanos (LLANOS.LA) Oct 07, 2021

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Joe Tippett (Mare of Easttown). Joe is an actor who starred as John Ross in the multiple Emmy Award winning HBO hit series Mare of Easttown. Joe was also in the original cast of Waitress on Broadway, and he also recurs as Hal Jackson on The Morning Show for AppleTV+. Joe talks about craft and process while working on a complicated whodunit, and finding what’s universal in the specifics of small town Pennsylvania. He also shares insights about working with multiple celebrated leading ladies such as Kate Winslet, Jean Smart, and Julianne Nicholson. And he chats sobriety, the difference between performance in TV/Film vs Theater, and booking jobs in Zoom rooms.

Followed by a very special interview with celebrity barber Jonathan Castellanos (LLANOS.LA). Jonathan has been featured in Nylon, and Valet Magazine. Before opening his own studio he worked as the brand ambassador for Baxter Finley. Jonathan is not only an artist, crafting hairstyles with thoughtfulness and unparalleled skill, he’s also a pop culture connoisseur. He’s both an excellent listener and a master conversationalist. During the pandemic, barbershops became particularly hard hit. When the lockdown happened, Jonathan had to retool his studio. By the time the lockdown started to lift, Jonathan had moved his business into the garage of his new home. Listen as Claude and Jonathan catch up after a year and a half, while Claude sits for an actual haircut.

Plus, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat about comedy schools and the Williamstown Theatre Festival.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got just THREE more episodes in Season 2, premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more!

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Episode 16 - Actor Sarah Levy (Schitt's Creek) / Comedian, Writer, Actor Madison Shepard (Single Drunk Female) Sep 30, 2021

Schitt's Creek fans! Here’s a “Surprise-Me-Smoothie” you’re sure to love. J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Sarah Levy (Schitt's Creek). Sarah is a SAG Award-winning actor for her role playing Twyla Sands in the record breaking Emmy-winning smash streaming hit, Schitt’s Creek. Sarah talks about the success of Schitt’s Creek, her beginnings auditioning in LA, and her new comedy horror series SurrealEstate on the SyFy network. She also talks about her dad’s famous Toronto production of Godspell back in 1972, and the experience of growing up as part of Hollywood and Canadian comedy royalty.

Followed by a second interview with comedian, writer, and actor Madison Shepard (Single Drunk Female). Madison is a comedian, writer, and actor who plays Gail on the Jenni Konner exec produced FreeForm comedy series, Single Drunk Female. She talks podcasting, her old side gig as a LYFT driver, writing for the 72nd Primetime Emmys, and her hilarious debut Comedy EP “Goodnight Silverlake Lounge”.

Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat British culture.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Noah Maxwell Clarke, Stefanie Black, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more!

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Episode 15 - Actor Jim O'Heir (Parks and Recreation) / Comedian & Writer Joan Haley Ford (ThunderCats Roar) Sep 23, 2021

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Jim O'Heir (Parks and Recreation). Jim is an Emmy-winning actor and comedian, known to everyone as the beloved Jerry Gergich from Parks and Recreation. Also known to superfans of the show as Larry, Terry, and Garry. He talks about his come up in his Chicago days doing theater and comedy, including his theater cult hit Stumpy’s Gang, which subsequently brought him out to LA. He talks about the audition process for Parks and Rec, and some fun gossip from the Parks and Rec cast family group chat. He also talks about playing against type, and his recent Emmy win for his work on The Bold and the Beautiful.

Followed by a second interview with comedian and writer Joan Haley Ford (ThunderCats Roar). Joan is an Emmy-nominated writer for her work on Funny or Die’s hilarious recap series, Gay of Thrones. She talks about her work at the UCB theater, including her long running sketch show Seinfeld: The Purge. She talks about the early days of Funny of Die, her writing for the animated series Thundercats Roar, and her upcoming HBO Max series, Tiny Toons Looniversity. She also talks about film school at Emerson College, inclusivity at the big comedy schools, and her all trans sketch team “Red and Yellow”, her hilarious sketches on the Twitch platform, and the virtues of the Gremlins movies.

Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude talk the impending IATSE Union strike.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Madison Shepard, Mapuana Makia, Shelly Bhalla, and more!

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Episode 14 - Actor Corbin Reid (Run The World) / Actor Erin Pineda (Physical) Sep 16, 2021

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Corbin Reid (Run The World/Starz). Corbin plays Sondi Hill on the new Starz comedy series, Run The World, which recently got picked up for a second season! Corbin talks about shooting a season of a show during a pandemic, in the pre-vaccine world. Her easy chemistry with her co-stars. The unique character of Harlem in New York City. Growing up in Minneapolis, and going to U Michigan for college. Her work in RENT Off-Broadway. The demands of being a swing performer in a Broadway show. And starring in reboot of Blair Witch. Followed by a second interview with actor Erin Pineda (Physical/AppleTV+). Erin is a writer, actor, and comedian, who’s currently starring in the AppleTV+ dark comedy, Physical. Erin talks about doing theater and comedy in LA, including her celebrated performance as Gilda Radner in Alan Zweibel’s production of “Bunny Bunny”. She also talks about her role as Helen in Jamie Denbo’s ren faire comedy, American Princess. Plus network showcases, audition technique, working with agents and managers, and giving yourself writing deadlines. Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat their experiences seeing the first Blair Witch movie. If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O’Heir, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Joan Ford, Madison Shepard, Shelly Bhalla, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 13 - Writer & Comedian Kevin Avery (The Great North) / Writer & Comedian Hanna Dickinson (Comedy Central) Sep 09, 2021

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with comedian and Emmy winning television writer, Kevin Avery (Last Week Tonight with John Oliver). Kevin served as head writer for the TV series, Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell. Kevin and Kamau also had a popular podcast on Earwolf, called Denzel Washington Is The Greatest Actor Of All Time Period. Kevin currently writes for the FOX animated series, The Great North. He chats day jobs, stand up, being part of the Emmy winning team at Last Week Tonight, and running a writers room.

Followed by a second interview with comedian Hanna Dickinson (Get Money/Comedy Central). Hanna is a comedian and a breakout star of Comedy Central’s Inaugural Creators Program. Where she was creating sketch videos, doing stand up spots, and hosting The Comedy Central Roast red carpets. Comedy Central also produced her Snapchat series, Get Money, a satire of a gig economy worker. Hanna’s debut half hour comedy special is on Epix’s Unexpected Sets series. Hanna chats about her stand up, strict parents, sobriety, and being on the team at Comedy Central.

Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat the 20th anniversary of September 11th.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O’Heir, Corbin Reid, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Joan Ford, Madison Shepard, and Shelly Bhalla.

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Episode 12 - Podcast Host Ira Madison III (Keep It!) / Podcast Producer Brendan McDonald (WTF with Marc Maron) Sep 02, 2021

It’s podcasters day on Things Are Going Great For Me! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with screenwriter, culture critic, and podcast host Ira Madison III (Keep It!/Crooked Media). Nylon Magazine has called him “one of the most reliably hilarious and incisive cultural critics writing today”. Ira is the creator and one of the hosts of the hugely popular Keep It! podcast on Crooked Media. Claude and Ira talk the intersection of pop culture and politics, Ira’s graduate studies at NYU Tisch School’s Dramatic Writing Program, and his latest movie project for Jennifer Hudson.

Followed by a second interview with podcast producer Brendan McDonald (WTF with Marc Maron Podcast). Brendan is the producer of one of the biggest and most beloved podcasts in the world, the WTF Pod with Marc Maron. Brendan chats about his work as a senior producer on MSNBC’s All In with Chris Hayes. The origins of the WTF pod in the offices of the old Air America liberal radio network. The history of podcasting, and the roots of a lot of its success in the LA comedy scene. Some of the more famous guests of WTF, and the historic interview they landed with then President Barack Obama.

Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude chat pop culture, and debate cable vs streaming services.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got new episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O’Heir, Kevin Avery, Corbin Reid, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, Shelly Bhalla, and more!

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Episode 11 - Actor Patrick J. Adams (Suits) / Actor Michael Benz (For All Mankind) Aug 26, 2021

Welcome back! To a BRAND NEW season of Things Are Going Great For Me: The Podcast. In our first episode of the season J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Patrick J. Adams (Suits/The Right Stuff). They talk about his work on Suits, and his latest Nat Geo series, The Right Stuff, in which he plays astronaut John Glenn. Getting his first movie role while in college, in Will Ferrell’s, Old School. And almost losing the job because of his Canadian citizenship - he had 24 hours to create an internship at USC in order to appear in the film. They talk Burning Man, flying airplanes, it’s a wide ranging and interesting chat.

Followed by a second interview with another actor/astronaut Michael Benz (For All Mankind). Claude and Michael went to high school together. They talk about his new AppleTV+ series For All Mankind, his work as a child actor for the BBC, his training at RADA, starring as Hamlet for Shakespeare’s Globe, doing The Tempest with Ralph Fiennes, being shot to death by Joaquin Phoenix’s, Joker (he plays one of “Wall Street Three”), his work on Broadway with Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in Little Foxes, goofing around with Paul Giamatti on the set of Downton Abbey and getting shushed by Maggie Smith, and if that’s not enough, getting discovered by Tom Hanks. Twice.

J. Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk the differences between the US and UK when it comes to underage drinking.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And subscribe to our Patreon for all our extras! We’ve got NEW episodes premiering every Thursday! Featuring interviews with Sarah Levy, Jim O’Heir, Kevin Avery, Ira Madison III, Corbin Reid, Brendan McDonald, Joe Tippett, Alyshia Ochse, Pej Vahdat, and Shelly Bhalla.

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Episode 10 - Actor & Author Tembi Locke (From Scratch) / Actor Vinny Chhibber (Big Sky) Oct 29, 2020

Here it is, our final episode of Season 1! J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and author Tembi Locke (From Scratch). Tembi is a succesful actor, and New York Times bestseller for her memoir, “From Scratch”. Soon to be a Netflix series, starring Zoe Saldana. It’s a heartbreaking and beautiful story about the loss of her first husband, a wonderful Italian chef named Saro, to Cancer. The book was also featured in Reese Witherspoon’s, Reese’s Book Club. Claude and Tembi worked together on the Blumhouse YouTube Original comedy horror series, 12 Deadly Days. Just one of 52 TV series she’s worked on in her very busy career. She talks about the changes to actor pensions and residuals over the years. She also talks about her parents' activism and being targeted by the FBI’s notorious COINTELPRO program. And she talks about the historic nomination of Kamala Harris for Vice President of the United States.

Followed by a second interview with actor, producer, and activist Vinny Chhibber (Big Sky). Vinny is a fast rising actor and producer, and a strong activist for better representation in Hollywood, both in front of and behind the camera. He recently starred as Liam Bhatt in the Ava DuVernay and Greg Berlanti exec produced CBS series, The Red Line. Vinny talks about the importance of voting and civic engagement. His work as a co-founder of The Salon, a forum whose mission is to accelerate the creative development of South Asian American television and film through community organizing and empowerment. He also talks losing the lead in a new tv series due to the shutdown.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk Things Are Going Great For Me Season 2.

If you like any of what you hear, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. And stay tuned for more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me. Coming soon!

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Episode 9 - Actor & Writer Rightor Doyle (Barry) / Producer & Author Elna Baker (This American Life) Oct 22, 2020

This is a really good one, folks... J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and writer Rightor Doyle (Barry). Rightor is a SAG-Nominated actor for best comedy ensemble, for his role as Nick Nicholby on the Peabody and Emmy-winning HBO comedy, Barry. He’s also the creator and director of Netflix’s dark comedy series, Bonding. Rightor talks about making his Broadway debut. His audition for Barry. He also talks about the process of selling two different TV series. Claude and Rightor also chat about their work together at the renowned Williamstown Theatre Festival.

Followed by a second interview with producer and author Elna Baker (This American Life). Elna is a celebrated comedian, author, and long time producer of the Pulitzer Prize-winning landmark radio series, This American Life. She talks about her producing and storytelling work on This American Life. And what she looks for in a story. Her upbringing in the Mormon Faith, and her first memoir, The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance. Her long journey with body shame and self-love. She’s also the first person on the podcast who is a survivor of COVID-19.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk Barry and celebrity sightings.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There is one more fantastic episode of Things Are Going Great For Me in Season 1, premiering next Thursday! Featuring interviews with Tembi Locke and Vinny Chhibber!

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Episode 8 - Actor Sara Paxton (Blonde) / Comedian Dalia Malek (SF Sketchfest) Oct 15, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Sara Paxton (Blonde). Sara is an Emmy-nominated actor and movie star who starred in the fan favorite tween fantasy romance comedy, Aquamarine. She talks about her audition process for Aquamarine. And what it was like shooting half a movie in the water, in a mermaid tail. She also talks about her great working experience with Hugh Jackman in the Jason Reitman film, The Front Runner. Her episode of MTV’s Cribs. Losing a Daytime Emmy to Elmo. And her work on Andrew Dominik's upcoming Marilyn Monroe biopic, Blonde.

Followed by a second interview with comedian Dalia Malek (SF Sketchfest). Dalia's an internationally celebrated comic whose comedy has appeared in USA Today, BuzzFeed, The Huffington Post, Paste, WhoHaha, and Funny or Die. She’s appeared at SF Sketchfest, in consecutive years, 2018, 2019, and 2020. And multiple Edinburgh Fringe Comedy Festivals. She also performed at the inaugural Cairo Comedy Festival, in 2019. The first ever comedy festival in Egypt. She’s also a human rights legal advocate, and international human rights, and refugee law expert. She talks about starting her comedy career, while simultaneously finishing her PhD. Living in the UK. Doing comedy in a pandemic. And playing comedy shows in the Middle East.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk favorite horror films.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Rightor Doyle, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, and Elna Baker!

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Episode 7 - Actor Christine Woods (Hello Ladies) / Comedian Royce Johnson (The Pack Theater) Oct 08, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Christine Woods (Hello Ladies). Christine played Jessica on HBO’s Emmy-nominated Hello Ladies, starring Stephen Merchant. She also played Lucretia Colder on USA’s Briarpatch. She talks about her audition process for Hello Ladies, including reading for one of the best casting directors in the business, Allison Jones. She talks about the nerve-wracking process of booking a TV pilot - she's booked a whopping thirteen pilots in her busy career. And she talks honestly about the pressures she’s encountered while navigating the business, including her experiences being an actor with a film at Sundance.

Followed by a second interview with actor and comedian Royce Johnson (The Pack Theater). Royce is one of the sharpest culture critics around. He currently plays on a house team at the beloved upstart punk rock comedy school, The Pack Theater, in Los Angeles. He talks about the differences between some of the notable comedy schools. Homophobia in Hollywood. He also talks about taking part in Studio U a long-form focus group run by infamous political consultant, Frank Luntz, that was instrumental in the development of Hulu.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk myths about the glamorous Hollywood life.

If you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Sara Paxton, Rightor Doyle, Tembi Locke, Dalia Malek, Vinny Chhibber, and Elna Baker!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 6 - Actor Melissa Fumero (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) / Actor David Lengel (WandaVision) Oct 01, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Melissa Fumero (Brooklyn Nine-Nine). Melissa plays Amy Santiago on NBC’s Brooklyn-Nine Nine. She’s a TV comedy icon, nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series. She talks about her early soap career. The highly anticipated Season 8 of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She also shares the origin story of her sibling-like friendship with Lin-Manuel Miranda. Shooting two different seasons of network TV, while pregnant. And her first outings as a director.

Followed by a second interview with actor David Lengel (WandaVision). David is a busy working actor, in both LA and Atlanta. He talks going to high school at the renowned Fiorello H. LaGuardia school in New York, featured in Alan Parker’s classic film, Fame. And what it was like going to high school with Nicki Minaj. He also talks about his experience working on films with luminaries such as Clint Eastwood, The Rock, and Eddie Murphy. It’s also a wonderful conversation about craft, and the differences of acting for theater, and acting for television and film.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about cop shows.

Here we are, episode six! We’re just over halfway through our limited series. Or it could be halfway through Season One. Demand more and we’ll make more. So if you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today.

There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Sara Paxton, Rightor Doyle, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 5 - Actor Chantal Thuy (Magnum P.I.) / Actor Jordan Barbour (The Inheritance) Sep 24, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor Chantal Thuy (Magnum P.I.). Chantal previously played Grace Choi on the CW’s Black Lightning. She also played the role of Minnie in Pulitzer-Prize-winner Tracy Letts’ new Broadway play, Linda Vista. Chantal talks about her extraordinary past year shooting Black Lightning, while simultaneously starring on Broadway. Representation in Hollywood, and her activism with the organization Build Power. And the process of optioning a book for a film adaptation.

Followed by a second interview with actor Jordan Barbour (The Inheritance Play / Broadway). Jordan was nominated for Best Featured Actor in a Play on Broadway, as part of the inaugural Antonyo Awards for Black Theater Artists, for his performance as Tristan, in The Inheritance Play. A show that TIME Magazine called "the most important play of the century". The show was closed down prematurely because of COVID. So Jordan talks about what happens in a business where “the show must go on”, and suddenly…it doesn’t.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about all things theater.

Here we are, episode five! We’re halfway through our limited series. Or it could be halfway through Season One. It’s entirely up to you. Demand more and we’ll make more. So if you like any of what you hear today, do us a BIG kindness - subscribe to the show. Leave us a nice comment. Tell your aunt about us! Give us those five stars wherever you’re getting your podcasts from today.

There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 4 - Actor Brandon Scott (Dead to Me) / Actor Jess Nurse (Scandal) Sep 17, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with actor and college friend, Brandon Scott (Dead to Me / 13 Reasons Why). Brandon plays Officer Nick Prager on Netflix’s Dead to Me. He also plays Coach J. J. Kerba on Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why. Claude and Brandon talk about their shared theater education. An NBC comedy pilot they both tested for. Brandon's longtime practice of martial arts. He also tells an absolutely hilarious and terrifying story about his early career studio test for Denzel Washington, for a role in the film The Great Debaters.

Followed by a second interview with actor Jess Nurse (Scandal / War Games). Jess recurred on ABC’s Scandal, and she stars in the VR reboot of MGM’s War Games. She’s an alum of the prestigious Stella Adler Studios, in New York. Jess talks about acting in a VR project that features a complicated interactive decision tree. Her own wonderful original series Roof Access. And the day she received the felicitous news from her reps that her character was going from a co-star to a recurring role on a network tv show.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to talk about the difficulties of making a living as an actor. And to support @beanartshero – an organization that’s advocating for the DAWN Act, a comprehensive bill to provide arts worker relief.

Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber, Elna Baker...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 3 - Comedian Baron Vaughn (Grace and Frankie) / Comedian Liz Glazer (Finding Forty Podcast) Sep 10, 2020

It’s a comedian heavy episode of Things Are Going Great For Me. J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) chats with comedian and actor Baron Vaughn (Grace and Frankie / Comedy Central's Corporate). They talk about some personal shared experience seeking out and connecting with a birth parent. The American education system. The way in which fear and anxiety can be a necessary part of the artistic process. Breaking out of the boxes of Hollywood’s racial stereotypes. And putting a tape together for Saturday Night Live.

Followed by a second interview with comedian Liz Glazer. Liz talks about doing comedy during a pandemic. Her engagement to a rabbi. Her panic inducing bat mizvah. And her magical story of being a magnet for tossed away fortune cookie fortunes.

Claude is also joined by his producer and co-host Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat about all things comedy.

Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 2 - Actor Clarke Peters (Da 5 Bloods) / Actor Della Saba (Physical) Sep 03, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Clarke Peters (Da 5 Bloods) back in June, 2020. They talk about Da 5 Bloods, and how Clarke met Spike Lee. Mr. Peters' multiple Tony and Olivier-Award nominations and wins. Anti-black racism in the UK. Historically not getting paid the same as his white actor counterparts. And his theory on why The Wire is a better show than The Sopranos.

Followed by a second interview with actor Della Saba (Physical). An Actors' Gang company member. And star of the Apple TV+ show Physical. She also voiced "Young Judy Hopps" in Disney's Zootopia. It’s a wonderful conversation about theater and craft. Claude and Della talk about voiceover work, theater styles, actor training, and identity.

Also, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) and Claude have a conversation about the tragic passing of movie star and icon, Chadwick Boseman.

Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Baron Vaughn, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Episode 1 - Actor Chris Pine (Dungeons & Dragons) / Writer G.O. Parsons (Willy's Wonderland) Aug 27, 2020

J. Claude Deering (Twitter/Instagram) spoke with actor Chris Pine (Wonder Woman 1984) back in April, 2020. In this exclusive podcast interview, movie star Chris Pine talks about Wonder Woman, Quentin Tarantino, superhero roles, roles he's passed on, flip phones, and the possibility of collaborating with Bill Hader.

Followed by a second interview with screenwriter G.O. Parsons (Willy's Wonderland). A 15 year overnight success story, playwright and actor G.O. Parsons, managed to get his script into the hands of one of the most bankable movie stars on earth. The movie follows a drifter played by Nicolas Cage who takes a job as a janitor at a family entertainment center. Unknowingly he’s walking into a trap where he’s meant to be sacrificed to the venues demonic animatronic mascots.

Claude's also joined by his producer and co-host, Winston Carter (Twitter/Instagram) to chat about the development of the show.

Please rate, subscribe and comment. There are more fantastic episodes of Things Are Going Great For Me premiering every Thursday. Featuring interviews with Melissa Fumero, Baron Vaughn, Chantal Thuy, Rightor Doyle, Clarke Peters, Sara Paxton, Brandon Scott, Christine Woods, Tembi Locke, Vinny Chhibber...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

Things Are Going Great For Me with J. Claude Deering (Trailer) Aug 21, 2020

Tune in every Wednesday, wherever you get your podcasts from. Featuring conversations with movie stars, TV stars, famous podcast hosts, and even some bright shining Broadway stars. Including Chris Pine, Clarke Peters, Melissa Fumero, Patrick J. Adams, Ali Stroker, Sarah Levy, Baron Vaughn, Jim O'Heir, Chantal Thuy, Ira Madison III, Rightor Doyle, Sara Paxton...and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thingsaregoinggreatforme/support

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