In a hilariously honest and insight-packed chat, Ashley Arpel Steinback and Scotty Mullen dive headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of casting—where self-tapes reign supreme, headshots lie more than dating profiles, and directors stitch together Oscar-worthy performances from actors who can barely emote past “mildly confused.” Scotty, who went from PR pro to Sharknado survivor (yes, that Sharknado), spills behind-the-scenes secrets about why casting directors don’t care if you flub a line, why the slate is just your cinematic nametag, and why you absolutely should submit that audition—even if you're wearing pajama pants and existential dread. He shares how persistence pays off, how he loves finding diamonds in non-union roughs, and how one actress went from pole-dancing villainess to hard-nosed detective, all thanks to someone believing in her talent. Oh, and Scotty’s also prepping for a summer in Spain—because nothing says “I survived casting” like tapas and siestas.

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In this engaging episode of Lox of Laughs, Ashley welcomes John Romano and he shares his multifaceted journey through comedy, music, and acting. He reflects on his experiences in stand-up comedy, the challenges of transitioning to acting, and the personal relationships that have shaped his life. The discussion also touches on the intricacies of auditioning, the evolution of the entertainment industry, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. In this engaging conversation, Ashley Arpel Steinback and John Romano delve into the intricacies of the acting industry, discussing local hiring practices, dream roles in iconic shows, and the mental health challenges faced by comedians. They share personal anecdotes about auditions, the evolution of the audition process, and provide valuable advice for aspiring actors, emphasizing the importance of preparation and resilience in the face of rejection.

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In this engaging episode, Ashley welcomes Peter Madrigal and he shares insights into his busy life, including his gym routine, daily schedule, and the unique environment of his gym. He discusses his work on Cameo, the dynamics of Vanderpump Rules, and his upcoming projects, including a new show focused on bartending competitions. The conversation also touches on personal connections, drinking habits, and the influence of Lisa Vanderpump in his life. In this engaging conversation, Peter Madrigal and Kristen Moss delve into the world of reality TV, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about their experiences in the industry. They discuss the allure of storytelling in reality television, the evolution of shows like Vanderpump Rules, and the importance of mentorship and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the casting process for reality shows and the challenges and triumphs that come with being in the spotlight. In this engaging conversation, Peter Madrigal and Kristen Moss discuss their experiences in the reality TV industry, networking opportunities, and the challenges of casting. They reflect on their personal journeys, achievements, and future plans while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in the entertainment world. The discussion also touches on culinary ventures, including Peter's cocktail creations, showcasing the intersection of food and entertainment.

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On this episode of Loxvof Laughs, Ashley welcomes vocal coach Sara Leib, who shares her journey in music, cooking, and the emotional aspects of singing. They discuss the impact of the pandemic on their lives, the importance of humor, and the joys of cooking and baking. Sarah also reflects on her experiences in the music industry, the significance of hard work versus talent, and her culinary preferences, including her love for rich desserts. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about food trends and the future of cooking.

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In part 2 of Ashley's conversation with Sami Steigmann he shares his insights on the Holocaust, discussing its historical context, the rise of anti-Semitism, and the importance of education in combating denial. He emphasizes the need for knowledge and awareness to prevent future atrocities, drawing parallels between past and present societal issues. In this conversation, Sami Steigmann shares his insights on the importance of historical awareness regarding the Holocaust and the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community today. He discusses the significance of resolutions passed at the UN, the rise of the BDS movement, and the need for a proactive response to anti-Semitism. Sami emphasizes the role of media in shaping narratives and the necessity of individual action in combating hate. He also highlights the power of cooperation and education in fostering understanding and preventing history from repeating itself.

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In this conversation, Sami Steigmann, a Holocaust survivor and motivational speaker, shares his incredible life journey, including his experiences during the Holocaust, his transition into acting, and his advocacy against hate. He reflects on his childhood, the challenges he faced, and the importance of remembering history to prevent the repetition of past atrocities. Sami emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion among individuals to combat discrimination and hatred. In this conversation, Sami Steigmann shares his profound experiences as a Holocaust survivor, discussing the impact of his childhood memories, the challenges he faced during homelessness, and the long-term effects of medical experiments he endured. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, personal responsibility, and the power of education in overcoming adversity. Sami's journey is a testament to the human spirit's ability to rise above trauma and inspire others through storytelling. In this conversation, Sami Steigmann shares his profound experiences as a Holocaust survivor, emphasizing the importance of personal stories and their impact on others. He reflects on the kindness of strangers who helped him survive, the significance of Holocaust education, and the need for young people to become upstanders against hate. The discussion also touches on his journey back to New York and the importance of being proud of one's heritage while fostering unity as Americans.

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In this thrilling episode, Ashley sits down with filmmaker Mike Pecci to discuss his creative journey, particularly his short film Come Home. They explore the power of cinematography, the emotional depth of horror films, and the art of storytelling with minimal dialogue. Mike shares his passion for horror, detailing how color, atmosphere, and subtle storytelling shape the genre.

The conversation dives into iconic horror themes, including the mysterious Lady of the Dunes, behind-the-scenes challenges in classic horror films, and the evolution of the genre. They also tackle the frustrations of modern horror, the motivations behind endless sequels, and Ryan Murphy’s influence on horror television.

Key Takeaways:

Cinematography and color play a crucial role in storytelling.

Horror films can convey deep emotional experiences beyond just scares.

The Lady of the Dunes mystery continues to intrigue filmmakers.

Many modern horror films fall short due to lackluster storytelling.

Ryan Murphy has shaped the landscape of horror television.

Mike shares how listeners can connect with him and his latest work.

Tune in for an insightful and eerie dive into the world of horror filmmaking!

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In this episode of Lox of Laughs, Ashley sits down with James DuMont for a dynamic conversation that blends food, film, and the craft of acting. From their shared love of sushi to the evolving landscape of auditions, they dive deep into the highs and lows of an acting career. James shares his insider tips on self-taping, preparation, and why auditions are more about relationships than just landing a role. This episode is a must-listen for actors, creatives, and anyone chasing their artistic vision. Don’t miss out—subscribe & follow Lox of Laughs to stay inspired!

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