Five Minute Call is a podcast that takes a deep dive into the stories of the people that make theatre happen. Hosted by Claire Underwood and Oren Boder, we pull back the curtain to explore their truths, life lessons, inspiring narratives, and hard-earned wisdom from our guests. Enjoy a unique peek behind the glitz and glamour of the stage, screen, and studio as we sit down with some of the most influential figures in the arts world - from groundbreaking performers and visionary directors, to astute casting agents, crew, and everyone in between.
Thomas Vernal - From The Streets To The West End and Beyond
This is Thomas Vernal.In this episode of the Five Minute Call, we dive into the incredible story of Thomas Vernal, an actor whose path to the West End stage was anything but traditional. This conversation highlights Thomas' journey from being an R&B singer in Birmingham to performing in major productions like The Book of Mormon and Hamilton. Thomas opens up about overcoming adversity, his unique path into theatre, his experiences with music and performance, and the challenges he faced along the way. This episode is packed with insights, humour, and inspiring moments that showcase Thomas’s resilience and passion for the performing arts. Don't miss it!🎧 Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Introduction00:26 Meet Thomas Vernal: From Birmingham to the West End01:17 Early Life and Musical Beginnings02:20 Discovering Theatre and Overcoming Challenges07:57 Touring with Major Artists14:07 Struggles and Successes in the Music Industry30:10 Transition to Security and New Beginnings33:27 Working with Family in Security33:45 Celebrity Security and Observant Skills36:05 Life's Visibility and Inquisitiveness39:56 Pursuing a Career in the Arts40:15 Challenges and Determination43:31 Homelessness and Theatre Training49:41 Theatre Experiences and Reflections54:39 The Magic of Theatre Spaces57:26 Final Thoughts and Funny Memories❤️ Support The ShowDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for notifications! Your support helps us bring you more amazing stories from the theatre world.And you can listen to more episodes on your favourite podcasting platform. Links at: https://linkin.bio/fiveminutecall🤝 Connect With UsFollow us on social media - search "Five Minute Call"https://www.instagram.com/FiveMinuteCallhttps://www.tiktok.com/@yourfiveminutecallOren:https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoderhttps://www.orenboder.comClaire:https://www.instagram.com/showmindshttps://www.showminds.coThomas:https://www.instagram.com/thomasvernal/☕️ VocaliteaThis episode is kindly sponsored by Vocalitea, the secret to vocal clarity in a cup. Vocalitea is more than just a beverage; it's a holistic approach to vocal care. Developed by award-winning voice experts and master tea blenders, each ingredient has been carefully selected to help you soothe and take care of your voice. Get yours at: https://vocalitea.co.uk 🎗️Get HelpIf you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.In the first instance, helplines:Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:https://www.applauseforthought.comhttps://www.industryminds.co.ukhttps://www.mind.org.uk
31 Mar 2025
The Journey of Theatre Company Manager Katy Bryant | The Five Minute Call Podcast
This is Katy Bryant.In this episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Katy Bryant, who has worked on over 30 shows, including Hamilton, Mary Poppins, and Les Misérables as a Company Manager. Katie shares her journey into the industry, the challenges she faced, and how she focuses on creating a positive environment in theater. We also touch on her experiences with mental health initiatives in the theatrical world post-pandemic and how she balances her professional and personal life. Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of theatre's behind-the-scenes heroes.🎧 Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:06 Meet Katy Bryant03:01 Katy's Early Career and Education07:50 First Steps in Stage Management10:08 Breaking into the Industry11:42 The Role of a Company Manager21:56 Transition to Production31:41 First Company Manager Position36:19 Reflecting on Career Decisions36:47 Busy Years at the Queen's Theatre37:11 Personal Challenges38:45 Involvement in the Olympics40:57 Handling Disappointments and Delivering Bad News43:39 The Importance of Fairness and Communication48:14 Post-Pandemic Changes in Theatre Management51:58 The Role of Mental Health in the Industry53:11 Returning to Work and New Initiatives01:06:27 The Five Minute Call and Daily Challenges01:08:43 Heroes and Inspirations01:10:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts❤️ Support The ShowDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for notifications! Your support helps us bring you more amazing stories from the theatre world.And you can listen to more episodes on your favourite podcasting platform. Links at: https://linkin.bio/fiveminutecall🤝 Connect With UsFollow us on social media - search "Five Minute Call"https://www.instagram.com/FiveMinuteCallhttps://www.tiktok.com/@yourfiveminutecallOren:https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoderhttps://www.orenboder.comClaire:https://www.instagram.com/showmindshttps://www.showminds.co☕️ VocaliteaThis episode is kindly sponsored by Vocalitea, the secret to vocal clarity in a cup. Vocalitea is more than just a beverage; it's a holistic approach to vocal care. Developed by award-winning voice experts and master tea blenders, each ingredient has been carefully selected to help you soothe and take care of your voice. Get yours at: https://vocalitea.co.uk 🎗️Get HelpIf you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.In the first instance, helplines:Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:https://www.applauseforthought.comhttps://www.industryminds.co.ukhttps://www.mind.org.uk
17 Mar 2025
Shan Ako: From X-Factor to Les Mis and Hamilton, The Shan Vibe, and more
This is Shan Ako.In this episode we dive into the inspiring story of Shan Ako, known for her standout roles as Eponine in 'Les Misérables' and Eliza in 'Hamilton.' Shan recounts her musical journey, from singing at home with her family as a child to touring in Whitney Houston and Motown tribute shows, and her breakout on X Factor. She also discusses the significance of mental health for performers, her studies in psychology, and the launch of her book, 'The Shan Vibe.' Hear about her experiences, her growth, her challenges, and the lessons she's learned along the way.🎧 Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Shan Akko's Journey01:12 Early Musical Influences and Education05:21 Touring and Tribute Shows08:40 Breakthrough with X Factor10:29 Landing Roles in Les Mis and Hamilton15:25 The Art of Performance and Practice27:09 Connecting with the Audience29:15 Teamwork and Overcoming Challenges30:00 Sponsored by Vocality30:39 Studio vs. Live Performance32:26 Bringing Personal Touch to Roles35:09 Balancing Creative Inputs44:27 Mental Health and Performance51:55 The Shan Vibe Journey01:00:00 Final Thoughts and Advice❤️ Support The ShowDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for notifications! Your support helps us bring you more amazing stories from the theatre world.And you can listen to more episodes on your favourite podcasting platform. Links at: https://linkin.bio/fiveminutecall🤝 Connect With UsFollow us on social media - search "Five Minute Call"https://www.instagram.com/FiveMinuteCallhttps://www.tiktok.com/@yourfiveminutecallOren:https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoderhttps://www.orenboder.comClaire:https://www.instagram.com/showmindshttps://www.showminds.coShan Ako:https://www.instagram.com/shanofficially☕️ VocaliteaThis episode is kindly sponsored by Vocalitea, the secret to vocal clarity in a cup. Vocalitea is more than just a beverage; it's a holistic approach to vocal care. Developed by award-winning voice experts and master tea blenders, each ingredient has been carefully selected to help you soothe and take care of your voice. Get yours at: https://vocalitea.co.uk 🎗️Get HelpIf you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.In the first instance, helplines:Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:https://www.applauseforthought.comhttps://www.industryminds.co.ukhttps://www.mind.org.uk
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Podcast Authority Score: 72 / 100
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80
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91
YouTube
85
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30
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