Actor and writer Jess Kaplan talks to creatives about rejection - the auditions they didn't book, the projects that fell apart, and the dreams that had to change shape. We're having real conversations - uncomfortable, hilarious, and deeply human - about what happens when our dreams don't go as planned.
Nopes and Dreams
Claim This Podcastby Jess Kaplan
5.0(13 reviews)
29 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸
Podcast Overview
Actor and writer Jess Kaplan talks to creatives about rejection - the auditions they didn't book, the projects that fell apart, and the dreams that had to change shape. We're having real conversations - uncomfortable, hilarious, and deeply human - about what happens when our dreams don't go as planned.
Language
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Publishing Since
12/25/2025
1 verified contact email on file for Nopes and Dreams
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Recent Episodes
July 9, 2026
Protect Your Inner Artist with Matt Hoverman
<div>In this episode, Jess talks to her Go-Solo teacher, mentor, and friend, Matt Hoverman. Matt is a TV writer/producer and playwright whose groundbreaking work in kids' animation (Arthur, Curious George, Fancy Nancy, Sofia the First, Firebuds, Batwheels, RoboGobo) has been recognized with an Emmy. Matt co-wrote the book for The Audience (Drama Desk Award nom. for Outstanding New Musical) – and he wrote the book for Disney Junior Dream Factory (which ran for 5 years at Disneyland Paris) and TheaterWorks USA's upcoming national tour of Clifford: The Big Red Dog, the Musical! </div> <p>As a teacher, Matt has midwived hundreds of solo shows in his popular GO-SOLO workshops including winners of five FringeNYC Best Solo Show Awards, to name just a few. Go take Matt's incredible class! </p> <p>IG: MattHoverman1</p> <p><span style="font-size: medium;">Website: Go-Solo.org</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Host: Jess Kaplan @nopesanddreamspod</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Original Music: Ariana and the Rose @Arianaandtherose</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Edited by: Peter Ney</p> <p class="MsoNormal">For more about the podcast, go to: Nopesanddreams.com</p>
July 2, 2026
Full of Possibility with Sean Conroy
<p>In this episode, Jess talks to Sean Conroy. He is a writer, stand-up, improviser, actor, and podcaster. Sean has written for Adult Swim, Comedy Central, Seeso, NBC, and ABC, and served as Head Writer and Co-Executive Producer on the cult favorite Mr. Pickles. He's performed stand-up on Conan, improvises weekly with UCB's ASSSSCAT, and is a founding member of The Swarm, UCB's original house team. He hosts Punching Up, a podcast about writing and comedy, and teaches writing and improv to the next generation of comedy creators.</p> <div> <div> <div> <p class="MsoNormal">Host: Jess Kaplan @nopesanddreamspod</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Original Music: Ariana and the Rose @Arianaandtherose</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Edited by: Peter Ney</p> <p class="MsoNormal">For more about the podcast, go to: Nopesanddreams.com</p> </div> </div> </div>
June 25, 2026
Take Risks with Clayton Farris
<div>In this episode, Jess talks to hilarious Los Angeles based actor, writer, and content creator Clayton Farris. His recent acting credits include Weapons, MaXXXine, Tul<wbr />sa King, The Pitt, and Cape Fear. Alongside his on-screen work, Clayton has built a highly engaged digital audience of over 900,000 followers across platforms through original comedic characters and sharply observed sketches about modern life. Most notably, "That One Rich Couple" is a huge viral hit on social media. What began as a fun creative outlet on Vine has grown into a natural extension of his acting career and the perfect place to develop new characters, refine his voice, and consistently showcase his range.</div> <div> </div> <div>IG: ClaytonFarris</div> <div> </div> <div>TikTok: ClaytonFarris4ever</div> <div> <div> <div> <p class="MsoNormal">Host: Jess Kaplan @nopesanddreamspod</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Original Music: Ariana and the Rose @Arianaandtherose</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Edited by: Peter Ney</p> <p class="MsoNormal">For more about the podcast, go to: Nopesanddreams.com</p> </div> </div> </div>
29 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Nopes and Dreams?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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