Matt Koplik is the most opinionated, foul-mouthed, and passionate theatre geek with access to a mic. Every week, Matt and a guest explore Broadway history by diving into the careers of the artists who shaped it. Whether discussing Sondheim and Sweeney or Herman and Dolly, Matt is sure to give you fun facts, deep analysis, and lots of four letter words. Tune in!!
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Broadway Breakdown Podcasts
Hi, new bestie. You'll never feel alone again.
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We're Sean "Down Goes Brown" McIndoe of The Athletic and Ryan Lambert of EP Rinkside and this is a hockey podcast, in the sense that we talk about hockey, both on the ice and about fan culture. That’s the “puck.” This is also a podcast about movies, TV, fast food, life lessons and general idiocy. That’s the “soup.” Unless you ordered the minestrone.
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Winner of a 2024 Gold Signal Award, 'Brown & Black' is a podcast at the intersection of race and pop culture. Hosted by Jack Rico (Latino) and Mike Sargent (Black), two nationally recognized film and culture critics, provide a multicultural perspective missing from mainstream media today. Through interviews with filmmakers, artists, and journalists, the show explores the complex relationship between race and entertainment.
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The Creative College Journey with Scott Barnhardt is a the perfect companion podcast for creatives, families and student artists who are seeking advice and inspiration on how to navigate life after high school (be that through trade school, community college, 4-year universities, private training or direct to industry pathways) in today's uncertain economy and world. Sit with Scott Barnhardt, (Independent Educational Consultant, professional actor from Broadway original casts of The Book of ...
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Five Broadway women in a Helplessness Therapy group are suddenly transformed into Superheroes by a mysterious accident in the Columbia University physics lab next door. Led by their octogenarian therapist, Frieda, they learn to use their new superpowers to battle the evil organization, ORWELL, bent on destroying Democracy worldwide. All while pursuing personal growth. With the All-Star Broadway Repertory Company, featuring: Lucie Arnaz, Judy Blazer, Donna Lynne Champlin, Jason Graae, Kevin I ...
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Is Off-Broadway’s MEXODUS the Next 'Hamilton'?
42:48
42:48
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42:48Did you know The Underground Railroad went South and America spent 200 years hiding it? In this episode, we talk to Nygel Robinson and Brian Quijada, creators of the Off-Broadway musical MEXODUS, which reveals how 10,000 enslaved people escaped to Mexico between 1829-1865. This history of Black and Latino solidarity has never been brought to the st…
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Is Everyone F***ed and is the Whole World Broken? feat. Ali Astrid Moto
1:18:36
1:18:36
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1:18:36If you’ve ever doomscrolled yourself into an existential spiral, wondered if the world is going to hell, or felt like dating apps have made human connection extinct… you’re not alone. In this raw, hilarious, and surprisingly grounding conversation, Ali Astrid Moto and I ask the big messy questions: Is everyone f***ed? and is the world actually brok…
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Spike Lee, Denzel, and the Black Film Marketing Problem
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35:01
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35:01Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, two of Hollywood’s biggest stars, reunite for A24's Highest 2 Lowest (in theaters August 15). But you wouldn’t know it from the marketing. Its low-profile rollout has people asking: is this racism or just business? And will the burden of promoting the film fall once again on Black moviegoers? Episode Summary: • Is u…
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Sean and Ryan talk about how little is going on, unsigned RFAs, olympic camps, and more. Sponsored by Raycon (buyraycon.com/puck) and Mint Mobile (mintmobile.com/puck)
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Mini RNE: Come back to this when you need it
6:23
6:23
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6:23By Macaile Hutt
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The Illusion of Getting It Right feat. Shai Schechter
1:06:41
1:06:41
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1:06:41Shai Schechter launched his first online business at just 10 years old, the first in a series of tech and event businesses that led to co-founding RightMessage in 2017. After steering RightMessage through a six-year roller coaster of raising capital, building a team, nearly going under, then finding stability and growth and a sale, he stepped off t…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the slow trade market, RFA signings, and more. Sponsored by Raycon (buyraycon.com/puck) and Mint Mobile (mintmobile.com/puck)
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How can the Latino star of Disney's Andor, the best-reviewed show in the Star Wars franchise, be snubbed by the Emmys? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on how the voting process really works from the inside. We’re also asking some hard questions: Why are Latinos showing up in record numbers, yet the nomination process doesn't reward them? …
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Between What Was and What Is: Finding Life After Loss with Ashley Southard
1:11:28
1:11:28
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1:11:28Ashley Southard is a devoted military widow, mother, and fierce truth-teller whose story has touched hearts across the internet. After losing her husband who died serving our country, Ashley has shared not just her grief but also her incredible path of healing, rediscovery, and standing strong in her values. Now navigating new love, motherhood, and…
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"Behold, the hills of tomorrow..." Get a taste of what's to come with this pilot episode of a new series "I Was There" talking with Broadway artists with long and rich careers, telling us their stories. First up! Conductor/Music Director/Supervisor David Loud! David has worked on such incredible productions as She Loves Me (1993), Ragtime, Master C…
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Life Is Longer Than You Think: A Conversation on Grief, Change, and Trust feat. Alex Rutkay
1:02:24
1:02:24
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1:02:24Alex Rutkay is the founder of City Mouse, a community-driven lifestyle brand born from the belief that it’s never too late to begin again. After ditching the pressure of perfect timelines and traditional definitions of success, Alex leaned into reinvention and built something magnetic. Whether it’s fashion, friendship, or finding your footing in yo…
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Summer Movies 2025: Jurassic World: Rebirth / Materialists
32:32
32:32
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32:32This July weekend, we review two of the biggest summer movies of 2025: Jurassic World: Rebirth and The Materialists. Mike breaks down why Jurassic World is stuck in a loop of reboots and clichés, even with big stars like Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali. And what would it take to save this franchise? Then Jack reviews The Materialists, a roman…
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Sean and Ryan talk about free agency, the draft, the new CBA, and more. Sponsored by Raycon (buyraycon.com/puck)
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Sleep Out: Stage and Screen for Covenant House w/ David Hovey
24:58
24:58
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24:58SURPRISE! Bonus ep! Matt talks with David Hovey about the work happening at Covenant House, as well as the starry event on August 10th Sleep Out: Stage and Screen event. Learn more about Covenant House Here! https://www.covenanthouse.org/ Donate to Matt's Fundraising Page Here! https://www.sleepout.org/participants/61110 Learn more about Sleep Out:…
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Befriending the Nervous System feat. Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapist Abigail Freer
1:03:52
1:03:52
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1:03:52In this episode, I’m joined by Abigail from Sol Therapy. A licensed therapist, educator, and somatic guide who helps people reconnect with their bodies and rewrite the old narratives stored in their nervous systems. Together, we explore what it really means to befriend your nervous system, why healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself, and how early li…
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Sean and Ryan talk about all the trades, signings, and hypotheticals during draft week, the Hall of Fame, and more.
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You’re Exactly Where You’re Meant to Be: A Solo with Macaile
57:05
57:05
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57:05This solo episode is a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt behind. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Shouldn’t I be further along by now?” this one’s for you. Macaile peels back the layers of timelines, comparison traps, and societal standards to remind you that you are exactly where you are meant to be. She shares how a seemingly…
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Why Sacrilege's Nyasha Hatendi Chose Horror to Speak His Truth
42:22
42:22
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42:22In this episode, we welcome Nyasha Hatendi, the creator, writer, director, and producer of Audible's new audio horror drama, Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi. He opens up about his motivations for creating Sacrilege, the influences behind its horror, his collaboration with actor Caleb McLaughlin from Stranger Things, and how truth and story have the …
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Sean and Ryan talk about the Panthers' repeat, the Oilers' problems, awards, Olympics, and more.
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The Grace to Grow: Healing, Marriage, and Becoming Yourself with Lagree Master Trainer Krys Cook
1:10:09
1:10:09
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1:10:09In this heart-led conversation, Macaile sits down with therapist, Lagree instructor, and military spouse Krys Cook to explore the nuanced journey of personal evolution. From navigating postpartum depression and marriage after deployment, to finding alignment in relationships and reclaiming your own identity, Krys shares with raw honesty and grounde…
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"Blue..." The 2025-2026 Broadway season kicks off with icon Jean Smart's one woman show CALL ME IZZY. Plus a production of MACHINAL, which launches the first season of the brand new New York Theatre Company. What did Matt think? Well...take a listen... Join the Broadway Breakdown Substack here! https://bwaybreakdown.substack.com/ Or the Broadway Br…
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The 2025 Tony Awards w/ Robert W. Schneider
3:11:42
3:11:42
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3:11:42"And what did YOU think of that performance...?" The 2024-2025 Broadway season has come to a close and with it, the Tony Awards. Daddy of the pod Robert W. Schneider returns to Breakdown to discuss with Matt the highs of the ceremony, debate some winners, and some tea Matt got from the Maybe Happy Ending after party! KICK IT! Wanna join the Broadwa…
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One Year of Red Nail Energy: From Breakdown to Breakthrough
57:14
57:14
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57:14Red Nail Energy started at rock bottom. It was my way of digging out of the dark when life didn’t look anything like I thought it would. One year later, this space has become a reminder that you don’t need to be chosen to be powerful. You already are. This episode is a love note to my younger self and anyone who’s ever woken up asking, "What am I d…
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Sean and Ryan talk about Game 3, coaching changes, NHL awards, and more.
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2025 Tonys: Predictions and Personal Picks w/ Sam Eckmann
2:12:12
2:12:12
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2:12:12"What I expect...what I want...and what I dream..." The 2025 Tony Awards are ALMOST HERE! This means it's time for a final, FINAL prediction episode with Awards Expert Sam Eckmann (GoldDerby). Unfortunately this has been a chaotic race and thus, Matt and Sam find themselves talking in circles convincing each other of what might happen and what they…
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'Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi': An Audio Drama Analysis
34:29
34:29
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34:29In this special sponsored episode, we're partnering with Audible for our first-ever audio drama analysis, breaking down the groundbreaking supernatural thriller "Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi" starring Caleb McLaughlin from Stranger Things. Created by Zimbabwean-American filmmaker Nyasha Hatendi, this six-episode supernatural horror audio drama fo…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the Stanley Cup Final, take a trip to Losers Corner, play a game of Best of Seven, and more. Sponsored by Raycon (buyraycon.com/puck)
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Center Stage: Broadway, Belonging, and Becoming with Broadway Actor Josh Marin
1:16:50
1:16:50
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1:16:50In this episode, Broadway actor Josh Marin (Hamilton, Book of Mormon, Rent) takes center stage to explore what it really means to see yourself in the story. From the little boy in Dallas who found his voice after watching Josh perform, to the complexities of growing up in-between cultures, this conversation is all about belonging, human connection,…
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"Ever hear about...?" Matt goes through the last couple of decades of winners to debunk and clarify some ol' Tony Awards myths...as well as discover some trends! Take a listen and win your Tony pool! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/RDs2Bz47 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the conference finals, front office changes, and more. Sponsored by Mint Mobile (mintmobile.com/puck)
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Through Her Lens: Maggie Grace on Photography, Presence & Partnership
55:06
55:06
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55:06In this episode, I sit down with photographer Maggie Grace to explore what it means to truly be seen, on both sides of the lens. We talk about the healing power of being witnessed without performance, the difference between chaos and safety in relationships, and how love that grounds you can feel foreign when you’ve spent a lifetime chasing validat…
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West End Shows/London Trip (w/ Mom!)
1:49:26
1:49:26
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1:49:26BIG NEWS! MATT GOT A NEW MIC! But he isn't quite sure if he's figured it out yet. So be patient this episode. Oh! And Matt went to London again with his mom and sister! Matt's mom joins for the first half to discuss their London adventures as well as the 5 shows they took in while staying in Fitzrovia for the week: -The Comedy About Spies, Oliver!,…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the playoff losers, the Conference Finals, coaching changes, and more.
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What If You Were Unconditionally Loved Through It All? feat. First Responder and Mental Health Advocate Makenzie Tiegs
1:17:13
1:17:13
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1:17:13In this raw and powerful episode, Makenzie opens up about the parts of her story she kept hidden for far too long; from the shame that followed a difficult decision to the moment she sat alone in her car and felt the unmistakable presence of something bigger. We talk about what it means to be truly seen, the healing that happens when we share the p…
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Ranking All 42 Broadway Shows This Season (42-23)
2:46:54
2:46:54
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2:46:54And episode so long...we have to split it in two! Matt saw Every. Single. Broadway. Show. This. Season. And my God is he gonna do the Lord's work and rank it all for you. Because why the F**K NOT?! Enjoy Part 1! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adcho…
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Ranking All 42 Broadway Shows This Season (22-1)
2:35:38
2:35:38
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2:35:38And just like that...we finished! Matt wraps up his *unofficial* ranking of every Broadway show for the 2024-2025 Broadway Season. Was it worth it??? Join the fun at the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the ongoing series of the second round, some coach and GM hires, and more. Sponsored by Mint Mobile (mintmobile.com/puck)
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From Breakdown to Breakthrough feat. Actress, Writer, & Director Adria Tennor
58:29
58:29
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58:29From Breakdown to Breakthrough with actress & director Adria Tennor is a permission slip to start over, feel the fear, and still believe in what’s next. Whether you're rebuilding after heartbreak, starting again at zero, or just questioning your timeline, this conversation is for you. The Red Nail Energy Podcast is proudly sponsored by Bees Knees W…
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Matt Reviews REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES, OLD FRIENDS and DEAD OUTLAW
1:46:32
1:46:32
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1:46:32And a few other shows, actually... Matt saw a whole bunch of stuff. Not just what's in the title. He also saw WONDERFUL TOWN at Encores, the final performance of ZORBA at J2 Spotlight and had a second viewing of DEATH BECOMES HER. It's a lot! Maybe he said some coherent things? Let's see! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!: https://d…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the start of the second round, all the teams that lost in the first one, coaching changes, the draft lottery, and more. Sponsored by Raycon (buyraycon.com/puck) and Mint Mobile (mintmobile.com/puck)
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Still Here: Finding Signs, Strength, and Self After Loss feat. September Frogley from Connection is the Cure
1:26:24
1:26:24
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1:26:24September is the heart behind Connection is the Cure, a movement dedicated to linking individuals to vital mental health resources and fostering genuine human connections. Through community events, heartfelt conversations, and advocacy, she champions the belief that no one should navigate their struggles alone. September's mission is clear: to crea…
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Is Ryan Coogler's 'SINNERS' Too Black for Hollywood?
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34:32This week we deconstruct Ryan Coogler’s SINNERS from a Latino and Black perspective. It's a film that is creating deep cultural conversations about Black originality and the business of Black culture globally. We explore its cultural symbolism, audience reactions, Variety's media bias, and the troubling Asian release rollout that may hint at anti-B…
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Tony Nominations are Here!!! (2025) w/ The Theater Lovers
2:44:42
2:44:42
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2:44:42"Where's the pudding at?!" The 2025 Tony nominations have arrived! And boy are there THOUGHTS. Joining Matt is Breakdown friends Rachael and Will Anderson aka The Theater Lovers!! Listen to their thoughts on the whole slew of nominations, Taylor Swift lore, and a new series of movies Matt plans to make. Enjoy! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Ch…
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2025 Tony Nominations: FInal Predictions
1:34:03
1:34:03
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1:34:03'Cause why the f**k not?! Let's be bold and brave with the Tony nominations before the big announcement day! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/bbcbvZau Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Matt Koplik
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Sean and Ryan talk about all the ongoing series, Mike Sullivan getting fired(?), and more.
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Matt Reviews FLOYD COLLINS, PIRATES! & JUST IN TIME
1:35:01
1:35:01
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1:35:01"This is IT!" Matt saw SOOOO much Broadway this week, he couldn't fit it all into one episode. So, he's chosen to cover LCT's revival of FLOYD COLLINS, Roundabout's revisal of PIRATES and 54 Below's...sorry, Broadway's JUST IN TIME. Listen! Discuss! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!!! https://discord.gg/bbcbvZau Learn more about you…
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Before the Yes: The Soulful Art of Decision-Making, a solo with Macaile
1:04:43
1:04:43
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1:04:43In this episode, we’re talking about the art (and sometimes chaos) of making decisions. From the micro to the life-altering. If you’ve ever gotten stuck in the "what ifs" or rewrote a text five times trying to make the “right” move… this one’s for you. We’ll explore the stages of decision-making (spoiler: pre-contemplation is a whole mood), why we …
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2025 Tony Noms: Listener Predictions
1:11:14
1:11:14
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1:11:14"And what do YOU think of pudding?" Matt scans the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel to get a sense of what listeners feel are likely to get nominated at the 2025 Tony Awards. And the responses are something!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/FqnJwJrr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoice…
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Sean and Ryan talk about the playoffs series by series, all the coaching vacancies, and more.
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Safe Enough to Be Seen, Brave Enough to Be Heard feat. Lacey Heward
1:23:38
1:23:38
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1:23:38What if your safety, your softness, your being was the whole point? Lacey Heward invites us into a conversation about worth, vulnerability, and what it means to truly see one another. A powerful one you won’t forget. Special Guest Host Ali Astrid Moto Connect with Lacey: Website The Red Nail Energy Podcast is proudly sponsored by Bees Knees Wellnes…
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