Best Robyn Lester Podcasts (2025)

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Solo Michelle Episode 5 (Finale) - Small Steps and the Path of Least Resistance 21:03

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34m ago21:03

21:03

In this final solo episode, Michelle shares how effective it can be to combine taking small steps and following your path of least resistance when it comes to accomplishing big changes, goals, or projects. Recorded on November 6th, 2025 Timestamps: [0:20] Intro [1:05] Main topic [5:29] My musical path of least resistance [7:40] Main topic continued…

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Solo Michelle Episode 4 - 5 Tips for Learning Something New 21:24

7d ago21:24

21:24

Inspired by her recent adventures with cooking and baking, Michelle shares 5 tips to help you when you’re learning something new. Recorded on October 30th, 2025 Timestamps: [0:20] Intro [3:03] Tip 1: Plan and prepare [5:49] Tip 2: Enjoy the process [9:56] Tip 3: Don't be afraid to make mistakes [12:17] Tip 4: Use resources and also develop your own…

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Solo Michelle Episode 3 - Art as Self-Care 20:51

14d ago20:51

20:51

In this solo episode, Michelle makes the case for why engaging in art is an important form of self-care. Recorded on October 23rd, 2025 Timestamps: [0:20] Intro [0:52] Art as self-care [8:07] Self-care is about feeling better [14:11] If you're feeling resistance [15:53] I'm giving you permission [16:53] Taking in art [18:23] Conclusion and final th…

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Solo Michelle Episode 2 - It's Okay to Change Your Mind 26:39

24d ago26:39

26:39

Michelle returns for another solo episode to reflect on why changing our minds can be a challenge and when it’s important to lean into change. Recorded on October 16th, 2025 Timestamps: [0:19] Intro [1:34] Story 1 [6:28] New lesson and mentorship offers [17:41] Story 2 [25:06] Outro Resources, references, and further exploration: Blog post - What I…

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Solo Michelle Episode 1 - Musical Flourishing and Music Mentorship 30:34

2M ago30:34

30:34

In this solo episode, Michelle shares her current thoughts on musical flourishing and her new music mentorship offerings. Recorded on September 2nd, 2025 Resources, references, and further exploration: ”How I Healed My Relationship With Music” - Blog Post by Michelle: https://www.michellemonettemusic.com/post/how-i-healed-my-relationship-with-music…

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Episode 36 - Change (Season 1 Finale) 1:36:44

11M ago1:36:44

1:36:44

In our season one finale, we tackle the topic of change—how do we handle our everchanging lives and selves, and how might be approach making changes in an effective way? Our conversation leads us to discussions on grief, articulating our needs, and how to better support people. Robyn goes to see the Trans Siberian Orchestra and Michelle loves that …

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Episode 35 - Rest 1:03:16

12M ago1:03:16

1:03:16

In a society that lionizes “hustling” and “the grind”, rest can feel like a revolution. In this episode, we talk about the different types of rest, why rest is important, and how we think about it in our own lives. We also dive into why modern work isn’t working for our brains and how it makes it harder for us to rest and recover the way we need. R…

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Episode 34 - Self-Love 1:15:15

12M ago1:15:15

1:15:15

This episode was inspired by Michelle’s reading of Matthew Hussey’s book Love Life. We share our thoughts on self-love and explore some of Matthew’s ideas on self-love. Robyn gets some more sleep and Michelle goes to see Jordan Rakei. Recorded on November 10th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:20) Intro (0:47) Robyn’s check-in (4:28) Michelle’s check-in (11:20)…

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#213 - Take A Bow Rundown 35:20

1y ago35:20

35:20

Tune is as Eli Tokash takes you through the hottest topics on Broadway. Hear all about Maybe Happy Ending, The Broadway league, the tradition of dimming the lights on Broadway's marquees, Jeremy Jordan's next show, Grammy Nominations, and so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Episode 33 - Acceptance and Managing Expectations 54:18

1y ago54:18

54:18

In this episode, we discuss the role acceptance plays in being able to manage the expectations we have about ourselves and our lives. Robyn says “yes, and” to more acting and improv classes, and Michelle finishes writing a song. Recorded on November 3rd, 2024 Timestamps: (0:20) Intro (0:48) Robyn’s Check-In (3:17) Michelle’s Check-In (13:23) Main t…

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#212 - Robyn Hurder 1:36:13

1y ago1:36:13

1:36:13

Tony Nominee, Robyn Hurder joins us to Take A Bow ahead of a MAJOR announcement and the annual Broadway spooky season celebration I Put A Spell On You! In this episode, hear all about: Moulin Rouge The fandom Chicago A Beautiful Noise The Broadway Community Gavin Creel Dancing How she learned to sing Being A Mom Showgirl to leading lady and feeling…

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WE'RE BACK! 21:40

1y ago21:40

21:40

Host, Eli Tokash, reveals Take A Bow is back and is excited for the next "season" of Take A Bow, beginning tomorrow with Tony Nominee, Robyn Hurder! Hear about his current favorite show recommendation, Safety Not Guaranteed, why the hiatus, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Episode 32 - Self-Sabotage: How We Keep Ourselves Stuck 1:00:19

1y ago1:00:19

1:00:19

In this episode, we discuss the ways we unintentionally hold ourselves back. We explore the importance of understanding ourselves when it comes to addressing unhelpful patterns, and share some of the things we might tell ourselves that repeatedly get in our way. Robyn rewatches Buffy and Michelle still loves her Kindle. Recorded on October 6th, 202…

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Episode 31 - Our Favourite Stories 1:24:59

1y ago1:24:59

1:24:59

Following on the heels of our last episode on stories, this week, we’re each sharing a few of our own favourite stories. We also share a quick overview of the songs from our September playlist. Robyn starts acting classes and Michelle loves her new Kindle. Recorded on September 22nd, 2024 Timestamps: (0:20) Intro (1:03) Robyn’s check-in (9:29) Mich…

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Episode 30 - Stories 1:09:14

1y ago1:09:14

1:09:14

Story time! We all love a good story, and in this episode, we explore why storytelling is such an important part of being human. We also also consider in what ways stories can work against us, and what constitutes a good story. Robyn arranges flowers and befriends Disney characters, and Michelle (finally!) cleans out her filing cabinet. Recorded on…

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#211 - Julia Lester 1:07:48

1y ago1:07:48

1:07:48

Tony Nominee, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series star Julia Lester comes to Take A Bow where she shares how her built in love for Musical Theater changed her life. In this episode, hear all about: Into The Woods I Can Get It To You Wholesale HSMTMTS Fan-girling over cast mates Sara Bareilles Joe Serafini, Joshua Bassett, and Olivia Rodrig…

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Episode 29 - Challenge Deep Dive 1:19:15

1y ago1:19:15

1:19:15

Life is full of challenges so in today’s episode, we each share a challenge we’re currently facing and what we’re doing to work through them. Robyn practices positivity and Michelle shares some appreciation for Mel Robbins. Recorded on August 25th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:18) Intro (0:57) Robyn’s check-in (5:37) Michelle’s check-in (8:29) Positivity (1…

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#210 - Echo Picone 1:02:52

1y ago1:02:52

1:02:52

Musical theatre, Voice, and Tik Tok star Echo Picone comes to Take A Bow where she shares how Sesame Street began her never-ending love for singing and music. In this episode, hear all about: Trevor off-Broadway Watching herself on Disney+ Pinkalicious Understanding your voice Impressions TikTok Creating trends Songwriting Riffing 16 years old (for…

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Episode 28 - Nostalgia 1:35:58

1y ago1:35:58

1:35:58

Those were the days! In this episode, we explore nostalgia—how we experience it, and how it can get in the way of us being fully present and embodied in the moment. We also discuss the Olympics, gratitude, some of our favourite nostalgia triggers. Robyn is inspired by Céline Dion’s comeback performance and Michelle starts a morning walking routine.…

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#209 - Ana Villafañe LIVE at BroadwayCon 1:31:01

1+ y ago1:31:01

1:31:01

In this episode, hear all about: Making her Broadway Debut On Your Feet on Broadway Influence of Gloria Estefan Meeting at the White House N/A the play Working with Diane Paulus Working with Holland Taylor Being a fan while being a professional in the industry Her process to approaching a role Performing in Sinatra in the West End The importance of…

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Episode 27 - Artistic Identity 59:41

1+ y ago59:41

59:41

In this episode, we attempt to tackle the topic of artistic identity. What is it? When is adopting an artistic identity helpful, and when might it become an issue? Robyn’s dog turns to a life of crime, and Michelle is having a hard time writing the lyrics for a song. Recorded on July 20th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:30) Intro (0:46) Robyn’s fun/interestin…

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#208 - Blake Roman 1:35:01

1+ y ago1:35:01

1:35:01

We are in the presence of an ANGEL (DUST)! What a joy to be able to witness the emergence of Blake Roman who has accomplished it all in such a short amount of time. In just the past 2 years he starred as a leading role on Broadway, stars in a hit animated tv show, released his own music, and so much more. If you aren't already on the Blake Roman fa…

1
Episode 26 - Regret and "Shoulds" 1:30:09

1+ y ago1:30:09

1:30:09

In this episode, we explore regrets and “shoulds”. We consider in what ways they’re related, how they hold us back, and what perspectives might help us to live our lives more on our own terms. Robyn organizes her closet and Michelle goes to the movies. Recorded on July 14th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:28) Intro (0:50) Robyn’s win, challenge, and fun/inter…

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#207 - Jimmy Award Finalist Peter Dessert and Mackenzie Crawford 1:40:10

1+ y ago1:40:10

1:40:10

In this episode, hear all about: Jimmy Awards Rehearsing at Julliard Performing "I love Betsy" in front of Andrew Barth Feldman after his iconic performance that won the Jimmy's Being a tall girl in musical theater Biggest takeaways from the week of "bootcamp" How many times have they watched the full show after having their Broadway Debut taped Th…

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Episode 25 - 2024 Midpoint Check-In 1:21:24

1+ y ago1:21:24

1:21:24

In this episode, we reflect on the first six months of 2024 and share our plans for the rest of the year. Robyn has a successful art show (despite getting rained out!) and Michelle rekindles her love of reading. Recorded on June 30th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:33) Intro (0:52) Robyn’s win, challenge, and fun/interesting thing (3:57) Michelle’s win, chall…

1
#206 - Marc Bruni 1:42:22

1+ y ago1:42:22

1:42:22

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Broadway Podcast Network

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#205 - Eden Espinosa 39:43

1+ y ago39:43

39:43

In this episode, hear all about: Eden's 1st Tony Nomination Lempicka Rent Wicked Understudying her idol, Idina Menzel Playing her dream role in RENT Preparing for her Tony Nominated performance in Lempicka Taking paint classes to learn how to hold a brush Telling a queer story What it's like to be in shows where cast mates idolize her. + So much mo…

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Episode 24 - Five of Our Favourite Creatives 1:39:57

1+ y ago1:39:57

1:39:57

In this episode, we each share five of our favourite creatives. Our conversation also delves into the benefits of laying out your influences, originality, and being part of an artistic lineage. Robyn gets hangry at a Renaissance fair and Michelle starts her drawing journey. Recorded on June 8th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:30) Intro (1:01) Michelle’s check…

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#204 - Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer 1:00:17

1+ y ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In this episode, hear all about: 1st Tony Nomination Spamalot Improvisation Balancing comedy with high stakes How to read your audience to not cross a line with a joke The Creation of Lady of the Lake: The Farewell Tour Live Show at Joe's Pub Alex Brightman creating cults Beetlejuice Indebted to a fan base + So much more! Curtain up, Leslie Rodrigu…

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Episode 23 - Setting Up Your Creative Environment 59:43

1+ y ago59:43

59:43

Being intentional about how we set up our creative spaces can help keep us inspired to make art. In this episode, we suggest ways to make your creative space work for you, explore why creating in solitude might not be necessary for everyone, and why it’s important to not let less-than-ideal circumstances stop you from creating. Robyn continues her …

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#203 - Diego Lucano 1:34:12

1+ y ago1:34:12

1:34:12

In this episode, hear all about: Journey to becoming a performer/storyteller How he grew up in this industry School of Rock Working with Alex Brightman Trevor on Disney+ Filming a new TV Show in Paris Sing Street Becoming an award nominated actor Broadway Star Project Actors Tool Kit + So much more! Curtain up, Diego Lucano Connect with Diego Lucan…

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Episode 22 - Building a Creative Habit 1:00:29

1+ y ago1:00:29

1:00:29

In this episode, we tackle the topic of building a creative habit. We start by examining how habits work, with the help of James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, and then offer five strategies to help you get started building your own. Robyn plays Stardew Valley and Michelle begins a full life slow overhaul. Recorded on May 12th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:30)…

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#202 - CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB 1:33:10

1+ y ago1:33:10

1:33:10

Velkommen, bienvenue! Welcome to the Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club! That's right, we are bring the Kit Kat Club to you as we talk to the cast, creatives, and Broadway's biggest celebrities ahead of the opening night. Hear the behind the scenes inside scoop to a show like never before. From what it was like to bring a production from the UK to the US,…

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#201 - TONY NOMINATION RECAP 51:25

1+ y ago51:25

51:25

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Broadway Podcast Network

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Episode 21 - Mentally Regrouping - Part 2 44:40

1+ y ago44:40

44:40

Part two of our mental regroup episode. We pick up where episode 20 left off, sharing ideas for the podcast, identifying the problem with routines, and exploring why so many of us are struggling these days. Robyn prepares for a trip and Michelle longs for a life overhaul. Recorded on April 20th, 2024 Timestamps: (1:07) Podcast book club (3:13) Crea…

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Episode 20 - Mentally Regrouping - Part 1 58:16

1+ y ago58:16

58:16

In this episode, we give ourselves a chance to mentally regroup. Our conversation touches on multiple topics, including why we feel like we have to fill up all our time with work, the interconnection of art and personal growth, and solving the right problems. Recorded on April 20th, 2024 Timestamps: (0:28) Intro (1:14) Robyn’s week (3:50) We don’t …

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Episode 19 - Courage 1:21:20

1+ y ago1:21:20

1:21:20

We know all too well how much fear holds us back—both in art and in life. But what can we do to overcome it? In this episode, we talk about courage. We explore the difference between loud and quiet courage, discuss how courage looks different for everyone, and share ways to cultivate it in our lives. Robyn is feeling the effects of not sleeping eno…

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Listen Now - Singular Sensation: The Podcast 10:33

1+ y ago10:33

10:33

Join us for an extraordinary deep dive inside the most transformative decade on Broadway through gripping behind-the-scenes accounts of shows such as Sunset Boulevard, Rent, Angels in America, Chicago, The Lion King, and The Producers - shows that changed the history of the American theater. Host Michael Riedel, author of the best-selling book Sing…

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#200 - Matthew Morrison 1:31:48

1+ y ago1:31:48

1:31:48

OUR WHITE WHALE GUEST! He's here! The only one person in the world who could be our guest for episode 200. Matthew Morrison. He has graced both the screen and stage for many years. He is an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Award nominee (among many other award nominations and wins). You know him for playing the role of Mr. Will Schuester in Glee. I kno…

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Episode 18 - Imposter Syndrome 1:23:59

1+ y ago1:23:59

1:23:59

Imposter syndrome is a frustrating obstacle many of us struggle to overcome. Our conversation this week stretches wide and goes deep as we explore how imposter syndrome has held us back and what we might do to help us move forward in our lives and art. Robyn ups her social media game and Michelle’s artist date plans are thwarted by a sudden cold. R…

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#199 - Amber Ardolino 1:12:41

1+ y ago1:12:41

1:12:41

After her rise to stardom on social media, Amber Ardolino is proving she has the talent to lead a Broadway Company in A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical. After appearing in the ensembles of Hamilton and Head Over Heels, she understudied Satine in Moulin Rouge where she showed her first glimpse of her triple threat abilities. She then conti…

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Episode 17 - Inspiration 1:17:43

1+ y ago1:17:43

1:17:43

As artists, we often long for the thrilling feeling of being deeply inspired. But are our current ideas about inspiration actually doing us a disservice? In this episode, we share the ways we find inspiration and explore how thinking about it differently might be to our benefit. Robyn practices pushing past her fear of rejection and Michelle realiz…

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#198 - Sam Pauly 1:01:40

1+ y ago1:01:40

1:01:40

After her Breakout performance on Broadway by originating the role of Katherine Howard in SIX: The Musical, Samantha Pauly comes to Take A Bow a day before she returns to Broadway at the Broadway Theater in the Great Gatsby. Sam chats with us right before heading to a call time for tech in her opening week of her first show in a brand new musical. …

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Episode 16 - How We Approach Learning Art and Music 1:43:23

1+ y ago1:43:23

1:43:23

With so many different ways to approach learning art and music (or any craft, for that matter), we decided to share how we each think about it. We explore how our approaches have differed—while still serving us on each of our journeys—and offer some suggestions to help listeners find their own way through art or music. Robyn celebrates a website wi…

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#197 - Jared Goldsmith 1:22:56

1+ y ago1:22:56

1:22:56

Hear all about: Journey to becoming a performer/storyteller Growing up auditioning Touring with Dear Evan Hansen Having their Broadway moment Adjusting to eight shows a week What working with Ben Platt, Jordan Fisher, etc. taught him Voice Over/Commercial acting TikTok Sephora Musical Advice for performers to gain exposure and allow social media to…

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Episode 15 - Routines 1:33:22

1+ y ago1:33:22

1:33:22

This week's episode is all about routines. We explore the benefits of maintaining a consistent routine, share the routines we’ve built, and offer suggestions for how to build one of your own. Robyn finds a way to enjoy cooking and Michelle rants about misleading YouTube guitar ads. Recorded on March 17th, 2024 Timestamps: Intro [0:29] Robyn's week …

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#196 - Mia Sinclair Jenness 1:45:10

1+ y ago1:45:10

1:45:10

EMMY Award Winner and Broadway star, Mia Sinclair Jenness joins us to Take A Bow and bares all about her journey through growing up in the Entertainment industry. This episode has it all from education, memories, advice, and tons of laughs. From open call to the EMMYs, to reminiscing of growing up on Broadway. Hear all about: Journey to becoming a …

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Mini Episode PSA 8:00

1+ y ago8:00

8:00

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Broadway Podcast Network

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Episode 14 - Fear of Failure 1:20:15

1+ y ago1:20:15

1:20:15

Last week’s conversation about the fear of success inspired us to tackle the topic of fear of failure as well. We look at the ways it holds us back and how reframing the term failure can make us more willing to make mistakes. Robyn heads back to work full time and Michelle begins her Artist’s Way journey. Recorded on March 10th, 2024 Timestamps: In…

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Episode 13 - Fear of Success 1:19:48

1+ y ago1:19:48

1:19:48

We hear a lot about the fear of success, but what is it really? In this episode, we explore how it manifests for each of us and consider how to push forward in spite of it. Robyn has fun playing in Notion and Michelle looks forward to returning to normal after RPM. Recorded on March 3rd, 2024 Timestamps: Intro [0:29] Robyn's previous week [0:47] Mi…