Best Weird Distractions Podcasts (2025)

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68. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: A Magical Infestation and More Sanity Saving Content 32:15

Play Pause

12h ago32:15

32:15

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus and Esme bemoan the time management and merchandising requirements imposed upon them by a seasonal decorative item. Marcus explains how having a BA in English often interferes with one’s ability to just enjoy things, and Esme shares a few more examples of sanity-saving content she turns to when the news gets …

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67. The Benefits of Being Weird 1:07:41

5h ago1:07:41

1:07:41

In this week's episode, Marcus and Esme revisit the male loneliness epidemic from a very unique angle. What if men didn’t have to choose between “traditional” and “positive” masculinity. What if the solution to developing a healthy identity is to simply be . . . weird? From the dangers of the manosphere to the radicalization path algorithms push yo…

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Gatekeepers, Pushing the Line, Independent vs Mainstream, and the Limitations of Specificity - Playwright's Spotlight with Isaac Laskin 51:32

3h ago51:32

51:32

Send us a text In this episode, musical theatre playwright Isaac Laskin stopped by Playwright's Spotlight to talk about the the development and evolution of his hit L.A. musical Hey, Morgan. He dispels the rumor of being challenged to write a musical about a dear friend, how the origination started as individual standalone songs about his roommate …

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Spotting AI Text, Safer Kids' Tech with Tonies and Netflix/HBO: The Plot Twist No One Saw Coming 44:07

2d ago44:07

44:07

This week, we're unpacking a big move in entertainment: Netflix is buying Warner Bros. Discovery (yes, HBO included) and what it means for the shows we love. We'll also look at the AT&T data breach, how to tell if something you're reading was written by AI, and why Ryan Reynolds and Ricky Gervais are suddenly shaping online marketing. Plus: Marsha'…

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66. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: A Victory Lap and AI Can’t Capture Sexy Ennui 25:52

3d ago25:52

25:52

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Esme takes a victory lap as she describes how she has recently demonstrated mastery over many neurodivergent people’s greatest foe: time itself. Then, Marcus is relieved to learn Debbie Harry is okay, but is embarrassed to see how she is depicted in a random AI slop video. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Sup…

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65. Corrections, Contentions, and a Ray of Hope! 49:53

11d ago49:53

49:53

In this week's episode, Marcus and Esme take time to issue some corrections and contend with one very specific piece of feedback about the religious practices of biker gangs in Delco during the 1970s. Marcus and Esme then share some perspectives they learned at a recent parent group meeting in their daughter’s school district, and reflect on how di…

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Holiday Smarts: From Campbell's Drama to Cars That Distract Less 40:53

5d ago40:53

40:53

This week, we kick off the holiday season with a little Thanksgiving talk — and a big reminder to stay sharp. From new scam tactics targeting holiday shoppers to the surprising bioengineering controversy stirring up Campbell's Soup fans, there's plenty to unpack. We'll also walk through what to do immediately if you get one of those dreaded "data s…

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64. Thanksgiving Special: Tools of Distraction! 48:57

9d ago48:57

48:57

It’s that magical time of year when many of us travel to our points of origin to enjoy the warm fires of home, break bread with loved ones, and contend with those other family members whose untreated mental health challenges always make dinnertime interesting. In this Thanksgiving-themed episode, Marcus and Esme take time to recognize that the seas…

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Defining Weird, Living in the Creative "World", and Letting Go of Creative Control - Playwright's Spotlight with Clara Rodriguez 50:26

17d ago50:26

50:26

Send us a text Playwright Clara Rodriguez jumped into the Playwright's Spotlight in the midst of the run of her latest play - Pointy Scissors. In this discussion, we delve into the theatre company at Theatre West in Los Angeles and their Writers in Residence program. We unpack her journey into playwriting and her motivation and inspiration, the fee…

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AirDrop for Everyone, AppleTV Changes, and a Digital ID Reality Check 42:33

11d ago42:33

42:33

This week we're digging into some handy new tech tricks and a few places where you might want to pump the brakes. We talk about Google letting you AirDrop between iPhone and Pixel 10, what's really changing with AppleTV plans at T-Mobile, and Apple's limited-edition accessory that's already creating buzz. But we also take a smart look at digital dr…

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63. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: The George Harrison of the Gridiron and Sanity Saving Content 32:01

13d ago32:01

32:01

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus makes an unusual case for appreciating his favorite position on an American football team. Esme reminds us of the importance of taking breaks from the never-ending anxiety factory that is the news and shares a few of her favorite sanity saving tv shows. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Support us on Ko…

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62. Overstimulation and Other Sensory Issues 1:01:56

18d ago1:01:56

1:01:56

Marcus and Esme dive headfirst into the bane of many a neurodivergent person’s existence: overstimulation. From the chaos of department stores to the “wet, unholy cacophony” of the breakfast table, they unpack how sensory overload shows up in real life, describe their own experiences battling unwanted sensory input, and discuss coping strategies an…

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Writing the Absurd, Doubting Your Talent, and Recognizing Gifts and Weaknesses - Playwright's Spotlight with James Merolla 1:11:06

18d ago1:11:06

1:11:06

Send us a text Playwright James Merolla streamed onto Playwright's Spotlight. We had an engaging and honest conversation about his background as a director and a theatre reviewer and how that eventually led to becoming a playwright. We discuss his struggles with rejection and doubting your talent and being a late-starting and older playwright and e…

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Apple's iPhone Pocket & Google's Store-Calling AI: The Future Just Got Weird 45:05

27d ago45:05

45:05

This week, we're diving into some exciting shifts in the tech world! Apple is working on a game-changing "iPhone Pocket" that could redefine what a smartphone is carried. Google's new feature can now call retail stores on your behalf — saving you time and sanity. Starlink just got cheaper, making satellite internet more accessible than ever. Waymo …

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61. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Who’s That Lady (Doing All That Sewing)? 35:22

29d ago35:22

35:22

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Esme takes us along on her adventures learning how to use her sewing machine as part of her quest to craft the perfect pair of pants. Meanwhile, Marcus takes an ADHD-fueled plunge deep into the rabbit hole that is the Isley Brothers legendary story and back catalog. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Support us…

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60. The Hidden Link Between Hypermobility and Neurodivergence 1:04:20

1M ago1:04:20

1:04:20

Prepare to have your minds blown. Also prepare to skip the first few minutes if you don't want to hear a mini rant about John Fetterman (you will, however, be deprived of hearing what happens when you shave Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyers mascot, from head to toe). In this episode of Crazy Together, hosts Marcus and Esme dive into hypermobility and…

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AI for Siri, Tesla's New Trick, and What to Do if Your Phone Catches Fire 42:17

28d ago42:17

42:17

This week, we're talking tech safety — what to do if your phone or power bank overheats, and the Flame Detector that spots fires before they spread. Plus, Apple's surprising move to team up with Google's AI for Siri, hints of lower-cost Mac laptops, and Elon's latest Tesla feature reveal. We'll also unpack how LinkedIn is using your data, share som…

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59. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: An Assortment of Issues and a Little Bit of Johnny Cash 31:42

1M ago31:42

31:42

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus demonstrates the perils of being distracted when your doctor shares some helpful recommendations which you promptly forget. Esme then walks us through the thought process that led her to make a heartfelt and utterly unnecessary admission of guilt earlier this week. There’s also references to sewing and the mu…

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58.Celebrating Wins and Discussing What Comes Next 52:00

1M ago52:00

52:00

In this milestone episode, Marcus and Esme celebrate a full year of podcasting—reflecting on their favorite moments, standout episodes, and the impact those conversations have had. They share key lessons learned, offer a candid look at what they hope to improve, and preview topics they’re excited to explore in the coming months. To close, they invi…

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Narrative, Reversals, Mapping the Journey, and Running Away with the Circus - Playwright's Spotlight with Dietrich Smith 1:24:51

1M ago1:24:51

1:24:51

Send us a text Dietrich Smith jumped into the Playwright's Spotlight after the opening of his World Premiere adaptation of Franz Kafka's novel Amerika. We explore his background as the literary manager at the Open Fist Theatre Company and the trends he observed from submissions. We speak about establishing theme and whose story it is in a piece, ma…

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YouTube's Shake-Up, Amazon's AI Shopper, and the Robot Next Door 41:21

1M ago41:21

41:21

YouTube's losing major networks — could your favorites be next? This week, we talk about what's happening behind the scenes, meet the new Neo robot, and ask: can your eyes really see the difference between 8K and higher? Plus, Amazon's new AI "Help Me Decide" feature, surprising uses for your Android's USB port, and the first zipper redesign in a c…

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A Special Message for our PA Listeners 6:14

1M ago6:14

6:14

The hosts of the Crazy Together podcast have a special message for their fellow Pennsylvanians about the upcoming election on November 4, 2025. If you like what we have to say, share the message with your friends and family in PA: https://www.podbean.com/ep/pb-kpknv-19ad336 Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Contact us: https://www.crazytogeth…

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57. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: The Halloween Special 31:28

1M ago31:28

31:28

In this Halloween-themed Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus revisits the surprisingly polarizing costume choices of his youth. Then, he and Esme address the design and canonical flaws of the mass-produced smock and mask costumes of the 80s. Esme closes the show with a passionate defense of wearing Halloween costumes at work if for no other reason than to sti…

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Clean Up the Chaos: How to Declutter Your Thoughts and Refocus 11:03

1M ago11:03

11:03

Have you ever looked at your to-do list and felt like you were about to scale Mount Everest — in flip flops? On this episode of Get It Together, Weirdo, host and get-your-shit-together coach Sarah Bowser dives into her messy but totally relatable process for decluttering her mind. She explores how clearing your physical space, experimentation, and …

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56.Just in Time for Halloween: Fear! 59:59

2M ago59:59

59:59

In this week's episode, Marcus and Esme delve into the topic of phobias. They start by revealing their own personal phobias and then broaden the discussion to explore the nature of phobias, how they develop in the mind, and the various treatment options available for overcoming them. BUT FIRST! They have an important announcement and some heartfelt…

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55. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Anxious X-rays, Throw Pillows, and Genealogy 28:58

2M ago28:58

28:58

In this week’s Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus shares some valuable lessons he learned about managing his ADHD and anxiety after an unnecessarily emotional trip to the x-ray technician. Later, Esme reveals the two activities that have been fueling her hyperfocus this week: seasonal throw pillows and genealogy. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Conta…

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Inspirational Feedback, Weight-Bearing Walls, and Recognizing and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - Playwright's Spotlight with Sofia Streisand 1:01:44

1M ago1:01:44

1:01:44

Send us a text Sofia Streisand dropped into Playwright's Spotlight to discuss the U.S. premiere of her play Bluebeard's Castle (that I misspoke as Blackbeard's) November 1st through November 23rd. In this discussion, we discuss the difference between Russian, European, and American theatre, her journey from musical theatre to playwriting, writing m…

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Smart Apps, Sneaker Tech, and a Trillion Pages Saved on the Wayback Machine 38:35

2M ago38:35

38:35

This week, we're diving into the apps that manage your subscriptions — and even cancel them for you. The Wayback Machine celebrates a major milestone, we ask whether relying on AI might actually be making us less sharp, and we decode what "HD calling" really means. Plus: why some orange iPhones are turning pink, GM's surprising move away from CarPl…

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54. A Raccoon Finds Her Community (A No Kings Story) 38:22

2M ago38:22

38:22

Esme finds community among like-minded, freedom-loving Americans at a No Kings protest. She also dresses up as a raccoon. Meanwhile, Marcus is hepped up on antibiotics which contributes to the somewhat shorter duration of this week’s episode. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Contact us: https://www.crazytogetherpod.com/contact Sources for th…

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Applied Theatre, Writing Bilingual, and Dramaturgical Playwriting - Playwright's Spotlight with Ankita Raturi 1:21:19

2M ago1:21:19

1:21:19

Send us a text Ankita Raturi basked under the Playwright's Spotlight for the World Premiere of her play Neha & Neel. In this discussion we break down the concept of applied theatre and being a teaching artist, how it effects character, exercises that extrude character and whether or not the practice makes it into a piece. We unpack earning a monolo…

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AI You Can't Trust, Hybrids You Might Rethink, and the '80s Watch Revival 40:54

2M ago40:54

40:54

Did you shop Prime Day? This week, we talk about what deals were worth it — and how prices in the UK compare to the US. We've also got news on free Windows 10 security updates, Firefox's free VPN, and a big question: can you really trust Reddit's new AI? Plus, are hybrid cars as green as we've been told, or is it time for a reality check? Facebook …

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53. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Where K-Pop and Allegory Meet to Fight Demons 33:08

2M ago33:08

33:08

In this week's Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus and Esme dissect lyrics from the animated action musical K-Pop Demon Hunters. Wait, could a movie about a young woman with a difficult past who slays demons with the love and support of her two best friends be an allegory for something else? Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Contact us: https://www.craz…

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Time to Pivot: How to Master Resetting Mid-Project Without Losing Your Motivation 10:43

2M ago10:43

10:43

Have you ever had the perfect plan — with the color-coded schedule, the motivating playlist, everything all lined up — only to hit a wall that sends your brain spiraling into “I guess I’m just trash” territory? What if pivoting didn’t mean failure at all? What if it was actually a sign of growth? On this episode of Get It Together, Weirdo, host and…

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52. The Unwritten Rules of the Elites! 1:03:58

2M ago1:03:58

1:03:58

No. Marcus and Esme have not started a professional development product line. In this episode, Marcus and Esme explore the unwritten rules that govern interactions with and between members of the upper or executive class. Why? Because they're the bosses (and the bosses' bosses) and they have their own ways of thinking and talking. So, as a service …

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Writing Theatrically, Working on the Puzzle, and the Ecosystem of Theatre - Playwright's Spotlight with Crystal Skillman 1:03:26

2M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

Send us a text Playwright Crystal Skillman beamed into the Playwright's Spotlight from Indianapolis for the run of her World Premiere play The Rocket Men. We discuss how one becomes a 4-time NYT's Critics' Pick playwright, what it means to be a "theatrical" writer, writing design on the page and offering solutions, trusting and listening to your au…

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51. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Delco Purity Test 30:53

2M ago30:53

30:53

In this week's Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus and Esme review the new HBO miniseries Task - not so much from a content perspective, but through the hypercritical lens of two people who grew up in and around the magical area of Pennsylvania in which the show is set - Delaware County (more commonly known as Delco). Does the show hold up to the scrutiny of …

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50. We Were Wrong . . . Except for the Stuff We Got Right 59:08

2M ago59:08

59:08

Marcus and Esme revisit the topic of civil or involuntary commitment. They admit to a faulty conclusion in a previous episode and share some extremely important updates that everyone who has received or is receiving treatment for mental illness needs to know. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com Contact us: https://www.crazytogetherpod.com/conta…

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Formulas and Slow Burners, the Process of Radio Dramas, and Making Mystery Interesting - Playwright's Spotlight with John Ballentine 1:10:54

2M ago1:10:54

1:10:54

By James Elden

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49. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Happy Hard Month! 25:29

2M ago25:29

25:29

In this week's Hyperfocus Bonus, Marcus and Esme pitch ideas to spice up ADHD awareness month. Then, Marcus identifies a plot hole in the 1990-something thriller The Fugitive, and Esme demands an end to the pumpkin spice- and apple cinnamon-bombardment of peoples’ olfactory senses during the fall season. Happy Hard, everyone! Visit our website: cra…

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Curiosity Unleashed: Intentional Exploration of Rabbit Holes 11:33

2M ago11:33

11:33

Have you ever been told to “stop poking holes in the process,” “stick to the plan,” or “stop asking so many questions”? What if the very curiosity you’ve been told to suppress is actually your greatest strength? On this episode, host and get-your-shit-together coach Sarah Bowser shares why curiosity is your superpower and how following rabbit holes…

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48. It’s an Episode About Courage 49:54

2M ago49:54

49:54

Marcus and Esme briefly argue about the framing of this week’s episode. Esme wants to build upon a previous discussion about the challenges of reintegrating into society after an extended period of isolation. Marcus wants to tell a story about Esme’s courage in the face of anxiety- and depression-induced isolation. Eventually, they come to an agree…

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Community, Distractions, and Writing Characters You Don't See on Stage - Playwright's Spotlight with Israel López Reyes 1:03:35

2M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Send us a text Israel López Reyes swung by the studio before the opening of his recent commission to discuss his background leading up to it and his success as an Angeleno playwright. We discuss his journey from actor to playwright, how he fell into theatre and his discovery to figuring out story and telling stories that matter. We unpack the evolu…

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AI in Government, VPN Showdown, and Eye Drops Improve Vision 41:39

3M ago41:39

41:39

This week, Marc shares his iPhone horror story, and we talk about those long-awaited Facebook settlement payments finally hitting bank accounts. Federal agencies are leaning more on AI, eye drops may one day replace your reading glasses, and we compare ExpressVPN vs. Proton to see which one comes out on top. Plus: what you need to know about credit…

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47. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Philly Accents and Danish Cookies 28:10

3M ago28:10

28:10

In this week's Hyperfocus Bonus, Esme shares some exciting and unexpected news about the Philadelphia accent. Marcus takes us on a circuitous tour of his ADHD brain by describing how a recent recollection of a quasi-Danish baked good led him to a much more poignant reflection of his mom's impact on his life. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com …

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46. ADHD Coping Strategies 58:03

3M ago58:03

58:03

Living with ADHD means constantly adapting. Fortunately, there are a lot of coping strategies we can adopt to help us stay focused and centered amidst the constant swirl and change. In this episode, Marcus and Esme review a list of practical, research-backed coping strategies and discuss their experiences trying to use them in their own lives. From…

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Microsoft Copilot's Big Move, Meta's AI Glasses, and Prime Day Again 41:52

3M ago41:52

41:52

Prime Day in October? Yep, it's back. This week we talk about what that means for shoppers, why Microsoft's Copilot isn't really optional, and how public utilities could affect the cost of owning an EV. We'll also dig into the good and bad of iOS 26, take a peek at Meta's Hypernova AI glasses, and revisit some of the most memorable tech presentatio…

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45. HYPERFOCUS BONUS: Calm Gardens and Late-Night Supermarket Magic 29:26

3M ago29:26

29:26

Sometimes you find magic in a calm and serene garden(ing show). Other times, you might find it in the trunk of a nun's car outside a supermarket. In this week's Hyperfocus Bonus, Esme raves about a gardening show that really helps lower her blood pressure. Sometimes all you need is soft lighting, charming vistas, and English accents. Marcus, on the…

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Time That Matters: Aligning Your Tasks with Your Values 11:00

3M ago11:00

11:00

Ever feel like your to-do list has turned into an encyclopedia of random tasks, leaving you drained and wondering where your fun disappeared to? On this episode of Get It Together, Weirdo, host and get-your-shit-together coach Sarah Bowser shares how to make your time matter by aligning your tasks with your values. She discusses what it looks like …

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44. Confession: My ADHD Blew Up Our Episode 17:34

3M ago17:34

17:34

Marcus opens up about the ongoing challenges of living with ADHD—including moments of inattention, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that still catch him off guard, even after years of treatment. Case in point: this episode. What was originally going to be an episode about ADHD coping strategies (ironically) took a sharp detour when Marcus a…

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Film to Stage, Naturalism to Realism, and Finding Courage to Write - Playwright's Spotlight with David Kohner Zuckerman 58:17

3M ago58:17

58:17

Send us a text Filmmaker turned playwright, David Kohner Zuckerman, dropped into Playwright's Spotlight to talk about the World Premiere of his play Parallel Process. In this interview, we talk unpack his journey from film to stage and how it affect his writing, his approach to naturalism and honesty to his writing, and how his acting and directing…