Jake Hollander joins us to discuss his incredible journey through the world of animation as a Supervising Director, Writer, and Creator. From working on fan-favorite series like Krapopolis and Duncanville to creating original IPs, Jake shares how his love of storytelling—shaped by fantasy and sci-fi classics like those of Isaac Asimov and J.R.R. Tolkien—informs his creative process. Tune in to hear how Jake’s passion for mythology, history, and collaboration fuels his success in the entertainment industry!

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In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of live television with Philip Dvorak, an accomplished associate director with 20 years of experience in TV production. Phil specializes in control room operations for live news and sports programming, ensuring all elements are perfectly timed and ready for directors to execute on-air.

From his nearly two-decade tenure with Access Hollywood to his Emmy-winning work on FOX NFL Sunday, Phil shares stories and insights from behind the scenes of some of TV’s most iconic moments. He discusses the intricacies of working in live broadcast environments, the rewarding (and sometimes stressful) nature of the job, and how his passion for storytelling has shaped his career.

Phil also opens up about balancing his thriving career with family life, his move from Southern California to Colorado, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry. Whether you're curious about the demands of live television or looking for inspiration to break into the entertainment industry, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

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In this episode, we explore the role of accessibility in entertainment with the Live Nation Director of Fan Services & Accessibility for Venues. Discover how scalable, fan-centered programs and seamless experiences are designed for fans of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. From conducting accessibility audits to collaborating across teams, this conversation reveals the challenges and triumphs of creating inclusive spaces in a high-traffic, multi-location organization. Tune in for an inspiring look at how accessibility is reshaping the fan journey in entertainment.

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Emma “EMM” Norris is an American alternative-pop singer, songwriter, producer, and content creator from Traverse City, Michigan, based in Los Angeles.She was one of the first women to release a full-length album, “Burning in the Dark,” which she created in its entirety from start to finish, including writing, producing, performing, mixing and mastering.

Curve (magazine) described EMM, saying, "She is the definition of a thriving independent artist: calling all the shots in her own career, making her visions come to life, having a hand in every sonic choice and every melody you hear, betting on herself, and standing up for what she believes in most. Impossible to control, and impossible to contain, EMM is a force." Additionally, EMM was featured in USA Today and Business Wire for her involvement in the social media app Flipagram.

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Original Recording Date: 9/16/24

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Zian Chavez, producer of We Are the Most Beautiful People | Adults with Disabilities, an award-winning documentary that’s reshaping perceptions of beauty and disability worldwide. Through compelling stories from adults with disabilities across cultures, the film confronts ableism, racism, and the distinction between Disability Rights and Disability Justice. Zian shares insights from the film’s journey through international festivals and the transformative impact of representing the lived experiences of people with disabilities. Join us as we explore how this groundbreaking documentary challenges norms and redefines the meaning of beauty and humanity.

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Original Recording Date: August 22

Carly Webster joins us and brings many important topics to the table, including her personal journey from fan to advocate, and the importance of accessible concert experiences. Carly shares how her teenage years spent in entertainment fandom opened her eyes to the deep lack of representation and support for disabled people in music spaces. At just 15, she founded a nonprofit dedicated to breaking down these barriers, proving that music should be accessible to all.

In this episode, Carly reflects on her experiences working with artist teams, delivering a TEDx talk, and how her vision for the future goes far beyond personal milestones. Carly believes that music and live entertainment are for everyone, and she's determined to make it a more inclusive space. Her passion for creating accessible experiences for disabled music fans has fueled her career in event accessibility consulting, public speaking, and event production.

Join us as Carly delves into her aspirations, her commitment to giving back to future generations, and her dedication to making real change. Whether you’re in the industry or a fan, Carly’s story is a compelling call to action to help redefine what accessibility means in the world of music and live events.

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Original Recording Date: August 19, 2024

Zhara is the president and CEO of Auracle Productions-- a female owned and operated production company that celebrates the badasserie of women worldwide. The company writes, develops, and produces television, film, and media content that highlights female-driven stories and book adaptations with authentic female characters.

Zhara is also an innovator in the field of autism after becoming an autism advocate, international public speaker, author, as well as the world's first professor of female Neurodivergent studies after developing the first course of its kind at Arizona State University.

In her work around this subject, she propels the initiative for more research and understanding of the female autism phenotype which she believes the lack thereof and lack of it's own subtype has failed girls and women across the globe for far too long. Her work challenges the current healthcare system and diagnostic criteria in place for neurodivergent people of all genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

She recently partnered with Stone Village Television to produce and co-host two documentary films entitled "Understanding Autism" and "ADHD: Wired Differently", which are slated for release this spring.

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Original Recording Date: Aug. 14, 2024
Viselman has achieved something close to legendary status …” New York Times. A true showman, Viselman has an unmatched reputation for taking unknown or faltering toy properties and turning them into overnight sensations… many liken him to the Tom Hanks character in the movie “Big," a kid in a grownup's body…” Inc Magazine. By the age of 30, Viselman was responsible for over $2 billion in sales.

By 40, skyrocketing to $12 billion. It's now estimated he is associated with over US $27billion dollars in global success. Viselman, has created, produced, marketed and or consulted on 50+ projects. He is the producing partner for Teletubbies, credited as the genius behind the commercial success of Thomas the Tank Engine and the driving force behind the rebirth of family classics Eloise & Noddy. Viselman's itsy bitsy Entertainment, is one of the world’s most admired independent family entertainment companies. His brands are wildly successful both on and off the screen including top-selling numerous ancillary products.

Currently, Viselman has launched itsybitsywow.com a "Funtastical Entertainment Emporium For Families" and is Showrunner for International Sensation MeteoHeroes, the definitive family series about Climate Education, already seen in 200 countries and 22 languages.

Viselman is developing his Li'l Pet Hospital brand with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, proceeds help save children's lives. Additionally, he's executive producing BlackJack a gritty hour long action adventure drama based on the classic graphic novel series of the same name and entered into a massive development deal with Toonz Media.

Viselman is now set to launch his unique version of storytelling into the unscripted world with three new original series.Viselman’s team is producing itsy bitsy Schoolhouse, a global didactic children’s TV project as well as The Wish Genie based on his book of the same title and two other original animated feature films.

Join our conversation on social media:

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Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org