The Inner City Actor's Podcast

Meet Mark Ebulue. 

Mark is a British Actor from Peckham, South East London. growing up in Peckham there weren't many drama opportunities, despite this, he always had a big love for action genre movies, he was more involved in sports and martial arts. from the age of 11, Mark was sent to a naval school in south London with his brothers so they were together. Mark was involved heavily with Boxing Karate and Kick Boxing on and off having some success winning competitions nationally. After attending the London Nautical School, he was contemplating a career in the army but was injured which, unfortunately, ended that dream, Mark followed his gut and made a swift move to acting and decided to apply for drama school -  his audition went so well he was accepted that day to do an Acting course (BA Hons) at Italia Conti, London's first drama school. Since graduating in 2011 mark has been working solidly in Theatre TV and Film, Associated with Classical theatre companies like the RSC and appearing in long series dramas like Casualty and Doctor Who To Appearing on hit TV shows like Stan Lee's Lucky Man and even being vocal talent in video games showing his range. Mark still keeps his passion alive for martial arts training regularly in Boxing and Krav Maga in fact as of 2017 Mark Ebulue was made an MMA Krav Maga Instructor (Certified By The British Combat Association) under Head Instructor Ricky Manetta.

We discussed:

• The  crucial role his father played in his life
• Krav Maga
• Acting and Fighting
• Video Games
• Voice Over Work

You'll find mark on 

Instagram: ebbzworld

Send your messages to innercitypodcast@gmail.com

Meet Reece Douglas. Reece started off as an actor, became an influencer, started a Social Media Marketing Agency, moved into tech, now on a mission to transform business to consumer companies. Reece is a risk-taker, loves acting and business. He sees acting as a hobby and works ever so hard to pursue the results he wants in his business. He started acting from a fairly young age and landed his first role in Waterloo Road (BBC). He's an excellent marketer, understands branding, and has a keen eye for what's hot in the online marketplace. 

We discussed:

• The Education System
• Failure
• How he combines digital marketing and acting
• Acting as a hobby
• Self-Care

Social media:

Instagram: @reecedouglas1

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Send your messages to innercitypodcast@gmail.com

Actors are accustomed to taking direction, on set, on stage, and in the voiceover booth. However, directing their own acting careers, can be a whole different ball game.

Meet Ajarae Coleman. 

Ajarae is a working actress with dozens of network TV, film and commercial credits, including NCIS: NEW ORLEANS (CBS), SCANDAL (ABC), REVENGE (ABC), THE CATCH (ABC), 2 BROKE GIRLS (CBS), THE McCarthy's (CBS), i'm SORRY (TruTV), PERCEPTION (TNT), HIT THE FLOOR (VH1), PRIVATE PRACTICE (ABC), and DAYS OF OUR LIVES (NBC).

Ajarae founded ActingResourceGuru.com (ARG) to give actors practical steps to get more auditions, book more work, stay in the know, and feel in charge of their careers. Ajarae is all about helping actors step into the role of LEADER so they can play an active role in their own success and truly have a seat at the power player table.

We discussed: 

• The concept of artistic leadership
• Time Management
• Why Ajarae became an acting/business coach
• How she came up with the idea to help actors
• Why each artist must have their own individual voice
• The importance of having a supportive community 

Connect with Ajarae on Instagram at @ajaraecoleman and join her Facebook group Actors Who Get It.

I always want feedback about the show. Who would you want on the show next? Where could I improve as an interviewer? What do you enjoy about the show? send these into:

innercitypodcast@gmail.com

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Marcus Is a young adult who has adopted positive thinking and aspires to utilize his potential in the crafts he is passionate about. He is well-traveled, educated, and knowledgeable in his field of acting with life long experience. He is an entrepreneur, involved in a whole range of diverse investments within the performing arts field and business fields. 

We discuss:

• Marcus' Personal Habits
• Kingdom Drama School
• The Powerful Influence of both his, Mother and Grandmother
• His love for business and entrepreneurship
• The challenges of being a family man and a performer

Kelechi Okafor aka Kelechnekoff is an actor, director, and dance innovator who facilitates self-actualization through dance. Kelechi opened Kelechnekoff Fitness Studio in 2016 and has since been featured (twice!) as one of the top ten fitness classes to attend by Timeout London. Kelechi has built her platform on talking honestly about fitness, pole dancing, and societal structures. Since announcing her pregnancy in February 2019, Kelechi has shared her experiences of exercising and keeping fit during pregnancy. As a qualified Antenatal and Postnatal Personal Trainer, she was able to demonstrate a wellness-focused pregnancy. Kelechi's quick wit and thoughtful Instagram stories have provided a great space for her weekly podcast, Say Your Mind, to thrive. Kelechi created the character #SallyInHR as a way to address the micro and macro aggressions faced by marginalized communities in the workplace

We discussed:

• Motherhood
• How politicians and the ELITE judge and label people
• Her Podcast Structure
• Her ability to be 'Directly Articulate'
• Combining Fitness and Acting
• Parental Expectations
• Her time at Liverpool Hope University
• Literature

It was an absolute pleasure to host a genius of a woman who, despite all the odds, has created a fantastic fitness brand; social commentates superbly well and delivers excellent content on her podcast 'Say Your Mind'. Kelechi is an inspiration! She's frank, unafraid to speak boldly, and is creating value for the world. 

Be sure to find her on:

Instagram: @kelechnekoff

Podcast: Say Your Mind

Twitter: Machine Gun Kele

Christina Castaneda is a writer, content producer, and influencer living in Los Angeles, California. She is the host of the Savvy Creative podcast, a show for female indie authors, poets, screenwriters, and filmmakers to share their creative process and the issues that inspire our writing. She is also the creator of The Savvy Creative Academy, where she offers media coaching and producing for independent artists, influencers, and writers.

On the podcast we discussed:

• Commercials and Voiceover Work
• The Savvy Creative Brand
• Writing
• The Creative Process
• Her Bucket List
• London Real

Christina, who describes herself, as a workaholic - puts absolutely everything in whatever she does. Check out her amazing podcast 'Savvy Creative' Podcast. She even helped me start my own show!

You'll find her on:

Instagram: @savvycreativechristina

If you require some media help, why not hit her up with an email: christinacasteneda@gmail.com

Enjoy!

Adele is an actor and screenwriter. In 5 short years, her acting highlights have included performing on the West End, featuring in the independent British movie ACCEPTABLE DAMAGE streaming on major UK & US platforms, and making her TV debut in 2020. Although the unexpected passion for writing came much later, she has won a “Best Screenplay” Award for her debut short film, LAST CALL, and had original scripts commissioned by Channel 4 and Three Tables. Adele has a BTEC in Acting from Richmond College and an academic Bachelors's Degree in Drama from the University of Bristol. She has also always avidly pursued part-time training, right up to this very day, at several grass-roots London institutions and at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York.

You'll find Adele on:

Instagram: adele_jjames

Amy Worthington is a British Actress from Greater Manchester. Based now in London, Amy graduated from Drama Studio London in 2019.   Recent credits include; Pick n’ Mix at The Lyric Hammersmith and DRINK at The Pleasance Theatre.  She is also the host and producer of The Irrelevant Actor a podcast and platform for creatives.

We discussed:

- Amy's Acting journey 

- Starting The Irrelevant Actor

- What she has learned from the podcast 

- What she has learned since graduating from drama school 

- The Challenges she faced as an 18-year old

- Understanding the acting process (reverse engineering)

Amy is doing phenomenal work with her podcast and acting - she was one of the inspirations that prompted me to start my show!

Check her out on:

Instagram: @theirrelevantactor

Twitter: @TIActorPod

Neelofer Nova is a Poet, Writer, Spoken Word Artist, Mentor, and motivational speaker. Graduated from LSE in 2001 with an LLB Law degree has worked in civil litigation and then went to work in various fields before finding her home in the field of education and mentoring. Her poetry career also started in her uni days when she first discovered open mics and the London Slam Poetry scene. She went on to work with notable musicians and producers and had her poetry released on two labels both in the UK (Tigersonic) and the USA (Blockhead). She has taught internationally in academies leading creative workshops in academies, theatre companies, and social change charities. Has worked with ex-gang members, female prisoners, young disenfranchised groups.  Neelofer has also been on BBC Radio as an artist and also as a panelist on Nihal's show on BBC Asian Network Balancing her own creative pursuits in writing, poetry, and music she has successfully managed PR, Marketing and communications for several companies.   Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Educator, and Business Women. A Born Leader. Born and raised in South London of Pakistani heritage. Starting out on the London Open Mic circuit some 20 years ago, Neelofer soon made a name for herself as the most dynamic and thought-provoking Asian female Spoken Word Artist on the scene. Challenging Stereotypes and making it known that she has the courage of her convictions to be an individual and make her own choices – hence the aptly named track “POET” submitted to Deeyah Khans “SISTERHOOD” project.  Neelofer's passions are mental health and women's education and rights. Published collection and album releases have been and still are in the pipeline.

Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola is a Nigerian-American storyteller from Baltimore, Maryland. She is an alum of the University of Maryland College Park, where she received a dual Bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Broadcast Journalism. Kristie is an actress, filmmaker, podcast host, and journalist. She strives to create spaces where underrepresented individuals can utilize their voices and properly share their stories.

We discussed:

• how I@ found/started in the world of theatre/the arts 
• What she's learned about herself as a performing artist thus far.
• The importance of not allowing others/society to confine you to a box and how realizing this was such a relief.  
• The power of fear and how fear can really crush your dreams/take you off your path if you allow it. 
• how I have been navigating life post-grad & transitioning into the professional environment as a storyteller.

You'll find Kristie on:

 Instagram: @kristietaiwomakanjuola

 Twitter: @KrisT_Mak

PLEASE Feedback with comments, thoughts, and suggestions about and for the show. I want to ensure I'm producing quality content for my listeners

María Thelma graduated as an actress from the Iceland Academy of Arts in 2016,  Just out of school she played Iris in the very well-received TV series Prisoners (Fangar)  Early 2017, she starred in the short film Miss Iceland that will premiere at the Reykjavík Film Festival (RIFF).  María Thelma movie debut is the Arctic where she had the privilege to star opposite Mads Mikkelsen. The 'Arctic' screened at Cannes Film Festival as part of the 'Official Selection' lineup.  Maria Thelma currently under contract at the National Theatre of Iceland.

We discussed:

• How she got the part in the Arctic (Directed by Joe Penna)
• Shooting the Arctic in Iceland 
• What it's like to be one of the very few mixed raced  (colored) actors in Iceland. 
• Embracing your uniqueness. 
• Get creative during COVID-19. Make connections and Collaborating.

You can find Maria on:

Instagram: @mariathelma93

Meet Leonie Hayne Moses. Leonie was very shy as a child so at around the age of ten, her mother sent her to Pineapple Studios. This gave her the opportunity to develop confidence and a passion for performing. She also attended Roundhouse Theatre, Lyric Theatre, and Almedia Theatre’s summer drama schemes. Later in her career, she performed at the Roundhouse and Almedia Theatre’s as well as being cast in the web series Dear Jesus and other short films.

We spoke about:

• Networking
• Supporting yourself as an actor
• Comparing yourself to others 
• Positivity 
• Motivation

Leonie is family-orientated and comes across in. such a giving and generous way. It was a pleasure talking with her.

You can find Leonie on:

Instagram: leoniehaynesmoses

email: leoniehaynesmoses@gmail.com

Ben is an actor and acting coach, based in Hackney. He trained at the Drama Centre, on the BA course and graduated in 2014. His own personal work has been predominantly in the theatre, as an actor and director, but he has also written for the screen.

For the past 3 years, Ben has also worked as a professional acting coach and successfully prepared clients for series leads in US network shows and Disney films.

He is the founder of OnAction, a bespoke acting coaching company, created to enable and support movements within the acting industry.

Ben and I had an excellent discussion. We talked about the business of acting; how to survive as an actor; acting as an art form and how determined you need to be in order to advance in the industry.

You'll find Ben on

Instagram: @benwoodhall

email: onactionldn.com

Tanya was so gracious with her time and knowledge - it was a privilege to have her on the show. She's a vibrant, energetic personality who loves performing, giving back and doing her utmost to be the best she can be. Ms. Edwards has been synonymous with the Lion King theatre production for many years, playing multiple roles in the ensemble. She's had roles in 'Dirty Dancing, Hairspray, and Respect (The Aretha Franklyn Show) to name a few. Tanya's voice is powerful, she has captivated audiences with stunning performances and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to delivering on value. We discussed her love of travel and St. Lucia; wellness, staying mentally healthy; how she handles jealously/haters and what's it like to be part of theatre production for such a long period of time. Tanya was born to dazzle and amaze audiences, I hope she has inspired you. Listen to her story.

You'll find her on

Instagram: @misstanyaedwards

Twitter: @misstanyanicole

Meet Sophia Sinclair. A London-based actress who has built up an incredible body of work over many years. From an early age, Sophia knew that she wanted to be an actress. Ever since that enlightened moment, at the tender age of 14, she has been in a whole host of commercials, TV shows, theatre productions and produced incredible voiceover work. We discussed the value of mentors; how important it is to stay driven; how the industry has changed from (favoring the elites to being accessible to anyone). Additionally, Sophia spoke about the importance of knowing your worth, saying no; being paid for your talent and the importance of connecting with fellow creatives. We had an amazing conversation, Sophia is personable, likeable and an all-around phenomenal human being. 

You'll find her on:

Instagram: @sophia_sinclair

Facebook: facebook.com/SophiaSinclairOfficial

It was an honour and a privilege to invite Gabriella back on the show. She had just recently touched down from the States. Gaby went to Miami and New Orleans for a two-week period as part of the 'David Lyle Scholarship' programme. We discussed what she learnt about production and business (whilst being out there). Our conversation then dived into the differences between production in the UK and the U.S. Gaby learnt a great deal and described it as an invaluable experience. We talked about the latest BBC drama 'Noughts and Crosses'. We were both delighted that a show, with strong male and female black leads, was finally on a linear television station. Gaby is an inspirational young lady who works tremendously hard in production and wants to constantly grow and learn. Listen to Part 2 of her amazing story.

You'll find Gaby on:

Instagram: @gabri.ellavate

What an interview! Samuel is one of a kind. Not only is he a great example of hustle, but he also has a courageous mindset and illicits supreme confidence to those around him. Samuell isn't just an actor, he's an educator; a role model and someone who exerts positive energy. He challenges people to raise their creative game and abhors the idea of mediocrity. Samuell is constantly teaching; vlogging and giving out content to get people to enhance themselves to be more than they are. You'll love this episode.

Follow him on:

Instagram: @samuellbenta

youtube: Samuell Benta

Meet the generous and warm-hearted Honey Gabriel. Honey, who went from working in the corporate world into the world of acting, gave us an excellent insight into her journey. We discuss her time at a private equity firm; going to drama school part-time (in the evening) whilst still working; how she manages money which enabled her to pay for the fees; the role her Christian faith played in allowing her to pursue a career in the arts and what her hopes are for the future. Honey comes from a family of academics and overachievers, she has utilized this family trait as an actor and wants to grow and develop her skills within the industry. Furthermore,  Honey talked about how important it was to give back and she demonstrates this by her donating or tithing to church and other charitable organizations. If you really want to be an actor, listen to this interview and be encouraged that you can do it. 

You'll find on Honey at:

Instagram: @thehoneygabriel

Kyla Frye, is an award-winning actress whose passion and determination are evident from what she's achieved. Kyla gave insight into how she balances parenting, acting, writing, producing and running a film company. Kyla has a young family, one child, with one on the way, she parents and continues to stretch herself in order to be the 'change she wants to see'. We delve into diversity, racism her, venture to L..A and how she has achieved so much in such a short space of time. Kyla didn't hold back with her honest views and there were points where our conversation could have easily drifted into many different areas. Kyla is an inspiration. Listen to her story.

You'll find her on:

Instagram: @kylafryeofficial

Twitter: @Kylafrye

Youtube: @Kylafrye

Meet Ambreen Razia. A multi-winning writer and actress, who has been able to combine her love of, acting and writing, with great success. Currently, Ambreen has been commissioned by Clean Break Theatre to write about women in the prison system! Ambreen and I spoke about the writing process for television and stage; representation and accessibility to the arts; how she approaches the acting process and what she wants to see more of both, on stage and television. Ambreen was so generous with her knowledge, experience, and expertise; we discussed how important it was for her to be part of projects, that have themes, she really cares about. If you're an emerging writer this podcast is for you! Furthermore, Ambreen discusses how she finds inspiration for writing and how getting real-life experience (with stories you want to write) is so crucial to writing a piece that will capture audiences. Listen to her story.

You'll find Ambreen:

Instagram: @ambreenrazai

You can contact me:

Instagram: @innercitypodcast

email: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

What a journey it's been, creating this podcast has been one of my greatest achievements. That might seem like quite an odd assertion however, taking into account my life experiences, personality and how I handle new things, this podcast has been quite something. I have interviewed some amazing guests who have been so gracious and generous with their time and knowledge. The vast majority of my guests come from diverse backgrounds, specifically, from Afro-Carribean descent. The resistance that ethnic groups within the arts face are a real issue; one that has been recently highlighted in the mainstream media. My guests see their race, background, and color as an opportunity to take ground in the acting industry. They have shown resilience, perseverance and most of all, an abundance of character. Be inspired and encouraged and continue to listen (I'd be ever so grateful!)

Instagram: @innercityactorspodcast

Today I had the fantastic opportunity to speak to Kesra, of The Jade and Kesra show. This amazing duo have created a superbly produced Youtube series, which is coming up to its second season. We discussed the work-life balance of a female businesswoman/creative. The challenges with the concept of trying to have it all and we discussed if this concept it an unattainable illusion. The process of writing a project, pre-production, post-production, and the consumption of the show from audiences. Additionally, Kesra shared what’s next for The Jade and Kesra Show. Moreover, Kesra enlightened me with her and Jade's vision for the show for 2020. Listen to their amazing story.

Follow them on:

Instagram: @thejadeandkesrashow

Youtube: The Jade and Kesra Show

Remember you can find on:

email: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @innercityactorspodcast

Hey guys! Today I had the privilege of talking to Italian-born actor Luca Molinari, Luca, Italien by birth but raised in Switzerland, spoke about his acting journey so far. We discussed the challenges of being an EU actor in the UK film industry; The necessity of mentors and life coaches who guided him through some difficult moments in his early twenties. Furthermore, Luca was open about some of his struggles and embarrassing moments, it was great to hear his candor. We also spoke about the difference between theatre acting and TV acting and how he approaches both forms of art. Luca will be in a new feature film which will be released in summer 2020 called 'The Lady from the Sea'. Listen to his story.

Follow Luca on Instagram: @iolucamolinari

email me: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE like and subscribe, it helps more people find the show!

Today's guest, Delia-Rene Donaldson, is an ambitious and talented writer who has worked tirelessly at her craft. From 2011, when she first began writing her blog, Kisses, and Bumflicks, for that same show to be commissioned by SKY TV this Spring! Delia has made giant leaps in her writing career. Delia shares her writing tips and tricks; she addresses the myths around screenwriters; how her show got commissioned for SKY; how she dealt with the failure of a previous show that was aired unsuccessfully, and so much more! If you're a keen writer then this is a must-listen.  

Follow Delia on:

Instagram: @delia.rene

Website: www.deliarene.com

Twitter: @DeliaReneUK

In today's episode, I switch roles, from interviewer to interviewee! I was interviewed by Jan Mehlhose an entrepreneur who has a podcast called 'The Business Artists Podcast'. Jan and I had the privilege of being students of Brian Rose, founder of a phenomenal media company called London Real. We signed to the 'Broadcast Yourself' course (which I would highly recommend). We both learned how to start podcasts, and subsequently, turn them into businesses. Jan asks me a wide variety of questions regarding my podcast, the types of guests I've had on, what I've learned from guests and how I will continue and what I have planned for the future. Furthermore, I was able to share parts of my journey. Jan already has a business, he is a tremendous associate and business partner. Listen to my story.

You can follow Jan on Instagram: @janmehlhose

You can SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to his podcast called: The Business Artist Podcast 

I'm always looking to improve as a podcaster so please feel free to give me feedback and email me: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

In my second episode of acting stories, I have a great conversation with comedian and actress, Dominque Davies a.k.a Variety D. Dominque shared her acting story. She spoke candidly about the disproportional representation of black women in the UK comedy scene, how she manages her disability; furthermore, she made reference to popular black comedians like Kojo and Richard Blackwood. Dominque spoke forthrightly about the pros and cons of social media and, she even recounts receiving a death threat (on stage) for making a joke about a South London gang! Dominque is incredibly funny, witty, thinks on her feet and has an amazing way of engaging audiences and podcast hosts! Listen to her story.

Follow her on:

Instagram: variety_d

Youtube: -youtube.com/user/Mbryty

Twitter: twitter.com/VarietyD

email me: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

In my first 'Throwback Thursday' episode we'll hear from Nel Marie Patra, an actress, and model. Nel Marie has utilized social media superbly, she regularly posts pictures, small clips and has appeared in short films. She has a unique look and acting style that works well with her modeling career. Listen, learn and see how you can take your acting and social media game to the next level.

Follow her on Instagram: @nelmariepatra

Follow me on Instagram: @innercityactorspodcast

I'm on my 10th Episode!! This week I'm joined by the incredibly gifted Jake Jon. Jake, has had an amazing career. Today we talk about the 'New Entertainment Industry' setting up a school/label for young black and brown people and we talk extensively about why he decided to team up with an associate to work on an acting agency. Jake has writing credits for Made In Chelsea, Match Of The Day, ThunderBirds Are Go! 

Follow him Instagram: @jakejonmusic

website: jakejon.com

Find us on Instagram: @innercityactorspodcast

email me at: innercitypodcast@gmail.com

Today I interview the incredible and amazing Elisha Myton. In this episode, Elisha and I talk about 'Acting Challenges'. She talks about playing different characters, balancing acting/working and how to stay current for such a creative and diverse industry.

Follow her on Instagram: @elishamyton

Follow her on Facebook: Elisha Myton

I take comments, questions, and queries at:

innercitypodcast@gmail.com

This is just a solo cast by yours truly! 

Remember you can follow on Instagram: @innercityactorspodcast

you can reach me at innercitypodcast@gmail.com

Meet Adam Courting. He went from being an untrained performer to becoming a working actor, writer, and producer. He received recognition for his acting talent by being awarded the 'Norman Beaton Fellowship' prize. He's also a part of a BBC Radio Drama Company and is part of a phenomenal all-black improv troupe! Listen to his amazing journey.

Meet Nel Marie Patra. She's a model, Instagrammer, and actress. She has utilized social media superbly well and amassed an incredible 10 thousand Instagram followers! Nel discusses negative criticism, explores her failures and describes how she acquired such a substantial social media following in such a short space of time. Furthermore, she speaks honestly and openly about the difficulties of making headway in the industry. Listen to her story.

Meet Jordan Benjamin. Encouraged by his mother at a young age to act, she forced him to join a local drama club. Since then, Jordan has gone on from strength to strength. He has appeared in a 3-year running children's TV series, received an award for his acting ability at the age of 14, produced his own short film and has starred in a TV, Movie biopic. Jordan has strong faith-based views, listen to how well he articulates his position of 'no compromise'. What are your 'acting values?'

In The Inner City, there is talent everywhere - Meet Serge Rashidi. Listen to his engaging and honest story, from a talented musician, who wanted nothing more than to take the stage by storm, through music. To a brilliant director, who has produced superb shows across London's theatres. and changed over 100,000 young lives!

What's this all about?