Steven Brogan Cortez Presents: The 'Y The F Not?' Podcast

In this episode of The Y The F Not Podcast, screenwriter Jagger Waters joins us as a guest. Jagger is the award-winning writer of the short screenplay '2001' but prior to her awards we met at the hallowed grounds of Rockwell Table and Stage. We delve into a variety of topics, including the role of male trees in society and the state of social media in our modern world. Tune in for an insightful conversation with Jagger Waters and don't forget to subscribe to The Y The F Not Podcast for more fascinating interviews with creative minds.

If you would like to keep in touch with what Jagger is up please check out the link below:

Welcome to "The Y the F Not Podcast" with your host Steven Brogan Cortez. In this episode, Steven interviews Garrett Engle, also known as the infamous Drag Queen, Miss Clair Voyance. Join them as they discuss Garrett's journey from a young boy with a glue gun to producing shows full of spectacle and wonder. Discover how musical theater has shaped his life in the most beautiful of ways.

If you're a fan of captivating storytelling and love hearing about the transformational power of art, then this episode is a must-listen. You can find "The Y the F Not Podcast with Host Steven Brogan Cortez" on all major podcast platforms. Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation!

If you want to keep up to date with what Garret is up please check out the links below:

Join me in today's episode as I interview Luna Rosé, host of the Outsiders Assemble Podcast. Luna shares her unique journey as an artist, content creator, and individual on the autism spectrum. Learn about the complexities of living on the spectrum and how it's not just a linear spectrum, but more like a color wheel. Luna and I also discuss the latest Antman and The Wasp movie, her love for Marvel, and her latest TikTok updates for her fans. Enhance your understanding of autism with this insightful conversation

If you would like to catch up with all of what Luna is working on please click the link below:

Join host Steven Brogan Cortez on The Y the F Not Podcast as he sits down with old friend and accomplished musician, entrepreneur, and soon-to-be father, Sammy Aguilar. In this episode, Sammy shares the inspiring story of how he and his business partner and longtime friend, Karlo Cuesta, started The Rose Garden Barbershop in the San Fernando Valley. Listen as Sammy opens up about his journey of self-discovery, how his loss/gain of faith led him to a renewed belief in himself and the importance of love and friendship in his life, and how his family has been a constant source of inspiration. Don't miss this uplifting and relatable story on The Y the F Not Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube, and everywhere you enjoy your Podcasts.

To stay in touch with what Sammy is up to check out the links below for more:

• In this episode of The Y the F Not Podcast, host Steven Brogan Cortez sits down with special guest Lana McKissack
• Lana is a talented actor, singer, dancer, and transformer, known for her work in commercials, cult classic films, and more
• During the conversation, Lana shares her journey as a young actor and her recent involvement in Horror Camp at the Bourbon Room
• Tune in to hear more about Lana's impressive career and catch up with her on The Y the F Not Podcast

If you would like to check out what Lana is up to please check out the link below:

In this episode, listen to Sarkis Bakalyan's return for his second appearance on the show. Sarkis discusses his latest project, Ninja Survive, an animated series co-created with Brandon Swofford. Tune in to hear about the creation of Ninja Survive, as well as discussions on Sonic Frontiers, the future of physical media, and more. Plus, Sarkis and the host exchange Gamertags. Don't miss out on this exciting episode of the podcast.

If you would like to learn more about what Sarkis and Brandon are up to with Ninja Survive check out the links below:

Join us on today's episode as we catch up with Ashley Balderrama, a dear friend and talented photojournalist based in Los Angeles. Ashley has captured memorable images at various events, including family graduations, protests against police brutality, and more. In this conversation, we discuss Ashley's new book, "Get Your Boot Off My Neck," which documents the events of August 21st, 2020 in Tujunga, Los Angeles. Don't miss this empowering conversation with Ashley, a Latina photojournalist who is breaking new ground in her field.

If you would like to check out all of Ashley BAlderrama's work check out the link below:

In today's episode I got to hang out with someone who blew me away with her bold creativity, Jennifer Levinson. You may know Jennifer from Buzzfeed videos she went viral for but today we are not talking about the past (entirely). Jennifer is promoting her latest work Trust, a feature film, as well as sharing her journey that led her to writing, producing, and starring in said feature film. To say I was impressed and inspired after our conversation would be an understatement yall! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the episode.

If you would like to check out all of Jennifer Levinson's work check out the link below

In today's episode I have a dear friend from college joining me in, Shayla Tharp. Shayla is an Iowan born and raised actor who is now living in London working in the entertainment industry. She's making her way through London working at a talent agency but don't you fret, you can catch her in front of the camera as well! She's been acting in TV series since 2016 in works such as Wild Fires, Grace and Frankie, Born and Missing, and so much more! Shayla shares her journey as a corn fields and star gazing Iowa kid to an actress who is now paving the way to make her own star in the sky. Sit back and relax yall!
NOW IN VIDEO!!!

If you would like to stay up to date with everything Shayla is up to check out the link below!

In today's episode I got to hang out with a good friend from college, Michael Gmur. Michael is a US Marine Corp. Veteran and actor living in Texas who was kind enough to stop by and hang out with me on the show. Michael shares his journey from a small town with a horse drawn mailing system to the Marine Corp., down to Cal State Northridge, and now in Texas as a working actor. Identity and not letting go of your power were strong themes throughout the conversation and I already cannot wait to have him back on, because we did not even get to talk about his Forest Gump-esque adventure across the USA. Sit back and relax yall!

Stay up to date with everything Michael is working on by clicking the link below

In today's episode I got to hang out with singer songwriter Tom D'Agustino. I discovered Tom thanks to my girlfriend Stephanie who shared this Tik Tok video Tom made. I was not sure if she was showing me an artist just to share, but I had to reach out and get them on the show! Tom's music had me feeling! As an artist he is titillating  and as a conversationalist he is delightful. He shared his serendipitous journey into music and his journey into theology! Sit back and relax yall! 

If you would like to listen to Tom's music  and everything else he is working on check out the links below!

In today's episode I got to hang out with a member of the holy tripod, John Bernos. John Bernos and I met back in college one fateful day outside a certain green room, and after one conversation about Tom Brady that was it! A brotherhood was formed. John is an actor, dancer, singer, and choreographer extraordinaire! Join us in our talk about spirituality and the journey of discovering who you are. 

If you would like to know about what else John is about to check out the link below:

In today's episode I got to hang out once again with their majesty, Lizzerd Kween. She's here sharing her new song Favor, Returned and the insights on the creation of this powerful song. They have also come with special news of an up and coming radio show hosted by Lizzerd Kween herself! The show is going to focus on indie music artist of all kinds to let those in the surrounding area know what new music is around them! Sit back and relax, its the Y the F Not Show. 

If you would like to stay up to date with what Lizzerd Kween is up to check out the link below:

In today's episode a good friend of mine and of the show returns to hang out, Gabriela Sofia Torres. We talk about actors who can't read (allegedly) and are kind of mean (seriously) as well as geek out about some Glee. That may be completely me but thankfully Gabriela is used to this by now so no need to fret. She also got to answer the new set of questions I've lined up for recurring guests (a workshop if you will). Sit back and enjoy the show!

If you would like to check out Gabriela's content check out the link below.

In today's episode I got a chance to hang out with an old friend from college, Grace Yoo. Grace is currently performing on Broadway in the hit musical Hadestown. This may be the most we talk about her current role in Hadestown because we got so caught up in the story of her journey. From being bribed by her mom to perform in the Wizard of Oz to performing on Broadway, we needed more than an hour to tell this story. Enjoy this small glimpse into the life of a Korean American actress who dared to ask, "Why not me?"

If you would like to stay up to date with what Grace is up to please check out the links below:

In today's episode I got top hang out once again with my Beatles brother Pancho Cardeña. Pancho is an actor manifesting his career one film at a time. With his appearance in Bullet Train to his up in coming appearance in Shotgun Wedding, this man is staying persistent! Sit back and relax as we chat about the Beatles and the truth behind the relationship of John Lennon and Yoko Ono!

If you would like to know what Pancho is up to please follow the links below:

In today's episode I go a chance to hang out and catch up with an old friend from Paris, from my days as a young boy of the revolution (don't worry it was a musical), Steve Rizzo. Steve has been a stuntman in Hollywood for 30 years and has been in some of your favorite TV shows and films, but because he's so good at what he does you'd never know it was him. Oh! And big news! Steve got to work with the spiritual inspiration of this show, Kevin Smith. I'm telling you this man knows what's up and according to him the key to his success and happiness is fun. So sit back, relax, and have fun, with me and Steve Rizzo. 

If you want to find out where else you may have seen Steve or maybe you wanna check out his Instagram or Tik Tok, check out the link below.

In today's episode I got a chance to hang out with singer songwriter, Summer Woods. I first found Summer on Tik Tok jamming out to her single Pasadena (not just for those from Pasadena). She's here to let us know of the upcoming release party for her new single, When I Fall. I also got a chance to dive in and get to know Summer a littler better. She couldn't hang out too long with me because she is currently in the works for a new music video! Can't wat to have her back on and cannot wait for yall to listen to this conversation and get to know Summer Woods a littler better yourselves. 

If you would like to know where to catch Summer's latest release part, check out her music, or check out her Phineas and Ferb medley on YouTube check out the link below. 

In today's episode I got a chance to hang out with the lead guitarist of Hoity Toity, Aria Hurtado. I discovered Aria one day while scrolling on TikTok and her insane guitar skills melted my face away. Little did I know I did not just discover one of the greatest guitarist of our time but also a podcast host's greatest wish: a person with stories. Aria shares her adventures performing all over including venues I grew up idolizing like The Whiskey a Go Go. Sit back and enjoy this Epic of a podcast where we took as much time to talk as it would for you to watch The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie and an extra episode. SO ENJOY!

If you would like to check out Aria's music or where to catch her with Hoity Toity check out the links below.

In today's episode I got a chance to catch up and hang out with a dear friend, Pancho Cardena. Pancho is an actor, singer, and martial artist who you can catch in the latest film Bullet Train as well as other TV shows such as Criminal Minds and Our Flag Means Death. To say this guy has had an extensive career thus far would be an understatement yet, if you ask him, he would say he's just got his foot in the door. Enjoy this episode as we talk about spirituality, the persistent spirit of an actor, and some fun Beatles talk.

If you'd like to catch more of Pancho's work please check out the links below.

In today's episode I get a chance to reconnect with a friend from my LA Opera days, Lorenzo Edwards. Lorenzo is a dancer, model, and muse. He has spent the last 8 months living in the City of Mexico and shared his journey to Mexico where he is now teaching dance and spreading the teachings his elders bestowed upon him. Lorenzo shares his start as a young black boy entering the world of dance with Ballet. Which then took him to the world of "Ballroom Culture" (Voguing). Through out this conversation Lorenzo gave me the impression that he is the type of person who has found the perfect balance with his ego. He knows who is, confident in what he can do, but he also radiates this sense of, knowing there is more to the world than just you. A beautiful conversation that I am proud to share with you.

If you would like to see more of Lorenzo's work and get a peak into his life check out his Instagram page:

Hey yall! In today's episode I had an idea. There was this friend, his name, Lance Amann. We lost this guy a little too early. Lanceypants here was a multitalented individual with so much love in his heart. I have mentioned Lance many times in previous episodes, and how he would have excelled like no other in this world of Tik Tok and YouTubers. For those who did not know he had a YouTube channel where he would post video game commentaries and song covers. There happen to be a couple videos of us playing a witchy game and having a ton of fun. So my idea: to bring together a couple of songs and the gameplay audio from that time with Lance.

If you are missing Lance Amann and want to see more please follow the link below to his YouTube channel.

In today's episode I got to do something I have not done yet...interview an entire band, Dead Lxve. Dead Lxve is the pop rock band from norcal with Jay Williz on vocals, Aaron Moore on guitar, and Ryan Gymnaites on drums. Truth be told I was nervous to interview an entire band but thankfully these fellas were so chill to hang out with. An open book to me as I let my curiosity lead me through their stories of over coming hardships (professionally and personally), their journey with music and how it has shaped and guided them through their lives. 

To keep up to date with everything Dead Lxve check out the links below for showdates and more.

In today's episode I got chance to talk with the founder of The Great Film Club here in Los Angeles, Sabrina Torres The Great (proudly self titled I might add). I have spoken to guests before about 'knowing you are precious' and Sabrina Torres embodies that in more ways than one. With the confidence of a freefalling skydiver, Sabrina has taken on challenges such as creating a film club (when one ends), creating a short film when she has never directed before, and even being herself which in this world can be the bravest thing a person does. Speaking to her was inspirational on its own and I am so excited for yall to listen in and 'realize your power'.

If you want to stay in the know with what Sabrina is up to follow the links below. The Great Film Club with also be linked down below.

In today's episode I got to hang out with singer songwriter, Tanner Howe. Tanner is a friend from work (as Thor would say), we performed together with Disneyland parades during the ACF show. We did not get the chance to work together for too long which makes this podcast extra special. I've already known of his talent when it comes to songwriting but I had no idea this man auditioned for Disneyland just off of a whim (BOLD). From the Kelly Clarkson show to the Y the F Not Podcast come get to know Tanner Howe.

If you would like to keep up to date with everything Tanner is working on check out his links below.

In today's episode I got a chance to chat with another old friend from college... but with a twist. His name is Woo S. Kim and I met this gent back in college and to me he was just another CSUN student hanging out in the green room. Spoiler Alert I was wrong! Makes me even happier to chit chat with Woo and get to know him better. His journey is one that has doctors baffled (truly) and still till this day he continues to blow their expectations out of the water. Come hang out and see how this man did not let anything stop him from being the best version of of himself, despite unimaginable obstacles .

To keep in touch with Woo and his film reviews follow the Links below 

In today's episode I got a chance to speak with Joe McClain Jr., a 20 year veteran, an author (with two best selling books on Amazon), and a Grand Slam Poetry Champion. Let me tell you what a joy it was to sit down and listen to this man's story. He shared stories about his travels with the Navy, his journey in writing 10 books afterwards, and his journey to becoming a champion in the Grand Slam Poetry world. What comes next? Listen in and find out. 

In today's episode I get a chance to speak to the director of Bonerman, that's right, Harim Sanchez! Harim is a week away from his premier and so I thought this would be the perfect time to catch up. This is Harim's first time director a full length feature film so we got a chance to chat about what goes into making a film as well as what films got us buzzin (Everything Everywhere All At Once I'm looking at you). You can catch Bonerman Aug 6th 2022 at WHAMMY!

 Link for tickets and information will be below.

In today's episode my special guest is a dear friend from...college! That's right, and today we have Sarkis Bakalyan, an American Armenian Actor, Screen writer, and comedian who makes me giggle. I had a great time talking about video games and Sarkis lets me know what is going on in the world on Konami. We also dive into some Kevin Smith movies (LOVE that dude), such as his new Clerks 3, Clerks, Dogma, and others.

If you'd like to find out what Sarkis is up to check out the link below.

In today's episode my special guest is Kianna Znika, also know as Lizzerd Kween, an LA based artist who got their/her/his start in 2020 when they decided to pick up a guitar and give their voice life. I found Lizzerd Kween through Tik Tok and it was her story that inspired me to invite her onto the show. Her story: 'lizzerd kween was born in 2020 when the songwriter impulsively bought an acoustic guitar and began writing her first songs. things took off quickly from there, leading to dozens of original songs and a popular tik tok account.
 pulling from a diverse array of emo, pop punk, and folk influences, lizzerd kween uses her authentic voice and raw lyricism to openly talk about life and mental health.'

If you want to keep up to date with Lizzerd Kween and their music check the links!

In today's episode I got a chance to hang out with another good friend of mine from college, Stephanie Hoston. Stephanie, like myself, comes from a mixed background culturally. We were able to connect and dive into what it means to be a Latine artist in this ever evolving world. Stephanie's career has spanned from commercial work to big time roles on TV series (cannot talk about anything specific *wink**wink*) If you want to stay in the loop with what Stephanie is up to visit her Instagram and IMDB page and check out her work.

Stephanie's Links:

In today's episode I got a chance to talk to an old friend, Rory Ross. I first met Rory during our time performing with the LA Opera as 'supers'. Beyond just being an actor, model, and philanthropist, Rory is a former farm boy who has gone through a Skywalker-esque tale. Battling through loss and pain, Rory is forging his own path to becoming the Jedi he was born to be.

In today's episode I speak with Zach Elefante. Zach is...well lets see: he is a performer, a film maker, and an inventor. I met Zach while performing at Disneyland and I get the chance to catch up with him and see what he's making next. Feel free to peek into what Zach is working on by checking out his Tik Tok and his mentioned weekly recaps. Oh, also, if you're in the market for WEB SHOOTERS this is your guy.

In today's episode I get to hang out with The Paris Nicole. Paris Nicole's career spans from dancing with Beyonce at the Oscar's to performing in hit shows such as the the TV show Bel-Air. She gives me a look into how she balances her life while working like no other in this crazy industry. 

'Paris Nicole is a Los Angeles native who has been in the performing arts since elementary school. She has trained under Wendy Raquel Robinson at Amazing Grace Conservatory (AGC) and studied improvisation at The Second City (Hollywood). She graduated from Cal State Northridge with a degree in Business Marketing and has since pursued a full time career as an actress, dancer and model. In 2018 she booked her first lead in a national tour as the host 'Dee' in "Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour." In total, she successfully completed 4 national runs and 200 shows across the country. She is now focused on doing film and television.'