Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Real Talk with Sadie

Today’s guest is someone whose artistry truly transforms stories! Emmy-winning makeup artist Rebecca Lee!

Rebecca took home an Emmy for her breathtaking work on Shōgun, and she’s now nominated again for The Last of Us Season 2. From designing Ellie’s iconic tattoo to creating the chilling scars and infected, her work brings unforgettable realism and depth to every character.

I can’t wait for you to hear her journey, her process, and the magic that happens when storytelling meets makeup artistry. Here’s my conversation with Rebecca Lee.

Michael Shawever's work as an editor has left a mark on some powerful films of our time, Creed, Black Panther, A Quiet Place Part II, and now the gripping new hit SINNERS. HIs ability to shape story, rhythm, and emotion from behind the scenes is a true art form. 

Today’s guest is the incredibly talented actor and writer, Chelsea Debo. Originally from Ohio, she moved to LA at 17 and has built a standout career with roles in Bull, Dead Wrong with Rob Schneider, and the wild film Free LSD starring Jack Black.

If you're in LA, don’t miss her one-act sci-fi thriller PHOENIX at the Hollywood Fringe Fest. It opens June 9th at the Activist Kitchen and runs just 35 minutes. Go see her in action! 

Social media can be a chaotic and overwhelming space, but it also has the power to connect us with incredible artists we might not have discovered otherwise. That’s exactly how I came across Attawalpa (Luis Felber)! A one-of-a-kind musician who writes, produces, and plays his own music. His sound is captivating, with tracks like ‘Always the Girls’ and his upcoming release ‘Hilarious in Love’ dropping March 21st. Beyond his own music, he’s also made waves in film, executive producing the soundtrack for Catherine Called Birdy and composing for Sharp Stick. Excited to dive into his journey and creative process!

On this episode, I sit down with film director Elliott Lester, known for his award-winning movie Nightingale. We’ll dive into his latest film, The Thicket, a gripping story starring Peter Dinklage and Juliette Lewis, which has already earned a Saturn Award nomination. Tune in to hear about his journey, creative process, and what’s next for this talented filmmaker!

Adam Dee is a one of a kind human! So genuine and incredibly talented in costume design! You'll listen to his astonishing journey and how he became part of the Heartstopper series! There are some really heartfelt conversations that will leave you in awe! 

Kerrice Brooks is authentic, refreshing, funny, and charismatic. They are going places! They star in one the best coming of age films, My Old Ass. It is written and directed by Megan Park, featuring Maisy Stella, Aubrey Plaza, and Maddie Ziegler. Kerrice plays Ro who is just a fun loving bestie who keeps it real. This movie will have you laugh, cry, and reflect on your life and you will want to watch this over and over again.

Matuse is making a name for himself starring in two huge movies this year playing Fang in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga and Dune in The Fall Guy starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. Matuse knew he wanted to be an actor ever since he saw Jim Carey in Ace Ventura and by the time he was about 10 years old he wrote his first script. Being from Southern Sydney Australia, he didn't see much representation of people like him in film and tv, but he is now on the journey of becoming that representation and inspiring others. He has a beautiful outlook on life, so much wisdom, and is a goal getter to say the least. What a pleasure getting to speak with a profound human. Ryan Gosling and George Miller have spoken highly of him and I know exactly why when speaking with Matuse.

Charlene Akuamoah is doing big things in the film industry with her keen eye for fashion. She is a magnificent costume designer who has traveled the world, got her first internship at Valentino, and is currently on set for a new show, BET coming to Netflix soon! Find her work in Avocado Toast the series, Robyn Hood, V/H/S94, and more! 

Liverpool actor, Alicia Forde was discovered during a play and from there she soon had her breakout role on the hit show Waterloo Road playing, Kelly Jo. I personally discovered Alicia from the BAFTA winning drama series, Time (series 2) directed by Andrea Harkin which stars, Jodie Whitaker, Tamara Lawrence, and Bella Ramsey. Time series 2 is set in a women's prison and you get see the intense journeys of each women navigating their life through it all. Alicia plays Sarah who is a very mysterious character and doesn't have the best intentions for others.  

I welcome film director, editor, and producer, Sean Olson to my podcast. His new movie Camp Hideout starring Christopher Llyod, Corbin Bleu, Amanda Leighton, and Ethan Drew is streaming now on Hulu! This movie transports you to the forest leaving you laughing plenty and maybe shedding a tear with some heartfelt messages. Learn about Sean's incredible journey in the film industry to learning about his childhood! 

"Ryan Cassata is an award-winning singer-songwriter, actor, performer, published writer, LGBTQ+ activist, and transgender motivational speaker. Ryan is passionate about spreading joy and empowering others, and is committed to educating the global community through his music and message. Ryan has been at the forefront of the transgender liberation movement since his early teens." 

I welcome  French Actor, Arnaud Valois to the podcast! Arnaud stars in Dan Levy’s new movie, Good Grief playing the role of Theo. It’s a moving story about loss, love and friendship. Out on Netflix now! He is also passionate about theater and is currently in the works of his own project! Arnaud is charismatic, funny, and is brilliant in front of the camera! 

I welcome Mean Girls (2024) costume designer, Tom Broecker. He's also known for his work on SNL, 30 Rock, and House of Cards.

Costume design is a crucial element in filmmaking as it plays a significant role in enhancing the overall visual and narrative impact of a movie. Costumes help define and develop characters by visually communicating aspects of their personality, social status, occupation, and even their emotional state. The clothing a character wears can provide valuable insights into their background and motivations.

I welcome Mean Girls hair department head, Dennis Bailey. He's known for his work on SNL, Pain Hustlers, City on a Hill, Coming 2 America, and so much more! He is a bundle of joy, has a great outlook life, and is so passionate about his career! 

Hair is important to many people. It’s a way to express yourself. When you are watching one of your favorite movies whether it’s an action or a period piece, or modern day romance, you name it. Just remember a hairstylist worked on your beloved characters. Hair brings out character development, time and setting, storytelling, and cultural representation. It’s a crucial aspect in film.

Adam Wedd is an outstanding singer, songwriter, and producer from the U.K. Not only that, but genuine, cheerful, and one of the kindest people I know. He is self made and is on the up and up with his latest single, pink dinosaurs and EP, pop goes the indie kid. Adam is on an incredible music journey, so don't miss out! 

Know her name! Costume Designer, Dominique Dawson. She is Emmy nominated for Outstanding Contemporary Costumes For A Limited Or Anthology Series for the Amazon Original, Swarm!
-
Series Produced by Donald Glover, Stephen Glover, and Janine Nabers.
- 
Cast includes Dominique Fishback, Chloe Bailey, Billie Eilish, Damson Idris, and more!
-
An obsessed, Houston-based fan who goes to increasingly violent lengths for her favorite R&B singer.

 I was at a Mae Martin & Friends show and they brought out a special musical guest and I was absolutely mesmerized. I welcome Thomas Aren to the podcast! He is a singer, songwriter, producer, and guitarist.  His latest song Middle and Weight are streaming on Spotify! 

It is still no surprise that I am a huge fan of The Last of Us. With that being said, I had the best time interviewing  Emmy Nominated, Chris Glimsdale who is the Department Head Hairstylist for The Last of Us. They are specifically nominated for episode 3 , Long Long Time (Bill and Frank episode) Please check out Chris’s fantastic work because she has worked on some hit films and shows like, Heartland, War of the Planet of the Apes, The Bourne Legacy, and so much more! Please go check out her IMDB because it’s absolutely incredible!

The internet and social media can be a very overwhelming and negative place, but there are also beautiful and amazing things that the internet brings. For me, social media is a way to connect with others all around the world and I get to discover incredibly talented people that I probably wouldn't have otherwise. So thanks to social media I have discovered an up and coming musician who writes and plays the most emotional, beautiful, raw, and authentic songs. He currently has an EP, Tidal Wave with a song going viral called Two Ghosts about losing a friend and my gosh how he uses his song to grieve and to feel the emotions is profound. I welcome Tim Ostrowsky, famously known from the band Morning Crush to the podcast.

Always remember when you're watching your favorite tv show or movie, just know there were people working diligently at a desk editing frame by frame, hours upon hours to piece together the story you love.

It’s no surprise that I am a huge fan of The Last of Us! Well get this, it has been Emmy nominated 24 times from Outstanding Lead Actor and Actress in a Drama Series to “drum roll” Outstanding Picture Editing For A Drama Series - I spoke with  Emmy nominated editors Emily Mendez and Timothy Good, ACE for their incredible work for The Last of Us. They reminisce on some of their favorite episodes to edit such as episode 3, Long, Long Time and episode 7, Left Behind. Listen to what goes behind the scenes to create such a masterpiece of storytelling. They are talented beyond words and I was captivated by everything they said. What a fun day it was! Congratulations to you both.  

I would say I have finally gotten to amaetur level of doing my makeup and that’s saying something. I am in complete awe of anyone who can do their makeup, but what I am really fascinated by are makeup artists in the film industry. It requires so much attention to detail and collaboration. They are designing each character's look, applying makeup products on actors' faces and bodies and using prosthetics to create special makeup effects. I welcome the talented makeup artist, Akemi Nakashima who does makeup for film and theater. Akemi was nominated by the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards for Best Contemporary Makeup for a Feature-Length Motion Picture, Captain Fantastic, she has also worked on makeup and hair for a Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ video, Dance off, and commercials for Amazon and Adidas.

I had the pleasure speaking with Canadian Hair Stylist, Judy Durbacz who was the Hair Stylist for the Emmy Nominated series, The Last of Us! Judy worked closely with two incredible actors, Anna Torv who played Tess and Melanie Lynskey who played Kathleen. Judy is wildly talented and has a keen eye! 

If you've seen Ted Lasso then you know how epic of a show it was. Full of laughter, cries, yelling, and cheering. I can guarantee many of you have fell in love with at least one or all of the main characters like, Roy Kent or Ted Lasso. But I fell in love with the die hard AFC Richmond fan, Baz who never misses a game at the pub. Baz is played by the incredibly talented and witty actor, Adam Colborne. 

We had the best time discussing Baz's time at the pub, an evening night with his buds around London (Beard's Night Out), and how much "beer" he had to endure!

One of my favorite feel-good movies is Catherine Called Birdy written and directed by Lena Dunham - starring Bella Ramsey, Andrew Scott, Joe Alywn, and Isis Hainsworth. It’s about a young girl named Catherine aka Birdy , who’s family is in a financial crisis and to restore some hope, Catherine must be wedded off to a wealthy suitor. Her boldness, independence, and wit throughout the journey is very entertaining. If you need a good laugh but also want something heartfelt please go watch on prime video. 

There are also some other wildly talented cast members in this film that you may have not heard of. But today you will know one of their names! I welcome Michael Woolfitt who plays Birdy’s heart brother, Perkin. Perkin is just a lovable character full of kindness, joy, and playfulness. The bond that Birdy and Perkin have is very special. You will absolutely want Perkin to be your best bud too. The kicker of it all is that this was Michael's very first film!

Disclaimer- Suicide discussion begins at 53:00 mark and ends at 58:00
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress. By calling or texting 988, you'll connect to mental health professionals with the Lifeline network.

Do you ever wish you could transport yourself to the location of one of your favorite films or tv shows? I certainly have! I welcome Tom Duke to the podcast! We had a wonderful conversation about his niche career all about film and photography! 

Please head over to his Instagram before listening so you get an understanding for exactly what he does! |  @steppingthroughfilm

This is part 2 of the fabulous chat with Costume Designer, Cynthia Summers. She is known for her brilliant work in the new hit series The Last Of Us, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Swan Song, The Babysitters Club, and much more! Cynthia has shared some incredible stories and insight on what goes behind the scenes working on set.  She is one of the kindest people I have ever met and has a big heart! I have learned so much! 

Costume Design is an absolute vital role in the film industry. It tells a story and brings the character to life. I had a delightful conversation with the one and only Costume Designer, Cynthia Summers. She is known for her brilliant work in the new hit series The Last Of Us, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Swan Song, The Babysitters Club, and much more! She has been recognized and rewarded by the Daytime Emmys for her outstanding work! Not only did we talk about costumes, but we also talked about her love for nature and animals!

Stay tuned for Part 2! 

I was absolutely blown away when speaking with Sparky Tehnsuko. He is an outstanding  writer and director from the United Kingdom best known for his short film, Villain starring Bella Ramsey and Isla Gie. Villain is a profound film about an orphaned girl who seeks revenge on the creature that destroyed her home, but discovers more in its lair than she bargained for.

Not only did we talk about Villain, but we also had amazing conversations about his passions in life and what makes him fulfilled. He is truly brilliant and I can't wait to see more work from Sparky. 

Villain Discussion starts at 21:05

Michael Jordan, Nike, and Sonny Vaccaro ring a bell? How about Asanté Deshon? Well get ready to know his name who had a breakthrough role in the 2023 hit movie, AIR playing a charismatic and witty 711 clerk. You may also know him from the TV series Chicago Fire and 9-1-1.
 
Asanté grew up in the south side of Chicago overcoming obstacles from bullying to figuring out if he wants to continue with college. Despite the challenges he has put in incredible work making a huge name for himself so get ready!

AIR movie is about Sonny Vaccaro and Nike pursue basketball rookie Michael Jordan, creating a partnership that revolutionizes the world of sports and contemporary culture.  Cast includes Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Jason Bateman, Viola Davis, and Chris Tucker.

AIR discussion starts at 38:00 minute mark!

I had the pleasure speaking with up and coming actor, Ana Rice who recently starred in the hit HBO Series, The Last of Us. Ana appeared on the season finale (Episode 9) as one of the nurses who preps Ellie Williams (Bella Ramsey) only to be interrupted by Joel Miller's (Pedro Pascal) rescue.

IMBD: Ana Rice, born in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. A graduate of the Acting Program at Vancouver Film School and is fluent in Spanish & English. She is also a professionally trained dancer, focused mainly in the realm Jazz & Tap. Ana is an ACTRA member and currently resides in Canada.

Please be advised that the 43 minute mark talks about sexual harassmen