Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Right For The Role with John Frank Levey
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right For The Role Trailer | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:03:35 | |
Right For The Role launches on December 11th. Learn what the show is about and hear clips from our first set of interviews in Season 1. | |||
| Control Your Destiny: Eriq La Salle on Breaking Barriers and Building Legacy | 11 Dec 2024 | 01:05:26 | |
Three-time Emmy-nominated actor, director, and author Eriq La Salle joins legendary casting director John Frank Levey for a candid conversation about breaking barriers and creating lasting change in Hollywood. This wide-ranging discussion explores La Salle's remarkable journey from a young theater student in Hartford to becoming one of television's highest-paid African American actors. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflection, La Salle and Levey examine how race, representation, and the pursuit of creative control have shaped their careers and the entertainment industry. Key moments from the episode:
This conversation offers invaluable insights for anyone pursuing a creative career, particularly those facing systemic barriers. La Salle's strategic approach to building a multi-faceted career – from acting to directing to writing novels – demonstrates how to maintain both artistic integrity and professional longevity in an often challenging industry.
To connect with Eriq La Salle:
To connect with John Frank Levey, please visit his website: https://www.johnfranklevey.com/ To order a signed copy of John’s memoir, Right for the Role: https://www.johnfranklevey.com/book Acknowledgments Photographer Eusebio Hernandez specializes in “hero shots” — his own artistic spin on headshots. He helped John Frank Levey, who typically hates having his picture taken, feel comfortable enough to get a great shot for his memoir "Right for the Role." Learn more at www.heroshots.la. The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It’s the TruStory (https://www.itsthetrustory.com) | |||
| Having It All vs. Doing It All: Sasha Alexander on Acting, Parenting, and Finding Balance | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:49:37 | |
Actor Sasha Alexander joins host John Frank Levey for a candid conversation about balancing a successful acting career with family life and the pursuit of creative fulfillment. Drawing from her extensive experience across shows like "Dawson’s Creek," "NCIS," and "Rizzoli & Isles," Alexander shares honest insights about the challenges of maintaining authenticity both on and off-screen. The discussion weaves through her European upbringing, approach to complex roles, and recent journey of prioritizing family while navigating industry changes. In this episode: • How Alexander’s Serbian-Italian heritage and European exposure shaped her artistic sensibilities and acting approach TV shows discussed in this conversation:
Connect:
Acknowledgments Photographer Eusebio Hernandez specializes in “hero shots” — his own artistic spin on headshots. He helped John Frank Levey, who typically hates having his picture taken, feel comfortable enough to get a great shot for his memoir "Right for the Role." Learn more at www.heroshots.la. The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It’s the TruStory (https://www.itsthetrustory.com) | |||
| Don't Wait, Create: A Hilarious Conversation With Dennis Dugan About Taking Creative Risks Seriously | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:51:11 | |
Veteran director Dennis Dugan joins John Frank Levey to share how embracing life's unexpected turns and maintaining a playful spirit shaped his remarkable journey from actor to billion-dollar comedy director. Through candid stories spanning his early theater days to directing Adam Sandler films, Dugan reveals how every seeming setback opened new doors. His conversation with Levey explores the delicate balance between taking creative risks and building lasting industry relationships. In this episode:
A masterclass in turning setbacks into opportunities and maintaining creative passion across a five-decade career in Hollywood. TV shows and movies discussed in this conversation:
Connect:
Acknowledgments: Photographer Eusebio Hernandez specializes in "hero shots" — his own artistic spin on headshots. He helped John Frank Levey, who typically hates having his picture taken, feel comfortable enough to get a great shot for his memoir "Right for the Role." Learn more at www.heroshots.la. The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It's the TruStory (https://www.itsthetrustory.com) | |||
| Leading With Joy: Shanola Hampton on Shining Your Light & Making an Indelible Impact | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:45:43 | |
The radiant Shanola Hampton joins her longtime friend John Frank Levey to share her remarkable journey from a five-year-old with a dream to becoming the lead of NBC's "Found" after her unforgettable run as Veronica on "Shameless." In this heartfelt conversation, Shanola opens up about how faith, family, and education shaped her path, including a touching story about a minister's prophecy during her childhood that sustained her through years of almost-but-not-quite moments in Hollywood. In this episode:
This conversation is a joyful masterclass in perseverance, authenticity, and the magic that happens when artists create safe spaces to do their best work.
Connect:
Acknowledgments: The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It’s the TruStory (https://www.itsthetrustory.com) | |||
| Taking Pride in Your Career: Tim Bagley on Learning, Growing, and Staying True to Yourself | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:54:10 | |
Veteran actor Tim Bagley joins John Frank Levey to discuss his remarkable three-decade career spanning hundreds of roles. From his early days studying with renowned acting coaches to becoming a Groundlings mainstay, Tim shares how his commitment to authenticity and continuous growth has shaped his craft and journey as an openly gay performer in Hollywood. Through candid stories about his experiences on shows like ER, Southland, and Somebody Somewhere, Tim reveals how he approaches each character with empathy and psychological depth – whether playing a flasher, an OCD patient, or a Supreme Court clerk opposite Sally Field. The conversation explores how his background in improv and dedication to ongoing training have enabled him to tackle dramatically diverse roles while staying true to himself. In this episode:
Tim's story exemplifies how embracing authenticity, both personally and professionally, while maintaining a spirit of continuous learning can lead to a rich and enduring career in the arts. TV shows and plays discussed in this conversation:
Connect
Acknowledgments
The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It’s the TruStory | |||
| The Roles That Form & Change Us: Noah Wyle on ER, Activism & Longevity in Show Biz | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:46:04 | |
In this intimate conversation, Noah reflects on how his role as Dr. John Carter evolved from an uncertain medical student to a confident physician, mirroring his own growth as an actor and person. From his early resistance to television work to becoming one of the medium's most enduring presences, Noah discusses how ER's groundbreaking approach to diversity, storytelling, and medical authenticity changed both his career trajectory and emergency medicine itself. He shares moving insights about working alongside acting legends and the powerful mentorship dynamic between his character and Eriq La Salle's Dr. Peter Benton.
Through candid stories and thoughtful reflection, Noah illuminates how finding the roles you're right for – both on-screen and off – can lead to profound personal and professional growth. TV shows discussed in this conversation
Connect
Photographer Eusebio Hernandez specializes in "hero shots" — his own artistic spin on headshots. He helped John Frank Levey, who typically hates having his picture taken, feel comfortable enough to get a great shot for his memoir "Right for the Role." Learn more at www.heroshots.la. The Right for the Role podcast would not have been possible without the generous support of PBS Management, Karen Cease, and the estate of Peg Sweesy. Many thanks to my producers, Jerod Morris and Trudi Roth of It's the TruStory (https://www.itsthetrustory.com) | |||
| Richard Lawson: Never Fear Forging Your Own Path | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:44:10 | |
Richard Lawson has built a career that spans decades, yet his passion for acting, teaching, writing, and mentoring continues to evolve with purpose. In this conversation, he reflects on the experiences that shaped his creative life, from serving in Vietnam as a medic to discovering acting as his life's calling and developing the resilience that has carried him through thousands of auditions, setbacks, and successes. The discussion explores how personal hardship can become a foundation for growth when you commit to serving others instead of allowing difficult experiences to define your future. Through powerful stories from the battlefield, the classroom, and the entertainment industry, the conversation reveals how empathy, gratitude, and a clear sense of purpose have guided every stage of a remarkable career. The episode also takes listeners behind the scenes of Hollywood, offering an honest look at rejection, career longevity, and the realities actors face while pursuing meaningful work. Richard shares why creating opportunities for yourself matters just as much as booking auditions, how separating your identity from your profession creates resilience, and why maintaining integrity often requires difficult decisions. John Frank Levey and Richard Lawson also discuss the responsibility that comes with mentoring the next generation, the value of remaining in service to your craft and your community, and the lasting impact of choosing purpose over recognition. The conversation closes with thoughtful reflections on legacy, gratitude, and the simple daily question of whose life you can positively influence through your work and your presence. Key Takeaways
Follow Richard Lawson on Instagram @mrrichardlawson | @hyperlensstudios Connect With Richard On His Websites richardlawsonstudios.com | |||
| Susan Rovner: How Resilience, Change, and Independence Lead to Growth & Success | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:43:02 | |
The experiences that shape your life rarely stay confined to childhood, and the lessons you learn through adversity often influence every major decision that follows. You’re about to dig into a conversation that explores how resilience, independence, and a willingness to embrace change can shape a meaningful career, strong relationships, and a lasting impact on the people around you. On this episode of Right For The Role, John Frank Levey is joined by Susan Rovner to talk about the moments that shaped her path from a determined young woman navigating her parents' divorce to one of the most respected television executives in Hollywood. Together, they explore how listening before speaking, trusting your instincts, and embracing calculated risks can open doors to opportunities that may never have been part of your original plan. The conversation also offers an inside look at the creative side of the television industry, examining how honest feedback, thoughtful leadership, and genuine collaboration help writers, actors, and producers do their best work. From giving constructive notes to navigating difficult career decisions, these stories reveal how respect and empathy can strengthen creative partnerships and build lasting professional relationships. You’ll also get an up-close look at the rapidly growing world of the micro series and the new opportunities it’s creating for storytellers and performers. It also reflects on lifelong learning, career reinvention, mentorship, and why continuing to discover the roles that align with your strengths can create a more fulfilling personal and professional life. Key takeaways from this episode:
Catch Up With Susan Rovner! Websites: atwist.com | aha-studios.com | |||
| Ming-Na Wen: How Authenticity & Gratitude Can Shape a Career | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:44:02 | |
Some careers last because of talent, while others endure because of the character, resilience, and perspective behind that talent. Ming-Na Wen reflects on the experiences that have shaped her remarkable journey, sharing how authenticity, gratitude, and a commitment to lifelong growth have guided every stage of her career. John Frank Levey and Ming-Na discuss the importance of embracing your identity instead of trying to fit someone else's expectations, especially in an industry that has historically relied on stereotypes. Their conversation explores how thoughtful conversations with creative leaders, confidence in your own voice, and a willingness to stay true to your values can create opportunities that have a lasting impact. Every career includes moments when the phone stops ringing, and Ming-Na offers an honest perspective on navigating those quieter seasons with patience and purpose. She explains how investing time in family, personal interests, travel, and new experiences creates a richer life while also strengthening the work you bring to every future opportunity. This conversation also explores the responsibility that comes with success and why using your platform to support meaningful causes creates fulfillment beyond professional achievements. John and Ming-Na examine how advocacy, community involvement, and maintaining a strong sense of gratitude can help you build a career that reflects who you are while making a positive difference in the lives of others. Key Takeaways
Connect With Ming-Na on Instagram Grab a Copy of Ming-Na's cookbook, Have You Eaten Yet? | |||
| Lisa Edelstein: Embracing Growth, Change, and Reinvention Personally & Professionally | 15 Jul 2026 | 00:41:48 | |
There comes a point in everyone's life and career where choosing a new path is the only way to move forward. Lisa Edelstein joins John Frank Levey for a thoughtful conversation about creative reinvention, personal identity, and the choices that help shape a meaningful life on this episode of Right For The Role. Drawing from her experiences as an actor, writer, and artist, she explains how pursuing creative work for the joy of the process can provide clarity and fulfillment. John and Lisa also discuss the pressure performers often feel to seek external validation and how stepping away from that mindset can open the door to genuine self-discovery. Lisa shares how engaging in creative practices without the expectation of an audience allowed her to reconnect with her own interests, values, and sense of purpose. In addition, this conversation explores the importance of owning your unique background, building rituals that create stability, and making space for creative expression in everyday life. Lisa offers practical insight into how small, intentional practices can help anyone cultivate a stronger connection to their authentic self and continue growing through the simple act of doing. Key takeaways from this episode:
Follow Lisa Edelstein on Instagram | |||
| John Stamos: The Role That Changed Everything (and How The Beach Boys Discovered Him) | 08 Jul 2026 | 00:46:45 | |
It's the Season 2 Premiere of Right For The Role and, in this episode, John Frank Levey sits down with John Stamos for a conversation about the moments that shaped his career long before audiences knew his name. Together, they explore the value of learning from experienced mentors, why curiosity has remained one of John's greatest strengths, and how paying close attention to the people around you can create opportunities that no audition ever could. As is tradition on Right For The Role, the conversation moves beyond acting to examine the personal work required to build a lasting career. John reflects on the importance of understanding your own experiences (like getting hooked up with The Beach Boys), embracing honesty instead of protecting your image, and recognizing how self-awareness gives performers the ability to connect with both their work and the people they meet throughout their lives. The duo also discuss rejection, career setbacks, and the pressure that comes with high-stakes moments when everything feels like it is on the line. They unpack why many disappointments have more to do with timing and circumstance than talent, how perspective changes the way you recover from failure, and why persistence continues to open doors for people who remain committed to their craft. Throughout this episode:
Television shows discussed on this episode:
Connect with John Stamos on Instagram | |||
| Dana Delany: How to Trust Your Instincts In a Tough Industry | 12 Aug 2026 | 00:26:27 | |
Dana Delany has built a career around following her instincts, embracing meaningful roles, and allowing her personal values to shape the choices she makes professionally. In this deeply personal conversation, John Frank Levey reconnects with his longtime friend to explore where Dana’s creative drive began, from childhood trips to the theater in Connecticut to her early experiences on Broadway and the realization that acting was a calling she had felt since she was three years old. John and Dana revisit their time working together on China Beach, including the audition that eventually led Dana to the role of Colleen McMurphy and the unusual story of how she accidentally showed up for her audition a day early. Their conversation also examines the impact of that series, the authenticity Dana brought to Colleen, and how the experience taught her to trust her instincts while recognizing the responsibility actors carry when their work reaches millions of people. Dana also opens up about the creative choices that have shaped her career, including her attraction to complicated female characters, her lifelong fascination with film noir, and her decision to turn down roles when something about the material or the people behind it did not align with her standards. John and Dana discuss the changing nature of television, the loss of intimate storytelling, the evolution of the audition process through self-tapes, and why Dana has increasingly gravitated toward independent films and projects with people she trusts. The conversation ultimately becomes an exploration of identity, family, personal responsibility, and the lifelong process of discovering who you are through the choices you make. Dana reflects on using performance as a child to connect with her parents, the significance of her father seeing her perform on Broadway before his death, and the three words she chooses to describe herself today: curious, present, and a loner. Key takeaways from the conversation:
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| Katherine LaNasa: The Greatest Rewards Come From Unbreakable Positivity | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:31:12 | |
Sometimes the role that means the most arrives after you have spent decades preparing for it without realizing where that preparation is leading. For Katherine LaNasa, playing Charge Nurse Dana Evans on The Pitt brought together her experiences as a dancer, actor, mother, cancer survivor, and longtime working professional in ways that gave the character a deeply personal foundation. Katherine joins John Frank Levey to explore the winding path that brought her there, from discovering ballet as a young girl and pursuing professional dance to entering Hollywood, learning the language of cinema from Dennis Hopper, and navigating the expectations placed on women throughout her acting career. Their conversation reveals how the people you meet, the challenges you endure, and the roles you take on throughout your life can ultimately shape the way you approach the work when the right role finally arrives. Katherine and John explore her transition from dance into acting and the significance of working on shows such as ER, where she found opportunities to portray women with intelligence, sexuality, complexity, and genuine inner lives. Their conversation examines the pressures Katherine experienced when Hollywood placed heavy expectations on women to maintain a particular appearance, along with how changing opportunities in television and streaming eventually allowed her to approach her work with greater freedom and depth. Katherine also discusses the perspective that comes with building a career over decades, including eight series regular roles, more than 25 recurring roles, films, and countless guest appearances before receiving the opportunity to work on a major hit at this stage of her career. As John and Katherine consider the experiences that prepare you for the roles you eventually receive, the conversation becomes a thoughtful examination of perseverance, creative confidence, aging, resilience, and the personal history each actor brings into the room. Key takeaways from the conversation:
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| Ana Gasteyer: Mastering the Power of "Yes, And..." | 26 Aug 2026 | 00:42:59 | |
What happens when the skills that shape your creative life also shape the way you connect with other people? Ana Gasteyer joins John Frank Levey for a wide-ranging conversation about improv, collaboration, community, perseverance, and the winding path that took her from music and theater in Washington, D.C., to Northwestern, the Groundlings, Saturday Night Live, Broadway, television, film, and a career that continues to evolve. Ana and John explore the influence of improv on her approach to acting, particularly the principles of saying yes, listening carefully, maintaining eye contact, and building something with the person standing across from you. Ana also opens up about the anxiety that can make auditions so difficult, explaining how she learned to trust her instincts and how her daughter’s ability to listen during self-tapes has reinforced her belief that active listening remains one of the most important skills an actor can develop. The conversation traces Ana’s unconventional route into professional acting, including her childhood exposure to music, her early performances at the Washington Opera, her experience at Northwestern, and her discovery of improv comedy through the university’s Meow Show. Ana also reflects on six seasons of Saturday Night Live, the pressure of creating material under intense deadlines, the preparation that helped her succeed in the audition, and the career-changing discipline she brought to major opportunities such as SNL, Wicked, and, most recently, as a Tony Award-nominated star in the Broadway musical Schmigadoon! Key takeaways from the conversation:
Follow Ana Gasteyer on Instagram | |||