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Explore every episode of the podcast Tails and Tassels

Dive into the complete episode list for Tails and Tassels. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Catbaret Show Highlights and Behind-the-Scenes27 Feb 202500:22:12

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this solo episode, I’m sharing an inside look at the most recent Catbaret!, my NYC-based cat-themed variety show! From behind-the-scenes moments to my personal reflections on the last show, you’ll get an unfiltered look at what it takes to bring this production to life. Plus, I’ll share my opening monologue from the show!

Watch the opening monologue on Youtube! Watch here

Resources & Links:
šŸŽ­Ā  Capezio Fishnet Tights – My Go-To for Performing! Buy here
😺  Shop Catbaret Merch – Tees, Totes & More!
šŸŽ™ļøĀ  Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Stay Connected:
🐾 Follow Tails and Tassels on Instagram: @tailsandtasselspod
šŸŽ­ Check out Catbaret: @catbaretshow
🌐 Visit Catbaret's website: catbaretshow.com

Got a story to share about your cat? I’d love to hear from you! Message me on Instagram or email tailsandtasselspod@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening—I'm paws-itively thrilled you're here! 🐾✨

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Neysa Lozano: How Theater, Tarot and Cats Shape Her Creative World20 Feb 202500:39:37

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­

There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this week’s Tails and Tassels, Gemma sits down with the multi-talented Neysa Lozano, an actor, avant-garde theater artist, tarot reader, and storyteller. Neysa shares how her love for performance and mysticism intertwine, from her theatrical roots to crafting compelling narratives. She also dives into the inspiration behind her heartfelt storytelling piece at Catbaret, where she honored her beloved cat, Buddy. Plus, Neysa treats us to some spot-on cat impressions and talks about the special bond she shares with her cats, Buddy and Midnight.

šŸ“– Resources & Links:

🐾 Connect with Neysa:

šŸ’Œ Connect with Us:

⭐ Subscribe & Review:

Follow Tails and Tassels on your favorite podcast app and don’t forget to leave us a review—it really helps us grow! šŸ’–

Support the show

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Jennifer Yadav: Balancing a Creative Career & Tips for New Pet Parents12 Dec 202400:39:14

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Jennifer Yadav, a multi-talented performer and proud cat mom to three senior kitties. Jennifer shares her journey from theater to television and film, offering invaluable advice for actors on building a sustainable career and tips for artists considering a move to NYC. Plus, she discusses the joys and responsibilities of life with cats, sharing practical advice for pet parents on providing the best care.

Help shape our Patreon community! We want to hear from you about the rewards and content you’d love to see. Complete the form here and let us know your thoughts!

Resources:

Connect with Jennifer:

Get in Touch:


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Lady Mabuhay: The Art of Burlesque Storytelling & Stage Kittening Tips28 Nov 202400:37:53

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Lady Mabuhay, a versatile "Jane of all trades" and a dynamic storyteller who brings her creative talents to the NYC burlesque scene. Lady Mabuhay shares her journey, from classical Indian dance training to her transition to burlesque, where she’s been performing for over 8 years. She talks about her Little Stinky Kitty act, which channels the energy of a cat with the zoomies,Ā  and offers essential tips for stage kittens looking to shine! They also discuss her beloved senior cat, Charlie, who keeps her grounded. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about artistry, creativity and the joy of being a "cat mom."

Help shape our Patreon community! We want to hear from you about the rewards and content you’d love to see. Complete the form here and let us know your thoughts!

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

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Fey Tality: Come to the Cat's Eye Cabaret14 Nov 202400:39:29

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Fey Tality, a dynamic aerialist and performer with a background in theater. Fey shares her love for storytelling through her aerial acts, focusing on building characters and weaving narratives into her performances. She also talks about Cat's Eye Cabaret, her monthly variety show that features a new theme each time, ranging from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and What We Do in the Shadows to Marvel and beyond. Plus, Fey gives us a glimpse into life with her two beloved cats, Dodger and Mr. Albus, and unravels the dynamic of their relationships.

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

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Stephen Quandt: Do You Need Cat Behavior Help?31 Oct 202400:39:36

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually, we’ve got you covered! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com and join us for a night of cat-themed comedy, music and burlesque!

--

In this special bonus episode, we’re joined by Stephen Quandt, a Feline Training and Behavior Specialist and the expert behind Cat Behavior Help, to unravel the mysteries of feline behavior. Stephen offers a wealth of knowledge that every cat lover will find invaluable. Whether you’re dealing with a feisty feline or just curious about what makes your cat tick, this episode is packed with insights that will help you create a happier and healthier environment for your furry friend.

Stephen is a Feline Training and Behavior Specialist certified through the Animal Behavior Institute (ABI). He is a professional cat behaviorist with over 20 years of experience working with cats in private consultations, animal shelters such as Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation, Ready For Rescue, City Critters, the Wisconsin Humane Society, and the Animal Care Centers of NYC and in the field. He's also the author of the children's book "Happy Comes Home."

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

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Tabby Twitch: Performing in Her Prime17 Oct 202400:29:56

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Tabby Twitch, the friskiest feline in burlesque. She shares her journey of finding burlesque in the prime of her life and creating Prime, a show that celebrates performers at the height of their powers. With a background in both performing and producing, Tabby talks about her creative process, the empowerment of performing in your prime, and how she’s redefining what it means to own the stage at any age.

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

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Gatita Negra: Slinking Across Stages Coast to Coast + Building Community Space03 Oct 202400:44:39

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually, we’ve got you covered! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com and join us for a night of cat-themed comedy, music and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Gatita Negra, a dynamic burlesque performer who began her journey in California, has performed internationally, and has now moved back to NYC. They dive into Gatita’s inspiration, creative process, and stage persona, which is deeply rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage. Gatita also shares how she’s renovating her new home, Moonset Maison, with her own black cat, Mafalda, and how the house aims to become a community space. Tune in to explore Gatita’s artistic evolution and her exciting new chapter in NYC with Mafalda by her side.

Links:

Catsbury Park Cat Convention

  • Saturday 10/5 11am-7pm at Bell Works in Holmdel New Jersey
  • Get tickets here.

Get in Touch:

Support the show

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Pussy Leigh: Exploring Cat-Inspired Burlesque and the Cat Lady Life03 Oct 202400:35:13

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually, we’ve got you covered! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com and join us for a night of cat-themed comedy, music and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Pussy Leigh, a talented burlesque purr-former who is a regular at the Catbaret, Gemma's cat-themed variety show in NYC. They explore Pussy's journey in burlesque and developing cat-themed acts both as a solo performer and as part of her duo, Kitten Coven, with Tabby Twitch. Alongside her artistic journey, Pussy shares heartwarming stories about her two adorable cats, Conan and Gordon. She talks about her special rituals with her beloved kitties, including playtime, giving lots of love, and embracing the cat lady life. Tune in to hear about Pussy’s creative process and her very "cute life."

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Maria Bartolotta: Crafting a Solo Show and Life with Patches03 Oct 202400:47:23

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret Show! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually, we’ve got you covered! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com and join us for a night of cat-themed comedy, music and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Maria Bartolotta, a talented purr-former who is a regular at the Catbaret, a cat-themed variety show. They explore Maria’s journey in creating her solo show, I've Grown Plenty, Thanks, which recently premiered at the Hollywood Fringe Festival. With over a decade of versatile performance experience, Maria discusses how her art reflects real-life experiences and connects with audiences. Alongside her artistic journey, Maria shares stories about her beloved rescue kitty, Patches. Tune in to hear about Maria’s creative process and her life with her emotionally available feline friend.

Links:

Get in Touch:

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Welcome to Tails and Tassels: Meet Your Host, Gemma03 Oct 202400:05:26

Hello, kitty cats! Welcome to Tails and Tassels! I'm your host, Gemma Smith—manager at a Kitten Nursery by day and host of the Catbaret, a cat-themed variety show in NYC by night! In this introductory episode, I share my inspiration in creating this podcast, creative and burlesque journey and what YOU can expect as a listener.

Get ready to dive into the world of burlesque and nightlife performers, exploring their craft, their cats, and how these worlds intertwine. Expect tips for performers and cat parents, plus bonus episodes with feline experts!

We’re launching with three episodes on October 3, with new episodes every other Thursday. Subscribe, rate, and review, and connect with us on Instagram @tailsandtasselspod.

Thank you for listening! I’m paws-itively delighted you’re here!

Links:

Get in Touch:

I’d love to hear from you! What are you most excited to learn about on Tails and Tassels? Connect with me on Instagram, e-mail me at tailsandtasselspod@gmai..com or leave a comment!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Sneak Peek: Tails and Tassels Podcast Premiere16 Jul 202400:01:44

Hello, kitty cats! Welcome to Tails and Tassels! I'm your host, Gemma Smith—manager at a Kitten Nursery by day and host of the Catbaret by night!

In this podcast, we’ll dive into the world of burlesque and nightlife performers, exploring their craft, their cats, and how these worlds collide. Expect tips for purr-formers and cat parents, plus bonus episodes with feline experts!

We’re launching with three episodes on October 3, with new episodes every other Thursday. Subscribe, rate, and review, and connect with us on Instagram @tailsandtasselspod.

Thank you for listening! I’m paws-itively delighted you’re here!

Links:

Get in Touch:

I’d love to hear from you! What are you most excited to learn about on Tails and Tassels? Connect with me on Instagram or leave a comment!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Galentine’s Day & Why Cats Make the Best Friends!13 Feb 202500:08:54

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this special Galentine’s Day episode, we’re celebrating friendship—both human and feline! Whether you're spending the day with friends, loved ones, or just your cat, we’ll dive into five heartwarming reasons why cats make the best companions. From their emotional support to their quirky, lovable personalities, you’ll learn why your feline friend is truly your BFF.

So grab your cat, cozy up, and let's celebrate the special bond we share with our pets!

Resources & Links:
šŸ“Œ History of Galentine's Day – Learn more here
šŸŽ™ļø Episode with Stephen Quandt on Feline Behavior – Listen here
šŸ“„ 2019 Study on Cat Ownership & Heart Health – Read the study
😺 Funny Cat Videos & Happiness Research – Check it out

Stay Connected:
🐾 Follow Tails and Tassels on Instagram: @tailsandtasselspod
šŸŽ­ Check out Catbaret: @catbaretshow
🌐 Visit my website: GemmaSmithNYC

Got a story to share about your cat? I’d love to hear from you! Message me on Instagram or email tailsandtasselspod@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening—I'm paws-itively thrilled you're here! 🐾✨

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Amber Lyoness: How Passion Fuels Her Burlesque, Choreography & Costuming—Plus Her New Show, Purr06 Feb 202500:37:52

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this week’s Tails and Tassels, Gemma sits down with the powerhouse Amber Lyoness, the founder of Lyoness Dance Company and creator of the sexy feline-inspired burlesque show Purr. Amber shares her journey from dance to fashion school to discovering her love for burlesque and how she now channels her passion into choreography, costuming, and performance.

Amber talks about the inspiration behind her company, Lyoness NYC, and how she blends dance, burlesque, and creativity to empower women and celebrate their strength—both on and off the stage. You’ll also get the scoop on her new PurrĀ  show, a celebration of black cat energy.

šŸŽ§ Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, tips on creating a successful performance, and a peek into Amber’s own creative process.Ā 

šŸ“– Resources & Links:

Amber’s Company: Lyoness NYC
Purr Show Details: Stay tuned on Instagram for upcoming events!

🐾 Connect with Amber:

Instagram: @amberlyoness
Lyoness Dance Company: @lyoness_nyc

šŸ’Œ Connect with Us:

Follow us on Instagram: @tailsandtasselspod
Follow Catbaret on Instagram: @catbareshow
Email: TailsandTasselsPod@gmail.com

⭐ Subscribe & Review:
Follow Tails and Tassels on your favorite podcast app and don’t forget to leave us a review—it really helps us grow! šŸ’–

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

How Cats, Creativity, and Community Collide at the Catbaret30 Jan 202500:11:11

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

Hello, kitty cats! Welcome back to Tails and Tassels! I'm your host, Gemma Smith—animal advocate by day and host of the Catbaret, a cat-themed variety show in NYC by night! In this episode, we're diving into the story of the Catbaret, where cats, creativity, and community collide.

Discover how this one-of-a-kind NYC variety show brings together performers and cat lovers for a night of laughter, music, purrlesque, and connection. Whether you're a burlesque fan, a cat enthusiast, or just curious about how art and feline fun combine, this episode will leave you inspired and smiling!

Resources:

Links:

Get in Touch:
I’d love to hear from you! What do you love most about the Catbaret, or what questions do you have about the show? Connect with me on Instagram, email me at tailsandtasselspod@gmail.com, or leave a comment!

Thank you for listening—I’m paws-itively thrilled you're here!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Bitsy BrƻlƩe: How to Stay Inspired, Keep Pursuing Your Art, and Let Your Cat Be Your Muse23 Jan 202500:44:30

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this week’s Tails and Tassels, Gemma chats with the multi-talented Bitsy BrĆ»lĆ©e, an actor and burlesque artist known for her undeniable love for her very special cat, Screamy. ✨🐾 

Bitsy shares how she got started in the world of burlesque, her inspirations behind her art in theater and film, and the special role her cat plays in her life. From funny behind-the-scenes stories to heartfelt moments, this episode is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the deep bonds we share with our feline friends.

A heartfelt note: This episode was recorded before Screamy crossed the rainbow bridge on January 2nd. We’re honored to celebrate her memory through Bitsy’s beautiful stories. šŸŒˆšŸ’–

šŸ“– Resources & Links:

🐾 Connect with Bitsy:

šŸ’ŒĀ  Connect with Us:

⭐ Subscribe & Review: Follow Tails and Tassels on your favorite podcast app and it would mean the world to us if you left a review!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Stress Management Tips for Cat-Loving Performers16 Jan 202500:16:42

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this solo episode of Tails and Tassels, I share my top stress management tips for performers, from daily rituals and time management strategies to the grounding power of spending time with my cats. These simple but effective techniques help me avoid burnout and stay balanced in my busy life as a burlesque performer and podcast host.

✨ Links and Resources:

šŸŽ¤ Stay Connected:

šŸ’Œ Get in Touch:
What’s your favorite way to manage stress? I’d love to hear your tips! Connect with me on Instagram, send a voice memo to tailsandtasselspod@gmail.com, or leave a comment—I’ll be sharing listener feedback in future episodes!

🐾 Support the Show:
Enjoy the episode? Rate, review, and subscribe to help more kitty cats find Tails and Tassels!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Dan Trachtenberg: Tips for Creating Cat-Themed Content09 Jan 202500:36:29

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this special expert episode of Tails and Tassels, Gemma welcomes Dan Trachtenberg, producer and host of the Shelter Cats Podcast, which has surpassed an incredible 200,000 downloads in just two seasons! šŸŽ‰

As one of our expert guests, Dan dives into his journey from blogging about shelter cats to creating a successful podcast. He shares his experiences transitioning from a solo host to working with a co-host, the challenges he’s faced, and his top tips for creatives producing cat-themed content.

Dan also shares touching stories from his life as a proud cat dad and reflects on the mew-ments that inspire his work. This episode is perfect for anyone passionate about storytelling, podcasting, or making a difference for shelter cats.

šŸ“– Resources & Links:

🐾 Connect with Dan:

šŸ’Œ Connect with Us:

Support the Show:

⭐ Subscribe & Review: Follow Tails and Tassels on your favorite podcast app and let us know what you love!

šŸ’¬ Patreon Feedback: Help shape our Patreon rewards and content by filling out this form.

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Happy Mew Year! How to Set Intentions for a Creative 202502 Jan 202500:15:41

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this first mini-episode of 2025, I’m reflecting on 2024—what a year it’s been—and sharing my fresh focus and intentions for the year ahead. I also get real about some of the challenges and setbacks I’ve faced, how they’ve shaped me, and what I’ve learned as I step into 2025 with a renewed mindset.

You’ll hear about my word for the year, how I’m planning to make this my best year yet, and some fun ways for you to get involved in upcoming episodes!

✨ Links and Resources:

šŸŽ¤ Stay Connected:

šŸ’Œ Get in Touch:
What’s your word for 2025? How are you stepping into the new year? Connect with me on Instagram, email a voice memo to tailsandtasselspod@gmail.com, or leave a comment! I'll be sharing listener feedback in future episodes.

🐾 Support the Show:
Love what you hear? Rate, review, and subscribe to help others discover Tails and Tassels!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

Amanda B: Amplifying Voices Through Community, Creativity, and Cats26 Dec 202400:44:04

Don't Miss the Next Catbaret! šŸ±šŸŽ­
There’s always a new Catbaret show coming up—whether in person in NYC or virtually! Grab your tickets at CatbaretShow.com for a night of cat-themed comedy, music, and burlesque!

--

In this episode, Gemma chats with Amanda B., a musician, podcaster, and creative force behind 6 Degrees of Cats. They explore the significance of investing in artist communities, how embracing your true self can empower creators, and why misunderstood cats (and people) are at the heart of Amanda's work. Plus, she gives a sneak peek into her work and her passion for celebrating the quirks that make us unique. She also shares a bit about her three feline friends at home. A must-listen for artists, podcasters, and cat lovers alike!

Resources:

Connect with Amanda:Ā 

Get in Touch:

Support the Show:

  • Subscribe to Tails and Tassels on your favorite podcast platform.
  • Leave a review and let us know what you love about the show!

Help shape our Patreon community! We want to hear from you about the rewards and content you’d love to see. Complete the form here and let us know your thoughts!

Support the show

Logo by Logan Laveau

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