Do you work in the entertainment industry and dream of starting your own business but have no idea where to start? Whether you’re just starting to think about a side hustle or ready to dive in and switch things up completely, The Hollywood Second Act Club podcast is your launchpad for creating a life and business that is authentically you!
Join Alexis Walker, industry veteran, and professional coach, as she interviews showbiz insiders who have created inspiring lives and businesses on their terms. You’ll also hear insights and strategies from experts on branding, marketing, mindset, and all things entrepreneurship- so when you are ready, you’ll be fully empowered to launch and grow your own Hollywood Second Act.
We'd love to hear from you if you have a suggestion for a future guest consideration or would like to be the show yourself! Email hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Follow on Instagram @hollywoodsecondactclub www.hollywoodsecondactclub.com
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Ep #37 What To Do When Life Throws Us Curveballs - with Film Industry Caterer + Founder of Jane Foodie, Jane Carroll
Friday, November 15, 2024 • Duration 38:16
My guest today is the incredibly lovely and inspiring Jane Carroll, founder of Jane Foodie. Growing up, Jane defied traditional roles for women, paving her own path and embracing the unconventional. She shares her journey from a single mom in the Bronx to a pioneer in the floral event design and movie catering industry. Despite facing numerous personal and professional setbacks, Jane shares how she reset and adapted to life's curveballs.
She first gained recognition with her “Boxed-in Blooms,” attracting the attention of Oprah Winfrey. After navigating the 2008 financial crisis that shuttered her design studio, Jane pivoted towards health and sustainability. In 2015, she launched Jane Bakes, specializing in all-natural cookies. Her latest venture, Jane Foodie, was inspired by her work in the film industry and focuses on nutritious, flash-frozen meals ( including her award-winning Guinness Beef Stew, recognized at the 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show)
When she’s not leading her team, Jane enjoys time with her grandchildren, exploring NYC, and indulging her passions for design and entertaining.
This episode is a masterclass in resilience, pivoting careers, and turning obstacles into opportunities!
Time Stamps:
02:43 Guest Introduction: Jane Carroll's Inspiring Journey
03:32 Jane Carroll's Early Career and Challenges
04:19 Pivoting During the Pandemic
06:24 Launching Jane Foodie: From Concept to Success
08:27 Overcoming Personal and Professional Obstacles
11:21 The O List
16:36 Building a New Business Post-2008 Recession
17:15 Creating a National Brand
18:37 Jane's Philosophy: Embrace Fear and Take Risks
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherev
Ep #36 The Tougher the Day, The Kinder You Have to Be To Yourself- w/ Author, Speaker, Comedian, and Mental Health Advocate Kristina Kuzmic
Friday, November 8, 2024 • Duration 35:22
My guest today is author, speaker, comedian, and mental health advocate Kristina Kuzmic. Kristina is a cheerleader for her fellow humans. It’s not something she ever anticipated doing, but after immigrating to America from Croatia during the war in her homeland and later facing more challenges (divorce, single parenting, poverty, mental health challenges), Kristina’s goal became clear: to be for others what she needed when she was at her lowest.
Now, with well over one billion video views, Kristina is providing her audience with encouragement, hope and humor in a role she never expected to fill.
In 2011, Oprah crowned Kristina the winner of Mark Burnett’s reality TV competition “Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star”. Since working with Oprah, Kristina has branched out on her own, creating videos about juggling all of life’s challenges, and encouraging her audience to prioritize their mental health. She has quickly become a viral sensation with 2.9 million Facebook followers and over 800,000 Instagram followers.
Kristina is a sought-after international keynote speaker, delivering impactful talks at conferences on mental health, women's issues, parenting, business, and even for the FBI. She has a unique ability to connect with diverse audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Kristina has also completed two comedy tours, performing in over 60 cities across US and Canada. Her first book, Hold On But Don’t Hold Still, was released through Penguin Random House in February 2020, and has since been translated to eight languages. Kristina’s second book, I Can Fix This! (And Other Lies I’ve Told Myself while Parenting My Struggling Child), was released in May 2024, and was featured on Good Morning America, The New York Times and People magazine, among other media outlets.
Time Stamps:
00:00 A Night to Remember
00:37 Welcome to the Hollywood Second Act Club
01:22 Meet Christina: A Story of Resilience
01:37 The Birth of Wednesday Night Dinners
10:16 From Dinners to Dreams
Ep #35 You're Invited: Yoga Pop-Up Event with Neon Soul Yoga on Nov 16th!!
Sunday, November 3, 2024 • Duration 07:08
Friend! If you're anything like me, it's been much more Hustle than Flow lately. It's time to switch that up. The Hollywood Second Act Club is teaming up with Neon Soul Yoga on Sat. Nov 16th for a Special Yoga Pop-Up Event inviting you to press pause, realign, and take a moment to reflect on what might be next.
For many of us, it's been a Big year with many changes and transitions. This special session, guided by Akilah Chopfield, founder of Neon Soul Yoga, is all about reconnecting with ourselves (and our amazing community!) as we embrace whatever season we're in. Come as you are—there's no need to be a yogi :) We'd love to see your sweet face!
Don't miss out on this intimate gathering designed for entertainment professionals like you who want to bring a little more Zen into their Second Act. Spaces are limited, so Sign up below to reserve your mat today.
Details Date: Nov 16th 2024 Time: 10:30 am- 12 noon Location: Beverly Hills- address will be provided at check out Investment: $25
The special offering will include a yoga class with breathwork, meditation, and prompted journaling time.
Please bring your mat, and something to write with. If you need these provided for you, please let Akilah know in advance so we can prepare!
And stay tuned for the first in The Hollywood Second Act Club dinner series on December 14th! Visit HollywoodSecondActClub.com to sign up for updates and get on the list.
Connect with Akilah :
Website to reserve your spot- www.neosoulyoga.tv
1. Click on Services 2. Select Pop Ups 3. Choose 11/16 Date
Sign up for our Newsletter. Subscribe here. website- www.hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Ep #34 Second Act Zen- with Former Production Manager of Health and Safety + Writer + Yoga Instructor, Akilah Chopfield
Friday, November 1, 2024 • Duration 32:41
My guest today is Akilah Chopfield. Akilah is a former Production Manager of Health and Safety for Disney Corporate, Writer, and Yoga instructor. Akilah shares her journey of self-discovery and healing after a high-pressure role managing COVID protocols led to severe stress and health issues. Following massive industry-wide layoffs and historic dual strikes, she took the opportunity to pursue becoming a certified yoga instructor and reconnect with her creative life.
She shares overcoming and grieving a loss of identity, embracing her inherent role as a healer, and merging her production skills with her new venture, Neon Soul Yoga. Akilah is passionate about helping others heal and enhance their lives through yoga and mindfulness practices. You'll hear about her amazing current projects- including teaching yoga to kids, Zen Sets ( bringing yoga to film environments) and hosting an upcoming retreat for creatives.
We can't wait for our upcoming special pop-up yoga collaboration with Neon Soul Yoga on Saturday, November 16th! Subscribe today to catch this weekend's bonus episode filled with all the details- and reserve your mat.
Tune in to hear Akilah's inspiring story and get ready to bring some Second Act Zen into your life!
Time Stamps:
00:00 Identity: Losing Myself in My Job
00:53 Introducing the Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast
01:44 Kiela's Journey in the Entertainment Industry
02:46 The Stress and Health Toll of Production Work
04:38 A Life-Changing Diagnosis and Its Impact
08:54 The Decision to Pivot: Embracing Writing and Yoga
11:27 Yoga Teacher Training in Costa Rica
14:27 Returning to LA: Integrating New Insights
18:19 Starting Neon Soul Yoga: Insights and Triumphs
26:28 Teaching Yoga to Kids and Corporate Clients
29:47 Conclusion and Future Plans
Ep #33 LinkedIn For Your Hollywood Pivot - with LinkedIn Trainer + Relationship Marketing Specialist, Janice Porter
Thursday, October 24, 2024 • Duration 43:12
In this Business Builder episode, we deep dive into the transformative potential of LinkedIn—an often-overlooked gem for entertainment industry professionals! If you've spent more time updating your IMDb profile than your LinkedIn page, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how it can be a powerful game-changing platform for freelancers and creatives looking to forge new paths.
My delightful guest, Janice Porter, is a LinkedIn Trainer and Relationship Marketing Specialist. She shares invaluable insights in this mini masterclass, where you’ll learn how to create a magnetic LinkedIn profile, harness the platform's networking capabilities, and engage potential clients with creative hooks that share your business's unique value and pique their curiosity! She provides practical strategies to enhance your credibility, establish authority, and lean into relationship marketing to grow your network.
For Janice, it's all about relationships! In this episode, we discuss the importance of seeking to give more than you get, the art of maintaining connections, and the essential role of genuine curiosity in successful networking. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to network like a pro and unlock new possibilities for your Second Act. Tune in and get ready to elevate your LinkedIn game and connect with some wonderful people!
Ep #32 There is Life Outside of Hollywood- with Makeup Artist + Mature Beauty Educator, Michelle Spieler
Friday, October 18, 2024 • Duration 34:38
Today's episode is a fun one! It will likely spark some wanderlust and encourage you to think outside the box—two of my favorite things:) We'll travel from Hollywood to Nashville and explore the transition from life on set to Tik Tok success.
I'm thrilled to introduce you to my guest, Michelle Spieler. Michelle is a Makeup Artist, Course Creator, and Mature Beauty Educator with 30 years of professional experience. She worked on shows like New Girl, Sons of Anarchy, and Last Comic Standing before the pandemic prompted a turning point in her career. She now shares her Hollywood expertise by teaching makeup techniques tailored for women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond- through her Mature Beauty Masterclass and online community.
In our conversation, Michelle opens up about the lessons she’s learned as an influencer, her decision to diversify her career instead of putting all her eggs in one basket, and the significance of authenticity in building a sustainable online business. Tune in to hear about a whole wide world of opportunities outside of Hollywood!
Connect with Michelle:
Instagram - @michellespieler.com Tik Tok - @maturemakeupmasterclass Website - www.michellespieler.com
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
Ep #31 You Are More Than Your IMDB Page- with Set Decorator+ Interior Designer + Podcast Host, Beth Kushnick
Thursday, October 10, 2024 • Duration 41:36
Friends! I’m thrilled to welcome my new pal and native New Yorker, Beth Kushnick, to the show. Beth is a Set Decorator and Interior Designer with over 35 years of experience in the industry. She is known for her work on "The Good Wife," "The Good Fight," and films like "Rare Objects" and "Insidious 5”. Kushnick is a Hall of Fame Inductee of The Set Decorators Society of America, a Christie’s Arbiter of Style, and a voting member of both the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
She's also a trailblazer! Beth was the first in her field to launch a home décor line, blog, and internationally acclaimed podcast, "Decorating the Set: From Hollywood to Your Home, " where she offers listeners approachable yet sophisticated tips to create perfect spaces for their home, office, or social media backdrop.
In our conversation, Beth shares her experience and insights into the industry's current climate and ways you can expand your offerings to the “civilian world” to create diversified opportunities for yourself!
In this episode, we get into:
Why we really are "more than our IMDB page"- and how to showcase that on your website and Linkedin
The unexpected joys of podcasting
How to give yourself a "win" each day
Why creating a home office for yourself can make a big difference in your job search, especially now!
Connect with Beth:
Instagram - @bethkushnick Podcast - Decorating the Set: From Hollywood to Your Home Website - www.bethkushnick.com
Join the Club :
Follow on instagram - @hollywoodsecondactclubSign up for our Newsletter. Subscribe . Connect w/ Alexis @ lex@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Ep #30 When Its Time To Choose You- with former Camera Assistant + Underwater Portrait Photographer, Jennifer Tanksley-Coss
Friday, October 4, 2024 • Duration 30:58
This week's episode with Under Water Portrait Photographer Jennifer Tanksley-Coss is nothing short of magic! Get ready to discover a whole new world and perspective with this extraordinary woman as your guide.
Jennifer grew up eating, drinking, and breathing film in an industry family in Germany. She began working as a high-speed camera technician right after high school on films and commercials across Europe- Eventually following the siren call of adventure to Los Angeles, where she worked as a local 600 Camera Assistant for 15 years. During that time, she worked alongside incredibly talented directors of photography and directors, bringing others' creative visions to life. After taking a break from her career to raise her children, Jennifer realized she couldn't return to her previous life.
This realization became one of the factors of her deep Sea Change -and set off an extraordinary journey of rediscovering her happiness.
At 43, she finally found a way to express her vision creatively when she shifted her focus to her love of photography. And just like that, she had a new career—one that she created by herself!
She now invites clients to her underwater portrait studio, where they experience seeing themselves in a totally new light and as works of Art, just as she sees them! Tune in to hear about Jennifer's unique artistic process and ways you can participate in her book project, 'The Art of Her'.
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful
Ep #29 For When You Feel Like Calling It Quits- with Makeup Artist and Career Pivot Coach, Alexis Walker
Sunday, September 29, 2024 • Duration 12:32
Whether you're exhausted from trying to get a new side hustle off the ground, overwhelmed, or simply done with figuring it out alone- hang in there friend, today's shorty episode is for you! I'll let you in on a little secret...this episode was supposed to come out three days ago, but life had other plans. So I pivoted!
Today we get Meta about what it really takes to switch things up, the speed bumps along the way telling us maybe we *should* quit, and some things you can to do to help yourself get through those rocky bits and come back fresh another day.
The journey of starting something new can make us want to quit, bury our heads under the covers, or have a laugh/cry attack in a parked car, like me ! (Anyone else?;)
I'll share the four things that have helped me navigate the tough times of life's transitions without throwing out the baby with the bathwater and calling it quits for good!
And as a Bonus! Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Hollywood Second Act Club Pop-up Dinner Series- and no, contrary to what my mom believes, it's not a "potluck", so you can leave the ambrosia at home.
Tune in for your special Sunday reminder to Just Keep Going !
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Internal Barriers
00:21 Welcome to the Hollywood Second Act Club
01:06 Behind the Scenes: Real-Life Struggles
01:54 Upcoming Events: Clarifying the Dinner Series
Ep #28 What I Learned From Talking Animal Movies- with Film Development Executive Turned Author + Advocate, Kelley Coleman
Friday, September 20, 2024 • Duration 37:17
If you've ever found yourself making a career pivot on a dime, despite having a good thing going- this episode is for you!
My guest is Film Development Executive turned Author and Advocate for parents , caregivers, and individuals with disabilities, Kelley Coleman. Her writing is an extension of her Before Times career developing talking animal movies, and also a few fun disaster movies!
Kelley's book Everything No one Told Your About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports ( Hachette , 2024) is a singular guide to accessing the supports disabled children need to thrive. And it’s weirdly not boring, she swears! ( her words, not mine;)
Her advocacy draws upon over a decade of firsthand experience, including advocating for her own kiddo, who has multiple disabilities.
During our conversation, Kelley talks about the lessons she's embraced, what it feels like a decade later, and how she's lighting the way for others. Get ready to be inspired and see your own pivot in a new light!
Connect with Kelley:
Instagram - @hellokelleycoleman
Order Everything No One Tells You About Parenting A Disabled Child on Kelley's Website - www.kelleycoleman.com
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
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Discover shows related to The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherev
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow n
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn for Second Act Careers
00:22 Welcome to the Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast
01:12 The Importance of LinkedIn for Business Owners
01:57 Meet Janice Porter: LinkedIn Expert and Relationship Marketing Specialist
03:22 Janice's Journey: From Teacher to LinkedIn Strategist
06:18 Understanding Different Social Media Platforms
08:13 Why LinkedIn is Essential for Business
12:20 Creating a Magnetic LinkedIn Profile: The Four H's
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
Episode Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey
00:48 Welcome to the Hollywood Second Act Club
01:37 Meet Jennifer Tanksley Koss
04:36 Jennifer's Transition to Underwater Photography
Be added to the Pop-up Dinner Series mailing list: lex@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Coaching Services:
If you are interested in coaching and working together, schedule a time for a virtual coffee and let’s talk! I'd love to hear about your goals and see if I can be helpful hello@hollywoodsecondactclub.com
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
"I heart Alexis and The Hollywood Second Act Club Podcast" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more entertainment industry professionals–just like you–in crafting their own Fabulous Second Acts. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast wherever you get your fix . I’ll be adding lots of goodies to the feed–and if you’re not following–there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
