What happens when rhythm, science, and vulnerability collide inside one artist? We sit down with Ahmed Best to explore a creative life that refuses boxes: a South Bronx kid raised by drums and physics, a performer who treats movement as first language, and an educator who teaches students to design for feeling rather than stumble into it.

Ahmed opens up about being an “emotional athlete,” choosing vulnerability on cue, and why social media’s loudness can’t replace true listening. He walks us through his Dramatic Narrative Design framework at USC—start with the emotion you want the audience to feel, then build story choices to deliver that outcome with intention.  

We also talk frankly about Jar Jar Binks and the cost of pioneering performance capture. Ahmed helped shape tools and techniques still used across film and games, yet the backlash nearly ended the work he loved. His reflections aren’t bitter; they’re practical, generous, and deeply human. He explains how to endure critique without losing truth, why mastery is a series of new beginnings, and how returning to Star Wars came from love rather than nostalgia.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more curious listeners can find us.

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A loud Cleveland house. Nine kids. A basement full of drums and harmony guitars.  We sit down with Jerry Becker, Train’s multi-instrumentalist and music director to trace a winding creative path—from a rejected teenager who formed his own band to a music store employee who told a stranger in a Steelers hat that his team “sucked,” then sold him a saxophone and changed his life.

Jerry takes us inside the machine of a modern touring act: how set lists are shaped, how transitions breathe, and why almost everyone in the band plays drums.  We talk about the lost art of album narratives, the rise of high-quality home recording, and the urgency of finishing a song while the idea is still in the air.

The biggest curveball? A four-year plunge into Broadway. Jerry, Pat Monahan, and drummer Matt have written dozens of songs for a stage adaptation of Begin Again, discovering the thrill and terror of hearing other voices carry their melodies. It’s the hardest writing he’s done—and the most clarifying.  

If you care about the craft of live music, the realities of today’s music business, and the courage to say yes before you know how, this conversation will hit home. 

Follow along, share with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.

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** Episode Note: We did have some audio issues with this episode, but it was too good a conversation to keep on the shelf!

Tech visonary Kim Liberi, walks us through the mindset that carried him from early console graphics and London VFX labs to the painterly breakthroughs of What Dreams May Come, where live action became living brushstrokes using optical flow and fine-art sensibilities to his ground breaking work on the Matrix films, and his most recent incarnation as CTO of Epic Games.  

The conversation opens into simulated worlds and the convergence of film and games. Kim breaks down how procedural cities, photogrammetry, and Unreal Engine’s real-time rendering shift power back to creators—letting directors dial weather on set, game designers craft cinematic beats, and teams reuse systems without losing soul. 

If you’re curious about how math, art, and collaboration turn into wonder—on set and on screen—Kim's path is one that will resonate with you. 

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When our close friend, Jessie Creel first appeared on Everyone Is..., she was battling what she thought was pneumonia. That persistent cough eventually led to a shocking diagnosis: lung cancer, despite Jessie never having smoked a day in her life. 

In this deeply moving conversation, Jessie shares her journey from that initial realization—losing an ocean swim she should have won—to assembling a world-class medical team at City of Hope and Stanford. With remarkable clarity and even moments of humor, she explores how cancer treatment intertwines with mental health, family dynamics, and systemic healthcare challenges.

"Anyone who has lungs can get lung cancer," Jessie emphasizes, pushing back against the stigma that often accompanies the diagnosis. She reveals startling statistics—40% more women die of lung cancer than breast cancer—while questioning why mammograms are standard preventative care but lung CT scans aren't.

Join us for this conversation about advocacy, community support, and finding strength in vulnerability.  

Also please donate to https://wegotthis.org/ an organization that helps individuals with cancer.

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This episode is dedicated to Jen's father who passed away on February 8,2025. 

"Rage, rage against the dying of the light."- Dylan Thomas

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Jessica Manning-Brose takes us on a journey through her unique cultural upbringing and creative evolution. Growing up in Sweden with a Swedish mother and a musician father from Harlem, Jessica's family faced significant challenges when they moved to Minneapolis. The cultural differences in family support and financial hardships only strengthened their family bond and set the stage for Jessica's creative path.  

Jessica shares how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed her shift from live music to becoming a content creator, allowing her to embrace a love for fashion, design, and thrifting. Her aesthetic journey reflects a harmonious blend of vintage and contemporary styles, creating a timeless look that resonates both online and offline. Embracing authenticity, she highlights the empowerment found in building a genuine social media community.

In the realm of business ownership, Jessica candidly discusses the complexities of managing finances and insurance as an influencer while balancing personal and professional life. Emphasizing the power of slow living, she encourages listeners to savor life's small moments and pursue passions at their own pace.  

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What happens when a celebrated writer like Tom Bissell ventures into the world of video games, fiction, and journalism? Join us as Tom shares captivating stories from his childhood in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and how early encounters with arcade classics shaped his creative journey. With literary influences from his father's circle, including Jim Harrison and Philip Caputo, Tom embraced a life of writing without a fallback plan. His insights into the evolution of gaming and the creative process offer a fresh perspective on artistic identity and the pursuit of one's passion.

We also delve into the nuances of storytelling, highlighting how imagination and empathy drive the creative process. From the technicalities of screenwriting to the fearless exploration of emotions through art, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of creativity.  

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Dr. Joanne Jones, a neurologist from Wolverhampton, shares her journey into the field of neurology and medical research. At the heart of her story is a pivotal conversation with a teacher that ignited her passion for merging medicine with research, setting her on a path from the University of Bristol to the esteemed halls of Cambridge University.  

Dr. Jones discusses her experiences and the vital support of mentors. Her journey highlights the importance of diversity in academia and the transformative impact of encouragement and guidance. The podcast delves into the intricate world of autoimmune conditions, with a focus on the immune system's role in neurological disorders, offering a profound understanding of how scientific advancements can reshape treatment approaches.

From establishing a transition clinic for young MS patients in Cambridge to exploring the potential of AI in medicine, her insights reveal the dynamic nature of modern research and clinical care. As creativity and science intersect, the episode explores how problem-solving and decision-making are essential components of the scientific process.

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What if storytelling could be your greatest tool for cultural impact and personal transformation? Jessie Creel, a dynamic producer with a rich background ranging from policy work in Washington, D.C. to filmmaking in the West, joins us to discuss her journey. Drawing inspiration from iconic films and crucial work in education and criminal justice reform, Jessie reveals how storytelling has the power to bridge divides and inspire change.

Through personal anecdotes, Jessie candidly shares her philosophy of maintaining integrity in her projects, while navigating industry biases and embracing movements like Me Too that have redefined storytelling.

Jessie’s ventures, Joyful Participation Pictures and Old Mill Ventures, exemplify her commitment to heart-led projects that balance passion with fiscal responsibility. From her ambitious adaptation of Karl Deisseroth's "Projections" to the community-driven impact of initiatives like Find Your Anchor, Jesse’s stories underscore the profound ability of storytelling to forge meaningful connections and inspire positive change.

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Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of Judy Tocco, the President and CEO of Aspire Wealth Partners. Judy's story is one of transformation and adaptability, revealing how she pioneered a position from VP of Operations at a credit union to becoming a Certified Financial Planner and starting her own wealth management company. Her narrative is an inspiring testament to creative thinking and the power of seizing opportunities even when they come in unexpected forms.

Judy discusses her thoughts on the evolution of the financial industry and the landscape of investing today, including meme stocks and the rise of digital currencies. Judy's candid discussion also sheds light on the challenges women face in finance and the potential of women-led firms to excel. Don't miss this captivating episode that not only chronicles a career in finance but also offers invaluable lessons on resilience, leadership, and never being afraid to fail. 

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Tim Miller, the creative mind behind blockbuster hits like Deadpool, Terminator: Dark Fate, and the Netflix hit Love, Death & Robots, gives us an insider look into his incredible career. From his early days in Southern Maryland,  to his initial dreams of becoming a comic book artist, Tim’s path is both inspiring and filled with unexpected turns. Discover how his love for drawing and reading turned into a passion for filmmaking, visual effects, and storytelling.

What does it take to adapt beloved books into films while staying true to the essence of the original material? Tim shares his experiences and challenges in doing just that, as well as his journey from waiting tables to working in medical film animation, eventually leading to a groundbreaking career in 3D animation and visual effects. Hear about his pivotal move to Los Angeles, his tenure at Sony Imageworks, and the defining moments that gave him the confidence to start his own visual effects company.  

Tim dives deep into the collaborative nature of filmmaking. From valuable insights into mentorship and advice from industry titans like James Cameron and David Fincher to personal anecdotes revealing the importance of humility and collaboration, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for aspiring filmmakers and creatives alike.  

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Join us in this special mini-episode of "Everyone Is," with a story told through the eyes of kids age 6-16. This intro to Season 2, focuses on kid's answers to the questions "What does imagination mean to you?" and "What do you want to be when you grow up?"  We hope you find their answers not just amusing, but also insightful. From envisioning a snail driving a boat to aspiring careers in fashion design and forensic science, these kids remind us that creativity knows no bounds, and that imagination is a life skill we should never give up on.

Welcome to Season 2!

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What fuels the imagination of a visual effects legend? Join us as Dennis Muren opens up about his remarkable journey from an LA kid in love with the spectacle of "War of the Worlds" to a nine-time Academy Award winner. From the highs of working on Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind to the technical challenges of creating groundbreaking sequences, Dennis's stories provide a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of cinematic magic.

Ever wondered how the iconic asteroid sequence in Empire Strikes Back was created or what it took to bring dinosaurs to life in Jurassic Park? Dennis delves into the creative processes behind these memorable moments, revealing the trial-and-error approaches, the collaborative spirit, and the sheer perseverance required. He also touches on how different directors like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg influenced his work and the fascinating transition from practical effects to digital graphics that revolutionized the industry.

Join us in an insightful conversation with Dennis where imagination meets innovation and every pixel tells a story.

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Ever wondered how an unconventional path can lead to monumental success in the film industry? This episode features Scott Mosier, one of the icon filmmakers behind indie classics like Clerks, Mallrats, and Dogma. Scott shares his remarkable journey from a curious child fascinated by movies to becoming a key player in independent filmmaking. He reveals the transformative moments and creative decisions that shaped his career, including his long-term collaboration with Kevin Smith and his recent directorial role on the animated hit The Grinch.

Scott opens up about his early days in the industry, recounting the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from a dolly grip to a fully-fledged producer. Listen to Scott's reflections on the importance of supporting a filmmaker's vision and the creative nuances that come with managing larger projects.  

This conversation also highlights the value of self-directed learning and discusses the difference between traditional schooling and following one's passions, emphasizing the need for mental space to foster creativity.  

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 In this episode, we sit down with Tony Aghazarian, co-founder of Lighthouse Insight, who shares his unique journey from a diverse upbringing in Pinole, California, to an influential career in tech. Tony’s story is a testament to how a challenging childhood filled with diverse perspectives can ignite adaptability and a deep understanding of the world around you.  

Tony's professional journey is nothing short of exhilarating. From his early days at Sony, where he navigated the decline of CRT technology, to his pivotal role at Apple, where he contributed to the emergence of iconic products like the iMac and iPhone, Tony's career is marked by innovation and leadership.

Tony also reflects on his transition from a high-profile tech career to impactful geopolitical work, including humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.  His story is a never ending evolving journey of the eternal problem solver.

https://www.lighthouseinsight.com

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**Content Warning: This podcast contains discussions of genocide and violence and may not be appropriate for some listeners.

What happens when someone with a passion for languages and cultures grows up to become a diplomatic problem-solver? Meet Cheryl Casebeer, or Casey as her friends call her, a seasoned diplomat from the US State Department. This episode takes you through Casey's unique upbringing, where frequent relocations sparked her interest in understanding diverse cultures, setting the stage for her remarkable career.  

From the complexities of U.S.-Cuba relations to high-stress assignments in the Ivory Coast, Casey shares the intricate workings of American diplomacy. This episode also delves into the often-overlooked emotional toll of diplomatic service, discussing resilience and coping mechanisms essential for handling trauma.

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For this episode, we are thrilled to have Stefan Dechant, the Oscar-nominated production designer whose imagination and desire to tell stories has stretched from the Spielberg-tinged streets of his Ohio childhood to working with legends like Saul Bass, to Industrial Light & Magic, to design opportunities on a myriad of Robert Zemeckis films, and more! As we peel back the layers of Stefan's illustrious (see what we did there)  career, we uncover the influences of his youth and how a simple love for drawing evolved into designing some of cinema's most unforgettable worlds.

Stefan's story is a tale of taking chances and moving into uncomfortable spaces and roles to achieve your goals. Stefan also has no qualms about letting you know that imposter syndrome is real, and what you need to do to overcome it is jump into the creative and hope that it lifts you up and you surf on its waves!

 

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Eddie Baba's life journey has been a unique ride. His story unfolds from his early life experience as an Iranian refugee to his long-term path to becoming a law partner; Eddie offers up his life experience, which evolved based not on plans but on goals. Eddie's candid revelations about identity, cultural adaptation, and the power of embracing one's heritage and sexuality are extremely uplifting.  

As we traverse the landscape of Eddie's life, we uncover the rich tapestry of his unique academic pursuits that meld science, art history, the law, and the fascinating career transitions that follow. His story emphasizes the importance of creativity and adaptability in life's journeys. Eddie's pragmatic yet goal-oriented approach to his profession reveals the myriad ways success can manifest.  

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Embark on an expedition with Mike Cerre, a Notre Dame alum, and former Marine and his adventures on his path to journalism. Witness the paradox of a man who felt a duty to serve his country while wrestling with his own anti-war stance, a man whose roots in the Midwestern ethos and exposure to global cultures have forged his unique narrative voice. 

As Mike recounts his transition from the Marines to his career as a journalist, he brings us into his world of tenacity and ingenuity. From capturing footage on a mountain's peak to embracing the pulse of 1970s San Francisco, his journey is a powerful testament to following one's passions against all odds.  

Join us as we navigate the collaborative trenches of television news reporting with Mike, who shares stories ranging from high-stakes drug raids to enriching interactions with iconic journalists like Ted Koppel. We also unpack cultural misconceptions, highlighting the transformative power of journalism to foster understanding and challenge our preconceptions. As Mike reflects on his storied career and peers into journalism’s future, his insights are a beacon for aspiring storytellers navigating the evolving media landscape. This episode isn’t just about where journalism has been; it's about where it's going, and how each of us can contribute to its journey.

Link to Mike's website
https://www.globetv.com 

Clips from Mike's site:
1. ABC Nightline Iraq Invasion 2003
2. ABC News- Care  Packages for Syrian Refugees

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Ever found yourself dreaming of a life filled with music? The O'Connor Brothers, Matt and Sean, join us to share their story, from the  Colorado mountains to the heartbeat of the music scene. They open up about their classical trained musical roots, their leap into original compositions, and the creativity that fuels their artistic journey. It's not just about strumming chords and writing lyrics; it's a testament to the power of creative thinking and how it shapes the melodies of life, whether you're a musician, an artist, or simply someone who appreciates rhythm.

We hope that listening to their story inspires you to pursue your own musical journey and you can learn to play at least five instruments... if not six.
 

O'Connor Brothers Band Live on Songs from the Pond: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oFMzAQwpGc

Tour Schedule: https://oconnorbrothersband.com/

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We are announcing our new podcast Everyone is...

Host Jennifer Coronado explores the thought processes and creative approaches of successful careerists. The discussion covers careers across the spectrum, from Academy Award-winning Visual Effects Supervisors to Bio-Patent Attorneys to Journalists—the list goes on!

Creative thinking has no limits on our podcast. 

Join us every other Thursday, beginning Thursday, April 11th, 2024.

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