The Art of Kindness: Pop Culture & Positivity with Robert Peterpaul
Published by Robert Peterpaul
Arts
TV & Film
Performing Arts
A positively star-studded podcast that converses with celebrity guests from all areas of the entertainment industry (Film, TV, Broadway etc.) who use their platform to build a kinder world. Join The AOK as we sprinkle unhinged positivity around like confetti and uncover the best ways to activate kindness. Part of the Broadway Podcast Network.
What if the secret to feeling more creative, grounded, and connected was simply slowing down? Textile artist, teacher, and community-builder Elizabeth Duke unlocks this art alongside Robert Peterpaul in a heartfelt conversation centered on mindfulness, handmade acts of kindness, and the surprising power of hand stitching. This positive podcast episode: how a small act of kindness during the pandemic blossomed into a thriving creative community why handmade gifts are more meaningful for both the giver and receiver how we can avoid burnout in a go-go-go world how simple practices like journaling, collaging, and making with our hands can help us reconnect with ourselves and others, plus much more Whether you're an artist, a maker, or someone craving a little more calm, this episode is a beautiful reminder to take life one stitch at a time. ELIZABETH DUKE is a textile artist, teacher, and creative community-builder whose hand stitching workshops have inspired makers around the world. Through sewing, mindfulness, and creativity, she helps others slow down, connect, and cultivate a joyful practice of self-expression. Follow Elizabeth: www.edukedesigns.com IG: @Sewist44 Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Lost Boys Tony Award-Winning Lighting Designer Jen Schriever joins Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness for an inspiring conversation on how you can really light up Broadway with kindness. Fresh off her Tony win and onto Iceboy! at the Goodman Theatre, Jen shares three core prinicples to kindness and much more. This positive podcast explores: How the creative process behind The Lost Boys thrived on trust, openness, and collaboration. What it was like co-designing the show with director Michael Arden and building one of Broadway’s most talked-about new musicals. Why the best ideas often come when you stop needing to be right and start listening. How Jen balances Broadway and motherhood, and why support at home matters just as much as support in the rehearsal room. The most meaningful act of kindness she experienced during awards season and much more. Whether you’re a Broadway fan, a creative leader, or simply looking for more kindness in everyday life, this episode is a reminder that curiosity, compassion, and a little light can change everything. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When Drew Lachey (98 Degrees) and Lea Lachey (Choreographer) asked their students to anonymously write down the ways they didn't feel seen, they had no idea it would change the course of their lives. Those handwritten stories became the foundation for Label•less, the moving new Off-Broadway theatrical experience encouraging audiences to look beyond labels and reconnect through empathy. In this special The Art of Kindness conversation, Drew and Lea join Robert Peterpaul to discuss how kindness shapes every aspect of their work—from directing and teaching to parenting and creating safe spaces where artists can thrive. This podcast podcast episode covers: How their new show Label•less was born out of classroom Redefining labels from educator to parent to pop star and what they really mean Building rehearsal rooms with love instead of fear How kind leaders are better leaders Why they can't shake an interaction with one random security guard, plus more. Label•less is a groundbreaking new 90-minute musical experience that gets real about the challenges we all face in today’s world. Created by Drew Lachey (98 Degrees & “Dancing With the Stars”) and choreographer Lea Lachey, Label•less features a wildly talented cast of young adults sharing real-life experiences and taking audiences on an emotional journey packed with soaring vocals and electric dancing. With an original score spanning rock, pop, and R&B, plus hit songs like “Born This Way” and “Rise Up,” Label•less is on a mission to break down barriers, remind us of our shared humanity, and envision life beyond labels. Learn more: labellessmusical.com DREW LACHEY (Creator, Co-Director, Writer, Producer), a proud Cincinnatian, is best known for his multiplatinum pop group 98 Degrees, selling more than 10 million records worldwide and achieving eight top 40 singles in the United States. He also appeared on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and was crowned Season 2 Champion. A Broadway veteran, he starred as Mark Cohen in Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize–winning musical Rent and as King Arthur’s right-hand man, Patsy, in Mike Nichols’ Tony Award–winning production of Monty Python’s Spamalot. Additional onstage work includes Corny Collins in Hairspray, Charlie in Kinky Boots, and Zach in A Chorus Line. Drew also hosted ABC’s “Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann,” HGTV’s “$250,000 Dollar Challenge,” Design Network’s “Date My House,” “America Sings,” “The Price Is Right Live,” “Let’s Make a Deal Live,” and the Miss USA Pageant. He currently lives in Cincinnati, where he, along with his wife, Lea, created and run Lachey Arts, a performing arts nonprofit. LEA LACHEY (Creator, Co-Director, Choreographer, Producer) a native of Cincinnati, has worked professionally in many different areas of the entertainment industry. Whether creating for stage or film, theater or concerts, she believes in the power of storytelling. Over the years, she has worked with organizations and artists including the Radio City Rockettes, 98 Degrees, Missy Elliott, Walt Disney, the NBA, and the NFL. Her work has been seen on “Good Morning America,” the “Today” show, Miss America, Miss Teen USA, MTV, and VH1. Over the last several years, she has had the honor of working as choreographer and dance consultant on multiple films, including Carol, starring Academy Award–winning actress Cate Blanchett and Kyle Chandler; Miles Ahead, starring Golden Globe Award–winning actor Don Cheadle and Emayatzy Corinealdi; and “A Christmas Melody,” directed by and starring Grammy Award winner Mariah Carey and starring Lacey Chabert. Lea is currently the Co-Artistic Director of Lachey Arts, a performing arts nonprofit based in Cincinnati. Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What happens when the career you've dedicated your life to no longer feels sustainable? Carey Renee Sharpe details how she went from burnout to Broadway on The Art of Kindness podcast. The creator and star of the Off-Broadway musical Blood Love: A Vampire Opera joins Robert Peterpaul for a moving conversation on how reinvention can help you find your way back to yourself. Before writing musicals, Carey spent years as a pediatric ICU nurse and nurse practitioner caring for critically ill children. When the emotional weight of the work became too much to carry, she made the difficult decision to leave the profession that had defined her for years. What followed was unexpected: restoring a historic theater, writing music during the pandemic, and ultimately creating Blood Love, an original Off-Broadway musical rooted in love, friendship, and the search for light. In this podcast podcast episode, you'll hear: Why Carey left a successful career in pediatric critical care How she pivoted from the ICU to Off-Broadway, creating Blood Love from deeply personal experiences Building a rehearsal room centered on love instead of competition Balancing motherhood, leadership, and creative ambition Why "art is the best form of rebellion" in difficult times, plus more. Together, Robert and Carey discuss the courage to change directions, leading creative teams with vulnerability, motherhood, sustainable theater culture, and why making art can be one of the most powerful acts of hope in a complicated world. Because sometimes kindness means caring for others. And sometimes it means finally caring for yourself. CAREY RENEE SHARPE made her Off-Broadway debut as Valerie in her own original production BLOOD/LOVE, a lifelong dream realized. Carey spent her childhood steeped in music, with formal violin training beginning at age three, but chose to pursue a career as a critical care pediatric nurse practitioner inspired by her personal history of congenital heart disease. In 2018 she stepped away from healthcare and restored a historic theater in her hometown, reigniting her love of music. She has spent the past 6 years writing, developing & performing in BLOOD/LOVE. Follow Carey: @careyreneemusic Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fashion legend Isaac Mizrahi has spent decades making the world brighter- literally. As a colorful designer, performer, host, author, and cultural icon, the creative has always favored playfulness. But before the runways, Broadway stages, and standing ovations, he was a kid who often felt like an outsider. This week on The Art of Kindness, Isaac joins Robert Peterpaul for a funny, moving, and surprisingly vulnerable conversation about bullying, belonging, creativity, therapy, Broadway legends, and the people whose kindness changed his life. Plus: Broadway, fashion, Patti LuPone, New York City, compliments, eyebrows, and why nobody is paying nearly as much attention to your appearance as you think they are. This positive podcast covers: Why kindness starts with noticing people who feel unseen The teacher who changed Isaac's life forever Lessons from Broadway legends like Gwen Verdon and Liza Minnelli Why therapy matters and what he's learned from it Broadway backstage culture and kindness The truth about fashion rules, self-expression, and authenticity, plus more ISAAC MIZRAHI has spent more than 35 years at the intersection of entertainment, media, and fashion, earning acclaim as a performer, host, writer, designer, producer, and cultural commentator. Performing with his acclaimed jazz band, Isaac brings his signature blend of music, storytelling, and comedy to concert stages across the country. His annual multi-week residency at New York City's legendary Café Carlyle consistently sells out, and in 2022 he made his Broadway debut as Amos Hart in Chicago. The New York Times hailed him as “a founding father of a genre that fuses performance art, music and stand-up comedy.” In 2025, the cult-classic documentary Unzipped—which Mizrahi co-created and stars in—celebrated its 30th anniversary with a screening at the Sundance Film Festival. He hosted the Emmy Award-winning The Isaac Mizrahi Show for seven seasons, served as a judge on all seven seasons of Project Runway All Stars, and continues to appear across television, film, and digital media. Beyond the stage and screen, Mizrahi has directed productions for the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, designed costumes for the Metropolitan Opera, and annually directs and narrates Peter and the Wolf, a production he originally created for New York City's Guggenheim Museum. A celebrated force in fashion, Mizrahi currently serves as Creative Director at Large for Target. Through his company, IM Entertainment, he develops original projects for television, theater, publishing, and live entertainment. He is also the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir I.M. For more information, visit HelloIsaac.com. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Isaac: @IMISAACMIZRAHI Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Additional music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: MZU7IMLYX3T5WFFI We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Netflix's Sweet Magnolias star Joanna Garcia Swisher believes kindness starts with showing up. The beloved actor, producer, director and entrepreneur returns to The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss the return of Sweet Magnolias, the power of community, and why the relationships we nurture matter more than any career milestone. Jo opens up about directing some of the series' most emotional episodes yet, the life-changing friendships she's built through decades in Hollywood, and how a simple act of being present can help people feel seen. In this positive podcast, you'll hear: The surprising difference between talent and longevity Her favorite lesson from directing Sweet Magnolias How friendship becomes more meaningful with age The healing power of community The self-care habit she swears by during long days Why "showing up" is her ultimate kindness philosophy Plus, Jo shares stories from filming Sweet Magnolias Season 5 in New York City, building her lifestyle brand Rolling Clover, and the unexpected moments that reminded her to stay grateful. JOANNA GARCIA SWISHER is a multi-hyphenate dynamo – an actress, producer and entrepreneur. You know her as the lead in the Netflix global success SWEET MAGNOLIAS. While she’s not on-camera, JoAnna is flexing as a creative powerhouse as the Founder of the popular lifestyle platform and production company ROLLING CLOVER where she interacts with her 1.1 million loyal followers on new recipes, book suggestions, decor, and entertainment. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Jo: @jogarciaswisher Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Additional music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: MZU7IMLYX3T5WFFI We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Susan Grau's story begins with a life-changing act of unkindness. When Susan was nearly five years old, she was locked inside a freezer by older children, leading to a near-death experience that she says transformed her understanding of life, love, and human connection. Today, Susan is an acclaimed medium, soul healer, grief expert, speaker, and author of Infinite Life, Infinite Lessons. In this healing conversation, Susan joins host Robert Peterpaul to share how one of the most traumatic moments of her childhood became the catalyst for a lifetime of helping others heal. Together, they explore the relationship between kindness, intuition, fear, self-worth, and presence... and why the smallest acts of compassion can have a ripple effect far beyond what we realize. Plus, Robert surprises Susan with special guest: Casting Director Alexa Zappia of Rocks of Unity. Whether you're curious about near-death experiences, looking to deepen your intuition, or simply seeking a reminder of the power of kindness, this conversation offers plenty of insight, hope, and heart. In positive podcast episode, you'll learn: • What Susan's near-death experience taught her about kindness and purpose• How to tell the difference between fear and intuition• Why being present is the key to unlocking your inner wisdom• The surprising connection between self-talk and self-kindness• How to release attachment to outcomes and focus on the "footwork"• Why silence can be one of the greatest gifts for personal growth• The small daily acts that can make someone feel seen, loved, and valued SUSAN GRAU is a Healer, Renowned Body, Mind and Spirit Intuitive, Inspirational Speaker, and Hay House Bestselling Author. Susan’s journey began following a profound near-death experience at just four and a half years old. This pivotal moment in her life awakened her unique healing abilities, allowing her to connect with spirits from the other side. Follow Susan: www.susangrau.com Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony nominated Director-Choreographer Tim Jackson says kindness is the secret ingredient behind Broadway's Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). The acclaimed creative joins host Robert Peterpaul ahead of the 2026 Tony Awards to discuss the act of kindness that changed his career, why he believes "if you've got lovely people, you'll make lovely work," and how he built one of Broadway's most joyful new companies. This positive podcast covers: • The act of kindness that led Tim to direct Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) • Why kindness is essential to making great theatre • How Tim helps actors get out of their heads and into the story • The surprising inspiration behind the musical's smart suitcase set • The power of connecting with strangers in an increasingly disconnected world • Working with actors like Christiani Pitts and Sam Tutty, plus more! TIM JACKSON is a Tony Award-nominated director and dramaturg. His Broadway production of Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) earned eight Tony Award nominations and has become one of the season's most beloved new musicals. His additional credits include Merrily We Roll Along in the West End and the upcoming UK premiere of Something Rotten!. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Tim: @timjcreative Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony-Winner Michael Arden (Broadway's The Lost Boys): Time to Kill ('Em with Kindness)
The Lost Boys Broadway director Michael Arden joins Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness podcast to touchdown on creating thrilling heart-led theatrical spectacles. The Tony Award-winning theater-maker (Maybe Happy Ending) breaks down his innovative creative process through the lens of kindness. This positive podcast episode covers: How directing with kindness on The Lost Boys transformed the process Why listening to audiences when developing new work is vital The formula for balancing spectacle with emotional truth Broadway burnout and staying inspired, plus much more Michael Arden is a distinguished, two-time Tony Award winning director, honored for Best Direction of a Musical for Maybe Happy Ending. In 2023, he won the Tony Award for the acclaimed revival of Parade, following previous nominations for Once On This Island and Spring Awakening. He is the co-founder of At Rise Creative and has directed a wide range of works, including the 2024 Met Gala and Ben Platt’s concert residencies. Beyond his directing credits, Michael is an accomplished performer who has appeared on Broadway in Big River and King Lear, as well as in television and film projects like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Source Code. Shoutout to (spoiler) Ali Louis Bourzgui for taking part in our surprise compliment game. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Michael: @michaelarden Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Elizabeth Gillies (Dynasty) is here to celebrate 200 episodes of The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul podcast! Welcome to AOK 200, friends. To celebrate this milestone, actress, singer, Broadway star, and Ginger Ale's #1 fan Liz Gillies joins Robert in the Welcome to Times Square studio for a wildly fun and heartfelt conversation. From acts of kindness on the set of Dynasty and backstage at Little Shop of Horrors on Broadway to what we can learn from older generations, Liz reminds us why honesty may be the kindest act of all. The two Jersey kids dive deep into kind waters, covering everything from child acting, Broadway mishaps, and comfort TV shows all the way to witchy intuition, social media chaos, backstage hijinks, and the emotional support powers of - you guessed it - Canada Dry ginger ale. This positive podcast episode features: The life-changing sacrifices Liz's parents made for her as child actor Liz's future Broadway dream roles, including Winifred in Hocus Pocus the musical and an immersive Dynasty musical? Special surprises from her star friends Seth MacFarlane and Elaine Hendrix Plus: ADHD tangents, disco naps, miniatures, Real Housewives, Love on the Spectrum, and one very ambitious immersive Dynasty pitch. This episode is positively unhinged in the best way — a reminder that kindness is simply showing up. A big shoutout to friends of the AOK who made this episode possible, namely: Kindness is Free empowers the next generation of youth by instilling the values of respect, equality and compassion for others. Powered by Welcome to Times Square, the billboard experience that lets YOU be a star for a day. Special shoutout to our favorite Schmackary's Cookies and longtime listener Jen of Jen's Pretty Pegs, who helped us surprise Liz with a beautiful kind act. For a hand-painted and whimsical keepsake like Liz's check out Jen's art at: www.jensprettypegs.com. ELIZABETH GILLIES is an actress, singer and director known for her roles as ‘Fallon Carrington’ in the popular Netflix series, Dynasty and ‘Jade West’ in the generation defining Nickelodeon series, Victorious. Gillies returned to her Broadway roots last year, starring in the acclaimed Off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors as “Audrey”. A few of her TV credits include The Hunting Party, The Orville, White Collar, Family Guy and the FX series, Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll where she starred opposite Denis Leary for two seasons. On the film side, Gillies can be seen in Vacation, Arizona, Animal, Catwoman: Hunted and Spread, which she also produced. In addition to her acting career, Gillies is a singer who performs regularly to sold out audiences across the country. She has two records out with her longtime friend and collaborator, Seth MacFarlane. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Liz: @lizgillz Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Howdy, listeners! Dutton Ranch star Natalie Alyn Lind rides into kinder pastures on The Art of Kindness podcast with Robert Peterpaul. From cowboy camp to filming in Texas alongside the legendary Annette Bening, Natalie opens up about the kind lessons she's learned growing up in an acting dynasty. The positive podcast covers: How Natalie's mom Barbara Alyn Woods taught her and her sisters to lead with kindness and authenticity in Hollywood. Acts of kindness from her debut onscreen in One Tree Hill to her current role in Paramount's Dutton Ranch. Producing her first film Halloween Store Plus: Survivor fandom, cowboy culture, dogs on set, and a heartfelt reminder that you never know what someone is going through behind closed doors. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Natalie: @natalynlind Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Broadway's Tony-nominated comedic genius Grey Henson is a magnet for good, and he's here to tell you how on The Art of Kindness. The musical theater performer joins Robert Peterpaul to share acts of kindness from behind the scenes of shows, like Book of Mormon, Mean Girls and Elf, to now... BIGFOOT? This positive podcast covers: How to be a "magnet for goodness" in your every day life. What Grey's learned about unlocking vulnerability and "childlike wonder" through the iconic musical theatre roles he's played. Leading with BIG kindness on his new musical BIGFOOT! + more! GREY HENSON recently played Buddy in the Broadway revival of Elf the Musical, earning him a Drama Desk Award nomination. He made his Broadway debut as Elder McKinley in The Book of Mormon, a role that he originated on the first national tour. He was also seen on Broadway as Storyteller 2 in Shucked and earned Tony and Drama Desk Award nominations for his performance as Damian in Mean Girls. Other credits include Michael in tick, tick… BOOM! at the Kennedy Center and Tate in the Netflix series “Girls5Eva”. Find out more: BIGFOOT: A NEW MUSICAL Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Grey @greyhenson Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Broadway performer Nina White (The Queen of Versailles) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul for a lovely discussion on navigating the ups and downs of theatrical journey with kindness all the way up to her new play You Got Older at the Cherry Lane Theatre. This positive podcast episode features: How Nina is working through stage door discomfort to learn to better accept compliments. The golden advice she received from her Tony-winning Kimberly Akimbo co-star Victoria Clark and The Queen of Versailles powerhouse Kristin Chenoweth. Her self tape tips + other advice for young musical theatre performers. The kindness of being present and honest and much more. NINA WHITE stars as ‘Jenny’ in the Off-Broadway production of YOU GOT OLDER, which opened at the Cherry Lane Theatre on February 23rd to rave reviews and was a New York Times Critics’ Pick. Most recently, she could be seen in Broadway musical THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES, for which she received acclaim for her standout role as 'Victoria,’ daughter to Kristen Chenowith's 'Jackie'. Nina first broke onto the theater scene originating the role of ‘Teresa’ in the 5x Tony-winning musical, KIMBERLY AKIMBO, followed by a role in the Kennedy Center’s acclaimed production of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE. Her on-screen credits include A24’s Golden Globe-winning film, A DIFFERENT MAN, starring Sebastian Stan, and Peacock series LONG BRIGHT RIVER with Amanda Seyfried. She resides in New York City. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Nina @iamninawhite Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bestselling Author Emma Straub's new book American Fantasy has pulled into port! The acclaimed writer joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her joyful writing process, the kindness and power of nostalgia, being kind to yourself as a creator and more. This episode features: Why Emma Straub's book American Fantasy meets the current moment, thanks to a healthy dose of nostalgia Embracing the "uncool-ness" of being a passionate fan Creating community with her bookstore Books Are Magic in Brooklyn How vulnerability can unlock kindness, creativity and more Emma Straub is the New York Times-bestselling author of six books for adults: the novels This Time Tomorrow, All Adults Here, The Vacationers, Modern Lovers, Laura Lamont’s Life in Pictures, and the short story collection Other People We Married. She is also the author of a picture book, Very Good Hats. Her books have been published in more than twenty languages. She and her husband are also the beloved owners of Books Are Magic, an iconic independent bookstore in Brooklyn, New York. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Emma @emmastraub Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pretty Lethal writer, director and producer Vicky Jewson joins the Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to dive deep into her personal act of kindness/ mission: infusing the action genre with more women. Episode takeaways: The tangible and unique way that onscreen legend Uma Thurman showed everyone kindness onset. Why kindness is SPECIFIC and creates communities. How Vicky is fighting to tell more female-driven stories in the action space (including an upcoming female Rambo), and more. PRETTY LETHAL: An action-packed thriller where five ballerinas (Iris Apatow, Lana Condor, Millicent Simmonds, Avantika, Maddie Ziegler), on their way to a prestigious dance competition, are barely on speaking terms when their bus breaks down in a remote forest. With no other options, they reluctantly seek shelter at an unsettling roadside inn run by Devora Kasimer (Uma Thurman), a reclusive former ballet prodigy. From the moment they arrive, something feels wrong—and their worst instincts prove right. As the situation turns deadly, the fractured team must set aside rivalries and weaponize years of brutal training, turning grace, discipline, and even pointe shoes into tools for survival. Now streaming on Prime! Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Vicky @vicjewson Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony-nominee and TikTok sensation Kevin Chamberlin says kindness is the key to longevity. The When Playwrights Kill actor joins host Robert Peterpaul for a morning chat on The Art of Kindness to discuss: How kindness and authenticity built his legendary acting career from Wicked to Seussical to Addams Family. Going viral on TikTok years after his Disney Channel hit Jessie and embracing a whole new digital chapter. Surviving Broadway chaos, on-stage mishaps, and finding humor in it all. Why you should “let it ruin your breakfast, not your lunch.” The importance of finding one moment of joy every day—and much more! KEVIN CHAMBERLIN is a three-time Tony Award-nominated actor. Kevin is best known for his work on stage in Dirty Blonde, Seussical, and The Addams Family as well as on-camera in Disney Channel’s “Jessie”. Following his time on “Jessie”, Kevin quickly rose to online prominence, accumulating an audience of 12 million engaged fans across social media platforms. Check out: WHEN PLAYWRIGHTS KILL Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Kevin @chamberlin.kevin Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Netflix star Alyvia Alyn Lind says kindness is the way(ward)! The actor joins host Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness to discuss: Working with kind leaders like Mae Martin, Toni Collette and Dolly Parton. How her kind family and friends keep her grounded. Her love of ducks and much more! ALYVIA ALYN LIND is an emerging powerhouse actress. This fall, she starred opposite Toni Collette in Wayward, Netflix’s hit psychological thriller series from creator Mae Martin. The series premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, and ranked in the top 10 on Netflix in over 35 countries. Lind previously starred as the female lead of the Peacock/Syfy horror series Chucky. She also led Roku’s Spiderwick Chronicles with Christian Slater and Netflix’s Daybreak alongside Matthew Broderick. In 2015, Lind played the role of Dolly Parton in Coat of Many Colors, which earned her a Critics Choice Award nomination. Lind was also nominated for a Daytime Emmy for her work on The Young and the Restless. Her additional television credits include the Hulu comedy series Future Man, Showtime’s acclaimed drama Masters of Sex and AMC’s The Walking Dead. In film, Lind starred with Adam Sandler in Warner Bros Pictures’ Blended, alongside Drew Barrymore in Netflix’s Overboard, and across Bella Thorne in Masquerade. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Alyvia @alyviaalind Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
American Idol runner up-turned author David Archuleta joins the Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss his authentic new memoir Devout. From the 'blur' of being on Idol to finding the courage to practice self-acceptance later in life, David and Robert openly discuss: Life-changing acts of kindness that saved David on his journey to coming out. Connecting with celebrities like Dolly Parton, Loren Allred and Demi Lovato. Plus, a surprise from his mom and BFF, and more! DAVID ARCHULETA: On Season 7 of American Idol, David Archuleta made over 30 million television viewers swoon with his angelic voice, ultimately winning runner-up on the show at the age of seventeen. His journey has included turning out multiple platinum-selling hits, achieving global acclaim as a live performer, and emerging as an undeniable fixture on the pop-culture scene. Since his first single “Crush,” he has released eight studio albums, twenty-four singles, and twenty-one music videos. Hit singles “Crème Brulée” and “Hell Together” have marked a striking evolution and new chapter for David as an artist and creative entrepreneur while continuing to expand his audience globally. Having grown up as a poster child for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, David struggled to be his true self and didn’t come out as queer until 2021. He now advocates for members of the LGBTQ+ community. He lives in Los Angeles, California. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony-winning Broadway star Stephanie J. Block (The Cher Show, 9 to 5) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss making the rehearsal room a kinder place, cracking up onstage in Into the Woods, what she learned from Dolly Parton, and so much more. Plus, there's some STAR-STUDDED surprises from her The Cher Show co-star Teal Wicks and her husband Sebastian Arcelus. (Originally recorded in 2023) With a career spanning over two decades, Stephanie J. Block-Arcelus is one of Broadway's most versatile talents. You may have been lucky enough to see her starring opposite Hugh Jackman in The Boy from Oz or perhaps she is your Elphaba! Stephanie actually originated Elphaba in the early workshops of Wicked and later went on to play her both in the first national tour and on Broadway. She has earned acclaim for starring turns in shows like Little Miss Sunshine, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Falsettos and Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical. In 2019, Stephanie won the Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award and Tony Award for playing the title role in The Cher Show. In addition to her stage and screen work, Stephanie has also taken her incredible voice to symphony orchestras across the US. Her solo concerts have earned her critical acclaim in both New York City and London, and her recording work includes several original cast albums, as well as her own album, This Place I Know. She also lends her voice to her own beautiful podcast Stages. Onscreen you’ve seen in her shows like Orange is the New Black, Homeland, Madame Secretary and the new film iModercai. Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Follow Stephanie @stephaniejblock Follow us @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony Award-winning designer and producer Clint Ramos joins host Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness for a textured chat on joy and kindness as an act of revolution. From Costume Designing hit shows like MAYBE HAPPY ENDING, to being a Producing Creative Director for Encores! at New York City Center, Clint shares experiences from the many hats he dons. - How his upbringing in the Philippines and the People Power Revolution inspired his journey into theater, using art as a powerful tool for social change. - How his historic Tony win changed things. - Tangible advice to bring kindness to the forefront of a busy life. Follow Clint: @clintramos Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
