What's Your Secret artwork

What's Your Secret

46 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 42 ratings

What's Your Secret is a podcast for creatives on a mission to live a fulfilled, happy life while pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. Host Ari Johnson interviews film creatives about what works for them, how they got where they are, and their so-called secrets to happiness and success. Tune in for honest, relatable discussions about balancing mental health with a career in the film industry, how to find "success," navigating imposter syndrome, how to be happy on the journey, and so much more.

Film Interviews TV & Film Education Self-Improvement film interviews female filmmaker women in film ari johnson women in television entertainment industry creativity mental health imposter syndrome
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Episodes

Stop Overthinking and Do It with Jazmyn // Standup Comedian & Content Creator

November 30, 2021 08:00 - 46 minutes - 32.2 MB

Today's guest is Jazmyn. Jazmyn is a comedian, content creator, and TikTok star. Some things we chat about: Quitting a corporate job to do comedy Today is preparing you for something in the future Not everyone is going to like you Being a multi-faceted creator Having a strong point of view A week in the life of a content creator Growing on TikTok Not being polite in comedy Writing down your accomplishments Taking the time to do the things you want to do Recognizing your own capabi...

No One Knows What They're Doing So Go For It with Arielle Kilker // Documentary Filmmaker

November 23, 2021 09:00 - 53 minutes - 36.8 MB

Today's guest is Arielle Kilker. Arielle is a documentary filmmaker who developed and co-directed the Emmy award winning docuseries Cheer, supervising editor on Last Chance U, and more. Some things we chat about: Turning down opportunities How development works in the doc world How long it takes to film a docuseries / how long post production takes Reverse engineering the story Faking it till you make it You don’t have to be born brave Making Cheer with a predominately female crew Ge...

Make Writing the Most Important Thing with Felicia Pride // Writer & Director

November 16, 2021 08:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MB

Today we're chatting with Felicia Pride. Felicia is the writer and executive producer of Really Love (available on Netflix), a producer on Grey's Anatomy, and an award winning filmmaker. Some things we chat about: Giving writing “one last shot” Making writing the most important thing Defining a writing practice for yourself Getting strong on the rewrite The importance of self work Moving into directing Live your life so you have things to write about Looking forward to getting older ...

Starting a Production Company is a Process with Sienna Beckman // Head of Development and Production

November 09, 2021 08:00 - 55 minutes - 38.4 MB

Today's guest is Sienna Beckman. Sienna is the head of Development and Production at Emergence Films. Some things we chat about: Transitioning from LA to London Being the only woman on set Starting a production company The LA grind Financing and distribution The overnight success myth The feeling that you’re supposed to know everything Mentioned in the Episode: Stephen Follows Blog Cinando Connect: Emergencefilms.us IG: emergencefilms Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request t...

Don't Be Afraid to Take Chances with Erica Matlin // Development and Production Exec

November 02, 2021 07:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MB

Today's guest is Eric Matlin - Director of Development and Production at Likely Story. Some things we chat about: Balancing a job at a production company with working a job in film Figuring out what works for you A writer partner to hold you accountable What it’s like working at a production company The difference between production and development The benefits of a consistent schedule No one knows what they’re talking about Building confidence Owning who you are  Stay Up to Date: ...

Remind Yourself of Your Accomplishments with Christine Cho // Producer

October 26, 2021 07:00 - 55 minutes - 37.9 MB

Today's guest is producer Christine Cho. Some things we chat about: The decision to go to film school How films shape who we are What a producer does How film school differs from the real world What it’s like producing a feature (and a first feature) The importance of representation Funding a feature film Social media and filmmaking The challenges of producing Reminding yourself of your accomplishments Connect: Face On Seed and Spark Faceonmovie.com Chocreative.com IG: faceonmovie...

Don't Be Afraid of Asking Questions with Annie Manning // Costumer

October 19, 2021 07:00 - 50 minutes - 35 MB

Today's guest is costumer Annie Manning. Some things we chat about: The hierarchy of a costume shop Qualities to succeed as a costumer The importance of asking questions Feeling behind on your own life Creating on TikTok Creative problem solving in costuming Experience vs skill Building the muscle memory - do it over and over Connect: Tiktok thederpiestpony IG thederpiestpony Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tuned for updates! Follow wh...

Create the Story You Want to Tell with Keylee Sudduth // Multi-hyphenate Filmmaker

October 12, 2021 07:00 - 58 minutes - 40 MB

Today's guest is multi-hyphenate filmmaker Keylee Sudduth. Some things we chat about: Transitioning from commercial actor to multi hyphenate filmmaker Making your own opportunities The pressure to be productive Comparison and moving the goal post Imposter syndrome from not going to film school Everyone who has ever made something wonderful has had the same fears Fear is part of the process Create the story you want to tell Don’t let rejection stop you Don’t compare your movie to so...

Be Happy at Whatever Step You're On with Dara Taylor // Composer

October 05, 2021 07:00 - 46 minutes - 32.1 MB

Today's guest is Dara Taylor. Dara is a composer in Los Angeles. Some things we chat about: Transitioning from NYC to LA Breaking into the LA industry Finding ways to be useful Finding work as a composer Getting an agent as a composer The benefits of deadlines Finding the voice of the film Tips for directors communicating to composers How Covid has changed composing It’s about who you know - but it’s easy to get to know people Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Seri...

Don't Take Rejection Personally with Mayumi Yoshida // Actor/Writer/Director

September 28, 2021 07:00 - 53 minutes - 37 MB

Today's guest is Mayumi Yoshida. Mayumi is an actor, writer, and director and we chat about: Learning from being on set The benefits of being a multi-hyphenate  Not banking on one single thing resulting in less disappointment Audition blues Self image Allowing yourself to indulge in sadness Acknowledging your own feelings Following your impulses The importance of representation Connect: IG: immyyoume Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tune...

It's Okay to be Still with Erica Bream // Casting Director

September 21, 2021 08:00 - 53 minutes - 37.1 MB

Today's guest is Erica Bream. Erica is a casting director, and we chat about: The day to the day in the life as a casting director  How casting blends creativity and business The fear of not working again Comparing to others career Accepting that not everything is about you Defining success How casting directors are rooting for actors Do actors need to be on TikTok/ social media? Connect: IG: ericasbreamcast ericasbreamcasting.com Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the S...

We're Back for Season 2! // Solo Episode

September 14, 2021 07:00 - 18 minutes - 12.5 MB

Hi friends! We are back for Season 2! Check out this episode for an update on where I've been and a preview of what's to come. Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tuned for updates! Follow whatsyoursecretpodcast and arigjohnson on Instagram Visit whatsyoursecretpodcast.com Music by: Michael Paraskevas 

WYS Update / Season 2(?) Coming Soon!

June 01, 2021 07:00 - 3 minutes - 2.29 MB

A little update on what's happening with the show - we'll be be back soon!

Find Your Unique Perspective with Film Critic Beandrea July

April 13, 2021 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.5 MB

Today we're chatting with film critic, writer, and audio producer Beandrea July. We chat about: Going through the open doors Starting out as a film critic Writing the articles you would want to read Looking for your unique perspective & looking for the story that hasn’t been written Basing your opinions on research Pay expectations for arts journalism Misconceptions about film critics Fear of judgement is normal Getting comfortable with asking Smaller indie movies getting traction ...

Success is a Moment with Nikki Menon

April 06, 2021 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.5 MB

Today we are chatting with Nikki Menon. We chat about: Cold emailing Growing your network Paying it forward The benefits of working at an agency The power of being an assistant Doing things for fun Continuously moving the goalpost What do you want to say with the things you make? The word selfish Pushing the conversation forward You learn by experience Listen to the Chaat Room podcast! Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tuned for updates...

Ask for What You Want with Actor and Career Coach Jenna Doolittle

March 30, 2021 07:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MB

Today we're chatting with actor and actor career coach Jenna Doolittle. We chat about: Feeling “behind” How to build relationships with casting directors Tips for actors (from an actor coach!) The importance of taking classes in LA Generosity in the industry Asking for what you want Using social media as a tool How you define success Connect: IG: thatdoolittle Actors Rise Newsletter Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tuned for updates! Fol...

Developing Your Activism with Melissa Acedera of Polo's Pantry

March 23, 2021 07:00 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MB

Today we are chatting with the Founder of Polo's Pantry, Melissa Acedera. Polo's Pantry is a mobile food pantry dedicated helping unhoused and marginalized communities in L.A. The need to wear multiple hats Including structural change in the food system as part of the conversation Not know where to start and feeling intimidated by activism How to get involved in food justice Taking cues from the houseless community COVID’s affect on food access Making activism personal Why language i...

Find What Works Best for You with Ebony Adams

March 16, 2021 07:00 - 50 minutes - 34.7 MB

Today we are chatting with Ebony Adams. We chat about: The Women in Film organization and the amazing programing they do The most productive thing you can do is survive Giving yourself permission to create bad work Accountability partners Doing the pre-work Finding what works for you Embracing the zero-draft Writing stories because it’s a story you want to tell The notion that an overnight success is a myth There’s no time limit on your work Mentioned in the Episode: Wif.org Check...

Using Sound to Help Tell the Story with Brielle Atcherhof

March 09, 2021 08:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

Today we're chatting with post audio engineer Brielle Achterhof. We chat about: The difference between production sound and post production sound  How to get a job in sound Starting as an intern Social presence in sound Women in sound What makes a good sound engineer Using the background to help tell the story Ditching the 5 year plan Believing in yourself And more! Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to Friend Request the Series on YouTube and stay tuned for updates! Follow whatsyourse...

Inspiration is a Practice with Photographer and Performer Marissa Mooney

March 02, 2021 08:00 - 50 minutes - 34.7 MB

Today we're chatting with photographer and performer Marissa Mooney. We chat about: How to get work as a photographer in LA Being curious and building relationships Admitting when you don’t know the answer The day to day of working as a photographer Inspiration is a sacred thing People photograph better when they feel better Setting boundaries and knowing your worth Establishing your rate Making friends with your anxiety Aligning your worth with your productivity Connect with Mari...

How Filmmaking Helps You as an Actor with Tessa Markle

February 16, 2021 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MB

Today we are chatting with actor and filmmaker Tessa Markle (co-host of the Femme Regard Podcast!) We chat about: Learning to fall in love with filmmaking How filmmaking helps you as an actor Creating your own work when you didn’t go to film school Looking at your accomplishments to overcome imposter syndrome How to start a production company The benefits of deadlines Why podcasting is awesome The pressure to know how everything in filmmaking works Everyone has to start somewhere A...

Confidence is a Practice with Brooke Trantor

February 09, 2021 08:00 - 55 minutes - 38.2 MB

Today we're chatting with actor and filmmaker Brooke Trantor. We chat about: Putting yourself in a box Defining yourself as “only” an actor Relationships are the most tangible things in our industry Being the best person you can be and being the best artist you can be Admitting when you don’t know what someone said Becoming comfortable asking questions Healing doesn’t happen overnight Body image in the entertainment industry Healing is a lifelong process The more you get to know w...

Write What Only You Know with Charlotte T Martin

February 02, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 43.7 MB

Today we are chatting with Charlotte T Martin. We chat about: Getting over your own bullshit Writing off the people that you can’t please Being afraid people will think what you’re doing is stupid You HAVE to put it out into the world and be proud of it, Because someone will find it and someone will find you! The fear of rejection Admitting to yourself that you have an idea that you think is good You can master the practice of sitting down and writing How to actually get into meditat...

Creating Your Own Work with Carolina Alvarez of Femme Regard

January 26, 2021 08:00 - 58 minutes - 40.3 MB

Today we're chatting with Carolina Alvarez from the Femme Regard podcast. We chat about: Creating your own work (even if you didn't go to film school) Starting a production company How wearing multiple hats makes you better at your job Give yourself permission to own your title Why podcasting is awesome  Creating community Connect with Carolina: IG: lafemmecarolina Podcast IG: femmeregard Listen to: Femme Regard Podcast Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to my new YouTube channel to learn a...

10 Goals for 2021 [Solo Episode]

January 19, 2021 08:00 - 23 minutes - 16 MB

We're back with [another] solo episode! Next week we'll be back to our interviews with our incredible guests- stay tuned! Stay Up to Date: Follow whatsyoursecretpodcast and arigjohnson on Instagram Subscribe to AriJo on YouTube Sign up for our newsletter to download Ari’s Secrets (otherwise known as what Ari is reading/watching) Visit whatsyoursecretpodcast.com

10 Things That Improved My 2020 [Solo Episode]

January 12, 2021 08:00 - 23 minutes - 16.5 MB

We're back with another solo episode! This week is 10 things that improved my 2020- I hope it helps your 2021! Stay Up to Date: Follow whatsyoursecretpodcast and arigjohnson on Instagram Subscribe to AriJo on YouTube Sign up for our newsletter to download Ari’s Secrets (otherwise known as what Ari is reading/watching) Visit whatsyoursecretpodcast.com

I Don't Know the Secret with Ari Johnson

January 05, 2021 08:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

Today we have a solo episode with yours truly. We're talking about how this podcast came to be, creating your own work, New Year's resolutions, and more. Thank you so much for tuning in and for supporting the show. Stay Up to Date: Follow whatsyoursecretpodcast and arigjohnson on Instagram Subscribe to AriJo on YouTube Sign up for our newsletter to download Ari’s Secrets (otherwise known as what Ari is reading/watching) Visit whatsyoursecretpodcast.com

Only You Can Be You with Actor Kimia Behpoornia

December 29, 2020 08:00 - 48 minutes - 33.6 MB

Today we're chatting with actor and comedian Kimia Behpoornia. You may have seen Kimia in Abby's, Atypical, Unicorn Store, or onstage at UCB. What chat about: Doing what feels good Transitioning from guest star to series regular The fear of never working again Bringing yourself and your own authenticity to the character Trusting yourself and knowing what is right for you Finding yourself in the character Stay Up to Date: Subscribe to my new YouTube channel to learn about all things ...

Don't Be Scared of Missing the Shot with Actor Rachael Perrell-Fosket

December 22, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 42.5 MB

Today we're chatting with Rachael Perrell-Fosket. Rachael is an actor (Midway, Grimm, Hawaii Five-O) based in LA. We chat about: How acting is a skill Behind the scenes of CGI Actor spreadsheets The difference in the Portland acting market and LA The fear of ruining a movie Being afraid of what other's think of you Being ready for the next thing  Connect with Rachael: IG: rachaelperrellfosket Mentioned in the Episode: Work in Progress with Sophia Bush Causebox (not sponsored lol) ...

Stop and Smell the Roses with Tracy Ip

December 15, 2020 08:00 - 55 minutes - 38 MB

Today we're chatting with director/producer Tracy Ip. We chat about: How smell can improve your life Beauty standards Taking time to do things you actually like Tying self worth to productivity Prioritizing self reflection Accepting who you are How we define ourselves and how identity plays into happiness The key to succeeding in this business: being a nice person Mentioned in the Episode: Invisibilia: An Unlikely Super Power Invisibilia: How to Become Batman Stay Up to Date: Fo...

Making the Jump with Podcaster & Entrepreneur AJ Joyce

December 08, 2020 08:00 - 53 minutes - 36.7 MB

Today we're chatting with AJ Joyce. AJ is the host of She's So Reel, a podcast that shares real stories and expertise from female creators, artists, and many more in the industry. Definitely go check out her show!! Connect with AJ: IG: Ajsoreel We chat about: Making your own seat at the table Defining expertise Becoming an expert by doing Taking ownership of the things you want Being intentional about gratitude Believing your dreams are possible And more! Mentioned in the Episode:...

Cinematography is More Than a Beautiful Image with Alyssa Brocato

December 01, 2020 08:00 - 45 minutes - 31.5 MB

Today we are chatting with my dear friend Alyssa Brocato. Ali is a cinematographer based in LA, was the first DP I’ve ever worked with as a director, and is an all around gem of a human being.  We chat about: Staying calm under stress Steps to take to become a cinematographer Doing your best rather than trying to be “the best” Giving yourself permission to fail Caring about what you’re working on and who you’re working with How cinematography is more than making a beautiful image Fin...

Writing for TV with Lauren Moon

November 24, 2020 08:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MB

If you are interested in writing for television then this episode is for you! Today we are talking with Lauren Moon. Lauren has written on Atypical, Good Trouble, Dash & Lily, and more! We chat about everything from: How to get staffed on a show Summoning inspiration Understanding the hierarchy within a writer’s room Sensitivity as a strength Vision vs delusion Pitching basics  And more! Watch: Play the Hits directed by Lauren Moon and CJ Ballesteros Get Involved: Tuesday Night Pro...

Creating Authentic Work with Actor, Writer, & Comedian Ayla Glass

November 17, 2020 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.4 MB

If you're interested in sketch comedy, stand up, or creating your own work, then you'll love today's episode! Today we are chatting with actor, writer, and comedian Ayla Glass (and fellow Kansan!) Ayla is the creator and showrunner of The BAEgency, We chat about: Coming from Kansas How to get involved in sketch The importance of deadlines Accepting a compliment Celebrate your wins Feeling like a project is never enough Looking for joy Plant mom life Connect with Ayla: IG: aylagla...

Taking Ownership of Your Dreams with Filmmaker Kelsey Fordham

November 03, 2020 08:00 - 54 minutes - 37.4 MB

If you're a creative in need of a feel-good episode, then you'll love this episode. Today we're chatting with filmmaker Kelsey Fordham. We chat about: Taking ownership of your dreams Imposter syndrome/ feeling not enough Directing for the first time Staying true to yourself and following your authentic voice Getting started "late" Using fear as a compass And more! Connect with Kelsey: IG: @kelseyfordham_ @entitled.shortfilm Mentioned in the Episode: Why Not Me by Mindy Kaling Ar...

Give Yourself Permission with Writer and Director Jennifer Cho Suhr

October 27, 2020 07:00 - 55 minutes - 38 MB

If you're interested in creating independent film, then this episode is for you! Today we are chatting with Jennifer Cho Suhr. Jen is a writer and director. We talk about: The process of getting a feature off of the ground Embracing the term female filmmaker Learning from your old work and building internal confidence Giving yourself permission to create and make bad work Generosity in the industry And more! Mentioned in the Episode: Sofy Solomon Seasame Workshop Tribeca: Through He...

TV Development & Learning on the Job with Allegra Breedlove

October 20, 2020 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.6 MB

Are you interested in learning about TV development? Then you'll love this episode! Allegra Breedlove works in comedy development at ABC. We cover everything from what goes into comedy development (i.e. how TV shows actually get made) to learning on the job and looking for the good in life. Overview What goes into comedy development? What makes a show stand out? Learning on the job Using everything as a learning opportunity Focus on being your best you instead of comparing yourself to ...

Telling Your Story with Writer, Actor, & Music Artist Paige Bryan

October 13, 2020 07:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MB

If you're a creative in need of a pep talk, then this episode is for you! Today we sit down with Songwriter, Actor, Writer, Music Artist, and all around creative badass Paige Bryan.  We chat about: Comparing yourself to imaginary versions of yourself Being a small part of something bigger Building others up rather than tearing people down Being true to who you are Dreaming big *Please note this episode was recorded several months ago. Connect with Paige: IG: paigebryanofficial Mentio...

Separating Happiness from Success with Actor & Filmmaker Jordan Maranto

October 05, 2020 18:00 - 54 minutes - 37.6 MB

Actors and filmmakers, you'll love this episode! Today we're chatting with Jordan Maranto. Jordan is an actor and filmmaker based in LA and is a proud UT alum. We chat about: Getting caught in the comparison bubble Separating happiness from success Taking class for fun Being an actor is expensive! Finding your niche in acting  No shame in a day job Mentioned in the Episode: Merlin Works - Improv Class in Austin taught by Shayna Merlin Howard Fine- Acting Class in LA Fine on Acting-...

Do It Scared with Actor Misha Molani

September 29, 2020 07:00 - 52 minutes - 36 MB

Misha Molani is an actor and comedian based in Los Angeles. When she’s not acting, Misha is an art coordinator on Orville. If you are interested in getting involved on set in any capacity, then you're going to love this episode. We chat about what exactly an art coordinator does, how to get involved on set, the underrepresentation of South Asian people in Hollywood, always being a student, and “doing it scared.”  Please note: This episode was recorded several months ago. Mentioned in the E...

Casting for Television with Cara Chute Rosenbaum

September 22, 2020 12:00 - 54 minutes - 37.8 MB

If you’re interested in learning more about casting for film and television, then this episode is for you! Cara Chute Rosenbaum is casting director in Los Angeles. Some of her recent work includes The Mindy Project, The League, and Jumanji Next Level.  We chat about: How to get a job in casting What actually goes into casting (It’s not just about being talented!) Actors: what do YOU bring to the role? How long does it take to cast a TV show? Everyone feels imposter syndrome (even castin...

It's a Marathon Not a Sprint with Actor Natalie Cañizares

September 15, 2020 13:00 - 48 minutes - 33.7 MB

This week I chat with my friend and actor Natalie Cañizares. Natalie is a former dancer and health coach but made the leap to acting when she found herself feeling like things weren’t working. We chat about everything from treating acting as a marathon and not a sprint, how to balance social media, handling rejection, pivoting from one career to another, and the pressure of aging in Hollywood. Note: This episode was recorded several months ago. Connect with Natalie: IG: nataliecanizares M...

It's a Marathon Not a Sprint with Natalie Cañizares

September 15, 2020 13:00 - 48 minutes - 33.7 MB

This week I chat with my friend and actor Natalie Cañizares. Natalie is a former dancer and health coach but made the leap to acting when she found herself feeling like things weren’t working. We chat about everything from treating acting as a marathon and not a sprint, how to balance social media, handling rejection, pivoting from one career to another, and the pressure of aging in Hollywood. Note: This episode was recorded several months ago. Connect with Natalie: IG: nataliecanizares M...

Forget What You "Should" Be Doing with Actor Cara Mitsuko

September 15, 2020 12:00 - 55 minutes - 37.9 MB

Today we sit down with my dear friend, actor Cara Mitsuko. Cara is an actor based out of Los Angeles and you may have seen her in You, The Rookie, Westworld, or Man in the High Castle. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a guest star on a television show, then you’ll love this episode. We talk about everything from the pressure to appear “interesting” and “desirable,” finding freedom in exploration, following your gut, and moving away from what you feel like you “should” be doing. ...

Introducing What's Your Secret with Ari Johnson

September 11, 2020 03:00 - 12 minutes - 8.79 MB

Do you ever feel like everyone knows some secret to life that you don't? Me too. Welcome to What's Your Secret. I'm Ari Johnson, and on this podcast you'll feel like you're sitting down with a friend to discuss the secrets to a happy, successful, and creative life. We're talking to some badass creatives including actors, writers, directors, and film folks to talk about what works for them and how they got where they are. This intro episode is intended to help you get to know me a little bit...

Introducing What's Your Secret

September 02, 2020 04:00 - 10 minutes - 7.34 MB

Do you ever feel like everyone knows some secret to life that you don't? Me too. Welcome to What's Your Secret. I'm Ari Johnson, and on this podcast you'll feel like you're sitting down with a friend to discuss the secrets to a happy, successful, and creative life. We're talking to some badass creatives including actors, directors, and film folks to talk about what works for them and how they got where they are. This intro episode is intended to help you get to know me a little bit and give...

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