This month on Overheard at Chica’s Café, we are delighted towelcome the insightful Albert Bramante, a seasoned talent agent, as well as the accomplished author of Rise Above the Script. In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of the current entertainment industry. Albertshares his expert perspective on the evolving landscape, shedding light on the myriad challenges performers face today. We also explore the subtle ways in which artists often unwittingly undermine their ow...
Jul 01, 2025•36 min•Season 2025Ep. 35
AI & Entertainment: The Future of Creativity or the End of It? In this episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, Sonia delves into the growing influence of AI in the entertainment industry, including voice cloning, script writing, AI actors, and music creation. Is AI a tool that empowers artists, or is it taking their place? Engage in this intriguing discussion about the essence of creativity in an era where machines can replicate human imagination. Sonia shares her heartfelt, artistic insights ...
May 31, 2025•4 min•Season 2025Ep. 34
Welcome to another episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café. Itfeels like it’s been a lifetime, and to be completely honest, life has thrown quite a few curveballs my way lately. I know this is just a passing phase, but my aspirations of incorporating video into this season’s podcast? Well, they slipped through my fingers like grabbing for air. I’m healing from an injury,and my father’s health has taken a downturn, necessitating several trips to the bustling city of Chicago to be by his side. Althou...
May 01, 2025•3 min•Season 2025Ep. 33
Welcome to a brief episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, where we discuss all things entertainment. This month, we address the current state of the industry, which has been slowed down due to the devastating fires in Los Angeles. As a resident of this city, I have personally experienced the effects of the Sunset Fire and had to evacuate my home. But amidst the chaos and destruction, one thing remains constant: our love for entertainment. This is why I have decided to record this month's episode ...
Mar 01, 2025•3 min•Season 2025Ep. 32
The year of 2024 brought about a whirlwind of changes in society, politics, and spirituality. It was a time of both struggle and beauty, as people grappled with the shifting landscape of the world. And as we enter this new year. The anticipation for next year's guests was already building, with promises of even more exciting names from all corners of the entertainment industry. These guests would bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, sure to captivate and inspire audiences. A spe...
Dec 31, 2024•4 min•Season 2024Ep. 31
Welcome to another edition of Overheard at Chica's Café where we have the talented musician and author Nathan Singer as our special guest. He shares with us his experience with his band, "Whiskey Shambles", and his transition from professional musician to published author while still being a part of the band. We share a few laughs and discover some similarities in our lives. Don't miss this entertaining and humorous interview! Get Whiskey Shambles T-Shirts/Hoodies https://amzn.to/493HBKZ https:/...
Nov 26, 2024•28 min•Season 2024Ep. 30
Our guest on this episode is the lively and entertaining Danny Mora. His energy and charisma fills the conversation, and we knew this was going to be a lively and entertaining episode. With Halloween here, we couldn't resist talking about ghosts and all things supernatural. But it wasn't all fun and games - we delved into the current state of the film and television industry, discussing its future and how technological advancements like AI could potentially impact actors' opportunities and finan...
Oct 31, 2024•29 min•Season 2024Ep. 29
Our guest for this month's episode is Matthew Carauddo, an acclaimed author of the thrilling fantasy series "Diamond Dragons." In this podcast, we delve into his experience in acting and storytelling, as well as his impressive stage combat skills. Tune in for an engaging conversation! OVERVIEW: In addition to acting, writing, singing and voice-over, Matthew Carauddo has over 15 years of experience in fencing, staged combat and martial arts (Wing Chun Kung Fu, Jujitsu, Shotokan Karate, Jeet Kune ...
Sep 30, 2024•29 min•Season 2024Ep. 28
On this month's episode of the Overheard at Chica's Café podcast, we have a special guest, Inam Inamullah, an internationally acclaimed playwright. Our conversation delves into his works such as Khali Plate (Empty Plate) and Ramzan and Jannat, a hilarious adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Exciting news for fans: Ramzan and Jannat will be embarking on a tour starting in October 2024! As a renowned artist, we also take a deep dive into Inam's creative process when it comes to designing...
Aug 30, 2024•21 min•Season 2024Ep. 27
As an aspiring actor, studying the craft is an essential part of the journey. One aspect that actors often neglect is understanding the evolution of a character, from script to screen. We will explore the different approaches to acting and why stage acting is not the same as acting on screen. 1. "From Script to Screen: The Evolution of a Character" Every character begins on the pages of a script, but it takes a skilled actor to bring them to life. Understanding the backstory, motivations, and co...
Jul 31, 2024•11 min•Season 2024Ep. 26
The newest installment of Overheard at Chica's Café Podcast is an exciting interview with the multi-talented Jean Philippe Kaya. As a DJ, classical pianist, musician, and producer, Kaya has made waves in the music industry with his versatile skills and unique blend of genres. Listeners can expect to hear about his journey into the world of DJing, insights into his successful music career, and valuable advice for those looking to break into these creative fields. Don't miss this chance to gain in...
Jun 26, 2024•27 min•Season 2024Ep. 25
Our special guest on the latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café is Jan Mullen, a seasoned music industry executive with an incredible wealth of experience. Her career spans from the alternative punk bands in the vibrant 80's music scene to collaborating with renowned jazz musicians. In this highly informative and fascinating episode, Jan shares her vast knowledge and insights into the ever-evolving music industry. Listen as she takes us through her personal journey in the world of music and...
May 29, 2024•28 min•Season 2024Ep. 24
On our latest episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, airing in April 2024, we are joined by Dominic Rambaran, a fellow actor whom I have known for many years. We delve into his experiences in the world of acting and discuss the humorous and challenging moments he has encountered on stage and in the industry. Tune in to gain insight into the journey of an actor's life. Hailing from the East Coast of the United States, he was raised in a supportive family and attended Phillips Academy before pursui...
Apr 17, 2024•29 min•Season 2024Ep. 23
The episode went on for longer than expected, so I decided to add a bonus segment where we discuss the impact of AI on actors and writers, as well as concerns about AI during the strikes.
Mar 21, 2024•8 min•Season 2024Ep. 22
This month's special guest on Overheard at Chica's Café is entertainment lawyer Mark Pearson. Although this episode may be longer than others, it is packed with fascinating discussions. We delve into the legalities and requirements for success in the music, film, and entertainment industries. AI and its impact on creative property also takes center stage in our conversation. If you're interested in learning about thriving in the constantly evolving entertainment world, this episode is a must-lis...
Mar 21, 2024•42 min•Season 2024Ep. 22
In this episode of Overheard at Chica’s Café, Alex Greenwood shares an intriguing story about his writing journey and his encounter with a producer who requested him to write a treatment. Alex delves into the challenges and excitement of the process, providing valuable insights for aspiring writers. Throughout the episode, Alex and his previous co-host on the podcast, Chica and the Man, share their signature humor, resulting in a lighthearted and entertaining conversation. Join them as they laug...
Feb 15, 2024•33 min•Season 2004Ep. 21
Happy New Year to all! As the year comes to an end, I want to wish everyone an amazing New Year filled with love, joy, prosperity, and most importantly, good health. We often take our health for granted, but it truly is the foundation for enjoying life's many blessings. Overheard at Chica's Café launched in July of 2022 as a way to bring some lightheartedness back into our lives after three years of pandemic struggles. In the upcoming year, we plan on adding more interviews at the suggestion of ...
Jan 28, 2024•3 min•Season 2023Ep. 19
Join us in celebrating the beginning of a new year with our special guest, Sound Designer and Composer Jane Shaw. We delve into her journey into the world of sound design for theater, and explore her impressive list of credits. Our conversation is full of fun anecdotes about her career, as well as her hobbies outside of work. As one of the founding members of TSDCA (Theatrical Sound Design Composer Association), she has a wealth of knowledge about the history and current state of sound design in...
Jan 17, 2024•31 min•Season 2024Ep. 20
This month on Overheard at Chica’s Café, we welcome Che'Rae Adams. Che’Rae is the Artistic Director of PlayPen in Philadelphia and the founding director of LA Writer’s Center. We discuss the current state of theater after the pandemic and what’s to come for this creative community. Che’Rae gives us an insight into her journey as a full-time artist; from an actor, to director, dramaturge, and now Artistic Director. Listen in to hear her words of wisdom about the future of theater. Che’Rae has bee...
Nov 29, 2023•27 min•Season 2023Ep. 18
My life and acting updates. It's been a few months since my last post, mainly due to the writer's and actor's strike. Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are ongoing, but I'm grateful for the updates each day. In the meantime, I've been attending many commercial auditions in person and through self-tapes. Although I haven't booked any of them yet, being put on avail several times in the last month tells me that I'm headed in the right direction. As a matter of fact, I have another call-back...
Oct 30, 2023•5 min•Season 2023Ep. 17
This month, join us at Overheard at Chica's Café as we welcome Kelly Keefe to the show. We'll have a great time as we share stories about the lessons we've learned through entertainment and life. She'll discuss her music releases, books, and how she developed Heartspace.co through mindfulness. Listen in for helpful hints from the entertainment industry and learn how to find success in your artistic endeavors. Kelly Keefe is a multi-disciplinary artist, including comedy, music, writing, and more....
Sep 29, 2023•37 min•Season 2023Ep. 16
In this month's episode, I'm joined by Steve Walker, a theatrical agent. We talk about what it takes to be a successful actor, from preparing for auditions, marketing oneself and honing one's skills. Listen in as Steve gives us a crash course on the responsibilities of an agent and the things actors should focus on. Steve Walker has been a talent agent for 17 years with Connor Ankrum & Associates in Los Angeles. He holds a Master's Degree in Administration from New York University and used t...
Aug 22, 2023•33 min•Season 2023Ep. 15
This month we welcomed Marabina Jaimes, an amazing fellow actor. Our conversation was so lively that we kept interrupting each other! We touched on the SAG-AFTRA Actor's strike, a labor dispute concerning television and film. While it's still permitted to make commercials and do dubbing, many unions are supporting the writers and actors faced with the stalemate. Marabina has won numerous awards for her diverse talents. Sonia mentions the movie she appeared in alongside Bob Odenkirk—'Life Upside ...
Jul 26, 2023•29 min•Season 2023Ep. 14
This month's episode is with musician, songwriter and music teacher Jane Witzenburg. We discuss her journey into acting and music and how she progressed during difficult times. Her band Summercatz has performed throughout the Los Angeles area. Jane is currently teaching privately and at in the Los Angeles Unified School District. http://summerlinmusicstudio.com Summercatz Band website Butterfly Video Insane Song Video...
Jun 30, 2023•22 min•Season 2023Ep. 13
On this month's episode of Overheard at Chica's Café, I have the pleasure of interviewing Doreen Calderon, a fellow actor and long-time friend of mine. We've shared the stage together in a musical, and right now you can catch her in Fatal Attraction on Paramount+. Our conversation covers her experiences as an actress and how she helps other actors develop their skills. Doreen Calderon is an American television, film and theater actress. She can be seen in the recurring role of "Maureen Walker" i...
May 24, 2023•36 min
In today's episode we have Kristi Schultz, a theatre maker, director and educator. We discuss her journey from college to New York where she worked at a strip house. Don't get too excited she wasn't stripping. Her stories from that time are entertaining and are the premise of her solo show Operation Dollhouse . We discuss how she got started in Los Angeles. Join in to this interesting and might I say, educational episode of life in the dollhouse. Kristi Schultz is a hyphenate Theatre maker and T...
Apr 19, 2023•33 min•Ep. 11
Norma and I have been friends for many years. Our friendship began during an audition, and we've stayed in touch ever since, discussing how the entertainment business has changed over time. We cover topics like what they expect of an actor when they are auditioning, working on a self-tape or going into the casting office, and how long it usually takes to complete an audition from start to finish. This episode gives you an idea of what to expect if you're interested in pursuing a career in acting...
Mar 29, 2023•34 min•Ep. 10
Oops! I forgot to get a guest for this month. If you listen to my other podcast, you'd know why. It's a downer, so I don't want to discuss it here. I decided I'd tell you about some films and TV shows and my experience with them. I basically just go through a few on my resume which you can catch on my website, https://sonialozada.com/resume/ . You can see that on my IMDB profile. Most of my experiences on the set have been exciting and fun. Check out the tidbits you can find out about life as an...
Feb 28, 2023•8 min•Ep. 9
Denise Sanchez is the January guest on Overheard at Chica's Café. We met when I played her mom on the TV Show, Bosch Legacy. It was a great experience. Denise is fun and we talk about her career and self-care. We share our acting experiences, laugh and enjoy our conversation. Check out this entertaining episode. Denise Sanchez was born in Connecticut, where she spent her childhood and teenage years. She earned a degree in broadcast journalism before changing course and moving to NYC to pursue a ...
Jan 25, 2023•34 min•Ep. 8
It's that time of the year where most of us reflect on what we did or didn't do in 2022. Looking forward to an upward emotion in 2023. I'm hopeful. Even though, like many others, I've had a challenging year in various aspects of my life. I feel hopeful and excited about the new year. It might be a dream, but I'm okay with it. We need to flourish with possibilities. As many know from my podcasts and blogs, I love comedies, enjoying a quiet evening with family and friends and quotes. Salvador Dali...
Dec 31, 2022•3 min•Ep. 7
