JOHNNO WILSON

EP. 63 JOHNNO WILSONActor | Writer | ComedianMargie had the best time catching up with her longtime student Johnno Wilson. Their relationship spans more than a decade, and this episode feels less like an interview and more like two old friends sitting down to talk shop, life, and fatherhood. Johnno most recently appearing in the critically acclaimed Season 2 of Twisted Metal (Peacock), High Potential (ABC), and Watson (CBS).  His upcoming projects include Larry David’s new untitled HBO series, Season 2 of BAD MONKEY (Apple TV+), and Zach Cregger’s highly anticipated RESIDENT EVIL feature film, which begins shooting this winter. A Groundlings Theatre alumnus, Johnno is based in Los Angeles.  In this episode, Johnno and Margie dive into the current audition landscape, navigating self-tapes, the importance of having a strong reader, and the ongoing journey of finding—and trusting—your own voice.@johnnowilson

Actress|Director from New ZealandKiwi actress, Morgan Bradley began her career in New Zealand as a child, fueled by a vivid imagination and a farm upbringing that taught her grit and a love of nature. She opens up to Margie about being bullied for standing out in a culture shaped by “tall poppy syndrome,” and how her curiosity—and refusal to shrink—shaped who she is.Morgan speaks candidly about navigating depression, discovering her self-worth, and learning to elevate her frequency by saying “yes” to life. Her career spans hosting Kid Zone to starring in Closer, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, and Rent, where she lived inside Mimi’s fierce yet hopeful spirit.She shares her leap to America, her directing journey, and creating the life of philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post.This episode leaves you lifted—reminding you to find your joy, stand tall, and never stop saying yes.

Andy Allo is a Cameroonian-American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actress. And now a very talented chef, focused on sharing her Cameroonian heritage. Andy is best known for her roles in "Upload," "Chicago Fire," and "Pitch Perfect 3," as well as her musical collaborations with Prince and her own solo endeavors.  Don’t miss this in-depth conversation with one of Margie’s most inspiring students.

EP. 60 Jeff WitjasPartner | Senior VP, Talent at IAGMargie reconnects with her old friend, talent agent, Jeff Witjas in a conversation spanning decades.  You’ve heard of people starting out in the mailroom at William Morris… well, that was Jeff Witjas in the late ’70’s.  During his 25 years at WMA, and later as Senior VP of Talent at APA, he has enjoyed much success and worked with such icons as Betty White, Jerry Lewis, Mary Tyler Moore, Bob Hope, George C. Scott and many more.  Now a Partner at IAG, his current roster includes Smokey Robinson, Jason Momoa, Elliot Gould, Jon Seda and Lucille Soong, among others.  Jeff and Margie trade stories and laughs in this very enjoyable podcast.

EP. 59 ANTHONY MEINDLWriter | Director | TeacherMargie talks with her friend and colleague, the wildly popular Anthony Meindl, who founded AMAW, Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop, now in its' 27th year.  AMAW is the largest scene study studio in LA with locations in 10 other cities worldwide.  Tony is the author of 5 books, including best-sellers, At Left Brain Turn Right and Book the F*cking Job.  His film, Where We Go From Here was recently acquired by HULU.  Margie and Anthony share similar acting philosophies, encouraging actors to let go, surrender and live in the moment.  They are all about helping actors get in touch with their power, accepting the many parts of themselves and saying, “Yes!” to life. Hear what happens when two of the top acting coaches in the world trade stories.   They PLAY, they RISK, and they are not afraid to BE MESSY.  

EP. 58 RACHEL LEYCO Filipino American Filmmaker | ActressRachel Leyco is an award-winning queer Filipino American multi-hyphenate filmmaker, actress, and content creator.  As an actress, she can be seen on numerous TV shows, such as Netflix's Atypical, BET's Games People Play, Peacock's Bel-Air, and NBC’s Chicago Fire.  Recently, she starred in the new holiday rom-com, Yuletide the Knot, and the new Tubi Original thriller, What Happens in Miami.Defying her family expectations and stereotypes, Rachel f*cked her comfort zone after high school and told her Mom that she was going to pursue acting and film school.  Growing up in a Christian household, she went to church every weekend where she was taught that homosexuality was wrong and a sin. Her biggest struggle was coming out and learning to accept herself.  In her early twenties, she f*cked that comfort zone and is proud to be living out her authentic self!  Margie and Rachel talk openly about their similar challenges in coming out.  Margie’s curious-self questions Rachel about labels like gay, queer, bisexual, pansexual and more.  As an advocate for mental health, Rachel discusses her struggles with depression and anxiety and shares some very helpful self-care tools. Rachel also gets into her acting career and how Margie’s class has inspired her to bring the joy into her auditions and, you guessed it, f*ck your comfort zone!

EP. 57 DR. SHERRYOb/Gyn, Author, and Health ExpertMargie f*cks her comfort zone with a candid conversation with Dr. Sheryl A. Ross, aka “Dr. Sherry.”  A passionate advocate for women’s health for over 25 years, Dr. Sherry is the author of She-ology: The Definitve Guide to Women’s Intimate Health, and She-ology, the she-quel, Let’s Continue the Conversation.  Her series “Lady Parts” on Sarah Hyland and Ellen’s digital network was nominated for the Critic’s Choice Real TV Awards.  In this episode, Margie and Dr. Sherry discuss questions like What do you call your vagina?  Do you know what’s down there?  Why are we so embarrassed? and What type of vibrator do you have?  No topic is off limits, as they touch on body shame, #MeToo, porn, trans and sexual identity, the abortion issue, politics, women’s rights, gay rights, self empowerment, you name it!    Twitter @DrSherylRossInstgram@drsherryrFacebook DrSherryRdrsherry.com

EP. 56 DR. ARLENE DRAKE, PhD, MFTPsychotherapist | AuthorMargie is excited to welcome her friend, Arlene Drake on the podcast.  A psychotherapist for over 40 years specializing in trauma recover, Dr. Arlene Drake is a pioneer in the field of adult survivors of childhood abuse.  She is the author of Carefrontation - Breaking Free From Childhood Trauma.  And…she happens to be a former actress, best known for her work on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.  Margie and Arlene have a spirited conversation about Arlene's book and the steps to repair the damage of your childhood and take care of your inner child.  Arlene speaks directly to the little kid inside each of us on this journey to healing.  

EP. 55 CHRIS SCHELLENGERActor | Model | Teacher | Drag QueenChris Schellenger is an actor, model and one of Margie's wonderful teachers.  He was a finalist on America’s Next Top Model and has acted in umpteen commercials and in such films as NY84, They Found Hell, Wineville and an upcoming feature (his first role in drag) which we can’t talk about since he signed an NDA.  Chris shares his experience of booking a self-tape with Paul Schrader (Taxi Driver) /Lindsay Lohan - in 2013, way before they became popular.  Chris talks about his love of the Margie Haber Studio, both as an actor and a teacher and how Margie plucked him out of her class to teach.  Margie was excited to hear about his recent role on the TV show, Hacks, where he lived the life of a drag queen.  Margie and Chris have an intimate, open discussion about Chris being fluid, the challenges of growing up dressing as a girl and some great advice to parents who may have a trans child. Chris ends the podcast validating men who have a strong feminine side or women who identify more male and how to embrace it and remove any shame around it.  

EP. 54 SALLY STEWARTActor“Ever since I’ve worked with you, I’ve either gotten a callback or booked."Sally, on working with MargieSally has been a professional actor for over 20 years.  She has guest-starred on such series as Bull, FBI Most Wanted, Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, The Sopranos and New York Undercover.  With roles from a judge to a lawyer to a victim, she has lived them all.  Sally shares what it is like to be cast as a co-star supporting the story rather than being the star.  She has also acted in theater and had the privilege of working opposite the legendary Ruby Dee.  Sally played Rose in August Wilson’s, Fence, directed by Broadway director, Marion McClinton.  Margie and Sally discuss the challenges of playing such a complicated character.Sally has created, written and produced a series called Pop Pairing.   Sally starts off with her Southern, American, Jamaican, New York City roots and her journey as an actress.  She shares her challenges as well as her fears.  Margie remarks on her amazing growth since starting her class a year ago.  Sally shares how it has changed her approach to acting by simplifying and being more specific with auditioning.   The podcast concludes with Sally’s advice for actors.