Ever wondered how Joe Mantegna went from a high school audition for "West Side Story" to becoming a household name in the "Criminal Minds" franchise? In this episode, we explore Joe's career journey, his dedication to honoring his Italian heritage, and the role his Chicago-based restaurant played in his life. Listen as Joe recounts his early days, shares personal anecdotes about his family's connections in Italy, and reflects on his career milestones, and you get to hear how we met originally! ps. it's always about a movie.

You will love to hear about Joe's heartfelt commitment to supporting veterans and various charitable causes, influenced by his family's history and personal experiences. Joe speaks candidly about the emotional impact of participating in the Memorial Day concert in Washington D.C., especially post-9/11, and his advocacy for special needs individuals, inspired by a personal connection to autism. Through his stories, Joe emphasizes the significance of patriotism, the value of freedom, and the contributions of immigrants, highlighting the profound legacy of Italian Americans in the U.S.

In a lighter yet equally compelling segment, Joe shares his experiences portraying Italian-American characters, balancing stereotypical and positive roles. From voicing Fat Tony on The Simpsons to playing an FBI agent, Joe gives us an insider's view on representing his heritage in the media. We also dive into his unexpected venture into the tequila business and because my Show is also about tips for success, Joe offers invaluable advice on perseverance and passion in the entertainment industry, sharing personal anecdotes and professional wisdom that will inspire anyone dedicated to their craft.

all about Joe Mantegna- official site
http://www.joemantegna.com

About your Host- Alexia Melocchi

Buy My Book - An Insiders Secret: Mastering the Hollywood Path

Alexia Melocchi - Website

The Heart of Show Business - Website

Little Studio Films - Website

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Photography is an art. And if you think about it, film and television, is a series of shots in movement. I was honored to chat with Dan Winters, a legend in the world of professional photography who crafts narratives with the click of his shutter.
Winters has photographed public figures ranging from the Dalai Lama to President Barack Obama, Hollywood celebrities from Leonardo DiCaprio to Helen Mirren, and artistic luminaries from Jeff Koons to William Christenberry. In our heartfelt conversation, Dan imparts his artistic philosophy, detailing the intricacies of incorporating objects into his portraits to tell richer stories. He takes us behind the scenes of his meticulously planned shoots, including the awe-inspiring NASA launches, and reflects on his personal connections to his subjects, from shipyards to the vast expanse of space.

In the new Nat Geo Series "Photographer" Dan Winters episode, “Life is Once. Forever.,” has premiered at South by Southwest on March 11 and is available to stream on Disney Plus and Hulu.

Because I love getting to the "heart" of the arts, Dan opens up about the peaks and valleys of his journey with bipolar disorder. He talks candidly about the choice to remain anchored in the present, the pursuit of stability, and the indispensable role of his support network. Our exchange is not just about the images captured but the life lived behind the camera—a tale of art, ambition, and the courage to face one's own vulnerabilities.

All about Dan's work
https://danwintersphoto.com/BIOGRAPHY
See the trailer
https://youtu.be/KSCjIRdu1ZY?si=eICoO5zkKCmVf3Ww

About your Host- Alexia Melocchi

Buy My Book - An Insiders Secret: Mastering the Hollywood Path

Alexia Melocchi - Website

The Heart of Show Business - Website

Little Studio Films - Website

Shop Our Merchandise!

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Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Thanks for listening! Follow us on X, Instagram and Facebook and on the podcast's official site www.theheartofshowbusiness.com

Have you ever wondered what it's like to climb the ranks in Hollywood as a woman behind the camera? In my latest episode, I have an intimate conversation with the accomplished director Katt Shea, whose journey from actress to director is a testament to the power of female visionaries in show business. We delve into her transformation from bringing dark themes to life in films like "Poison Ivy" to her latest interest in heartwarming stories such as "Rescued by Ruby." Katt's experiences shed light on the unique challenges and triumphs of women in the director's chair, illustrating the diversity and resilience required to craft cinematic magic on modest budgets.

Picture this: an unexpected adventure in a strip club leads to a groundbreaking movie pitch and the birth of her directorial debut, "Strip to Kill." This episode peels back the curtain on the artistry found in the most unconventional places and how it can inspire unexpected storytelling opportunities. With anecdotes that range from persuasive plot twists to pets causing delightful mayhem, our discussion is a treasure trove of insights into the creative process and the importance of representing nuanced, authentic voices on screen.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, we explore the deeper connections that tie us all together. We share our journey towards a 'natural way of living' and how it's intertwined with our devotion to the arts and animal advocacy. We also touch on the emotional bonds we forge with our pets and the profound impact of love and attention on both human and animal lives. Wrapping up, we invite you to reflect on your own purpose and the ripples you create in the world as we strive to leave a lasting, positive mark through our creative endeavors. Join us on this soulful exploration that's more than just about making films—it's about the evolution of spirit and the stories that shape our lives.

All about Katt Shea (class info, credits, the works)
https://www.kattshea.com/about-us/


About your Host- Alexia Melocchi

Buy My Book - An Insiders Secret: Mastering the Hollywood Path

Alexia Melocchi - Website

The Heart of Show Business - Website

Little Studio Films - Website

Shop Our Merchandise!

Twitter

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Thanks for listening! Follow us on X, Instagram and Facebook and on the podcast's official site www.theheartofshowbusiness.com