Actors, stunts, dancers... we are all "peak performers". Briana Bowley, a specialist in nervous system regulation for high performers, reveals how our fight-flight-freeze responses can either sabotage our efforts or become powerful allies in our creative journey.

When you'll understand why you freeze during that Brazilian jiu-jitsu sparring sessions or why you're drawn to action movies despite hating real-world violence, you might gain access to profound new insights about your own patterns and potential.

We explore the seemingly contradictory attraction many of us have to martial arts and action movies while being fundamentally non-violent people. Is it because survival is portrayed in such vivid ways? Is it about reclaiming power? Seeking the spark of uncertainty in monotonous lives? Or perhaps it's about creating those powerful "blended states" where challenge and safety coexist, allowing us to test our edges in controlled environments.

In this episode we learn that the body cannot distinguish between surviving through an experience or thriving through it and how the "minimal effective dose" concept helps performers achieve results without burning out.

One of Cindy’s key takeaways is how opportunities to "brag" about successes can reprogram nervous system patterns.

Ready to transform your relationship with performance, success, and the inevitable challenges of a creative career? Discover how understanding your nervous system patterns can help you approach your craft with greater self-awareness, efficiency, and compassion.

FREE QUIZ with Briana:

www.nsquiz.com

IG Host - Cindy Claes:

@cindy_claes

IG Guest - Briana Bowley

@brianabowley

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In this episode, comedy writer Sophie Estourgie (based in The Netherlands) shares her incredible story of winning a prestigious L.A. screenwriting competition and getting her script, “The B Word”, produced. Sophie reveals how a script she almost set aside, gathering dust, is now set to be produced in L.A., and she might even land one of the leading roles herself!

But that’s not all. Sophie is also working on a dark comedy titled “Somewhere Between Here and There”, about a ghost who shows up at her own wake. With a team of 8 actors, they are currently fundraising to bring this script to life—and they’ve even secured sponsorship - from a funeral home! (Yes, really!) Support their campaign by clicking the link in the description!

In this episode, host Cindy Claes and Sophie dive into writing, comedy, overcoming failures, and the process of turning ideas into reality - no matter the obstacles.

Whether you’re a writer, filmmaker, actor, or just someone who loves the behind-the-scenes magic of storytelling, this episode is filled with both practical insights and inspirational takeaways.

Crowdfunding link to support “Somewhere Between Here and There” and help bring this unique dark comedy to life:

https://www.voordekunst.nl/projecten/19048-somewhere-between-here-and-there-1

IG Short Film:

@somewherebtwnfilm

IG Host:

@cindy_claes

IG Guest:

@sophiestourgie

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In this episode, we explore a thought-provoking question: What would a movie look like if motherhood—or the lack of it—wasn't part of the script? Could it be a thriller, a rom-com, or even a western? These questions lead us into an engaging conversation with Mademoiselle Ginger, a French-American dancer, choreographer, and teacher based in London.

With her trademark orange hair and undeniable charisma, Ginger shares her transformative journey from professional dancer to creative powerhouse. At age 29, a mysterious inner ear problem led her into an eight-year battle with anxiety. She offers a visceral description of the physical manifestations of anxiety: "You're hot, you're bothered, you need to fiddle with your hair, you need to leave the room." Her words shatter many misconceptions about mental health.

Join us for this powerful conversation about creating a life on your own terms.

IG Cindy Claes

@cindy_claes

IG Guest Mademoiselle Ginger

@mademoiselle_ginger

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@cindy_claes

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Our host, action actress and filmmaker Cindy Claes, interviews UK-based action filmmaker Nathan Geering.

Nathan shares his incredible journey from breakdancer to award-winning action filmmaker, revealing how he choreographed real skydiving fight scenes, trained with Jackie Chan’s stunt team, and is now in the midst of producing an international feature film. His story is nothing short of mind-blowing. Highlights include:

• Winning over 30 awards for his short films
• Traveling the world to build an international action film network
• Training with industry legends, including members of the Jackie Chan stunt team
• Blending breaking, martial arts, and fire performance into original action sequences rarely seen in mainstream cinema
• Launching his feature film The Lock In, an international production shot across multiple countries
• Treating filmmaking as an ongoing practice of research and development—filming daily and using each project as a tool for growth

This episode is packed with inspiration, innovation, and real-world insights into the evolving world of action cinema.

IG of our guest Nathan Geering:

@rm_action_design

IG of host Cindy Claes:

@cindy_claes

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Cindy Claes - Host
@cindy_claes

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Our guest Derrick McManus, a former sniper and elite member of Australia's STAR Group, is coming back for a second episode! (We interviewed Derrick in Ep7 about how he got ambushed and got shot 14 times as a special elite police officer!)

Today Derrick is sharing how this incredible story of survival and resilience shaped his unique philosophy on "human durability". He travels the world supporting both individuals and companies, about maintaining optimal performance by anticipating obstacles and preparing for challenges.

Our conversation focuses on how these principles apply to Artists, Actors, Dancers, Filmmakers, working in an industry where so much is "up in the air". Discover how Derrick's experience in high-risk environments can translate to the unpredictable world of the arts.

How do we "bounce back" from setbacks?
How can we embrace failure as a tool for growth?
How can we have conversations about the worst case scenarios?
How do we strive long term in a high-pressure industry?

In this episode Derrick offers insights into the framework of "human durability". Let's explore the delicate balance between peak performance and sustainability.

Guest's Website and Email:
https://humandurability.com.au
derrick@derrickmcmanus.com

Guest's Facebook and LinkedIn:
Derrick McManus

IG Host - Cindy Claes (action actress and public speaker):

@cindy_claes

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Cindy Claes - Host
@cindy_claes

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@loudwhispervzw

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There is always that ONE episode you record, that you loooove, yet the sounds wasn't crisp. Oh Lord! Well... The content is waayyyy too fun not tone published, so forgive me for this minor technical issue :) You won't regret it!

Join us in this high-energy episode with Cindy Claes (action actress) and Simon Maestre (international actor from Barcelona), as we navigate the unpredictable world of comedy casting.

Simon shares details about an audition experience that kicked off with an unusual request. Instead of diving into a script, he focused on aligning himself with a high frequency wave-length. He got booked on a feature film surrounded by incredible comedy actors.

Cindy shares an amusing story, could it be her dog's adventures and a crumbling down love life that got her the casting? The Zoom call back gave her butterflies.
UPDATE: While production details are still to remain secret, we can now confirm that Cindy booked the comedy role after her Zoom call back!


In this episode, we also dig into:
• audition experiences and casting stories for comedy
• the importance of humour and vulnerability in self-presentations
• overcoming nerves during Zoom auditions
• navigating language barriers in the audition process
• the impact of physicality on performance
• the significance of building a supportive community
• celebrating success and sharing joyous moments with friends

IG Cindy Claes:
@cindy_claes

IG Simon Maestre:
@simon.maestre

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Cindy Claes - Host
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We start this new year with Cindy Claes (host). Let's dive into the transformative practices of journaling, visualisation, and meditation to help you reflect on the past year and set powerful intentions for the future. These exercises are tools that can be used whenever a reset is needed, or when you are transitioning between significant life chapters.

Take a notepad and pen, and don't hesitate to push the pause button to write down important journaling tasks!

Through a mix of personal insights and actionable practices, this episode guides you in:

• Reflecting on 2024: Acknowledging achievements, lessons learned, and embracing challenges.
• Journaling for Growth: Exploring the emotional and energetic layers of your experiences.
• Meditation for Clarity: Creating space to process and envision your next steps.
• Embodiment Practices: Grounding your intentions through physical and energetic integration.
• Future-Self Letters: Writing from the perspective of your future self to manifest desired experiences.
• Gratitude Practice: Cultivating appreciation for current blessings and the opportunities yet to come.

This episode offers tools and inspiration to close one chapter and confidently step into the next.

Follow Cindy Claes on Instagram:
@cindy_claes

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Cindy Claes - Host
@cindy_claes

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@loudwhispervzw

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What should actors post on Instagram? How can you have fun with it while attracting the attention of casting directors?

Kevin Silvergieter, a talented German-Canadian actor, initially made waves as an influencer with over 100K followers. However, he eventually craved privacy and simplicity, stepping back from the spotlight. Returning to social media as an actor, Kevin redefined his approach—prioritising craft and authenticity over the addictive chase for likes and shares.

When podcast host and action actress Cindy Claes discovered Kevin’s Instagram, she immediately recognised his versatile talent and unique ability to stand out. Is this the formula actors need to create eye-catching content for casting directors?

In this episode, Kevin shares his minimalist yet impactful content creation philosophy. He emphasizes crafting genuine, artistic posts that showcase your talent while staying true to your goals. This episode is packed with insights for actors and content creators!

IG Host:
@cindy_claes

IG Guest:
@kevin.silvergieter.actor

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Cindy Claes - Host
@cindy_claes

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@loudwhispervzw

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