We Welcome Wonderful Children's Author, Bracha Goetz!

Welcome to BizVox on the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast, where veteran actor-director Scott Leon Smith steps off the stage and straight into the world of small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits to build knowledge, spur productivity, and share a few laughs along the way.

In this larger-than-life episode, Scott welcomes Bracha Goetz, prolific author of nearly 50 illustrated children's books packed with important spiritual and life messages that help kids grow into happier, more resilient humans. Through her family-powered Growing IMPACT Publications (IMPACT = Important Messages for Parents And Children Together), Bracha turns heartfelt ideas into stories that live their unique life in the hearts of young readers everywhere!

What you'll hear in this episode:

• The delightful origin of IMPACT Publications and books like The Happiness Box, where a simple cardboard box becomes a powerful tool for teaching children to find joy within themselves, rewire their brains for gratitude, and develop essential happiness skills early—so they never have to play catch-up as adults.
• Bracha's inspiring author journey: from scribbling stories in a notebook while her young children played outside in Israel to landing her first publisher acceptance in just weeks, then teaming up with her family to launch their own publishing house on her 40th book and keep creative control, royalties, and impact where they belong.
• Golden, no-nonsense advice for entrepreneurs and creators on branding, consistency, and promotion: why doing what you truly enjoy (podcasts, school visits, one-on-one connections!) prevents burnout, how to divide tasks by passion within your team, turn every "no" or challenge into valuable feedback, and fill the internet with meaningful content that genuinely changes lives.

Whether you're a small business owner, aspiring author, parent, or creative ready to make your own powerful impact, this episode resonates with passionate craft, authenticity, rhythm, and human connection

Scott and Bracha's conversation is packed with practical wisdom, playful storytelling magic, and that unmistakable spirit that turns important messages into unforgettable experiences.

Ready for more? Hit subscribe right now to the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast on the MonsterVox YouTube channel or wherever you get your podcasts. New BizVox episodes drop regularly alongside Rustic Shakespeare, Dedicated to the Craft, The Unforgettable Voice, and the hilarious Albatross Café with Marty Merman. You won't want to miss a single minute!

And if you're an actor, artist, or creative hungry for quick lessons and artisitic validation, especially in this wild age of AI, join Scott Leon Smith's unique online community The Actor's Affirmation today: https://www.skool.com/the-actors-affirmation/about

Let's get to work!

Oberon, Titania & Puck Unleashed: Fairy Kingdom Chaos!

Welcome back to Rustic Shakespeare on the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast, where veteran actor-director Scott Leosn Smith steps off the stage and straight into the rehearsal room to share the craft, the comedy, and the pure theatrical joy of bringing the Bard's wildest dreams to life.

In this larger-than-life continuation of his Midsummer reminiscence, Scott reveals how he turned Shakespeare's fairy realm into something unique.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• How we empowered Titania as the true powerhouse of the fairy court, her zealous, obnoxious fairy entourage guarding a simple baby carriage as the magical changeling child, flipping the power dynamic with Oberon and turning "fairies skip hence" into a hilarious, full-on fairy beat-down that dodges any outdated baggage.
• The mischievous heart of the play: Puck as the real protagonist fixing Oberon's love-potion blunder, the fairy-human world collisions we wanted to explore, and the riotous Mechanicals scene where Puck turns Bottom's head into a donkey (complete with a practical headdress that let the laughs, and the language, shine in our big outdoor production).
• The glorious Act 5 payoff: a play-within-a-play staged side-by-side with the royals, a dreamy sleeping tableau for the lovers, Puck's spell that finally gives stubborn old Egeus his happy ending, and a cathartic curtain call that had the audience on its feet, because accessibility, joy, and seeing the obvious comedy gold are the real secrets to making Shakespeare feel fresh and fully-realized.

Whether you're an actor, director, designer, or simply a lover of the Bard, this episode crackles with the same passionate craft that makes every MonsterVox production feel electric. Scott's reflections are packed with practical directorial wisdom, playful world-building ideas, and that unmistakable larger-than-life spirit that turns stories into unforgettable experiences.

Ready for more? Hit subscribe right now to the MonsterVox YouTube channel or wherever you get your podcasts, new Rustic Shakespeare episodes drop regularly, alongside Dedicated to the Craft, The Unforgettable Voice, and the hilarious Albatross Café with Marty Merman. You won't want to miss a single moment of this audio folio!

And if you're an actor, artist, or creative hungry for affirmations, lessons, and challenges in the craft, especially in this wild age of technology and AI, join Scott Leon Smith's online community The Actor's Affirmation today: https://www.skool.com/the-actors-affirmation/about

Make good fortune guide thee… and we'll see you in the next episode!

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, podcasting & instructional videos.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC

Step into the gloriously unhinged world of The Albatross Cafe!

The rare, riotous segment that drops like a surprise comedy bomb every eight years or so (subscribe and thank your lucky stars when it finally hits your feed!).

Hosted by the ever-watchful Marty Merman from the fictional greasy spoon in Schleboygan, New Jersey, this episode is a wild ride through absurd people-watching, influencer roasting, and firearm-fueled matrimonial mayhem. It's chaotic, it's weird, it's hilariously inappropriate.

Here's what's on the menu this time around:

• People Watching Gone Motel Spy Mode: Marty spies through the classic walleye peephole at a sketchy motel, catching housekeeping weirdos hunting Pokémon, debating anime, and possibly running the world's slowest drug deal (or just really bad at their job). Bonus: a rock-hard muffin that could skip across a lake like a pro.
• Influensah with Esther Merman: Marty's mom dives into the bizarre world of winter salt-truck influencers, reviewing a 48-minute epic of spreading salt, swapping trailers, and early-morning coffee runs. Esther's deadpan commentary turns mundane road salting into accidental ASMR... until she gets unexpectedly hot and bothered and has to call for backup.
• Agnes Goes Shopping...for Firearms!: The beloved lunatic Agnes hits the gun shop with surprisingly solid (and unsettling) advice on shotguns, recoil, overpenetration, and why a sawed-off might be perfect for your double-wide. It all culminates in the most unhinged shotgun wedding ceremony ever officiated mid-segment, complete with objections met by a lead retort.

If you crave offbeat humor, eccentric characters, and comedy that veers gloriously into the absurd and slightly sinister, this episode of The Albatross Cafe will have you laughing out loud (and maybe checking your motel peephole next time). It's the perfect chaotic escape; don't miss it!

Subscribe to the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast from MonsterVox Productions right now so you never miss another drop of The Albatross Cafe, plus all the other wild segments that make this variety show an unpredictable delight. New episodes (and revamped old ones) are hitting YouTube too; no excuses left!

All persons in this podcast are fictional, and resemblance to any person living or dead is purely coincidental and not intended by the creator.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Discover the inspiring legacy of a 65+ year mission transforming lives through meaningful employment

In this eye-opening episode of BizVox on the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast, host Scott Leon Smith sits down with Angela Calzone, President and CEO of Inroads to Opportunities. Since 1959, this remarkable nonprofit in Union County, New Jersey, has been breaking barriers and creating pathways to meaningful, sustainable work for nearly 500 individuals with disabilities across central and northern New Jersey.

Angela, a serial entrepreneur turned passionate nonprofit leader, shares her unexpected journey from corporate boardrooms to "feeling at home" the moment she stepped into Inroads. Together, they explore how customized programs, from community job placements in retail, tech, food service, and beyond, to on-campus opportunities in packaging, janitorial, and food service...meet people exactly where they are.

What you'll hear:

• The founding vision and evolution: How a group of determined families sparked a movement that today offers 15+ programs, robust job coaching, mental health support, and highly individualized paths to employment and independence.
• Busting myths and revealing realities: Angela tackles common employer concerns head-on, sharing how hiring individuals with disabilities boosts loyalty, engagement, and team dynamics, often with fewer absences and greater integrity than many expect, backed by real-world success and ongoing education.
• Powerful, everyday triumphs: From foiling a robbery at a big-box store to quiet, life-changing milestones like building confidence over years, staying with an employer for decades, or simply thriving in "ordinary" jobs that deliver extraordinary fulfillment and purpose.

This conversation is packed with practical insights for business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about inclusion, and a reminder that the most dedicated workers often come from the most overlooked talent pools.

Don't miss Angela's warmth, wisdom, and the incredible stories that prove meaningful work changes everything. Hit play now and be inspired to rethink what true workforce strength looks like!

Love what you hear? Subscribe today to the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast for more empowering episodes of BizVox, celebrating small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits with knowledge, productivity tips, and plenty of laughs, plus all the other vibrant segments that make this variety show a touchstone for fresh perspectives and real impact.

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized content creation for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, podcasting & instructional videos.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Dive into this electrifying episode of The Unforgettable Voice!

Host Scott Leon Smith sits down with powerhouse singer-songwriter Glenda Benevides as she breathes fresh, feminine fire into the legendary gospel warning track "God's Gonna Cut You Down" the classic made iconic by Johnny Cash and covered by everyone from Marilyn Manson to Odetta.

Here are just a few soul-stirring highlights:

• A bold interpretation on the timeless cautionary tale, Glenda brings her authentic, powerful voice to deliver a poignant message about consequences, accountability, and the divine reckoning we all face in today's world.

• Raw insights on finding your authentic voice, From ditching imitations of legends to embracing your true self through passion, purpose, and relentless practice (including her work with a top vocal coach who trained Susan Boyle!).

• Real talk on the grind of a music career. Mentorship secrets for young singers/songwriters, Grammy nods, the power of community, writing your own path, and why authenticity always wins over formulaic fame.

Salvation in the Blues:

• This isn't just a conversation it's a wake-up call wrapped in incredible music, wisdom, and inspiration. Glenda even treats us to a spontaneous, heart-pounding snippet of her original song about change and unity!

• If you're craving music that moves you, stories that challenge you, and voices that refuse to be forgotten... this episode will leave you buzzing.

• Hit play now and let Glenda's unforgettable interpretation remind you: no matter what you do, someone's watching, and the truth always cuts through.

Love what you hear? Subscribe today so you never miss another mind-blowing installment of The Unforgettable Voice, or any of the other thrilling segments that make this show electric! Your next favorite voice is waiting... don't get cut down by missing out!

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, podcasts & instructional videos.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Unlock the Secrets of Living Your Role

Stop "acting" cold, tired, heartbroken, or furious. Start feeling it so deeply the audience forgets they're watching a play. In this insightful new episode of Dedicated to the Craft, host Scott Leon Smith pulls back the curtain on two powerhouse tools every actor needs : Sense Memory** and Emotion Memory.

No stuffy theory... just practical techniques you can use in your very next rehearsal or audition.

Here's what you'll walk away with:

• The enlightening Steppenwolf/Of Mice and Men story that proves sense memory can make a tiny black-box theatre feel like a dusty Depression-era road.
• Scott's hilarious (and slightly tragic) childhood coat disaster that still helps him freeze on command...plus how to dig up your own unbreakable sensory cues (even if you've never broken a leg on K2).
• The safe, healthy way to tap into real joy, rage, grief, or betrayal without dragging unresolved trauma into the rehearsal room (or turning the scene into your personal therapy session).

If you've ever delivered lines that still felt flat… if you want your work to hit that next level of truth… this episode is your cheat code.

Electric Secrets by MonsterVox Productions is your go-to variety podcast for bold stories, actionable insights, and diverse segments like Dedicated to the Craft that spark inspiration. From entrepreneurship to creative pursuits, every episode delivers fresh perspectives to fuel your creative life.

About Your Host:

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.

The Legal Stuff:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

Monstervox Productions, LLC

Get ready for an insightful episode of BizVox, a dynamic segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast by MonsterVox Productions! In "The Entrepreneur's Playbook," self-described 'serial entrepreneur' Kelvin Abrams pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in the wild world of business ownership. With 17 years of experience, a powerful book titled Get Uncomfortable or Change Course, and a no-nonsense approach, Kelvin delivers raw, relatable insights that will inspire and challenge aspiring entrepreneurs. Tune in to hear his engaging stories, practical advice, and unfiltered take on embracing the grind. This is an episode you can't miss if you're ready to turn your business dreams into reality!

Kelvin Abrams isn't just talking the talk...he's walked the entrepreneurial path through financial crashes, personal setbacks, and sleepless nights. His candid conversation with host Scott on BizVox will leave you motivated to tackle the challenges of entrepreneurship head-on. Whether you're a budding business owner or a seasoned pro, Kelvin's wisdom will resonate and push you to rethink what it means to "get uncomfortable."

• The Reality of "Getting Uncomfortable": Kelvin breaks down the gritty truth of entrepreneurship: missed vacations, dealing with bill collectors, and surviving without a paycheck. Learn why embracing discomfort is the key to success and how to know if it's time to "change course."
• Lessons from 17 Years in the Game: From a costly banking mistake to the power of mentorship, Kelvin shares the hard-won lessons he wishes he'd known when starting out, including why you need a CPA and business lawyer by your side.
• Building a Legacy of Impact: Discover the "learn, earn, return" philosophy and how Kelvin is paying it forward through free seminars and an online course based on his book.

Electric Secrets by MonsterVox Productions is your go-to variety podcast for bold stories, actionable insights, and diverse segments like BizVox that spark inspiration. From entrepreneurship to creative pursuits, every episode delivers fresh perspectives to fuel your ambitions. Subscribe now to catch every BizVox episode and explore the full range of Electric Secrets segments—your next big idea is waiting! Visit MonsterVoxProductions.com to learn how you can launch your own podcast with their expert team and get exclusive discounts. Don't wait! Join the Electric Secrets community and let your business voice roar!

About Your Host

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.

The Legal Stuff

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

Dive into Shakespeare's Enchanted Playground: Directing A Midsummer Night's Dream

Unlocking the Magic of Modern Shakespeare
Join host Scott Leon Smith on Rustic Shakespeare, the Bard-loving segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast, as he spills the beans on directing a fresh, inclusive take on A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Forget dusty old interpretations. Scott turns the spotlight on empowering women in the play, flipping sexism on its head with clever, hilarious tweaks that make the comedy sparkle for today's audiences.

From Warrior Queens to Wedding Woes: Bold Choices and Bardic Insights
Ever wondered how to make Hippolyta more than just arm candy for Theseus? Or how Hermia can scoff at outdated laws without missing a beat? Scott shares his directing secrets, blending mythology, humor, and 21st-century vibes to humanize these iconic characters. It's a rollicking ride through the first scene, where ancient rules get roasted and possibilities explode like fairy dust.

• Empowering Hippolyta: Discover how Scott transformed the near-silent Amazon queen into a scene-stealer who laughs at ridiculous laws, rips pages from ancient tomes, and hands power directly to Hermia—proving warrior women don't just stand by, they stir the pot.
• Theseus and Hippolyta's Dance Disaster: Laugh along as Scott reveals his inventive staging of the duke and queen fumbling through a wedding dance lesson, turning stoic rulers into clumsy, self-deluded warriors who think they're pros, complete with textual justifications that make the bard's words dance off the page.
• Hermia's Bold Stand and Male Mayhem: Hear how Hermia owns her destiny, claiming her "virgin patent" amid fuming fathers and sniping suitors, creating juicy conflicts that highlight the smartest women in Shakespeare's comedies and poke fun at outdated gender norms.

Ready to get hooked on Shakespeare's timeless fun with a modern twist? This episode is your ticket to a world where the Bard's playground is open to all: diverse casting, bold reinterpretations, and endless laughs await!

Don't miss out: hit play now and subscribe to the Electric Secrets variety podcast for more Rustic Shakespeare episodes diving deeper into "Midsummer" (next up: Oberon, Puck, and Titania's fairy antics!), plus gems like Dedicated to the Craft for acting secrets and The Unforgettable Voice for vocal icons.

Produced by MonsterVox Productions, it's your all-access pass to audio adventures that'll keep you coming back for more bardic brilliance!

The Legal Stuff

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or endorsement of its participants, nor of any companies or persons discussed therein. MonsterVox Productions is not responsible for any losses, damage or liabilities that may arise from the use of information contained in this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast are those of its participants and may not be those of any podcasting platform or hosting service utilized in its distribution.

MonsterVox Productions, LLC.

About Scott

Scott Leon Smith has worked as a professional actor and director for nearly 25 years in a variety of genres. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting at West Virginia University, where he studied under alumni of the prestigious American Conservatory in San Francisco. He honed his craft in Chicago as part of A Crew of Patches, a traveling theatre company that performed Shakespeare for students. Scott is CEO of Monstervox Productions, where he helps clients by providing specialized voice-over work for advertising, audiobooks, eLearning, & instructional videos.