The Constant Struggle

E96: Hunker Mode Activated

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 23:16:26 -0400

Happy New Year #Strugglies! A new year is upon us, and for your friendly neighbourhood podcast hosts; Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n), that means fresh new Lighthouse Words! (or "Words-of-the-Year.") YAY!!!!! Brie's frankly happy to be done with last year's word & Nick's new word has its very own mascot. Intrigued? Take a listen & check in with your trying-to-be-creative-in-this-busy-late-stage-capitalist-nightmare buddies as we update you on the Tank Fillers & of course the Struggles as we head into 2026 with space heaters to reignite the creative fire.

Take a listen & if you feel so inclined, let us know YOUR 2026 #WOTY!

We also want to take a moment and remember our dearly departed friend Robert Ariss Hills, whose art is our cover-image and whose humour and kindness we're grateful to remember always. Check back on this episode we recorded with Rob from his hospital room back in 2016.

Key Creative Tips:

"Pay attention to the world around you, look after yourselves and don't be a ..."

Nick's Update:

The Hobbit, amplified.

Brie's Update:

Sweet, sweet winter vacation sleep.

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E95: Chill with Moments of Crazy Intensity

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 22:13:04 -0400

So what’s next? That’s the question of the episode in this edition of #StrugglePod. You’ll have to tune in for a bit more context. Co-hosts Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n) are entering the dark, chilly, Canadian Winter, putting up their Ws where they can (dress for the job you want!) and bemoaning the struggles (passing out in a high school gymnasium,) along the way. Please enjoy this fun new episode from your favourite struggling siblings.

Key Creative Tips:

Reading is good. Get out in nature!

Nick's Update:

Uniqlo (sponsorship please?) & 2 books at the same time.

Brie's Update:

CoPs, Buffalo & Icarus

Special Shout Outs this week:

Dillon’s Distillery

Stratford’s Savour and Sip

Beau Chapeau

Mighty Niagara Film Fest

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E94: Party On, Struggle Later

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 21:31:25 -0300

It’s hard for co-hosts Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n), and brand new guest-host Michael Cervix, to get away from the excitement of the Blue Jays yes-anding baseball to chat creative projects, but nevertheless, they persist! Nick’s hunkering down to get some editing done, while squeezing out the last few moments of golf for the year and Brie’s getting more reps in and rehearsing a new show set in 1812 with a brand new cast and a refilled tank.

(Apologies for the crappy quality of Brie’s mic. She thought she was using her good one, but turns out, ooops.)

Question of the Episode: How are you getting ready for cold-weather creativity?

Key Creative Tips: Get inspired. Watch the Blue Jays. Use it (the moment) or lose it.

Nick's Update:

Baseball, Bob Dylan & Burning down social media.

Brie's Update:

So much tank-filling that her car’s starting to demand some time off. 1812 Improv coming JANUARY 2026.

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#PartyOn

E93 - Busy Summer Blues

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 13:12:51 -0300

Host Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n) reflect after respectively busy summers: one filled with parental obligations and the other with increased tourism volume. But with Back to School season comes a renewed sense of responsibility towards our creative endeavours, and in some cases, brand new projects and directions. Tune in to see where these creative siblings are headed next.

Key Creative Tips:

Social Media is dead.

Nick's Update:

Golf! Baseball! Parenting! Editing..?

Brie's Update:

Improv Burnout. (In recovery.)

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

E92 - Hamilton Fringe Preview: The Cast of What If? Keeps it Tight

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:38:22 -0300

Host Nick Watson (@fivestergram) graciously allows his co-host Brie and her cast-mates: Dan Dingwall, Dina Senior & Heather Eyman, on this episode to chat about their upcoming production at the Hamilton Fringe Festival: What If? Improvising Your Alternate Universe.

The improvised comedy premieres Thursday, July 17th at The Staircase Theatre in Hamilton, upstairs in the Brightroom, and features a number of talented (and some familiar to the podcast) storytellers: Lacie Victoria, Devin Bateson, Peter "Fry" Mitchell, Luz Buchanan, Natasha Boomer, Jo Anne Tacorda, Rhiannon Archer, & Kristi Boulton.

Tune in as the cast dig into the rehearsal process for an improvised Fringe production, shouting out to their absent cast-mates Bradley Doyle, David Lahti & Natasha Bromfield, and share their hopes for the festival which, for many of the cast, will be performing in their first ever Fringe Festival.

Take a listen to this fun group & we hope to see ya'll out there at the Fringe!

Key Creative Tips:

Keep it Tight.

Nick's Update:

No writing, no editing, no golf, only YouTube.

Brie's Update:

Please come to our Fringe show.

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E91 - The Double Mulligan

Wed, 14 May 2025 22:59:58 -0300

Hosts Nick (@fivestergram) & Brie Watson (@briewats0n) are in it pretty deep at the time this episode was recorded. With feelings of stagnation, injury and loss, our two humble hosts are really feeling the name of the podcast. Although recording in the same room for the first time since Covid has added a level of irreverence towards life that might just help them get back on track. The hosts review March and April, check in on their lighthouse words, constant struggles and tank fillers. Will the check in be enough to get back on the creative horse?

Key Creative Tips:

Coffee is good. -Honoré de Balzac

Nick’s Update:

Tank Fillers: Visiting the prettiest town in Ontario with family, Marc Maron live.

Struggle: Back on the YouTube, not editing.

Brie’s Update:

Tank fillers: Halifax (Travel) / Spontaneity Improv, The Americans (TV Show, Soviet spies, fun disguises,) Joel Plaskett in the vineyard to look forward to…

Struggles: Loss of a friend, Knee Injury, Tuesday Night Nobody

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E90 - The Call is Coming from Inside the Brain

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 18:34:29 -0300

Host Nick Watson (@fivestergram) is in a real pickle this episode as he and co-host Brie Watson (@briewats0n) find solutions to the doom scrolling rabbit hole that is US politics on YouTube. (There are two surprisingly easy solutions.) As the hosts review the second month of 2025, they continue to check in on their lighthouse words and constant struggles. It’s not all heavy though, each host brings up a number of tank fillers to help them get through that cold lil’ February. Like Conan hosting the Oscars, there is a beacon of hope!

Key Creative Tips:

“No thank you, not right now.” - thank you Headspace app.

Read short stories, see live theatre, watch good TV & great comedians like Maria Bamford.

Nick’s Update:

Tank Filler: Distractions: Ted Lasso and reading short stories.

Struggle: YouTube doom scrolling

Brie’s Update:

Tank fillers: Improv Niagara, Big Chick Energy, live theatre, tap dancing and cancelled plans.

Struggle: Jealousy, the structure to structure and winter driving.

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E89 - The Constant Meh

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 18:14:03 -0400

Hosts Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n) discuss their tank-fillers & drainers in the creative department of their ongoing struggle to make literature and comedy, (respectively.) They’re a month into 2025 and are checking in on the progress following their respective Lighthouse words. Are they still being guided in the right direction? Or did the longest January in history have other plans for our noble hosts?

Key Creative Tips:

Build boundaries to keep a creative mindset.

Find inspiration to keep moving forward.

Nick’s Update:

Tank Filler: Chapter-per-week

Struggle: Capitalism

Brie’s Update:

Tank fillers: Good improv & Joel Plaskett

Struggle: It’s friggin’ cold!

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E88 - Notebooks and Candles

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:45:31 -0400

Hosts Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n) kick off the new year by sticking to their new podcasting format, therefore so far crushing this New Year Pod Resolution. They’ve also carefully prepared their 2025 Lighthouse Word, or Word-of-the-Year and strongly recommend you do too!

Nick’s Update:

Tank Filler: Checkmarks

Struggle: The Demons

Brie’s Update:

Tank fillers: On holiday, there are too many to list!

Struggle: Negative self-talk, social media distractions.

RESOURCES:

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E87 - New Format on the Block

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 13:14:50 -0400

Hosts Nick Watson (@fivestergram) and Brie Watson (@briewats0n) are back after an unplanned hiatus to chat plans for the podcast going forward including new segments like: what’s filling the tank, what’s draining the bucket and what are we working on as 2024 comes to a close.

Nick's Update:

Finished “Infinite Jest”
No more contests until his 3 books are edited
Trying out new “Scrivener” software

Brie’s Update

Joined Assembly Improv team: P!sstank
Tuesday Night Improv coming to Spotlight in St. Catharines
Struggles: Balancing resources

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts on PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E86 - Zane Caplanksy: A Dish, a Dream and a Lotta Hustle

Wed, 08 May 2024 14:41:10 -0300

Our guest in this episode is mustard and smoked-meat wizard Zane Caplansky, founder of Caplanksy's Deli & purveyor of fine mustards. When Nick had the idea of interviewing a chef to discuss the artistic elements of food and cooking, Zane immediately came to mind. As it turns out, the struggles associated with balancing artisanal meats and mustards and attempting to find balance in life are huge. Six-figure-legal-fees huge.

And yet, Zane is probably the most optimistic and hopeful guests we've had the pleasure of speaking with - and in the current political climate, that doesn't seem so easy to do, right? So, grab some pickles, dip 'em in some tasty Caplansky mustard & enjoy our journey strugglin' on with Zane Caplanksy.

Your Creative Tips

Success & Failure, Cooking, Management, Work-Life Balance, Family

MORE ZANE CAPLANKSY

MORE PODCAVERN!

Nick's Update:

Not writing. :(

Brie's Update:

Improv Niagara celebrates 6 Years!
Fun at Bad Dog's Blockbuster Week
A great time at Oakville Improv

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E85 - Sanctus Editus! Setting Goals for 2024

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 12:16:09 -0300

The irony of this episode is that Nick's "Word of the Year" for 2024 is EDIT. And it took Brie four months to edit this dang file. Maybe EDIT should have been both our words!

NEVERTHELESS. Here we are. It's 2024. We're the happiest new members of PodCavern. And we're ready to set and tackle our goals in the struggly world of Arts & Entertainment in Canada for this new year. (Aware that we're already in the second quarter of the new year!)

Your Key Creative Tips:

Writing, Editing, Fringe Festivals, Sketch Comedy, Goal Setting, Acting

Nick's Update:

Word of the Year: EDIT
Writing and Editing Projects
Getting Back to Failure

Brie's Update:

Word(s) of the Season: Patience, Organization, Flow
Acting Level-Up
Big Life Changes

RESOURCES:

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Listen to more awesome podcasts at PodCavern.

#StruggleOn

E84 -Fight for the Fun with Jo Anne Tacorda

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 20:31:31 -0400

Jo Anne Tacorda is an actor, improviser, singer and one fifth of the popular sketch comedy troupe Big Chick Energy. In this episode of TCS, Brie and Nick find out what it was like to form a sketch troupe in the thick of Covid, what it takes to be part of the Hallmark "Christmasverse" and great tips along the way about embracing your inner-creative.

You're going to love Jo Anne's enthusiasm and it'll leave you "pregnant" with possibilities for new creative projects!

Your Creative Tips

Comedy, Improv, Acting, Teamwork

MORE JO ANNE TACORDA

Jo Anne's Instagram
Big Chick Energy's Website
Big Chick Energy on YouTube

Nick's Update:

Back struggles.

Brie's Update:

Shutting down for the Holidays.

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E83 - Korri Birch is Everywhere Improvised All at Once

Wed, 10 May 2023 14:11:36 -0300

***DON'T MISS "Good News Toronto" at Montreal Sketchfest FRI MAY 12th!***

Korri Birch is an actor, improviser, comedian, writer, producer, voice-over artist, puppeteer, teacher and self-proclaimed idiot based in Toronto. In this episode, Brie and Nick chat with Korri about his decision to stop producing, writing, and starring in the award-winning monthly news-themed live comedy show "Good News Toronto" and what's next for this multi-talented, ever-collaborative and exceptionally friendly performer.

It wouldn't be #StrugglePod if we didn't mention some of the difficulties faced by a day-job & the never-ending tasks associated with producing live comedy.

But overall, Korri isn't one to complain. He's one to create. Enjoy!

Your Creative Tips

Comedy, Writing, Producing, Improv, Acting, Stand-Up Comedy, Touring, Collaboration

MORE KORRI BIRCH

Korri's Website
Korri's Facebook
Korri's Twitter
Korri's Instagram
Everything Improvised Instagram

Brie's Updates

Detroit Women in Comedy Festival (May 19-20)
Hearsay at Hamilton Fringe (July 19-30)

Nick's Updates

Up to book 3 on preliminary edits.

#StruggleOn

E82: Own Your Dreams with Belynda Wilson Thomas

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 00:07:42 -0400

Belynda Thomas is an author of novels (Secrets and Silence, Secrets and Sorrow) and children's book (When Can We Get a Puppy,) a blogger, a visual artist, Toastmaster, wife, mother and consultant to Mississauga Writers Group. In this episode, Nick and Brie chat with Belynda about writing, self-publishing and owning your artistic dreams.

We chat about the difficulties making the time to practice your art, and how sometimes it becomes necessary to put things on hold as well as the strength in owning your artistic pursuits.

Your Creative Tips

Writing, Editing, Self-Publishing, Blogging, Writing Challenges, Public Speaking & Parenting.

MORE BELYNDA WILSON THOMAS:

Belynda's Blog
Belynda's LinkedIn
Belynda's Books
Mississauga Writers Group

Brie's Updates:

Catch Brie in Good News Toronto at Toronto Sketchfest.
Check out her new live shows in Hamilton at the Staircase Comedy Cabaret
Sign up for classes at Improv Niagara.

Nick's Updates:

Editing his short story.
Participating in the Mississauga Writers Group

E81: Two Birds, One Heather - Time Management for the Multitalented

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 21:17:14 -0400

Heather Eyman is a fitness coach and improviser among many other things and in this episode, we see the path Heather took to narrow down on what's important when there isn't enough time to do everything and when you're the kind of person who enjoys the abundance of what life has to offer.

We also ask her advice on how to fix Nick's darn back! Find out what kind of tips she offers Nick, and all of us when it comes to making deposits into your body bank. (That'll make more sense when you listen!)

Your Creative Tips

Health and Wellness, Fitness, Improv, Time Management

MORE HEATHER EYMAN:

Heather on Instagram
Heather's LinkedIn
Heather at Improv Niagara
Heather at Fit Collective

Brie's Updates:

Fingers crossed for Hearsay at Hamilton Fringe 2023. (Follow @brieanddave)

Nick's Updates:

Stay tuned for book edits and short stories to come!

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E80 -Bumps Along the Creative Way

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 23:04:48 -0300

Our first episode in over four months! Why the break? Well you'll just have to listen to the episode and find out. HA! Masters of the tease.

But really, it's a doozy of an episode where Brie & Nick dig deep into some real talk about physical and mental health, motivation, relocation and the whole thing gets a little vulnerable.

It's not all struggle though. There's life. There's travel. There's a mandatory Maron reference!

Take a listen & let us know if it resonates with your journey.

Your Key Creative Tips

Comedy, Writing, Improv, Stand-Up, Performing, Pain Management, Depression and Anxiety, Goals.

Brie's Update:

Don't miss the remount of End with a Kiss, this December in Hamilton!

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E79 - Comedian Mary Hynes’ Light, Love and Laughter

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:08:18 -0300

Chicago's Mary Hynes is an improviser, actor, instructor, stage manager and tall lady. In this episode, Mary reminds us of the importance of leaning into and really living our core values as performers, and human beings. She offers tremendous insight into navigating the unsure waters of the performance industry, including her signature Lean Back.

Playwriting Right with Playwright Evie Jones

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 14:31:04 -0300

All wordplay aside, this is a delightful and informative episode featuring Genevieve (Evie) Jones, playwright, actor, director and mom of Daphne. Evie’s located in the Niagara Region, and chats with Nick and Brie about starting out her artistic career in Niagara, spreading her wings beyond the peninsula and her parents, and the reason for her epic return.

Evie provides us with some deep insight into how the pandemic has been helpful to herself and many artists in finding focus, and the now existing struggle to maintain that focus as the world opens back up.

Writers will appreciate learning more about the process of writing and producing live plays in Canada and the evolution of the artist in motherhood.

Your Key Creative Tips:

Writing, Playwriting, Parenting, Theatre, Acting, Directing, Performing Arts in Niagara and Halifax.

Nick's Update:

Editing
Back pain.

Brie's Update:

Self-tapes galore!
Hamilton Fringe Show = Cast
Teaching a bunch at SC & IN

RESOURCES:

E77: Comedian Rhiannon Archer’s Educational Redemption

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 19:48:44 -0300

Rhiannon Archer is a stand-up comic and instructor, a mom of two little dudes and is currently in school training to become a therapist. In this episode Rhiannon chats with Nick and Brie about her formative years, her ADHD diagnosis, and how it impacted her education and career path and how that path has changed now that better resources are available to assist neurodivergent students.

We dive into Rhiannon’s stand-up comedy career and how she’s been able to keep at it while balancing frustrating hours in the television industry, and now with the demands of school, a part time job, a neurodivergent child and another with Autism, how it will look now that her priorities have shifted.

An amazing discussion about the impact our teachers have on our lives, how the lens of parenting changes our priorities and how amazing things are possible when we take risks and believe in ourselves.

Your Key Creative Tips:

Stand-Up Comedy, Parenting, Multi-tasking, ADHD, Neurodivergence, Education.

Nick's Update:

Submitted his submission to the Toronto Star Short Story competition
Editing his books.

Brie's Update:

Directing End with a Kiss at Hamilton Fringe 2022
Travelling to the East Coast this summer.
Lots of shows at Improv Niagara coming up.

RESOURCES:

Rhiannon’s Website: http://www.rhiannonarcher.com/

E76: A Circus Performer’s Year Off ft. Wellesley Robertson III

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:09:09 -0400

In this episode, Nick and Brie chat with Wellesley Robertson III; a circus-artist, breakdancer, improviser, puppeteer, actor… self proclaimed “Jack of all trades, master of none.” Wellesley has spent the better part of the last decade travelling the world performing with various theatrical productions, seemingly falling into one amazing opportunity after the next.

Join us on this exciting trip around the world and back as we chat with Wellesley about how he got into performing physical theatre, how he takes advantage of his “working vacations” and certainly, since it is an episode of #StrugglePod after all, some of the challenging elements of his performance career - staying connected to his home base of Toronto, navigating international travel and Covid-19 and other fascinating occurrences on his journey around the world again and again.

Fans of theatre, performing arts, circus, improv and TRAVEL will absolutely adore this episode with the ever-gracious, multi-talented Wellesley Robertson.

Your Key Creative Tips:

Performance, Theatre, Touring, Puppetry, Circus, Touring, Unions, Acting.

Nick's Update: Editing his Toronto Star Short Story competition submission.

Brie's Update: We didn’t get into it this episode, so just visit improvniagara.com for more info!

RESOURCES:

Robert Lepage: Needles & Opium promo

Follow Wellesley Robertson:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wellesley3rd

IG: https://www.instagram.com/wellesley3rd/

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E75: Staying Inspired with Megan Fraser

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 13:10:49 -0400

Happy New Year Strugglers!

We’re back with another great episode! This time, Nick & Brie chat with Toronto-based special effects make-up artist and instructor Megan Fraser. Megan takes us through her creative journey, starting in Calgary with papier mâché and glue all over her childhood bedroom floor to, probably a fairly similar floor-situation in present day - except with way more silicone fingers.

It wouldn’t be #StrugglePod if we didn’t chat about some of the more challenging elements of Megan’s artistic undertakings. It’s all part of the package to having a thriving career in film and television make-up.
Fans of comedy, make-up, politics and puppets will absolutely dig this episode with the immensely talented and creative Meg Fraser.

Your Key Creative Tips:
Make-Up, Special Effects make-up, Comedy, Stand-Up Comedy, Twitter, Satire Writing & Body Art

Nick's Update: Working on his Toronto Star Short Story competition submission.
Brie's Update: Gearing up to go back to teaching and performing in-person… again…

RESOURCES:

BOOK: Stats Canada: Satire on a National Scale

More from Megan Fraser:
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E74: 2021 in Review / Struggle Bus

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 23:41:54 -0400

In this Year in Review episode, Nick and Brie enjoy a host-cast chat about the year that was; what accomplishments we were able to achieve given the colossal mess of a year we all just collectively endured and what struggles (other than the colossal mess) we endured and attempted to overcome.

Thanks for listening this year pals, and feel free to share your wins from 2021 and your goals for 2022!

Your Key Creative Tips:

Writing, Editing, Gamification of work, Planning, Parenting, Improv, Acting, Travel, Pet ownership.

Nick's Update: Finished writing third book / NaNoWriMo - back to editing.

Brie's Update: Burger commercial, so long as she doesn’t get Covid.

RESOURCES:

For context, Brie worked as a tour guide at Vimy Ridge and McFarland House.
NaNoWriMo
100 Days of Improv
Watch Ainsi va Manu / Hogtown > Web Series in which Brie performed
Watch Brie’s episode of “An Unexpected Killer” (if you’re in the USA)
Alan Alda: If I Understood You, Would I Have this Look on my Face?
In the Soil Arts Festival

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E73 - Gary Rideout Jr.‘s Habitat for Comedy

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 01:01:35 -0300

Chances are if you've performed comedy in Toronto, you're likely one degree of separation from this episode's guest; Gary

Rideout Jr., owner of Toronto's famous Comedy Bar & Director of Business Development at The Second City in Toronto. This episode dives into Gary's timeline as a budding comedian-turned-business owner and tracks the many successes he's had along the way, the struggles that come with taking risks and putting yourself out there, as well as some truly great lessons learned along the way.

With the recent tease on social media announcing the opening of a second Comedy Bar location, on the Danforth, we're thrilled to get to chat with Gary about his journey in Toronto comedy and his excitement for all that's to come.

This is an episode for comedians and for fans of comedy. You'll see what it takes to create a space for an entire community of comedy artists; how to foster that community and the heights where it can lead.

KEY CREATIVE TIPS:

Comedy, Writing, Performance, Touring, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Accessibility.

Nick's Update:

Editing again, and prepping for NaNoWriMo

Brie's Update:

Niagara Falls Night of Art, Improv Fallout back at Mahtay Café, Writing Accountability Partner

RESOURCES

Comedy Bar

The Second City

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

#StruggleOn

E72 - Creating a Comedy Business with Alan Belerique

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 17:14:48 -0300

Alan Belerique (or Alan Bee as many know him) is a live comedy producer, actor, improviser and writer. His production company This Is Not TV has been creating live comedy content for Toronto audiences for the better part of a decade. His show “This is How We Duo” is making its return to live audiences on September 20th at Comedy Bar in Toronto.

Alan takes us on his journey through the world of comedy from his humble beginnings playing Goldilocks in elementary school, to a year spent in the Azores of Portugal, through to the many shows he’s produced both pre and post-Facebook. All throughout, a big part of Alan’s decisions have been based in creating space for community.

His experience is not without struggles and we’re reminded in this episode that there’s a reason they call this show business. We chat with him about finding balance, as Alan also runs his own company outside his career in comedy. It’s often tough to manage both businesses, making time for clients and customers to be happy in both worlds.

Actors, producers, creators and fans of Jason Momoa will greatly benefit from this episode with the hard-working and multi-talented Alan Belerique.

Key Creative Tips:

Producing, Comedy, Improv Comedy, Entrepreneurship, Community, Real Estate

Nick's Update: Editing again! Working on his horror novel.

Brie's Update: Improv Niagara’s live shows, and classes beginning in September. Also ghost tours!

RESOURCES:

E71 - How to Write When You Don't Feel Like Writing with Cathryn Naiker

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 17:08:11 -0300

Cathryn Naiker is a comedy writer, podcaster and stand-up comic. Join us as we explore the journey that took Cathryn from googling “How to Write Comedy?” to becoming a professional TV writer, most recently for the CBC’s upcoming comedy series “Son of a Critch” starring comedian and 22 Minutes veteran Mark Critch.

Cathryn gives us some seriously helpful insight in the biggest change she made from writing as a hobby to writing professionally and we chat about how the pandemic has held up some important progress in her stand-up career.

It wouldn’t be #StrugglePod if we didn’t chat about some of the more challenging elements of our guest’s journey; this time including the financial worries of moving back to Toronto and concerns about weight, health and physical fitness.

Aspiring and working writers, comedians and creatives of all kinds will hugely benefit from this interview with the super talented Cathryn Naiker.

Key Creative Tips:

Writing, Comedy, Stand-Up Comedy, Admin, Screenwriting, Mindset

Nick's Update: New Struggles = dog ownership! Old Struggles = writing.

Brie's Update: Improv Niagara wins 2021 Readers Choice Award for Best Live Theatre

RESOURCES:

E70 - Kirk McCullough on the Balance Between Money and Joy

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 01:14:41 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie celebrate the end of the school year with improviser, producer, and Kindergarten teacher Kirk McCullough. Kirk came into the Toronto improv community as one of the most organized show producers on the scene. One half of the improv duo Cadley Brooper, Kirk produces Duo Derby, one of the only live shows to seemingly seamlessly transition to an ideal online improv experience. Having studied at The Second City and now a member of the Assembly, Kirk is bringing positive, supportive and joyful vibes to the community, both online and off.

When it comes to splitting focus between teaching kids and improvising with grown-ups, balance is required, and we learn some of the challenges Kirk has faced along the way when it comes to making sure he’s putting his energy in the right places.

Teacher by day, performer by night. This episode answers the ultimate question: “HOW DOES SHE DO IT?”

Key Creative Tips:

Live / Online Comedy Show Producing, Improv, Teaching, Teaching Online, Finding Balance, Going with the Flow, LGBTQ Pride.

Nick's Update: No writing. Spending time with Kids.

Brie's Update: New Second City class on Hosting. Having enough students signed up to hold classes.

RESOURCES:

Cadley Brooper & Duo Derby

E69 - Juggling Your Passion with Patrick McDonald & Ryan Middledorf

Mon, 31 May 2021 01:10:57 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie sail the high seas of fun as they welcome podcasters Patrick McDonald & Ryan Middledorf of the Parrothead Podcast to the Struggle Zone. Patrick and Ryan were recently invited to join Radio Margaritaville as hosts of their own show! (Fins up, boys!) So, it goes without saying that the boys discuss Jimmy Buffett a little bit in this episode; their relationships with Bubba and the opportunities a Parrothead lifestyle has brought them.

But it's not ALL cheeseburgers in Paradise! We find out what it takes to run a podcast production company, and how quickly processes needed to be adapted with the arrival of a mandatory lockdown. We also find out about the challenges facing comedians living in LA during these difficult times - even performers who are "up for anything."

The struggle in this episode mainly involved pacing our own laughter because it was an incredibly goofy journey; but one filled with excellent insight on the creative process and the resilience of creatives amidst this global pandemic.

Key Creative Tips:

Podcasting, Comedy, Music, Podcast Production, Webseries, Getting gigs in LA, Jugging your Passion and your Responsibilities, Improv.

Nick's Update: Nothing.

Brie's Update: Lots of Teaching & New Online Improv Shows

RESOURCES:

E68 - Put Yourself into Your Work with Sean Browning

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 02:09:40 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie chat with science fiction writer Sean Browning, author of “I don’t Seem So Bright in a Well Lit Room” (Story Well Publishing.) We chat about Sean’s process; how he wrote his book and published it with a publishing house that wouldn’t have existed without him!

We learn about how Sean developed his artistry through music, improvisation and sketch comedy, and how that led to the story that would eventually become his first book.

And it wouldn’t be an episode of #StrugglePod if we didn’t talk about the struggles! We learn about the impact the pandemic has had on Sean’s writing, family-life and self-esteem.

An emotional episode filled with helpful insight for writers, and all creatives.

Key Creative Tips:

Writing, Science Fiction, Parenting, Publishing, Time Management, Mental Health, Comedy, Improv, Music, Playing in a Band, Sketch Comedy, Screenwriting, LGBTQ Allyship, Stay-at-Home Parenting.

Nick's Update: Editing.

Brie's Update: 100 Days of Improv. Now what?

RESOURCES:

E67- Caring for Your Community - with Coko Galore

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 01:11:11 -0300

Nick & Brie interview Coko Galore, Artistic & Managing Director of Bad Dog Theatre in Toronto. Though this year's events may have caused the Bad Dog to shut its doors, find out how Coko and her team made a new home for the community with Bad Dog Comedy TV. We ask Coko how she's managed to keep Bad Dog alive and thriving and more inclusive and accessible than ever.

We learn about how Coko found her place in comedy, how intensely she undertook training and how she finds family in uniting with other Black improvisers from across this continent.

Find out more about the struggles surrounding being in a key leadership position in Toronto's comedy community; and what's needed to push forward to find what's best for Bad Dog performers and audiences.

Key Creative Tips:

Improv, Improv Duos, Improv Training, Theatre Management, Community Leadership, Online Comedy Programming, BIPOC Experience in Improv, Accessibility in Theatre, Racism in the Workplace, and Celebrating Black and Asian voices.

Nick's Update: Filling his tank with fine HBO programming, while procrastinating on his edits.

Brie's Update: 100 Days of Improv & New Time Management system implementation to ensure more writing time!

RESOURCES:

E66 - How To Overcome Creative Atrophy with stand-up comic Ryan Dillon

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 01:08:31 -0400

In this episode, Nick & Brie interview stand-up comic Ryan Dillon, who before the lockdown, had big plans for a booked comedy tour of the East Coast of Canada. But when the pandemic hit, all those plans evaporated quickly. We ask Ryan about how a stand-up comic can cope and continue working on his craft in a time where live shows are no longer possible.

We learn about how Ryan got into comedy, about how he uses comedy to heal painful wounds from the past.

Find out more about Ryan’s writing process and some of the ways he manages audience expectations.

Key Creative Tips:

Writing, stand-up comedy, performance, starting out in Comedy, finding your Voice, performing on Zoom, performing with anxiety & depression, setting and achieving goals.

Nick's Update: Submitting his short story by mail to the Toronto Star’s short story competition.

Brie's Update: 100 Days of Improv & news from The Second City.

Thanks for listening.

Thinking about starting your own podcast? Click HERE to get one free month of hosting.

Follow Ryan Dillon on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & check out his comedy album Violently Nice!

#StruggleOn!

E65 -2020 Year in Review or Keep Your Horse Moving Forward

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 01:04:08 -0400

Find out about Nick Watson & Brie Watson's creative Year in Review in this host-cast edition of The Constant Struggle Podcast.

Nick chats about the processes he's put in place to streamline is writing, and how they've been helpful in other areas of his life.

Brie recaptures the year that was and starts 2021 off on the right foot with a new and exciting piece of news.

The episode is sponsored by Improv Niagara and don't forget to check out Apocalypse Chronicles if you're into spooky end-of-the world stories (I mean... now's the time!)

Let us know your goals for 2021 and remember #EatLocalandStruggleOn

E64 - Florian Francois' Hunt for the Great Ping Pong Table

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 16:31:01 -0400

FLORIAN FRANCOIS is a bilingual, dual citizen (France-Canada) actor, producer, writer & improviser. Florian spoke with Nick & Brie from the comfort of his home-recording closet about his journey working in a big marketing firm in Paris to hitchhiking across Canada, ultimately discovering his calling as an actor. We chat networking, collaboration and of course improv! We talk about Florian's main source of work during Covid and his hopes and challenges looking to the future. We discuss the struggles of feeling like an outsider when you're an immigrant in a country, especially in an industry with specific limitations when it comes to the way people speak. What we're left with is a highly quotable and very motivating chat about making the things you want to make.

Be sure to check out Florian's Bell Fibe TV series Rencontres & FOR SURE check out his music video for Le Mec du Grill from his slam poetry / hip hop star days.

Follow Florian on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & imdb.

#StruggleOn Strugglies!

E63 - Tuong La's Podwarts School of Podcraft & Poddery

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 12:55:06 -0400

TUONG LA is the creator of Podcavern podcast network. He's a podcaster extraordinaire, improviser, photographer, videographer, editor & new homeowner. Tuong chatted with Nick & Brie over Zoom about how the evolution of his first podcasting project (BroCoolNation) to his current podcast empire; PodCavern. We chat improv; his beginnings at the Improv Embassy in Ottawa, his move to the Making Box in Guelph and his palpable hatred of The Bat. We chat about the struggles of managing creative projects when your team isn't all on the same page, as well as the daunting task of self-promotion. Overall, it's a silly trek filled it LOLS along the way. Oh, and speaking of Trek, it'd be foolish if we didn't mention our own adventure on Tuong's podcast: RANKED: (Top 5 Science Fiction Technology.)

Be sure to check out Tuong's Podcavern. Your new favourite podcast may lie within!

Follow Podcavern's socials on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

Follow Tuong on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

#StruggleOn Strugglies!

E62 - Ophira Calof: Bubbling Like Champagne

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 17:26:42 -0300

OPHIRA CALOF is a multi-talented, multi-disciplined and multi-disabled comedian and performer based in Toronto, who's past productions "Generally Hospital" and "Literally Titanium" are challenging the status quo of disability and theatre. Ophira chatted with Brie and Nick over Zoom about her introduction to performance by way of opera, her transition to comedy thanks to a "multi-class discount" and her desire to #cripthescript wherever possible, making theatre more inclusive for both performers and patrons.

Don't miss Ophira's bi-weekly relaxed talk-show Slumber Party on Bad Dog TV.

You can Follow Ophira on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

#StruggleOn

E61 - The Struggly Days of Summer

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 00:28:28 -0300

NEW THEME SONG DAY! This is the first episode to feature our new, original theme song created for us by Dan Dingwall. Brie thinks it's great. But she's a little biased. Let us know what you think!

This episode was recorded in the beginning of Phase 2 of the re-opening period in Ontario, so technically Nick & Brie could have met up in person, but we're finding Zoom is just WAY more convenient! Just one of the many number of things we're learning during the global pandemic that's been having such a huge impact on our lives and the world in which we live. Hurray.

In the meantime, we chat progress. As in, are we making any? Is the art still happening? The answer MAY surprise you. Let's just say, "what's the point of being a comedian when you can't hear people laugh?"

E60 - Writing in the Time of Covid

Sun, 17 May 2020 21:34:03 -0300

***SPOILER ALERT*** If you haven't seen Jojo Rabbit, there's a pretty big spoiler in this episode. Skip ahead when we start talking about (around 28:30) it if you don't want to ruin a major detail about the film. Same with The Lighthouse, although I feel less so, given the nature of the spoiler.

It's Mother's Day in this second socially distanced episode of TCS and the siblings chat about their respective artistic projects. Nick's rebounded and back to editing his horror novel, and Brie found new scheduling techniques to get her back on track editing her original sitcom pilot and is going strong with online improv teaching and performance.

The two take time to address their respective passion-hobbies; golf & gardening - both of which have been affected by closures & that dang polar vortex (which has since gone away, hooray!)

We're chatting writing, journaling, editing & problem solving this episode. Cancelled travel plans, anxiety, alcohol consumption, introverts vs extroverts & all the hard-hitting questions like "Is it actually possible to use the bathroom at Tim Hortons right now?"

All this and more. Just #StruggleOn

E59 - The Socially Distant Struggle

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 19:18:32 -0300

IN THIS EPISODE, Nick and Brie catch up on the artistic struggles they're currently facing now that social distancing is in effect in Ontario to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Are they getting more work done now that they have more time on their hands because they aren't allowed to leave the house? Is the creative process abound with inspiration as this global pandemic permeates all aspects of daily life? Just how many episodes of Better Call Saul can Brie binge-watch? Tune in, find out and #StruggleOn.

E58 - Nick & Brie's 2019 Review

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 06:00:00 -0400

OK, so we're a little behind. But you know what? Better late than never, that's how the saying goes. In this REVAMPED episode of TCS, Nick & Brie go back to the roots of the podcast and chat sans guest. Why? It's just easier that way. AND we had lots of catching up to do. Mainly, we chatted about our accomplishments (NaNoWriMo) and epic failures (Welland) of 2019 and set our sights on 2020 to face some new fun creative challenges.

E57 - Grace Smith PhD : The Right Things for the Wrong Reasons

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 22:21:22 -0300

GRACE SMITH is a performer, an academic and a damn hard worker. When it comes to the theatre, she's performed it, studied it, written about it and taught it inside and out. She recently performed in her first Fringe Festival tour with her solo show: "Slow Dancing with Mediocre Boys," following the successful run of her ensemble revue "Generally Hospital" at last year's Toronto Fringe. She's fully launched herself into life post-post-grad.

Nick & Brie talk to Grace about education at its many levels - from high school to PhD and stop a few places along the way: horrific childhood bus rides, internal pressures, imposter syndrome, anxiety, loneliness and the struggle of comparison in the age of Instagram.

All throughout, Grace shows how to check in with yourself to make sure you're on the right track for the right reasons and how to move on with grace (see what I did there?) when what you've been doing no longer lines up with ever-evolving personal goals.

Connect with Grace on social:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Tour IG

Join the episode discussion on Facebook.

#StruggleOn

E56 - Don't You Forget About Dave (Lahti)

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 13:04:49 -0300

DAVID LAHTI is an actor, sketch comedian and wizard living in the heart of downtown Toronto. He's TCS host Brie's partner in their sketch troupe The Utilidors and a graduate of the Conservatory program at The Second City Training Centre.

Nick & Brie have a delightfully silly chat with Dave about his experience growing up in London, Ontario, his struggles finding a place in academia, his pursuit of acting by collaborating in independent films and how came to find comedy.

You'll laugh a bunch in this episode as Dave delights us with stories and struggles of his creative pursuits.

David Lahti: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

The Utilidors: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Join the Episode 56 Discussion on Facebook!

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E55 - Maddox Campbell: Blanket Fort Enthusiast

Sun, 26 May 2019 20:05:40 -0300

In Episode #55 of TCS, Brie & Nick chat with Maddox Campbell in Maddox' tent-fort studio in Toronto. MADDOX CAMPBELL (BCS) is an actor, improviser, podcaster, host & so much more. He tells us about his podcasts; Break a Wish, and now-completed Caverns & Comedians, his live shows; Perfect Match & The Know Show, his pub quiz Quizdamonium and his upcoming Toronto Fringe show The Resistance Improvised. He also tells us about the super cool shoot he did a few years back with METRIC. Maddox also opens up about his struggles being recognized as an actor and performer, when for so many of his projects his performing has to take a back-seat for the sake of the production. Join us on this super fun adventure with this VERY busy creator. Oh, and also...

Follow Maddox on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

Follow Break a Wish on Facebook & Twitter and at the Sonar Network.

Keep an eye out for The Resistance Improvised at Toronto Fringe this summer.

Thanks so much for listening & #StruggleOn!

E54 - Blow That S*#% Up with Kate Fenton

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0300

KATE FENTON is an actor, improviser, content creator, mom, among MANY OTHER things; most pertinent to our conversation however, is how, along with some co-conspirators, she created an IPF trailer for a new webseries called "Band Ladies" in which she, and her fellow book club members get fed up with the mundane and start a punk rock band together.

We talk to Kate about Band Ladies, her theatre company, improv (of course), being a mom and how important it is to appreciate the art you create, even if sometimes, its monetary value only amounts to peanuts.

Kate is a dedicated, hardworking, lovely human being, and we hope her webseries gets made because it sounds like a lot of fun! In the meantime, you can help by watching the trailer for Band Ladies TODAY, liking and sharing it with everyone you know!

BAND LADIES IPF TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOEC708NA2M

Band Ladies Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Kate's Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Website

Thanks so much for listening & #StruggleOn everybody!

E53 - Improv is the New Punk with Joe Amero

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0400

JOE AMERO is done with punk rock. His path has shifted quite a bit since his days in SOFA; he's now a social worker, a father of two, and a Hamiltonian. More importantly to the podcast, he's an improviser. You can find Joe improvising everywhere in Toronto! He trained at The Second City Training Centre, his troupe Pepperoni Pizza Cats perform monthly at the Social Capital Theatre, and with the Assembly, and he's now a Featured Player at the Bad Dog Comedy Theatre.

We talk to Joe about improv. About his love of improv, who he was before finding improv, and how much of an impact improv has had on his life. That's right, this is an improv episode. Buckle up.

Truly, Joe is an absolute delight of a human being, an incredibly funny guy and a tremendous improviser. It was wonderful to catch up with him in his basement in Hamilton, and we think that'll be obvious in this wonderful earhole adventure.

Follow Joe on the social networks below:

Pepperoni Pizza Cats on Facebook - Twitter - Instagram

Now #StruggleOn!

E52 - Deb Howey, Leading Lady

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 08:30:00 -0400

DEB HOWEY is much more than than the leading lady in Thorold Community Theatre's upcoming production of "Sin, Sex & the CIA," (a farce written by Michael & Susan Parker.) She's a mom of two with a full-time job, and has the know-how to run an entire stage production, on stage and behind-the-scenes.

In this episode, Deb talks to Nick & Brie about the process of putting on live theatre productions for the Thorold Community Theatre; the difficulties involved when all participants are volunteers, and the joys that arise out of these community-building endeavours.

She also gets us ready for TCT's next production and it sounds like a hoot! Sin, Sex & the CIA opens March 29th 2019 at the Trinity United Church in Thorold, ON & runs:

Friday, March 29 @ 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 30 @ 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, March 31 @ 2:00 p.m.
Friday, April 5 @ 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 6 @ 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, April 7 @ 2:00 p.m.
Friday, April 12 @ 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 13 @ 8:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available online soon, by clicking HERE!

Become a Fan of the Thorold Community Centre on Facebook.

Volunteer your awesome skills for TCT by clicking HERE!

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn.

E51 - Happy Twenty Nine-Tea!

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 22:39:44 -0400

Nick & Brie talk about their creative goals for the New Year. And about a few of their other goals, side-hustles and hobbies. Get on board, we're READY for 2019!

E50 - Be Kind to Yourself

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 23:25:38 -0300

Our 50th episode (YAY!) has a recurring through-line, the need to treat yourself kindly. Be it with mindfulness, therapy, legal weed or swimming in Lake Erie in October, Nick & Brie talk about the ways to take care of ourselves when we're not feeling our best. We also update everyone on our creative progresses and challenges and take a few fun departures along the way. Like to Golfton-sur-mer!

E49 - There's Always Struggles

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 22:29:05 -0300

Nick and Brie catch you up on the artistic goings on of the summer months. For Nick, it's trying to find the time to edit his latest project in between his kids' baseball games and his newfound obsession with golf. Brie's out and about with improv from Toronto to Niagara, with new projects hatching all over the place and old ones finally wrapping up. Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn everybody!

E48 - Erica Sherwood's Big FIGHT!

Mon, 21 May 2018 11:46:22 -0300

ERICA SHERWOOD is an actor and filmmaker from St. Catharines, Ontario who's latest project FIGHT! premieres next month on Jun 22nd with a fabulous red carpet screening event in the heart of downtown St. Catharines. Erica helped create the film, in which she also stars, produces, creates foley as well as MANY other things. Erica is a strong promoter of Niagara's growing film industry and hopes that with films like FIGHT along with her not-for-profit Jarico Films for Youth, which aims to build leadership skills and confidence through film for Niagara's youth, will help motivate filmakers to stay in Niagara to create and maintain sustainable careers in the film industry.

Erica takes us through the creation of FIGHT from its inception through to its current editing stage and fills us in with incredibly helpful knowledge about filmmaking, screenwriting and barenuckle boxing along the way.

Find out more about FIGHT and get your tickets today at http://fightfilm.ca/

Follow Erica on Instagram at @sherwood & @jaricofilms & @enpointecreative & @fightfilm

E47: Lacie Williamson & the Dunnville Renaissance

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 02:45:07 -0300

LACIE WILLIAMSON is a visual artist, comedian and event/community planner galore based in Dunnville, Ontario. Recorded in the back room of Lacie's LVW Creative Barracks, a building she purchased in Dunnville's historic downtown to create a space where she could paint and encourage others to create art, Lacie spoke to Nick & Brie about life as a full-time artist in a town with, shall we say, less than progressive views, politics & ideals.

Lacie takes us back to her roots in Dunnville, to her forray in journalism and event planning, into full-time artistry and the amazing achievements she made along the way that helped heal a community in great need of change. From producing an 11-hour rock concert at 15 years old for the town, to her contining work administrating the River Arts Festival, Lacie takes us on a journey into the history of Dunnville, her process as an artist and advocate for social change and her passion for comedy all while struggling to balance both artistic and financial freedom.

Listen to this interview with this incredible force of nature & follow her on her various social networks too!

Lacie Williamson

Instagram: @lacievdub

Twitter: @lacievdub

LVW Creative Barracks, Art Studio & Gallery

Facebook: LVWART

Instagram: @barracksbythegrand

Website: https://barracksbythegrand.ca/

E46: One Foot in the Forest with Jess Grant

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 00:15:08 -0400

JESS GRANT is an improviser and improv teacher living in Toronto. Originally from New Brunswick, Jess takes TCS on a journey through her discovery of improv through to her process of using physicality to inspire her amazing scenework along to how the rules of improv helped her through her treatment of Hogkin's lymphoma.

With a clean bill of health, she reflects on some of the clarity she discovered on her journey through cancer treatment and how overcoming it helped her face some of her other fears and self-doubts; like taking the big leap from improv to stand-up comedy and the written word!

This episode is enlightening and insightful and we're so happy to feature such an incredible human being on our show. Listen and be inspired by the incomparable Jess Grant.

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn

Brie & Nick

E45: Write Better with Clint Murphy

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 11:36:53 -0400

Clint Murphy is a sci-fi screenwriter living in Toronto with his wife and two daughters. He recently made it to the 2nd round in an HBO-sponsored one-hour original pilot contest at the Austin Film Festival, where he returned with a wealth of knowledge and insight he was happy to share with TCS.

Clint spoke to Nick and Brie about his writing and structure processes, about the art of pitching and the benefits of watching it firsthand, and he gave us a little preview into his exciting future projects, which lead to an insightful commentary about the representation of race on TV.

Clint has many awesome writing, producing and directing projects on the go and it doesn't look like he plans on slowing down anytime soon. His episode has everything you need to get the writer in you motivated and excited about tackling your new project (or projects!)

Check out Clint's Facebook Page or Follow him on Twitter to keep up with his awesome new projects!

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E44: The Constant Struggle's 2017 Year in Review

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 00:44:41 -0400

#SPOILER ALERT! In this episode, we talk a BUNCH about Star Wars : The Last Jedi. So if you haven't seen it yet, we're warning you ahead of time.

Everyone's saying 2017 was a garbage fire, and in many ways it was.

But creatively, for Nick and Brie, things seem to be headed in the opposite direction. Slowly, but surely we're seeing progress on our creative fronts. So this episode focuses on our creative accomplishments in 2017; be they finishing the first draft of a novel (WHAT!) or landing a dream job at comedy-Hogwarts (what-whaaat?)

We also chat about our struggly-creative goals for 2018. How can we keep this progress going?

Well, it certainly helps that you listening and engaging with us along the way, and we thank you ever so much for that. So take a few moments, celebrate your 2017 accomplishments and join us in continuing the creative struggle in 2018.

Be safe out there & #StruggleOn!

Nick & Brie

E43: Jason Loo - The Comic Artist Toronto Needs

Thu, 23 Nov 2017 00:46:40 -0400

JASON LOO is the creator of The Pitiful Human-Lizard, a working-class superhero defending the city of Toronto. Now in its' 16th issue and a part of the Chapterhouse, Jason talks to Nick and Brie about what it's like being a comic book artist in Toronto and creating a superhero who is quintessentially Canadian, all while maintaining a full-time job at a local library. He tells us about the recent onboarding of Chapterhouse's new Chief Creative Officer; Jay Baruchel (ever heard of him?) Jason also shines a light on the Canadian superhero renaissance we're currently seeing. Recorded at the Northern Belle bar (pardon the background noise,) this was a wonderful chat about comic books and Canada. After all, as Loo puts it: "We need to stop looking down south. Canada needs our own role models," of which Jason has now become one of our own.

Buy your copies of the Pitiful Human-Lizard at Chapterhouse.

Check out Jason on Twitter and The Pitiful Human-Lizard on Twitter & Facebook

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn!

Nick & Brie

Making It All About Janet Davidson

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 13:50:47 -0300

JANET DAVIDSON is an improvisor, actor & Second City instructor who's just gone on an epic journey of self-discovery to Vancouver and is returning to Toronto with a brand new perspective. Nick & Brie caught up with Janet one evening in the Second City Training Centre to find out more about Janet, her passion for both playing and teaching improv, her struggles with dyslexia and hypersensitivity, and her ongoing mission of raising up the women in the improv community. With chats about travel, mental health and the woes of online dating, you won't want to miss this episode that is ALL ABOUT JANET, even though she'd prefer it wasn't.

Follow Janet on Twitter: @MissJanetDavids

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn!

E41 - See Shit, Do Shit & Eat Shit with Moniquea Marion

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 13:45:22 -0300

MONIQUEA MARION is an improviser, character actor and YouTube creator embarking on a new project, in which she plans to travel across British Columbia on her motorcycle and document her experiences along the way in a webseries. Nick and Brie caught up with Moniquea shortly before leaving on this adventure to talk comedy, career and ego-checks. With fun chats along the way about foodieism, travel and real-talk about burn-outs, failures and our inability to celebrate achievements, it's a wild ride into Moniquea's creative journey you won't want to miss.

Follow Moniquea on her BC journey on Twitter: @moniqueamarion

Check out her incredible Moniquea Marion 365 project on YouTube

Thanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E40 - WatsonCast

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 12:14:13 -0300

It's a hostful episode, folks! This time, Brie interviews Nick about how his book is coming along as well as his new sugar/gluten-free lifestyle and Nick interviews Brie about how she just LEFT HER JOB FOR A YEAR to pursue her comedy FULL TIME! So yeah... lots of ground to cover.

Tune in and check in with the hosts of the Constant Struggle's constant struggles!

E39 : Dina Senior: Daytime Vampire

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 13:00:46 -0300

DINA SENIOR: Improviser, Actor, Voice-Actor, Improv Teacher, Daytime Vampire.

DINA talks to Nick and Brie about being a performer in the Niagara Region and the plethora of opportunities that exist in the thriving community theatre scene. She talks about her struggles finding the time to realise her creative goals while juggling a full-time job as well as her side-businesses in fermented health food (like kombucha,) & soap-making. Dina's also jazzed about her latest project; a new improv group called "Niagara Improv" with monthly shows in the Niagara Region.

Find out more about Niagara Improv on Facebook: Niagara Improv

Follow Dina on Instagram: @thebathbombshell

Thanks for listening &

#StruggleOn

E38: Comedy Cramming with Camille Côté

Thu, 25 May 2017 11:05:12 -0300

CAMILLE CÔTÉ talks to Nick & Brie about finding her voice in stand-up comedy, her style of writing as well as her experiences in the Toronto comedy scene. She opens up about a heckler who attacked her personal values at a Hamilton club and dishes about the inside scoop working in a hair salon to pay the bills and to balance her life as a hustling stand-up comic.

Follow Camille on Instagram: @coteandscarf

E37: BAXO & the Aluminati

Tue, 25 Apr 2017 08:30:00 -0300

BAXO (visual artist) talks to Nick & Brie about his signature artistic style "Aluminism"; how he discovered it and how he creates masterful pieces that look vastly different depending on how it's hit by the light. He also talks about what it's like to be an artist in Welland and the Niagara Region, where a thriving arts community is growing as well as the balance of art and lifestyle.

#StruggleOn

E36 - Matt Schmid Wants to Win You Over

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 10:42:24 -0300

In our latest episode, we chat with Matthew Shmid, all the way from Philedelphia, PA! Matt was in Toronto recently for the Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival and we caught up with him to chat about some of the #struggles involved with being sketch comedy writer and performer in the USA.

We discover how Matt came to comedy performance; his slew of bizarre and sometimes abusive side hussles, and the cost of traveling around the country performing.

We also find out what it's like to be in a sketch duo / romantic duo in The Incredible Shrinking Matt & Jaquie.

And we also unearth Matt's love of our great Canadian sketch forefathers; the Kids in the Hall.

Tune in & enjoy our episode with our first "designated American!"

xoxo

Brie & Nick

E35 - Live from Sketchfest with Vance Banzo & Dave Barclay

Sun, 12 Mar 2017 14:34:31 -0300

This edition of TCS was recorded LIVE at the Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival and featured an interview with emerging sketch comedian Vance Banzo & 10-year veteran of the scene, Dave Barclay.

We talk about the #struggles involved all throughout a sketch comedian's journey. Or at least, the first 10 years of it.

E34: Always Be Juggling with Candace Meeks

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 14:59:27 -0400

In this episode, we chat with the lovely and talented Candace Meeks; improviser, sketch comedian & contributor to many other creative projects, like two webseries & multiple other comedy projects.

Candace talks to us about the difficulties in balancing many projects, a day job, relationships all while trying to figure out what makes her happy.

Keep an eye out for her latest monthly serialized improv show: Quadruple Mountain

Listeners in the US can check out her sketch show LOL LOL Land at the Orlando Fringe Festival in April.

Follow Candace on Twitter: @bettyimprov

E33: Float On with Allison Dore

Tue, 24 Jan 2017 10:45:32 -0400

In this episode, we chat with comedian & radio host Allison Dore (Ward & Al, SiriusXM Canada) about her struggles navigating and overcoming addiction & depression and we chat career choices (acting, stand-up comedy & radio.)

We discuss healthy ways of battling depression, including our favourite meditation apps and tools for self-care.

We also go into a bit of a sermon about Canadian television, stand-up comedy and our mutual affection for the TV show Newsradio.

Check it out!

Follow Allison on Twitter: @allisondore | Ward & Al: @WardandAl

Check out Ward & Al on SiriusXM Canada on Channel 167 - Canada Talks: http://wardandal.com/

Download Allison's podcast "Digging In" on iTunes

#StruggleOn

E32 - Tyler Morgan's Pie Fingers

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 09:17:35 -0400

This episode features an interview with children's author, sketch comedian and improviser Tyler K Morgan. We talk about his book, "The Big Ball of Mud," his struggles with acceptance, the difficulties surrounding collaboration and the problems of being spread too thin.

We also take a look into Tyler's Winnipeg origin story, his move to the big city of Toronto for comedy and acting, and his recent forray into producing.

A super cool episode with a genuiniely nice dude, check it out & #StruggleOn.

Tyler K Morgan on Twitter:@TylerKMorgan

E31: 2016 - Year in Review

Tue, 27 Dec 2016 22:19:19 -0400

2016 has been quite the year! Looking back on it, we discover it may not have been as bad as everyone's saying it is. At least, not for these two #strugglas. We were published, saw the birth and survival of new shows and projects, and things seem to be looking up for next year.

Take a listen and let us know what you've got in store for 2017.

xoxo

Brie & Nick

#StruggleOn

E30: Ned Petrie's Comedy Patchwork

Fri, 25 Nov 2016 01:15:05 -0400

In this episode, Nick & Brie chat with comedian, writer & voice-actor Ned Petrie about the voice-work he's done for some awesome animated shows, his many writing projects, and some of the crappy gigs he had to take when he was starting out in the biz. Everything added up together makes up his comedy patchwork; a way to sustain oneself as an artist / comedian & to keep yourself busy!

Ned's originally from Cleveland, so you're dang right we talk about the election with him.

Tune in for lots of laughs & find out more about our good buddy Ned!

Follow Ned's adventures on Twitter: @NedPetrie

E29 - Alanna McConnell: All About the Wood

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 11:10:17 -0300

In this episode, we chat with Alannah McConnell; a woman of many (hard) hats. We met Alanna while she was a tech at the famous Comedy Bar in Toronto, but while chatting with her, we found out she's a woman of many more talents than finding that perfect at the blow of your improv set.
Take a listen and find out about her work at Canadian Stage, her building projects as well as a sneak peak into some of Toronto's newest interactive theatre.
Follow Alanna's adventures on Twitter: @mcconnellalanna

E28: Hot Showers & Cold Fish with MARC HALLWORTH

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 00:17:21 -0300

Our latest episode is a chat with sketch, stand-up and improv comedian Marc Hallworth as we explore the struggles involved with finding just how little you can survive off in order to pursue your passion.

Marc talks his night and day switches from Bully to Theatre Actor, and from Engineer to Comedian.

Join us as we navigate the muddy waters of relationships, both romantic and professional with a little insight on what it takes to keep a troupe like Vest of Friends going for 6 years!

Follow Marc on Twitter: @hallworthmarc & join him at Comedy Bar:

November 6th: Drop & Give me 20
November 10th: Vest Show in Town#StruggleOn

E27 - Immediate Medium

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 11:31:15 -0300

A host-cast edition of The Constant Struggle where Nick and Brie catch up one-on-one for the first time since January.
One of Nick's stories was published in a book! Brie's headed to Boston!
So many updates & so much fun. #StruggleOn, everyone!

E26: Rob Hills' Perspective

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 01:44:40 -0300

Nick and Brie went to the Providence Rehab Facility to visit improviser and graphic artist Robert Ariss Hills, designer of our logo, and a great friend of Brie's.
Almost two weeks ago, Rob suffered a massive stroke. He still can't move the left side of his body. But is able to make Nick and Brie howl with laughter with talk of heavy metal music, Arnold Palmers and life inside the hospital.
Take a listen to this beautiful episode with our very dear friend, whom we hope recovers VERY quickly and is up walking again VERY soon (because Brie really needs to book him on the Monday night Humber shows.)
xoxoxo Get well soon Rob!
Brie & Nick #StruggleOn

E25 - Getting Odd with Holly & Alli

Tue, 05 Jul 2016 08:00:00 -0300

In our latest episode, we chat with Holly Wyder and Allison Harris, writers & actors of the Fringe play "Getting Odd". With Fringe in full-swing here in Toronto, we find out about the Fringe play writing process, long-distance writing partnerships, the importance of a good team.
We find out about this team's background in musical theatre & chat about their future performing as a duo.
We talk about some of the Fringe shows we've seen to date, some of the struggles Fringe artists and comedians face (like flyering, ick!), but most importantly, we talk about "Getting Odd."
Getting Odd is a play about two women stuck in a cabin in the woods. One has been publicly shamed and ran away from society. She'd been gone three years when the other comes to find her.
Find out more about this wonderful work of theatre by listening in, and more importantly GO SEE THE SHOW:
Director: Emma Ferrante Written by: Allison Harris and Holly Wyder
Fight Choreographer: Erin Eldershaw
Dramaturg: Ryan Hughes
Stage Manager: Phoebe Elisha Holst
Lighting Designer: Chin Palipane
Sound Designer: Glen McCann
Poster Design: Shane Patrick McClurg
#StruggleOn everybody!

E24 - The Director: Laura Anne "Multi-Hat" Harris

Tue, 07 Jun 2016 23:41:12 -0300

Nick and Brie chat with theatre artist Laura Anne Harris about playwriting, solo-performance and writing and directing Fringe productions; from her first Fringe hit "Pitch Blonde" to plans for her newest production in the works.
She gives some Fringe tips and dishes on her favourite Fringe Festivals in the country. Super approrpriate as we go into Summer Fringe Season!
We chat about what it's like being a West-Coaster living in Toronto and about her upcoming move to Syracuse, NY. The importance of family and the sacrifices we make to be with the ones we love.
Oh also, there's a pretty sick Welland mention in there.
Struggle On everybody!

E23 - Find Your Turnip with NATASHA BOOMER

Thu, 19 May 2016 13:55:00 -0300

Tuesday was an epic day for the improv community in Toronto. The end of an Era. The last Wheel of Improv ever. We were lucky enough to chat with the creator of Wheel, Natasha Boomer, about closing out this chapter of her life and about what comes next.
We find out about her McDonalds-fueld pre-performance life, her introduction to improv, playwriting and the eventual creation of the Wheel. We chat about her healing journey and her interest in alternative medicine.
And of course, we talk about her upcoming one-woman show "All Fired Up" which takes place:
Saturday, May 28 @ the SOULO Festival (Red Sandcastle Theatre) AND
From May 31 - June 5 @ Betty's (along with the remounted improv show STUCK)

E22 - Writing is Good! with Luke Coles

Tue, 03 May 2016 03:00:00 -0300

In Episode 22, Nick and Brie chat with screenwriter Luke Coles about his writing process, his "struggle-job" (which is actually pretty cool) and the importance of spirituality in writing.
We talk about the importance of finding one's voice, being honest and finding your POV and we learn about an important teacher who helped Luke get and stay motivated.
We tackle the issue of addiction as Luke shares his story about how writing helped his sobriety and that ultimately, writers write and writing is good!

Follow Luke on Twitter: @LukeColes1

E21 - Bears, Balls & Parallel Thinking with Sharilyn Johnson

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 13:38:59 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie talk with author and comedian Sharilyn Johnson. She chats about her time as a comedy reporter and her shift towards more creative goals, which include writing, improv and overcoming her anxieties around clown.

We discuss the issue of parallel thinking after the idea for her recent parody of The Producers was upstaged by Jimmy Kimmel's show.

And of course, we chat about Colbert fandom and the huge undertaking she took, writing a book devoted entirely to The Colbert Report: "Bears & Balls: The Colbert Report A-Z"

Tune in & #StruggleOn everybody!
Follow Sharilyn on Twitter @thirdbeat Buy her book TODAY: http://www.colbertfanguide.com/

E20 - Catherine McCormick's Big Break... Maybe...

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 13:02:28 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie chat with comedian Catherine McCormick, who's recently been invited to move to Los Angeles to work on a could-be huge comedy TV pilot. Find out how she got it, how she got into comedy, and why it was finally time to consciously uncouple from her day job.
#StruggleOn & follow her on Twitter: @McCormCorp

E19 - Valentine's Pod: The Nugget Tucker

Sun, 14 Feb 2016 16:21:09 -0400

In this episode, Nick and Brie chat with their respective significant others: Kathryn & Dan and chat about the various struggles associated with being partnered up with a struggling artist. Sound like a fun idea? Only one way to find out!
Connect with us on Twitter @strugglepod & #StruggleOn

E18 - Gillian English Won't Back Down

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 00:33:38 -0400

In this episode, siblings Nick and Brie Watson chat with actor and storyteller Gillian English about her upcoming tour of the Australian Fringe Festival circuit with her two one-woman shows: "Drag Queen Stole my Dress" and "Get Around Me".
We talk to Gillian about her love of Shakespeare, her theatrical education and her encounter with Big Bang Theory star Jim Parsons. In a discussion about Gillian's storytelling, we learn about a previous trip to Australia, where she was sexually assaulted while representing Team Canada at the Australian Rules Football International Cup. We discuss the prevalence of sexual assault in sport and other domains, the damaging effects of language, and how when all is said and done, Gillian English won't back down.
Follow Gillian on Twitter: @Gillian_EnglishThanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E17 - Frosty Biscuits

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 01:56:14 -0400

Nick & Brie check in with their creative projects now that the Holidays are over and we've moved into, what Nick calls, "short story season." He's got a story on the go, and he gives us a sneak peak into the plot and process and finding out the story's main conflict.
Meanwhile, it's a new year, and Brie's got two brand new show formats coming out, and a comedy show on the horizon tackling mental health issues. Also, she tries, rather incoherently, to explain a Harold to a relatively new improviser.
Plug your ears in and #StruggleOn!

E16 - A New York Dave of Mind w/ David Tichauer

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 23:38:13 -0400

In this episode Nick & Brie chat with sketch writer & improviser Dave Tichauer who recently made the big move from Toronto to New York in pursuit of a career in comedy writing.
Dave compares his training at The Second City with New York's UCB. We talk about his work in Canadian Comedy Award nominated troupe Shoeless & his CBC radio pilot with writing partner Ned Petrie.
We also go into some very deep and important information about Alfred Hitchcock's films, The Olive Garden and a significant moment in US History.
Follow Dave on Twitter at: @DavidTichauerThanks for listening & #StruggleOn

E15 - No Bitch w/ Daphney Joseph

Sun, 13 Dec 2015 23:35:16 -0400

In this episode we chat with improviser Daphney Joseph about her journey into the Toronto comedy scene from Montreal, where she grew up. We talk about performing in French and English and the places she's found to do both here in city, like Les Improbables and le Club des Marteaux.
We chat about the difficulties managing your time when balancing three jobs, rehearsals and performances, about her venture into stand-up comedy and certainly about Coko & Daphney, her popular improv duo coached by Matt Folliott.
Follow Daphney on Twitter @DaphneyisJoseph.Follow Coko & Daphney on Twitter @CokoAndDaphney & on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/cokoanddaphney/?fref=ts
Thanks for listening!

E14 - The Constant Happy Jam

Wed, 02 Dec 2015 21:06:17 -0400

Nick and Brie's regular check-in where we talk about the various progress we've been having and setbacks with our various creative projects.
Nick's overcoming a recent writing draught and Brie's dealing with the difficulties of Winter's constant darkness.
By the way, the Keanu Reeves movie we were talking about is called JOHN WICK. We couldn't remember in the episode, but we've since done our research.
And yet, they still find time to talk about great comedy, basketball and of course, the upcoming Holiday Season.

In Real Life with Alex Wong

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 00:21:00 -0400

In this episode, Nick and Brie talk to Toronto actor and improviser Alex Wong from the upcoming webseries "IRL The Series," which currently received its funding via a successful Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign.
We talk to Alex about his experience working on the webseries that incorporated beat-prov-style development, his history accepting gigs on Craigslist, which he does NOT recommend and how he's big in Germany!
To take a look at his work, follow Alex on Twitter @LOLalexwong and www.facebook.com/IRLtheSeries/

E12 - Follow Your Passion with Dale Wells

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 18:56:38 -0400

In this episode, we talk to Dale Wells, half of the Toronto Dandies, and creator of Holodeck Follies, a monthly Star Trek-themed variety show that was featured live at this summer's past FanExpo.
With Dale, we chat about his return to improv, his love of all things geek, family, day jobs and following your passion.

Check out The Dandies & Holodeck Follies at https://improvdandies.wordpress.com/ or on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torontodandies/Twitter: @TorontoDandiesInstagram: ImprovDandies
Laugh Long & #StruggleOn

E11 - Feedback Fun

Sat, 24 Oct 2015 18:58:26 -0300

In this episode, Nick gets feedback on his first script, which brings him to the a-ha moment that will take him through his next draft. Brie's been a busy beaver with the Big City Improv Festival and starting a brand-new sketch comedy troupe.
Nick had a birthday, which means it was time for him to review all this goals and plans from last year according to the nerdist way-of-life.
Brie gets training with 30 Rock's Scott Adsit.
And of course, we talk about the Blue Jays because we recorded it before yesterday happened.
Thanks for listening and #StruggleOn!

E10 - Hurricast with Ryan Hughes

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 19:25:06 -0300

In this episode, Nick & Brie chat with actor, writer & improvisor Ryan Hughes about some of the struggles he's currently facing in the pursuit of his art.
Ryan speaks of a few pros and cons of the day job, and what happens when it's gone. He discusses issues of confidence and mental health. We also delve into a deep discussion about women in comedy and *~*GASP*~* even feminism!
Be sure to check Ryan out on Twitter @ryanfhughes & his improv troupe Peggy Molson @peggymolson
Peggy Molson are competing in the Big City Improv Festival's "TKO" tournament. Their semi-final set is at Comedy Bar on Tues. Oct. 13th @ 8:00 PM. Go check 'em out if you're in Toronto.

E09 - Summer's End

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 23:28:58 -0300

Well kids, summer's over and with that brings a whole new world of struggles, but not without mentioning the break we took from them during the warm months to relax and refuel the tank.
In this episode, Nick talks about his trip to Chicago, IL with his buddies and Brie mentions her voyage to Halifax, Nova Scotia for the Atlantic Fringe Fest. Both reference their respective cities' great garlic-bread-type products.
We discuss new and ongoing projects and how to jump back into them now that the colder months are upon us.

BTW: Nick's Instagram is: https://instagram.com/fivestergram/& this is how to properly do the Shakespeare: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7BQgGzXAb4

E08 - Crime Doesn't Care About Pants

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 16:09:45 -0300

In this episode, Nick & Brie explore good techniques to EDIT your writing, how to refuel your artistic tank & we give a few shout outs to other podcasts we've been checking out.

AMONGST SO MANY OTHER THINGS!

Check it out, and #StruggleOn!

E07 - Dan Rosen

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 13:00:12 -0300

In this episode, we talk to Dan Rosen; a Toronto screenwriter currently working on developing his short film "Joe & Mary's Kid" into a feature.

Be sure to check out the short right here: https://vimeo.com/92735757.

We talk to Dan about his many current projects, his studies, his hotel job and his own constant struggles.

Listen to his episode, follow him on Twitter @dantheguyrosen and #StruggleOn folks!

E06 - Chicken Pod

Sun, 05 Jul 2015 23:44:53 -0300

The struggle continues as Nick has a new deadline to meet before his family vacation to Scotland and Brie's working 7-days a week for the next month; long hours, and little spare time to devote to comedy. Find out what they're doing to keep it going.

Share your personal struggles with us at @strugglepod or at constantstrugglepod@gmail.com

Struggle On!

E05 - Score Your Writing Touchdowns

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 10:02:29 -0300

In this episode, Nick and Brie discuss their respective artistic struggle and deal with certain issues like guilt, rejection, networking and the GRIND. We're trying to find ways to stay motivated to help us keep creating and moving forward.

Give it a listen! If you wish to discuss your daily grind on a future episode, give us a shout at @StrugglePod.

#StruggleOn everybody!

E04 - Susannah Kiernan

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 22:34:29 -0300

This month, we talk to our first special guest EVER, triple-threat and hilarious improviser/sketch comedian, Susannah Kiernan (@SusannahKiernan).

We go on a journey into her creative struggles and discover all the stops she's taken along the way (like Switzerland!) to become the performer (via /fashionista/EA/Caterer/Server/Personal Trainer/Professional Smoothie-Creator) she is today!

Go ahead, give it a listen... & Struggle On, friends!

E03 - The Constant Struggle

Wed, 20 May 2015 09:15:00 -0300

This month, Nick and Brie explore the darker side of the artistic struggle; they discuss tactics to get out of feeling down, but also how to accept it and use it to a creative advantage by exploring the darkness!

E02 - The Constant Struggle

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 00:36:04 -0300

This month, we talk about more struggles! Hooray! Like the struggle/victory of rejection, struggles for organization, struggles to stay positive and to get to the Marc Maron show on time!

E01 - The Constant Struggle

Sun, 29 Mar 2015 20:34:44 -0300

Brie and Nick Watson talk taking on creative struggles. This first episode features thoughts on Writing, Editing, Time Management and this neverending Winter.
A great listen for all creative minds.