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 from the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast by MonsterVox Productions! 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 to the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast 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.

Dive into the chaotic charm of The Albatross Cafe, the heart-pounding segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast that's equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and downright bizarre. Hosted by the irrepressible Marty Merman (still kicking despite those shingles!), this episode packs a punch with tales of triumph, toe-tapping tunes, and baseball brain-teasers that will have you laughing out loud and hitting that subscribe button faster than a home run.

Marty's Muse Takes the Reins: From Racetrack Riches to AI Poetry Shenanigans

Fresh off a big win at the track, Marty channels his inner bard with the help of AI to craft an epic (and epically twisted) ode to his longshot horse, Bella's Elbow. Expect rhymes that veer into vampire territory ... because why not?

Esther's Pentagram of Profiles: Celebrating the Flash-in-the-Pan Phenoms

Marty's mom, Esther Merman, steals the show with her sassy countdown of the greatest one-hit wonders ever. From disco divas to Celtic pop kings, she'll have you humming along and questioning why we can't love more than one song.

Agnes Explains the Inexplicable: Unraveling Baseball's Baffling Infield Fly Rule

The enigmatic Agnes breaks down MLB's most head-scratching rule with crystal-clear logic... interspersed with surreal sidebars about kidneys, ice baths, and deceptive plays. It's educational, eerie, and endlessly entertaining.

Stop What You're Doing And Listen!

• Hear Marty's triumphant racetrack yarn and his hilariously mangled AI-generated poem that mashes up horse racing with Twilight lore, guaranteed to leave you in stitches and rooting for more underdog stories.
• Jam out with Esther as she profiles iconic one-hit wonders like "Ring My Bell," "Spirit in the Sky," and "Come On Eileen," dishing on their quirky backstories and why we're all just "fickle bastards" when it comes to music.
• Get schooled by Agnes on the infield fly rule's nitty-gritty details, complete with vivid scenarios that protect runners from sneaky defenses ... plus bizarre interruptions that add a layer of Electric Secrets' signature weirdness.

If this wild ride of longshots, musical magic, and rulebook riddles has you hooked, you're in for a treat! Subscribe to the Electric Secrets variety podcast now on your favorite platform to catch every episode of The Albatross Cafe, plus mind-bending segments like Crisis Existential and Carney Koalas on Strike. Produced by MonsterVox Productions, Electric Secrets is your go-to for laugh-out-loud variety that keeps the surprises coming. Don't miss out on the fun, or you'll be left in the dust like a forgotten one-hit wonder!

This has been a presentation of MonsterVox Productions. All persons in this podcast are fictional, and resemblance to any person living or dead is purely coincidental and not intended by the creator.

Monster Vox Productions LLC.

About Scott Smith, Voice Actor

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.

Join host Scott Leon Smith and marketing guru Abbey Kanellakis in this lively episode of Struck to the Soul, a segment of the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast, recorded live at the Bucyrus Tap House in Bucyrus, Ohio. This episode dives into the fleeting, powerful moments in film that ignite creativity and linger in the soul, shaping artists and their craft. From iconic snarls to subtle glances, Scott and Abbey unpack the cinematic sparks that drive emotional and artistic impact, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their own creative journeys.

• Cinematic Moments as Creative Catalysts: Iconic scenes, like Harrison Ford's snarl in Raiders of the Lost Ark or Meryl Streep's subtle expressions in The Deer Hunter, deliver "acute catharsis," galvanizing viewers and inspiring artists to capture authentic emotion in their work.

• Authenticity Over Perfection: Chasing perfection can overshadow the genuine, visceral moments that define great art. Recognizing and harnessing these moments, as seen in a testimonial video where a single word, "electrifying" lit up a speaker's face, elevates creative impact.

• Maturity Enhances Appreciation: Revisiting films with a mature lens reveals deeper layers of meaning, as seen in re-watching classics like Jaws or The Breakfast Club, where technical brilliance and emotional resonance hit harder with life experience.

This episode is a must for artists, filmmakers, and anyone who's ever been moved by a fleeting moment on screen. Scott and Abbey's passionate discussion, peppered with humor and nostalgia, will inspire you to seek out and cherish the sparks that fuel creativity. Tune in to explore how these moments shape not just art, but life.

Check out additional segments of the Electric Secrets Variety Podcast on the Brain Candy menu at MonsterVoxProductions.com. Join the conversation about creativity and share your own "struck to the soul" moments!

Get ready to crank up the volume and feel the soul-shaking, microphone-melting energy of two legendary vocalists in the latest episode of The Unforgettable Voice, a segment of the Electric Secrets variety podcast!

Hosted by the ever-charismatic Scott Leon Smith and featuring vocal expert Lori Turner, this episode dives headfirst into the raw, unfiltered power of Janis Joplin and Tina Turner. Recorded live at the vibrant Richland Academy of the Arts in Mansfield, Ohio—where young performers are crafting their own vocal magic, this episode is a high-octane tribute to two women who broke every rule in the vocal handbook and still left audiences begging for more.

Expect laughs, insights, and a whole lotta passion as Scott and Lori unpack what makes these voices unforgettable.

• Janis Joplin's Banshee Wail Meets Heartfelt Ballads: Scott and Lori explore how Janis Joplin's gritty, blues-rock scream in hits like "Piece of My Heart" wasn't just chaos; it was a deliberate, passionate choice. From her surprising soft and gentle moments on a Dick Cavett talk show to her raw socio-political protest through sound, Janis redefined what it meant to sing the blues as a white woman in the 60s.

• Tina Turner's Full-Body Fire: Lori breaks down Tina's electrifying vocal attack, which surges from the soles of her feet to the top of her range. Whether she's shimmying through "Proud Mary" or belting out "What's Love Got to Do With It," Tina's storytelling and physicality set her apart. Plus, Scott can't resist geeking out over her iconic role as the villain in Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome ... because who else sings a Bond theme and rules a post-apocalyptic wasteland?

• Why We Need More Voices Like These: In a world of overproduced pop, Scott and Lori lament the lack of passion in today's music scene. They draw parallels to modern artists like Amy Winehouse, Pink, and Lady Gaga, who carry the torch of raw authenticity, and speculate on where Janis and Tina would fit in today's image-obsessed industry.

• Passion Trumps Perfection: Janis and Tina prove that raw, unpolished emotion can outshine technically "perfect" vocals, drawing listeners in with their heart and soul.

• Vocal Choices Define Artistry: Both singers made deliberate stylistic choices: Janis with her raspy protest and Tina with her full-body power, showing that knowing your instrument is key to iconic performances.

• Storytelling Is King: From Janis's socio-political screams to Tina's narrative-driven performances, their ability to tell stories through song remains a gold standard for artists today.

Loved the rasp, the passion, and the pure diva energy? Subscribe to Electric Secrets on your favorite podcast platform to catch every episode of The Unforgettable Voice and other wild segments like The Albatross Cafe. Want more? Head over to MonsterVox Productions for behind-the-scenes goodies and updates on all things Scott Leon Smith.

Disclaimer: 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 are those of its participants and may not reflect those of any podcasting platform or hosting service.