Why I‘ll Never Make It

The actor’s journey is one of occasional highs and frequent lows. It is a path riddled with self-doubt and frustration as we question our career choices, wondering if we’ll ever really ”make it.” But it is those few moments of glory on stage or screen that can sustain us through all the setbacks and challenges. On this award-winning podcast, New York actor Patrick Oliver Jones invites fellow creatives to share three stories that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative life rarely seen in the glitz and glam of this industry. These conversations remind us we’re not alone in this often bumpy and winding journey of the performing arts.

Why I‘ll Never Make It is a arts podcast hosted by Patrick Oliver Jones, with 416 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Patrick Oliver Jones hosts Why I‘ll Never Make It, a arts show with 416 episodes published.

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  Why I‘ll Never Make It

  FINAL FIVE: Sydney Kane, Comedic Actress and Writer

  Sep 25, 202632 min

  The wonderful Sydney Kane is back to answer the Final Five Questions and share some memorable auditions stories. This is a continuation of our previous conversation, an honest and humorous deep dive into her artistic journey. From memories of her first professional show to navigating the pressures of auditions and self-worth in the industry, Sydney Kane shares candid lessons and advice about authenticity, resilience, and creating community. Why I’ll Never Make It is an independent production of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of this podcast please ⁠subscribe⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠donate⁠⁠. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  Episode #9

  Sydney Kane Brings Laughter to Her Life and Acting Career

  Sep 18, 20261h 13mS10

  When the to-do list starts piling up, it’s easy to put off the things that matter most. After nearly six months of unemployment since my last show, I’ve found myself doing exactly that: staying up too late, sleeping in, snacking, spending an hour on a self-tape and then finding plenty of ways to avoid the rest of the day. Self-motivation and discipline have never come easily to me, while doing what’s comfortable can be all too easy. Then along comes Sydney Kane. An NYC-based actor, singer, comedian, and writer, Sydney has performed everywhere from off-off-off Broadway to the big 9x16 screen of a phone. She’s built a following with her insightful and hilarious takes on dating, while also creating her own opportunities as a writer and producer. In this episode, we talk about the limitations of college musical theater programs, why authenticity matters in your work, and what happens when you stop waiting for someone else to give you an opportunity. Sydney also shares the story behind Wife Material, her one-woman musical comedy special built from her own unfortunate dating decisions and featuring original songs. We talk about the vulnerability of turning personal experiences into art, the challenge of embracing your authentic voice, and why creating your own work can sometimes be the only way forward. Most of all, this conversation is a reminder to get off your butt and do something. Sometimes the artist you need to hear from is the one who gives you a swift kick in the pants. --- Why I’ll Never Make It is an independent production of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of this podcast please ⁠subscribe⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠donate⁠⁠. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  Episode #8

  FINAL FIVE: Rachel Lin, Embracing Uncertainty and Trusting the Journey

  Aug 3, 20269 minS10

  Theater is a world of breakthrough performances and backstage challenges and is as cherished for its camaraderie as it is notorious for its pressures. After a wonderful initial conversation, Rachel Lin is back for an illuminating discussion, bringing her perspective as a creator, collaborator, and relentless advocate for artists’ well-being. In this discussion she highlights stories and lessons that resonate with any artist navigating the highs and hardships of a creative life. Rachel shares her vision of “making it” in the theater, moving away from the glitz of star billing towards something far more lasting: belonging and artistic growth. And in a bold address of industry culture, she doesn’t shy away from calling for systemic change, asking for a theater world where the artists themselves are valued and not merely their output. She also speaks candidly about wrestling with impatience and learning to surrender to timing. WINMI Host Patrick Oliver Jones and Rachel find common ground in these shared challenges. Their candid dialogue calls for greater compassion in the industry, all the while reminding us that the journey is what truly shapes an artist, not the destination. --- Why I’ll Never Make It is an independent production of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of this podcast please ⁠subscribe⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠donate⁠⁠. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  Episode #6

  FINAL FIVE: New York Theater Company with Katherine Winter, Josh Zacher, and John Kroft

  Jul 3, 202627 minS10

  Katherine Winter, Josh Zacher, and John Kroft from the New York Theater Company are back for an honest, insightful, and often humorous exploration of what it truly takes to carve out a meaningful career in the performing arts. Listen as these talented artists share their most memorable—and sometimes unconventional—survival jobs, from guiding Central Park tours to working in a wine shop and teaching at a ballet school. They open up about the twists, turns, and unexpected moments that have shaped their journeys, offering heartfelt advice to their younger selves and redefining what "making it" really means. If you've ever wondered how theater professionals stay grounded, why collaboration matters, or what personal growth looks like behind the scenes, these artists offer valuable lessons, industry insights, and inspiration for persevering—even when the spotlight feels far away. Follow NYTC: Website / Instagram / The Circuit --- Why I’ll Never Make It is an independent production of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of this podcast please ⁠subscribe⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠donate⁠⁠. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  Episode #4

  New York Theatre Company Takes Performance Off the Stage and Into the Streets

  Jun 24, 20261h 31mS10

  Step behind the scenes of the innovative New York Theatre Company with Katherine Winter, Josh Zacher, and John Kroft—the creative team behind their latest groundbreaking production, the immersive outdoor dance experience The Circuit. Katherine draws inspiration from classic Hollywood and Barbra Streisand as well as her Toronto theater roots. Josh believes movement is the heartbeat of storytelling, and John has learned to navigate the highs and lows of the industry—like being fired from a dream job. The trio also share candid stories about guerrilla theater, crowd-wrangling challenges, silent disco technology, and the drive to make NYC itself a living, breathing scene partner. Hear firsthand how these young artists are redefining the boundaries of live performance, even amidst pandemic setbacks and personal setbacks from lost agents to creative differences. Whether you're a Broadway fan, aspiring artist, or looking for new things to do in New York City, this episode is packed with practical insights on building community, producing immersive theater, and pushing art outside the box. It's an inspiring look at what it takes to make theater—and the lessons learned when things don't go as planned. Learn more: New York Theatre Company / The Circuit --- Why I’ll Never Make It is an independent production of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of this podcast please ⁠subscribe⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠donate⁠⁠. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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