Why You Should Start a Podcast with Next Chapter Podcast's Michael Goodfriend

Why You Should Start a Podcast with Next Chapter Podcast's Michael Goodfriend

Author: Hassiem May 6, 2025 Duration: 45:24
Welcome back to another episode of The Actor's Instrument! In this episode, host Hassiem Muhammad welcomes the multitalented Michael Goodfriend — actor, writer, director, and head of scripted fiction at Next Chapter Podcasts. From the stages of Korea to the studios of Sirius XM, Michael’s journey bridges classic theater and modern audio storytelling. Together, they discuss Michael’s rich background in performance, his pioneering work in political and scripted podcasting, and how he’s helping to shape the future of fiction audio. With over 10 million downloads across his network and recent collaborations like Timon of Athens, Michael pulls back the curtain on how powerful stories are being told through the microphone. In this conversation: Michael’s evolution from stage actor to podcasting powerhouse Insights into producing fiction podcasts and serialized audio drama The creative process behind Timon of Athens Tips for actors entering the world of voice and podcast work This episode is a masterclass for performers, creatives, and storytellers looking to expand their reach and impact in the digital age. Be sure to subscribe or follow wherever you listen to your podcasts! 

The Actor's Instrument: Tools for the Long Game with Hassiem Muhammad is a conversation for anyone who has ever stepped onto a stage or in front of a camera and wondered what comes next. Hosted by actor Hassiem Muhammad, this podcast operates on the belief that a lasting career is built not on a single role, but on a deep understanding of the craft and the business that surrounds it. Each episode features honest discussions with the people who shape the industry-working casting directors, veteran actors from Hollywood and Broadway, and other behind-the-scenes professionals. The focus here is on practical wisdom and the nuanced realities of building a life in the arts, moving beyond simple inspiration to actionable strategies. You'll hear about navigating auditions, the importance of personal resilience, and how to cultivate the professional relationships that sustain a career over decades. This isn't about quick fixes; it's about developing the tools for the long haul. Tune in for a candid look at the work that happens between the roles, designed to help actors at any stage demystify their path forward and build something enduring.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

The Actor's Instrument: Tools for the Long Game with Hassiem Muhammad
Podcast Episodes
Trust Your Gut with Mamma Mia’s Caro Daye Attayek [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
Broadway star Caro Daye Attayek joins host Hassiem Muhammad on The Actor’s Instrument to share her inspiring journey from Elon University to her Broadway debut in Mamma Mia! (Revival). In this episode, Caro opens up abou…
From UPS Driver to Dexter Resurrection With Darius Jordan Lee [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:24
In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument: Tools for the Long Game, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor Darius Jordan Lee (Dexter: Resurrection, The Last OG, Power Book II, Will Trent, Ain’t Too Proud on Broadway)…
Should I Get an MFA Degree? With Godfather of Harlem’s Devin Kessler [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:53
Should you get an MFA in acting—or not? 🎭 Actor Devin Kessler (Godfather of Harlem, A24’s Crystal Lake) joins host Hassiem Muhammad on The Actor’s Instrument to talk about her path from UNC School of the Arts to NYU’s MF…
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In this episode, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with Jason Thinger of the Jim Carnahan Casting Office — the powerhouse behind Broadway hits like Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Merr…
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Duration: 32:18
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Duration: 40:41
Want to book more roles, grow your network, and work with top reps? Talent manager ChiChi Anyanwu shares insider tips on agents vs. managers, networking, and staying proactive so you can stand out in Broadway, film, and…
Season 4, a Distribution Deal, and Tools for the Long Game [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:27
We’re kicking off Season 4 with a huge announcement: The Actor’s Instrument has officially joined the Next Chapter Podcasts network! Next Chapter is a theater-centric podcast platform with over 10 million downloads — and…
How Being Helpful Gets You Hired with Tony Award Winner Francis Jue [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:10
Welcome back to another season of The Actor’s Instrument. In the season premiere, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with 2025 Tony Award winner Francis Jue (Yellow Face, Pacific Overtures, Thoroughly Modern Millie) for a d…
10 Traits of Highly Successful Actors — Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:44
Before we launch into Season 4 with a brand-new interview and a major announcement (dropping next week!), we’re closing this chapter with one more look back at some of the most impactful insights ever shared on the show.…
The Importance of Self-Promotion: A Content Creation Compilation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:09
As we gear up for some exciting changes to the show (announcement coming in just two weeks!), we’re continuing our anniversary celebration with another powerful compilation episode—this time focused on self-promotion and…