Share Your Story on APAP’s Award-Winning Podcast 

Since its inception during the height of the pandemic, the “ARTS. WORK. LIFE.” podcast by APAP (Association of Performing Arts Professionals) has aimed to illuminate the realities of working in the performing arts, highlighting the powerful, personal, and often hidden narratives behind the industry. Entering its fourth season, this acclaimed podcast has earned a devoted global audience and prestigious awards, including the Bronze Anthem Award and a Trendy Award for Best Podcast. Now, APAP invites performing arts professionals to submit their own stories, offering a unique opportunity to be featured on this dynamic platform.

To date, “ARTS. WORK. LIFE.” has showcased 63 storytellers from across North America and around the world, bringing together intimate accounts that reveal the joys, challenges, and transformations faced by artists and arts workers alike. With over 26,000 downloads across six continents, the podcast continues to resonate deeply within the performing arts community and beyond.

Claire Caulfield, producer and host, explained during a recent webinar on submitting stories that unlike conventional podcasts, “ARTS. WORK. LIFE.” is dedicated to authentic, first-person storytelling. The podcast offers deeply personal insights, pulling back the curtain on real-life experiences from all corners of the performing arts industry. Rather than journalism or promotion, the podcast seeks powerful individual narratives—stories that change perspectives, inspire empathy, and speak authentically to listeners’ hearts.

Submissions are open until April 10, 2025, with an initial priority deadline of March 20, 2025. Stories are encouraged from every facet of the industry: performers, directors, agents, presenters, educators, and beyond. Whether your tale recounts a transformative professional moment, an inspiring personal experience, or reveals a crucial behind-the-scenes perspective, your voice can make a significant contribution to the upcoming fourth season.

What makes a story compelling for “ARTS. WORK. LIFE.”? Claire emphasizes authenticity and personal impact over perfection. Applicants don’t need previous storytelling or podcast experience; submissions can be as simple as bullet points outlining an impactful event or meaningful realization. The podcast process is collaborative and supportive. Selected storytellers work closely with Claire and the APAP team, receiving professional guidance on narrative development, audio production, technical assistance, and editing. Each storyteller also receives a $200 honorarium as a gesture of appreciation.

During the webinar, two previous storytellers, Randall Presswood and Beatrice Thomas, shared their experiences and insights into the podcast-making process. Randall, a season-one contributor, described his participation as “transformational,” emphasizing how meaningful it was to share his journey publicly during a pivotal personal transition. Beatrice from season two praised the platform for providing artists the rare chance to genuinely reflect on the underlying emotions and complexities of their professional lives. Both highlighted the collaborative and nurturing approach, assuring future storytellers of a comfortable, affirming recording experience.

This year, APAP is eager to showcase stories particularly relevant to 2025. Whether reflecting current trends, emerging issues, or timeless lessons, submissions should speak meaningfully to the contemporary performing arts landscape. Claire suggests potential storytellers consider: “Why is your story essential right now? How can your narrative enrich listeners’ understanding of the arts industry today?”

Interested storytellers can easily submit their narrative ideas online. APAP advises participants to focus on personal, transformative experiences rather than promotional pitches or self-advertisement. The stories should highlight deeper motivations, struggles overcome, profound realizations, or inspiring personal insights into the performing arts journey.

The selection committee, composed of APAP members and the podcast producers carefully evaluates submissions, considering diversity across regions, disciplines, and professional roles. Selected stories will be featured in episodes released from late May through July 2025, reaching a global audience eager to hear authentic voices from within the arts community.

Submitting to “ARTS. WORK. LIFE.” represents a remarkable opportunity to share your story, inspire listeners around the world, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the human experiences that drive the performing arts industry.

Ready to tell your story? Submit your pitch by the priority deadline of March 20, 2025, or the final deadline on April 10, 2025. APAP eagerly awaits your narrative—one that only you can share.

To learn more and submit your story, visit APAP’s official podcast submission page. 

Main Image: "ARTS. WORK. LIFE." producer and host Claire Caulfield interviews a member of the tap group SOLE Defined at APAP|NYC 2025.