Recorded live from the cozy corner booth at Skip Paige’s Little Bar in Palm Desert, this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence explores the many chapters of an artist’s life—from musical theater beginnings to iconic television moments and beyond. Actress Sharon Lawrence joins the conversation to revisit career milestones, including her memorable work on NYPD Blue and a fan-favorite turn as Amelia Earhart on Star Trek: Voyager. She shares how a family steeped in storytelling shaped her voice, timing, and love of performance, and why ensemble work can feel like a “mind meld.” The discussion widens into how Hollywood has changed—from 20-plus-episode seasons to today’s streaming landscape, industry contractions, and new vertical storytelling formats. Lawrence also highlights her advocacy through SAG-AFTRA Foundation programs, including emergency assistance and literacy outreach. Warm, funny, and thoughtful, it’s an energizing start to the new season—complete with bar banter, theater shout-outs, and plenty of heart.

Takeaways:

1. A live, laughter-filled kickoff to a new season from the Palm Desert corner booth.
2. Sharon Lawrence reflects on NYPD Blue, including Sylvia’s arc and lasting impact.
3. A deep dive into her Star Trek: Voyager role as Amelia Earhart—and fan culture.
4. Early career roots in musical theater and how stage experience builds confidence.
5. Growing up in a broadcasting, storytelling family shaped her voice and timing.
6. Why acting “competition” is about fit and subjectivity—not winning or losing.
7. TV’s evolution: fewer episodes, more platforms, mergers, and shifting audiences.
8. Behind-the-scenes union work: SAG-AFTRA Foundation support, grants, and literacy.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #McCallumTheatre #SharonLawrence #ActressInterview #PalmDesert #PodcastEpisode #NYPDBlue #StarTrekVoyager #AmeliaEarhart #Broadway #HallmarkMovies #SAGAFTRAFoundation #StorylineOnline #McCallumTheater #EntertainmentIndustry

From the coveted corner booth at Skip Paige’ Little Bar, this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar dives into how improvisation can reshape the way we communicate, create, and connect. The conversation traces a winding artistic path—from Chicago theater roots and a self-directed college experience to global adventures that tested resilience and deepened empathy. Along the way, the Melanie Blue shares with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence how improv and acting strengthen each other: acting adds depth to improvisation, while improv builds trust, listening, and adaptability for scripted work and real life. The hosts reflect on taking beginner improv classes, confronting fear, and discovering surprising community inside the classroom. You’ll also hear about corporate workshops that use “improv mindset” techniques to help teams present better, collaborate faster, and loosen up—without losing substance. Plus, there’s a spotlight on an upcoming desert theater production featuring Georgia O’Keeffe, and why creative mentorship can change everything.

Takeaways:

1. Improv isn’t just jokes—it’s honesty, character, and grounded reality.
2. “Yes, and” supports better listening, trust, and collaboration offstage.
3. Safe, playful spaces help adults take creative risks and grow confidence.
4. Acting skills deepen improv; improv skills strengthen scripted performance.
5. Fear doesn’t disappear—courage is moving forward while holding it.
6. Life experiences can become fuel for teaching, empathy, and artistry.
7. Corporate “improv mindset” workshops build presentation and team dynamics.
8. Community forms fast when everyone shares beginner-level vulnerability.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #McCallumTheatre #MelanieBlue #Improv #Improvisation #YesAnd #Acting #TheatreCommunity #PalmDesert #CoachellaValley #Creativity #CommunicationSkills #PersonalGrowth #DesertEnsembleTheatre

Last May, Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence, featured one of our most popular episodes ever. Patrick and Randy dove deep into the poignant yet humorous journey of Molly, a woman who faced terminal cancer with remarkable strength and a quest for self-discovery. Nikki Boyer, the creator of the podcast and television series "Dying for Sex," shared intimate stories and insights from her friendship with Molly and how their podcast evolved into a powerful TV series. They discuss the complexities of love, sexuality, and the importance of living life fully, even when faced with difficult circumstances. Through laughter and tears, the episode highlights the beauty of friendship and the courage to embrace one’s desires. As we prepare for the holidays, if you missed it, check out this enlightening conversation that challenges societal norms around sex, health, and life’s fleeting moments. This episode is presented in part by the McCallum Theatre and Skip Paige's Little Bar.

Takeaways:

• Molly's journey of self-discovery after a terminal cancer

diagnosis.

• The importance of advocating for one’s health and getting

second opinions.

• How humor and friendship can transform the experience of

facing death.

• Nikki's emotional connection with Molly and her influence on

her life.

• The evolution of the "Dying for Sex" podcast into a

television series.

• Challenging societal taboos around female sexuality and

desire.

• The healing power of self-acceptance and love in the face of

adversity.

• The significance of sharing stories to foster connection and

understanding.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyResidents #SkipPaige #DyingForSex #NikkiBoyer #EmotionalJourney #Friendship #CancerAwareness #Sexuality #SelfDiscovery #Podcast #TelevisionSeries #LifeAndDeath #Empowerment #Storytelling #MentalHealth

Originally Released: May 26, 2025