Create Outside the Box!

Create Outside the Box! - Four Year Anniversary!

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Season 4 Finale: Celebrating Four Years & Embracing What’s Next

In this special anniversary episode, we take a moment to reflect on four years of Create Outside the Box! —highlighting the incredible artists we’ve interviewed, the powerful stories they’ve shared, and the creative risks they’ve taken.

Host Corinne Schaefer shares a personal update on how the podcast is evolving alongside the growth of Creative OPERAtions. As we wrap up Season 4, we’re hitting pause—not as an ending, but as a way to make space for reflection, realignment, and sustainable creativity.

What’s next? We’re not entirely sure yet. Season 5 might look a little different—whether that’s a shorter season or a handful of special episodes throughout the year. But our mission remains the same: to amplify voices that are redefining what it means to be an artist today.

Watch our episodes on our Creative OPERAtions YouTube Channel under the playlist Create Outside the Box!

Follow Us!
Instagram @co_creativeoperations
Facebook www.facebook.com/CreativeOPERAtionsNYCMetroArea/
Website www.creative-operations.org

Thank You for Listening!!!

Create Outside the Box! - Benjamin Spierman

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

🎙️ In this episode, Corinne sits down with opera director and general director Benjamin Spierman for a thoughtful conversation about his background, artistic vision, and approach to storytelling through opera. Together, they explore the inspiration behind Creative OPERAtions’ upcoming concert American Classics: Weill, Gershwin & Bernstein in Concert. From blending Broadway and opera to reshaping the American musical landscape, they discuss how these iconic composers made classical music more accessible—and why their legacy still resonates today.

🎵 Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, reflections on artistic innovation, and a celebration of three of America's most influential musical voices.

www.bronxopera.org

www.oswegooperatheater.com

For information about American Classics please visit www.creative-operations.org

Create Outside the Box! - A Look Back with Chelsey Hill

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

🎙️✨ This month on Create Outside the Box, we're taking a look back with artist & coffee enthusiast Chelsey Hill—better known as The Illustrating Diva! ☕️🎨 We’re catching up with her to see where she is now as we gear up for some exciting collaborations featuring her stunning illustrations. Grab your coffee, tune in, and stay for a throwback to our original convo from 2022! 🎧

www.chelseyhill.com
Instagram @illustratingdiva

#CreateOutsideTheBox #Podcast #IllustratingDiva #ArtistSpotlight #CoffeeLover #CreativeJourney #WomenInArt #Throwback #Collaboration #ArtLife

Create Outside the Box! - Mike Quon

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

🎙️ Dive into creativity with artist Mike Quon! In this captivating podcast episode, Mike shares his journey growing up with his father, a renowned artist and Disney animator, and how it shaped his artistic path. Learn how the vibrant pop art movement and his groundbreaking design work for global icons influenced his bold, community-driven artistry today. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about art, legacy, and making a difference.

www.quonart.com

www.mikequonart.com

@Quonartanddesign

Create Outside the Box! - 2024 Wrap Up

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

🎙️ Create Outside the Box: Reflecting on 2024, Dreaming of 2025

As the year winds down, we’re taking a moment to reflect on all that 2024 brought to Creative OPERAtions, from powerful performances to community-driven initiatives. Join us as we look ahead to 2025 and share what’s in store for the new year!

In this episode, we’ll also answer listener questions about Creative OPERAtions and dive deeper into our mission of bringing opera, music, and creativity to everyone—breaking boundaries and building connections along the way.

Tune in for a mix of reflection, inspiration, and a glimpse of what’s next for Creative OPERAtions!

#CreateOutsideTheBox #CreativeOPERAtions #OperaForEveryone #2024Recap #2025Vision #ArtsAndCommunity #OperaLife #MusicMatters #CreativityUnleashed #BuildingConnections #BreakingBoundaries #PodcastEpisode #MissionDriven #SupportTheArts

Create Outside the Box! - Bernard Holcomb

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Join Corinne for a captivating conversation with tenor and creator Bernard Holcomb, where they hit all the right notes! From his early inspirations growing up in Detroit to the impactful performances and engaging content he shares on social media, Bernard shares valuable lessons learned along the way. Tune in to discover more about this talented tenor and his inspiring path to the Metropolitan Opera House.

www.bernardholcomb.com

@bernarddamonholcomb

@thedamonspeaksshow

Create Outside the Box! - Bambi Held

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

We’re taking a bite out of the art scene with artist Bambi Held as we explore her creative journey, artistic process, and the opening of Shark Tooth Studios in Matawan, New Jersey, co-founded with multi-disciplinary artist Mary Ann McKay. Join us for a conversation about the impact of art in building community and creating meaningful connections.

www.seriousgroove.com

@seriousgroovestudio

Create Outside the Box! - Andrew Lyman

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

We’re kicking off season four of Create Outside the Box with a back-to-school special! In this episode, we’re joined by music educator and trumpet player Andrew Lyman. We'll dive into his inspiring 20-year career as a music educator and director, his journey from directing church music to performing with ensembles like the Jazz Lobster Big Band, recording with artists, and serving as a tech director—all while balancing life as a dedicated family man in Ramsey, NJ.

Create Outside the Box! - Three Year Anniversary!

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

To celebrate the third anniversary of Creative OPERAtion's podcast, Create Outside the Box!, we're reflecting on the incredible guests who joined us in Season Three!

Create Outside the Box! - What Draws You to the Show?

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In this special episode, we're turning the spotlight on you, our audience! We want to hear what draws you to our concerts, shows, and events. What kinds of performances are you eager to attend? What elements make an event irresistible for you, and what aspects might turn you away?

Tune in and share your thoughts with us – together, we can craft a lineup that excites and captivates. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to the evolution of our events!

🎧 Listen now and be part of the conversation!

Leave a comment or write to us at contact@creative-operations.org

Create Outside the Box! - Michael Paris Mazzeo

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we chat with Michael Paris Mazzeo, a distinguished artist, educator, and gallerist from Red Bank, NJ. With a background in photography, Michael's career highlights include major advertising campaigns and features in top magazines. He opened a Chelsea gallery in 2005, launching numerous artists' careers and earning acclaim for his exhibitions. An esteemed educator, Michael has taught at prominent institutions and holds an MFA in Digital and Interdisciplinary Art Practice. He now runs Galerie Lucida in Red Bank, continuing to support emerging and mid-career artists. Join us as we delve into Michael's impactful journey in the art world.

https://www.michaelmazzeo.com/
https://galerielucida.com/
Instagram @galerielucida
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GalerieLucida

Create Outside the Box! - Behind the Scenes

Fri, 03 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Behind-the-Scenes of Creative OPERAtions: An inside look into the workings of Creative OPERAtions. Corinne discusses the challenges and successes of running an organization focused on creative collaborations and breaking down artistic stereotypes.

www.creative-operations.org

Create Outside the Box! - Patricia Lazzara

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode Corinne sits down with flutist Patricia Lazzara to explore her varied musical career. We delve into Patty's passion for diverse genres and her advocacy for contemporary composers, showcased through her groundbreaking collaborations. Hear firsthand accounts of unforgettable performances at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, as well as her role as the flute soloist for the Papal visit to Giants Stadium. Discover Patty's multifaceted involvement in education and ensemble leadership, and gain insight into her deep connection with Assisi, Italy. Plus, get a sneak peek into Patty's upcoming projects and performances that promise to elevate the musical experience. Tune in and immerse yourself in the harmonious world of Patty's musical journey.

www.patricialazzaraflutist.com

Create Outside the Box! - February & March Art Buzz

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Dive into the vibrant world of creativity with our latest episode of "Create Outside the Box!" In this special edition, we're your ultimate guide to the upcoming artistic wonders in February and March. Join us as we unveil a palette of diverse events, from gallery exhibitions to live performances, igniting your passion for the arts!

Discover the pulse of the creative scene as we spotlight innovative artists, showcase groundbreaking exhibitions, and unveil the cultural tapestry woven by passionate creators. Whether you're an art enthusiast or looking for a fresh burst of inspiration, this episode promises to be a colorful journey through the artistic landscape.

Visual Arts

Monmouth Museum
44th Annual Juried Exhibition
https://www.monmouthmuseum.org/

The Oyster Point Gallery
https://www.theoysterpointhotel.com/art-program/

Asja Jung, Fine Artist, Booth #808
World Horse Expo
https://www.horseworldexpo.com/

Performing Arts

Two River Theater
https://tworivertheater.org/

Holmdel Theatre
https://www.holmdeltheatrecompany.org/

New Jersey Repertory Company
https://njrep.org/

In Good Company Dance
https://www.ingoodcompanydance.org/

Carnegie Hall
https://www.carnegiehall.org/

Create Outside the Box! - Danny Weiss

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, Danny Weiss reflects on his diverse musical journey, from rock to bluegrass and folk. Highlights include his time with Tony Trischka and Skyline, global outreach, and his many collaborations. Danny also shares insights into Americana music, its roots, and his dual role as a musician and library director.

www.dannyweiss.com
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/danny.weiss.56

Create Outside the Box! - Ilse Eriksson

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Create Outside the Box! Corinne delves into the incredible journey of Ilse Eriksson, a Belgian-born clothing designer who ventured to New York City to study at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology. Now, as the creative force behind her independent slow fashion label, "Mel en Stel," Ilse harmonizes captivating fabrics with timeless design, all while championing a deliberate and sustainable approach. Join us as we explore Ilse's inspiring story, her brand's ethos, and her significant impact on the world of fashion. It's a must-listen for fashion enthusiasts and sustainability advocates alike.

www.melenstel.com
Instagram @mel_en_stel

Create Outside the Box! - Suzan Globus

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0400

Join Corinne as she delves into the captivating world of artist Suzan Globus. Explore Suzan's artistic journey and discover the profound influence of nature on her creations.

www.suzanglobus.com
Instagram @suzan.globus

Create Outside the Box! - Doreen Laskiewicz

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with creative powerhouse Doreen Laskiewicz. Listeners will learn about Doreen's journey from music teacher to photographer and magazine founder, and how she uses her talents to empower other creatives. Doreen shares insightful advice on building community, embracing collaboration over competition, and pursuing your passions. This episode provides inspiration for anyone interested in the arts or entrepreneurship!

www.doreenphotography.com
www.creativeladiesrock.com
www.gritandgoals.work
Instagram @doreen.laskiewicz
Instagram @gritandgoals
Facebook www.facebook.com/DoreenLphotography/

Create Outside the Box! - Two Year Anniversary!

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

To mark the two year anniversary of the Creative OPERAtion's podcast Create Outside the Box! we are taking a look back at all of our wonderful guests from season two!

https://www.creative-operations.org/
https://www.facebook.com/CreativeOPERAtionsNYCMetroArea
https://www.instagram.com/co_creativeoperations/

Create Outside the Box! - Susan Gonzalez

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne speaks with soprano and Artistic Director Susan Gonzalez about opera, her illustrious career, and how she is supporting the next generation of voices in opera.

https://www.hunteroperatheater.org/
https://www.facebook.com/cunyHOT
https://www.instagram.com/hunteroperatheater/

Create Outside the Box! - Nussara Cregan

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with artist Nussara Cregan to discuss her journey from decorative arts to wall murals and how she enjoys creating art and atmosphere on a large scale.

Instagram wondrouswalls
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wondrouswalls/

**The mural of Keyport that Nussara created is located on Main Street in Keyport, not Broad Street.

Create Outside the Box! - Vinny Kyne

Fri, 05 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with guitarist Vinny Kyne to discuss how a boy from Brooklyn fell in love with Bluegrass, his role as a facilitator, and why harmony is so important.

You can see Vinny perform at the following venues:

Sunny's Bar
3BR Distillery
Albert Hall

Create Outside the Box! - Peter Maurer

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Corinne sits down with trombonist, Peter Maurer, to discuss jazz, life touring as a musician, and highlights from his career, which include rocking with Bon Jovi and a former President!

For Pete's performance schedule, please visit:

https://soulcruisers.com/

Create Outside the Box! - Mary Ann McKay

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Corinne sits down with visual artist Mary Ann McKay to discuss finding success at every stage of life, being a multidisciplinary artist, and how her art gives voice to those from the past.

Website www.maryannmckay.com

Mary Ann's work is part of the collection at
The Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion
Cadwalader Park
Trenton, New Jersey

Create Outside the Box! - Look Back to Look Forward

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! We are starting off 2023 by looking back at some of our amazing guests with the hope of giving you inspiration for the new year!

Create Outside the Box! - Holiday Episode

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Corinne shares Creative OPERAtions' latest success, Feed the Soul.

We want to wish everyone a very happy holiday season and hope that you will share what you want to see and hear on Create Outside the Box! in the new year!

Create Outside the Box! - Hank Smith

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with Renaissance man Hank Smith to discuss clowning around, tap dancing, and how he got to Sesame Street.

Hank's YouTube Channel - Hangin' with Hank

Create Outside the Box! - Asja Jung

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with artist Asja Jung to discuss art, communication, and finding and building a supportive artist community.

Website www.zhibit.org/asja

To find and buy Asja's work year round, please visit the Red Bank Artisan Collective.
https://redbankartisancollective.com/

Until the end of October you can visit Asja's exhibit, Horses a Love Story, at the Upper Gallery at the Spring Lake Community House and Theater.
https://www.springlaketheatre.com/home

Join Asja for her opening of Cathedrals + Horses at the Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank on November 4th 6pm-8pm. Artist talk on November 13th at 3pm. The exhibit will run from November 4th until January 3rd.
https://www.theoysterpointhotel.com/art-program/#upcoming

Create Outside the Box! - Lukas Waßmann

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with costume and scenic designer Lukas Waßman to talk about inclusion, design, and what he sees for the future of theater.

Website www.lukaswassmanndesign.com
Instagram lukas.wassmann.design
Facebook www.facebook.com/lukas.wassmann

Create Outside the Box! - One Year Anniversary

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

To mark the one year anniversary of the Creative OPERAtion's podcast Create Outside the Box! is taking a look back at all of our wonderful guests from season one!

https://www.creative-operations.org/
https://www.facebook.com/CreativeOPERAtionsNYCMetroArea
https://www.instagram.com/co_creativeoperations/

Create Outside the Box! - Bryn & Campbell Vertesi

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with the founders of the international opera band, The Cast, to discuss why they love the art form, being innovative in a traditional performing arts genre, and what they see for the future of opera.

Website www.thecastmusic.com
Instagram thecastmusic
Facebook www.facebook.com/thecastofficial
YouTube thecastde

Create Outside the Box! - Chelsey Hill

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with the Illustrating Diva, Chelsey Hill, to discuss coffee, Callas, and being creative.

Website www.chelseyhill.com
Instagram illustratingdiva

Create Outside the Box! - Leeroy Boone

Wed, 04 May 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Corinne sits down with dancer, actor, and performer Leeroy Boone to discuss what it is like to come from an artistic family, keeping motivated in your craft, and his move from ballet to the West End.

Instagram LeeroyBoone
Twitter BooneLeeroy

Create Outside the Box! - Sara Ezzell

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode we go through the looking-glass and behind the scenes of Brooke deRosa's Alice in Wonderland.

It's tea time! Corinne sat down with Assistant Director and Choreographer Sara Ezzell to discuss how your body can be an instrument of acting, directing a piece that you are performing in, and collaborating together on the video Home from Brooke deRosa's Alice in Wonderland!

Create Outside the Box! - Melissa Stanton

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Corinne sits down with Emmy award winning Wardrobe Supervisor Melissa Stanton to discuss her incredible career on Broadway, TV, and Film, how costumes can be transformative, and how constraints can lead to creativity.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0822782/

Create Outside the Box! - Part 2 - Alycia Yerves

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Part 2 of our conversation with Alycia Yerves, founder of the award winning Jersey Shore marketing and design agency Alycia Yerves Creative. We discuss empowerment, education, and authenticity and personal branding. Let's jump back into our conversation!

Website: www.alyciayerves.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyciayervescreative/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlyciaYervesCreative
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/helpdeskalyciayerves
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyciayerves/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlyciaYerves

Create Outside the Box! - Part 1 - Alycia Yerves

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Corinne sits down with marketer, designer, educator, and nacho enthusiast Alycia Yerves to discuss how marketing is an art form, bringing your ideas to life, and being in charge of your own brand. This conversation couldn't be contained to just one episode, so we are bringing you a very special two part series which serves as an entertaining marketing masterclass for any artist and creative. Get ready to feel empowered!

Website: www.alyciayerves.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyciayervescreative/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlyciaYervesCreative
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/helpdeskalyciayerves
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyciayerves/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlyciaYerves

Create Outside the Box! - Sashell Beck

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Corinne sat down for tea with Co-Founder Sashell Beck to discuss her role of Alice, opera, and our new video "Home," from Brooke deRosa's Alice in Wonderland!

Website: www.sashellbeck.com
Facebook: Sashell Beck, Soprano
Instagram: Sashell Beck

Create Outside the Box! - Anastasia Zuzmann

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Corinne interviews artist, soprano, actress, and photographer Anastasia Zuzmann to discuss how many artists thrive in multiple disciplines, intuition and creativity, and what Russia and the US have in common.

Instagram zuzmann_photography & anastasia.artist.hamburg

Create Outside the Box! - Sara Ezzell

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 17:00:00 -0400

In this episode we go through the looking-glass and behind the scenes of Brooke deRosa's Alice in Wonderland.

It's tea time! Corinne sat down with Assistant Director and Choreographer Sara Ezzell to discuss women in the arts, Bob Fosse, the Mad Hatter, and collaborating together on Brooke deRosa's I'm the Mad Hatter!

Create Outside the Box! - Norbert Kohler

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 20:00:00 -0400

In this episode we go through the looking-glass and behind the scenes of Brooke deRosa's Alice in Wonderland.

Corinne sat down for an international tea with German musical theater actor Norbert Kohler to discuss the Mad Hatter, the Berlin Comedian Harmonists, and what lies ahead!

Create Outside the Box! - Christina Jones

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

From Bach to Blues! Classical pianist and now composer, Kimiko Ishizaka has composed a new jazz album, "You Were My Compass," based on her real life journey of heart break, self discovery, and freedom. In this episode, Corinne interviews Christina Jones, the singer who bring's Kimiko's music to life!

This album marks a debut for this exciting and soulful singer. Christina discusses the making of “You Were My Compass,” and her journey thus far, which includes being on American Idol and performing at the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem!

www.christinajones.com
TikTok _christinajones
Instagram christinajonesofficial

An Introduction

Sat, 22 May 2021 20:00:00 -0400

An introduction to Creative OPERAtions new podcast Create Outside the Box! We want to bring new ideas to life, creating art, led by artists. With our podcast Create Outside the Box! we will be sitting down with artists who are doing just that, leading by example and breaking down barriers.