Busy, Busy, Busy!

Lately, it seems like life has been in "fast forward" mode.  I haven't had much time to stop and take everything in since I've been so busy working.

Yesterday was my last day on Top Model for the season.  The time flew by SO quickly, and I'm really sad to see it all come to an end.  The crew on the show has become like family to me, and it makes coming into work every day just a little more special.  Once the cycle hits the airwaves this summer, we'll find out if we are back for another season.  Keep your fingers crossed for me that we do!

Today, I am back on set of Dancing with the Stars.  No down time.  No break in the middle.  I'm just hopping from one gig to the next.  I'm excited to be back with some familiar faces I haven't seen in a while, and I'm looking forward to meeting some of the new stars for this season.

Maybe if I'm lucky, I'll find a day off in the near future.  Until then, it's time to put the petal to the metal!

A Fond Farewell

Today, I had a lovely opportunity to guest star on a radio / blog show hosted by Betty Jo Tucker.  Betty Jo hosts the hit-show "Movie Addict Headquarters" where she chats about all things entertainment.  I was honored to be invited on her show to discuss the Milwaukee Summer Entertainment Camp.

During the program, I think I took quite a few people by surprise when I formally announced that I would be ending my camp after a fantastic four year run.  It was hard to say goodbye, but I know it's time for me to move on to the next great adventure.  In case you missed it, here was the bulk of my farewell announcement:

"For the last four years, our camp has done some truly incredible things.  We constantly raised the bar and achieved big goals.  This camp has been my life and I know when it's time to say goodbye and move onto new projects and even greater adventures.  Thank You to everyone who has supported us along the way.  Your trust in me; your sharing of your time every summer has brought me and our kids the greatest joy."

Before the show, I was pondering if making the announcement on Betty Jo's show was the right call.  After our hour long program, I had no doubts in my mind.  It was so nice to hear from all the wonderful people that called in and shared their positive thoughts and memories about the camp with me.  I felt like I have made a difference over the past four summers.

It's always tough to walk away from something.  Especially when you put so much heart and soul into it.  But I know my job here is done, and I know greater things await on the horizon.  Thanks to everyone for coming along with me on this camp journey, and I hope you stay with me for the next great adventure.

In case you are curious in listening to the entire hour-long show, you can have a listen by clicking here.

Christmas Eve in California

Well, this is weird.  For the first time EVER -- it's Christmas Eve and I'm not heading home to Milwaukee to be with my family.  While I am a little sad and lonesome, I've been able to find some Hollywood Christmas cheer that has definitely lifted my spirits.

For starters, I was caught in the middle of a Christmas Gangnam Style Flashmob on the way home from the mall today.  That was odd, but also kind of cool at the same time.



Then, I passed by a house that appeared to be owned by Clark Griswold.  The decorations outside were truly OUT OF THIS WORLD!  I don't think I've ever seen Christmas decorations that were quite this extravagant   Come to find out, the man who owns the house has done work with Disney animatronics before....Go figure!



Lastly, and perhaps MOST exciting, the Hollywood Christmas Caroling Truck passed by my house tonight! I had NO idea what this was until it came strolling down the block, but as the video will show, it was a magical site for people of all ages to watch.  I've never witnessed such a joyful holiday celebration where people were crazy with excitement and so much Christmas cheer.  I might have to stick around next year to see this pass by again...



My thoughts tonight are with my family and friends in Wisconsin.  I miss everyone like crazy, and I promise I'll be heading home again soon.  Until then, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Clay Aiken Concert

Tonight I went to see Clay Aiken in concert!  And it was AWESOME!  Back in 2001, Clay Aiken was runner up on American Idol.  In my opinion (and in the opinion of many people), he should have won.  He went on to have the highest-grossing album of the year.  Since then, he's lost a lot of fans and become a pun of a lot of jokes, but I still think his voice is incredible!

I've never been in the front row for a concert before, but there's always a first time for everything!  Clay and his crew put on an awe-inspiring concert that put everyone in the Christmas spirit.  I even managed to get a few great pictures on my cell phone!  Perhaps the most un-expected highlight of the evening was sitting next to Arsenio Hall, who was there to support his former competitor from "The Celebrity Apprentice".  Check out the pictures of my awesome night and be sure to listen to Clay's Christmas album to get in the holiday spirit!

DWTS - That's A Wrap!

It's hard to believe, but this season of Dancing with the Stars has already come to an end. Where HAS the time gone?! I've been lucky enough to receive some great exposure this season - working with some truly awesome 'All Stars' both in front of and behind the camera. Here's a few shout outs:

Gilles Marini

Gilles is one of the nicest guys I have ever met. He is humble, caring, and often times, extremely funny. I've enjoyed the time we spent at the dance studio getting to know each other during production. I learned a lot from him about how people 'in front of the camera' live their lives. I will carry the lessons he taught me onto my future production jobs.

Apolo Ohno

Apolo was another great guy I was honored to have met. It's not every day you have a chance to work closely with an Olympic gold medalist. (Much less the most decorated Winter Olympian of all time!) For a man who has won more medals than he can count, he is extremely down to earth and giving. (Lord knows if I won than many medals, it would go to my head!) I loved the fact that Apolo would constantly be pushing me to be the best I could be.

Dave Williams

Dave Williams is part of the Security Team for DWTS. He reminds me a lot of my dad because of his experience with the police, etc... We spent a lot of time together laughing on set about the funniest things. Throughout the season, we also had a special chance to witness history together - by watching the Space Shuttle Endeavour flyover Southern California. He's a great guy who's makes every day a little brighter!

Kathleen Smyth

I don't think I would have been able to do this cycle without Kathleen! We spent countless hours on set together making the best of the craziest situations. Even when things got stressful, we were able to push each other through and make magic happen. After the finale, we were the the two 'lucky ones' who had to stay and wrap the stage while everyone else went to the Wrap Party. Even though we missed out, we found a way to have just as much fun. It's always nice to create great new friendships in the most unexpected places while on the job. :)


There were countless other people that made this experience an enjoyable one. If I listed them all, you'd be reading for a while! This season was a crazy one, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to be a part of such a big show. It's a crazy feeling to be driving to work every morning while you hear everyone on the radio gossiping about the show YOU are working on. Plus, the chance to make new friendships is always a plus in my book! Now....onto the next adventure! Disney, here I come!

Just Another Day

Today at work, I was shot in the face will silly string.  The entire episode was recorded with a special slow-motion camera.  In case you are curious, it was done because we were testing the effects of silly string in slow motion on a person's face.  The video is below.  Enjoy!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Tonight, in the midst of all the crazy things happening at work, I was able to take a night off to enjoy, relax, and celebrate my birthday!  I joined a few friends and colleagues of mine for a few rounds of bowling and it was a lovely time.  Check out some pictures of my friends who came out to celebrate with me!

Aaron is a good friend of mine.  We met during a summer film camp the year before I moved to LA.

Jermaine and I work at the Red Cross together and have also been able to share adventures in the entertainment industry with one another, as well.

Here's another friend who's name is Aaron.  This funny guy works with me on DWTS!

When it rains, it pours...

There's a saying that goes, "When it rains, it pours".  I feel like that phrase sums up this industry pretty well.

Over the past two weeks, I've been offered a chance to work on four different shows.  Sadly, I've had to decline all of them because I'm already working on a show.  Most of the gigs I have had to pass up have been jobs that would only last a week or so (new pilots that are filming, etc...).  While they would have been fun to work on and cool experiences for the resume, it is what it is.  But there's was one offer that came across the table that was a little tough to pass up.

Alas, I like to think that everything happens for a reason.  I will continue to remain committed to the show I'm on now.  I don't want to be one of "those guys" who jumps around from show to show and is never loyal.  From what I've heard, that's NOT the way to get ahead in this industry!

Here's hoping I keep getting those calls after my current gig ends!

I'm going to Disney World!

This week, my parents, a ton of family and friends, and my roommate are all at Disney World.  I haven't been to the resort since 2005, and it's totally time to go back.

This December, I am FINALLY taking a vacation!  It's going to be a trip on a small budget, but words cannot describe how excited I am to go back and experience all the magic that makes Disney World feel like a second home.  I am also extremley anxious to meet up with some long lost friends that I haven't seen in over seven years!

Is it December yet?!?!  :)

Here's a quick blast from the past - a picture of me at Disney in 2005.

The World's Largest Potato!

Today, I pulled into the parking lot at work to find The World's Largest Potato!  Is that crazy or what?!

California NEVER ceases to amaze me!

ANTM is Coming Back!

I have GREAT news today!  I just learned that America's Next Top Model has been renewed for a 20th Season!  This is a huge accomplishment for the hard working cast and crew that have been making magic on this show for years.  A big congrats to all my friends and colleagues who work the show.  I am looking forward to coming back for another great season early next year! :)

Happy Mid-Season!

It's hard to believe, but we have already reached the half way point of our season.  This show seems like a blur because it's going so fast!

Last night, the cast and crew had a chance to celebrate during Tom Bergeron's annual mid-season party.  It was a wonderful party held at a super hip and trendy restaurant in Hollywood.

Highlight of the Evening:  Getting a picture with 'Uncle Tom'.  It was a great night that will not soon be forgotten!  Here's hoping the second half of the season goes just as great as the first!

2nd On-Air Credit

A few months ago, I was proud to show everyone my first official on-screen TV credit on "The Bachelorette".  Sadly, they mis-spelled my last name, but it was still pretty cool.

Now, I am thrilled to show off my SECOND official on-screen credit from my new show, "Dancing with the Stars".  Best of all -- they spelled my name right this time!  :)

Check it out!

Dancing with the Stars: All Stars

Well, folks! It's official!  I am pleased to announce today that I am the newest member of the "Dancing with the Stars" family!  I'll be working with their production team this cycle on what is bound to be their biggest season yet!  Check out the teaser trailer for the upcoming season, and be sure to set your DVR!!

A New Car

About a week ago (practically 5 years to the date that I moved out to LA), my old mini van broke down.  The 'man van', as many called it, gave me five really great years out here.  I wasn't really planning on getting a new car JUST yet, but in LA, if you don't have a car, you are practically a second class citizen.

I am happy to announce today that I have found a new car!  It's a Saturn Vue, and so far, I love it!  I must give a special shout out to everyone who helped me through this unique experience which I hope I will not be going through again ANY time soon.  My parents are the best, and they helped support me so I could make this move :)  John Boswell is also a fantastic friend who's opinion on these things I value greatly.  It's nice to have support when you are making major life decisions!  Here's hoping this car lasts at least another 5 years!

Check it out :)

Happy 5 Year Anniversary!

Hello, everybody!! Boy, it's been a while since I posted a blog! I'm sorry to all of you that check often hoping for a new update. Part of the reason I have not been blogging lately is because this has been one of my busiest years ever! I am thankful and very blessed to have had some great gigs come my way since the start of 2012. 

Today, I celebrate my 5 Year Anniversary in Los Angeles. It's hard to believe that it's already been 5 years since I moved away from Milwaukee to this crazy city we call Los Angeles. When I first moved out here, I knew nobody. I quickly found ways to get my 'foot in the door', and I remember meeting a friend who worked with one of the studios in town. He told me, "If you can make it past your first year, you are in good shape. If you can make it five years, you can be here for a lifetime". The phrase really stuck with me, and I often share it with my friends that move to LA. In my five years here, I have seen so many of my friends come and go. Many leave because LA is so different and they are not used to the big change. Others leave because they think it's too hard. And sometimes, people leave in search of other opportunities. 

That being said, one thing remains the same. I am still here and still moving strong. I wasn't sure if I would make it 5 years in this city. I wasn't sure of anything, really. I've had so many wonderful opportunities and experiences, and I have received an overwhelming amount of exposure in this industry. I am not a household name, nor am I making big paychecks, but I feel like I am well on my way. I love this industry. I have seen every side of this city, worked for a variety of television shows, appeared on numerous shows, met countless celebrities, produced and directed my own projects, traveled with work, and even started my own camp. I am thankful every day. I know that not everyone gets the type of opportunities that I have had. I know this could all be taken away in an instant. 

LA has taught me a lot. LA has taught me to appreciate small moments and love big moments like they may never happen again.  Have friends, but make sure they are friends.  Always be willing.  I am not like everyone else and I will never be like everyone else.  I am special and have a lot of talents to be thankful for.  People love my energy and find it irreplaceable.  I can do whatever I want to do.  I can make great decisions.  I am a good teacher.  I am a great friend. I have great friends.  I hate traffic. The list can go on and on! 

I don't have a lot of friends, but the ones I have are amazing. My friends back in Milwaukee that still stick by my side mean the world to me. They know who they are. I am also blessed to have some fantastic friends here in California, too. It's really nice to have people you can trust in an industry where trusting people is often difficult. As always, my family has always been there to support everything, and it, too, means the world to me. 

In a nutshell, hopefully you've had a chance to see what LA has been like for me over the past five years. It has been a wild ride, and I know that I am just getting started. I am thankful every day for the opportunities, and I cannot wait to see what's in store for the future. 

Inhale big, EXHALE BIG! I made it!!!

Happy 5 Year ANNIVERSARY!!!

Live Sitcom Taping Success!

Tonight, the fourth year of my Summer Entertainment Camp came to a close with the taping of two live TV sitcoms.  It was a wonderful event that everyone truly enjoyed.  This historic evening marked the first time scripted material was taped before a live studio audience in the state of Wisconsin by young adults.  Check out our posters for the two different shows:

These sitcom tapings were an opportunity for children from all backgrounds to come together, create a unique story, and share it with the community.  They went from script to screen in just two weeks time. The kids did all the work - creating the scripts, finding the props and costumes, building the sets, running the lights, sound, and cameras, and countless other tasks.  At the end of the evening, our children were confident that what we did this summer was 'rare' and 'cool'.  I couldn't agree more.  These are children with a sense of humor that shows an awareness of the world around them that is authentic.  Unlike a regrettable number of young men and women in their generation, these kids embrace and thrive on hard work.  Their eagerness to learn and deployment of learning means they are ready and most able to succeed.

The taping of "The Robert and Rosie Show" before a live studio audience!

Sarah Kick and Valerie Lighthart have a conversation on camera while Miranda Campagna records.

It was great to see our live studio audience enjoying the evening just as much as the kids on stage.  I think audience-goers found it special to see such a unique event happening in Milwaukee.  My camp (and these sitcoms) proved to the community that you don't need big budgets and famous movie stars to create a successful project that brings people together.  Everything you need can be found right in your own backyard.  I've watched these kids go from script to screen and inspire a hometown with their initiative and ability to lead.  This young generation is showing that they can rise to the challenge of tomorrow.  

One of our campers, Brooke Briesemeister, operates a camera for the sitcom.

Camper Kyle Johnston chooses between shots for the live sitcom.

Tonight was a great reminder that hard work always pays off.  It's hard to believe I've been offering this camp for FOUR years already.  A lot of people have asked what's next, and to be honest, I'm not really sure.  But in any case, here's hoping whatever comes next is JUST as awesome! :)

Walt Disney Imagineering

Today, I had the honor of speaking at Walt Disney Imagineering.  To say it was awesome would be an understatement :)

For those who may not know, Walt Disney Imagineering (also known as WDI) is the design and development arm of the Walt Disney Company, responsible for the creation and construction of Disney theme parks worldwide.  Founded by Walt Disney himself in 1952 to oversee the production of Disneyland in California, it was originally known as WED Enterprises - from the initials of Walter Elias Disney.  The term "Imagineering" was popularized to describe the blending of imagination and engineering.

Imagineering is responsible for designing and building Disney theme parks, resorts, cruise ships, and other entertainment venues at all levels of project development.  Imagineers often possess a broad range of skills and talents, and thus over 140 different job titles fall under the banner of Imagineering -- including illustrators, architects, engineers, lighting designers, show writers, graphic designers, and countless more.  Most Imagineers work from the HQ facility in Glendale, California, where I was today.

Days like today keep me going forward strong and with full speed!  Who could have imagined that I would be speaking to a group of Disney employees at just 23 years old?  Crazy!

Check out the picture below of the awesome event :)

Computer Crash!

I've been home for less than a week, and slowly but surely, I have been unpacking everything from my trip home to Milwaukee.

Today, I had an unexpected glitch that threw me off!  My computer crashed and burned, after faithfully serving me for almost six years.  The good news is that I'm a computer NERD, so I was able to salvage everything off of the computer -- absolutely no data was lost.  The bad news is that, sadly, I have to get a new computer :(

I guess life has it's fair share of ups and downs!  Here's hoping I find an up soon ;)

Pixar In Concert

Last night, I attended a WONDERFUL concert at the Hollywood Bowl called "Pixar in Concert".  The concert was a two-hour tribute to all of the pixar films.  The scores were played by the LA Philharmonic Orchestra and members of the pixar team who actually worked on the original film!  It was great to hear the stories on how some of the most popular movie scores were created.