Stage Combat: A Mental Health Story

Haywood Productions, LLC

Welcome to the groundbreaking podcast series about a leading actor who experiences a mental health crisis at one of the most powerful theatres in the country: The Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, Connecticut.

All told like a true crime podcast.

In 2019, Sean Hayden thought he had booked the role of his dreams at the prestigious Goodspeed in its production of "Billy Elliot, The Musical." As he drove over the Connecticut river and laid his eyes on the fairy tale Opera House for the first time, Sean had no idea what would be looming behind its doors. "Stage Combat: A Mental Health Story" takes the listener into the insular world of the theatre industry in which the unspoken rule is, “You are not supposed to speak up. Or there will be consequences.”

If you thought all the drama happens on stage, wait until you hear what happens after the curtain closes in this immersive listening experience.

In a unique format, each episode is followed by a short “post-show talk back” with Sean and a mental health professional. Together they unpack the issues presented in the episode in provocative conversations about mental health and the theatre industry.

Binge two seasons now!

Coming in 2024:  Stage Combat moves away from the Goodspeed Opera House to showcase YOUR stories in Season 3!


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ArtsArts

Season 2

"Silence"
Jul 25 2023
"Silence"
SEASON TWO PREMIERE!   Season Two, Episode 1.Synopsis: Following his collapse on the Opera House stage, Sean returns to work for the press performance of Billy Elliot.Content warning: contains strong language; depiction of panic attack.Post Show Talk Back:  Clinical psychologist Dr. Alisa Hurwitz discusses with Sean the effect that silence can have on one’s mental health.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.   He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Alisa Hurwitz: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist in group private practice in New Hampshire, specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. Dr. Hurwitz also applies her professional knowledge to consult with theater companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview Broadway actors. You can follow her at drdrama.com and on Instagram @thedrdrama.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"The Memo" / "File: S. Hayden"
Jul 25 2023
"The Memo" / "File: S. Hayden"
Season Two, Episode 2.  SPECIAL DOUBLE EPISODE!Synopsis: A flurry of memos may threaten Sean’s future at the Goodspeed / There’s a file with Sean’s name on it. Content warning: contains strong language.Post Show Talk Back: Clinical psychologist Dr. Alisa Hurwitz chats with Sean about “depersonalization.” Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.   He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Alisa Hurwitz: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist in group private practice in New Hampshire, specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. Dr. Hurwitz also applies her professional knowledge to consult with theater companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview Broadway actors. You can follow her at drdrama.com and on Instagram @thedrdrama.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"The Whistleblower"
Jul 25 2023
"The Whistleblower"
Season Two, Episode 3.Synopsis: Things come to a head during the Friday night performance of Billy Elliot at the Goodspeed.Content warning: contains strong language.Post Show Talk Back: Clinical psychologist Dr. Michelle Sherman and Sean talk about actions theatres can take NOW to support the mental health of their performing artists.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.   He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace.  His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Michelle Sherman earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia and is in private practice in Minneapolis. Dr. Sherman is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and is Board Certified in Couple and Family Psychology. She is also the Editor in Chief of the APA Division 43 (Society of Couple and Family Psychology) journal, Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice. She was recently named the Family Psychologist of the Year by the Society of Couples and Family Psychology of the American Psychological Association. She has published over 75 articles in peer-reviewed journals, has received over $3.2 million in grant funding, and has given several hundred workshops nationally and internationally. Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Rebuttal Is Irrelevant"
Aug 1 2023
"Rebuttal Is Irrelevant"
Season Two, Episode 4.Synposis: Sean experiences the fallout of Chad’s latest allegation.Content warning: contains strong language.Post Show Talk Back: Clinical psychologist Dr. Michelle Sherman talks about the ripple effect of a mental health crisis.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Michelle Sherman earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia and is in private practice in Minneapolis. Dr. Sherman is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and is Board Certified in Couple and Family Psychology. She is also the Editor in Chief of the APA Division 43 (Society of Couple and Family Psychology) journal, Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice. She was recently named the Family Psychologist of the Year by the Society of Couples and Family Psychology of the American Psychological Association. She has published over 75 articles in peer-reviewed journals, has received over $3.2 million in grant funding, and has given several hundred workshops nationally and internationally.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Bucking the System": Rebecca Caine Claims Her Story
Aug 4 2023
"Bucking the System": Rebecca Caine Claims Her Story
BONUS EPISODE!Audiences around the world know actor Rebecca Caine for originating the role of "Cosette" in Les Miserables and as one of the most iconic "Christine Daes" of Phantom of the Opera.   But what many don't know about Rebecca is that she has her own harrowing "Stage Combat" story.  Something that happened to her in the theatre industry almost thirty years ago.For the first time in a podcast interview, Rebecca is "claiming her story" and discussing with Sean Hayden what really happened to her in 1990s in this very special bonus episode.Content warning:  contains strong language.Rebecca Caine is best known for creating the role of Cosette in the original production of Les Miserables at The Royal Shakespeare Company and in London’s West End where she made her debut as Laurie in Oklahoma! And subsequently played the role of Christine with the original company of the Phantom of the Opera, a role she originated at the Canadian Premiere in Toronto. She made her North American operatic debut at the Canadian Opera Company as Lulu, going on to sing a variety of roles there and winning the Dora Mavor Moore Award in the title role of The Cunning Little Vixen. She has gone on to appear in opera, musicals and plays internationally and enjoys an extensive recital and cabaret career, which has taken her to every province and territory in Canada except Quebec, The Yukon and Nunavut.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.
"Subway"
Aug 8 2023
"Subway"
Season Two, Episode 5.Synopsis: The aftershocks of the events at the Goodspeed hit Sean in a hard way.Content warning: contains strong language.Post Show Talk Back: Mental health counselor Imari Hardon (and star of the Tony award winning Broadway production of Avenue Q for five years) chats with Sean about therapy.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace.  His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Imari Hardon is a mental health counselor in New York City.  After closing the Off-Broadway production of the Tony award winning musical, Avenue Q, Imari earned her master's in mental health counseling and wellness and her certification as a psychodramatist.  When she can't be on the stage, Imari is committed to giving back to her communities by advocating for mental health and providing services where there is a need for support. Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Union"
Aug 11 2023
"Union"
Season Two, Episode 6.Synopsis: The Goodspeed responds to the claim.   Sean’s panic and anxiety symptoms start multiplying.Post Show Talk Back: Mental health counselor and trauma therapist Courtney Loving helps us to better understand trauma.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace.  His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Courtney Loving is a licensed clinical professional counsel based in Sun Valley, Idaho.  Her practice focuses on trauma, somatic experiencing, psychosensory healing modalities and psychedelic assisted therapy integration.    She has the unique perspective of having worked as a professional actor.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"The Edge of What You Know"
Aug 15 2023
"The Edge of What You Know"
Season Two, Episode 7.Synopsis: Sean finds an ally and makes a decision about his disorder.Content warning: contains strong language. Post Show Talk Back: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz chats with Sean about the stigma surrounding mental health.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.A special thank you to the incredible voice actors of Stage Combat.This episode is dedicated to Lauren Widner. Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace.  His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Alisa Hurwitz: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist in group private practice in New Hampshire, specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. Dr. Hurwitz also applies her professional knowledge to consult with theater companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview Broadway actors. You can follow her at drdrama.com and on Instagram @thedrdrama.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Deathless"
Aug 18 2023
"Deathless"
Season Two, Episode 8. Synopsis: As legal matters heat up, Sean makes new discoveries about the Goodspeed.Content warning:  strong language; content regarding passive suicidal thoughts.Post Show Talk Back:  Sean and Dr. Alisa Hurwitz have an honest discussion about passive suicidal thoughts.  Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Dr. Alisa Hurwitz: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist in group private practice in New Hampshire, specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. Dr. Hurwitz also applies her professional knowledge to consult with theater companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview Broadway actors. You can follow her at drdrama.com and on Instagram @thedrdrama.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Discovery"
Aug 22 2023
"Discovery"
Season Two, Episode 9. Synopsis: More than two years after Billy Elliot’s final curtain, Sean learns the truth.Post Show Talk Back: Sean chats with actor Brian Sheppard about their shared experience with panic attacks.  Post Show Talk Back Content Warning: contains a discussion about passive suicidal thoughts. Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"The Eleven O'Clock Number"
Aug 25 2023
"The Eleven O'Clock Number"
Season Two, Episode 10.Synopsis: Sean deals with the aftermath of learning what really happened behind the scenes at the Goodspeed. Post Show Talk Back: Mental health counselor Courtney Loving and trauma specialist discusses complex post-traumatic stress disorder with Sean.A special thank you to the voice actors of Stage Combat!Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Courtney Loving is a licensed clinical professional counsel based in Sun Valley, Idaho.  Her practice focuses on trauma, somatic experiencing, psychosensory healing modalities and psychedelic assisted therapy integration.    She has the unique perspective of having worked as a professional actor.Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.
"Finale"
Aug 29 2023
"Finale"
Season 2, Episode 11.  SEASON FINALE!Synopsis: Sean finds himself at a crossroads. Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Consulting Producer, Ian Southwood of Southwood Productions, LLC.Special thanks to:The incredible voice actors of Stage Combat!Rebecca Caine appearing as herself.Theatre People PodcastStage Whisper PodcastThe Drama PodcastBeltline to Broadway PodcastTalk Radio EuropeSean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.  ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues.
“No Time To Panic”: Sean Chats with ABC News’ Matt Gutman
Sep 18 2023
“No Time To Panic”: Sean Chats with ABC News’ Matt Gutman
BONUS EPISODE! Most people know ABC News' Chief National Correspondent Matt Gutman as a fearless war correspondent who regularly contributes to World News Tonight with David Muir, Good Morning America, 20/20 and Nightline.   But behind that fearless persona, Matt was carrying a secret:  a history of debilitating panic attacks that he suffered with for over twenty years. In this bonus episode, Sean and Matt talk about their shared history of panic attacks and Matt's own remarkable mental health journey which he documents in his new book, No Time to Panic: How I Curbed My Anxiety and Conquered a Lifetime of Panic Attacks.   Matt's book is the first selection of the Stage Combat Book Club! Be sure to get your copy today and let's talk about it on Stage Combat! Hosted  by Sean HaydenEdited by Robert Mallory and Alex Griffitt.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Directed by Sean Hayden. Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Matt Gutman is ABC News’s chief national correspondent. A multi-award winning reporter, Gutman contributes regularly to World News Tonight with David Muir, 20/20, Good Morning America, and Nightline. He has reported from fifty countries across the globe and is the author of The Boys in the Cave: Deep Inside the Impossible Rescue in Thailand.  His new book, No Time to Panic: How I Curbed My Anxiety and Conquered a Lifetime of Panic Attacks, is out now.  He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two children.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.  ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues.
“Creating Stage Combat”: Sean and Ian Unpack
Oct 24 2023
“Creating Stage Combat”: Sean and Ian Unpack
BONUS EPISODE! Sean and his husband Ian (yes that "Ian" from Stage Combat) recap what went into creating and writing 20 episodes of Stage Combat and how the saga of the Goodspeed impacted them as a couple.  PLUS there's a mystery guest joining the discussion!Spoiler Alert: Contains spoilers for Seasons 1 and 2 of Stage Combat: A Mental Health StoryEdited by Robert Mallory and Alex Griffitt.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Directed by Sean Hayden Produced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.  ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues
One Episode/One Listener: Pamela
Nov 7 2023
One Episode/One Listener: Pamela
BONUS EPISODE!   "One Episode/One Listener: Pamela"We had an amazing idea for a podcast episode.  What if you could overhear a raw, honest conversation between Sean and one listener.   In one episode. Meet Pamela Bob.   She's a veteran of several Broadway shows who reached out to us once the podcast was released to let us know how much the podcast has meant to her.  Pamela and Sean started talking, and then they just kept talking.  About what's seriously wrong with our industry:  Being denied a voice.  Bullying.  The imposition of "family" constructs.  Being labeled "difficult."   The lack of mental health support in our workspaces.And it's quite a conversation!Spoiler Warning:  "Relatively" spoiler free for Seasons 1 and 2. Edited by Justin Gerrish and Alex Griffitt.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Directed by Sean HaydenProduced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Pamela Bob is a multi-faceted actor, having appeared as an actor regionally and in multiple off-Broadway and Broadway shows. As an award-winning screenwriter and actor, her original series, "Livin' On a Prairie", is a witty, surprising, and earnest exploration of one woman’s obsession with Little House on the Prairie. The show was an official selection of the Tribeca TV Festival, HollyWeb Fest, and Lift-Off Fest, and won best TV series at the LA International Film Fest. Pamela’s trademark intensity and comedic timing won her the Best Actress award at the LA International Film Festival. Pamela is also a professional makeup and hair artist and photographer. She lives in NYC with her husband and 2 kids.www.PamelaBob.com@thepamelabobwww.livinonaprairietv.com@prairietv@wdymakeup@wdyphotographySean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.  ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues
“You Have No Power Over Me”: Sean and Dr. Hurwitz Revisit Stage Combat
Nov 28 2023
“You Have No Power Over Me”: Sean and Dr. Hurwitz Revisit Stage Combat
BONUS EPISODE. Sean chats with Dr. Alisa Hurwitz, the clinical psychologist who helped us all keep it together in Stage Combat's post show talk backs.  As we all struggled to process Sean's story of what really happened behind the scenes at the Goodspeed Opera House, you let us know that you appreciated Dr. Hurwitz's  voice of reason, words of compassion and her unique way of "telling it like is."  Let's recap two seasons of Stage Combat with Dr. Hurwitz and get to know a little more about her in the process!Spoiler Warning:  Contains spoilers for Seasons 1 and 2 of Stage Combat.Content warning: Strong language. Edited by Justin Gerrish and Alex Griffitt.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Directed by Sean HaydenProduced by Haywood Productions, LLC.Dr. Alisa Hurwitz: Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist in group private practice in New Hampshire, specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. Dr. Hurwitz also applies her professional knowledge to consult with theater companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview Broadway actors. You can follow her at drdrama.com and on Instagram @thedrdrama.Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees. He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.   Follow us:Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastigFacebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4dTikTok  StageCombatthePodcastEmail us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.comRate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.comClaim Your Story!Mental Health Resources:The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.  ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues
The Stage Combat Holiday Special!
Dec 12 2023
The Stage Combat Holiday Special!
We’re closing out 2023 and an amazing Season 2 of Stage Combat with a holiday bang!It’s THE STAGE COMBAT HOLIDAY SPECIAL! Get your Santa mug out and fill it with hot chocolate and settle in. We’ve got an hour of holiday music and stories as Sean pops around the country to share  holiday greetings with some of our favorite guests from two seasons of Stage Combat!No matter what holiday you celebrate, let’s celebrate each other!And there’s a special announcement about Stage Combat at the end of the episode!Special thanks to Rebecca Caine, Courtney Loving, Alex Griffitt, Ellen Warner, Dr. Alisa Hurwitz, Brian Sheppard, LaQuet Sharnell Pringle, Dr. Michelle Sherman, Ian Southwood.Content note:  We were so excited chatting about the movie White Christmas in this episode  that we  erroneously stated Donald O’Connor starred with Bing Crosby in the film. Thanks to listener Abby for pointing out that  it was actually the incredible Danny Kaye!Hosted by Sean HaydenEdited by Justin Gerrish and Alex Griffitt.Podcast icon designed by Fran Pinter-Parrott.Directed by Sean HaydenProduced by Haywood Productions, LLC. Sean Hayden is the CEO of Haywood Productions, LLC.  As a professional actor, Sean has appeared in two Broadway national tours and in plays and musicals in theaters across the country.    He is a proud union member of Actors' Equity Association.  As a mental health advocate, Sean has provided thought leadership on how employers can better support the mental health of their employees and how theatre programs can support their students.  He serves on the advisory board for HR.com for Mental Health and Stress in the Workplace. His op-ed on “Men and Mental Health” appeared in The Economic Times.   Sean resides in New York City and upstate New York with his husband, a screenwriter.      Follow us: Instagram  instagram.com/stagecombatthepodcastig Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089296591562&mibextid=LQQJ4d TikTok  StageCombatthePodcast Email us:  stagecombatthepodcast@gmail.com  Rate, review and follow us on your podcast platform!  Sign up for the Stage Combat newsletter and listen to episodes online at stagecombathepodcast.com  Claim Your Story!  Mental Health Resources: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition.  Call the help line at 1 800 950 6264 or text to 62640. If you or someone or know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by simply dialing or texting 988.    ***The content in this podcast should not be considered medical or legal advice.  Please consult with a medical professional for any medical or mental health issues and with an attorney regarding any legal issues

Season 1