The Subtext Podcast

Jun 12, 2026 — This month, Brian talks to Andrea Stolowitz, a playwright and librettist with dual U.S./German citizenship who talks about her complex relationship with home.

May 15, 2026 — The playwright and director from Hawaii and Nevada discusses ‘Death Play,’ ‘Sumo,’ yearning, loneliness, and the wisdom of accepting loss.

Apr 10, 2026 — The playwright and founding artistic director of a site-specific theatre discusses going from studying computer science at MIT to honing in on his artistry.

Mar 13, 2026 — The playwright, originally from Wisconsin, discusses her company, influences, exposure therapy, and the challenges of being an 'emerging' artist.

Feb 13, 2026 — The playwright, screenwriter, and musician talks about juggling various projects, how to manage the emotional ups and downs in an unpredictable career path, and the value of teaching.

Jan 09, 2026 — The playwright behind ‘Committed’ and ‘Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too August Wilson)’ shares their journey from aspiring corporate defense attorney to playwright.

Dec 12, 2025 — This 10-year anniversary special turns the tables, as playwright Crystal Skillman interviews host Brian James Polak about how his podcast helped him redefine playwriting success.

Nov 14, 2025 — The Brooklyn-based playwright discusses childhood theatre memories in Cincinnati, the continued gender imbalance in the American theatre, and experiences working on iconic projects.

Oct 10, 2025 — A life-changing course with Paula Vogel, San Francisco, post-grad revelations, The Kilroys, joy, and loss on this episode of “The Subtext.”

Sep 12, 2025 — The Bronx-born playwright talks Fornés, trauma-informed writing, and parenthood as a writer.