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My podcast episodes aren’t usually very newsworthy or timely but this week is an exception. Just days after I recorded my interview with Mindy Cohn, news broke about the very thing we discussed-a Facts of Life reboot or reunion.  It wasn’t the main reason why I wanted to interview her but it came up in our conversation and what she told me was surprising.

Apparently Leonardo DiCaprio and Jessica Biel’s production companies have bought the rights to The Facts of Life. Mindy tells us exactly what happened when she and a prominent producer had the idea to reboot the show and took it to Sony. Days later, the rights to TFOL were no longer available and had been snatched up by Leo and Jessica.  She explains it fully in this episode so it’s definitely worth a listen to hear for yourself.

People say I look a lot like Mindy. What do you think?

Mindy and I met at the BGG Acting Studio several years ago and I was immediately drawn to her. Not just because people have compared me to her, several times, but because she’s a natural mentor. She tells me that’s because she was mentored by legends in the business and feels compelled to return the kindness.

CREDIT: NBC-TV/KOBAL/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK

One of her mentors was Charlotte Rae, who not only pushed for Mindy to get the part of Natalie on The Facts of Life, but took her under her wing as she came of age in Hollywood. Charlotte Rae passed away on Sunday, August 5th. We recorded this episode several days before which is why Mindy still talks as if she’s alive. It’s clear Charlotte Rae’s legacy will live on through actors like Mindy, and so on and so on.

THE FACTS OF LIFE — Pictured: (l-r) Nancy McKeon as Joanne ‘Jo’ Polniaczek, Kim Fields as Dorothy ‘Tootie’ Ramsey, Lisa Whelchel as Blair Warner, Mindy Cohn as Natalie Green, Charlotte Rae as Edna Garrett — Photo by: NBC/NBCU Photo Bank

In addition, we also talked about why she still takes acting classes, her secret to longevity in this fickle industry, and where her heart is now. It’s in a charity called Heifer International, an organization that works to end poverty around the world by empowering women and teaching sustainable farming. They have a big fundraiser coming up in October on the backlot of Universal Studios. To find out more information about the event and how you can help, visit www.heifer.org/LA.

When I talk to Mindy I’m reminded of why I love this business. There are actors out there who aren’t just trying to be famous. They have a love for the craft, and are a part of something that sometimes feels unattainable to me. I often feel like an outsider looking into the cool kids of Hollywood, just hoping someone will invite me in to the party. So until that happens, I’m going to keep gleaning all the wisdom I can from those willing to share, and then make my own party.

To hear the rest of my interview with Mindy Cohn, download and subscribe to MIH podcast on iTunes. Don’t forget to leave a review. And make sure you follow Mindy on Twitter @MindyCohn and Instagram @MindyCohn.