Encore Michigan, a site dedicated to covering theater in Southeast Michigan, recently launched a twice-monthly podcast series to discuss issues facing the state's professional theaters.

The inaugural podcast, recorded August 6, tackles issues relevant to women working in the local theater scene, and the panel consists of: set and costume designer Monika Essen (whose work is regularly on display at Performance Network); playwright Kim Carney ("Geoffrey and Jeffrey," "The Home Team," "Moonglow"); director/actress Shannon Ferrante (who's previously appeared on stage at the Blackbird Theater and the Network); actress Sarab Kamoo (Heather Raffo's "9 Parts of Desire"); stage manager Megan Buckley; and director/actress/improv performer Jaime Moyer. Ann Arbor director/actor/playwright Barton Bund, founder of the Blackbird Theater, moderates the discussion.

To hear it, visit the Encore Web site.