Beyond The Script is fun, informative, and tailor-made for TV and Feature writers. We believe it's not necessarily the technical elements of your screenwriting that need to shift to land that six-figure deal - it's mostly about mindset and strategy. We're Steve Harper and Nick Jobe, writers, coaches, and consultants. We've seen clients succeed using the ideas we lay out in this show. That's why we're passing the wisdom on to you. Be warned, we have wildly different perspectives on just about ...
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The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA
Martin Bentsen
Struggling to book your first speaking role in a network-level production? If so, this podcast is for you. You'll learn how to find and sign with great agents, how to start getting access to high-quality auditions, and how to book major union speaking roles. Each episode addresses specific challenges faced by aspiring screen actors, including: - What casting directors are really looking for in screen actors. - How to find and impress legit, high-level agents. - How to build strong industry c ...
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Ep. 138: 11 Mistakes Actors Make When Reaching Out to Acting Agents (And How to Avoid Them!)
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5:10Are you making critical mistakes when reaching out to agents? The wrong approach can shut doors before they even open. Reaching out to agents is a critical step in growing your acting career - but one wrong move can land your email in the trash. In this episode, we uncover the biggest mistakes actors make when pitching themselves and how to avoid t…
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In a media ecosystem polluted with bad news, online vitriol, and political polarization, what is the writer's responsibility to the audience? If we - as writers - continue to churn out dark heroes and revenge story arcs - aren't we part of an ever growing problem? In this episode, Nick and Steve break down whether you should follow the money toward…
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Ep. 137: How to Join SAG-AFTRA FAST Through Non-Traditional Methods (background acting, etc.)
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6:00Want to take your acting career to the next level? Becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible opens doors to bigger roles and better pay. But how can you get there quickly? Many actors struggle with the slow process of landing a union-speaking role, but faster options exist. In this episode, we break down three proven ways to speed up your eligibility. What you'l…
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Ep. 136: Is Your Eyeline Sabotaging Your Acting Auditions? Here is How To Fix It NOW
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6:19Your eyeline can make or break your audition, but many actors don’t realize when they’re getting it wrong. Are you staring too long in one spot? Looking too far off-camera? Or worse - giving "floating eyes" that distract casting directors? In this episode, we go over simple yet powerful techniques to make sure your eyeline enhances your performance…
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Ep. 135: Here's Exactly What Acting Agents are Looking For
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5:46Are you struggling to get an agent or wondering why some actors land representation while others don’t? In this episode, we break down exactly what agents are looking for and how you can stand out in a crowded industry. You’ll discover: The key branding mistake that makes agents overlook talented actors How to present professional materials that ma…
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Ep. 134: A Day in the Life of an Acting Agent (What They Don't Want You to Know)
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9:01Ever wondered what agents actually do all day? If you want to work with an agent who truly supports your career, understanding their daily routine is key. The more you know about how agents manage their time, handle challenges, and build industry relationships, the better you can position yourself to get signed and succeed. In this episode, you’ll …
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Ep. 133: Habits That Will Help You Book Major Acting Roles and Land Great Agents
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9:02What habits set successful actors apart? In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, We explore the hidden habits that help actors grow their careers and increase their chances of signing with great agents. If you're an aspiring screen actor, you’ll discover what separates successful actors from the rest—and how you can adopt these same strategi…
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Ep. 132: Forget Complicated Acting Self-Tapes - Why Keeping It Simple Wins Every Time!
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11:16Are Your Self-Tapes Costing You Roles? Discover the most common mistakes actors make when self-taping and learn how to avoid them to stand out to casting directors. In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, host Martin Bentsen unpacks the major DON’TS of self-tapes, from lighting and sound issues to performance mistakes that could ruin your…
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Ep. 131: 5 Mistakes Actors Make When Choosing Audition Outfits & How to Avoid Them for More Acting Success
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6:38What Should You Wear to Auditions and Self-Tapes to Stand Out? Are you sabotaging your audition without even realizing it? The clothes you wear could make or break your first impression with casting directors! In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, Martin Bentsen reveals how to dress in a way that suggests your character without stealing th…
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Ep. 130: Stop Using Weak Clips in Your Acting Profiles - Here’s How to Choose the Best Ones for More SAG-AFTRA Auditions
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9:16Did you know the acting clips you upload to platforms like Actor's Access can make or break your chance at getting auditions? After reviewing your headshot and resume, casting directors and agents dive straight into your clips—and not all clips are created equal! In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we’re uncovering the secrets to pick…
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Today's episode is all about AI - artificial intelligence - and what it means to TV and screenwriters. When the WGA writers went on strike, AI was among the concerns. Writers became obsessed with what it was and how it works and whether it's useful or not useful for a professional career. Since the strike ended there have been stories in the press …
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Ep. 129: How Mastering the First 5 Seconds of Your Self-Tape Can Transform Your Acting Audition Success
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9:43What makes casting directors turn off your self-tape after just a few seconds? In a world where casting directors watch hundreds of tapes, standing out starts in the very first moments of your audition. If your self-tape doesn’t grab attention immediately, it won’t matter how great the rest is—they won’t stick around to watch it. In this episode, y…
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Ep. 128: 4 Ways Actors Struggle With Self-Tape Prep (And How To Fix Them for More Acting Opportunities)
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14:04How can you be one of the first to submit your self-tape while still making sure it’s high-quality enough to book the role? Submitting self-tapes quickly gives you an edge in auditions, but rushing can lead to lower-quality performances. This episode reveals how to streamline your process so you can act fast and deliver a standout audition: Discove…
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Ep. 127: Does Submitting Early Increase Your Chances? Here's Why Early Self-Tapes Can Boost Acting Opportunities
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5:36Did you know that submitting your self-tape early could be the key to landing your next big role? When casting directors start reviewing submissions, they’re more engaged and excited early on, meaning late submissions might get less attention. Getting your tape in quickly can help you stand out and be remembered: Understand why casting directors of…
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Ep. 126: Are Your Evening Habits Hurting Your Acting Career? Here's How to Fix It
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17:10Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the chaos of your acting career and wish you had a way to reset and recharge each day? This episode explains how nightly rituals can help you de-stress, improve your focus, and stay consistent in your acting goals. Whether you're juggling auditions, learning lines, or managing life’s unpredictability, building the ri…
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Ep. 125: Stop Ignoring Audition Data! The Secret to Getting Bigger Acting Roles
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8:16Have you ever wondered how keeping track of the casting directors you meet could help you land bigger acting roles? This episode explores why tracking auditions is one of the most powerful ways to build strong relationships with casting directors, uncover audition trends, and boost your chances of getting callbacks and bookings: Discover why tracki…
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Ep. 124: Why "First Refusal" Is Good For Your Acting Career, & How To Turn It Into Success
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5:42Ever been told you're on “first refusal” for a role and wondered what it means—or what to do if another opportunity comes up? First refusal is a great sign in your acting career, but managing it wrong can harm your reputation. Learn how to handle this situation professionally and maximize the opportunities it creates: Understand the meaning of firs…
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Ep. 123: How to Leverage Social Media to Book Bigger Film Acting Roles
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16:36Have you ever wondered if social media could be the key to landing bigger acting roles? While it might not seem essential for your acting career, social media is quickly becoming a powerful tool for casting directors to find and evaluate talent, especially for bigger roles. With the right strategies, you can showcase your brand, connect with indust…
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Ep. 122: When to Start Worrying About Social Media in Your Acting Career
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10:42Do you really need to build a social media following to succeed as an actor? While many actors feel pressure to create a big online presence, the truth is, social media isn’t as urgent as you might think. This episode explores when it’s actually useful and how to use it strategically to grow your career without it taking over your life: Learn when …
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Ep. 121: What It Really Means When You Keep Auditioning for the Same Show (And How to Turn it Into More Acting Work)
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9:42Have you ever wondered what it means when you keep getting auditions for the same show but never book the role? This episode dives into why frequent auditions for the same production are a big opportunity and how they show you’re on the right track to booking a role. Learn what casting directors are really looking for and how to make your mark: Und…
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Ep. 120: How to Stand Out From 5,000 Submissions... Audition and Acting Secrets
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12:14The first step to booking more acting roles is understanding the casting process from start to finish. In today’s competitive industry, aligning your headshot, resume, and reel with the role’s breakdown can make or break your chances. Want to know how to stand out from thousands of submissions? This episode gives you the exact roadmap to succeed: D…
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Ep. 119: From Local Theater to Prime-Time TV as a Series Regular: Eddie Ramos Shares his Acting Journey
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37:36What’s the secret to landing bigger roles, like a Series Regular on TV? Eddie Ramos shares how he turned his passion for acting into a thriving career, highlighting the strategies, steps, and lessons he learned along the way. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for your first big break, this episode has tips for you. By tuning in, you’ll lea…
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On today's episode, we're talking about notes. Every TV and Feature writer gets notes - whether in writers' groups or from executives, showrunners, production companies or studios. But what do you do with all that feedback? Notes can make people defensive and emotional. All those comments can shut people down and some are just confusing. Should you…
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Ep. 118: Are Slate Shots Really Optional for Acting Auditions? Here's the Hard Truth
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5:01Are you missing out on auditions because your headshots don’t have slate shots? Casting directors and agents often skip over headshots without slate shots, making it harder to get noticed, even if you’ve spent money on great photos or a polished demo reel. By listening, you’ll discover: Why slate shots are essential for showcasing your personality …
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Ep. 117: How to Upgrade a Background Acting Role into a SAG-AFTRA Speaking Role
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12:07Have you ever wondered how background actors are sometimes able to randomly get offered speaking roles on set? This episode reveals how small, calculated risks and building relationships on set can transform your acting opportunities, even if you start as an uncredited extra. By tuning in, you’ll discover: Professional techniques to stand out subtl…
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Ep. 116: From Stroke Recovery to Acting & Modeling Career: Paulette Szaley's Inspiring Story
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35:28What if you could completely transform your life, no matter your age or the obstacles in your way? This episode dives into the remarkable story of Paulette Szalay, who faced life-changing challenges like extreme weight loss and stroke recovery. Despite these hardships, she redefined her future, becoming a model, actress, and author. Learn how minds…
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Ep. 115: How To Turn a Minor Acting Role Into a Bigger Opportunity... Step by Step
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7:18Have you ever auditioned for a big role only to be offered a much smaller part? What should you do next? Getting downgraded to a smaller role can feel like a setback, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing how to respond can turn a disappointing moment into a career-boosting opportunity. By the end of this episode, you’ll learn: How to communicate effe…
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Ep. 114: Why “Playing It Safe” in Auditions Could Be Sabotaging Your Acting Career
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7:42Did you know that your personality could be the key to booking more acting roles? Casting directors aren’t just looking at talent—they’re also considering personality to see if you’re the right fit for the role and the team. In this episode, we’ll dive into how being authentic, confident, and friendly can set you apart, making casting directors eag…
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Ep. 113: The Secret Steps Casting Directors Take When Choosing Who to Invite to Acting Auditions – What You Need to Know
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10:28Ever wondered exactly how casting directors decide who gets an audition? Today, you’ll learn what they look for—and how you can make sure you stand out. Casting directors sort through hundreds of submissions in seconds, relying on a few key factors to pick the most promising actors. Understanding their process can help you craft your submission so …
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Ep. 112: Unlocking the Secret to Memorable Performances and WAY More Acting Auditions – Mastering the "Likability Factor"
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11:35Want to know the secret to delivering performances that casting directors remember? It’s called "The Likability Factor," and it can make a HUGE difference. In today’s competitive acting world, being likable—both in and out of character—is essential. The Likability Factor is all about making your character relatable, which draws audiences in and lea…
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Ep. 111: 3 Ways Struggling Film Actors Can Find Acting Work and Auditions... Despite Low Industry Production Rates
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11:17Are you struggling to find acting gigs during the industry’s current slowdown? You don’t have to sit on the sidelines—there are ways to keep building your career right now! With production down by 40% in LA and about 20-30% in New York as of late 2024, the competition for roles is fiercer than ever. But there are still smart moves you can make to g…
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Ep. 110: Major Red Flags That Will Make Film Acting Agents Pass on You – And How To Avoid Them
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37:02Ever wondered what talent agents really look for when signing actors? Get insider tips from Valerie Adami, a seasoned New York talent agent! Valerie Adami brings a wealth of experience from her journey in musical theater, commercials, voice-over, and soap operas, to her role as a talent agent. She knows what makes an actor stand out—and what doesn’…
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Ep. 109: Is Your Agent Actually Helping You? Why a Manager Could Get You MORE Film Acting Auditions
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7:00Are you wondering if an agent or manager could help you land more auditions? The answer might surprise you! Knowing whether an agent or manager is better for your career depends on your goals and where you are in your acting journey. Many actors start with one, then add the other once they’re booking more frequently. But as casting trends shift as …
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Ep. 108: Build a Thriving Acting Career & Get More Auditions - Interview with Rahti Gorfien
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45:55Ever feel like balancing creativity with life’s demands is an impossible juggling act? Rahti Gorfien, a coach specializing in helping creatives, knows firsthand how challenging it can be to stay organized, visible, and profitable, especially for those with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits. In this episode, she shares insights drawn from her own …
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Ep. 107: Get More Film Acting Auditions by Creating a Stage Name
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9:46Ever wondered if using a stage name could boost your acting career? Whether you're running into name conflicts, need to stand out online, or just want a fresh start, a stage name might be a good choice. Understanding the why and how behind stage names can help you make the best decision for your career: Discover the main reasons actors choose stage…
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Ep. 106: Improve Your Acting Mindset & Strategy - Interview with Andrew Roth
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27:57Ever feel like acting is one endless series of auditions, with rejections piling up? How do some actors push through and keep going, even when success feels out of reach? In today's episode, Martin Bentsen interviews Andrew Roth about his challenging journey as an actor. Many actors struggle with rejection, self-doubt, and the pressure of comparing…
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Ep. 105: How to Request an "Audition & Submissions Report" Without Offending Your Film Acting Agent
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6:58Wondering how to ask your agent for a submissions report without making things awkward? By following the right steps, you can avoid offending them and improve your career strategy by understanding which productions you’re being submitted to. Learn how to ask for a submissions report while keeping your relationship with your agent positive. Discover…
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Ep. 104: How to Deal With Unsupportive Family & Friends in Your Film Acting Career
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9:52What should you do when the people closest to you don’t support your acting dream? If you're facing resistance from family or friends who want you to get a "real job," this episode offers advice on how to communicate with them and still pursue your passion. Learn how to turn doubt into understanding and support: Discover how to have productive conv…
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Ep. 103: "The Actor Career Chapters" for a Successful Acting Career, More Film Auditions, and Agents
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7:48What does a successful acting career actually look like from start to finish? If you’re wondering how to go from being a new actor to a well-known name in the industry, this episode gives you a clear roadmap. By following these steps, you can avoid getting stuck and steadily build your career the right way: Learn about the 8 key chapters every acto…
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Ep. 102: How to Stop Being a "Classroom Actor" and Start Booking Real, SAG-AFTRA Acting Auditions
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6:22Are you tired of feeling like a "classroom actor" and ready to start booking real acting jobs? If you've been stuck in acting classes without getting paid work, this episode offers a clear path forward. Learn how to break free from just learning and start acting in actual productions: Discover how to consistently find auditions and get invited to s…
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Ep. 101: Not Hearing Back from Agents for Film Acting When You Submit? Do This.
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7:05Why aren’t you hearing back from agents after you submit your materials? If you’ve been submitting to agents without success, you’re likely missing one or more important elements. Understanding what agents look for and improving your strategy can help you get noticed and start landing roles: Learn why professional marketing materials, like headshot…
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Ep. 100: How to Get Acting Auditions for Any High-Level Television Show
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8:19Want to learn how to land a role on your favorite TV show, no matter how competitive the industry is? Many actors aim for just any role, but targeting specific shows can actually give you a stronger chance of booking roles. In this 100th episode, Martin teaches you how to identify the shows you’re perfect for, build connections with key decision-ma…
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Ep. 99: Becoming a Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor - Leonardo DiCaprio (Titanic)
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5:42Have you ever wondered how Leonardo DiCaprio rose from small TV roles to becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest stars? He faced many challenges before breaking through, which is something every actor can relate to. In this episode, you’ll learn; How DiCaprio got his start and the key element that contributed to his success How he built a close relatio…
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Ep. 98: How to Become SAG-AFTRA Eligible for Bigger Acting Auditions
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6:56Wondering how to become SAG-Eligible and take the next step in your acting career? Becoming SAG-Eligible can be a game-changer for aspiring actors, opening doors to higher-paying roles and better benefits. However, joining too soon can limit your opportunities and increase competition. Today’s episode will show you exactly how to become SAG-Eligibl…
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Ep. 97: Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for New Film Acting Coaches and Classes
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10:09Are you tired of acting classes that feel like a waste of time and money, or worse—ones that leave you feeling even more confused? Many actors struggle with choosing the right acting classes or coaches, often wasting time on programs that don’t improve their skills or even make them worse. But with the right knowledge, you can avoid these pitfalls,…
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Ep. 96: How to Feel More Confident in Cold Readings for Acting Auditions (Interview)
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28:34Do cold readings make you nervous, or do you feel overwhelmed by the fear of messing up during auditions? Many actors struggle with anxiety during cold reads, whether it's due to dyslexia, performance anxiety, or fear of failure. But what if you could learn how to manage those feelings and walk into auditions with confidence? Tom Brooks, an expert …
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Ep. 95: How to Analyze Scripts to Book More SAG-AFTRA Acting Auditions
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8:40Struggling to analyze scripts quickly without overworking yourself? Want to deliver performances that feel natural and compelling? Script analysis is key to creating a believable character, but overanalyzing can make your performance stiff. By focusing on the “Why” behind your lines and avoiding unnecessary decisions about how to act, you can save …
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Ep. 94: Christopher Walken's Secrets to Becoming a World-Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor (Pulp Fiction)
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7:32Ever wonder how Christopher Walken went from dancing in musicals to winning an Academy Award? Christopher Walken didn’t start out as a famous actor—he began as a dancer and worked his way up through small film roles. His unique approach to every role, no matter the size, helped him build a legendary acting career, and there’s a lot you can learn fr…
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Ep. 93: Avoid These Mistakes in the "Training" Section of Your Acting Resume to Get More SAG-AFTRA Auditions
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10:26Do you know which training makes you look impressive on an acting resume—and which could hurt your chances with casting directors? Your acting resume is one of the first things casting directors see, and listing the wrong training could make them doubt your skills. Knowing what to include (and what to leave off) can be the difference between landin…
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Ep. 92: Gene Hackman's Secrets to Becoming a World-Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor (The French Connection)
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7:03Have you ever wondered how someone with no acting experience can rise to the top of Hollywood and win an Academy Award? Gene Hackman wasn’t always a movie star—he began his career later in life after being voted “Least Likely to Succeed” by peers. His story shows that no matter where you start, determination and resilience can lead to big success. …
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