Book The Room

In this episode, we're joined by the hilarious and insightful Adam Capriolo who has been performing since grade school, dreaming of the stage from as early as first grade. Together, we dive into the ever-changing comedy landscape, reflecting on how the lack of funding for writers and shifting industry trends have impacted the genre we all miss so much. From starting out as an actor at 18 to landing a role on The Bold Type and leveraging it for career-changing opportunities, Adam shares how small, unexpected projects often bring the most joy—proving that bigger doesn't always mean better. He opens up about the unique challenges of acting: the uncertainty of long-term roles, the insecurity of waiting for the next call, and how it can feel like being in an “abusive relationship” with the industry. We also discuss the realities of modern streaming, the pros and cons of serial versus episodic TV, and what networks and streamers are looking for today. Through it all, Adam reminds us to focus on the craft, not the category or the prestige of the studio, and to find fulfillment in the work itself. ✨ Key Takeaways: Don't take yourself—or the industry—too seriously. Your acting career is always evolving; show up with confidence because you belong there! Joy in your work comes from doing your best and letting go of unrealistic expectations. Inner peace is priceless, and leaving a legacy doesn't require being Brad Pitt. This episode is a refreshing, grounded take on staying true to yourself in a business that can be unpredictable and overwhelming. Laugh with us, reflect with us, and leave feeling inspired to find joy in every step of your creative journey! GUEST: Adam Capriolo Haus of Marc: https://www.hausofmarc.com/adam-capriolo IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5924611/ Resurrection! at the Centaur Theatre: https://centaurtheatre.com/box-office/events/

Do you really need to know how to ski to land that Hallmark movie? Not necessarily! In this episode, we break down when special skills truly make a difference in booking a role. From leads in skiing-centric films (spoiler: it's about your performance, not your slopes skills) to supporting roles in a gymnastics school scene where real ability is key, we'll help you navigate how to market your talents. Tune in for insights on submitting smart, standing out, and understanding what casting directors prioritize when it comes to special skills.

In the room today, Suzanna and Jess talk all about getting kids into the business. Jess talks first hand how her nephew and niece got into acting and auditioning. Listen to hear tips and tricks and some insider info on how to get started and if you or your kids have the right personality for it

In this episode, we chat with Alba Gil, an amazing director and filmmaker whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how she moved to Canada from Mexico with a background in advertising and had to start from scratch in Montreal. From working as an assistant director to production manager to finally becoming a director, her story is all about resilience and determination. We talk about some of her big moments—like her directing debut while breastfeeding her five-month-old baby (with a super supportive team behind her!) and how a trip back to Mexico for a female directors' panel changed everything. That trip reconnected her with her roots, and before she knew it, she was working on Netflix's Triada. She also opens up about navigating a male-dominated industry, finding her authentic leadership style, and the internal work it took to trust herself, think big, and take bold chances. It's a story of embracing who you are, breaking barriers, and carving your own path. Let's get into it! Alba Gil: https://www.alba-gil.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albagil/

In the room today, Suzanna and Jess bring us up to speed on how their year went. From Suzanna signing with a new agent and diving deeper with her students to Jess' projects (Karate Kid, Plan B Season 3 and Prophet of Ecstasy). Suzanna expresses the importance of timing when it comes to signing with a new agent and even booking a role on a series. Just because it hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it isn't going to. Let's get into it

In the room today is Kenny Wong, an award-winning screen writer, actor and violinist. Kenny tells us about how he got into acting after a devastating diagnosis during his time at McGill University in the music performance program. He gets in to how he made that transition, the work he put in and the dedication he had to achieving his goals. Kenny also tells us how he turned his diagnosis in to a script, which went on to win many awards! We hear about how he signed with his first and current agents, his highs and lows, auditions and bookings. Kenny also tells us about his experience on NBC's Transplant where he played the recurring role of Arnold for 4 seasons! He also shares some great tips for actors. Kenny is charismatic, driven, talented and has an amazing work ethic. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about the realities of working on big projects that sound exciting to "non-actors" vs. working on smaller indie projects that are more fulfilling. We get into talking to your family who doesn't quite understand how the industry works about your work as an actor and what they mean. Let's get in to it!

In the room today is Hannah Antaki, casting associate and director. She has worked with different casting directors in Toronto and she is here to debunk all of the myths of the Toronto casting process. HINT - we are the same! We get into everything from submissions to selections, from prep to wardrobe and from agents to networking. We also get to hear a bit about the latest project she's working on, Law & Order: Criminal Intent. Hannah answers a lot of your burning questions. She's realistic, honest, nice and approachable! Let's get into it :) LINKS Suzanna's online course: ⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠ FOLLOW US YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠  Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess get into different approaches to casting after having spoken to Toronto Casting Director, Hannah Antaki (episode out Nov. 23). We talk about the pros and cons of Zoom and self-tape auditions, reiterate that the auditions are auditions and NOT workshops and if you do decide to expand to Toronto, understand how competitive it is - but don't be deterred! Let's get into it! Suzanna's online course: ⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠ FOLLOW US YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠  Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess talk about the stress and realities of being a day player on a series. We give you tips on how to prepare and ease the nerves a bit. We also preview Thursdays episode with the great Anik Matern, actor, coach, healer! Let's get into it! FOLLOW US YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠  Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910 Suzanna's online course: ⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠

Suzanna and Jess talk about the realities of local casting and how it doesn't always go to locals! So if it doesn't go to locals, what's stopping YOU from auditioning for projects that are out of your city? Let's get into it. Suzanna and Jess talk about the realities of local casting and how it doesn't always go to locals! So if it doesn't go to locals, what's stopping YOU from auditioning for projects that are out of your city? Let's get into it.Suzanna's class:⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠ FOLLOW US!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess take a deeper look into networking and it's importance and how inter-connected everyone is. Jess chats a bit about her experience casting Plan B, what she feels we can work on and what is working well. Suzanna and Jess also share their predictions of whats to come over the next few months. Can you guess what it is? Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about the importance of being aware of your physicalities in a scene. Are you aware of tiks you have? Suzanna gives tips on how to overcome them, and to take the down time to rehearse and become critical of those ticks

In the room today is Montreal's Talent Agent, Tania Giampetrone. She has been working with Reisler Talent for over 20 years...so she's seen A LOT and knows a thing or two! A recurring theme that came up was the partnership between an actor and agent. She bases her relationships on trust, honesty and respect and communication is #1. We get into how it's important to adapt to be successful, networking, and giving your agent the best tools so they can promote you, oh and did we day communication? Tania covers so much and gives us such great tips, advice and information. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about the importance of growing and maintaining good relationships in the industry. We talk about what works and what doesn't and the difference between networking, the business of acting and PR. Can anything guarantee you the role? Let's get into it! LINKS Suzanna's online course: https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING FOLLOW US YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos  Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

In the room today are actors and sought-after writing duo; Erica Deutschman and Katy Breier! We discuss their start into acting; the real struggle of taking a bus to and from Toronto for in person auditions (before self-tapes), living in a house full of actors and the cost of booking as a local. We then get into how they've become so successful as a writing duo, selling 11 scripts, how they became writing partners and where they are headed. They give amazing acting, writing and life advice. They are charming and funny - let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess preface this weeks later episode with Erica and Katy. They are actresses and a sought-after writing duo. When they recount their journey, all seems to be quite easy and flowy but we are here to recount some of their struggles that we spoke about after recording! Not everything is as easy as it seems, there is no such thing as an overnight success and things take time, and experience! Let's get into it!

In the room today is Holly Gauthier-Frankel who is an actor, singer, burlesque dancer and award-winning voice actor and director working in this industry for 30 years! Holly is a brave artist who has self-funded and self-generated so many projects. She's taken the leap and taken lots of risks, pushed through insecurities throughout her entire career. She has diversified, and is very candid with her ups and downs, mistakes she's made but has always come out on top! She is very inspiring. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about their own experience with imposter syndrome and how they overcame it.

In the room today is one of Canada's most renowned voice directors and actors, Richard M. Dumont. He has director over 500 projects; from top rated video games such as Avatar and Assassin's Creed Origins, to hit animation shows such as Miramax's, "Little Twins" and Gwen Stefani's "KuuKuu Harajuku". We learn about his past and how he got into this industry. What is very inspiring is his positive attitude, how he found opportunity everywhere and his love of work. Let's get into it!

In the room today, Suzanna and Jess discuss some big points that this weeks guest, Richard M. Dumont brings up. We dive into being optimistic, seeing opportunity everywhere and that it's OK to self-promote! Let's get into it :)

In our season 2 premiere episode, Suzanna and Jess recap their summers and things they are currently working on. We also get into the elephant in the room...the WGA (Writers Guild of America) and SAG (Screen Actors Guild) strikes. We discuss what the strikes are about, the realities of how it affects us, what we can do and what to expect. Suzanna's Online On-Camera Acting Class: https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos  Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess are wrapping it up for the holiday season. We will be back in the New Year with more episodes! Today we discuss the lack of funding for Canadian television and films, how reliant we are on the US to boost our industry and self-tape burn out. We discuss our goals for the podcast, our careers and personal growth. Let's get into it!

In the room today is acting coach and actor, Anik Matern. We discuss her early years as an actor from murder mysteries, to life in France to running the very successful Dynamic Theatre Factory (DTF). We get into her style of teaching which is a beautiful combination of improv and her spiritual beliefs. Anik also tells us about her latest experience on set as an acting coach and how to balance working with kids, their parents and the director. Anik is such a safe and calming presence, she is very self-aware and reflective and such a joy to speak with. Let's get into it! Suzanna's online course: ⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠ FOLLOW US YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠  Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

In the room today is actor and director, Carlo Mestroni! Carlo shares his stories of his early beginnings in the arts, how he returned after 10 years in the medical field and how he structured his acting career like a business. We get into balancing his work for his family and himself. He explains the importance of analyzing the energy and anxiety you give to a discipline and what is the return on that investment? Carlo has great advice for those just starting out and for anyone who has been working through this industry. Carlo is smart, funny and a great example of a talented working actor in our city. Let's get into it!

In the room today is actor, Moe Jeudy Lamour who plays Thierry Zoreaux on the Emmy award winning show, Ted Lasso. We hear stories about how he grew his relationship with Jason Sudeikis, his move from Montreal to Vancouver, Toronto and LA, his first theatre experience and filming a scene with Bruce Willis! We hear how the advice from Orlando Jones, Josh Hopkins and Hugh Jackman made a huge impact on his career. There is so much, let's get into it! MOE JEUDY LAMOUR IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3907801/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moethursdaylove/?hl=en BOOK THE ROOM Links YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos  Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess recap the highlights of season 1 and what they took away from it. We assess and look at our intentions and if we reached them or not. We want to thank all of our guests this season for their generosity in sharing so much of themselves and their experiences and advice. We want to thank our listeners for tuning in and for sharing their feedback! We will be back with new episodes in September for season 2 !! FOLLOW / LIKE / SHARE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

In the room today is Lorna Kidjo, who is an actor, director, writer and all around storyteller! We dive deep into how she got her film made, the different funding programs and what each institution looks for. Lorna tells us about all of her different jobs within the industry and how helpful they were to her when it came time to get her projects made. We talk about the importance of experience, asking for help and determination. Lorna tells us about her project, Oversight, how she got it made, the mistakes she'll never make again and her inspiration. She too is a believer in creating a full life and having passions equal to acting to maintain a healthy mindset. The best way to learn is by just doing and making it work along the way. Let's get into it! GUEST: Lorna Kidjo Website: https://stellarcollisioninc.wixsite.com/scfilms IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6606527/

Suzanna and Jess talk about their part time jobs when they were younger and the different paths you can take. They discuss the pros and cons of working within your field and things to keep in mind. Let's get into it!

In the room today is the talented and successful Tristan D. Lalla. We get into the importance of sticking to the things you love and knowing who you are and what your voice is. We get the exclusive story on how he got his role in How She Move which launched his impressive career. From voicing over 100 video games to having 3 recurring roles currently on air (Animal Control FOX, Ghosts CBS, Pretty Hard Cases CBC, Nurses NBC). How energy is EVERYTHING, so you got to show up, be ready and do good work. Tristan tells us how working with Charlize Theron reminded him that all of these celebrities are humans too and to maintain a sense of play. There is a ton of great advice, insight and inspiration. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk share some updates on their latest manifestations when it comes to their work and careers and share some that have already come to fruition. Let's get into it!

In the room today is veteran actor Christian Paul. Christian has been acting for years in both English and French. We dive into his early days as a tennis pro and how his athlete mindset has supported his acting career. We discuss some of the major changes that have taken place in the industry over the years, from self tapes to stereotypes to the union and more. Christian also talks about the self tape bubble, globalization, and how much power and agency you have over your career. He also shares how he embraces the hard times, because it makes him face reality so he can build himself back up. The conversation is real, insightful and inspiring, let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about bold choices, what we mean by them and some examples. Jess also shares a story where there was a nutty surprise in one of her self tapes! Let's get into it.

In the room today is comedian and actor Akeem Hoyte-Charles. We talk about how the arts and entertainment was actually his plan B, the support he got from his friends and family and how he bombed his first show. Akeem explains how his comedy makes him a better actor and vice versa. He has booked a lot and has had a lot of success as a comedian without doing 1 acting class or going about things in the traditional way. He's an anomaly, a rebel and his energy is contagious! Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about the advantages and disadvantages of working in different cities. After speaking with many successful actors, many have spent time outside of Montreal and talk to us abut their experiences and how it's helped them. We discuss the realities of how long it might take, when to make the move and when to know to come back. Let's get into it!

In the room today is Simon Peacock; improv master, writer, actor and voice director, also president of ACTRA Montreal. He gives us all of the scoop on voice work in Montreal. From dubbing to animation and video games. He boasts about how much talent we have here in Montreal, specifically in the voice world, how dubbing has almost quadrupled in the city and how everything is cyclical. He talks about the importance of knowing and understanding the genre of project you are reading for, your ability to have fun and being great at cold reading. AND why you shouldn't lie about which accents you can do, because you WILL be tested! There is so much great information in this episode. Let's get into it

We share some insights on self tapes and reasons why casting asks for certain formats. If you understand the reasons why, you may be less likely to forget or ignore the instructions :) Let's get into it!

Today in the room is one of Montreal's most sought-after talent agents, Cha Cha da Vinci! She tells us about her past as a dancer and performer and how she walked away from that to become an agent. Cha has a beautiful understanding of actors and the industry because she was in it as a performer herself. She knows what it takes to be successful and how to read new talent. She shares all of these great tips and insider info on the business of acting, when to push and to always be prepared for that million dollar phone call. She was a blast to talk to and her insights are amazing. Let's get in to it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about the importance of a good attitude from the auditions to set and all in between. Put yourself in the shoes of the casting director or director - are you someone they would want to work with and be around for the next X number of days / weeks / months? Always be yourself; but remember to be professional and decent. Let's get into it!

In the room today is actor, writer, producer, Jesse Camacho. You may recognize him from Netflix's Locke and Key, HBO Canada's, Less Than Kind or hear his voice in Agent Binky; Pets of the Universe. We talk about his early days as a kid actor, how he got into acting and his first few auditions and bookings. We hear fun stories of Jesse in Suzanna's class with all of the "cool kids" and how they've all achieved such success since. We get to hear Jesse's first hand experience from booking the lead to shooting HBO's Less Than Kind. We discuss the difference between your job as a lead vs a recurring role and how nerves don't every really go away and he shares some of his pre-audition routines. He is a really humble actor who is simply just passionate about his craft and work.

Suzanna and Jess talk about the importance of reading the room. To understand your role in this production puzzle, where you stand, how far you can go and when to leave!

In the room today is the talented Amber Goldfarb. You may recognize her from the popular Ubisoft game, Assassin's Creed, as well as the multiple film and TV roles such as, Bellevue, Les Moments Parfaits, The Bold Type and Sex/Life. She tells us when she knew she wanted to be an actor, the space her mom gave her to figure this journey out on her own terms, getting beat up from theatre school and working to get her confidence back. We talk about the importance of trusting your gut, investing in all areas of your life while remaining ambitious and how important timing is in your acting career. We get into her experience in the CFC Actor's conservatory and one of her latest roles as Trina on Netflix's Sex/Life. We discuss working with an intimacy coordinator and understanding your boundaries AND how it is OK to reassess what your definition of success is - because there is a big cost to some of the success you think you want. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess talk about normalizing making mistakes, taking the pressure off and practicing how you will recover when you make those mistakes. Practice, self-awareness and preparation are pillars in this. Let's get into it!

In the room today is Maxime Giroux, casting director for feature films, TV and commercials working in both English and French. He tells us how he got into the world of casting and what he loves about working on commercials. Maxime gives us an inside look into what it entails to cast a commercial, everything from pressures from the clients to navigating conflicts with actors. He shares the big differences between casting for commercials vs. TV and film. His insights shed so much light which will help you understand more of what goes into the casting process. His passion for his craft and love and respect for actors shines right through. He is so fun to listen to, let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess share some stories from the start of their careers which leads into some pretty important lessons for auditions and acting in general! Let's get into it.

In the room today is content creator and actor, Nir Guzinski! He shares his ups and downs in acting, how he finds comfort in playing characters, the journey with different social media platforms, how to know your value as an actor and the unsuspecting video that got 2.5 million views!! You don't want to miss this one...let's get into it GUEST: Nir Guzinski Website: https://www.nirguzinski.com/nir-guzinski Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nir_guzinski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjKIZwTxzp5aCvefuYG3Y2Q

How do you figure out what your casting is? We talk about the importance of being self-aware, try different things and surround yourself with people who have your best interests at heart and know you well enough to point out things you may not notice yourself!

Today we have the privilege of speaking with Bianca, also known as Bibi Cristal. Bibi is an inner development coach, medium and spiritual teacher.  She is a lover of ambition, awareness and alignment. We go deep on the importance of believing in a bigger picture, how we give reasons to all of our experiences, the importance of being self aware and how checking in with our desires will give us a renewed sense of commitment. Bibi is the perfect balance of reality and possibility. Let's get into it!! GUEST Bibi Cristal: https://www.bibicristal.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bibicristal.mtl/?hl=en BOOK THE ROOM YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos  Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

I know we all have been faced with hard times and challenging situations. Has it ever happened to you where days / weeks / years go by and you realize why you were faced with such adversity? Well we have! And we share our stories here :)

In the room today is award-wining director, Sid Zanforlin.  Sid has director numerous TV shows in Canada, and has also written, directed and produced his own award-winning shorts, such as Attack of the Brainsucker and Never Tear Us Apart.  We discuss his career background, his experience as a director and his methods of working with actors. Actors, there are A LOT of good pieces of information in this one...let's get into it! LINKS: Sid Zanforlin IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0952982/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 Website: https://www.sidzanforlin.com/ Judith Westin's : Directing Actors https://a.co/d/8Lj0eav BOOK THE ROOM YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos  Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

This week Suzanna and Jess expand on their upcoming talk with director Sid Zanforlin about being an "actors director". How it is for the actor and the casting director and the skill it takes to know how to direct actors and manage expectations of performances.