Camera Ready & Abel

This episode is a rebroadcast of my conversation with Aleasha Bahr on her Sales is Not a Dirty Word podcast about all the many ways to Stand Out in a Saturated World.  It's extremely rare to be first or even early so a saturated marketplace is something we all have to live and work with. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and some days, defeated, but please know, from the core of my being, there is room for you.  Key takeaways Let go of trying to fit into the mainstream. There is no mainstream anymore.  Find your audience (who needs and wants what you do) and adapt your message to them. Focus on the value of what you do and how it makes your audience's life better. Understand what lights you up so you can light up others. Be present and demonstrate you're actively engaged.  Be bold - bold means showing up to be seen. It has nothing to do with loud or outrageous.  Work on your Presence to increase your confidence, connection and charisma (coaching helps) For more Sales is Not A Dirty Word visit https://sndw.aleashabahr.com/ Read The Charisma Myth and download the workbook.

This episode is a rebroadcast of my appearance on Dr. Janet McMordie's Second Act Actors, the podcast for people who have made a major life or career change into acting. I discovered this information is meaningful across many fields and disciplines.   Janet and I discussed: The hows and whys of preparation and practice The importance of giving yourself permission to pursue your dream The myth of natural talent Why everyone needs to nurture and develop their skills The beauty and power of being a Latebloomer Stick to the end because I share a lot of valuable advice and strategies you don't want to miss.   For more Second Act Actors visit:  https://www.youtube.com/@secondactactors

Everyone from Socrates to Euripedes to Virgil Abloh has commanded us to Question Everything. My guest for this episode, television host and professional interviewer Danielle Robay, figured out early on that questions are a superpower - and all of us can develop and tap into it.  At a critical time in Danielle's career, when she was rebounding from the dream job that turned out to be a soul crushing mistake, she turned her superpower inward, asking herself five thoughtful questions per day, and emerged more confident and more clear and committed to her path. Danielle shares... what she learned from her worst interview ever  what she learned from her mentor Larry King how to prepare for an interview how to ask for an interview and her favorite quote from Shirley Chisholm: Service is the rent you pay for a room on this earth. Watch and listen to Danielle's video podcast PRETTYSMART, her love letter to bold, inquisitive women who have something to say. Stay in touch with Danielle on Instagram at @daniellerobay and check out her other offerings: QUESTION EVERYTHING CARD GAME link for purchase: https://prettysmartshop.com/collections/shop/products/question-everything-card-deck-1 PRETTYSMART podcast link: https://pod.link/prettysmart

I am thrilled to be joined by Laura Geller on this episode Camera Ready & Abel discussing the wise words of her father: Nothing Appears As It Seems. Translation: There's always more to the story than meets the eye. Don't compare and despair. Laura is the legendary founder of Laura Geller Beauty. Laura began her career as a makeup artist, often working on TV and with Broadway actors before launching her hugely successful makeup line on QVC in 1997. Key takeaways: Do your homework! Know and observe all your competitors Identify what is different about you AND/OR your product Do a soft launch on social media to gain Proof of Concept Mind your own business: Know and understand the financing backend and frontend  Find a mentor Talk to your audience/customer where they are Innovate, don't imitate Create opportunities by joining professional organizations  Laura is a member of Forbes 50 over 50 and QVC's 50 and Fabulous - a testament to her great success - but as she'll remind you, her success did not come overnight. Laura's resilience and ability to weather the storms along the way have helped give her profound appreciation for her success.  Laura delivers a masterclass in playing the long game, and most importantly, YOUR long game.  Visit www.laurageller.com for more information about Laura's products and follow her on Instagram at @lauragellerbeauty and @aurajgeller. Full disclosure: I wear Laura's products every day

Feeling a little stuck? Need to change your energy? My guest for this episode, actor-writer-sought after public speaker-instagram slayer, Franchesca Ramsey, delivers a Master Class in how to reenergize, refocus, get back in alignment to bring back the joy and make your goals happen.  In short, how to be CEO of your own life. Franchesca is a highly successful creator. But she didn't start there and she generously shares the steps she took to evolve from her career as a graphic designer working for the City of Miami to making YouTube videos to creating and starring in the award-winning MTV series, DeCoded, to being a writer-correspondent for The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore to the triple threat, full-on CEO of her own life she is today.  Key takeaways: Don't wait for permission - take initiative! Be someone people want to work with Be a generous connector Keep a wins jar Focus on goals you can control Enjoy Franchesca on instagram and Visit www.franchesca.net to get more of Franchesca's gems. While you're there check out her NAACP-nominated book, Well That Escalated Quickly, one of Amazon's best books of 2018.  Good news! All of the Camera Ready & Abel episodes + grab-n-go clips of inspiration and actionable insights are now available on YouTube. 

In my years as a casting director and talent development executive, I've observed that the secret to many of the most successful hosts and performers is that they understand how television production works and how their part of the show (or segment) fits into something larger than themselves. I saw this first hand when I booked my guest for this episode, Brian Balthazar, on Page Six TV back in the day, and he was always so great because he knew how to make good TV.  It's a treat to have him discuss and share actionable insights on how to think like a producer because Brian has built an impressive career simultaneously in front and behind the camera as a television host, producer and network executive. Brian is the executive producer and founder of Balthazar Entertainment, specializing in compelling lifestyle programming including Christina on the Coast and Tough Love with Hilary Farr for HGTV and My Dream Kitchen with Carla Hall on Food Network. Brian oversaw the launch of the fourth of Today with Kathie Lee and Hoda where he later became a beloved guest dishing pop culture and trends, was a co-executive producer of The View and was a vice president at Discovery Networks (now Warner Brothers Discovery) where he oversaw mega hits like Flip or Flop and my favorite, Love It or List It.  Key takeaways Production is not personal (even though it often feels that way) Never go to a pitch meeting with only one idea (your idea isn't that unique) If you are pitching yourself as talent, start self-producing examples on social media  There is not one right way to succeed. Find the way that is right for you. Be grateful for the opportunities Follow Brian on Instagram at @brianbalthazar…trust me, he's a fun poster!

It's a truism in coaching that we learn something from everyone we meet. I learned a ton from my conversation with award-winning producer, manager, and Hollywood Navigator, Brian Medavoy and I learn something new every time I listen to this episode: Life is about moments. Because it's the little wins, the moments, that add up to something bigger. There's no Olympics, World Cup, World Series, Super Bowl or Oscars without the moments that add up to get there.  Key Takeaways: Moments gets you out of your head and into the present Moments gets you away from being results-focused Success is measured by what we do for others. The best way to get a person's attention is to help them.  You can learn a lot from an Oscar winning actress or an actor, but you can learn a lot more from what he or she did before they became really successful As a personal manager, Brian Medavoy has had a hand in the careers of Ryan Reynolds, Toby McGuire, Josh Brolin, David Schwimmer, Jason Bateman and Maria Bello, among others + developed and produced TV classics like Dharma and Greg, The Single Guy, and Just Shoot Me. Brian is also the writer of an insightful and generous blog, Welcome to Hollywood. Resources mentioned by Brian in this episode: The Five Minute Journal Building a Second Brain - Tiago Forte Late night legend Dick Cavette interviews jazz legend Oscar Peterson  Brian Medavoy's Business Plan for Actors

This is another one of my "asking for a friend" episodes. I thought you'd be as interested in me in learning how performance golf coach, Eric Cogorno, built a 7-figure business with his popular YouTube channel and online training platform, cogornogolf.com. I got that and so much more: A masterclass in working through fear, setting goals, writing a detailed 10-year plan that includes income projections, the power of meditation and daily visualizations and showing up consistently even when you feel like quitting.  Eric credits having a great creative partner, Mary Lengle, reading Feel the Fear...and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers and following Jim Rohn's Goal Setting Method. The result is deeply inspiring and totally actionable.  Also visit Eric's second channel Lessons I've Learned with Eric Cogorno including this keeper: The Secret to Stopping Fear & Anxiety.

This episode with life, business and career coach, Brian Patacca, has been one of my go-to's ever since he shared this nugget with me: Marketing is going public with your gifts and being seen for your gifts. If you build it and you tell people about it, they will come. Grab your journal. Brian and I begin with marketing and end with dignity and respect.  Along the way, Brian reframes the entire concept of marketing around generosity and purpose: Be determined each day, not to leave your function unfulfilled. Clarity is kindness and kindness is clarity - banish the vague and wishy washy and ASK. Your creativity is your birthright and the world is a better place when you are doing what you are called to do. Effective marketing does 3 things, makes you FEEL something, makes you DO something, makes you NOTICE something. Don't be afraid of the word No. Hearing No frees you to focus your energy on where you'll find your Yes. Brian is a spiritual practitioner who engages creative professionals seeking to ignite their businesses with fierce accountability, marketing innovation and soul satisfying success. He is the founder of a coaching organization and creative community with locations in New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Now based in Los Angeles, Brian coaches nationwide in several web-based group courses including his latest programs, Agent Goals and Actor Operating System.  Get more Brian by tuning into his podcast at www.BrianBreaksCharacter.com and download his free guide to 23 stories of people growing their networks in unusual ways that you can put into practice, at  supersneakyauditons.com.

I used to think sales was a dirty word, especially when it came to selling myself and my services. I know I'm not alone in this, which is why I am excited about this episode with Aleasha Bahr who shares everything you need to know about sales.  We're all in sales - whether you're selling yourself to an employer in an audition or job interview or pitching your idea to a network or for financing or trying to get your boss or team to buy into your idea.  Aleasha is a woman in a male-dominated industry who is calling out the common lies in sales - primarily, that sales is a one-size-fits-all proposition and that you have to do things that feel “weird” or "yucky" and out of alignment to close the deal. Aleasha says embrace the Black Sheep Sales Method instead: Find your tribe and thrive (because if it's a fit, it's a fact) Ask yourself: what are better questions I could be asking? Put yourselves in your customer's shoes (empathy) Focus on what makes your customer's life better/easier Customize your pitch to motivate your customer Prioritize building relationships and you naturally sell yourself Try different approaches to see what works best for you Be mindful of reputation management Try this action step: I am going to innovate my approach to pitching myself by innovating my approach to ______ (fill in the blank). Aleasha explains how around 25 minutes into the episode. Learn How to Sell Like a Natural via Aleasha's Sales is NOT a Dirty Word podcast + so much more on Aleasha's website including how you can work with her. Listen to Aleasha and me discuss How to Stand Out in a Saturated World.

Creativity is the ability to create, produce, or develop original work theories, techniques, thoughts and ways of seeing. You are creative, whether you tap into it or not, and you take your creativity wherever you go, and I think it's often overlooked how valuable creativity is as a transferable skill: the abilities you take from job to job. Here to discuss is BAFTA-nominated television director, Ed Bazalgette, who exemplifies creativity as a transferable skill, having first found success as a musician, then editor, and now director and producer. I first met Ed when he was the lead guitarist for The Vapors, supporting their global hit, Turning Japanese, and I've been a super fan ever since. Please do yourself a favor and check out the power-pop majesty of their full albums, New Clear Days and Magnets. Ed's directing credits include Dr. Who, Poldark, The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die, and The Witcher.  Ed opened my eyes in so many ways: stay humble there's room for more than one person's creativity on a project creating an environment that fosters sharing creative ideas serves the project leadership, communications and soft skills are essential never stop learning and questioning what's in service of the story combine a let's try it! mentality with discipline the ripple effect of creativity as a transferable skill because the more you put out there, the more everybody working with you takes with them to the next thing they do Ed's currently in post-production on Marie Antoinette for PBS. For more on creativity, listen to Maria Brito discuss how Creativity Rules the World. For more on breaking into directing, listen to Mike Simon discuss Directing Talent.

If you want to know how to build a sustainable and successful career, then look no further because this episode of Camera Ready & Abel delivers a masterclass from 2 titans of the unscripted television world, Roni Selig and Marcie Mulé. Roni is a multi-Emmy-winning producer whose credits span from GMA to CNN most recently launched a new digital platform for The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and executive produced The Call to Unite, a 24-hour global livestream event, hosted by Tim Shriver in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.   Marcie is a two-time Emmy-winning producer for the Bravo series Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List and the former co-founder of Picture This Television, a full -service production company that created programming for Bravo, Lifetime, TLC, Food Network, MTV and PBS.   Now Roni and Marcie have joined forces to create RonMar Studios Inc, producing innovative unscripted content from long form documentaries and reality programs to digital fundraisers, live streams including and musical performances. These legends dive into the role their rugged, resourceful, and resilient work ethic played in growing and sustaining a successful career.  Learn more about RonMar Studios Inc. by visiting their website at www.ronmarstudios.com and check out their impressive body of work.

This is one of my favorite evergreen episodes. Chris Witherspoon is an entertainment journalist, producer, entrepreneur and CEO of PopViewers who taught me how his career soared to the next level when he unlearned the importance of seeking approval. Instead of looking outward he focused inward on his approval matrix: Feeling happy, great in his own skin, confident and loving his work. As a recovering people pleaser I know firsthand how much time and energy is wasted seeking approval. Chris has overcome enormous challenges to create his life and career. Therapy, digging dip and doing the hard work helped Chris learn to let go of needing approval. So did listening to the sage advice of two very wise women: Sister Harden (14:17) - one of the church muthas at his congregation growing up in Ohio - told Chris before he left for college, “If you don't see the example, be the example." Oprah has a soft spot for Chris as an interviewer and shared with him how, when the chips are down and you feel you're at rock bottom, go sit under a tree, get settled and at peace with the moment so you can receive the answers you seek (21:13) and how early in her career she  sacrificed her authenticity and integrity in exchange for approval and never made that mistake again (25:54). Bonus tip: Oprah always repeats your name when you interview her. So does Barack Obama.  More key takeaways: Ask what makes you happy? Ask what makes you feel alive? Ask what makes you jump out of bed in the morning? Ask for help - it's an act of bravery. Chris is the founder and CEO of PopViewers, the platform that helps you find what to watch next, invites you to react to the TV and movies you've watched, and encourages you to share the experience with fellow content-lovers. Follow Chris on instagram @witherspoonc and connect on LinkedIn.

My guest for this episode, Shannon O'Dowd, has one of the most unique perspectives of the camera-ready universe of anyone I've ever interviewed because her experience covers every aspect of the industry both in-front of and behind the camera. Shannon is an on-camera host, commercial spokesperson, actor, media trainer, certified life coach, author, CEO of Shannon O'Dowd Presents and agent with Taylor Talent Services. When Shannon says determination is essential for success, she knows what she's talking about. She also revealed: Being a performing and earning a living at it is one of the most challenging things you can do If you wake up in the morning and there is anything else that you wanna do for a living, you should go do that Be coachable and open to feedback - it's as important as your determination Learn to adjust your vision and pivot with purpose (you'll reap the rewards) Ask yourself: Who do I need to know? and Who needs to know me? Follow Shannon on Instagram @theshannonodowd.   Explore Shannon's brand positioning course  Visit Taylor Talent Services  Listen to Shannon's partner, Blair Taylor discuss How To Create Opportunity and Make Money

Seizing opportunity is essential to getting ahead in media and entertainment. It is not a passive, I-think-I'll-wait-until-it-comes-to-me kind of a business. You not only have to seize the day - carpe your diem - you have to do something with the opportunity if you want to move forward in your life and career. My guest for this episode, Hena Doba, generously walks me through how she did just that, going from a local news producer, behind the camera in Watertown, NY, to anchor and contributor on national programs from CBS News (where she became one of the first Pakistani anchors in America) to Cheddar (where we met) to NewsNation where Hena now hosts the weekend edition of Morning in America.  Key takeaways: Be adaptable Take smart risks Listen to feedback Invest in training Learn how to write and tell a story Know how to use video and communicate with your audience through a lens Observe industry standards (as well as the competition) Know the competition Study your weaknesses Work through insecurities Play to your strengths Connect with Hena on Instagram and LinkedIn. If you have a word, phrase, or topic you'd like me to explore on Camera Ready & Abel, please shoot me a note by my website or send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn.

It's one thing to get in the room. It's a whole other strategy to stay there. Here to discuss and go deep is multi-Emmy award winning television host, producer and journalist, Buki Elegbede. Buki shares that when you get in the room it feels good and it's a cause for celebration but it's only base camp. You've still got a whole mountain to climb.  Be prepared to play the long game When the industry shuts down, you don't shut down - you hone your craft and strategize Embrace delayed gratification and know that the rewards will come later Ask yourself: and then what? Stay ready so you never have to get ready Focus on relationships Buki is the creator/host/executive producer of the Emmy award winning Table for All, which takes you into NJ restaurants and home kitchens to try new cuisines, meet the people and hear their fascinating stories behind the recipes, serving up a cinematic docu-series focusing on culture and diversity. Buki has also produced content for ABC, ESPN, Create TV, PBS, Disney and Health Magazine + has produced & hosted docu-series, talk shows, panel shows and LIVE events.  Watch Table for All with Buki Elegbede, check out Work Ethic is a Supower, Buki's previous episode of Camera Ready & Abel and follow Buki on IG @thebukishow.

This episode of Camera, Ready & Abel is brought to you by the phrase, How to Know When You Are Ready for Your Big Break. It's an important question to ponder because, let's face it, the world is full of people you don't remember who flamed out because they weren't ready. And it's very hard to get a second chance, especially in the entertainment arena. But it's not impossible. My guest for this episode is Kamie Crawford - television and podcast host, content creator, genuine influencer, body positivity activist, former Miss Teen USA, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition Rookie of the Year and host of Catfish on MTV - who generously opens up about how unprepared she was the first time we met at an audition for E!.  Kamie was a 19-year old college student who made an enormous impression on me that day. She had that ineffable quality, that IT factor, but she wasn't ready for her TV break yet. Unbeknownst to be, Kamie was a puddle of nerves and tears on her way to my office. With enormous candor and vulnerability, Kamie explains how she struggled to learn how to connect to herself in order to connect to the camera, the content and the audience to build her career.  By the time Kamie auditioned for Catfish on MTV, she blew them away. Her confidence was through the roof and she owned it. There was no one else who could step into that role like she could, and Kamie quickly became a fan favorite.  Key takeaways: It's okay to say I'm not ready  Learn the difference between caution and fear Focus on doing the work of developing your craft - and stick with it Build connections and find people who can help you When you are ready mentally, emotionally and physically the dots will connect and opportunities will come to you Have fun and keep up with Kamie at www.kamiecrawford.com, on Instagram, in Sports Illustrated and her check out her podcast Relationsh*t. If you want to feel confident and prepared for your big break - or your next presentation - I'd love to work with you. Shoot me a note via my website abelintermedia.com. 

This episode of Camera Ready & Abel is brought to you by the phrase Redefining Success, a personal, perennial favorite of mine. The Berkeley Wellbeing Institute defines success as: reaching your goals, learning something new or overcoming fear. If that's what success is, why don't we all feel massively successful? My guest for this episode, Leila Sbitani, is a beloved TV host, media coach and teacher with one of the best workshops in New York City (I highly recommend). Her list of credits is a mile long. Highlights include: Entertainment Tonight, Full Frontal Fashion, FYE for E! and most recently Sit Down With the Stars for Regal Cinemas. Leila says success happened for her when she "had to get rid of that kind of rigid career plan that I had for myself and realize that if I would just let go of that and open myself up to unexpected opportunities, wonderful things can happen.”  She then had to dig deep and redefine success for herself when a cousin, at a family gathering, turned to her and said, "oh, it never really happened for you did it?" Her cousin was equating fame with success, that because Leila wasn't a household name she hadn't "made it." This is a false narrative. Fame does not equal success. Nor do followers and likes.  If you are making a living as a performer - television host, presenter, actor, voice artist etc - you are successful.  Celebrate your wins.  Learn more about Leila and her classes + private coaching (virtual and in person) at https://www.leilasbitani.com/media-training and follow @leilasbitani on all platforms.

I've wanted to explore the word permission ever since Marki Costello asked this most relevant question on her episode of Camera Ready and Abel: Are you prepared to walk in the room and kick ass? Why permission? Because after you explore all the ways to prepare to kick ass like getting your talking points and marketing assets together, plus a cute outfit and flattering makeup, the salient question is: Do you give yourself permission to walk in the room and kick ass? Permission means to grant authorization or to give formal consent and it's key to your preparation. Depending on where and when you grew up, your gender, ethnicity, and lived experience, your gremlin may be popping up to shut you down. No one can give you permission to carpe your diem except you.  Repeat after me: I give myself permission to walk in the room and kick ass! If it helps, remind yourself when you kick ass you're sharing your gifts - and that's helpful. You're providing something valuable that your audience needs. Hold onto that. Figure out the steps you need to take in order to prepare, and then give yourself permission to go after what you want.

This episode is brought to you by the phrase, How to Land Your Dream Job. It's a rebroadcast of my episode with Elizabeth Wagmeister and was originally titled, Resilient, because Elizabeth rightly believes being resilient is a key to success. It's been a joy to know and work with Elizabeth since we met when I was casting Page Six TV and she became one of the hosts. Elizabeth is a consummate professional and genuine pleasure - and makes the work look easy. But as Elizabeth points out, hard-work creates luck. As a little girl, Elizabeth dreamed of being a dancer. She tried out for the dance team but didn't make it. She tried out again - and again and again - until she made the team and went on to become nationally ranked.  As so many of my guests have shared on Camera Ready and Abel: Learn from the disappointment, make adjustments and keep going. When Elizabeth and I originally recorded this episode, she was the senior correspondent at Variety (responsible for numerous covers + breaking the Matt Lauer story with Ramin Setoodeh). Now Elizabeth is CNN's Los Angeles-based entertainment correspondent. No matter what your dream job is, Elizabeth beautifully walks you through the best practices, strategies, and steps to get it, including this gem: No matter what your ambitions are, be good at the job you were hired to do. Always have your boss's back. Follow Elizabeth at @ewagmeister.

Winners don't wing it, they prepare for it! I believe this so much it's tip #12 in my 12 Tips for Success On-Camera (and off) Here to join me for a rollicking conversation about how preparation makes and breaks careers is the legendary talent manager, casting director, media trainer and CEO of Become A Host, the premier TV hosting Academy, Marki Costello. Marki pulls back the curtain on how TV really gets made, what executives are really looking for, how and why one of the secrets to billionaires' success is they prepare (!) and how that mindset is what sets talent with sustainable careers apart from everybody else.  She pulls no punches: Are you prepared to walk in the room and kick ass? Are you prepared for the constant changes in the industry?  Oh, and she's hilarious.  Her 3 Rs: Reveal - Relatable - Ratings are GOLD. Marki is the granddaughter of Hollywood royalty, the great comedic talent, Lou Costello, and got her start in the industry working on Chuck Barris', The Gong Show. She has media trained dozens of a-listers like Kelly Clarkson, Ceelo Green, and Michael Strahan. She is the author of Become a Host: the Insight Secrets used by every successful television host and was the star of her own reality series, the Drama Queen on E! Follow Marki on instagram https://www.instagram.com/markicostello/ and learn about classes and bootcamps at becomeahost.com.

This episode is a rebroadcast of my appearance on Kim Rittberg's The Exit Interview podcast, where we discussed how to craft an amazing speech or presentation. In our conversation I offer practical tips for delivering a powerful and clear message while mining the G.A.P. (Goal Audience Platform), which is a shorthand reminder to adapt your delivery based on the audience and the platform. Kim is a digital marketing strategist, social media and video expert, an on-camera media coach and public speaker with a proven track record and 500 million video views. Kim formerly launched and ran the video unit for US Weekly and is now the Founder & Principal at Henry Street Media which helps companies, individuals and publishers of all sizes expand their brand and maximize revenue through unforgettable content and communications. Learn more about Kim and her services at www.kimrittberg.com and check out her previous appearance on Camera Ready & Abel titled, The Secrets to Creating Social Video that Gets Noticed.

Knowing your worth and believing you are worthy is essential for happiness and wellbeing according to Psychology Today.  When your self-worth depends on external situations it can get unstable, especially in the Camera Ready & Abel space. Knowing your value in the marketplace and having the confidence to ask for what you're worth are also key. Joining me to dive deep and discuss is Health & Wellness Expert and TV/Digital Host, Bianca Jade, who advocates for female empowerment and transformation as the visionary founder and CEO of mizzfit.com. Bianca delivers forecasts and insights on emerging trends within the beauty, health, and fashion domains for various national syndications, local news programs and HSN where she serves as a brand ambassador and guest host and her valuable takeaways are an on-camera career blueprint: Be strategic, be patient and play the long game Seize opportunities Be willing to take lower pay in exchange for gaining experience, developing skills & confidence and building relationships Take inventory of your strengths and be persistent (Bianca auditioned for HSN over 60 times before being hired by a brand) Be discoverable and broadcast your wins Know your brand, know the trends and be able to speak to them Start niche then expand  Provide consistent value to your clients and your audience Bianca consistently produces inspirational and captivating content for her hundreds of thousands of followers (including me) with the aim of boosting confidence, morale, and purpose.  Visit Bianca at mizzfit.com and follow her on instagram.  Learn more tips on How to Get Discovered with Vinnie Potestivo. Submit to be an HSN host here.

This episode is brought to you by the phrase, How to Manage Your Stress and Anxiety- a Camera Ready evergreen topic featuring actionable advice from Podcast guests Marta Ravin, Dr. Heather Hans, and Patricia Stark. The World Health Organization defines stress as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Anxiety is defined by Oxford Languages as a feeling of worry, nervousness or unease typically about an imminent event with an uncertain outcome and can produce physical symptoms like increased heart rate and muscle tension.  Stop and read the room with Marta Ravin. Marta is an Emmy nominated executive producer and showrunner and sought after keynote speaker who started her career in standup comedy. She has been sharing compelling stories, producing iconic content and making people laugh for her entire career. You can learn more at www.martaravinproductions.com and be sure to check out Marta's previous episode on Camera Ready and Abel, How to Read the Room. Switch your thoughts like you switch your tv channels with Dr. Heather Hans. Heather is a licensed clinical social worker & psychotherapist, Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Certified Intuitive Coach & Holistic Healer, and recovering CPA. She empowers individuals and organizations to perform at their highest  potential. Learn more about overcoming anxiety naturally in Heather's online course, Create Profitable Relationships by Mastering Anxiety and other great resources via her website www.heatherhans.com. You can check out Heather's full episode on Camera Ready & Abel titled, Love You Anxiety.  And finally, keep calm and carry on with Patricia Stark and her hot tips on calming product must-haves. Patricia Stark works on both sides of the camera and stage as a Media Trainer, Public Speaking Trainer, Certified Body Language Specialist and Calmfidence® Coach. After helping thousands of students and clients find their own voices and abilities, she made her methods available in CALMFIDENCE: How to Trust Yourself, Tame Your Inner Critic, and Shine in Any Spotlight—a comprehensive guide to improving self-talk and outward communication skills in any social interaction with calm and confidence. For more about Patricia hop on over to PatriciaStark.com and listen to our full conversation in her episode titled, Calmfidence®.

This encore episode of Camera Ready and Abel is brought to you by the phrase It Gets Greater Later, which is the signature mantra of the divine Bevy Smith who first came on the podcast in late 2021.  Quintessential Harlem girl, Gracie Award winner, and life-long New Yorker, Bevy is the host of Sirius XM's “Bevelations” on Radio Andy and the author of “Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie,” where she generously lays out, step-by-step, how she successfully transitioned from a highly lucrative career as a fashion advertising executive to on-camera personality and media mogul, proving you can manifest your most bodacious dreams. Bevy is also a beloved motivational speaker, brand ambassador, businesswoman and generous mentor. Her signature quote, “It gets greater later!”  lives above my desk. Get more Bevy at www.bevysmith.com and check out her impactful talk on the TED mainstage  titled, How To Discover Your Authentic Self At Any Age, at the link below: https://www.ted.com/talks/bevy_smith_how_to_discover_your_authentic_self_at_any_age?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare

This episode is a rebroadcast of my appearance on Life Coach Nicole Baker's Imperfect Success podcast, discussing one of my favorite topics, stop shoulding yourself. We all have an inner critic that likes to should on us. Your shoulds are a list of false rules you tell yourself that feed your narrative but ultimately hold you back, such as, I should be more productive, thinner, disciplined, etc. My shoulds are often a loud discussion inside my head and I've finally learned to turn down the volume. Break free from the trap of unrealistic expectations and learn how to stand out amongst the crowd in this reboardcasted conversation with me and Life Coach Baker. Get more Imperfect Success podcast at www.lifecoachbaker.com/podcast.

This episode is brought to you by the phrase, how to read the room, an essential skill for everyone whether you're giving a presentation or a speech, going to a meeting or job interview or audition, leading your team or asking your boss for a raise... Here to discuss is returning champion Marta Ravin. Marta is an Emmy nominated executive producer and showrunner and sought after keynote speaker who started her career in standup comedy, which is where we first met, and where Marta honed her exceptional skills in how to read the room. The Cambridge Dictionary defines reading the room as to be or become aware of the opinions and attitudes of a group of people that you are talking to. How do you do this? It's a sensory experience, explains Marta, and requires you to be present in the moment and attuned to the energy of the space, taking in information with all 5 senses. 3 key takeaways: You have the power to shift the mood of the room and can pivot at any time by engaging the audience with questions. When possible, study up on who your audience is. Take to social media, review websites, Google them so you are prepared with talking points that they will connect to. Reading the Zoom is harder than reading the room. Put your best foot forward and leave your camera on, let people know you are present and engaged…besides, you are Camera Ready! Marta has been sharing compelling stories, producing iconic content and making people laugh for her entire career. You can learn more at www.martaravinproductions.com and be sure to check out Marta's previous episode on Camera Ready and Abel focused on timing.

The directive to just be yourself can be easier said than done when it comes to lights, camera, actions but in some arena's it's critical to your success and as Brooke and Mary have said in the past, “honesty is the most attractive thing people want to see on camera.” This episode is brought to you by the phrase, Why everyone should take a commercial acting class. Here to discuss are legendary commercial casting directors and teachers, Brooke Thomas and Mary Egan Callahan.   Brooke Thomas and Mary Egan Callahan are veteran commercial casting directors based in New York City who began their careers over 20 years ago at Liz Lewis Casting. Mary is now the co-owner of House Casting NY and after recognizing a need for more personalized casting services Brooke went on to form Brooke Thomas Casting. These power houses come together to teach a word-of-mouth, always-sold-out, award-winning commercial class for aspiring actors, many of whom are top notch-talent on the NYC improv and comedy scene and have gone on to achieve amazing success in television and film. So you are in for an exclusive treat! Key takeaways: It's about being yourself, not a character. Add a little bit of yourself to what the copy editor wrote, have fun with it! Bring to mind who it is that you are talking to and talk to them. Confidence is everything. Confidence is not cocky.  I encourage all of my clients and students to study commercial acting along with comedy improv. Brooke and Mary remind us that commercials offer great work that can be lucrative, respected, and fun. Get more Brooke at brookethomascasting.com and Mary at housecasting.com.

This episode of Camera Ready & Abel is brought to you by the phrase, How to Create Opportunity and Make Money.  My insightful - and delightful - guest is talent agent Blair Taylor, CEO of Taylor Talent Services, who has been innovating and creating opportunities for his clients for over 25 years. Blair has built a successful career by accessing opportunities untapped by traditional agents. He has represented commercial actors and spokespeople for national and international campaigns for some of the world's most recognizable companies, including McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Chevy, Trucks, and Verizon, as well as direct response campaigns and celebrity endorsements for folks like Robert Hajek of Shark Tank and NFL, legend Joe Montana, plus several of the Kardashian Jenner clan, including Kim, Chris, Kylie, and Kendall. Key takeaways: Invest in relationships, they have an invaluable return on investment. Break the rules…gently. Having followers and influence are not one in the same. Gaining followers is a result of the quality of your work and having influence means you have a subject area expertise. The entertainment business is like an iceberg- all the work is underneath the glitz and the glam. Connect with Blair at taylortalentservices.com. Listen to Blair discussing where to find TV Hosting Jobs with Nicole Sellars https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqzO0qYe3hk  Listen to me discussing mastering auditions and million dollar deals on Lights Camera Cash with Nicole Sellars https://camerareadyandabel.podbean.com/e/lights-camera-cash-with-nicole-sellars/

This mini episode is brought to you by the phrase, Measure Your Inchstones, which was a gem that Angela Marie Hutchinson shared with me on her episode of this podcast. We all know about milestones, even if we forget to mark them. A milestone is defined as an action or event marking a significant change or stage in development. Angela opened my eyes to the beauty and power of measuring your inchstones, the small, incremental essential steps you take daily, weekly, monthly, and even yearly that move you forward in a meaningful way toward achieving your goals. Focus on this: Progress is success. I hope you enjoy this reminder as much as I did! Angela Marie Hutchinson is a showrunner, screenwriter, producer, television host, working mom and former talent agent. Want to hear more of her insights?! READ her book, Create Your Yes- http://createyouryes.com/ WATCH her TEDx talk, Create Your Own Yes, When You Keep Hearing No- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8XQ6N94aZc LISTEN to her full Camera Ready & Abel episode- https://camerareadyandabel.podbean.com/e/create-your-yes-with-angela-marie-hutchinson/

This is one of my favorite asking for a friend episodes. When Nicole Baker - host of the Imperfect Success podcast and a coach who helps high achievers ditch perfectionism, cut out hustle culture, and start achieving their goals with fun, fulfillment, and a whole lotta free time - connected with me, I immediately thought, this woman has wisdom I need to hear. So many highlights and takeaways to Unsubscribing from Perfectionism: Perfectionism is often the root cause of procrastination Our success often = our worth = trapped in hustle culture You can't get to 100 without steps 1-99 Learn to take up space and own that space with joy! Your schedule is the secret to getting more done in less time (and the secret to learning to say no) The past does not equal the present unless you live there - change is always possible. Nicole walking through in detail how she identifies and implements her weekly milestone goals in service of her big Everest Goal is a gift at 36 min. Nicole is the CEO of Life Coach Baker and the host of the top 2.5% globally ranked podcast Imperfect Success. Learn more at www.lifecoachbaker.com/

On this episode of Camera Ready & Abel the highly engaging Kim Rittberg teaches how to crack the code of creating social video that gets noticed. Because as Kim says, if you're hiding from the camera, you're hiding from clients. Kim's simple strategy is based on her Four Cs: Confidence Concise Consistency Creativity and she gives a big permission to let go of perfection, focus on value and don't get hung up on all the technology. Keep it simple with a ring light and a microphone and easy, user-friendly apps like CapCut and InShot - or outsource! Kim is a digital marketing strategist, social media and video expert, an on-camera media coach and public speaker with a proven track record and 500 million video views. Kim formerly launched and ran the video unit for US Weekly and is now the Founder & Principal at Henry Street Media which helps companies, individuals and publishers of all sizes expand their brand and maximize revenue through unforgettable content and communications. Learn more about Kim and her services and download her Top Ten Tips to Create Awesome Video at www.kimrittberg.com.

The topic of relationships come up often in my conversations on Camera Ready & Abel. This is no surprise since media and entertainment are relationship-driven industries. People like to work with people they know and trust to to get the work done on time, on budget and well executed. It's also a fact that media and entertainment are referral driven businesses, and people recommend people they know, like, and trust. So I've pulled together a best-of featuring snippets from my conversations with Emily Grace, J.D. Durkin, Buki Elegbede, and Matthew Hoffman who all advanced their careers in MAJOR ways by nurturing relationships that turned into opportunities because of the people who knew them.  Career coach and Sundance award-winning actress, Emily Grace, tells us how she got her break as an actor, in the role that won her the award at Sundance, without an agent! J.D. Durkin, host and reporter at the New York Stock Exchange for the financial news site The Street who previously created the Washington Bureau for Cheddar News when he was their White House correspondent explains how he came to Washington as an outsider with zero contacts and developed key relationships by being patient and doing simple things that no one else seemed to be doing. Television host, producer and journalist, Buki Elegbede, moved from behind the camera to in front when he won PBS' Create Cooking Challenge and it was the relationships that were formed there that helped launch him to the next level and create Table For All with Buki Elegbede which was nominated for multiple Emmy awards this year! TV host, media personality and popular narrator, Matthew Hoffman, got his big break when he was invited to audition to be the official narrator of the US version of the UK TV smash Love Island. Matthew was competing with household name talent and felt there was absolutely no way he was ever going to book the job, but he was so honored to be invited to audition that he decided to go all out for it, not to get hired, but to maintain his relationship with the casting team and production company so that they would call him again for the next opportunity. Matthew's story inspires me every time I listen to it. Matthew, like Buki, knows his being industrious is a superpower. My conversations with Emily, J.D., Buki, and Matthew are bound together by the phrase, Relationships: It's Who Knows You!  If you are looking for help tapping into your super-powers and advancing your career, I am here for you! Please send me a note via my website abelintermedia.com and be sure to download my free ebook, 12 Tips for Success on Camera.

My dear friend, Sean De Simone, is back on the podcast and we are discussing the phrase, Play to Your Strengths. This comes up in all areas of our business from coaching to casting to the courses we teach. My favorite definition of Play to Your Strengths is: Do what you are able to do well, instead of trying to do other things. Sounds simple but so often we waste energy on trying to conform to a narrow ideal - The Shoulds - that we miss the opportunity to highlight our unique value and what makes us stand out. Preparing for this episode I stumbled on playtoyourstrengths.org, a not-for-profit with a mission to help people thrive in life - my kind of people! - and they say understanding your unique strengths empowers you to greater success; working within your strengths produces energy and passion.  If you haven't met Sean, he is a casting director and TV hosting coach who has cast all of the hosts for QVC and HSN for the past 15 years and works with major brands in the beauty, fashion, cook and tech spaces. Key takeaway: Identifying your strengths is not bragging. It's smart, strategic and helpful.

Camera Ready and Confident is a rebroadcast of my guest appearance on Vinnie Potestivo's I Have a Podcast two years ago, shortly after the launch of Camera Ready and Abel. Vinnie is my dear friend, co-conspirator and Emmy Award-winning media advisor who helps people and their business get seen and heard. Vinnie and I met years ago when we were talent executives at MTV Networks.  Listening back to this episode I can hear how far I've come as a podcaster which is reminder that consistent practice pays off. In our conversation we take a trip down memory lane about our years at MTV Networks, and then get down to it with tips and insights on how to be camera ready and confident, including:  breaking through your fears breathing practicing out loud taming your gremlin developing the stamina to be on camera If you're looking for help with how you can be more confident and camera ready, please shoot me a note via my website abelintermedia.com. And be sure to download my free ebook, 12 Tips for Success On-Camera (And Off). Listen to more episodes of I Have A Podcast with Vinnie Potestivo at ihaveapodcast.com.

This episode of Camera Ready & Abel is brought to you by the phrase Daily Disciplines. According to success.com being a high performer is the result of your daily disciplines. Here to discuss is my friend, journalist, J.D. Durkin, who opens up and shares the personal details of how developing his daily disciplines with intention helped him navigate his career, work through challenging times in his life and evolve as a human being. J.D. is a host and reporter at the New York Stock Exchange for the financial news site The Street, the investment app Public, and a regular guest on CBS News. He previously served as the White House and Capitol Hill correspondent for Cheddar, and anchored a nightly national news show after hosting and co-creating the documentary series The Pivot Counties. He is a moderator and host at various fintech and business conferences, including Collision, Politicon, and Web Summit in both Brazil and Portugal. Before his time in Washington, he was Senior Editor for Mediaite.  Key takeaways: Understanding urgency vs importance Having the time vs making the time Loving the climb up the mountain Study those who have gone before you Everyone's trying to figure it out (you're not alone) The will to win is a mindset Every battle's won before it's even begun Get more J.D. at www.instagram.com/jd_durkin + www.linkedin.com/in/j-d-durkin

I get asked all the time by clients and students Am I allowed to say that?? It used to be we were afraid of causing offense or being inappropriate, now add to that the very real fear of being canceled. I'm very happy to have this timely conversation with a bonafide expert on the subject, Karith Foster, who is a diversity engagement specialist and creator of the groundbreaking INVERSITY™ methodology and other signature programs.  Karith is also a humorist, author, television and radio personality, producer and entrepreneur who's been on all sides of this issue and is revolutionizing the way we address issues of diversity and leadership. Key Takeaways: Deepen the impact of DEI by adding Belonging Call someone in versus call someone out Choose: You can be perfect or you can be happy Remember: If you can laugh at it, you can get through it. + C.A.R.E  Conscious Empathy Active Listening Responsible Reactions Environmental Awareness.  Learn more at www.inversitysolutions.com + https://www.instagram.com/karithfoster/

Humans are social creatures and yet it can be mighty hard to talk to people. It's a serious challenge - when you Google, how to talk to anyone, 455 million hits come up. Here to discuss is my dear friend Crystal Jones, who is the associate director of Major Gifts for the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and who talks to people all day, every day for a living and talks them into making serious donations. The alternative title to this episode of Camera Ready & Abel could have been How to talk to anyone...and get them to give you money because what Crystal expertly shares is invaluable advice if you are looking for financing for your project.   You hear a lot of nos on the road to yes. Crystal says the key to talking to anybody and building relationships is shared values, strategy, and integrity. And persistence. Takeaways Good communication begins with active listening  Be curious and create connection Do your research Be ready when someone asks how can I help you? Tune into energy Demonstrate empathy Stay grounded and humble Always say thank you Connect with Crystal on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-k-jones-she-her-a373114/

Everyone from Socrates to Euripedes to Virgil Abloh has commanded us to Question Everything. My guest for this episode, television host and professional interviewer Danielle Robay, figured out early on that questions are a superpower - and all of us can develop and tap into it.  At a critical time in Danielle's career, when she was rebounding from the dream job that turned out to be a soul crushing mistake, she turned her superpower inward, asking herself five thoughtful questions per day, and emerged more confident and more clear and committed to her path. Danielle shares... what she learned from her worst interview ever  what she learned from her mentor Larry King how to prepare for an interview how to ask for an interview and her favorite quote from Shirley Chisholm: Service is the rent you pay for a room on this earth. Watch and listen to Danielle's video podcast PRETTYSMART, her love letter to bold, inquisitive women who have something to say. Stay in touch with Danielle on Instagram at @daniellerobay and check out her other offerings: QUESTION EVERYTHING CARD GAME link for purchase: https://prettysmartshop.com/collections/shop/products/question-everything-card-deck-1 PRETTYSMART podcast link: https://pod.link/prettysmart

Mastery = deep, comprehensive knowledge or skill which is the difference between knowing how to do something and doing that something extremely well. Marketing = the activity or business of promoting and selling products or services. Mindset = the established set of attitudes held by someone Here to discuss the 3 M's is Wendy Alane Wright - acting career coach, Hollywood talent manager and founder of the Hollywood Winners Circle Academy and the Talent Managers for Actors (TMFA) conference. Wendy knows what she's talking about. She coaches tens of thousands of actors around the world through her immensely popular YouTube channel, secrets of a Hollywood Talent Manager, as well as the over 100,000 members in her Facebook group. Wendy is also a writer for Backstage.com and a frequent guest on industry podcasts. In our conversation Wendy shares the importance of training the courage muscle by taking contrary action; doing the opposite of what your fear is telling you to do.  Her message is powerful and her tips are tangible. If you want something you've never had, you need to do something you've never done. Wendy has created a proven strategy for replicating success and has converted hundreds of coaching clients into network series regulars, guest stars, co-stars, supporting and lead actors in feature films. Learn more at hollywoodwinnerscircle.com. Interested in joining the Hollywood Winners Circle Academy? Wendy is offering a 50% off sale right now, so don't miss out! Follow Wendy on Instagram at @Wendyalane1.

Several guests have said this to me: Working harder IS working smarter.  My guest for this episode of Camera Ready & Abel - multi Emmy nominated Television Host, Producer and journalist, Buki Elegbede - says his Work Ethic is his Superpower. Buki believes his work ethic is what has given him a competitive advantage in an industry that is saturated with talent. As he says, quoting Milton Berle, “when opportunity doesn't knock, build your own door.” More takeaways: Work ethic includes working smart and trusting your gut As a producer putting together the right team is everything Learn what everybody does, the value to the team and respect it With the right team in place you can go to the stratosphere Preparation, preparation, preparation Buki also jokes that for Christmas he's going to ask Santa for audacity. Buki is the Creator/Host/Executive Producer of Emmy-nominated Table for All, which takes you into NJ restaurants and home kitchens to try new cuisines, meet the people and hear their fascinating stories behind the recipes, serving up a cinematic docu-series focusing on culture and diversity.  Buki has also produced content for ABC, ESPN, Create TV, PBS, Disney and Health Magazine + has produced & hosted docu-series, talk shows, panel shows and LIVE events.  You can check out Table for All episodes at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiZ284L7DnPGhaAOLNpUmup807brb2iGS Follow Buki on IG @thebukishow

This episode of Camera Ready & Abel is brought to you by the phrase Write Your Dream Role, an action at the heart of creating opportunity. A core principle of being camera ready. My guest for this episode is Emily Grace - a career coach and Sundance award-winning actress - who lives the mantra: Why wait? Don't ask for permission. Go do. Because that's what Emily did. She learned hard lessons as an actor going from making a big splash to fizzle and went on a mission to figure out how the industry actually works, identify what she didn't know and needed to learn and create her own success. 7 Key Takeaways:       The hardest part of getting started is getting started Take the first step – even if it's in the wrong direction because you'll gain clarity and valuable information You can create something out of nothing You really don't know what you don't know so find a coach, take a class, read books, study Get out of The Frustration Loop by asking for help Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Issa Rae are inspiring case studies of people who wrote their dream roles to success An essential part of building relationships is following up + Emily explains how she got her first lead in a film without an agent (25:14) Learn more about Emily's programs Write Your Dream Role https://pickfordwest.lpages.co/write-your-dream-role-free-video/   Short Film Digital Lab https://pickfordwest.lpages.co/short-film-lab-digital/ Reach out and connect with Emily on her Instagram @theonlyemilygrace.

Trends and market changes - like emerging technologies and shifts in consumer behavior impact every industry -  and are hitting entertainment and media particularly hard right now.    Here to discuss both the opportunities and challenges of current industry trends is legendary agent Mark Turner, who currently serves as a Partner and Vice President of programming, digital media licensing, branding and head of unscripted talent at A3 Artists Agency.    Mark started his storied career after graduating from Connecticut College as an assistant to the head of the commercial department at Abrams Artist Agency in New York, and was quickly promoted to agent and started the Host/Broadcast Division. Over the last two decades, that department has morphed into a one-stop shop for all things under the non-fiction umbrella. Mark has represented top on-air host experts, personalities, producers, and digital influencers in all aspects of unscripted TV and digital, and has placed talent literally everywhere. Learn more about Mark https://www.a3artistsagency.com/.

I grew up with an imbalanced idea of what life balance is, thinking all the different parts had to be in equal amounts. What a huge relief and step forward when I met my guest for this episode, Erin Palinski-Wade, who helped me understand balance is about having the correct proportions. Erin is the ultimate multi-hyphenate:  a nationally recognized nutrition, diabetes, and fitness expert, author, TEDx speaker, business owner, frequent television guest, and busy mom of three, who also happens to be a huge content creator sharing real life nutrition advice and recipes on her successful TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram channels.  Key takeaways: figure out how to make it work for you when the opportunity arises preparation through trial and error allows you to say yes to last-minute opportunities Don't be afraid to say NO if you are not well-versed and credible in a topic even if it would be "great exposure" Look at your adaptable skills  As a content creator, prioritize discoverability over likes Keep up with Erin and follow on any of the platforms below: Instagram: http://instagram.com/erinpalinskiwade TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@tiktoknutritionist YouTube: https://youtube.com/healthymomhappyfamily  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthyMomHappierFamily  Learn more about her books by visiting www.erinpalinski.com: "Belly Fat Diet For Dummies," "2 Day Diabetes Diet," "Walking the Weight Off For Dummies"

Being on message means saying things that agree with the official position of a political party, organization, business, or brand…and most importantly, being true to your own message! My guest for this episode, Johanna Maska, is an expert bar none on the how and why of being On Message. Johanna shaped the message and image of Barack Obama, beginning with the Iowa caucuses in 2007, all the way through being White House Director of Press advance until 2015, and recently launched her podcast, Press Advance, which debuted in the top ten and is getting rave reviews from both Democrats and Republicans. Johanna lives the motto of the first Obama campaign: Respect, Empower, Include and says the message of her podcast is listening - listening to really smart people who I disagree with or who I agree with, but it's listening and trying to figure out how in this moment we actually press advance to tackle the big issues that really matter. More takeaways: open your heart and mind to other perspectives and points of view, especially those you disagree with hold space to let others speak for themselves pay attention to the news that actually matters (even if you have to search for it) intention: always try to do better understand the difference between opinions and facts don't be afraid to break some eggs! Johanna is the CEO of Global Situation Room - a highly respected public relations firm - and is a political contributor to NewsNation, appearing frequently on their 5pm (eastern) program, The Hill. Listen to Press Advance Connect with Johanna on LinkedIn Learn more at Global Situation Room and JohannaMaska.com

This feel great episode is brought to you by the word industrious which means diligent and hardworking, and also implies a habitual devotion to the work, which in the Camera, Ready & Abel universe is one of the keys to success. This episode could also have been called Industrious: How to Get the Gig! because my guest, TV host, narrator, and media personality, Matthew Hoffman, generously - and hilariously - walks me step by step through how he landed the gig that propelled him to the next level, narrating and co-writing Love Island USA for CBS and Netflix. Hint: he focused on what he could control and put his energy not into getting the gig, but winning the hearts of the producers, casting directors and network executives (this part of the conversation starts around the 19 minute mark.) Key Takeaways: working hard is working smart learn the power of saying no know your why and who you are doing it for finding joy in giving with no expectation of reward you have to build a life outside of waiting for your big break Matthew's distinctive voice can also be heard as the co-creator, series producer, and host of Previously On...The Official Love Island USA Podcast for ITV America and Peacock, as well as the Co-creator and host of Love Notes, a LIVE weekly radio show for Amazon Amp. His diverse professional portfolio includes serving as a special correspondent for Extra and the host of Sit Down with the Stars for Regal Cinemas, as well as an investor in theatrical productions such as The National Tour of Magic Mike Live and the Broadway Productions of Life of Pi, Merrily We Roll Along in NYC, and Prima Facie…to name a few. Bonus: If you are looking for an uplifting, heart-centered piece of content then be sure to check-out Tuesdays With Matthew, a volunteer program founded by Matthew for Senior Citizens who recreate famous scenes from iconic movies and read this glowing piece in the New York Times. Keep up with Matthew at: IG: @matthewhoffman.tv Website: www.matthewhoffman.tv/ Matthew's Love Island USA greatest hits season 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QJgPjVbE9Y

Life is a series of choices. To choose means to select freely after consideration, to decide upon, to vote (important reminder!), to have a preference. This implies both freedom and responsibility. Joining me to discuss on Camera Ready & Abel to discuss the phrase You Choose! is legendary Talent Executive, Producer and Casting Director, Beth Schiff, who believes in the power of choosing so much she named her business You Choose Creative. Beth has more than twenty years in the entertainment industry, and for over 12 of those years led the casting team on Food Networks' juggernaut, Chopped, developed by our dear podcast friend, Dave Noll, and his partner Cleve Keller, and for the past two years has shaped the talent at Yahoo Creative Studios. Beth reminded me that in any creative endeavor the rule of Fast-Good-Cheap applies. If you want Fast + Good, it won't be cheap. If you want Good + Cheap it won't be fast. If you want Fast + Cheap it most definitely won't be good. You get two out of three. You choose. More key takeaways: Perspectives are always different Everyone can benefit from comedy improv training + media training Practice! Record yourself and do mirror work Be discoverable Be memorable because no means not now and we'll call you again next time Get out of your head by thinking about what makes you smile In addition to uncovering and shaping compelling stories for TV, branded content, podcasts, events, and corporate projects, Beth is producing a documentary about climate change and our food system coming out late 2023. Connect with Beth via Instagram and LinkedIn.

“Alignment is a real place,” shares my guest Tamiko White who joins me on this episode of Camera Ready & Abel to discuss the journey to alignment. Tamiko White is the founder of White Noise Consulting and creator of #NOWTrending, a branding course and community for entrepreneurs. She is a fashion and media entrepreneur, creative brand consultant and writer who has worked with an impressive list of clients over the past 30 years- in front of the camera and behind the seams- to help everyone she works with build an inedible and profitable brand.   Tamiko has built a thriving and impactful business by aligning her values, skills, and interests. Sometimes we are gently veering off the road and have to constantly tweak the wheel to stay on track. Tamiko is here to be your life mechanic and help keep you on the road to alignment one daily habit at a time. Fun fact, Tamiko has been a hand model for 25 years and has played the hands of Viola Davis'!  Learn more about Tamiko and her course #NOWTRENDING: Website: www.tamikowhite.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/tamikowhite/ #NOWTRENDING: https://tamikowhite.kartra.com/page/NOWTrending23