Model Behavior with Michael G. Gabel

Michael talks with actor and filmmaker Raleigh Cain about growing up in the Midwest and yet still somehow being drawn to the acting path. They also discuss why, in the rush to pump out content, a lot of projects end up being all polish, no substance. Then Raleigh shares the origins of her pilot 'Story of You,' before giving some sage advice: just go for a walk. @raleigh.cain

Michael talks with model and host Julana about her love of animals, and how the entertainment industry has actually gotten her closer to her dream job than her biology degree. They also discuss expanding her modeling career into hosting, and how the balance of preparation and improv is essential. Then she wants to show you the world on her YouTube series Wild Adventures with Julana! @julana 

Michael talks with OnlyFans model Hank about how YouTube and The Cheetah Girls set her on a path of performative sexualization. They also talk about the hierarchy of sex workers—especially when it comes to stigma and safety—and the importance of establishing boundaries before getting into the industry. Then Hank explains why social media needs to chill and stop shadowbanning her. @sirstinkie

Michael talks with commercial superstar Jacely Fuentes about how a little good fortune and a lot of persistence (not stubbornness) led to a pop in the industry and a career that's only moving forward. They also discuss why she looks at each job as a puzzle to solve and how a shift toward casting might allow her to help others do the same. Then she offers a word of advice: just be you. No, seriously. Because you can't be Jacely. @jacelyfuentes

Michael talks with runway model Bianca Palmerin about what she likes about Miami Swim Week (the rush) and what she doesn't (the diet). They also discuss how she's seen the industry change over a 14 year career, and the new roles she's pushing herself towards. Then Bianca wants you to know that there's always room in your life for some Chunky Hunnies. @biancapalmerin

Michael talks with photographer Niki Cram about why, despite being a painfully shy child, having a camera in her hand gives her ultimate confidence. They also discuss the peaks and valleys of hustling in the self employment world, and the importance of carving out time for self care. Then Niki wants you to know she sweats an insane amount while shooting but she'll be the first to make fun of herself. @nikicram

Michael talks with photographer Argel Rojo about being obsessed with colors as a kid, leading him to a career behind the lens. They also discuss a recent editorial shoot they collaborated on, and how they created a playful space to have fun and be free. Then Argel talks through his process of making selections, editing, and finding the magic in every one of his shoots. @argelrojo

Michael talks with actor and photographer Ming Lo about bailing on corporate life to live a thousand lives on screen. They also discuss why technique and professionalism will get you into that 1% of working actors, not some romantic belief in the myth of the tortured artist. Then Ming wants you to know how staring at strangers in public can help with your craft. @mingtelo

Michael talks with model and yoga teacher Fran Brower about how she gracefully manages her classes, clients and bookings without being a total flake. They also discuss her unique ability to switch from backstage goofball to poised badass when she steps in front of the camera. And then Fran simply wants you to know how beautiful you are! @fit.withfran

Michael talks with new faces model Zak Scherbak about his path from rugged mountain man to LA it boy, and why the two aren't mutually exclusive. They also discuss how he uses an innate sense of balance and contrast to his advantage in the modeling industry. Then Zak gives you some important homework with the book Study of Pose: 1000 Poses by Coca Rocha. @zaksbk

Michael talks with writer Jeff Rowe before he heads to the Oscars this weekend for the movie he co-directed, The Mitchells vs. The Machines on Netflix. They discuss their Roller Coaster Tycoon origin stories and the Panda Express lunches that sent them on their ten-year journeys to today. Jeff also breaks down the beautiful agony of working on such a massive production as an animated feature film, and then teases his new project, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot with Seth Rogen. Cowabunga, dudes! @roweyourboatz

Michael talks with comedian Mike Glazer about the pitfalls of spreading yourself too thin creatively, and why he's craving authenticity more and more these days. Then they discuss his thoughts on comedy as social commentary, what it's like to find magical moments on stage, and how to kill a self-tape audition. Mike also needs you to know the origin story of ranch dressing. @glazerboohoohoo

Michael talks with beauty photographer Zach Sutton about how subtleties and microexpressions can create huge results. They also break down what the 'product' is in campaigns vs. test shoots, and why you should highlight your assets. Then Zach describes how the diversity and inclusivity of the modeling landscape is reflected in the marketplace of makeup brands themselves. But don't forget to produce. @zsuttonphoto

Michael talks with international model Justin Davis about how his seventeen-year career helped him change from an introvert to an extrovert. They also discuss the importance of being able to read people's energy, especially on-set. And Justin describes why his own podcast, Who Can Relate?, fulfills a sense of purpose in his life. @mrjustdavis 

Michael talks with fashion designer Michelle Hébert about the trajectory of her 30-year dream career, and the myth of the overnight success. They also discuss how clothing can be so much more than utility by telling a story or creating a conversation. And, while there's beauty in nature's efficiency, Michelle explains why play is just as important. @michellehebertofficial 

Michael talks with model Laura Quintana about how her lifestyle rebrand went since their last episode, and why they don't really think people should be allowed to 'rebrand'. They also discuss her recent travels, including a ten-day shoot for The North Face on Kauai and a trip to Iceland sponsored by 7-Eleven. @qnami 

Michael talks with photographer David Muller about all things headshots: wardrobe, HMU, backdrops, lighting, even cameras and lenses. They also discuss mastering the art of the 'squinch' and the subtle differences between commercial and theatrical facial expressions. David then suggests why, despite all your preparation, you should stay open to new ideas and those rare happy accidents. @davidmullerphotography

Commercial agent Marta Parrillo returns! She and Michael talk about all the developments in their lives—professional and otherwise—since her last episode, as well as announce the Daniel Hoff Agency's Atlanta division opening next year. They also discuss the virtues of Friends vs. Seinfeld, share some gossipy celeb stories, and check in on Marta's good friend Jennifer. @martaritaville

Michael talks with agent Rick Ferrari of Ferrari Talent about how a very early education at NYC modeling agencies and Studio 54 informed his aesthetic sense, giving him permission to view the industry through a lens of unique beauty. They also discuss his role in creating the 90s heroin chic look, his strategy for building a talent department through convention disruption, and why he hates commercial headshots. @ferraritalentagency

Michael talks with model and actor Angel Lin about her Myers-Briggs Type and how this industry has pushed her to discover many different aspects of her personality. They also discuss finding new challenges, keeping things fresh, and why you can still make an impression even if you tend to be more observant and/or introverted. Then Angel tells the story behind her Squid Game Halloween costume that went viral on TikTok. @angelmydarling

Michael talks with actor and coach Aubrey Duncan about her ontological approach to working with clients and 'the Model' of life coaching. They also discuss the importance of building community, finding your essence, and why manifestation without action won't make your vision board magically come true. @aubreyduncan_

Michael talks with agent and owner of It Model Management Linda Robirds about how she balances being the boss with building a family of talent at her agency. They also discuss why an in-demand look can open the door, but kindness is what gets you through it. Linda also goes into the most common positive and negative feedback she gets from clients, and why every job is important, even the small ones. @itmodelmanagement

Michael talks with model Taylor Craven about bringing your best self to set and building relationships that lead to consistent client bookings. They also discuss what she does to stay in shape without being on a "diet," why she doesn't like being called an "influencer," and how she changes clothes so insanely fast. @taylorannecraven

Michael talks with model and actress Nicole Lemoine about when they got married (in a commercial) and the time they almost got pregnant (in a callback). They also discuss how to build instant chemistry with a partner on set, how to set respectful intimacy boundaries, and why she gave up on her life dream of becoming a plumber. @lovenicolelemoine

Michael talks with model and actress Bianca Stam about how sensitivity can be harnessed and brought to set in a positive way. They also discuss why she's a terrible pickpocket, why acting "natural" takes practice, and how to invest in your career every single day. @biancawstam

Michael talks with writer and yogi Alex Olshonsky about how rebellion can be seen as a spiritual act, and what to do when you end up on a path you don't want to be on. They also discuss the use of ayahuasca in recovery and the journey to self improvement. @oloal

In the first road 'sode, Michael talks with photographer Sam Glinsmann about the adventure they're on, and why happiness isn't a destination but a way to travel. They also discuss finding positivity in the negative spaces, how his photography reinforces his love of nature, and why your vocation doesn't always have to be your occupation. @sglinsmann

Michael talks with actor Hays McEachern about why they hate actors. They also discuss how he keeps his cool during big auditions, the difference between commercial and TV sets, and why you better get on your self-tape game. @haysmceachern

Michael talks with fellow Dartmouth graduate Matthew Oh about what led him from a career in football to modeling and acting. They also discuss how psychology and the balance of practice and play allow you to find flow and react in the moment whether it's at game time or on set. @matthewjamesoh

Michael talks with agent Marta Parrillo about what it's like behind the scenes of the commercial acting world, and the state of the industry during COVID-19. They also discuss how finding an agency is like dating, perfecting the art of the office pop-in, and why it's not her job to get you booked. There's also some serious Nicolas Cage gossip from her own podcast, Gone in NICsty Seconds. @martaritaville

Michael talks with model / actor Nate Holston about why he gave up a promising medical career to give this industry a shot, and why it's important to treat the job and himself like a business, with deliberate practice and professionalism. They also discuss why maintaining a booker's mentality and an attitude of abundance are not mutually exclusive, especially in these lean times. And don't forget to start your day by smiling. @nateholston

Michael talks with actress April Hale about the Petsmart commercial they shot together, and how they made a very unnatural situation look natural. They also discuss why auditioning is an actor's real job, why it takes ten years to become an "overnight success," and why focusing on the positive is the best way to enjoy the hustle and book everything. @iamaprilhale

Michael talks with actor Danny Fehsenfeld about how he took the hard road to becoming the #1 commercial actor in the world with over 240 campaigns under his belt. They also discuss what it was like growing up without a traditional "home," how that led to an anxiety disorder, and why affirmations and self-love helped him find his voice and his truth. 

Michael talks with actor and casting session runner Emily Stern about what goes on behind the scenes of the commercial casting process, what makes a great auditioner, and what drives her nuts in the room. They also discuss how she got from a tiny town in Virginia to LA, became an actor, shaved her head, and started making baking gay again. The Seed&Spark campaign for her short film In-Flight is now live in her instagram bio @whatastern @emilyscookingclub

Michael talks with photographer and actor Emily Sandifer about how she makes a connection when capturing headshots, as well as what a client should bring to a shoot and what they should leave behind. They also discuss escaping LA for the country, "third eying" yourself, Billie Eilish, and figure skating. 

Michael talks with model and actor Kenan Eames about how the arts, athletics, and a house full of women informed his upbringing. They also discuss how his career helped him better understand who he is, reconnect with his father, and become a role model for other kids like him. 

Michael talks with comedian and actress Leah Knauer about the differences between comedy and acting, standups and improvisers, and coincidences and magic. They also discuss how and why she started her podcast Basic Witches, what it means to grin and bear it, and why Michael might be a witch too. 

Michael talks with film composer Julia Newman about the importance of organizing your creativity, breaking down projects into actionable steps, and the sense of purpose found in the collaborative process. They also discuss making the music for Van Life and this podcast!

Michael talks with model Laura Quintana about how dieting can go wrong, why you should focus on how you feel not what you look like, and the importance of comfort food. They also discuss dealing with inconsistencies in scheduling and finances, creating for yourself vs. monetizing your art, battling weed anxiety, and bucket hats. 

Michael talks with actor/model Darrius Marcellin about dreaming of getting from Trinidad and Tobago to Madison Square Garden, and how he achieved it. They also discuss being talented vs. adding value, NYC vs. LA, how to think of yourself as a business, and why you shouldn't need a mirror to know what your face looks like under any emotion. 

Michael talks with comedy director Michael Gabriel about how feeling special can set you up to fail in the entertainment industry, while recognizing your interchangeability and then identifying what you truly care about is the key to personal success. They also discuss loneliness, finding a community, podcasting, mental health, and beer. 

Michael talks with Tara Blanchard about why she sees modeling as performance art, her experiences as a child actor, and how to thrive under pressure on set. They also discuss the importance of rest, treating yourself like a business, the struggle of living in LA, being enough, and acupuncture. 

Michael talks with Chris Reid about how he went from competitive athlete to "jock-ish" theatre major, which led to successful careers in acting, modeling and stunts. They also discuss the appeal of order on set, the importance of maintaining humility, The Secret, and their hair. 

Michael talks about where he's been the last couple weeks, how he's been finding stillness in the chaos, and what's come out of it. He also discusses some truly scary stuff - the prevalence of domestic violence in today's society despite all the incredible resources available, and how simply sharing your story can make a difference. 

Michael talks with commercial agent Michael Huth about how he got his agency start at CAA, and why he left when he fell in love with the outdoors. They also discuss the importance of communication and trust in the talent / agent relationship, breaking through booking plateaus, solving the riddle of overlapping avails, and how he finds stillness while constantly putting out fires. 

Michael talks with eco-conscious model Kelsey Knoche about nailing the modeling stride, controlling your face mid-action, and why it's so important to try less. They also discuss making financially smart career transitions, making jams and jellies, buying fake toe nails, and why no one will ever have better abs than her. 

Michael talks with comedy writer and performer Joe Kardon about the fight against creative resistance as described in Steven Pressfield's book The War of Art. They also discuss studying philosophy and classics, writing vs. performing, spending a month at sea, the urge to disappear, and why Joe is stronger than Michael in the gym. 

Michael talks with rock climber / model Lindsey Tjian about what drew her to climbing, how she uses her photography background to perform better on set, and the advice she'd like to give to beginners. They also discuss living the van life, being a "dirt bag", and how to not give a fuck while figuring out what's next. 

Michael talks with filmmaker Eddie Vigil V about his current film It's What's On The Inside. They also discuss how to make indie productions happen - recruiting crew members, staying focused on the task at hand, putting one foot in front of the other - and why he doesn't want to work in the mines. 

Michael talks with singer C.J. Hammond about staying in physical and mental shape, combining play with discipline, process vs. product, grind vs. hustle, and dealing with anxiety attacks. They also discuss how C.J. took the leap into music. His debut single "Throne" will be released September 6th on all platforms.

Michael talks with photographer Dylan Lujano about his musical theatre background, shooting everything from celebrities to food porn, balancing creative outputs, talent vs. hard work, internships, and meeting Britney Spears.