The Acting Podcast

Sidenotes“Hope = the fire in the rear view is smaller, the further we get”

You've Been Lurking Here“A hazy memory of treasure and ruin in New Mexico”

The Creek“Things left said” 

Incomplete Knowledge“Desire spirals into obsession amidst the labyrinthine canals of Venice.”

Hand Tools“Hand tools and family trees”

Found Words“A trip to Wales to find connection led to more than she could have ever imagined”

Cynthia Continued“A bitter green salad and the awful reality of transactional relationships”

Losing My Religion“It's 1992… painting houses, a break up, a presidential election, and poetry”

Murder at Heaven Avenue“A mountaintop revelation changed everything”

Hunting Season“A story, in three parts, about Catfish Queens, Virgin Marys, and Losing your Damn Mind in the Mississippi Delta”

Muqtada's Room“An invitation to stay in bed gets him out of bed and into the dream”

Saturday Boy“A tale driving you into the heart of car bonnets, old ladies and existential dread”

At our most recent BGB Actors Summit, Risa and Steve gathered with actors from all over the world- from Rio de Janeiro to Mumbai, from Glasgow to San Antonio, from Buffalo to all over Los Angeles. They offered the fundamental and practical steps necessary to nurture and rebuild your career, your collaboration with other creative professionals, and your art. These are essential practices that take you on the journey to success- from care for yourself and who you are as an artist through to expressing that art in and with the support of a strong creative community. And then, with that foundation and support- through training, practice, and a full creative life in conjunction with other artists- you have the tools to build an amazing reel, impactful headshots, scroll-stopping self-tapes,and relationships with representatives and the entire Industry. AND you get to be a full, happy, vibrant actor with whom everyone wants to work!We recorded the Summit so that we could share it with you here on The Acting Podcast, as Audio & Video. We are grateful that we could all come together in the midst of the LA fires that have devastated our Los Angeles communities, while, at the same time, Los Angelenos have come together for each other in the truest spirit of community. Listen in, watch the video, and share with anyone who needs to hear this. We invite you to join our amazing community of artists!More On RisaMore On SteveSubscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Listen to other related The Acting Podcast episodes:Episode 57: Stepping into AbundanceEpisode 54: What Does It Take to Make It Now?Episode 45: The Healing Required to Be an ActorEpisode 41: Fighting Isolation: Why You Need an Artistic CommunityCredits:Producer:BGB STAFFTech + Design:Mitchell Braxton & Aswathi MenonMusic:SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel:@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Coaching Programs!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Sydney in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

It's Horror month. Halloween… and all.

An actor's mindset can make or break a career. Your job is to open your heart, remain sensitive and open. And you're asked to do that job in an Industry that doesn't have the capacity to care for your needs and in which scarcity is the norm. You will lose faith. It's inevitable. But how gracefully you can find it again is the difference between auditioning with the full power of your talent, and allowing fear and self-consciousness to drain you of your power when you're trying to book work. Risa and Steve examine what it takes to create and maintain the kind of abundant mindset that leads to success, even when you're losing faith. Listen in and let us know what resonates with you!“If you hear a voice within you say, 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” – Vincent Van Gogh.More On RisaMore On SteveSubscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Listen to other related episodes: EPISODE 22: The Booking MindsetEPISODE 42: That Next Level ShitEPISODE 43: How To Be A Happy ActorEPISODE 45: The Healing Required to Be an ActorCredits:Producer:BGB STAFFTech + Design: MITCHELL BRAXTONMusic: SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Sydney in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

Risa talked on Zoom with with Anthony Meindl of fellow acting studio, AMAW (which is Anthony Meindl's Acting Workshop) about EVERYTHING… about art, big tech, climate change, self-tapes, casting, how Tik Tok is killing our attention span, and how things are really really hard right now. They talked about both getting started in the NY theatre and the power of community, and, something that resonates for us at BGB a well... being in process always, and being an artist first. It was a great conversation and we want to share it with all of you. So no matter where you are in your journey or how you are feeling about where the Industry is, or isn't, have a listen and see how this affects you, and if it brings up feelings, pay attention to them. Let us know what resonated for you!More On RisaMore On SteveSubscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Check out Anthony's website HERE learn more about his work with actors!‍Listen to other related episodes: EPISODE 55: What Are You Waiting For? You Are The Industry.EPISODE 54: What Does It Take to Make It Now?EPISODE 52: How to Stand Out from Hundreds of Other ActorsEPISODE 42: That Next Level ShitEPISODE 28: The Practice That Leads to SuccessCredits:Producer:BGB STAFFTech + Design:MITCHELL BRAXTON & ASWATHI MENONMusic:SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Sydney in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

Risa sat down with some of our amazing BGB teachers (Cate Cohen, Sydney Walsh, Corey Parker, and David DeSantos) for an inspiring conversation about redefining your relationship with the Industry. About how to successfully step into your power in your work, your art, and your career. What leadership looks like so that you're in the driver's seat, not waiting for the Industry to invite you in. Why we all need a community in which to be creative, to grow, to thrive- we were never meant to do this alone. How to become a creative force and impact your audiences… the Industry. And how the power of an artistic practice will sustain you for a lifelong career.Listen in, or watch these brilliant, generous, kind, talented artists and teachers share their insights and experience. We're inspired!MORE ON RISAMORE ON STEVESubscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:‍Click here to learn more about Sydney Walsh!‍Click here to learn more about Corey Parker!Click here to learn more about Cate Cohen!‍Click here to learn more about David DeSantos!‍Check out the books David mentions in the episode:The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart TolleThe Actor and the Target by Declan DonnellanThe Art Spirit by Robert HenriThe Plays of Anton ChekhovListen to other podcasts with our BGB Master Teachers!Ep. 54: What Does It Take to Make It Now?Ep. 53: Finding Freedom & Power in Script AnalysisEp. 43: How To Be A Happy ActorCredits:PRODUCER: BGB STAFFTECH + DESIGN: MITCHELL BRAXTON & ASWATHI MENONMUSIC: SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Sydney in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

Change is the only constant and the changes have come fast and hard. So what is the Industry now? What does it mean to be an Actor right now? What does it take to make it today?  Risa and Steve discuss the current state of Industry, what actors can expect from the Industry and the essential shifts actors need to make right now to position themselves for success. Listen in and let us know how this resonates with you.MORE ON RISAMORE ON STEVESubscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Listen to other related episodes: EPISODE 52: How to Stand Out from Hundreds of Other ActorsEPISODE 49: How to Redefine Your Career For This MomentEPISODE 42: That Next Level ShitEPISODE 28: The Practice That Leads to SuccessEPISODE 50: The Strike is Over. Here's What to Do NowEPISODE 49: How To Redefine Your Career For This MomentJoin us in class today!‍Credits:PRODUCER:BGB STAFFTECH + DESIGN:ASWATHI MENONMUSIC:SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Steve in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

“Script Analysis” is an often misunderstood term that can result in an actor robbing a scene of its art by reducing it to mathematical calculations. Some actors love the idea of script analysis so they can “solve” the scene and control it. Other actors abandon the idea of script analysis altogether because they are afraid of adding any structure to their art. The truth of Script Analysis is more interesting and dynamic. BGB Master Teachers, Cate Cohen, Sydney Walsh, and Corey Parker, sit down with Risa and Steve to talk about the dance between structure and fluidity in your preparation, and how to use Script Analysis to find freedom and power in your work. Guests & Resources:Learn more about our wonderful teachers: Sydney Walsh - BGB Master Teacher, actor, writer, directorCate Cohen - BGB Master Teacher, actor, writerCorey Parker - BGB Master Teacher, actor, coachListen to other related episodes: Episode 6: The Secret To Successful PreparationEpisode 42: That Next Level ShitGifts & Opt-ins:The Perfect Imperfect Self-Tape21 Ways To Make Casting Directors Happy What Casting WantsBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Steve in our StudioAre You Ready For Class?All BGB Classes

An actor who books work consistently is an actor who has the capacity to remain vulnerable in the face of intense rejection, to stay focused in a world full of distractions, and to stay sharp in one of the most competitive Industries around. The actor who books work consistently has found a way to stand out from hundreds of others. They have expressed themself in a way that makes them a singularity. In a hard industry and a hard world, that kind of singular expression must be supported by a lifestyle that nurtures their art and their career. Listen in as Risa and Steve talk about how to cultivate a lifestyle that offers you all that, and then share your thoughts and questions with us on social @BGBStudio or by emailing us at info@bramongarciabraun.com. We want to hear from you.Subscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Listen to other related episodes: Episode 28: The Practice That Leads To SuccessEpisode 36: The Pursuit Of Happiness - w/ Caroline, Dominic, Ellyn, JohnathanGifts & Opt-ins:The Perfect Imperfect Self-Tape21 Ways To Make Casting Directors Happy What Casting WantsCredits:PRODUCER:BGB STAFFTECH + DESIGN:ASWATHI MENON & MITCHELL BRAXTONMUSIC:SAM DEWEES + ANDY ABELOWBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Steve in our Studio

2023 was a really intense year. Two strikes, wars, a contracting industry, inflation, lingering effects of the pandemic effects, etc. And the intensity revealed some powerful lessons that every actor must hear and understand if they want to be a working actor in 2024.  Risa and Steve reveal the lessons of 2023 that point to the new reality for actors and light the path to success in the new year.Subscribe! And if you're loving the Podcast, leave a review and rating!Your words will help connect us all and bring these valuable conversations to even more actors- and other artists- around the world.‍AND… Screenshot, post + tag us @bgbstudio on IG!‍If you've missed any episodes, catch up now!Guests & Resources:Ep. 50: The Strike is Over. Here's What to Do Now.Ep. 47: A.I. is Coming for your Jobs. Here's What to Do.Ep. 46: What to do when The Industry StopsEp. 45: The Healing Required to Be an ActorEp. 43: How To Be A Happy ActorBack To All EpisodesMeet us on Instagram and other social spaces where we hang out — with tons more great advice, inspiration, and Industry intel.@BGBStudio on IG + Twitter + TikTok + @theBGBStudio on Facebook. ‍‍CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Hybrid Classes!SIGN UP for our BGB Group Career Coaching series!JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A virtual workshop with Risa & SteveThe BGB Sit-Down is back! Meet Risa + Steve in our Studio

Ok, so the Industry is back. But it won't be business as usual. It can't be. Too much has changed. And if you want to book work in this new reality, you're going to have to change too. So listen in and let us know what speaks to you! You can meet this moment, but it won't be easy. Risa and Steve discuss where the Industry is at right now and the important first steps that every actor must take now that the strike is over.

This is a new world for actors. And the Industry that emerges on the other side of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes will be different than anything we've ever seen.The ways in which Actors have thought about their careers for over a century are, in many ways, no longer relevant. So, what's an Actor to do?Risa and Steve shed light on this strange new world, offer insight into what it might look like, and discuss the action that Actors can (and must) take right now if they want to have a career on the other side of all of this.‍Listen to other related episodes: Episode 46: - “What to do when the Industry Stops” with Risa & SteveOpt in:The BGB Actors Summit Video: How To Redefine Your Career For This Moment w/ Risa & Steve

John Frank Levey's IMDb‍Listen to other related episodes:  What Casting Wants:3 Top Casting Directors Tell It Like It Is Episode 12: - Bernie Telsey: The King of Casting Episode 20: - Sarah Finn: Superhero of Casting Episode 23: - Mary Queen of Casting: A Candid Conversation w/ Mary Vernieu Episode 38: - Richard Hicks, CD: We're All In This Together Check out John's book, RIGHT FOR THE ROLE: ‍While there are many books that catalog Hollywood—from the classic to the profane, gritty to salacious—few tell the tale of how entertainment's biggest names became the biggest names.Right for the Role shares the story straight from an insider who's been central to that process for decades. Four-time Emmy-award-winning casting director John Frank Levey hasn't just witnessed some of the world's greatest acting talents make it in Hollywood; in many cases, he's had a major hand in it.As the casting director for numerous iconic TV series, including ER, The West Wing and Shameless, Levey saw firsthand that household names like George Clooney, Anthony Edwards and Allison Janney had “it”—and then watched their “it” propel them into the stratosphere.In Right for the Role, Levey manages to tell a story of life among the glitterati while never losing his exuberance for being a part of the process. Through his colorful tales of meeting incredible talent early in their careers—including Josh Gad, Lucy Liu and a just-out-of-Julliard Jessica Chastain—Levey documents his transformation from a novice casting director to one of the greats in the field.Beyond teaching readers how to spot what it takes to make it in Hollywood, how casting has changed since the 1980s (when telephones had cords!) or how to live in a world of glamor and gusto, Levey's stories also show how to play a central role in a show's success without losing a sense of wonder. 

Generative A.I. is not the future. It is here. Now. And as the technology gets better and better, and audiences become less able to discern whether or not the actor on their favorite TV show or movie is human or A.I., the Industry will choose A.I. generated actors over human actors. A.I. actors are cheaper, less demanding, don't have a union, and don't require inconveniences like air, water, food, physical space, etc. But as Generative A.I. comes for your jobs, it forces all of us to ponder important questions that, left unanswered, could lead to the end of the acting profession altogether. What does it mean to be human?  What is the actual difference between a human actor and an A.I. actor? Risa and Steve explore this new technology and the kind of work human actors will need to do to keep their jobs. Listen in! 

We whole-heartedly support the writers as they fight for what they rightly deserve. And also, a strike means that the industry is slowing/shutting down.  For actors, that can mean fewer auditions and less hope of booking jobs. It can bring up fear and disappointment, especially after three years of pandemic-related uncertainty.   Risa and Steve offer tools to navigate it all, and reveal some of the incredible opportunities that presents themselves when the Industry stops.  

Your nervous system is your tool and your product.  It's also a sacred element of your being, through which you receive and process the world around you.  Your past experiences and dormant emotions can fuel your work, but they can also make you miserable. You need to be sensitive to do great acting work and book acting jobs, but the industry in which you're operating often offers emotional violence, disinterest and the inability to see to any of your needs.  While the industry needs to be kinder and softer (even in the interest of finance).  it won't happen anytime soon.  So, you are going to have to do the labor of looking at your pain and taking steps towards healing.  Risa and Steve explore the way in which actors can heal and offer their own healing journeys. 

Actors can often see CDs as faceless, soulless gate-keepers with the potential to grant wishes or kill dreams. This perception is not only wrong, but it's bad for an actor's business.  Casting directors are human beings who, like you, often struggle to do good work in an emotionally violent industry. In fact, the humanity of casting directors- their ability to be emotionally affected, to be moved- is often the reason an actor gets a callback and gets cast. Actors must believe then and constantly remind themselves that casting directors have the capacity to be emotionally moved by their work.  This discussion with Michelle Allen and the story of how and why she walked away is a great reminder.  Email us at info@bramongarciabraun.com and comment on our IG posts! 

In a business this competitive, navigating the slings and arrows to find happiness is a revolutionary act. Pursuing an acting career is hard. Heck, just being an actor, an artist in a violent world, is hard. You can feel unseen, discouraged and lost. There are challenges at every turn. And yet, amidst all the challenges, there is a way to be an actor, to pursue an acting career, and be a happy, whole human being. It takes focus and discipline but it's possible. Risa and Steve sit down with BGB Master Teachers, Sydney Walsh and Cate Cohen, to discuss the path to happiness as an actor. Listen in and let us know what resonates with you. Email us at info@bramongarciabraun.com and comment on our IG posts! 

Beyond the BS- mastering the latest audition/self-tape “trends,” getting the hottest agent or hiring the best personal trainer- there exist the real, less-talked about elements of success. After many decades in the business and a decade of guiding some of the best and most successful actors on the planet at the BGB Studio, Risa and Steve reveal the bad-ass practices that not everyone has the capacity for, but that are required for success. This is how amateurs become professionals. This is that Next level shit. Listen in. 

An artistic community is an essential part of your success. In order to do amazing audition/self-tape work consistently, you'll have to combat the isolation and inhumanity of the Industry with the collaboration, connection, and care that you only find from community. The right artistic community lifts you up, challenges you to be better, keeps you accountable, reinforces your values, reminds you that you are an actor, and that art matters. On the 10 year anniversary of BGB, Risa and Steve explore the power of this artistic community, and how you can leverage artistic community for your own success.

Risa sat down to talk about the Commercial Casting world with not one- but two incredibly talented commercial casting directors. Danielle Eskinazi (to whom Risa gave her first job decades ago!) and Renita Gale (see bios below) are both long standing CDs who are passionate and talented artists and truly care about actors. We are excited to have you listen as they share how they got into the biz, why they have stayed, how the commercial landscape has changed and lots about the audition process these days. AND why we all must walk through the door when the universe opens it for us. Commercials are a major opportunity for actors to book work- and Danielle and Renita LOVE being dream makers.

Self-tapes are here to stay. But at this point in their evolution, they have the potential to consume you; to pull the entire focus of time and attention as you navigate the technical elements, the lack of collaboration, and the limitations of the process. We see a crisis in our Industry. The proliferation of this process has made actors forget about art. It's time to take stock, to rework what the self-tape is, and stir up a Revolution in the process that places art first. And PS: that's how you book work! 

Richard Hicks is a Casting Director for film, television and theatre (see bio below). He's done it all, he loves it all, and his work is beautiful. We're excited to have you listen to our conversation with Richard, and we hope that it humanizes casting directors even more, which is one of our missions- to remind each other and our community always that we are ALL dancing between art and commerce, and we are doing it together. That the faces of the business are simply human beings, often vulnerable, navigating the Industry while making work the best they know how. And that casting directors love actors and are your champions. Richard has always been and will always be that. 

Jason Clodfelter is hardly whom you might think of when you imagine a big Hollywood Studio TV (Co) President. He's sensitive, caring, personable, charming, thoughtful, and an artist - a fantastic writer, director, actor, and collaborator. Risa got to know Jason in class every week where the work was intimate and intense, and he went all in. And, as he tells us here, his job at Sony TV became an act of artistry, something he needed if he was going to continue to work in what can be considered a soul-sucking job. But he found another way! And listen in to what Jason says about self tapes- what he knows and doesn't know about your experience with self-tapes. But mostly, we want you to listen to Jason's humanity. He's not some faceless power-broker executive. He's a human being.

Nothing makes Risa and Steve happier than creating space and facilitating a path for actors to find their voices as creators: filmmakers, writers, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, etc. When they started BGB, Risa and Steve brought their love of the process of creating from theatre, film, and television into the work that they- and all our teachers- practice in class. And out of that, they have nurtured the fullest expression of each artist's unique voice, along with the practice of artistic leadership. In and out of class, we all make films together and we continue to watch BGB actors take the reins in their work and collaborate together in the world. It's been incredible to witness and to be a part of. Risa sat down with four BGB actors turned writers/producers/directors who have collaborated together in class and have evolved over the past few years as serious creative contenders in our business. Caroline Lindy, Dominic Burgess, Ellyn Jameson, and Johnathan McClain are the real deal. They are working TV professionals and filmmakers. And that's because they have done the work of making work. They've written and directed and produced short films, feature films, and television shows, realizing their voices in ways they never imagined possible. They did it by doing it. They DO it by doing it. They also value collaboration and partnership in this process, because we are mostly not meant to do this alone. Out of those collaborations, more and more work has sprung. And here on The Acting Podcast, they each share how trusting their heart and gut have guided their talent. And the work has flowed from that. This is everything! Listen in to this conversation recorded in person at BGB- which was also a beautiful reunion for Risa and these four filmmakers. We know it'll resonate with you as it did with Risa, and our hope for you is the same as it was and is for these four amazing artists: Do what you love, find more of what you love, realize the potential of your unique creative voice in acting and beyond, and love it all. Oh, and after they finished recording the podcast, Caroline, Dom, Ellyn, and Johnathan each shared some incredible news about the projects that are in the works that they can't fully talk about because the final contracts are signed- but… there is a financed feature film, a deal to write a feature, a directing gig on an upcoming major miniseries, and several more scripts and films in the works. As it should be! 

Every actor will inevitably find themselves in the desert, struggling to make it all work. At many points along the way, you will look at yourself in the mirror and wonder if it's time to step away from your passion, your pursuit. Is it time to give up acting? Risa and Steve discuss this important… and scary question. Listen in- we invite you to ask the question and find some answers in this episode!

Often we think of successful Industry folks as out of reach and fancy and hard to connect with, especially after decades of huge success. And here at BGB and on the Acting Podcast we try to dispel that belief and remind ourselves that we are ALL human in this, we are all challenged, we are all figuring it out. We got to zoom with brilliant casting director, April Webster, this week and talked with her about the work she does, how she approaches self-tapes and zoom auditions, what advice she has for actors, how she approached the iconic franchises of Star Wars and Star Trek, and what means the most to her about the work we do TOGETHER. We love the heart, humanity, deep love of the work, and mind-heart-body-spirit connection that April brings to her casting, and we're thrilled to bring this inspiring conversation to you.

At their best, acting teachers have the ability to create a healthy space in which actors can engage in the consistent practice of their art, deepening their awareness and understanding of themselves and the world. And also, acting teachers have a legacy of falling short. There are amazing teachers doing the hard work of examining ego in the interest of facilitating growth in others. And on the other end of the spectrum there are actual abusive predators who leverage the unearned status and power that is sadly associated with the title "Acting Teacher." And in the middle there are all sorts of biases, ignorance of power structures, and social influences at play (often around gender, race, Queerness, ability), or even just a rigidity about what acting should be.We hear actors' experiences about acting teachers, and there are conversations that need to happen around the dynamics at play.  Every acting teacher, studio, school, or academy must examine their beliefs and practices.  No acting teacher or studio is above this conversation. That includes us. And every actor must be aware of the dynamics involved so they train and grow in a healthy environment.

Risa and Steve sit down in-person with Sam Valentine aka One Broke Actress. Sam is a working actor, a content creator, a coach, a podcaster, an actor's advocate, the poster actor for the side hustle, with a significant social media presence and a foray into youtube, and the creator of One Broke Actress. Together they talk about what BROKE really means and how to embrace it. And they dive into what gets Sam up in the morning, what drives her and fires her up, and what continues to challenge her, even after all this new success. AND how One Broke Actress has changed how she approaches all areas of her career and her creative life, which we're really interested in as it relates to all of you listening.So wherever you're listening, take a page from Sam's playbook and consider what steps you can take- steps that are authentic to you- to turn your talent into work. Sam's journey is inspiring; we want yours to be as well!

In this first episode of Season 3, Risa and Steve talk about how to navigate this new and challenging time in order to find your way in an Industry that's also redefining itself. We've all changed in the past 2 years, and now, Risa and Steve invite you to start with the following: Stop, look inside, create space, and figure out who you are right now so that your acting can be current, an expression of this very moment. From there, you can offer your art with presence, vulnerability, listening, self-awareness, kindness, empathy, human connection, artistic leadership, and generosity. These are values that we practice and celebrate here at BGB, values and practices that will affect your audience on an emotional level and fill a great need in the Industry. Which is now- more than ever- a direct path to success. And yet success isn't measured in jobs booked; it's measured in the ups and downs of a career that happens over decades. So, your health (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual) is essential in order to take care of both you and your community and to become a whole, happy artist, your tank full, offering your voice, your talent, your art! Have a listen! We know this will resonate. Let us know what speaks to you. Email us and find us on social to continue the conversation.

In this conversation about that big topic: Self-Tapes- taking up most of the audition real estate- Risa and Steve offer ways in which you can move past all the (real, tangible) challenges of self-taping, even the trauma around it, and discover the freedom, joy, and deep curiosity you need to get the attention of any Casting Director and book work regularly. Your Self-Tapes don't have to hurt anymore! We're excited to offer ways to shift your mindset, bring all of your talent to bear in your work on-camera- even if you're home alone, turn your Self-Tapes into art, and return to feeling like an actor, always. And when you do that, you're able to show up fully, confidently, and creatively free, again and again, and inevitably success follows. So listen, open your hearts and minds, and see how this discussion helps you re-imagine your Self-Tapes!

BGB Master Teacher Sydney Walsh teaches Risa how she makes steak, shares insight on mushrooms as she cooks them LIVE, and connects it all to your audition + self-tape practice. “You can follow the recipe and still be deeply creative.”Just like cooking… as an actor, you must create space and time to prepare a meal and allow it to simmer and grow into something delicious. This goes for your self-tape or audition as well- being fully present in order to allow your imagination to inform what you create and be in the process of making something new each time. You must allow each “take”- each dish- to unveil itself in the moment, accepting and inviting that it will be different and fresh every time, trusting the process of cooking it, and thus enabling a more profound, pure, and inventive creation.

We're sharing a special conversation Risa + Steve had on a recent IG LIVE that has become a fantastic podcast episode about Practice! Here we go deep into what kind of practice you need to cultivate in order to book jobs, to rekindle the joy your work, and to have the confidence you're looking for to meet this amazing and challenging career path you've chosen for yourself. Listen in and see what aligns with you as well as what mindset shifts you might start to make to solidify a practice for your career, for your art, for your life. 

Risa and Steve sit down with an incredible group of successful multi-hyphenates- Milena Govich, Will McCormack, Grasie Mercedes, and Brea Grant- all of whom started their journeys as actors and have since grown into other roles in the Industry, making names for themselves as writers, directors, producers, and showrunners. Together they discuss their unique paths, and how they've found empowerment and fulfillment by stretching themselves in multiple areas of their careers, acquiring agency to expand their artistic lives in the process.P.S. And it's made them stronger, freer actors.OUR GUESTS:Milena Govich:  IMDb, Instagram, TwitterWill McCormack:  IMDb, InstagramGrasie Mercedes:  IMDb, Instagram, Official SiteBrea Grant:  IMDb, Official Site, InstagramMORE ON RISA        MORE ON STEVEExplore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A FREE virtual workshop with Risa & Steve.Have you heard the previous episodes in Seasons 1 + 2? Make sure to listen NOW!

Risa and Steve sit down with a dynamic group of actor-parents- Heather Brooker, Eddie Cahill, Anna Silk, and Cate Cohen- all with extensive and varied careers – to talk about what it means to be a parent while navigating their artistic careers & the Industry. They discuss their journeys, their challenges, and their joys- and how parenting has not only informed their acting, but acting has made them better parents.Explore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!FREE PDF: 5 Self-Care Practices That Lead to Career SuccessHeather Brooker:  Official Site, Motherhood in Hollywood Podcast,  IMDb, Instagram, TwitterEddie Cahill:  IMDb, Instagram, TwitterAnna Silk:  IMDb, InstagramCate Cohen:  BGB Teacher Page, Official Site, Instagram, Twitter, FacebookMORE ON RISA        MORE ON STEVECHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A FREE virtual workshop with Risa & Steve.Have you heard the previous episodes in Seasons 1 + 2? Make sure to listen NOW!

In the midst of this time of great uncertainty and upheaval for actors across the globe, and as the Industry slowly reopens, it is paramount for actors to be aware of new on-set protocols, how to advocate for yourselves in every area of your work and careers- including having a voice in your union- and how to keep your creative spirit alive. In that pursuit, we are thrilled to offer our conversation with Gabrielle Carteris, president of SAG-AFTRA, and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA's chief operating officer as well as the union's Safety & Reopening Lead, currently working with specialists in the science and medical fields to advocate for a safe reopening for actors and everyone in the Industry.OUR GUESTS:Gabrielle CarterisIG: @gabriellecarterisGabrielle Carteris was re-elected SAG-AFTRA president on August 29, 2019. Carteris became president April 9, 2016, after serving two terms as executive vice president. Carteris became a household name playing Andrea Zuckerman on BEVERLY HILLS, 90210 and recently starred in BH90210, a revival of the iconic show. Her extensive resume includes work in television, film and the stage, with recent credits including a recurring role on Code Black and guest-starring roles on CRIMINAL MINDS, MAKE IT OR BREAK IT, THE EVENT, LONGMIRE and THE MIDDLE. As a producer, Carteris created LIFESTORIES, a series of specials, and GABRIELLE, a talk show that she also hosted. In her role as SAG-AFTRA president, Carteris chairs the National TV/Theatrical Contracts Negotiating Committee and leads the President's Task Force on Education, Outreach and Engagement. Carteris is a vice president of the AFL-CIO and serves on the executive council and represents SAG-AFTRA with the International Federation of Actors (FIA).Duncan Crabtree-IrelandIG: @duncanciDuncan Crabtree-Ireland is chief operating officer and general counsel of SAG-AFTRA. Crabtree-Ireland oversees the legal aspects of collective bargaining and contract enforcement for all SAG-AFTRA collective bargaining agreements, as well as SAG-AFTRA's legal, government affairs, professional representatives, international affairs, governance and diversity operations.He is a co-chair of the board of trustees of the AFM & SAG-AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund, a member of the boards of SoundExchange and the SAG-AFTRA & Industry Sound Recordings Distribution Fund, a delegate to the International Federation of Actors (FIA) and teaches international law as an adjunct professor at the University of Southern California Law School. He is a past treasurer of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, a past Co-President of the LGBT Bar Association of Los Angeles, and serves by appointment as a judge pro tem of the Los Angeles Superior Court.SAG-AFTRA Covid resources: 1-844-SAFERSETwww.sagaftra.org/backtoworkExplore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!CHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A Free virtual session with Risa & Steve.* FIND THIS PODCAST AS A ZOOM VIDEO: RE-OPENING THE INDUSTRY: WE'RE DOING THIS TOGETHERHave you heard the previous episodes in Seasons 1 + 2? Make sure to listen NOW!

In this episode, Risa and Steve talk with Mia Schachter- one of Hollywood's top intimacy coordinators- about their role in the Industry + how actors can advocate for themselves in any situation with regards to intimacy, sex, nudity, and consent of all kinds. Whether choreographing sex scenes, negotiating nudity riders, or simply having the backs of actors on set, Mia discusses what they actually do (and you'll find this as fascinating and necessary as we did), along with their background, the challenges around creating safe sets, what they do to help actors feel safe and empowered, and how they see the future of film and television- and acting- in regards to intimacy, boundaries, and facilitating the kind of freedom necessary for artists to dive into creating their deepest, most vulnerable work. This is a vital conversation for all actors and Industry professionals, and we want to hear from you on what speaks to you from this discussion! Explore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!FREE PDF: 5 Self-Care Practices That Lead to Career SuccessThe Acting Podcast Ep 9: An Actor's Consent: Navigating Vulnerable SpacesCHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A FREE virtual workshop with Risa & Steve.MIA SCHACHTER:Broadway World: Mia Schachter Keeping It Safe at THE WILD PARTYMia: IMDb + IG + WebsiteMia Schachter was born and raised in Los Angeles and returned in 2018 after working in theater in New York City for nearly ten years. Their background in theater, dance, casting, gender studies, and neuroscience informs their work. Their educational background includes a BA in Philosophy from Columbia with an emphasis on ethics and identity. Working for networks like HBO, Netflix, and Freeform, Mia's job is to attune to the needs of actors and directors with scenes that include simulated sex, nudity, and sexual content, in order to make sure that everyone is emotionally and mentally safe on set, while helping showrunners and directors achieve their creative vision. They work with actors, directors, writers, producers, legal teams at studios and networks, costume and make up designers, and production crews, negotiating everything from sex simulation choreography to nudity riders, to providing emotional support to actors in intimate situations. Just like a stunt coordinator, they help make scenes look real and stay safe.

Casting titan Mary Vernieu, whose company Betty Mae Casting is known for working with prestige directors and indie talent alike, joins Risa and Steve in this episode for an in-depth discussion of the casting process, the importance of preparation, championing and nurturing actors and filmmakers, and always approaching the work of acting, auditioning, and casting with creativity, joy, flexibility, and play. Mary's journey has been incredible so far; she's created a meaningful, creative family at Betty Mae, and is deeply grateful for it all. We are thrilled to share this insightful and moving conversation with you.Fun fact: Mary started in Risa's office in 1990 and says she “learned everything she knows from Risa.” She built her casting empire soon thereafter… Betty Mae is now 25 years old!Explore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!FREE PDF: Risa Bramon Garcia's “Never + Always” Practices for the Audition RoomThe Acting Podcast Ep 6: The Secret to Successful PreparationCHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.MORE ON RISA        MORE ON STEVEJOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A FREE virtual workshop with Risa & Steve.MARY VERNIEU:Betty Mae Casting: IG, Facebook + Official siteMary's IMDbMary Vernieu started her casting career working with Risa (a few) decades ago (first on The Doors with Oliver Stone), and since then she's built a casting empire with her company Betty Mae Casting, in which she honors and supports filmmakers, new and established. Mary has cast over 300 features and several TV shows during her career, including recently Dolemite is My Name, Knives Out, I, Tonya, Black Swan, and the HBO series Euphoria. With an eye for talent in both actors and filmmakers, she has developed and enjoys long-standing working relationships with many acclaimed directors such as Darren Aronofsky, David Ayer, David O. Russell, Robert Rodriguez, and Rian Johnson. In 2013, Mary won an Artios Award for the casting of Silver Linings Playbook and was nominated for two more Artios Awards last year for A Star is Born and Deadpool II. In addition to her casting work, Mary has also recently ventured into producing for such films as Trust Me, Come Simi, and Spare Room.Have you heard the previous episodes in Seasons 1 + 2? Make sure to listen NOW!

Booking work starts with a booking mindset. In this episode, Risa and Steve break down the ways in which to shift your approach to booking work and cultivate a consistent practice in order to do amazing work all the time, whether in a high-pressure audition setting, self-tape, on set, in rehearsal, or in your approach to your career. Listen in and learn how to change your norm from nervousness, self-consciousness, even self-defeat, to believing in yourself, being self-aware, proactive, and deeply knowing your power as an actor and your value as an artist. Go ahead and do some journaling on your “why,” on your purpose, when you're done listening. We want to hear from you!MORE ON RISA        MORE ON STEVEExplore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!FREE: The 10-Day Actor's Challenge 3-in-1 Bundle – to get you in the best mindset for your craft, your career, your life!BLOG: How To Be Present in the Casting RoomBLOG: Audition Like You Don't Give A F*ckCHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.JOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A FREE virtual workshop with Risa & Steve.Have you heard the previous episodes in Seasons 1 + 2? Make sure to listen NOW!

Risa and Steve sat down with Audrey Moore, a passionate artist, popular podcast host, and actor's advocate. She has an incredible focus and discipline in how she engages in the business of acting, as well as her craft, and she's here to share her journey. Listen in to this juicy talk about what it means to be a story ninja, how to normalize the audition experience, the importance of developing a consistent and practical practice, and the origin story behind her hugely renowned podcast AUDREY HELPS ACTORS! Our question to you after listening: What is your devoted and passionate practice? Explore these related BGB resources and take your craft and career to the next level!FREE PDF: 5 Self-Care Practices That Lead To Career SuccessCHECK OUT our Audition, Scene-Study, and Creator Classes! Currently on Zoom.MORE ON RISA        MORE ON STEVEJOIN US for The BGB Actors Summit: A Free virtual session with Risa & Steve.AUDREY MOORE:Audrey Helps Actors PodcastIG: @audreyscoresmoore + the @audreyhelpsactorsAudrey Moore is a working actor with credits that include her series regular role in the Netflix show GODLESS as well as many recurring and guest appearances on BETTER CALL SAUL, LUCIFER, THE OA, CASTLE ROCK, and many, many more. Audrey also hosts a hugely popular podcast, AUDREY HELPS ACTORS in which she talks with other working actors and Industry experts about the struggles and opportunities of being a working professional.