The Young Actor's Guide

Hey guys!! In this episode, I go through the importance of INVESTING IN YOURSELF and why it's so important to get coaching and take classes! I also talk about what to look for in an acting coach and class and what to run away from! Interested in following along on Instagram? Find me here: https://www.instagram.com/dana.coaching/

GUYS! I just launched my first Road to Representation to agents and managers and holy moly! It is going so well!!! Listen to this episode to hear all about it and see if it is right for you when I launch in 2020! Also - listener questions and more! Follow me over on IG at https://www.instagram.com/dana.coaching/ 

Have you ever struggled with JUST STARTING THE THING?? Join me and Laney from Life is But a Dish in our honest conversation about the hard parts of taking risks. We cover fear of others judging us, how to get better even when you think you suck, and how to keep going even when you're scared. This is a great valuable conversation for anyone: actors, entrepreneurs, parents, etc. Hope you enjoy getting to know her! Join Dana's Business Coaching Waitlist HERE Follow Dana on IG at https://www.instagram.com/dana.coaching/ Follow Laney on IG at https://www.instagram.com/lifeisbutadish/      

This episode, I'm joined by a room of child actors and their parents at the Brighton Talks: Seminars for Young Performers. I know that social media and talking to other parents in the waiting room can make it seem like everyone else has it all together, but it's not true! Listen to this Q&A, where I explain how to remain positive and realistic about your child's career when they're facing competition and rejection.

I know what it's like being a creative, our minds are 50 different places all at once. Last week's episode was all about how to start, now it's time to talk about how to stay focused. In this episode, I give you my tips on how to keep your head down and get the thing DONE!

The more time you sit on the idea of wanting to start instead of taking action, the harder it gets! Think of this episode as your blueprint for this business. It can get so frustrating scrolling through tons of google articles just looking for some SOLID advice on this industry and how to get started. That's what this podcast is all about; I want you to have somewhere to go and learn from someone you trust who KNOWS this business.  Link to the Brighton Talks event: https://brightontalks.eventcreate.com/ Link for more info on Brighton Hall: http://brightonhallschool.org/

I went straight to the source on this one! I posted in my Facebook group and on Instagram and asked: "if you guys had to come up with some things that you wish someone told you when you started this business for your child what would they be"? And I got SO many amazing responses that I share with you in this episode! 

This interview with talent manager Chelsea Streano is AMAZING! So many golden nuggets for you guys! We talk about who in the youth world would benefit from a manager, when you know it's time to find a manager, parental red flags, and what catches a manager's eye!

I didn't plan on releasing a podcast this week! If you've been following my stories on Instagram, you know that my life has been so overwhelming lately! And with that being said, I'm going to talk about how to know if you should quit. Quitting has this negative connotation, but I talk about how it can actually be POSITIVE for your life and well being! 

This episode is a bit of a rant! It's full of all the things that I wish someone told me at the beginning of my journey. I dig deep into understanding why hearing "no" is a good thing, and how not letting the rejection tear you down is essential to our happiness and success in life.

Reagan Wallace has been an agent at the agency Coast to Coast in Los Angeles for 16 years! She's so passionate about her work and has represented some HUGE actors throughout their careers. She has tons of fantastic tips for you guys, and I know you're going to get a lot of value out of this episode! Connect with me! IG: https://www.instagram.com/danabowlingcoaching/ Website: https://danabowling.com/

Auditions! We all know they can either hit or miss, so today I'm going to share 10 mistakes that you can avoid! Some of the things I mention are: the two things you ALWAYS need to bring with you to your audition, not understanding your material and following the lead when it comes to handshaking! Connect with me! IG: https://www.instagram.com/danabowlingcoaching/ Website: https://danabowling.com/ 

Today I interview one of my best friends, licensed social worker, and therapist, Valerie Sadon. We talk all about parenting child actors, how to help your kids handle rejection, their self-worth, and the ups and downs of becoming an actor. To get a copy of my free guide, ALL ABOUT REPS, click here: https://danabowling.kartra.com/page/allaboutreps Connect with Valerie: Website: http://www.valeriesadon.com Connect with me: IG: instagram.com/danabowlingcoaching

This episode was one of my favorites to record! Jenn Chapman is a dream parent of a child actor! Her child was one of the first that I started working with. We talk about her journey as a mother of a child actor, how she and her husband create a safe and happy home for their kids, what she would suggest in terms of management and agents, and how to not create chaos for the kids OR the managers/agents. You don't want to miss this one! 

In this episode I interview manager Annet McCroskey, she owns the management company Artistic Endeavors. She is a powerhouse who knows exactly what she wants and works hard to get it for her clients! I could've talked to her for hours! This interview was SO good, SO fun and SO vulnerable. We talk about some important things like loyalty, what makes a good client, and how you can keep yourself invested in your manager's eyes!

I'm so excited for this episode! I recently traveled to Louisiana for work, & I'm sharing with you guys all of the amazing things I took away from this trip that I think are super applicable for actors like you! Things like being out of your comfort zone is a GOOD thing, there's no such thing as being TOO prepared, crossing the bridge in fear & how to focus on where you're going, & so much more! You don't want to miss this one! Follow me on Instagram! > https://www.instagram.com/danabowlingcoaching/

This is the interview you've ALL been waiting for! I have talent manager, Nikki Mincks on this episode talking all about her experience, how she became a manager, what she looks for in a client, things she doesn't want to see from a client, what parents should and shouldn't do when working with a manager, her relationship with agencies, and her role in an actors life! This episode is JAM PACKED with amazing information for you guys! Enjoy!

We have a very special episode for you guys in honor of my birthday (June 11th)! My husband, Lance, and I talk off the cuff about all things life, Hollywood, and Dana! I ask him questions like "what's the craziest thing you've ever filmed?" and "what's the weirdest thing about me?" and "where are the cameras during all those crazy, reality tv reactions?". I hope you guys enjoy listening to this episode as much as we did recording it!

Listen, the hard truth is, part of being an actor is being a public figure, and I know it can be tough to stay relevant in this social media driven world that we live in. We can feel like we have to constantly be showing all of our wins and the newest thing we're doing. In this episode, I'm here to help you decide what IS and what is NOT appropriate to share on social media and give you a few tips on the difference between sharing and bragging. 

You asked for it; you got it! This episode has been frequently requested, and I thought it was time to deliver. Being that I was born and raised here in LA, and lived just off Melrose, I knew I had some golden nuggets for you guys! Here's what I covered: questions to ask yourself before planning an extended stay, managing expectations, being aware of your financial situation, cities to stay in, doing research on the part of town you'll be staying in, fun things to do while you're here, and a Q and A from the questions you guys asked in my Facebook Group! This episode is SO much fun! I hope you enjoy it! xo, Dana Here's the link to join my Facebook Group > https://www.facebook.com/groups/1304083986395337/

During my interview with Courtney Kamen, a Second City graduate, improv workshop teacher, and personal friend, we talk all about what improv can do for you and your kids. You may be thinking "I'm not a comedic actor, so I don't need improv," but, improv is something that can be applied to any industry, and any audition. Courtney talks about how improv can set you up for ways to cope with the ups and downs in acting! You don't want to miss this episode; it's SO GOOD! All my love, Dana.

One of the major topics I get asked about as an acting coach is ALL about headshots. And the one thing you NEED to know about headshots is: if you don't have an incredible headshot, you're wasting your time. In this episode, I interview THE top child's headshot photographer in Los Angeles, Tamara Tihanyi! We will cover important topics like: > What makes a good headshot > What you should and shouldn't do before your appointment > What to wear > Certain things to look out for Enjoy!

So looking forward for you all to listen to this double interview episode filled with SUPER IMPORTANT info for actors! My first guest is Jason Shine, the lead teacher for independent study school Brighton Hall, and we discuss the pros and cons for a school that is flexible for young actors and those who want a little bit more freedom in their schooling schedule.Then, I speak with my friend Elizabeth Oakley from Magnolia Speech Therapy all about speech therapy and how important it is for young actors to get trained in proper speech techniques!   As always, follow me on IG HERE Sign up for more info on my website HERE

Questions about Self Tapes? Well, look no further because they are all answered here! Mastering the self tape is essential for every actor now, and there is no better way to learn than hearing from a Self Tape Expert, Mara Klein. Mara is an actress who saw a need for a business idea and created YOUR AUDITION FRIEND, the uber of readers for self tapes! Listen to this episode to hear all about what makes a good self tape, and do's and don'ts! Follow Your Audition Friend on IG! Follow me here!

If you're listening to this, that means you like podcasts, which is why this crossover episode will be great for you. In this episode, I talk to actress, entrepreneur and mom Alyshia Ochse, host of That One Audition podcast. I tell her all about my journey and why I became a coach and consultant after working as a Casting Director and Agent, and we talk about the ups and downs of a creative life! I hope you enjoy!   As always, you can follow me HERE on Instagram! Sign up for my Audition Like a Pro teen class HERE!

I can't wait for you guys to listen to Lee's story. Lee Nessel is a powerhouse mama: an award winning journalist and a momager to 6 year old Ella Grace Helton! Lee will share their journey and show you all how she got from seeing a spark in her little girl onstage at 3 to booking a SERIES REGULAR role on a huge network pilot! As always, join the Young Actor's Guide Group Facebook page! More about me and to book a session on my website! Follow me on Instagram!

We've all been there before: You get really excited about the journey you're on or a potential job and then... nada. You wake up one day and just feel unmotivated, frustrated and... STUCK. In this episode, I talk about 8 ways to get unstuck now, plus I answer some of your questions from the Young Actor's Guide Group Facebook page! More about me and to book a session on my website! Follow me on Instagram!

Another Listener Supported episode! Everyday, I get new questions regarding children and the acting business and have noticed a pattern: a lot of you have the SAME questions! In this episode, I answer the following questions: *Why are you not asked to read all scenes in auditions? *A manager wants to sign my child without meeting them. Should I do it? *Do we bring the sides into the audition? *How do pins and avails work? What does it mean to be put on hold? *Which headshots are right?? To find out more about me, visit me HERE  To book a session with me, you can book it HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching

Some of the most common questions I get as an acting coach and career strategist are social media related. Let's face it, it is a solid and important part of life as an actor and you can't escape it! Luckily, Heidi Dean is here to help us all!  Listen to this episode and learn the tips and tricks to managing your child's or your own social media safely without panic or confusion!  As always, follow me on IG HERE Join The Young Actor's Guide HERE Find me at www.danabowling.com

No matter how established and experienced a person is, they have, at some point, experienced low self confidence. Unfortunately, as an auditioning actor, ain't nobody got time for that! Listen to this episode to get 5 quick and simple tricks to immediately boost your confidence! Make sure to get on my mailing list to be informed of upcoming classes and to book a session with me! http://danabowling.com Follow me on IG at https://www.instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching/ Join my exclusive FB group: The Young Actor's Guide  

Gah!! So excited I was finally able to interview my good friend, actress Marla Sokoloff for the podcast!! You know Marla from Full & Fuller House as Gia, The Practice, The Fosters, Dude, Where's My Car and so much more. I know her as a great actress, mom and friend. I had so many questions for her - from how she started, to making the move out to LA for pilot season, to how she was able to escape the negative path that so many other Hollywood actors couldn't. Listen to this inspiring, informative interview and let me know your thoughts!   Make sure to get on my mailing list to be informed of upcoming classes and to book a session with me! http://danabowling.com Follow me on IG at https://www.instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching/ Join my exclusive FB group: The Young Actor's Guide

I am giddy with excitement over this episode you guys!! Actor JT Neal started just like a lot of you...he was a kid that talked too much in class in a small town in Texas, stumbled upon acting and the rest is history. His story is incredible... he had big dreams, supportive parents and talent, which is how we met back in 2014 when I cast him on Nickelodeon's Haunted Hathaways. Listen to hear the ups and downs of a young actor just starting out, and make sure to watch JT in the upcoming ABC sitcom, Bless This Mess, starring Lake Bell and Dax Shepard!  Make sure to get on my mailing list to be informed of upcoming classes and to book a session with me! http://danabowling.com Follow me on IG at https://www.instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching/ Join my exclusive FB group: The Young Actor's Guide

There is no way around it - being an actor is TOUGH. There are a lot of NO's, a lot of no responses, and a lot of competition. It's so easy to get lost in the negative feelings and sadness that comes with all of the rejection... BUT. It doesn't HAVE to be this way. There are ways to handle and manage the disappointment and highs and lows. Listen to this episode to get inspired.  To find out more about me, visit me HERE  To book a session with me, you can book it HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching Click HERE to join my closed Facebook group, The Young Actor's Guide!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays all! Consider this a Christmas present from me to you because this episode is as valuable as you can get. Do you ever have to do self-tape auditions? If so, this episode with Casting Director Amber Horn will give you incredible insight on what to do to make your tapes POP. Get a piece of paper and pen out for this one, you will DEFINITELY want to take notes! With love, Dana Bowling

Hey guys! A short episode about how important it is to LISTEN to your child and why it's essential to take a step back when things get too negative! Avoid the parent/child fighting and make sure everyone is really in this for the RIGHT reason!  xo Dana

After a whirlwind week here in Los Angeles, I am excited to bring you this episode! Ever wonder what goes through the mind of a children's talent agent? In this episode, I interview Laura Thede, the Director of the Youth Division at DDO Agency! She tells me all about how she started, her background as a dancer and in casting, and how she started and grew the youth theatrical department at her agency! Listen to this one, to get to know an agent's perspective!!    To join the Young Actor's Guide FB Group, go HERE To book a session with me, you can do that HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching

STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING and listen to this episode. Are you an actor with an agent and/or a manager or are you on the hunt for a rep? If so, this episode is for YOU. I reached out to the top youth agents and managers and found out the top ten pet peeves and do's and don'ts from their clients! This is incredible advice, take notes and be aware of your actions! Remember, you work for each other! To find out more about me, visit me HERE  To book a session with me, you can do that HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching

THIS right here may be the most important episode yet. CONFIDENCE is a hugely understated part of the whole acting world. If you don't master it, you WILL struggle in auditions. We all know how hard it is to keep putting yourself out there and hearing the word "no" or not hearing anything at all. With all of that "negative" feedback, how can you remain confident!!?? By using the 4 pillars that I outline here: MINDSET VISUALIZATION PHYSICALITY ACTION Listen to this episode for real, tangible ways to BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE now!  To find out more about me, visit me HERE  To book a session with me, you can do that HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching

This one is listener supported! Everyday, I get new questions regarding children and the acting business and have noticed a pattern: a lot of you have the SAME questions! In this episode, I answer the following questions: *Why isn't my child getting enough auditions? *What happens AFTER we book and is there on set etiquette that we should know about? *What should I do when my child seems disinterested in acting out of nowhere? *Can I ask for feedback? To find out more about me, visit me HERE  To book a session with me, you can book it HERE Follow me on instagram: instagram.com/dbauditioncoaching

In our first of the PARENT/CHILD INTERVIEW SERIES, I get to interview one of my favorite actresses, the stunning and smart Kayla Maisonet! Fans know her most recently as Georgie from the Disney hit show Stuck In the Middle and she has also appeared in various other shows like Dog With a Blog and Haunted Hathaways. I have known Kayla since she was just 12 and new to Los Angeles and have since cast her in three projects so I clearly am a huge fan!  In this interview, I speak to both Kayla and her amazing mom Amanda all about the business and their journey. From moving to LA to follow Kayla's dream when she was just a young girl, to the roads that led to incredible success. Most importantly, we talk about what is necessary to stay grounded and healthy as a child actor, and how important it is to keep your relationships with your family and close ones #1.  You can follow Kayla on Instagram (where she has over 1 MILLION followers!) Also, you can find me HERE on IG where you can get tips, motivation, and be the first to know about upcoming classes and specials - have YOU signed up for my October Emerging Actor's Class yet???  Thanks for following along, and head over to my website to get to know more about me! Dana

So often parents are asking me the same question: "How involved should I be"? I decided to dedicate a whole episode to it because I feel so strongly about this topic! PARENTS, LISTEN UP: YOU (yes, you) can be hurting your child's confidence, career, and chances without even knowing it!! You can also be helping and supporting and pushing them forward... where do YOU fall on the scale? Guys, this one is SO important, every actor parent should listen to this.  As always, reach out to me on INSTAGRAM or Facebook or TWITTER to let me know if I missed anything or if you have any thoughts or questions! As always, happy to help! THAT'S the point! :)  Thanks for listening, Dana danabowling.com  

An often overlooked situation in children and showbiz is the idea of choosing to do something even though your gut is telling you not to. In this episode, I talk about a personal situation I just experienced and how I knew I HAD to listen to my gut to do what felt uncomfortable and hard, but ultimately was the right decision.  To learn more, you can find me at https://www.danabowling.com/

Almost all of my clients seem to want to know what really happens in a Casting office and what the process is. It's such a popular question that I turned it into an episode! In this episode, you'll hear all about my experience behind the scenes when I was casting a typical multi-cam sitcom. What the day to day is like, and how many cooks there are in the kitchen (hint: it's A LOT)! Make sure to listen, review, rate and subscribe - helps more people find me and you'll get a notification every time a new episode is released! Thank you all for your support! Make sure to follow me over on instagram @DBAuditionCoaching!

There are so many ways to feel out of control as an actor, because ultimately you can only do so much.  In this episode, I list different things you CAN control and should constantly be working on so that you don't feel lost or confused on why things aren't happening.  I would love to hear from you guys! Follow me on IG @dbauditioncoaching. DM me there and I will get back to you! Take control of your acting career... xo, Dana

We all feel anxiety at one point or another. In this episode, I get super personal about MY battle with anxiety, how I overcame it and how it is completely NORMAL to feel it. That thing that you are afraid to do? DO THAT.  Actors and really everyone: Listen to this super important episode about tangible ways to deal with audition-related anxiety and how to help get through the hurdle so that you can nail your audition!  Go to www.danabowling.com for more info and to book a 1 on 1 session!

You asked for it - here is a Casting Director's insider info of Audition DO'S and DONT'S - good for both parents AND kids! I discuss everything from when you get the audition, go to the audition, are IN the audition and what to do after the audition!

Parents: Where were you when your child first came to you and said "Mommy (or Daddy), I want to be on TV!" Or a movie, or on broadway etc... In this episode I focus on 10 ways to know that your child is ready to be serious about acting. Then, I spend some time talking to you, the parents, about things YOU need to know if your child wants to act. Dana Bowling 

I am so excited to finally be starting my podcast, which has been in the works for over 6 months - except life kept getting in the way! In this episode, you'll learn more about me and my career journey and why I am so passionate about helping you all! Follow me on IG @dbauditioncoaching, Twitter @danacasting and on Facebook. Ask me any questions you want answered there!  OR to book me for a 1 on 1 consultation or coaching session (in person and online), reach out to me via my website - www.danabowling.com Looking forward to hearing from you!