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Questions answered in this episode of Ask Me Anything: What are the tells in a tape or video link that immediately signal real comic maturity to you?When a comedian earns a one-month residency by getting passed, booking an audition, or winning a contest, what does that mean for their career? I'll be doing my first comedy club audition this summer — what key advice do you have? Do you think you need a big ego to survive in the entertainment industry?How do I practice comedy? (I tried saying my jokes into the mirror, but that doesn't give me any insight on what needs to be improved.Who do you think today in the mainstream is pushing boundaries?
Randy OglesbyTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know actor Randy Oglesby. Randy has been an actor on television, film, and stage for more decades than I feel comfortable saying! In this episode, we chat about some of his pre-acting jobs, and why he eventually decided to get into acting. We touch on some of his earlier acting roles and experiences, and even what famous actress was in his high school drama class. We take a little detour as we discuss some of his stage performances and projects in the Los Angeles area. Randy shares his opinions about self-tape auditions versus in the room, which he prefers and the reasons why. Finally, we dive into his roles on THREE current television shows. Randy plays president of The United States Jim Bragg on Apple TV's 'For All Mankind', police chief McNamara on Amazon Prime's 'Marvel's Spider Noir', and Bill Festersen on Peacock's 'The Burbs'. He shares a few stories around the SEVEN roles he has played in the Star Trek universe, before I pepper him with industry and audition questions that we provided by an actress who happens to also be a listener. Make sure you catch Randy on those three shows and keep an eye out for him on some of your favorite films and TV shows from past, present, and future!
Are you struggling to get auditions each week, even though you're training, submitting, and working hard?Many actors think the reason they're not getting called in is because they need more experience or are not good enough.But often, the real issue is that their headshots, reel, and footage are not showing casting directors why they should bring them in.In this episode, you'll learn:Why low audition numbers might reveal a hidden problem that is holding your acting career back.The key reason some newer actors get more chances, even without years of training or experience.How stronger materials can help casting teams see your potential faster and feel more confident about calling you in.Listen now to learn how improving the way you present yourself can help you get seen, get more auditions, and move closer to booking bigger roles.Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: https://www.martinbentsen.comAdditional Resources:Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.comThis show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.
Is it cake or is it Cody and Jay? Jay is back and we recap Auditions 6 from Season 21 of America's Got Talent. Jay gets excited to talk Tapping Dad Syndrome, Cody looks up another restaurant, and we talk about our last Golden Buzzer.YukutaCameron LogsdonCarolina MicViola Panik and Mr. PunchNaimana & DanieleButter and GritVeronika GoroshkovaElsieJoel MLacklan PattersonJesse JoeElektrodadsAshford SandersContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
Tethered is excited to announce open auditions for 12 paid roles in our new narrative-based immersive theatrical production, The Lever. Auditioners must be 18 years of age or older and bring a 1-2 minute contemporary dramatic monologue of their choice to perform. All ethnicities, races, and cultural experiences are encouraged to attend. Due to the nature of the show, which will require performers to be versatile and able to improvise, the format of these auditions will be workshop style. Our creative team will be looking for performers to show they can be generous, collaborative with their peers, and think on their feet. For more information go to http://tetheredimmersive.comPublished on July 16, 2026 | Produced by Lyons Den Productions and Cinemactivist LLC | Hosted by John C. Lyons | Music by Tony Grey | Recorded and Edited with RiversideSupport us by becoming a patron at Patreon
America's Got Talent (AGT)'s twenty-first season is nearing the homestretch of Judges' Auditions. The show's on-air team – host Terry Crews, judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and series creator Simon Cowell – has not only been searching for the next $1M winner but also getting competitive in selecting Golden Buzzer acts. Terry, Simon, Mel B, and Howie have already completed their search for Golden Buzzer acts, securing TWO acts each.However, Sofia is the last member of the show's on-air talent team to have an empty Golden Buzzer spot. Did the actress press it tonight? Which acts received a buzzer? Listen on to find out!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
Everything is coming up glitter as Minnesota Ryan makes his season 21 debut and recaps Auditions 5 from Season 21 of America's Got Talent. Ryan does the listeners a favor and does the recaps, we get some mini RyAnalytics, and we answer listener mail.Barrio Dance FactoryVahtangKameron MarshallDarrell MotenNene RoyalRoyal LasersThe Jesse White Tumbling TeamTravis GarlandAbresh EthioDaniel AlvarezGodfrey DanielsIsrael IsaacJack & HaleyNeil & BryanNathan Noah TsujuContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
America's Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 Judges' Auditions returned after its Fourth of July celebration!Since the Judges' Auditions began, the entire on-air team (Host Terry Crews, Judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara & show creator Simon Cowell) has raced each other to award acts the Golden Buzzer, which entitled the recipients a spot in the Season 21 Live Shows. Before the episode aired, Simon, Howie, and Mel B pressed both of their Golden Buzzers, leaving only Terry and Sofia with one, respectively. Did Terry or Sofia use their Golden Buzzer tonight? If yes, who was the lucky recipient? Did any act receive any Xs? Listen on to find out!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
Does America have what it takes to be on a podcast??? America's Got Talent invited us to set up in front of an auditions taping to chat with contestants and fans alike. The fantastic Bridger Winegar guest cohosted the whole episode, and even Howie Mandel and Terry Crews hung out with us for a bit. Guests include a nerdy rapping dad hoping to make it big on AGT, a teen with expertly trained adorable dogs, and a PBO fan with truly the best Obama impression we've ever heard. Recorded on 3/21/26 in front of the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California.Go to https://Quince.com/podoutside for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns!Sign up for a $1 per month trial period at https://shopify.com/outside !Visit Betterhelp.com/outside today to get 10% off your first month!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
From child auditions on the West End to starring in not just one huge movie, ‘My Fault: London' but now its follow up ‘Your Fault: London' Asha Banks has been working since she was seven years old! And at 22, she is only just getting started. In this chat with Josh, Asha reveals the brutal reality of child auditions and how rejection at a young age built the resilience she relies on today. She looks back on her meteoric rise over the last 18 months, going from playing a show for 40 people to 65,000 people in Hyde Park, and tells Josh who keeps her grounded through all of it. Asha gets into why intimacy coordinators create freedom rather than limit it, and lets Josh in on the great chat that kick-started her friendship with co-star Matthew Broome on a five hour flight to Tenerife. Plus she joins the group chat to answer your questions. Alright then, fancy a chat? Watch ‘Your Fault: London' on Prime Video and stream Asha's new song ‘Come Down' now.
Cody and Jay are here to recap Auditions 4 from Season 21 of America's Got Talent. We review a local family restaurant. We talk Guiness world records, and we talk about acts that we have talked about before. Go give it a listen.Olivia BefusJames & MarinaBrook LynnHerwan LegaillardMadelyn Tallent & Malachi MartinRubén Roldán BustosBird and ByronMr. HammerhandMackenzie SolPatroxKyle JohnsonGrant ParsonsMicah BeanThe Hissy KitsHagino LizardmanContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
It's the last round to impress Origin selectors before game 3. Does Tom Trbojevic slot straight into the centres providing he gets through unscathed? Josh Morris joins Adam Hawse to go through potential Blues changes. Also, as June 30 approaches, could we see the likes of Bronson Xerri and Spencer Leniu on the move? Asu Kepaoa get six weeks for a homophobic slur, and Joey Walsh's re-signing with Manly is vote of confidence in Kieran Foran. For all your NRL news, follow the Continuous Call Team wherever you get your podcasts. It’s your one stop shop for the latest in rugby league. You can find us on YouTube and on Instagram - just search ‘Continuous Call Team’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I want to reframe something for you. Because if auditioning feels heavy, like a test, like a judgment, like a moment that could determine your entire future, I get it. I have been there. I remember walking into audition rooms feeling like I was literally going to my death, like I should smoke a cigarette first. That is how loaded it felt. But here is the thing. That is not actually how the industry works. Auditions Are an Interview Process The job is being hired to work on the set, the stage, or in the studio. Auditions are how you get there. They are an interview process, not a verdict. And so many things that determine whether you book are completely outside your control. Chemistry with other actors. Network preferences. An age range that shifted overnight without anyone updating the breakdown. I once had a scene with Warren Beatty in a major feature film and the night before I was supposed to shoot, they rewrote me out of the script entirely. That scene was just gone. And that had nothing to do with my audition. Sometimes you give a fantastic audition and you are still not the right piece of the puzzle. That is just the reality of this business. What Working Actors Think Differently Actors who book consistently walk into auditions with a completely different mindset. Instead of pick me, it is more like let me see if we are a match. Let's see if this works. That one little shift removes the desperation. It creates collaboration. Bryan Cranston talks about this so beautifully in his autobiography A Life in Parts, which I will link in the show notes because you have to read it. He talks about dropping off the gift of his talent. Just dropping it off. No attachment to the outcome. One of the most effective tools I have ever used in auditioning is asking myself how can I serve this project? Forget whether I get it or not. How can I serve it in this moment? What ideas can I give them? When you stop seeing auditions as judgment you can relax, and relaxed actors give better performances. Lee Strasberg talked about this all the time. The Real Purpose of an Audition Casting directors are not looking for perfection. We are trying to answer one question. Is this the right person for the role? Or are they in the ballpark? But auditions also serve another purpose. They introduce you to casting directors. They reinforce relationships you already have. The audition is not just about this job. It is about building something longer term. Casting directors bring actors back again and again once they trust their work. Because if you give great auditions, you make us look good to our clients. Energy Matters More Than You Think Humans feel energy immediately. I think casting directors feel it even faster. If you are tense and fearful it comes off like you are just trying to survive the audition, not enjoy it. Actors who come in grounded and curious look like collaborators. Because that is what they are doing. They are coming into the room to collaborate. And that energy, it matters more than most actors realize. The Bottom Line Auditions are not the job. They are opportunities to show your work and build relationships. Treat them like a creative collaboration instead of a life or death moment. When you start doing that something shifts. You start enjoying the process. And when we are in a state of joy, people want to work with us. Joy is a high vibration. It is contagious. The goal is not to book the job. The goal is to become someone that casting wants to bring back over and over again. And also to have fun doing it. It is going to be okay. It really is. Want to Keep the Conversation Going? I have a free acting business audit for you. It is a questionnaire you answer on your own to see where you are at with the business side of your acting career. And as I always say, stay safe and treat yourself real well.
A newsletter and the Deadline website say 007 actor auditions will gear up in August for the first Bond movie under Amazon creative control.
Actors live and work in an environment that asks a lot of them. Auditions, rejections, financial uncertainty, intense rehearsal periods, performance anxiety, public scrutiny, relationship dynamics, creative vulnerability, and the challenge of sustaining a career in a highly competitive industry all place unique demands on actors. As a psychologist who works with artists and performers, I've often noticed that the framework we hold for performers has a specific difference. When people outside the performing arts experience stress, they're often encouraged to step back, do less, or find fulfilment elsewhere. But performers rarely want to care less about their craft. They want to keep creating, keep striving, and keep showing up for the work they love. The question becomes: how do we develop the skills to manage high levels of stress sustainably? In this conversation, we'll explore the psychological realities of life as an actor. We'll discuss the thoughts that can undermine confidence, the emotions that come with putting yourself on the line creatively, the physical demands of rehearsal and performance, and the challenge of balancing the pressures of work with the realities of everyday life. Most importantly, we'll look at practical ways to build psychological flexibility and resilience so that stress doesn't consume the energy you need for what matters most: telling stories, connecting with audiences, and bringing your creative work to life. Whether you're navigating the stress of auditions, managing performance nerves, recovering from setbacks, or simply trying to sustain a long and meaningful career in the arts, this session will offer practical insights and plenty of opportunity for discussion. Bring your questions. The world of performance is demanding, but there are many skills we can learn that help us meet those demands while continuing to grow as artists and as people. Dr Shona Erskine is a registered psychologist in private practice with 30 years' experience working in the arts sector. After graduating the Victorian College of the Arts (Dance, 1994), she spent decades working as a dancer while qualifying as a psychologist. She has an expertise in psychology for performing and visual artists and work through professional companies, universities, and in private practice. The focus of her psychology work includes performance and creativity as well as communication and complex systems. She has a keen interest in best practice models for artists that attend to the whole person with compassion and curiosity.
Come here! Cody and Jay are here to recap America's Got Talent season 21 Auditions 3. This is the episode Jay has been waiting for. We get Rube Goldberg machines, a one man bander, and spoken word. Check it out!Sprice MachinesCome HereYoung & StrangeIsaac AtkinsCris SosaBety DumitruLaRussellGuy Keton JonesAkiraRyan InzeroInfinite SpinLygia WayEric HainesContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
E & T are back with another Patreon Preview talking about Erica's JFL Audition.A free Patreon Preview from the "JFL Audition" Patreon episode #229. To hear the full episode, Join the Patreon: patreon.com/twostandupgalsYou can also join on Apple Podcasts and Spotify right from your phone.Submit your questions for the podcast here: twostandupgals@gmail.comWatch episodes on our YouTube Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoStandUpGalsPodcastTRIP LOADING...BANFF Canada! Fill out this form if you're interested in a long weekend trip to Banff: https://forms.gle/hzVvk8jn33wwYqiS8 Not interested in these? Take our Travel Survey here to help us decide out next destination: https://forms.gle/mYY5Ss7szCowAj2u8
Caleb Quillen returns to the podcast to talk about the path that took him from growing up in Sugar Land, Texas, to principal bass of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Along the way, he reflects on formative teachers, including Dennis Whittaker and Paul Ellison, the influence of the Boston bass tradition, and much more. Check out our text/media version of this conversation and our interview with Caleb from 2016 here, and learn more about Caleb on his Boston Symphony and New England Conservatory pages. Thank you to our sponsor! Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio – CMU is dedicated to helping each student achieve their goals as a musician. Every week each student receives private lessons and participates in a solo class with Micah Howard. Peter Guild, another member of the PSO, teaches Orchestral Literature and Repertoire weekly. They encourage students to reach out to the great bassists in their area for lessons and direction. Many of the bassists from all of the city's ensembles are more than willing to lend a hand. Every year members of the Symphony, the Opera and the Ballet give classes and offer our students individual attention. Click here to visit Micah's website and to sign up for a free online trial lesson. Connect with DBHQ Join Our Newsletter Double Bass Resources Double Bass Sheet Music Double Bass Merch Gear used to record this podcast Zoom H6 studio 8-Track 32-Bit Float Handy Recorder Rode Podmic Sony Alpha 7 IV Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM Lens When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Theme music by Eric Hochberg
The Bock Brothers, Jay and Scott, make their annual appearance together to recap Auditions 2 from Season 21 of America's Got Talent. We get impressions, we find out which brother gets in the most trouble, and there is mention of the Iowa State Fair. So sit back, and listen to the best pod we've ever done.Nyjah Music & Zyan RhythmAbiud SandoRynia KandoLara DabbaghBrad and TracyHundred FingersHolland and SiennaGeno PloegerCesar DiasKevin QuantumFrankie LapennaJulia and CharlieKevin QuantumContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
Pippa Hudson speaks to Collet Dawson, South African Project Manager for Hong Kong Disneyland about the search for local vocalists for its Festival of the Lion King production. Lunch with Pippa Hudson is CapeTalk’s mid-afternoon show. This 2-hour respite from hard news encourages the audience to take the time to explore, taste, read and reflect. The show - presented by former journalist, baker and water sports enthusiast Pippa Hudson - is unashamedly lifestyle driven. Popular features include a daily profile interview #OnTheCouch at 1:10pm. Consumer issues are in the spotlight every Wednesday while the team also unpacks all things related to health, wealth & the environment. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Lunch with Pippa Hudson Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 13:00 and 15:00 (SA Time) to Lunch with Pippa Hudson broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/MdSlWEs or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/fDJWe69 Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
America's Got Talent (AGT) is back with its twenty-first search for talent! Last week, host Terry Crews and judges Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B held court at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium for the first set of Judges' Auditions. For the first time ever, 3 GOLDEN BUZZERS were handed out on the Season Premiere! Tonight, another group of hopefuls auditioned for the chance to join the ACRO Canine Crew, Lai Noelle, and Luke Taleno in the Season 21 Live Shows. Which act received a Golden Buzzer? Was buzzed out of the competition? Who pressed the Golden Buzzer tonight? Listen to find out! Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Judges Auditions Continue! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
Send us Fan MailRHOA-K. Michelle Walks Out, Drew Gets Called Out & Shamea Auditions
What happens when a lifelong actor ends up behind a bar — and realizes the two aren't all that different? That's the story of Matthew "Matty" Rangel, a born-and-raised Wisconsin bartender who stumbled into social media content creation at 5:00 AM in a pub basement, and now has nearly half a million followers across platforms. In this episode, we sit down with Matty for a candid conversation about his dual life as a bartender and actor, the raw and real content that built his audience, and why talking about mental health in the hospitality industry isn't optional — it's essential. What We Cover From the stage to the bar — and back again Matty's love of acting started at age seven, watching his dad perform. When the pandemic killed a signed contract to join a New York theater company, bartending kept the bills paid. Then some drunk friends in a bar basement told him to just start making videos — and everything changed. Nearly half a million followers, no flair required Matty's content is unapologetically dive bar. No bottle flipping, no craft cocktail tutorials — just the real, raw day-to-day life of a neighborhood bartender. His 70-page notes document of stories and observations has become the foundation of a highly relatable and growing following. Bartending as performance Matty draws direct parallels between acting and working behind the bar — putting on a face when your grandparents are in the hospital, talking a stranger through the death of their son, then driving home and sitting in your driveway in silence for 20 minutes. It's a performance job, but the emotional weight is very real. Mental Health Mondays Matty runs a recurring content series dedicated to mental health in the industry. He talks about why bartenders need to let it out — and why the emotional labor of the job deserves to be taken seriously, regardless of how it compares to other professions. Auditions, COVID, and the silver lining Pre-pandemic, pursuing acting from Wisconsin meant moving to Chicago or New York. Now, virtual auditions mean Matty can stay rooted in Racine while still working with his Chicago-based agent. An unexpected upside of a difficult era. Just start Whether it's content creation or anything else — Matty's biggest piece of advice is to stop waiting for perfect and just go. He stumbled and bumbled his way to half a million followers. The only way to learn is to do. Connect with Matty Rangel LinkTree - Matty Rangel Instagram / TikTok / Facebook / YouTube: @TheRealMattyRangel A big thank you to Jean-Marc Dykes of Imbiblia. Imbiblia is a cocktail app for bartenders, restaurants and cocktail lovers alike and built by a bartender with more than a decade of experience behind the bar. Several of the features includes the ability to create your own Imbiblia Recipe Cards with the Imbiblia Cocktail Builder, rapidly select ingredients, garnishes, methods and workshop recipes with a unique visual format, search by taste, using flavour profiles unique to Imbiblia, share recipes publicly plus many more......Imbiblia - check it out! Contact the host Kypp Saunders by email at kyppsaunders@gmail.com for products from Elora Distilling and Malivoire Winery. Links kyppsaunders@gmail.com @sugarrunbar @the_industry_podcast email us: info@theindustrypodcast.club
We're back, and it's time for season 21 of America's Got Talent. Cody and Jay give their recap on auditions 1. Everyone gets handed a Golden Buzzer, a comedian wants to hang out, a dancer gets multiple attempts.AggyLai NoelleTyrone & MargoNolan Ross PalmerJosh ShermanAcro CrewKev AdamsKOSE 8ROCKSUnitree RoboticsCommunity ATL ChoirChapters00:00 Season 21 Premiere and Golden Buzzers09:58 Recap of First Episode and Golden Buzzer Moments20:03 Discussion on Online Spoilers and Act Variety31:52 Duo Tyrone and Margot's Danger Act37:42 Variety of Acts on AGT47:20 Acro Crew's Performance and Discussion54:42 Kev Adams' Stand-Up Comedy Performance and Discussion01:02:17 Judge's Callbacks Round on AGT01:08:28 Rap Performance Evaluation01:27:06 Golden Buzzer Ranking01:33:35 Feng Bao from China01:43:20 Community ATL Choir01:55:31 Favorite Acts and ClosingContact InformationFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | EmailAbout AGT Time PodcastAGT Time Podcast is a weekly podcast covering the hit NBC talent competition America's Got Talent. The hosts, Cody Patterson & Jay Bock, recap each episode during the regular season every summer. During the offseason, AGT Commenter hosts our Rewatchable series as well as full series rewatches.
Most professionals are terrible at talking about themselves. Not because they lack substance, but because no one ever taught them that being interesting is a skill, and that skill can be learned. Maz Farrelly has spent decades on the other side of that problem. As the executive producer behind Big Brother, The X Factor, and Celebrity Apprentice, she has auditioned over 20,000 people, had her content watched more than eight billion times, and once broke Twitter deliberately. In this episode, I sit down with Maz to unpack what the TV industry understands about attention that most professionals never learn, and how to bring that same thinking into the way you pitch yourself and show up in any room. Maz and I discuss: Why you have about 10 seconds to earn someone's attention, and what TV producers do with that window that most professionals don't The one word missing from almost every professional pitch ("so that") Why adapting your introduction for every room you walk into isn't being fake — it's understanding your audience How to share your credentials and achievements without sounding like you're bragging The case Maz makes against performed humility on LinkedIn, and better alternatives that actually build trust Why Maz banned email entirely on Dancing with the Stars UK, replaced it with two 10-minute standing meetings a day, and had only four phone calls across 100 shows What Gogglebox taught Maz about the power of doing the exact opposite of what everyone else in your industry is doing Key quotes "If you can help people, you need to show off. Because I need to be able to buy you, and I can't buy you if I don't know you exist." "The first line's job is to make me read the second. It's so obvious, and hardly anyone does it." Connect with Maz Farrelly on Instagram, LinkedIn, and her website. My latest book The Energy Game is out on July 7, 2026. You can order a copy here: https://amzn.to/48ID29M Connect with me on the socials: Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanthaimber) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amanthai) If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work and live, I write a weekly newsletter where I share practical and simple to apply tips to improve your life. You can sign up for that at https://amantha.substack.com/ Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at amantha@inventium.com.au Credits: Host: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: The Podcast Butler See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I want to tell you about a little experiment I ran. I was helping a director find and cast actors for some ADR for a film. I reached out to my network and posted in a very popular voiceover group. It was not a complicated audition. Narration piece, sides were provided, instructions were very clear. Basic. I got 208 submissions. And when I sat down to go through them, I am not exaggerating, over half had at least one avoidable error. Not the wrong voice for the role. Not didn't nail the read. Errors that had nothing to do with talent. Errors that happened before the person even opened their mouth. Today I'm going to tell you exactly what those errors were, why they matter more than you think, and what you can do right now to make sure you're not in the half that gets filtered out before anyone hits play. The Breakdown I actually tracked this because data, to me, is everything. 25% of submissions didn't follow directions. Mislabeled files, wrong file formats, ignored tone and approach guidance. Just wrong. 16% asked for information that was already in the email. I sent detailed sides, character notes, tech specs, and one in six people replied to ask me things that were answered in the first two paragraphs of the casting notice. 6% didn't read the provided script. I sent the sides and these people recorded something entirely different. Their own interpretation of what the spot might be, or a section of audio that felt close enough. Not what I asked for. 3% sent demos instead of the requested lines. I said please record these specific lines and they sent me a 90-second reel of things I didn't ask for. Add all of that up and you get 50%. Half of submissions had at least one error that was completely preventable. Why This Matters More Than Talent Here's what I want you to understand about sitting on the other side of that inbox. Most casting directors get hundreds if not thousands of submissions. And when you're casting you're not primarily in the business of finding talent. You're in the business of finding someone you can work with. Talent is table stakes. If you're in the pool you can probably do the job. What differentiates people at that stage is reliability and trustworthiness. Can this person follow instructions? Are they going to make this job harder or easier? Are they going to be a professional when we get into session? A mislabeled file tells me this person doesn't sweat the details. Asking a question that's answered in the brief tells me this person didn't read carefully or doesn't think my time is worth protecting. Sending a demo when I asked for specific lines tells me this person thinks their preferences override mine. And on a session, that is a problem. None of this is about the quality of your voice. It's about the signal you're sending before anyone hears you. Casting directors are reading those signals because it's the fastest way to narrow a pool of 200 down to 20. Fix One: Read the Brief Like It's a Script This is so simple but it requires a genuine habit shift. When you get a script you don't skim it. You read every word. You notice the tone marks, the character notes, the tech specs. You treat it like it matters because it does. The brief is telling you exactly what the casting director needs, in what format, by when. Your job is to do exactly that. Not approximately that. Not mostly that. Exactly that. Read the brief once for the big picture. Read it again before you record. Pay attention to any tone or character direction they've given. Then before you submit read it one more time and compare it to what you're about to send. That's maybe 35 extra seconds. And that's the difference between being in the top half and being in the bottom half of any audition pool. Fix Two: Never Ask a Question That's in the Brief If the answer is in the brief, do not ask the question. I know sometimes it feels safer to double-check, to make sure you're on the right track. But here's what happens in a casting director's inbox when they get a reply to the audition email with a question that was answered in paragraph three. They sigh, they answer it, and they note that you didn't read carefully. If something genuinely isn't clear after two full reads, then ask. Ask a specific, concise question and lead with I want to make sure I have this right, and reference where in the brief the ambiguity is. That shows you read it and found a real gap, not that you skipped it. Fix Three: Do What You're Asked This is the one that requires the most ego management. When they ask for specific lines, record the specific lines. I understand the instinct to send your full demo. Your demo is great. Your demo represents your best work and is designed to show range. But they didn't ask for your demo. They asked for something specific. And the moment you substitute your judgment for theirs you have told them something about how you collaborate. Save the range showcase for when they ask for it. Do the thing they asked you to do, do it well, and let that be your audition. Want to add a small note at the end of the submission? Great. Something like happy to send a demo if useful. That's one sentence. It respects their time and keeps the door open without overriding their instructions. The Bottom Line The voice actors who book consistently, not occasionally but consistently, are not necessarily the most talented people in every room. They're the most professional people in every room. They read the brief, they show up on time, they do what's asked, and they make the casting director's job easy. Talent is abundant. Professionalism is not. In a pool of 200, the person who follows every instruction perfectly has already separated themselves from half the competition before a single note of audio has been heard. You worked so hard to build your voice. You invested in a studio, paid for coaching and demos and all of it. Don't let a mislabeled file be the reason someone never found out how good you are. The brief is the first audition. Pass it. Want to Keep the Conversation Going? Let me know if this resonated. Let me know if you have questions. I would love to chat about your process. Keep me posted on how I can help at mandy@actingbusinessbootcamp.com.
NEW MERCH AVAILABLE NOW ROT: We're off to Europe, and the silly travel shirts are on the way. Sketch Tank: Listener Dan's hilarious auditions to be in the Jacob Elordi Sketch. Shannon Noll sung on a plane - Harry is NOT happy with the safety breaches. Yappers: The most inappropriate fire instagram edit in history + 6-7 is well and truly alive. Schemes: Free Bunnings plants, free Beers with a burger, and unlimited money at the pokies HACK. Listener submitted KIF soundboard HERE JOIN OUR PATREON FOR HEAPS OF BONUS STUFF Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to The Blathering LIVE on The Napzok Network. Part ramble, part rant, part joy, part anger -- but all done in the fashion of an old school radio show with segments and live listener calls. The on-air sign goes on, and the show goes from there. The live episodes are recorded on Ken's YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook channels.Get Ken's Comedy Album IN MY DAYPurchase Ken's book Why We Love Stars: The Great Moments That Built A Galaxy Far, Far Away.Enjoy The Moonagerskennapzok.com
Episode Chapter Summaries Chapter 1: The Rochester Connection & The Johnny Fever Dream (00:00 – 03:51) Anne introduces her longtime friend Tim Powers. They bond over their shared Rochester, NY, background, noting that growing up there fosters a natural sense of grit, humor, and raw honesty. Tim shares his origin story, starting as a kid with a voice that dropped way too early in 1978. Growing up in a massive, hilarious family where you had to be funny just to get noticed, Tim fell in love with radio icons and comedy legends, dreaming of becoming the next Johnny Fever. Chapter 2: The "Clark Kent" Years & Transition to the Improv Stage (03:52 – 08:34) Tim discusses his early years in radio, cueing up vinyl records, learning to think on his feet, and mastering spontaneous communication. However, minimum-wage radio couldn't pay the bills, leading to decades of "Clark Kent" day jobs. In his 30s, a friend dragged him to an improv theater tryout. Despite not being a traditional theater kid, Tim discovered that the improv stage was exactly where he learned structural acting, performance pacing, and the ultimate art of letting go. Chapter 3: The Philosophy of "Yes, And" in Voiceover (08:35 – 12:40) Tim shares his journey moving from his hometown to Los Angeles, training with iconic schools like The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade, and eventually transitioning back behind the microphone under the mentorship of the late Lori Tritel and animation legend Michael Bell. Anne and Tim unpack the zen philosophy of "Yes, And." They discuss how voice actors spin too many mental plates trying to be perfect, when their only job is to accept the information given to them by the copy and boldly add their own life experiences to it. Chapter 4: Making Bold Choices vs. The Robotic Read (12:41 – 19:28) Anne and Tim challenge the idea of trying to read the casting director's mind. Tim points out that in an industry overflowing with talented talent, the only thing that separates you from a room full of people matching your exact technical specifications is your unique life experience. They look at how improv empowers talent to trust their gut and make fast, definitive character choices rather than hunting for a safe, sterile melody. Chapter 5: The "Dude" Knowledge & Grounding Corporate Narration (19:29 – 23:48) The conversation gets tactical as Anne and Tim explain the power of improvising your lead-ins. Tim demonstrates how a simple lead-in word like "dude" acts as the tip of a massive, subtextual iceberg. They argue that this work isn't just for wacky characters or high-energy commercials; it is also mandatory for all genres, including corporate narration and e-learning. To compete with cheap, perfect AI bots, human actors must bring a developed backstory, a natural breathing arc, and authentic physical transitions to the text. Chapter 6: The Truth About Demo Production & Acting Accountability (23:49 – 33:32) Anne and Tim have a candid, hard conversation about the current state of industry coaching. They address the hard truth that voiceover is a professional acting discipline that cannot be mastered in four to eight short weeks. They discuss their shared responsibility as demo producers, explaining why they refuse to cash a student's check for a demo if that student isn't consistently audition-ready. Tim shares a classic Hollywood story about the legendary "$500 demo trucks" parked outside major studios and warns why decision-makers spot those corner-cutting shortcuts instantly. Chapter 7: Garbage Plates, White Hots, and the Drop-In (33:33 – End) Tim details how talent can train with him via his zero-barrier-to-entry weekly drop-in Zoom workshop, Timprov, and his regular coaching site. The episode wraps up with a hilarious trip down memory lane as Anne and Tim talk classic Rochester culinary staples—including the legendary "garbage plate" hangover cure, Wegmans grocery stores, and Zweigel's white hots—before locking in plans for a future collaborative live-streaming workshop episode. Top 10 Boss Takeaways Acting is reacting: Real conversations are never premeditated. Every single script you read requires you to look at the words as an immediate response to an event that just happened. Embrace the "Yes, And" mindset: Stop fighting the copy or over-analyzing the client's intent. Accept the scenario given to you by the writer, agree with it wholeheartedly, and add your specific central nervous system to it. Natural beats perfect: If voiceover were solely about flawless technical precision, one person would hold all the work. Auditions book because of raw human imperfection and compelling storytelling. Instinct over mechanics: If you are listening to the sound of your own voice or focusing on your vocal melody while recording, you are completely out of the scene. Ditch the "Voiceover Artist" label: Tim reminds us that artists make sandwiches at Subway. You are an actor who uses your voice. Own that title, and do the internal script analysis required of real actors. Master the customized lead-in: Never launch directly into the first line of text dry. Build a fully formed, improvised phrase right before the first word to establish a genuine emotional point of view. Develop the "Dude Knowledge": A single lead-in word can serve as shorthand for a massive, unwritten backstory. Is your subtext "Dude, you're about to get fired" or "Dude, I've got the coolest secret to tell you"? Know the difference before you pull context into the microphone. AI can read—humans must connect: Perfect, pretty, and cheap reads can be generated by algorithms all day long. The only defense against automation is your messy, un-replicable life experience. Demos are a reflection of audition readiness: A professional demo is designed to show a casting director what you can deliver on the fly. If you aren't ready to book an elite audition on your own, you are not ready to cut a demo. Find coaches who hold you accountable: Avoid any production factories that promise stardom in record time. Work with industry thought leaders who aren't afraid to give you the hard, necessary truths about your current performance level.
Dan, Manny, & Billy welcome Actor, Producer, and Musician Alisa Reyes to discuss how she went from being on Nickelodeon's All That, to evolving into a high-powered multi-hyphenate talent, and being the voice of LaCienega Boulevardez on the award-winning show The Proud Family. “It is all about uplifting humanity during Mother Earth's ascension right now, and we just gotta ride this wave gracefully, and we all gotta just stay connected and keep uplifting the vibration of humanity [...] that's why we all do what we do.” -Alisa Reyes This is a special episode of Nostalgia 101, because Alisa Reyes has been part of so many of the pop-culture moments in all our lives, so it was an honor to have her on the podcast to talk about her time on All That, Teen NBC's One World, what it's like to keep evolving and transitioning so successfully in such an ever-changing industry, and her recent time on the award-winning show The Proud Family. We also got to hear about some of the fun things she's been able to do, like being on Celebrity Family Feud with Soleil Moon Frye, Keke Palmer, Paula Jai Parker, and Kyla Pratt, to face Salt-N-Pepa and Kid 'n Play, producing documentaries like The Orange Years and Butterfly in the Sky, being on Reading Rainbow, and what it was like to be on one of the most unhinged soap operas ever, Passions. The guys also got to ask some fun Nostalgia Test Podcast pop-culture questions, and Alisa reveals that she watched a very random sitcom that floored Dan because he's never heard anyone, ANYONE, say they watched this show. Email us (thenostalgiatest@gmail.com) your thoughts, opinions, and topics for our next Nostalgia Test! Suggest A Test & Be Our Guest! We're always looking for a fun new topic for The Nostalgia Test. Hit the link above, tell us what you'd like to see tested, and be our guest for that episode! Alisa Reyes is a born and raised New Yorker who is Irish, Italian and Dominican and now resides in California. She is known for her role on Nickelodeon's "All That" as a series regular season (1-3) & season 11 where she played herself and multiple roles. Alisa is also a series regular on the Emmy & NAACP Award Winning Disney Plus cartoon "The Proud Family: Louder & Prouder" with new episodes airing now. Alisa plays the bossy, but oh so lovable "La Cienega Boulevardez". You can also check out Alisa as "Lacienega" on Disney's "Broken Karaoke" & "Theme Song Take Over". She has also starred in NBC's "One World" as the Cuban-born entrepreneur of the group. Peter Engel created the TNBC show. Alisa received the coveted Hollywood Young Star Award for her role of Marci Blake in "One World". Thinking you may recognize her from some other show? Well check out her credits on "Without A Trace" (CBS), "Strong Medicine" (LIFETIME), "NYPD Blue" (ABC), "ER" (NBC), as well as the controversial Trina on "Boston Public" (FOX) and "Six Feet Under" (HBO) and on the Emmy nominated PBS series "The American Family", portraying the younger Vangie. The list is endless, with lots more to come. Alisa was also on NBCs "Passions", where she joined the cast as the beautiful and exotic singer Sydney Valentine causing nothing but heartache for the lovelorn super couple Chad and Whitney, but also making her mark as a strong recording artist. She also was a recurring on CBS's "The Bold & the Beautiful" as the sassy Ginger. Check out Alisa's latest film "Sisters" written and directed by Jahmar Hill. She plays the role of Elise in this crime/thriller airing currently on BET and BET Plus. You can also see Alisa star in "Break Even" which is out now. The film is written by CJ Walley and directed by Shane Stanley. This will be Alisa's 4th project with Shane Stanley. Alisa plays Rosie in the film. "Break Even" is an action, adventure, love story you will not want to miss. Alisa also starred in films such as "Daze", "The Biz" and "FreezerBurn"to name a few. Along with other films such as "A Trip to the Dark Side" and "My Trip Back to the Dark Side" directed by Shane Stanely. Alisa is also in a film called "Heavenly Deposit" which is supported by The Dove Foundation as the role of Jenny. You can also make it a movie night and watch her movie "Players" she stars in with Freddie Rodriguez. Along with her latest documentary that she is producing alongside Scott Barber and Bill Parks starring as herself called "The Orange Years" about 80s & 90s Nickelodeon nostalgia which is out on Hulu and most platforms. You can also see Alisa in a documentary called "Butterfly in the Sky" which premiered at Tribeca Film Festival and is now streaming on Netflix Alisa's latest music single " Back & Forth" featuring and produced by Linnie King Twigg and mixed & mastered by DJ EVIL DEE, along with her single "Sexy Hot" are now available on all media platforms through TuneCore, iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify and more. Alisa prior to her solo music career was in a girls group called "3G's" signed with Hollywood Records. The group had a song on "The Princess Diaries Soundtrack" called "Second Chance". Approximate Rundown 00:00 Back to School Intro 01:54 Meet Elisa Reyes 03:00 New York Roots 04:13 Elisa's Career Snapshot 05:50 All That Origins 08:39 Auditions and Set School 10:46 Mom's Support System 13:13 Parenting and Balance 16:03 From All That to One World 20:28 Big Roles and Industry Legends 22:17 Winning An Award for One World 24:22 Voice Acting and Self Tapes 31:17 Proud Family Reboot and Relevance 34:37 Celebrity Family Feud Stories 36:43 Blossom Hats Influence 38:47 Soap Opera Wildness 42:29 Reading Rainbow Memories 47:16 Nickelodeon Nostalgia Shift 49:02 Phones Algorithms Parenting 51:55 Social Media Cringe Culture 55:07 Cartoon Universe Picks 57:46 90s Fashion Comeback 59:38 TGIF Favorites Trauma TV 01:03:06 Kids Shows Vibes Wrap 01:05:10 Plugs Farewell Outro Book The Nostalgia Test Podcast Bring The Nostalgia Test Podcast's high energy fun and comedy on your podcast, to host your themed parties & special events! The Nostalgia Test Podcast will create an unforgettable Nostalgic experience for any occasion because we are the party! We bring it 100% of the time! Email us at thenostalgiatest@gmail.com or fill out the form at this link. LET'S GET NOSTALGIC! Keep up with all things The Nostalgia Test Podcast on Instagram | Substack | Discord | TikTok | Bluesky | YouTube | Facebook The intro and outro music ('Neon Attack 80s') is by Emanmusic. The Lithology Brewing ad music ("Red, White, Black, & Blue") is by PEG and the Rejected
In episode74 of the Princeton Podcast, Mayor Mark Freda sat down with Julie Diana Hench, the Executive Director of the Princeton Ballet Society, for an in-depth discussion about the nonprofit organization's three distinct but unified parts: the American Repertory Ballet, the Princeton Ballet School, and their Access & Enrichment Program.Julie discusses the rich history and vital mission of the Princeton Ballet School, the official school of the American Repertory Ballet. She highlights the school's significant and enduring popularity within the Princeton community.Julie also discusses the American Repertory Ballet, focusing on its prestige, the world-class reputation of its artistic directors, and the exceptional talent of its company of professional dancers. The discussion also highlights the relationship between American Repertory Ballet, the Princeton Ballet School, and the organization's community-focused Access & Enrichment programs.00:00 Meet Julie Diana Hench00:05 Three Programs Explained01:00 Origins of the School02:49 Mission and Leadership04:50 Inside the Company05:38 Auditions and Training07:34 Shows and Community Events10:04 Classes for Everyone11:42 Access and Enrichment Impact14:59 Nonprofit Structure and Board16:39 Jobs Volunteers and Live Music19:00 Why Dance Matters20:37 How to Support and Visit21:56 Locations and New Brunswick Performing Arts Center23:47 Trainee Program Rigors25:38 What's Next and Wrap Up
America's Got Talent (AGT) is celebrating its 21st season!Judges Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B, alongside host Terry Crews, will return for the 21st search for the million-dollar talent on June 2 on NBC and Peacock. To commemorate the 21st season, Jake's take with Jacob Elyachar is taking a retrospective on the 21 auditions that changed the NBC talent competition forever:1) Rapping Granny (Vivian Smallwood)* - Season One FINALIST2) Terry Fator - Season Two WINNER3) Nuttin' But Stringz - Season Three FINALISTS4) Barbara Padilla - Season Four RUNNER-UP5) Prince Poppycock - Season Five FOURTH PLACE6) Team iLuminate - Season Six THIRD PLACE7) Kenichi Ebina - Season Eight WINNER8) Mat Franco - Season Nine WINNER9) Emil & Dariel - Season Nine FINALISTS10) Drew Lynch - Season 10 RUNNER-UP11) The Clairvoyants - Season 11 RUNNERS-UP 12) Shin Lim - Season 13 WINNER 13) Angel City Chorale - Season 13 SEMIFINALISTS14) Kodi Lee - Season 14 WINNER15) Voices of Service - Season 14 FIFTH PLACE16) Brandon Leake - Season 15 WINNER17) Nightbirde* - Season 16 PARTICIPANT 18) Drake Milligan - Season 17 THIRD PLACE & Chapel Hart - Season 17 FIFTH PLACE 19) Mzansi Youth Choir - Season 18 FINALISTS20) Ramadhani Brothers - Season 18 FIFTH PLACE21) Jessica Sanchez - Season 20 WINNERWhat are your favorite AGT auditions of all-time?*= Of Blessed MemoryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.
Ever wonder if holding your script during an audition is costing you roles?Many actors think being off-book is optional because casting says it is not required. But auditions are about standing out, not just meeting the basic rules.When another actor comes in fully prepared and connected, it can make a big difference in who casting remembers.In this episode, you'll discover:Why one small audition habit can make you seem less ready, even when your acting is strong.How a simple change in your prep can help you create a stronger connection in the room.The hidden signal casting teams notice that can make you look more confident and professional.Listen now to learn how better preparation can help you walk into auditions feeling ready and give yourself a stronger chance at booking the role.Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: https://www.martinbentsen.comAdditional Resources:Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.comThis show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.
Comedian Sara Weinshenk sits down with comedian Erica Rhodes for a hilarious episode of SHENK covering everything from AI-generated comedy and social media algorithms to terrible tattoos, improv classes, commercial auditions, aliens, and dating disasters. Erica talks about studying cello in college, dropping out to move to New York for love, and why comedians are secretly terrible at improv. Sara shares nightmare stories about bad tattoos, hooking up with a comic with a belly button ring, and her endless quest to finally book a national commercial. If you like stand-up comedy podcasts, comedian interviews, behind-the-scenes comedy talk, and unfiltered conversations about life in LA comedy — this episode is for you. #SHENK #SaraWeinshenk #EricaRhodes #ComedyPodcast #StandUpComedy
Our heroes don't use their powers much this episode, but boy oh boy do people smoke in high school! If you like "smoking cigarettes in and around high school, during the day, alongside teachers" this is YOUR episode. Enjoy!Follow us on bluesky for goodness sake, it's fun! And it's probably the best way to contact us, all things considered.Special Thanks as always to Sydney and Benjamin Paul and Tyler Button, and our Big Freak Spacejamfan!This episode features additional sound design by Michaël Ghelfi. Michaël creates brilliantly crafted soundscapes and ambient tracks for all sort of productions and they make perfect accompaniment to your ttrpg home games. Find his work on YouTube, and support that good stuff on Patreon.Subscribe and Rate Rude Tales of Magic on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and leave us a review!Advertise on Rude Tales of Magic via Gumball.fm.Support the show: https://www.rudetalesofmagic.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Disney Auditions, Florida Laws, and Hurricane Season
In this raw, funny, and surprisingly emotional episode, our guest Cameron Grant talks about growing up as a fifth generation Longmontian, discovering the power of choir, and why he thinks everyone should join one already. What starts as a conversation about music and community (and the new choir Cameron is launching, Saint Vrain Chorus) unfolds into something much deeper as Cameron shares a life-changing challenge he's facing. And why he genuinely believes singing together may be part of the answer. This episode will make you want to find your people and sing louder.Check out the new Saint Vrain Chorus. Auditions starting in June.And for the seasoned singers AND choir-curious, come to a casual community sing on May 29 at 470 Main Street in Longmont! Simple singing followed by drinks and/or the FACE concert downtown.Thanks to Andy Eppler and David Cutter Music for our intro and outro music. SideDishLongmont@gmail.com.
Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, George Jones Jr. shares his unconventional path into the dance industry, from starting dance at 17 to building a successful commercial career working with artists like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, and Usher. He opens up about coming from a musical theater foundation, teaching himself hip-hop through culture and observation, and learning how to navigate the industry by staying adaptable, observant, and open to unexpected opportunities. His story is a powerful reminder that there is no single timeline in dance, and that success often comes from taking a different road than the one you originally imagined.George also dives deep into the realities of the professional dance world, including how relationships can shape your career more than money, why strategy matters in auditions, and how dancers must learn to identify their lane while still building versatility. He speaks candidly about moving from New York to Los Angeles, booking major opportunities through submissions and connections, and eventually transitioning from performer to choreographer and mentor. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes collaboration, self-awareness, resilience, and the importance of building a career that reflects who you truly are, not just what the industry expects from you.Top 10 Show Notes3:47 — George started dancing at 176:31 — College scholarship launched his dance path8:55 — He found his lane in dance10:46 — Rhapsody James changed his commercial career15:22 — New York built grit and artistic layers18:56 — LA became the next career move26:09 — Skeleton crew work led to bigger jobs31:00 — Britney tour came through visibility and submissions41:00 — He built his own lane as choreographer1:08:19 — Auditions require strategy, not just talentBiography:George Jones Jr. is an accomplished choreographer, educator, and performer with extensive experience across commercial dance, live performance, and elite team choreography. His career launched working with Britney Spears and has since included collaborations with Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, and Usher, along with appearances on major television shows, award stages, and international tours.A graduate of Marymount Manhattan College, George combines strong technical training with a foundation in production and visual design, bringing a well-rounded creative approach to his work. Which ranges from a flashy Jazz and Jazz Funk Technique, to a hard hitting and visually impactful Hip Hop technique. He has choreographed for professional teams including the Dallas Cowboys Rhythm & Blue Dancers and Sacramento Kings Dancers, and has spent over a decade working with Varsity Spirit, developing and training dancers at a national level.Currently represented by MSA Agency, George continues to teach and choreograph internationally while focusing on creating high-impact work for collegiate and professional dance teams.Connect on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrgeorgejonesjr/
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I'm Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with casting director Tiffany Little Canfield for part one of our conversation.Season 6 is here. Tiffany Little Canfield is the perfect way to kick it off — a casting director who's been on both sides of the table and has a lot to say about what actors are getting wrong.Tiffany's path into casting wasn't a straight line. She started in acting, moved into directing — including work with opera singers — and eventually found her way to casting, where her directing background changed how she reads actors and scene work. That experience in the room as a director is something she brings to every project.We get into what a casting director actually does day to day, what it looks like to interview for those jobs, and how Tiffany thinks about actors differently because of her background. We also talk about the misconception around acting and fame, why continuous training is non-negotiable, how subjective casting really is, what self-tapes mean for the audition process now, and the biggest challenges actors are facing in the industry.In this episode we discuss:Tiffany's path from acting to directing to castingWhat casting directors actually doWorking with opera singers and how it shapes her approachThe misconception of acting and fameWhy continuous training matters at every levelThe subjectivity of casting and what that means for actorsSelf-tapes and how auditions have changedThe biggest challenges in the acting industry today00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:00:28 - Early Life and Influence on Career 00:00:39 - Journey into Acting and Realization 00:01:57 - Transition from Acting to Directing 00:03:10 - Transition from Directing to Casting 00:09:02 - Understanding the Role of a Casting Director 00:09:45 - Interviewing for Jobs as a Casting Director 00:11:52 - Working with Opera Singers 00:13:21 - Understanding Actors and Scene Work 00:13:37 - Influence of Directing Degree in Casting 00:15:01 - Closing Thoughts on Actor Expectations 00:15:30 - The Misconception of Acting and Fame 00:17:08 - The Importance of Continuous Training for Actors 00:18:47 - The Subjectivity of Acting and Casting 00:22:04 - The Role of Self-Tapes in Auditions 00:24:29 - The Biggest Challenges in the Acting Industry#DMF #TiffanyLittleCanfield #CastingDirector #Acting #TelseyCompany #ActingTips #SelfTape #Audition #Filmmaking
They auditions for James Bond have started, Pete Davidson splits with girlfriend, Rooster scores a big win for HBO, Bay To Breakers this weekend, and Fast Facts!
We're learning more about what President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jingping discussed this week in Beijing. On his return to the US, Trump also explained why he rejected Iran's latest peace proposal. A US delegation traveled to Havana to meet with Cuban officials for the first time since 2016. A livestreamer known for posting racist content is facing attempted murder after a shooting. Plus, auditions for the new James Bond have begun – and we'll tell you who may be in the running Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Auditions everywhere. That's the current vibe for Ohio State football recruiting. Many want in. Few will actually enter. This is the time Ohio State's staff dials in on who to grant the elite opportunity. That means scouring Ohio. That means inviting coveted prospects from all over the country to campus. Garrick Hodge was at Under Armour's Columbus camp over the weekend. Mark Porter has traversed Ohio several times to determine the Buckeye State's best. Luckily, both are on this show and have all the news you need from their efforts. Spend 5ish with us this a.m., 'Nutters! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Interview Date: April 26th, 2026Episode Summary:In this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato sits down with Karynn Hough, Director of Millennium Dance Complex Nashville and founder of Fresh Talent Group, for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a dance career outside of the traditional LA/New York path. Karynn shares how her daughter's professional journey helped spark her desire to create more opportunities for Nashville dancers, eventually leading her to launch an agency rooted in mentorship, relationships, and genuine care for talent.Karynn opens up about the growth of Nashville's entertainment scene, the power of collaboration between agencies, and why dancers should never limit themselves to one box. From casting Emmy-winning commercial work to seeing choreography land inside Fortnite, she reminds dancers that authentic work, strong preparation, and being visible can lead to unexpected opportunities.Throughout the conversation, Karynn gives practical advice for young dancers pursuing representation: follow instructions, keep training, clean up your Instagram, build an EPK, research the people in the room, and be kind to everyone. She also emphasizes the importance of improv, professionalism, persistence, and creating your own opportunities, especially for dancers from smaller cities or nontraditional markets.Show Notes:(00:41) Karynn's early dance roots and family inspiration(03:27) Why Nashville needed its own talent agency(04:50) How Solace helped inspire Karynn's career path(06:00) Fresh Talent Group meets Millennium Dance Complex(09:40) Millennium becomes Nashville's creative rehearsal hub(12:17) Representing dancers, singers, actors, and influencers(14:05) Why Karynn refuses to box dancers in(16:38) Emmy-winning work from authentic creative passion(20:23) Advice for international dancers pursuing American agencies(32:00) Instagram presence matters more than dancers realize(35:20) Why every dancer needs a strong EPK(40:01) The biggest teen mistake: ignoring instructions(42:23) Improv reveals smart, castable dancers quickly(47:00) Auditions begin before entering the room(1:26:58) Small-town dancers need perseverance and uniquenessBiography:Karynn Wright-Hough is an Emmy Award–winning talent agent, entrepreneur, and Founder of FreshTalent Group, a boutique agency representing dancers, choreographers, actors, singers, and specialty talent. Originally from Buffalo, NY, she combines her background in journalism, marketing, and design with a passion for developing artists and building lasting careers.Inspired in part by watching her daughter Solace pursue her own professional path, Karynn launched FreshTalent Group in 2016 to create a trustworthy, family-centered approach to talent representation. She is known for guiding artists holistically — from development and branding to booking and long-term strategy — always prioritizing longevity over quick wins.Under her leadership, the agency has worked with major networks and award-winning artists across country, pop, gospel, and hip-hop. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Karynn is a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, enjoys crocheting and crafting, and is most proud of the community and culture she has built through mentorship, integrity, and heart.Connect on Social Media:Website: www.freshtalentgroup.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshtalentgroup/
The indictment centers on a year old social media post featuring seashells which was already investigated and set aside by the Secret Service. The timing of this renewed interest appears linked to recent events at the White House Correspondents Dinner and a desire to prove loyalty to Donald Trump. Critics suggest that the focus has shifted from obtaining actual guilty verdicts to simply filing indictments against perceived political enemies like the Southern Poverty Law Center and James Comey. Jim Jordan and other allies continue to support these moves publicly despite the legal weakness of the cases. Analysis of the charges under 18 USC section 871 reveals significant hurdles regarding free speech and the lack of imminent threat. This latest legal maneuver is being characterized by many as a political vendetta rather than a legitimate pursuit of justice. The Eastern District of North Carolina is now the staging ground for a case that many believe will be dismissed on substantive grounds just like previous attempts. SUPPORT & CONNECT WITH HAWK- Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mdg650hawk - Hawk's Merch Store: https://hawkmerchstore.com - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mdg650hawk7thacct - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hawkeyewhackamole - Connect on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mdg650hawk.bsky.social - Connect on Substack: https://mdg650hawk.substack.com - Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hawkpodcasts - Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdg650hawk - Connect on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mdg650hawk ALL HAWK PODCASTS INFO- Additional Content Available Here: https://www.hawkpodcasts.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@hawkpodcasts- Listen to Hawk Podcasts On Your Favorite Platform:Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RWeJfyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/422GDuLYouTube: https://youtube.com/@hawkpodcastsiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/47vVBdPPandora: https://bit.ly/48COaTB
There are so many incredibly talented actors out there. And so many of them do not get seen. Meanwhile there are actors with less training booking roles more regularly. And if you are one of those highly trained actors, that is so freaking frustrating. It brings up all the not so helpful questions. Am I not good enough? Why am I not getting these opportunities? Insert your favorite self-doubt here. But here's the truth. Talent alone does not guarantee visibility. I know this as a casting director. I also know this as an actor. Talent Is Only One Piece of the Puzzle Acting is an art. Just like painting, just like dancing, just like writing. But the industry that hires actors is a business. And casting directors, I can certainly say this for myself, are not only looking for great performances. We're also asking very practical questions. Does this actor fit this role? Do they understand the tone, the energy of the project? Do I feel they are professional and prepared? And then my personal favorite: does this actor know they are a good actor? What tends to happen is actors focus entirely on craft while overlooking the business side. And if you want to make a living as an actor you need to understand that both parts matter. Actually I'd say there's a third part. One of my favorite casting directors of all time, David Katy, talks about this. It's a three part job. The art, the business, and the work on yourself. Clarity Around Your Positioning One of the reasons talented actors stay invisible is that casting directors don't know where to place them. Or they try to present themselves as everything, and that just doesn't work. Confusion makes me delete. It really does. It makes me discard and move on. Go for the low hanging fruit. If you've ever seen pictures of me I am very blonde, blue-eyed, very east coast. I look like I went to preparatory school in Connecticut. And you know why? Because that's exactly what I am. I am the boss. I am the lawyer. That's my low hanging fruit. I'll tell you an embarrassing story. When I was 16 I went to a summer course at the American Academy of Dramatic Art in New York and I wanted to do Runaways. A show about kids on the street, in foster care, drug addicted. I would love to go back to my 16 year old self and say honey, that ain't you. Any John Hughes monologue would have been so much more appropriate. But hey, I was 16. And I met a really cute boy there so that was awesome. The point is, be where you're at. Go for what you really are. Casting works insanely quickly and we need to understand in seconds where you fit. Visibility Requires Consistent Action Another reason talented actors remain invisible is that they are not consistently putting themselves out into the industry ecosystem. Most careers grow through steady participation in the professional community. Steady participation. A lot of actors wait for the industry to discover them. They wait for the phone to ring. That is just not how it works anymore. What I call putting your business on a schedule means knowing exactly what to do and when to do it throughout the year. Auditions, networking, social media, industry relationships, creating your own work, staying engaged with casting directors and collaborators. Gabrielle Bernstein says the energy you put out is the energy you attract. That steady participation energy is so important. Confidence and Presence This is the secret sauce. This is the thing I cannot state strongly enough. I was talking to my teacher Ken Ray from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, who has taught Michelle Dockery, Damien Lewis, Joseph Fiennes, Orlando Bloom, Hayley Atwell, Lily James, Ewan McGregor. I asked him what is the thing they all have. And he talked about presence. That energy. That is what I am always looking to cultivate with my clients. Two actors can have equal talent. The one who walks in with grounded confidence is the one who makes the stronger impression and books the job. It's the actor who is good at their job and knows they're good at their job. Confidence doesn't mean arrogance. It means believing you belong in the room. Confidence isn't something that casting gives you. It's something you decide before you go in the door, before you push record on that self tape. The only person I ever have to convince is me. And that just happens to be the hardest person on the planet. But that's the only person I have to convince. The Bottom Line Talent matters. But visibility in this industry comes from a combination of things. Craft, clarity, consistency, and confidence. It's a three part job. The art, the business, and the work on yourself. Talent can open the possibility of an incredible acting career. But clarity and consistency and confidence is what allows the industry to really see you. Want to Keep the Conversation Going? For a limited time I am opening up my calendar for free 15 minute Zoom consults. Email me at peter@actingbusinessbootcamp.com for a time slot. And as I always say, stay safe and treat yourself real well.
In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Charlotte Delaney Riggs, an award-winning actress and rising talent known for projects like Austin High, Thunder Road, and Through a Glass, Dimly.Charlotte shares her journey from performing in elementary school theater productions to working professionally in film and television—while balancing school, auditions, and life as a young actor in today's fast-changing entertainment industry.
Solo Jim: I have nothing left, except Spider-man and Jim. That's right no Mike or Jeff this week but Jim is your savior on this fine Adam Scott Nickelback Birthday Bash.Stand By Me In Theaters: Corey Feldman snuck into a screening of Stand By Me and couldn't stop filming the screen for his social media. Fine this dude for piracy.Crowd Controversy: EROK has launched an investigation into the crowd photos from Goonies and Stand By Me screenings that have been posted by Corey. He has an expert on hand and everything! Is this a thing?COREY FELDMAN!, SHOW STOPPER!, LET'S JUST TALK!, DON CHEADLE!, BOOGIE NIGHTS!, JIM AND THEM IS POP CULTURE!, CHRIS HANSEN!, HAVE A SEAT!, DATELINE!, TO CATCH A PREDATOR!, REAL ONES!, LVL UP EXPO!, HACKAMANIA!, LIVE!, SOLO SHOW!, NO JEFF!, NO MIKE!, ONLY JIM!, JUST JIM!, FAKE FRIENDS!, WHO'S LEFT!?, FRIDAY NIGHT!, 22 NECKLACE!, REAL ONES!, KISS EM IF YOU GOT EM!, AUDITIONS!, NICKELBACK BIRTHDAY BASH!, ADAM SCOTT!, NO MAS!, SIPPING ON SHOTS!, PO BOX!, HOOK!, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE!, CHRIS HANSEN CAMEO!, FIRST THING IN THE MORNING!, GOBLIN GHOUL!, APRIL FOOLS!, ADAN GONZALEZ!, STAUNCH TV!, DRAFTED!, IRAN!, WAR!, PROTECT ME!, ICP!, MIRACLES!, THE BOY BLUE!, COREY FELDMAN!, STAND BY ME!, SNEAK INTO THEATER!, WEDNESDAY!, WATCHED STAND BY ME TOGETHER!, THEATRICAL RELEASE!, MILES APART!, CHOPPER SIC BALLS!, JIM AND THEM FINALE SPECIAL!, INTERVIEW!, PLAYING WITH YOUR FRIENDS!, AWKWARD!, ANNOYED!, RUDE!, YAWNING!, AARP!, WIL WHEATON!, ANNOYING!, PERFORMATIVE!, SUMMERTIME!, JERRY O'CONNELL!, BORED!, SHALLOW!, RIVER PHOENIX!, VEGETARIAN!, INTO MUSIC!, COPIED!, BREAKING BAD!, STOLE DEAD PEOPLE'S HABITS!, FENIX TX!, KRISTIN!, DENISE RICHARDS!, BRAVE BROWSER!, FAKE CROWD!, PHOTOSHOP!, AI!, EROK!, SATURATION!, CONTRAST!, DOCTORED PHOTOS!, INVESTIGATION!, FIVERR!,
Solo Jim: I have nothing left, except Spider-man and Jim. That's right no Mike or Jeff this week but Jim is your savior on this fine Adam Scott Nickelback Birthday Bash.Stand By Me In Theaters: Corey Feldman snuck into a screening of Stand By Me and couldn't stop filming the screen for his social media. Fine this dude for piracy.Crowd Controversy: EROK has launched an investigation into the crowd photos from Goonies and Stand By Me screenings that have been posted by Corey. He has an expert on hand and everything! Is this a thing?COREY FELDMAN!, SHOW STOPPER!, LET'S JUST TALK!, DON CHEADLE!, BOOGIE NIGHTS!, JIM AND THEM IS POP CULTURE!, CHRIS HANSEN!, HAVE A SEAT!, DATELINE!, TO CATCH A PREDATOR!, REAL ONES!, LVL UP EXPO!, HACKAMANIA!, LIVE!, SOLO SHOW!, NO JEFF!, NO MIKE!, ONLY JIM!, JUST JIM!, FAKE FRIENDS!, WHO'S LEFT!?, FRIDAY NIGHT!, 22 NECKLACE!, REAL ONES!, KISS EM IF YOU GOT EM!, AUDITIONS!, NICKELBACK BIRTHDAY BASH!, ADAM SCOTT!, NO MAS!, SIPPING ON SHOTS!, PO BOX!, HOOK!, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE!, CHRIS HANSEN CAMEO!, FIRST THING IN THE MORNING!, GOBLIN GHOUL!, APRIL FOOLS!, ADAN GONZALEZ!, STAUNCH TV!, DRAFTED!, IRAN!, WAR!, PROTECT ME!, ICP!, MIRACLES!, THE BOY BLUE!, COREY FELDMAN!, STAND BY ME!, SNEAK INTO THEATER!, WEDNESDAY!, WATCHED STAND BY ME TOGETHER!, THEATRICAL RELEASE!, MILES APART!, CHOPPER SIC BALLS!, JIM AND THEM FINALE SPECIAL!, INTERVIEW!, PLAYING WITH YOUR FRIENDS!, AWKWARD!, ANNOYED!, RUDE!, YAWNING!, AARP!, WIL WHEATON!, ANNOYING!, PERFORMATIVE!, SUMMERTIME!, JERRY O'CONNELL!, BORED!, SHALLOW!, RIVER PHOENIX!, VEGETARIAN!, INTO MUSIC!, COPIED!, BREAKING BAD!, STOLE DEAD PEOPLE'S HABITS!, FENIX TX!, KRISTIN!, DENISE RICHARDS!, BRAVE BROWSER!, FAKE CROWD!, PHOTOSHOP!, AI!, EROK!, SATURATION!, CONTRAST!, DOCTORED PHOTOS!, INVESTIGATION!, FIVERR!,
Tangent hive, THIS is your episode. We've got a rare in-person recording on our hands and hoooo boy do these two cover a RANGE of topics. Rats. Bloomin onions. The Purge. Davidoff Cool Water. Auditions. Tongue twisters. The New Girl episode too, of course. But it wouldn't be The Mess Around without a healthy dose of metaphorical roaming around, ya know?Follow @TheMessAroundPod on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.Rate The Mess Around on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!This is a Headgum podcast. Follow Headgum on Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.