Jason Klamm is an actor, podcaster, director and writer based in Los Angeles. He has directed three feature films, including the documentary "Lords of Soaptown," and he directed one of the world's first viral videos, in 2001. He's published two books, has finished his third, and is working on two more. He runs the StolenDress Podcast Network and hosts the history-making "Comedy on Vinyl" podcast and acts monthly in the hit LA stage show "A Drinking Game."
 
 
Tell us about your credits. What projects have you worked on?
 
I've starred in two improvised mockumentary feature films, and most recently you would've seen me in an episode of "Drunk History," with Elijah Wood and Sophia Bush, in the final season.
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
I've just finished writing my memoir, "The Professional Blur," which is about my time in entertainment so far, especially when I was an extra. I'm currently working on a web series called "Jay of All Trades" where I show how I do everything from prop-making to narrating and editing audiobooks to sculpting. I'm also in the final editing stages of my latest sketch comedy album with my comedy group "Dan and Jay's Comedy Hour."
 
 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/jasonklamm.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>
 
What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
I was genuinely blown away by WandaVision. I'm not a comic book reader, or a Marvel movie loyalist, but I thought it was a perfectly-constructed season of television. There was so much densely-packed into those TV show homages that I was surprised to see that some people didn't like those segments - you just had to read between the lines to enjoy it.
 
 
If you could work/be on any show, what show would that be?
 
I'd do just about anything to be on "What We Do in the Shadows," because it happens to be exactly my dark sense of humor, mixed with the aesthetic of some of my favorite shows.
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
Don't expect to be doing what you want to do right away. Be willing to try new stuff, but don't do anything that makes you feel less than who you are - don't put yourself in danger, because that's a learning experience you won't get anything positive from. The best advice I ever got was from Tom Lennon, who said "Greenlight yourself," which is to say, make your own stuff (which I was doing already, but it served as a reminder that I was doing the right thing). That's kind of the standard now, since YouTube exists, but when I started, having a viral video didn't mean you could get TV or film deals, so I've always been a very DIY filmmaker.
 
 
What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
2021 is a difficult one, but I think it's still going to be a year for reassessment for many of us. I won't be taking the risks many people are - I won't be auditioning or working with other people until I'm vaccinated. The best tip for success I can give is to take care of yourself first, make sure you're safe, so that when it's safe to work again, you'll be here to get those jobs. In the meantime, come up with a few ideas that would be great vehicles for you. Even if you don't write them yourself, having an idea for something that fits you to a T is a good way to analyze what you really want from your career.
 
 
Where can we find you online?
 [Website](http://jasonklamm.com) 
 [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/jklamm)

Spotlight on Industry Pro - Jason Klamm

And we're back with another fun list of all the shows we'd recommend watching. This month we've got a list packed with both old and new shows that we've been vibing to. Let's dive in:
 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
Better Call Saul (Netflix)
 - Brad, Chief Technology Officer @ Casting Depot 
<iframe width="1181" height="664" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YCcq2BkxiaE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Netflix)
 - Justin, Egineer @ Casting Depot 
<iframe width="1181" height="664" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-1v_q6TWAL4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
iCarly (Netflix)
 - Lacey, Co-Founder/CEO @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="1181" height="664" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/63_JPbtQ0Nc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
Allen v. Farrow (HBOMax)
 - Minna, MBA Intern @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cKTOj7HnLbo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
Trial of the Chicago 7 (Netflix)
 - Jocelyn, Product Intern @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FVb6EdKDBfU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
Glow (Netflix)
 - Josh, Head of Design @ Casting Depot 
<iframe width="885" height="498" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9iM7W1Dvl6Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
How Valheim Shook Up Survival Game‪s (Apple Podcast)
 - Ty, Engineer @ Casting Depot
<iframe allow="autoplay *; encrypted-media *; fullscreen *" frameborder="0" height="175" style="width:100%;max-width:660px;overflow:hidden;background:transparent;" sandbox="allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-storage-access-by-user-activation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation" src="https://embed.podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/how-valheim-shook-up-survival-games/id1039413502?i=1000511667005"></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure (Hulu)
 - Jake, Advisor @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kiuT0l4T1tk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
This Is Us (Peacock)
 - Theo, Junior Engineer @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="1118" height="629" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tcKPx5OY6HI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
	
And that's our list for this month. If you have shows that you're binging that we should watch, tweet us! Find us on Twitter [here](https://www.twitter.com/castingdepot).

What We're Watching in April

What I love most about working in casting is that I'm always challenged with finding a great story. It's my job to place individuals on camera that represent every type of viewer there is, no matter how difficult it is to cast that individual. Why? Because representation matters in entertainment and media. Period.

Historically there's been a handful of things wrong in the casting process, however more specifically in the workflow process itself. When talent is decentralized, access to gigs is limited, and there are high barriers to entry - it makes finding the story difficult. I wrote a little bit about the workflow process [here](https://medium.com/@laceykaelani/why-the-casting-industry-needs-a-tech-makeover-7b58b0429aab) so that I could better emulate the day-to-day inefficiencies that make casting the bottleneck in our industry. In that same article, I also wrote about the massive pivot we saw about 6–8 years ago when the wave of all things digital pushed the possibility and availability of different types of distribution channels on to the market. When there's more to create, there's more to cast, and therefore a shorter turn-around time to find authentic, genuine, human stories. Casting directors are now finding it harder and harder to focus on quality and instead are being forced to focus on quantity.

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/advice+articles/diversity.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>

As the industry evolves as a result of the challenge outlined above, we're seeing more and more avenues to highlight diversity across a variety of channels. So - why am I writing about this? I recently read [a report put out by McKinsey](https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/black-representation-in-film-and-tv-the-challenges-and-impact-of-increasing-diversity#) that showed **"[diversity] inequity persists and is deeply entrenched across the film and TV ecosystem"**. It went on to highlight underrepresented talent across the industry, particularly on and off-screen. Research on positions of creative control revealed that less than 6% of the writers, directors, and producers of US-produced films, are African American. And to top it off, only 11% of talent cast for leading film roles are African American (which are often funneled to race-related projects, which typically receive lower investment in both production and promotion). As a first-generation American from a culture that's never represented on television (I'm not African American, I'm Surinamese), reading this article made me both upset and motivated. Upset - because these are the facts in underrepresented minorities, and motivated because my team and I are in the unique position to make a special change in the industry. 

At Casting Depot, we recognize that breaking into the industry is hard - regardless of who you are. Finding auditions, getting in front of casting directors, and lastly, telling your story - it's all a daunting monster in your closet waiting to be faced. Booking that dream gig, historically, could take years of work without pay (or insufficient pay), a ton of "no's", and constant frustration. The phrase "it's all about who you know" couldn't be more archaic.

When we set out to build Casting Depot, it was (and still is) our goal to democratize access to every type of on-camera gig, both union and non-union. We're free, which removes the barrier to entry. We're a network, which challenges the idea of the traditional job board in the industry. And lastly - we've built tools that allow you to represent who you are in every facet of your life, allowing for more representation in the talent-booking process. Why has it taken so long for the casting industry to create a tool that celebrate and highlights diversity? Who knows. But I promise we're building as fast, and accurately, as we can.

The McKinsey's report called out "Without a formal search or recruitment process or an established protocol for hiring, industry access can come down to who you know." We're looking to formalize just this - for the casting industry - via our network, so that casting is no longer just about "who you know" and more of a "because you put yourself out there".

As McKinsey proposes solutions to combat the racial complexities and challenges of the film and TV industry through its interviewing on-screen talent, off-screen writers, producers, directors, executives, agents, and crew members, we hope that our users who work at studios and networks make progress towards creating an impact as well. As more industry leaders begin to focus on increasing representation in important decision-making positions (e.g. - casting directors), our goal is that Casting Depot plays a part in promoting diversity equity within each production's talent selection.

Our dream is to continue seeing studios put into place initiatives that "include dedicated training and sponsorship programs (including networking opportunities) for diverse creators, as well as a certain number or share of pitch slots regularly reserved for underrepresented talent" as we build a similar concept of accountability and transparency into our platform.

To learn more about our site and the network we're building, [click here](https://www.castingdepot.com/about). 

-Lacey, Co-Founder @ Casting Depot 🚀

Saying Representation Matters is Not Enough - How Casting Depot Can Play a Part in Changing Hollywood’s System

It's the last week of February and casting directors are looking for fresh talent! Are you ready to book the next audition? Here are the casting calls that are hot on our radar from the Casting Depot feed:
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/advice+articles/feed3.png" align="center" width="1200" height="300"/>


<h3 class="text-center">🔥 Sit-A-Bit: Parent Influencers </h3>
 
Sit-A-Bit, a viral new startup in the childcare space, is reimagining how parents access childcare! Through our marketplace, parents can manage and discover activities for their kids. They're now looking for parent influencers and bloggers for their next AD campaign who have experience juggling busy schedules!

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/parentinfluencers). 


<h3 class="text-center">🔥 Jubilee Media: Mother & Son Duos </h3>
 
Jubliee Media is currently looking to cast MOTHERS AND SONS to be featured in a non-scripted series they have, Sex Ed. Sex Ed, is their latest new series that centers around a group of people answering audience questions about sex and sexual health, and sharing their own personal stories and perspectives along the way. This MOTHER AND SON pair will be on set discussing/answering the audiences questions about Sex!

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/motherandson). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-center">📸 Amazon Ad</h3>
Exit 14 Productions is now casting Lansinoh's new Birth Prep and Recovery product line for a commercial for online promotional use on Amazon.

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/lansinoh-ad). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
<h3 class="text-center">💕 My Extreme Baby Shower</h3>

When becoming a parent, everything has to be perfect. These days, young couples are stepping up their game to host the most lavish baby showers in preparation for their new arrival. Does this sound like you? Now casting soon-to-be parents who will be hosting a baby shower come May or June of 2021.

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/extremebabyshower). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-center">🗽April Labs: NY-Based Influencers</h3>

April Labs, an apartment rental app meant for the modern renter, is now casting NYC-based influencers who LOVE New York City. Casting wraps March 1.

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/nycbasedinfluencers). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-center">💍 TLC: 90 Day Fiancé</h3>

Now casting for TLC's 90 Day Fiancé! Casting wraps at the end of March.

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/90dayfiancecasting). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
Ready to stay up to date with awesome casting calls and learn more about the industry you love? Be sure to [create an account](https://www.castingdepot.com/signup) with Casting Depot today!

Castings of the Week 💫

Cassie & Sabrina Glow, known in the voiceover industry as the Glow Girls, are Professional Voiceover & Singing Artists based in Orlando, Florida. This Award-Winning Sister team has an impressive client list including Disney, Nickelodeon, Fisher Price, Sesame Street, PBS Kids, Spotify, LEGO, Netflix, NBC/Universal Kids, Hallmark and more - with some incredible projects to launch in 2021 & 2022. Their voices have been heard billions of times across the world!

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/glowgirls.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on?
 Together, we have recorded 600+ voiceover projects over the course of our career (we’ve spent a lot of time in the booth!) but some of our favorites include – 

Cassie – Voicing the role of Kid Cassandra in “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure”, one of our favorite shows that aired on Disney Channel. Not only did the character share my name, but it was the younger version of my favorite character, Cassandra, on the series voiced by my favorite singer Eden Espinosa. It was such an honor to be a part of Disney animation history!

Sabrina – Voicing the lead character, Mila, for 5+ years and 350+ episodes in “My Magic Pet Morphle”, a popular preschool show with over 5 Billion views and almost 10 million YouTube subscribers. This animated show is also on most major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV+, Kidoodle.TV and Amazon Prime. I love knowing that children across the world are happy hearing my voice!

The Society of Voice Arts and Sciences – Cassie won a Voice Arts® Award for her Singing & Voiceover work on the popular Fisher Price toy “Dance & Groove Rockit” and Sabrina won a Voice Arts® Award for her Singing & Voiceover work on the Amazon Alexa Kids’ app “Toy Doctor”. The SOVAS also recognized our Body of Work. To date, we are the youngest nominees and winners of the prestigious award, and I think the only Sister team too!
 

Are you working on anything cool right now?
 We are very excited about some projects launching in 2021 and 2022 (although we can’t disclose details yet). Here is what we can share – 
•	Both of us have a suite of Singing & Talking Toys coming out for several major toy companies.
•	Both of us are voicing characters in an animated mini-series together based on a Kids’ book from the New York Times Bestseller list, set to air on a major streaming service.
•	Cassie has multiple roles coming out for several popular animated series on major networks and streaming services.
•	Sabrina has a role coming out for a very popular animated series on a major network, as well as a lead role for an animated short film.

Animation and Toy production typically have very long lead times, so waiting is always the hardest part!


What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 Some of our favorite animated series and movies right now are “The Dragon Prince”, “Miraculous Lady Bug”, “Soul”, and “Over the Moon”. Non-animation related, we are big fans of “Brooklyn 99”, “The Masked Singer”, and “Nailed It”.

What’s one thing you do often that inspires you to continue to create?
 We are always watching different cartoons, animated movies, and animated short films. Seeing stories come to life through all styles of animation is really inspiring in and out of the booth. Voiceover is so closely intertwined with animation – how you deliver a line can influence how an animator draws a character, just as a character’s design can inspire your voiceover delivery and style. Additionally, studying cartoons and animated series and movies has inspired us to go a step further and take hands-on animation art classes to dive deeper into storytelling and character development (and maybe develop our own animated series someday!). 


What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 The voiceover industry is fun with lots of opportunity, but it is also extremely competitive too. For those wanting to break into the industry, the first thing to do is to take a class or workshop (there are many options available online to allow you access from anywhere). Taking an introductory class or workshop will help you explore the different styles of voiceover, and more importantly, help you find out if you enjoy it! Ongoing coaching and training is a key to success and remaining competitive in the voiceover industry.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 We actually have 2 insider tips…

First, having quality at home recording capabilities is a must have for voiceover in 2021. The industry underwent such a revolutionary change with the pandemic – the biggest of which was the need to be able to record voiceover from home. In the past, aspiring talent may have recorded auditions using just a phone app or relied upon their agencies or local studios to record auditions and bookings. Now, having quality sound for your auditions is expected, and the ability to record from home can be considered an edge for winning auditions and bookings. There are lots of resources online on how to build affordable at-home recording spaces.

Our second tip for success in voiceover in 2021 is authenticity. Being authentic in your performance is one of the most sought-after qualities in the business right now. Aim to put your personality and unique perspective into every audition or booking to create the most connected and engaging performance.


How can we find you?
 Website: https://glowgirlskidvoiceover.com/
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glowgirlsvo/
 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6E8f5cj581PerS4ZahBYSw
 Cassie Glow IMDb: https://www.imdb.me/CassieGlow
 Sabrina Glow IMDb: https://www.imdb.me/SabrinaGlow

The Glow Girls - Award-Winning Voiceover Sister Team Chats With Casting Depot

Abir Hashem is a 21-year-old Canadian visual artist from a small city called Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada. He initially was brought into the music industry at the bold age of 18 in the middle of his senior year of high school… funny enough through an Instagram DM from Drake’s Tour Manager to go on a nationwide tour with G-Eazy’s opening act. After some deliberation, he instead got flown into Toronto, Canada to film two nights at a venue called ‘The Shrine’ for G-Eazy’s “Beautiful & Damned: North American Tour.”

From that crazy opportunity, he was able to turn that into working as a tastemaker for artists through different avenues such as videography, photography, editing, animating, and being a stage & graphic designer. These skill sets have allowed him to work with different artists of different backgrounds such as Anthony Russo, G-Eazy, Marshmello, inverness, Jack Harlow, jackson lee morgan, Carly Rose, Dounia, Leven Kali and etc. With his age & experience, he still has a lot to learn and curate his taste but I’m confident enough to say that it is just the beginning of his flourishing career.
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/abirhashem.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on?
 
I’ve worked on plenty of music videos, visualizers, cover arts and documentary series for artists such as Anthony Russo, Christian French, jackson lee morgan, inverness, Carly Rose and etc. I was also able to animate cover arts and social assets such as trailers for G-Eazy’s single/album release campaigns. In 2021 I was able to design an one-hours’ worth of stage visuals for a virtual live concert for Christian French under Moment House. 
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
I’m just wrapping up some final touches for Anthony Russo’s new EP called ‘BLUE’. The project has eight songs that is attached with either a visualizer or a music video. This is all set to come out in Spring of 2021. But I actually have a cover art and music video coming out on February 18th, 2021 with jackson lee morgan called ‘wayside’! It will be one of the most vibrant things I’ve made so far in my career!
 
 
What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
My favorite show of 2021 is ‘Community.’ If ‘The Office’ didn’t exist most people would be more swayed to watch it. The directing, the writing, the cast and how it’s able to balance comedic and emotional beats is done terrifically well. Also, Donald Glover is in it and I love everything he does creatively! I can’t not recommend it enough! Go watch it!
 
 
What’s one thing you do often that inspires you to continue to create?
 
Inspiration comes to me in many different ways. I consumer other creatives’ work on a daily basis whether that’d be music videos, visualizers, recaps, movies and etc. which often links me to tie their visual components to an artist’s demo. More often than not, I plug my headphones in, go for a walk and let my mind run free with imagination. This could result in a simple idea for a shot or a complex storyline music video. Sometimes inspiration just hits you out of nowhere. But those two really help me get the creative juices flowing. 
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
My advice would be to keep being persistent no matter how hard it gets. So many people just want to see the short-term result and when they don’t receive it… they quit. This industry is made up of a lot of creatives who are hungry, want to succeed and end up rewarding whoever puts in the most effort. 
 
 
What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
Try to diversify your portfolio and learn new tricks & different outlets of art. The more you open yourself up to learn and try new things, the more opportunities open up. Try not to be so comfortable. Comfortability is a career killer! 
Your website and link to online video, if any.
 
 
[Website](https://hashbrowncreates.wixsite.com/abirhashem)
 
[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/abir.mov/?hl=en)

Abir Hashem Chats Music Videos, Sisualizers, and Creating Documentary Series 

Judd Apatow, film director and comedian best known for 40-Year-Old Virgin (Knocked Up, Funny People, This Is 40, and Trainwreck) has made the leap to Netflix with his production company - Apatow Productions. His next comedy, The Bubble, has just announced the cast selection of Karen Gillian, Iris Apatow, Maria Bakalova, David Duchovny, Peter Serafinowicz, Keegan-Michael Key, Leslie Mann, Fred Armisen, and Pedro Pascal. Phew!!

The Bubble is about a group of actors and actresses, during the pandemic, stuck inside a hotel attempting to complete their film. Sounds familiar - doesn't it? 

Alongside Pam Brady, the paid will produce and co-write the film. Barry Mendel and Donald Sabourin are on board to executive produce. Shooting is expected to start sometime in Q1 of this year.

This announcement comes on top of the year as the streamers battle it out for best produced original-content. Netflix has historically done a fantastic job of producing hillarious original comedies with strong cast memebers. We're betting this new film will be just as strong as the last. 

New Netflix Comedy ‘The Bubble’ Casts All-Stars

Rio Rocket is a multi-hyphenate film, television, and voice actor who has a recurring role on the ABC TV Series, *For Life* and motivational spokesperson for Lowe's Companies. He's been featured in publications such as SUCCESS, AUTHORITY, BillionSuccess and Ariana Huffington’s Thrive Global Magazine. 

He sat down with us to share his story along with tips and tricks into breaking into the industry as an actor. 
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png"/> 
 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/riorocket.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on? 
<style type="text/css">
</style>
I was fortunate to work on the ABC TV Series, For Life last year and now we're in our second season. The series is inspired by the life of Isaac Wright Jr., who was wrongfully sentenced to life in prison. He studied to become a lawyer while serving and overturned his sentence. For the past three years, I have worked with Lowe's Companies as their motivational spokesperson which has been an absolute dream. I travel down to their headquarters in Mooresville and Charlotte, NC approximately three times per year for various productions. I've also been fortunate enough to work on other exciting projects such as Alter Boy: The Series, a full advertising campaign for Jack Black Skincare and VOG (Voice of God) for John Jay College's annual Commencement Ceremony at Arthur Ashe Stadium in front of ten thousand people for three consecutive years.
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool? 
I'm currently working on my new podcast Design Your Decade: Journey to the C-Suite. An interactive professional development podcast that puts comedy and career growth in a blender and serves you a simple yet superb smoothie that's guaranteed to not cause brain-freeze. I host the show with co-host Rosann Santos and it's accessible on every major podcasting app and platform. It's been a blast to educate and entertain with this new platform while delivering my knowledge through audio performance.
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry? 
If you're looking to break into acting successfully begin by finding a mentor and a private coach. This is what I did initially. It's good to get a one-on-one assessment of what raw materials you have to work with. A mentor or coach will also be able to offer you guidance as to which career path may offer you the least resistance. Afterward take a class, study improvisation, workshop, rehearse, audition and repeat. Also get a professional headshot taken and build your online and social presence.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021? 
Take massive action in developing the skills you need in your profession. Right now we are at odds, not just with others in our field, but also with robotics and artificial intelligence. There are applications that can create entire music albums such as *I AM AI* by Taryn Southern. There are now technologies that can create artificially intelligent virtual actors as seen in *Gemini Man* with Will Smith. You're competing against that now. Your skills have to be so well-developed and honed to compete at a higher level these days. You have to be so unique that you are undeniable. You have to be so good in your auditions and performances that the casting director or audience wants to leave the room with you.

What’s your favorite TV show of 2020? 
Right now it's a toss-up between *Umbrella Academy* and *The Queen's Gambit*. I go crazy for the superhero genre and *Umbrella Academy* is just pure, brilliant fun and imagination let loose onto film. *The Queen's Gambit* appeals to my sensibilities of talent and genius put to action. Anya Taylor-Joy's character is incredibly deep and compelling.

Give us your plug! How can we follow you? 

<a href="https://www.DesignYourDecade.io">Design Your Decade: Podcast</a> 
<a href="https://RioRocket.com">Rio Rocket: Website</a> 
<a href="https://vimeo.com/riorocket">Rio Rocket: Vimeo Channel</a>

ABC Actor Rio Rocket Chat Industry Tips and Success

Alvin Cowan has worked with the biggest names including Clint Eastwood, James Caan, Bradley Cooper and Bruce Willis. Since his breakout acting career post college, he landed a recurring role in ABC’s “Back In The Game.” which lead to apperances in HBO’s critically-acclaimed series, “Westworld,” and had a recurring role in Season 3 of Emmy-nominated “This Is Us”. Cool, right? If that wasn't enough, he also works as a producer in which he currently has a development project in the works with Zero Point Zero, Basil Iwanyk, Eric Tannenbaum, and Monami Entertainment. 

He sat down with us to share his story along with tips and tricks into making it in the industry. 
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png"/> 
 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/alancowan.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on? 
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I’m most proud of the specific acting jobs I’ve been involved in. I just had the opportunity to work on some REALLY cool shows/movies with some REALLY cool people. There’s a reason that This Is Us, Westworld, Eastwood – why all those people are successful. They treat people well – no matter how big or small a role they have.
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool? 
We just released a very cool true crime podcast through Imperative Entertainment entitled “American Coyote.” It’s the story of Elden Kidd, a Morman man from Riverside who started running people across the border in the early 1990’s. It’s a wild ride and I’m proud of how it turned out. I am developing another podcast series with Cavalry Media and will be pitching a feature to studios and a couple TV shows sometime in the coming months.
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry? 
Man. Tough question. There’s so much. I wrote an article one time (reposted recently <a href="https://https://thriveglobal.com/stories/10-tips-to-survive-as-a-creative-professional-in-entertainment-and-not-go-crazy-in-the-process/?utm_source=Newsletter_Transaction&utm_medium=Thrive&utm_campaign=Published">here)</a> that was “10 Tips to Survive As A Creative Professional In Entertainment… And Not Go Crazy In the Process.” I think that advice stands up, even though I wrote it a number of years ago. It’s probably the best answers I can give.

That said, if I’ve learned anything since I wrote that, it’s that you have to give yourself your own “yes.” I don’t know that that’s sage advice or wisdom that you can’t hear from any coach/guru out there, but it’s been immeasurably true for me. When I finally decided that I had something to say with my art – and that it was worth saying – and maybe, just maybe, someone else might like/need/want to hear it… that was a game changer for me.

Also, there’s no rules.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021? 
I personally think the industry is regionalizing. My opinion is that Netflix and the rest of the streamers are moving the business away from a traditional LA/NYC model and going to be sourcing MOST jobs (save the top 1-5 on the call sheet) from regional actors, crew, etc. To me, there’s opportunity there. I can’t tell you the number of actors I’ve watched land small rolls as local hires, only to recur, then become guest stars. Next thing you know, they book a pilot – and have a career. You don’t need to be in LA or NY anymore. Build from a region – either through bookings or making your own material – and have LA or NY come to you.

What’s your favorite TV show of 2020? 
I binged three seasons of Yellowstone right at the start of the pandemic. I love Taylor Sheridan and don’t know why I had not watched it before. It’s certainly on brand for me. I also really enjoyed ZeroZeroZero on Amazon, the most recent season of Ozark… I was on the Tiger King train… Cheer… there’s so much good stuff!

Give us your plug! How can we follow you? 

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aecowan10">Instagram</a> 
<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/aecowan10">TikTok</a>

Q&A with HBO & ABC Actor Alvin Cowan 

So you're looking to get started working in voiceover? If you have an outgoing voice and like to express yourself through narration, voiceovers, or character voices in films, commercials, corporate videos, educational and training materials, podcasts, audiobooks, video games and other projects that need a voice — then this business is definitely for you.

It's also an incredible time to start looking into a voiceover career. While the pandemic has put a ton of people out of business, the world is shifting towards remote learning, working, and building. Therefore, this is increasing the need for online video and content that calls for more voiceover artists than ever before.

As you can imagine, voice acting is a rewarding, exciting career. At Casting Depot, we have tons of voiceover talent coming through our site daily booking gigs and growing their careers. Here are a few things to help you get started:

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-left">1. Get setup with audio gear 🎙</h3>
If you're confident that you want to pursue a career in voiceover work, or even as a side hustle, it's smart to invest in audio gear. However, dependent on the type of voiceover actor you want to be, you may require more gear. It depends. If you want mic suggestions, join a Casting Depot community and ask fellow users. They'll point you in the right direction for what they recommend. 

A few things to consider when purchasing a microphone:
* Buy what you can afford.
* Purchase something that you can return, just incase. It's helpful if you can test out the mic in the space that you plan to be recording.
* Don't purchase something handheld. 

Here are a few great mics we'd suggest:
* [Blue Mic: The Yeti Nano](https://www.bluemic.com/en-us/products/yeti-nano/)
* [Kaotica Eyeball](https://www.kaoticaeyeball.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiAgJWABhArEiwAmNVTBxtg9ZKYWse1aR-OK07BXx2o7edqW2ugsRO61EYdXa6eUH1C4GnZSRoC3X8QAvD_BwE)
* [Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone](https://www.adorama.com/atat2020k1.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=organicshopping&utm_source=adl-gbase)

While you may be inclined to use your Airpods, we'd suggest against that! You want to make sure that your producing the best audio possible, and that you're comfotable while recording. So, here are a few headphones we'd suggest:
* [Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Closed-Back Studio and Live Monitoring Headphones](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HD280Pro--sennheiser-hd-280-pro-closed-back-studio-and-live-monitoring-headphones?mrkgadid=3301332377&mrkgcl=28&mrkgen=gpla&mrkgbflag=0&mrkgcat=studio&recording&&acctid=21700000001645388&dskeywordid=92700046938536344&lid=92700046938536344&ds_s_kwgid=58700005285190875&ds_s_inventory_feed_id=97700000007215323&dsproductgroupid=385451424629&product_id=HD280Pro&prodctry=US&prodlang=en&channel=online&storeid=&device=c&network=g&matchtype=&locationid=9030954&creative=280136034160&targetid=aud-994727058445:pla-385451424629&campaignid=1465808290&gclid=CjwKCAiAgJWABhArEiwAmNVTB2GoYfBcNbW3hllvajEF-a5xVFfu5bL39r5Ce5KDFTV7CTAHuk1D2hoCpjwQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)
* [Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohm](https://www.newegg.com/beyerdynamic-dt-770-pro-grey/p/0TF-00D2-00002?item=0TF-00D2-00002&nm_mc=knc-googleadwords&cm_mmc=knc-googleadwords-_-headphones%20and%20accessories-_-beyerdynamic-_-0TF00D200002&source=region#)
* [AKG K 182 Over-Ear Headphones](https://www.akg.com/Headphones/Professional%20Headphones/3103H00030.html?ged=off)

<h3 class="text-left">2. Find a quiet place in your home to be a studio 🏡</h3>
There are many variables that go into creating a voiceover home studio. However, you don't need a fancy-built studio to submit auditions. You can do this on a budget, at home. The space can be a closet, garage, spare room, basement, or attic – as long as it's soundproof and quiet. 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/advice+articles/voiceover.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>

To soundproof your home studio, here are a few things to consider:
* Noise can be a big problem in the home studio. As with any production area, you’ll want to make sure your space is well soundproofed or insulated from noise coming in or out. The main culprits of unwanted noise are air conditioning units, fans and people – especially kids and pets.
* A few blankets hung up can help absorb reverb and unwanted noise coming from breathing and other close-miking techniques.

<h3 class="text-left">3. Find an audio editing software that works for you 🗣</h3>
Most sites will suggest using the fancy editing softwares like ProTools. While you can use products like those, it's possible that you want something extremely easy to use while you're still testing out the waters. Here are a few programs we love:

* [TwistedWave](https://twistedwave.com/online)
* [Adobe Audition](https://www.adobe.com/products/audition.html)

<h3 class="text-left">4. Record practice demos 🚀</h3>
Now that you've got the space and the audio equipment, it's time to record demo examples for your voiceover profile. If you have a range of types of projects you'd want to audition for, it's important to get that type of content up on your Casting Depot profile as a starting point. For example, if you can speak in different languages, accents, or tones, make sure that you have a demo for each! Here are some tips on making great demos:

* Make a demo for each voice/accent/character you plan to audition for.
* Keep your slate quick (full name and anything else that's important to you).
* Make sure the volume isn't obnoxiously loud or quiet.
* Pick the right script for you. 

<h3 class="text-left">5. Start marketing yourself 💡</h3>
Use your Casting Depot profile to build your online presence as a voiceover actor. We built talent profiles to be completely customizable, allowing every user to have their own unique experience in our community. If you're a voiceover actor, you'll most likely want to focus on building out and utilizing the following sections in your profile:

* Age, location
* Personal description
* Audio uploads
* Job history (use this section as your online resume)

Some tips and tricks for building a rockstar voiceover profile that helps you stand out from the rest of the community:

* Avoid celebrity comparisons. 
It's easy to make comparisons between yourself and your favorite celebrity. However, when casting directors are searching talent, they love to see more of what you bring to the talent (and comparing yourself to a celebrity might typecast you into a hole). Describe your sound, instead. Using words such as "warm, authentic, young, firm" and so on will give the casting director better insight into what your voice sounds like.

* Ask Casting Directors for the projects you've worked on. 
Don't be shy to ask for the final work! If they're allowed to, the Casting Directors are usually more than happy to send you the final cut so that you can add it to your virtual portfolio.

* Find an engineer to work with. 
Search post-production audio engineers to help you edit and promote your audio submissions. Think of them as a business partner! It could take a lot of busy work off of your plate if you're booking a significant amount of voiceover work and don't have time to make edits to submissions. If you want to go down this route, ask the Casting Depot community for engineer recommendations.

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

& there you have it! A few quick tips and tricks to getting started as a voiceover artist. If you're ready to start using your voice to build a career, [sign up for Casting Depot here.](https://www.castingdepot.com)

Voiceover Actors: How to Get Started

Dan Cashman is the host, creator, and an Executive Producer of “The Nite Show with Danny Cashman.” The show is a Maine-based late night talk show that is in its 11th consecutive season, and currently airs in all three of Maine’s TV markets including CBS.
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png"/> 
 

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on? 
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I would say The Nite Show is the biggest thing. I put a lot of time and effort into it for a lot of reasons. It’s not easy to produce a show like this in a small market, and thankfully there are a lot of people who help make it successful. Our house band is a six-piece jazz group and they are incredible. We have an announcer/co-host who has talent that is simply off the charts and she is an amazing personality, which absolutely shines on television. Our writers go above and beyond for the monologue in every show, and we have a few people who work behind the scenes to coordinate everything from audience seating (when we’re allowed to have an audience) to desk props. We also work with the New England School of Communications at Husson University in Bangor, and the students, faculty, and staff make the show look and sound amazing. The people involved in that program are second-to-none and so many students have gone on to do great things in the past ten years, and for good reason. It’s heartwarming to see them succeed in school and after graduation.

Beyond this show, my credits are relatively minor. I spent 4 years as the program director and on-air host at a CHR radio station in Bangor. I also owned a radio show for a short time more recently. I worked on a national documentary as a production assistant in the late 90s and was at MSNBC before that as an intern. I have written some material here and there for national productions in an uncredited role, sometimes just passing a joke along, and other times in a more unofficially official capacity. 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/dancashman.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>
My idol David Letterman famously said that he’s always either doing a show or thinking of doing a show. And even though our show is only on once a week, and it’s only seen in one state, I find myself in a similar boat. Any time I have an idea come to mind that I think is funny or creative, my first instinct is to figure out how it might fit into The Nite Show. And that’s really one of the joys of doing this kind of a show is that virtually any idea is at least possible. That allows for so much creative flexibility, as long as it makes sense for the audience and the budget.
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool? 
I’ll refer back to my quote from David Letterman. We just finished our 550th episode of The Nite Show, so we are gearing up for the second half of season 11. We have a fun parody in the works of a game show, adapted for the pandemic we’re all currently facing, and we will surprise our viewers by using the actual host of the show we are parodying in the sketch. He’s never been on the show before, so that’s fun. And we have some guests we’re prepping to see in person once we’re allowed to do so while also reaching out to guests who might join us virtually in the meantime. 

One thing the pandemic has made me do is realize how fortunate we are to do this show, but also to realize that there is more potential. So we are developing some new ideas to pitch both locally and beyond. I wouldn’t say that the pandemic has freed up any time for us, but it’s certainly made us think a little differently. From that perspective, we’re working hard to bring new ideas to the forefront and see where they go. 

So, my answer right now is “yes.” Yes I’m working on something cool...but maybe in a year I can explain what that is.
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry? 
Start wherever you need to start, and build from there. I’m not in Hollywood, New York, or Chicago. I’m not an A-lister, even in Maine. But I’m doing what I love. To get to this point, I started by paying for airtime on a very tiny WB station in Bangor. We built an audience by working our tails off and being creative. Today, we’re still working our tails off, but we’re statewide in Maine, we’re getting guests we never thought we’d have on our show from all walks of life, and we’re doing really well in the ratings. 

I also had to figure out where I wanted to be. I knew early on that I wanted to host a show like this, but I also knew that it didn’t matter if it was a national show. I realized during college that I love my home state of Maine and just wanted to stay here. A show like this hadn’t existed at that point, and local television in general had really scaled back since the 80s. So we just created what we wanted to do. 23 years later, it’s working out pretty well. Bangor has embraced the idea -- we were honored with the Bangor Chambers first ever Arts & Culture Award last year -- and the entire state tunes us in.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021? 
I’m taking three tracks on this one. The first two are quotes, and then my own advice. 

David Letterman (again): “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.” 
Johnny Carson: “If you don’t like what you’re doing, don’t do it.”
Me: Be kind, be flexible, and be yourself.

What’s your favorite TV show of 2020? 
Oy. I like SO much TV right now. If I really had to pick one, it would be Schitt’s Creek. 

If you let me pick two, I think Jimmy Kimmel Live has done some amazing things this year.

Give us your plug! How can we follow you? 

<a href="www.TheNiteShowMaine.com">My website.</a>

Late Night Show Host Dan Cashman About Working in Talk

Everyone loves a good biopic movie. Need a list of solid recommendations instead of endlessly flipping through Netflix or Hulu? Well... you're in luck. We compiled a list of our favorite biopic movies to watch this month meant to help inspire you for the 2021 year.

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Social Network (Netflix) </center>
For anyone who loves Jesse Eisenberg as a braniac, The Social Network is the perfect movie. The story follows the beginning stages of Facebook and the lawsuits that came along with it.
<iframe width="873" height="491" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lB95KLmpLR4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> Safety (Disney+) </center>
We'd describe this as the 2020 version of The Blind Side and Remember the Titans. This one is a tear-jerker. 
<iframe width="873" height="491" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m0j8O2swT5o" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> Jobs (Amazon Prime) </center>
The story about Apple's Steve Jobs and his relationship with being a CEO, father and innovator in the early 90's and 2000's.
<iframe width="873" height="491" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FrvkCS0ZGPU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Founder (Netflix) </center>
Have you ever wondered how McDonald's invented the famous Golden Arch? The Founder follows an ambitious franchisee that takes a failed, small business and leads it to become a real estate company. Yes, you read that right.
<iframe width="873" height="491" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AX2uz2XYkbo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (Hulu) </center>
Creepy, sweet, and heartwarming. The movie follows investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel who receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers, aka Mr. Rogers.
<iframe width="873" height="491" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VLEPhfEN2M" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" a lign="center"/>
 
<center> Bohemian Rhapsody (Hulu) </center>
A movie about Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of Queen, as he become a generational icon defying stereotypes along the way.
<iframe width="783" height="440" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mP0VHJYFOAU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" a lign="center"/>
 
<center> American Sniper (iTunes Store/Amazon Prime) </center>
Bradley Cooper plays U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle who becomes one of the most lethal snipers in American history.
<iframe width="903" height="508" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/99k3u9ay1gs" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<center> Rocketman (Hulu) </center>
Elton John in the 70's as he begins his journey to becoming one of the most iconic figures in pop history.
<iframe width="853" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S3vO8E2e6G0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" a lign="center"/>
 
<center> The Wizard of Lies (HBOMax) </center>
For every MBA student looking to learn about ponzi schemes. Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer. So. Good.
<iframe width="853" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jo_CYCumZgI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" a lign="center"/>
 
<center> Straight Out of Compton (Hulu) </center>
In 1988, the groundbreaking N.W.A revolutionizes music and hip-hop culture. The movie follows their first studio album, "Straight Outta Compton".
<iframe width="903" height="508" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oyoew4T74_w" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" a lign="center"/>
 
If we missed any that you'd recommend, tweet us! Find us on Twitter [here](https://www.twitter.com/castingdepot).

The Best Biopic Movies To Watch This Month

You have a great idea and you’re ready to pursue it. Now what? 

Many aspiring creatives are in a financially tight position and have questions about what steps to take to make their project come to life. If you don’t have millions of dollars laying around to fund your project, where does that leave you? In limbo, yes, until you can find someone else who believes in your project as much as you do. 

Here are a few tips we have for our fellow creators who could use some guidance in building the next big box-office hit:

<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>Friends and family round.
There may not be an individual friend who has the cash to fund an entire film project on their own, but cash collectively from a handful of friends could be enough to fund everything. Once you have your pitch perfected and a sample deck to show, begin to ask around for financing. You’d be surprised by the amount of people who will feed off of your passion and invest. 

Crowdfund.
A lot of indie producers use crowdfunding platforms to create their projects. The trick to becoming successful on sites like these is being as descriptive as possible with your project. You’ll need to show that it’s much more than a ‘big idea’. Before pursuing this process, be constructive of your work. Ask yourself questions like - What makes it different? What does someone receive from investing in the film? 

Partner with a production company.
If it’s your first project, it’s OK to not take on the entire production by yourself. Take it as a learning opportunity and hand it off to a production company that can make it come to life. Because, at the end of the day, the goal should be to bring your work to the big screen. This way when you go to make your second film project, you’ll know the ropes AND have the funds. It’s a win-win. Production companies are always looking for creative individuals to partner with. While there is not a definitive list of who those production companies are, all it takes is a simple online search. Shop around, see what companies match your vision, and pitch until someone says ‘yes’.

Hire friends and give them equity.
You may have friends that are looking for experience and credits to add to their resume. It could be advantageous to use your project as a growth opportunity for your friends who are also aspiring creatives. Be open minded to collaborating with others who want the chance to flex their skills for the first time. You could still create an incredible project, but for a fraction of the cost. 
</li>
</ul>

Rejection can be hard. We know. However raising funds for a project is a great learning experience. It’ll help you learn how to pitch effectively, where to pitch and how to deal with someone saying, ‘no’.

How to Find Funding for Film Projects

Chase Tang is new to the entertainment scene but already a familiar face. He sat down to chat with us to talk about industry lessons and his favorite movies.

What’s your full name and occupation?
 Chase Tang, actor and mental health advocate.
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/chasetang1.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>Tell us about you and your career.
I’m currently living in Toronto and often traveling between Los Angeles and Taiwan. I was born and raised in Taiwan and I’m the youngest of 3 boys in my family, with 2 older brothers. In my youth I was an excellent hockey player and was certain I was destined to play in the NHL. After high school I left Nova Scotia and moved to Ontario and enrolled in post-secondary education at the University of Guelph which I obtained a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Prior to pursuing a career in the entertainment field as an actor I was working in the corporate world. 
 

In May 2016 I took my first ever acting class without a theater background or anything I had to learn everything from the ground up. I struggled for close to 2 years before getting an agent to sign me to their roster. Since 2019 my career has been progressed exponentially, the momentum from being a Netflix actor allowed me to be have other opportunities and open new doors.
 

Tell us about your credits.
My two major TV credits are Slasher and Jupiter’s Legacy, both Netflix Productions. Prior to 2018 I had done a string of short films and had gotten a lot of credits and roles in smaller productions.
 

Did you have to make difficult choices and what are the lessons learned?
Near the end of 2015 I was very unhappy with both my personal and professional life. I was doing okay financially but I felt every day that went by my mental state was getting even worse. I’ve always had a huge interest in film and television so in the Spring of 2016 I left the corporate world for good and took my first ever acting class. I guess for me, it was the moment I realized that I wanted to make decisions not based on what others thought of me but what I wanted to do with my own life. I significantly changed the way I spent money, my time and how I was going to live my life.
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/chasetang3.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>What advice do you have for people looking to break into the industry? 
The opinions of one person no matter how powerful or experienced they are does not define your career. Do your own research and due diligence on everything. What one acting teacher says is terrible, another may say it’s great work. The industry is subjective and very different from person to person. When I first started, I was trying to do everything the “right” way and then I realized I was actually being misled. I was going in circles and wasting not only time but also lots of money. You need to believe in yourself, because a lot of people won’t, especially before you’ve reached any kind of success. When I was first starting out, I’d DM other actors and producers to meet for a coffee because I wanted to learn about them. A large majority of them would turn me down. Now, the very same people who rejected me are reaching out to me. I’ll never forget the genuine people who gave me the time of day before I booked anything major! 
 

Be ready to create your own opportunities! Being an actor means you’ll often meets lots of people at every event you go to. If you’re somebody who feels like you have a lot to offer the world than what is currently being given to you, do something about it! Don’t wait around for others to hand it to you. Don’t take anything personal. Nothing in this business is ever about you, really. If you don’t get cast, it might be because they were looking for someone with a particular voice, height, skin tone, all of which is out of your control.
 

What are your favorite shows/film?
 

Suits, Barbarian, Selling Sunset & Waco.
 


How can we follow your journey?
 Google “Chase Tang,” I’m sure you’ll find something.

Actor Chase Tang Shares Industry Advice

SAG-AFTRA, or The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, is a union that supports film and television actors, radio personalities, voice actors, journalists, recording artists, singers, and other media professionals. 

Once you become eligible to join, you may apply to be part of the union. In order to join, an initiation fee of $3,000 is charged. Along with that, you are charged semi annual dues. Once you become a member, the union is meant to serve you, the actor. Their responsibility is to assist with your retirement fund, negotiate an appropriate salary, and ensure that you have health benefits. 

 So, when is the right time to join SAG-AFTRA? 
<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>
When you become part of the union, you can no longer work for non-union authorized productions. As a result, you will be competing in a job market against other highly skilled actors. 

Before you decide to join, it is important to reassess your acting abilities and your marketability. Make sure that your acting skills are high enough to get casted over other talented actors. If needed, hone in on your craft some more before applying. In addition to this, make sure there is an opening for you in the acting world. What do you offer to it? Do you have a specific brand, and is there room for you in the union job market where you live? Once you decide that you are a perfect fit, make sure that you have the appropriate marketing tools for yourself. 
<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>
Everyone has a different opinion about joining SAG-AFTRA:
<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>
“My opinion on when to join SAG-AFTRA is unpopular, but I stand by it, as I've coached many actors over the years. If your dream is to be a working SAG actor on network and studio projects, and you have a few non-union projects on your resume, then you should join the union as soon as you have the opportunity.” - The Hollywood Success Coach 

“If an actor doesn’t have an agent and is looking for work on their own, than the chances are they will only be able to get themselves auditions for non union work. If an actor/actress has a SAG agent and is being sent out on auditions for SAG productions then they should join SAG. It’s a very exciting opportunity and stepping stone when an actor/actress is eligible to join SAG.” - Goldberg, Scudieri & Lindenberg, P.C. 
<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>
It is ultimately your decision on when and if to join SAG-AFTRA, but considering this article will help you make your choice. 
		
Looking to connect with SAG-AFTRA gigs? Head to www.castingdepot.com/login to get started.

When Should I Join SAG-AFTRA?

Welcome to the monthly list of TV & movie recs, suggested by the Casting Depot team 👋🏻 As you'll see in the list below, we have a range in taste as to what genres and storylines we love. So, I'm sure you'll find something here that peaks your interest. 

Here's what we're streaming in January:
 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 Lacey's List, Co-Founder @ Casting Depot
 

1. The Morning Show (Apple+)
 Jennifer Aniston + Reese Witherspoon + Steve Carrell. The ultimate cast to tell the story of a corrupt media empire and the power of the #MeToo movement. 
<iframe width="669" height="376" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZPYUpfIoM9w" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
2. On the Basis of Sex (Netflix)
 I was (two years) late to the party on watching this, but regardless I'm glad I found it. This RBG biography was both feel-good and empowering.
<iframe width="669" height="376" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/28dHbIR_NB4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
3. The Lie (Amazon Prime)
 I'm a huge Blumhouse fan. It's not a suprise to me that they could take such a simple storyline and make it both entertaining and creepy at the same time.
<iframe width="669" height="376" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i84yWy-Mnts" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
4. Butterfly Kisses (Amazon Prime)
 Probably the best "found-footage" "documentary" since The Blair Witch 2. 
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wBK1zH6XvRc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<h3 class="text-center">& here's what the Casting Depot team is watching:</h3>
 
 Soul (Disney+)
 - Jocelyn, Product Intern @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="850" height="357" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xOsLIiBStEs" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 The Crown (Netflix) - Pick #1
 - David, MBA Biz Dev @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="660" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JWtnJjn6ng0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf (Youtube Movies) - Pick #2
<iframe width="660" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AGI4RwY-frc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 Dead to Me (Netflix)
 - Theo, Junior Engineer @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="660" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BwYBw1raC2o" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 The Queens Gambit (Netflix)
 - Ty, Engineer @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="896" height="504" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CDrieqwSdgI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 The Ballad of Buster (Netflix)
 - Josh, Head of Design @ Casting Depot 
<iframe width="660" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_2PyxzSH1HM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 The Mandalorian - Season 2 (Disney+) - Pick #1
 - Jake, Advisor @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="884" height="497" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eW7Twd85m2g" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
 Kobra Kai - Season 3 (Netflix) - Pick #2
<iframe width="940" height="529" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LcDQqGJG8pA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 Preacher (AMC+)
 - Justin, Engineer @ Casting Depot
<iframe width="884" height="497" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kCt0DiTDX8g" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
 Crazy Delicious (Netflix)
 - Brad, Chief Technology Officer @ Casting Depot 
<iframe width="774" height="435" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oAFgrAe5Gbo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
And that's our list for this month. If you have shows that you're binging that we should watch, tweet us! Find us on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/castingdepot">Twitter.</a>

What We're Watching in January

Susan Johnston is the founder and director of the New Media Film Festival® and an award-winning Casting Director. With years of experience and credits under her belt, she sat down with us to share some insider tips into the casting industry. Here's what we learned:

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/Susan+Johnston.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>
Tell us about you and your career. When & how did you get started? 
 I happened to drive across country to start a career in Los Angeles in 2000, when I arrived, there was a Screen Actors Guild strike, so, I could not work as a union actress. I reached out to friends back East and asked them if they would introduce me to anyone they knew that lived in LA as I was not busy doing auditions, call backs etc.

One dear friend, introduced me to Renita Whitehead, she happened to be a casting director and was originally from back East, so, we had fun, great conversations. When I left our lunch I said to her, whatever you need, anytime, let me know - I'm free because of the strike. At midnight she called me and asked if I could be on set the next morning to help her check in talent on a music video. That led to many casting gigs with her that I am truly grateful for.

 

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on? 
 Casting credits include everything from being a rescue casting director to principal casting on feature length commercial films. (get a call at midnight to book speaking talent for the next morning). Talent do back out at the last minute and directors add roles. Sometimes we have been able to bump background to under five, that has been rewarding.

 

Are you working on anything cool right now? 
 I've recently cast gamers and influencers for a live show, commercials for one of my favorite directors, talent for a reality show and packaging a feature length film based on a best selling book.

 

How do you feel about the casting process? Easy, hard? 
 Union and non-union castings can be quite different. Although we abide by union "rules" for casting, what each project needs can be different. In today's climate, a self tape is usually requested. Or, in the case of reality shows, to videotape them from a video zoom type audition.

 

How did you first navigate it? 
 I learned by doing, I had great mentors.
 

What advice do you have for people about to go on their first audition? 
 This is a great question. I'll give some of the basics.
<div>
1 - Always be courteous.

2 - Focus on your role and not the other people in the waiting room. No conversations with anyone even registration.

3 - Trust the process.

4 - Listen.

5 - If any adjustment is given, do it. Most of the time it means they like you and want to see if you can take direction.

6 - Hold the moment after your scene is finished. Yes, say "scene" and then break character.

7 - As you leave, say "thanks for this opportunity".

8 - ALWAYS look like your headshot.
</div>


What’s the best/worst part about the casting process?
 Best part - finding the absolutely perfect person that IS the role being cast.

Worst - those that do not understand this is a business and although your acting is the show part, the business part means to be professional at all times.
</r>
 

What’s your favorite TV show of 2020? 
 The Crown.
 

How can we follow your work?
 www.susanjohnstoncasting.com

Founder Of The New Media Film Festival, Susan Johnston, Chats Casting

Valonda Calloway has a list of incredible credits. From being a TV host for Fox 50 and hosting the North Carolina Lottery, she also just released a book. Titled, "Tips From The TV Lady: A Guide For Making A Great Impression On Camera And In Person", Valonda shares what she’s learned over her 20 plus years in front of the camera as a news anchor, reporter, host, and spokesperson. Her book provides practical tips for improving how you look and communicate, whether it’s in front of a web camera or in person. She sat down with us to discuss tips & tricks.

In the wake of COVID, interviews are all remote. What advice do you have for people about to go on their first audition or about to be interviewed on camera?
<ul class="indent-list">
	 1.Make eye contact. Be sure to look into the webcam, not the computer screen or a separate monitor you may have connected to your computer. 

[](https://)2.Light yourself properly. Two lights on each side of you, about a foot above your head, is ideal. A ring light with a direct path to your face also works well. 

3.Everyone should wear makeup, including men. Appearing on camera without makeup can cause distractions. Audiences will notice, and may be distracted by, dark circles under the eyes, a shiny forehead, or redness in the cheeks.</li>
</ul> 
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/valondacalloway3.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on?
<ul class="indent-list">
	 1. Beginning November 28th through Christmas I will play Val The Elf on the Santa Stream app.

2.A holiday commercial I shot for Harris Teeter grocery store is airing on TV now. 

3.I’m on TV in commercials now as the spokesperson for University Ford in Durham, NC

4.I acted in a commercial for Aflac insurance over the summer that I shot at my home with the director directing me via Google Meet. 

5.I am the host of Inside Look on Fox 50 in Raleigh, NC which features local businesses. </li>
</ul> 
Are you working on anything cool right now?
 I am promoting my new book Tips From The TV Lady, A Guide For Making A Great Impression On Camera and In Person.

How do you feel about the casting process? Easy, hard? How did you first navigate it? 
 It’s hard. I haven’t been acting very long, only since 2016. I have a lot of experience as a television spokesperson, host and news anchor. I have navigated the transition to acting by leaning into the traits from my television experience that are relevant to acting. These include knowing how to come across as genuine and knowing how to use my facial expressions, vocal tone and body movements to connect with an audience. I’m also a teleprompter reading machine!
 
What’s your favorite TV show of 2020?
 Black-ish (and The Neighborhood)

How can we find you online?
 [Website](https://www.ValondaCalloway.com)
 [IBM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkMuTOAXqPE&feature=emb_logo)
 [Aflac commercial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYgnyASQhNs&feature=emb_logo)
 [University Ford commercial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuhQ62nOvn0&feature=emb_logo)
 [Fox 50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoBfZ_Fx7Ms)

TV Host & Author Valonda Calloway Talks Interview Tips

Eric Schumacher is a critically acclaimed, multi award-winning film, TV and multimedia actor, director and producer. Currently he serves as the president of Seelie Studios, a ground-breaking and award-winning multimedia production company. He sat down with us to chat about his career and casting advice.

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/ericschumacher.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>
Tell us about you and your career. When & how did you get started?
 
My parents are magnificently talented actors and began exposing me to their art of choice pretty much out of the womb. I loved it and begged them to teach me more. I’ve been blessed to have been mentored or taught by some other brilliant and highly skilled pros, some fairly well-known and some not. As a an unabashed nerd, I attended a sci fi convention in my teenage years and was inspired by a lecture given by Nichelle Nichols (Lieutenant Uhura in Star Trek the Original Series) about the influence that Star Trek had socially, and realized that if I learned about the entire production mechanism I might be do good things through filmmaking. I studied film production. I also studied marketing (which is important for an entertainer) while continuing to work and hone my skills as an actor. Eventually, I began crewing in a few different positions, then writing, producing and directing. I also devoted a good deal of time to the study of a very deeply philosophical approach to martial arts and was likewise mentored by some truly amazing people though that study. The self-knowledge and physical skills gained through martial arts study has helped me to be better at everything I do. I kept performing, and making media and kept meeting people, working with them and finding common ground. I guess you could call it networking. I think of it as finding my tribe. I moved to Arizona related to my martial arts studies and formed a couple of companies for specific projects like the streaming series, Zhon: The Alien Interviews. In Arizona, among many other great collaborators, I met Don Dehm, founder of Seelie Studios, when I did a voice over piece for the company. We hit it off and became great friends. When he was battling cancer years later, I had already become a partner in the company, and he asked me to take the mantle.
 

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on?
 I guess you can say that my career has been unusual. I’ve worked in most genres and mediums from live theater to film to voice over, television, radio, internal marketing videos, streaming series, music videos audio dramas and print ads as an actor and/or as a producer or director. I even managed a band for three years. I’m truly grateful for every opportunity and they’ve all been pretty diverse. Some favorite projects that have released include: the early web sitcom Crewing Up, in which I played self-centered Newsman Frank Mann; the sci fi streaming comedy series Zhon: the Alien Interviews which I co-produced and co-starred in; the Revenge of Zoe feature nerd culture comedy film series, which I’ve played a principal role in three of so far, the time slot winning Legends and Lies for Fox TV, in which I played Wyatt Earp, and the newly released mocumentary feature film Tombstone Rashomon in which I played Doc Holliday. Tombstone Rashomon was directed by the legendary (and terrific), Alex Cox (best known for films like Repo Man, Sid and Nancy, Walker, etc.). Another recent release was the short film Bequest by Ric Mel Films which won a ton of awards. I really enjoyed doing guest spots on the branded puppet series The Bob and Angus Show which was produced by Seelie Studios from long before I joined the company for the then large game company Mayfair Games. That series was produced and directed by Don Dehm. I played a Rod Serling like character in three twilight zone spoof episodes on that show.
 

Are you working on anything cool right now?
 I can’t say anything publicly about more than half of the projects we’re working on yet but I’m working on a ton of cool things right now, mostly on the producing and directing side. Due to the pandemic we’re not on sets right now. I can say that we’re in production on several fantastic audio drama projects, in post-production on several streaming projects, in the build phase for an entertainment website and the film bearing the actual name the Revenge of Zoe is releasing in January (#2 in the series I’ve performed in). The Revenge of Zoe includes a bunch of terrific cameos from comic book and sci fi/fantasy creators. We don’t have exact release dates quite yet. We are in negotiations on some other, very exciting projects and in development on others with trusted producing partners in several states in the US and in several different countries. The super funny western streaming sit com Horse Camp, by Patrick Ball Media is in progress. I played the main villain for season one of that series so far. Also, the new film in The Revenge of Zoe film series called The Love Song of William H. Shaw is about 80% shot and on hold due to the pandemic. Reconfiguring what we can do because of the pandemic has been extremely challenging and has caused a lot of delays on things but we’re getting a lot of projects moving.
 

How do you feel about the casting process? Easy, hard? How did you first navigate it?
 
I’ve gone through the casting process frequently as an actor and I’ve run lots of castings from the production end also. There are things I love about it but its often a stressful, tedious process for everyone with occasional moments of elation. For the actor its usually nerve-wracking and often really depressing and for the casting team it requires an unbelievable amount of work and focus. Before remote auditions were a thing, actors had to travel all over the place, skipping out on income generating day jobs or missing other important things to spend potentially hours in traffic to have a 5 minute audition and do that over and over again for each role. You’re always in search mode since the jobs tend to be transitory. You may be on asset and have a deadline to submit a self-tape or can’t get to a live audition. The typical casting to audition ratio is very low, even for those who work pretty regularly. For casting folks, you receive piles of marketing materials and have to sit in a room seeing lots and lots of auditions with the same material. It’s quite a process. Of course, I’ve also met some close friends and colleagues by auditioning for them, gotten some fantastic roles and on the casting side met some wonderful actors who I’ve worked with over and over. Some people who’ve auditioned for me have also become good friends. You’d think the remote audition process would be more pleasant but I have to say as an actor often the requirements put on you for remote auditions just add more stress and decrease the odds of a strong audition. A lot of auditions are well configured and some are not. As an actor you just have to roll with it. I do much prefer the remote audition process when we’re in casting phase, however. We run things in a pretty user-friendly way for the performer and performers usually enjoy the process also.

I have loads of stories from both sides of the table and the screen.

To answer your other question about how I first navigated it is a challenge. I was a kid after all. I guess the easiest answer is that I listened very carefully to the instructions given me, asked my parents who, were pro actors what to expect, prepared fanatically and did my best. Learning how to handle the process emotionally as a kid is quite a thing, but at least you’re use to it by the time you’re performing as an adult.
 

What advice do you have for people about to go on their first audition?
 
Learn as much as you can about the casting process and prepare as much as you’re able to before auditioning. Follow directions carefully and make sure you’ve done whatever you can to provide your support materials (headshot, resume, reel etc.) in a way that paints you in a flattering light but is 100% truthful and makes things easier on the casting folks who have an amazing amount of work. Emotionally, rather than looking at an audition as a job interview for a specific role that you either gain or lose, try to think of it as an opportunity to meet new potential colleagues, demonstrate your skills and unique traits, and an opportunity to perform even for a few minutes and practice working with feedback. Regardless of whether you get the part, you’ll learn a lot about acting through that experiment and you’ll start to learn about the audition process. If it’s a remote audition it’s also practice in performing for a camera. If you do get the part, it's icing. Remember, the people reviewing your audition are artists like you are and they generally want you to succeed. They are just looking for the person who seems right for a specific role considering all the other factors they have to weigh and balance. Always be professional friendly, and grateful for the opportunity. Remember, not everyone is even asked to audition.
 

What’s the best/worst part about the casting process?
 On the acting side, I think the worst part is how much of a grind it can be. When production is up to full speed, you can audition for a lot of roles without landing a single one. It can be really disheartening. Even those who work frequently can have period where you audition and don’t land anything. It’s scary. The best part, however, let’s face it, it’s giving an audition that you know felt fantastic, and you know everyone loved and then getting offered the role. Bonus points if you meet some of your tribe during the audition like I have so many times.

For casting people, the best part is finding that gem, that perfect fit for the role, championing them and being able to offer them the role. The best casting people get pretty emotionally involved in the process and they are very, very good at what they do. While I am part of the casting team for our projects and sometimes run castings, and I sometimes run them for others, professional casting directors, the folks who do that all the time and have made that their career, are usually pretty amazing people who often really care and feel for each actor even if they have to maintain objectivity. I have offered roles to actors and had them burst into tears of joy. That’s an awesome feeling. They get to do that all the time.
 

What’s your favorite TV show of 2020?
 To be quite honest I’m far too busy to watch television right now. A good friend of mine bought me a subscription to a streaming service for my birthday, specifically so I would watch a television show made in Canada nearly 20 years ago and take an occasional break. The show is called Slings and Arrows and it’s about a Canadian theater company that exclusively does Shakespeare. It’s freaking brilliant and right up my alley. Aside from that, anything on television is background filler for me at the moment. I make media and I’m working with remote teams to get things done during a pandemic. I don’t have a lot of time for breaks and I’m not following anything new right now, unless I’m in it or produced it. 
 

Can we follow you online?
 [Seeliestudios.com](https://www.Seeliestudios.com)
 [Ericschumacherfilm.com](https://www.Ericschumacherfilm.com)
 [My showreel](https://youtu.be/KkP9UehRZWo)

Industry