The Actor’s Guide to the End of the World

Welcome to Episode 57, the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast! In the spirit of the holidays, we thought we’d thank all of our incredible guests from this past year with this holiday sampler of the best moments from their interviews. If you want to review or go do a deep dive into the full interview - links are below. E-Kan and Rían will discuss with Oscar-nominated writer Kirsten Sheridan about how she developed her directing process and why her maternal instincts kicks in on a set, as well as what It was like working with a 24-year old Cillian Murphy. Patrick Massett (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Friday Night Lights, and the Blacklist) will talk about taking risks and how it has played such a key role in his career. You’ll see why there’s a photo of Mick Jagger hanging in his living room. Kevin Walsh (Criminal Minds) is a former pro football player and takes the guys into the mind of a pro athlete and why they say athletes make great actors. Timothy Davis (Billions, The Girlfriend Experience) with an in-depth look at how the Actor’s Studio, along with its shortcomings, have shaped him into the actor he is today. Shaan Sharma will break down his game-changing practical approach to building a career and building relationships through being of service. Brandon Finn takes us behind the scenes getting his first series regular opposite Jason Momoa on Apple TV’s Chief of War and what helped him step up to the challenge. Brian Stepanek will share how he became a beloved cult character to 20 and 30-somethings everywhere, despite his agent telling him not to take it. You’ll also hear the most incredible Gene Wilder story.. This is a special one, thanks again for coming along for the ride with us. Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcast, and on all social media. @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Full interview links:  Kirsten Sheridan: https://youtu.be/0Ltd3qxgsQI?si=s2tp8y7x-F3PhdaO Patrick Massett: https://youtu.be/ZxkStpVz8Rk?si=hxmmmRQre6USkkXH Kevin Walsh: https://youtu.be/Qdwqk4WdZGw?si=4zIbXgok3CJQMGj- Timothy Davis: https://youtu.be/RoXxiv0B66o?si=N0kPNchSWr-rr2CE Shaan Sharma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVcU1eMet00 Brandon Finn:  https://youtu.be/ne32qRxy-ks?si=UhNlPQuK3-PH4-Yz Brian Stepanek: https://youtu.be/lUdymwTQMnQ?si=eA5VRlSfNMWc4Di5 Hidden Gems: Mickey O’Sullivan’s in person Acting Classes in Chicago and remote mickeyosullivan.com Gianino’s Pastries (South Jersey) 508 Hurffville CrossKeys Rd, Sewell, NJ   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Kirsten Sheridan on what makes a great director (06:40) What working with Cillian Murphy was really like (08:34) Patrick Massett why he gravitated towards writing (11:40) Studios aren’t taking risks like they used to (12:50) How they got Angelina Jolie to be in Lara Croft Tomb Raider (16:26) Kevin Walsh how storytelling and acting followed him through the years (19:00) Why pro athletes make great actors (22:18) Timothy Davis on the shortcomings of acting programs (26:07) Shaan Sharma how there’s room for success for everyone (28:12) The old school mentality of the union is a problem (29:00) The power of focusing your goals as an actor (33:15) Brandon Finn landing his series regular role opposite Jason Momoa (38:03) Brian Stepanek on the role he is most known for (39:59) The best Gene Wilder story    

Welcome to the Actors’ Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 56! It’s that time of year again - it's awards season and time to watch great films, as E-Kan calls it, checking in on the creative diet and staying fit. E-Kan also drops some wisdom picked up watching Guillermo del Toro, Oscar Isaac, and Jacob Elordi speak at a Frankenstein screening and how del Toro’s gems changed his mind on the mystique of the film director and what makes great directors. Also Jacob Elordi has some unhinged advice for actors that goes viral, which E-Kan loved - and many actors didn’t. E-Kan and Rían discuss Elordi’s “bloody” acting tip, what makes acting advice helpful, and how it can be dangerous for younger actors. E-Kan and Rían do their inaugural “Greatest Movies Never Seen” segment and in honor of Tom Cruise receiving an honorary Oscar this week, they take it back to 1983 and watched “Risky Business” for the first time. For those wondering why we chose “Risky Business”, it’s one of the few “Tom Cruise” movies we have not seen.  Aside from some dated aspects of the film (like the premise of running a brothel out of your family’s home), they break down why it stands out amongst the cookie-cutter coming-of-age films we see today and how fascinating it is to see a 20-year old Tom Cruise bust onto the scene, right when his career was sky rocketing. They discuss some great secrets from behind the scenes, like the crazy diet Cruise got on to give him that adorable baby fat. E-Kan also shares what it was like watching Cruise and Rebecca DeMornay’s screen test (link below) and even saw them do a little Lesly Kahn acting trick in the test (Actors, you’re going to want to steal this). And you’ll hear who received their newly created “Clint Howard” Award, named after Ron Howard’s beloved and lesser famous brother … you’ll want to hear the explanation. This is a fun one, everyone. Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, new episodes every Monday! Video on YouTube and Substack LINKS:  Sophie blog The Final Scene Substack - https://www.thatfinalscene.com/ Jacob Elordi audition advice- https://youtube.com/shorts/pgS6KyL1LVk?si=SypqPpO4WEBQ8x8P Frankenstein Screening conversation with Del Toro, Isaac, and Elordi- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5sQhzju0RA “Tom Cruise” speech https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWZKuueumJE “Risky Business” screen test -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok47XuYDEKk   Clint Howard MTV awards sketch - https://www.instagram.com/reel/C98Kfetv7P4/?hl=en Hidden gems Glucosamine Lotion for joint pain - https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Glucosamine-Arnica-Liposome-8-Ounce/dp/B001B7I2YW/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1O1O25TYJ4HAJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kUCD113KdLOqdNU-Rn71q0MXAHToiVNBje_4oBzVpf0byMgf0EbNPahQ16XXa5yxibG7wstok9c3Chh5k9o9Im0Bq4WbzMj4dNOEU3X8cqjXIvBPp5_Xo8caHj7YRFjiYXCO0cEHEmL4eZpAtPpIse2u1wq1VdIZbzsxJO6g4jlF7Lc1GpA09e4Jrv7EszLInYWfVxHmT7ltivCCU8kfKmhj9ijlnj_RO5trk4hYMxsbQupVdMHu9N7rdDJON2Y97JZ5iqQD06uAJBRDmAhCF9pRBvsjMWyRQPUg2gDcrUU.iVuU4GjsP0f5YgHtA-du5q27tkOiXypoZgKuBooZHVA&dib_tag=se&keywords=glucosamine%2Blotion%2Bmsm&qid=1764047151&sprefix=glucosamine%2Blotion%2Bms%2Caps%2C397&sr=8-6&th=1 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/raisin-water   Time Stamps: (0:00) Intro (2:42) Feeding the creative diet watching good movies (5:20) Frankenstein with Guillermo del Toro, Oscar Isaac, and Jacob Elordi (07:20) Guillermo del Toro says “they’re playing football” (12:30) Jacob Elordi’s crazy audition advice (16:44) The danger with acting advice (23:00) “Risky Business” and Greatest Movies Never Seen (33:00) How Tom Cruise is the ultimate Every Man (35:50) Does Risky Business hold up?  (38:20) Watching the Risky Business screen test (45:22) The “Clint Howard” Award

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 55! The week we're pulling back the curtain on the maybe not-so-quiet retreat. The numbers are in for 2025, and they're brutal in terms of women directors, and in some ways, non-white directors over all. E-Kan and Rían break down to what might be driving that, and what that means for us performers and creators moving forward and some bright spots.  Michael Caine announced he will be licensing his voice to an AI-startup backed up by Matthew McConaughey while Morgan Freeman fires shots, saying his lawyers are busy hunting all those out there stealing his voice without his consent. Welcome to the Wild, Wild, West, and the guys try to make sense of it. Also, we talk more about Abba, as you know we love here at the podcast.  There are some bright spots, including Paramount and Disney commit to putting in more money aimed towards content, and the one thing we know-if you want it, you have to go out there and make it.  Follow us @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, and on all social media, including TIkTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Substack.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Gene Wilder story TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8DoMtej/ https://www.ign.com/articles/michael-caine-says-licensing-his-voice-to-matthew-mcconaughey-backed-ai-audio-company-is-using-innovation-not-to-replace-humanity-but-to-celebrate-it https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2025/10/01/abba-voyage-ticket-sales-revenue-2024/ https://theankler.com/p/female-directors-and-hollywoods-grim https://theankler.com/p/hollywoods-backslide-into-white-male https://finance.yahoo.com/news/paramount-plans-price-increase-1-095028265.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAL-kpmkYFLUqK_wWZM9Ynkn0Kdk7rYTqVusPhPQ5u5TYinbShkDVVavLpugzh6Lgzpb8NdbE1iEmN1_XVKROop_1e9NUlqty01zULXk2ldKrNVEKuIXx3PeLAOp9kOa3xvTCho0pTkFcv5BLQ3vk9jHqB_BLaXlJnJFMOVr8Kar0 https://wdwnt.com/2025/11/disney-increasing-content-spending-1-billion/ https://deadline.com/2025/11/nearly-half-lgbtq-tv-characters-canceled-glaad-1236608720/ https://deadline.com/2024/11/afm-film-sellers-tell-ifta-they-wont-return-las-vegas-2025-will-set-up-own-market-1236177365/   Chad Sanders “Black Art Bubble” https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP6hJ-KDZQt/?igsh=MWJsbXBrODV2N21tcw== Paramount racial layoff? - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQclLZ9Eo6-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Hidden Gems:  Turn off "Access When Locked" on Iphone - "General", "Face ID & Passcode", Allow Access When Locked- Turn Off Control Center Petit Salons Monday Screening Nights at Petit Ermitage Hotel Time Stamps:  (0:00) Intro (3:00) Great CD Patrick Rush appearance at Lesly Kahn (6:25) Michael Caine licenses his voice at AI startup (11:45) AI chatbots are causing psychosis (17:33) Abba's virtual show sells a million tickets (24:40) Hollywood migration to Nevada and AFM  (29:20) Women filmmakers drastically down in 2025 (31:20) How scared is Hollywood?  (36:50) Paramount and Disney commit billions of dollars to new content (39:10) If you believe in it, make it  (40:53) The genius of Chad Sanders and the black art bubble (45:27) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 54! This week E-Kan and Rían discuss the Martin Luther King, Jr. - Open AI controversy and the scramble to remove inappropriate Martin Luther King, Jr. Deep Fake videos. (*Disclaimer: there was a mishap with E-Kan's audio for this episode. Major apologies and it was a fluke, we promise.) Also Hollywood’s elite agencies like CAA and UTA have made statements calling out Open AI, opting their clients out. The guys will break down what you need to know to protect yourself, what states have AI protections, and why CAA already has a vault of digital replicas of its clients. E-Kan also brings up an interesting study about how seeing unauthorized likenesses of yourself can feel like actual physical pain. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom - they dive into their creative inspirations and favorite musicians, Mac Miller, David Bowie, and the shocking revelation that E-Kan knows nothing about the Beatles. And you’ll hear his crazy hot take on the piano vs the guitar. A timely blend of AI anxiety and personal revelation you didn’t know you needed. Follow us @actorsguidepodcast on all social media and wherever you find your podcasts. Video on YouTube and Substack! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly    https://variety.com/2025/film/news/caa-openai-sora-2-harmful-intellectual-property-1236543954/ https://variety.com/2024/digital/news/caa-vault-talent-ai-clones-veritone-1236001187/ https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/friendships-social-media-posting-consent-viral-law-b2798907.html   Hidden Gems:  Line Learner App  The Almanack of Naval Ravikant https://www.navalmanack.com/ Time Stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:48) The first time E-Kan was on stage (5:35) Sora 2 has a Martin Luther King Jr problem (09:00) The states that have AI protections (12:00) Tilly Norwood creator has 40 more AI Synthetics to be released  (13:05) How do you protect yourself if you're deep faked (14:50) Technology is everything that doesn't work yet (19:00) Who's older - The Beatles or Abba? (22:55) E-Kan's hot take on the piano vs the guitar (25:00) E-Kan's limited music tastes and obsession over Mac Miller (32:50) How Labyrinth and David Bowie blew Rían's mind (37:10) A surprising study when you see unauthorized photos of yourself (39:30) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast where we talk about acting and Hollywood in a way people understand. Today is good one, guaranteed to lift your spirits or all your money back.  Ireland recently announced that the will offer a Basic Income for artists, previously a pilot program for three years, but now PERMANENT moving forward into 2026. MIND BLOWN.       E-Kan's ready to move there, who's with him? The guys discuss what this means for other countries and how big this really is.  E-Kan also has a recent revelation watching theater in NYC, including Hamilton TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW, which he might call life-changing. They break down what they think the differences between acting for Film/TV vs on the stage and some differing opinions.  Rían will recap how uber-successful TV director David Nutter's (Game of Thrones, Sopranos, The West Wing) showcase went. David Nutter recently made a very special visit to Lesly Kahn Studios to speak to the actors this month and brought a group of Norwegian actors to Los Angeles for a live showcase. The guys also talk about the kind of perseverance they have gained in their years in LA which prompts a Chinese proverb from E-Kan... Stick around to the end, every episode the guys share hidden gems - recommendations we’ve picked up on the way to say thanks for listening. E-Kan's Gem is courtesy of a little tip from Lesly Kahn, and is something all actors should be adding to their routine, more important now than ever.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Leave us a review and rating if you enjoy it!  https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/ireland-basic-income-artists-program-permanent-1234756981/ Hidden Gems:  Hamilton Cheap Tickets (Standing Room Only) Actor Wellness Tip https://www.amazon.com/Australian-Bush-Flower-Essences-Clearing/dp/B00757UBVY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ACSWS96AJ4YL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TRBWbWEZBSMdtGPPMrTCGEHfB4o-ajfw7MmuiyMQrXO2gmV2AGSXzrpCAQ-Oyt1PUtV0JBciNJqQ1og8mDxpAgKpa8jrIuPtjz6RwD_3Tx67MxR5TxJR721A8cVVFNbijvj7JC3HoYPQxw8N7QbGlf8LqRE4t_rBvyNqSsGW3GGxg37rW9dZNjEBSWXXKOiLZ1nzAi5xzucTtMkt1jW30Q.cdotDyWBiuHMEitW_CDRUTS7LkeKv4KGrqracOgYmz0&dib_tag=se&keywords=australian+bush+flower+essence+clearing&qid=1762286448&sprefix=australian+bush+flower+essenceclearing%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1 Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:35) David Nutter brought Norwegians to LA (7:42) Is the Golden Age of LA over?  (14:20) The greatest Chinese proverb ever (20:30) E-Kan falls in love with theater  (23:20) E-Kan watches Hamilton TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW (25:20) Do actors have more power on the stage than in TV/Film? (33:20) Ireland offers Basic Income to Artists permanently? (44:35) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 52! We get back to the ongoings in the industry, and it’s a lot of bad (surprise), but there’s some good too. Casting Networks, the casting site that most actors need to subscribe to, announced major changes about charging fees to agents and managers. (Video attached below.) E-Kan and Rían talk about the repercussions and what actors need to know, as well as speculation of AI entering the casting industry which brings up the question - would AI replace casting directors, and what would that look like… But some great news as well- California has huge push for projects coming into the state, including Heat 2, a Daniels film, and a Jumanji movie. Also, Rían’s Rainmaker just got picked up for another season! The guys also share lessons learned from recent guest Brian Stepanek and hugely successful director David Nutter who recently spoke at Lesly Kahn Studios. Some real dimes in this one, you’ll want to hear this. We also have another Reddit Rundown, where we go into the hottest topics on the actor subreddit, and an actor sent cold emails to top 60 agencies ranked on IMDB, and the results might surprise you. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly  HIDDEN GEMS: NY Ferry - https://www.ferry.nyc/ https://tubitv.com/movies/100047053/glamping Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:10) Brian Stepanek afterparty  (6:11) David Nutter hugely successful director talks about his process (16:35 ) Where the younger generation will learn (18:12) Casting Networks announces changes that might devastate actors (28:00) Will AI replace casting directors?  (36:00) Big projects coming to LA and California (37:20) Reddit Rundown- An actor sent cold email to top 60 agencies      

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 51! Award-winning actor-director-teacher Brian Stepanek (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, Transformers, and many others) joins E-Kan and Rían to share his incredible journey successfully transcending every genre from musical theater to one hour drama, to Michael Bay movies, commercials and voice over to directing for TV, guest teacher at Lesly Kahn Studios, and now podcasting (Here from There with Brian Stepanek) as well This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and incredible advice for actors. You’ll hear how his childhood in Cleveland and visiting Second City in Chicago drove him to comedy and musical theater, performing a one man musical through the coldest winter in Chicago history, to the breakout role that would make him a fan favorite among children and young adults everywhere - and how his agents told him not to take it. Brian shares advice he got from his father that he took to heart and contributed to his massive success, how he became the face of a phonebook company, how he struck up a long time collaboration with directors like Michael Bay, what he learned working with comedy legends like Jim Carrey, Garry Shandling, and Carl Reiner - and a very special moment with Gene Wilder. You’ll also hear why he wants to give everyone that moves to Los Angeles to act a big hug. Enjoy this episode with Brian Stepanek.   Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! Follow Brian Stepanek @brianstepanek Brian’s Podcast “Here from There w/ Brian Stepanek” - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-from-there-with-brian-stepanek/id1802290098 Brian’s IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0826745/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_brian%2520stepanek @ekansoong @riansheehykelly  HIDDEN GEMS: Tools of Titans- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36146011-tools-of-titans Brian’s Podcast “Here from There w/ Brian Stepanek” - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-from-there-with-brian-stepanek/id1802290098 Parkinson's Law Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/627206.The_New_Drawing_on_the_Right_Side_of_the_Brain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_20     Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:25) How it all started in Cleveland (5:40) Doing a one man musical during Chicago in the winter (8:46 ) How “Suite Life of Zack and Cody” changed his life (12:10) Incredible advice from his father (15:10) The rough welcome to Los Angeles (17:50) He wants to give everyone who moves to Los Angeles a hug (19:20) The role that his agents told him to pass on (23:00) He wasn’t what they were looking for and booked it anyway (26:40) Kids go crazy when they see him (31:10) Doing voices for Jim Carrey (33:00) Meeting Gene Wilder (37:50) What he learned from the comedy greats (40:55) Brian’s favorite story of facing fear (44:45) Working with Michael Bay (55:28) Why he went to Lesly Kahn Studios (1:03:00) How to direct for TV (1:12:20) Embracing Impostor Syndrom (1:18:20) The honest truth about social media as an actor (1:27:00) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, this is Episode 50! We have decided to look back on the past 50 episodes and talk about what the experience was like,  what was our favorite parts as well as the biggest surprises. The conversation ranges widely from takes that we thought we got right, and some that were wrong, and how the podcast changed our mind on certain things. This is a wide-ranging conversation, and have you ever heard of the Soderbergh - three shot rule?... This is a special one, thanks to everyone for the support and sharing the journey with us. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Soderbergh 3 shot rule- https://www.andsoitbeginsfilms.com/2018/04/breaking-down-steven-soderberghs-three.html   HIDDEN GEMS: Diary of a CEO with Vanessa Van Edwards Body Language Expert- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHUrdELKjDw John Donahue “Benedictus” -   https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1056526.Benedictus Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) Our take on AI (7:40) The Gen-Z Stare (10:50) Biggest surprise of the podcast (18:15) On setting goals as an actor (21:30) Rían’s clips from his life plays in his head (28:00) Watching self tapes for 4 seconds (33:25) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 49! Special treat, friend Brandon Finn (Chief of War) joins E-Kan and Rían and shares the whirlwind the past few months has been. Brandon Finn plays Prince Kupule on Apple TV's "Chief of War" co-created by and starring Jason Momoa, Cliff Curtis, and premiered August 1 to rave reviews.  The show depicts the rarely told incredible history of Hawaii, how the rival kingdoms fought and eventually united.  Brandon also shares how much it actually is like Game of Thrones and what it means for the legacy of the state, native people, and the Hawaiian language.  Brandon also opens up about the roller coaster ride that is his acting journey - working as a flight attendant on Hawaiian Airlines, embracing self tapes, getting cut from movies, and eventually his first series regular role. As if that wasn’t enough, Finn also gained twenty pounds to play Prince Kupule and learned Olelo, the Hawaiian language.  Rían also finds similarities to Hawaii's story in Ireland's history.  Insightful, engaging, and most of all inspiring - this conversation was a blast! Watch "The Chief of War" on Apple TV, streaming now.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! Brandon Finn - @thebrandonfinn Manager: Brehan Fitzgerald @brioent @ekansoong @riansheehykelly    HIDDEN GEMS: The Last Movie Stars - https://www.hbomax.com/shows/last-movie-stars/c326a2f4-8c29-4707-9477-7a8961c9bceb Spotify Playlist -  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0VagaLEnB7nyD82hGELj0p?si=_OTmyAffRhmgzTjqGg3vww https://open.spotify.com/show/4S4IHMb9UiRAWOIu6xM3JF?si=MCDYLH88RmSg_XfPbm_FHQ Deepstash App (micro-learning) - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/deepstash-smarter-every-day/id1445023295   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) When Brandon Finn fell In love with the arts (8:00) Working on Hawaiian Airlines as a flight attendant (10:05 ) Auditioning for “Chief of War” (11:56) The scene Brandon doesn’t want you to watch (13:00) The time he got cut from the film (15:45) Changing his mindset on self-tapes (21:30) What he learned from Zoom callbacks (26:00) He was supposed to be a different role in “Chief of War” (32:30) The similarities between Ireland history and Hawaiian history (34:00) They tried to erase Hawaii’s language and history (36:30) The story of Hawaii is just like Game of Thrones (42:25) Learning the language for the role (45:00) Preparing for the physicality for the role (46:40) What life was like shooting in Hawaii and New Zealand (48:39) Jason Momoa is a bad ass (01:00:00) The biggest realization on set (01:05:00) How has his life changed (01:16:45) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 48! And what a week it was… we cannot NOT talk about AI this week, as a new starlet has come on to the scene. Welcome Tilly Norwood, a completely AI generated “actress” if you can call her that. Talent agents are lining up at her door, and E-Kan and Rían have thoughts… And where is the union on this matter? Contract strike 2023 vibes, right? On the flip side, Lionsgate comes out and admits that their venture with AI startup Runway has bombed, and apparently making great film and tv is still really hard. And Disney as well tried to deep-fake Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for the “Moana” live action, and that did not go well either. Good times, ya’ll.   Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media!   @ekansoong @riansheehykelly   https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eline-van-der-velden-2ab8285a_aiinfilm-futureofentertainment-syntheticactors-activity-7359693830360612865-kAfM/?utm_medium=ios_app&rcm=ACoAAAmmHVABGF2dc2G4Te6otRpC587bI-IkRi4&utm_source=social_share_video_v2&utm_campaign=share_via https://deadline.com/2025/09/talent-agent-ai-actress-tilly-norwood-studios-1236557889/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DPHjndVkgxI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link https://petapixel.com/2025/09/23/movie-studio-lionsgate-is-struggling-to-make-ai-generated-films-with-runway/   HIDDEN GEMS: Bilt Credit Card (get rewards for paying rent) Carbon Food Track App   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:23) Meet Tilly Norwood, AI "Actor" (4:00) Who created Tilly (9:00) Are people going to watch this?  (14:30) The spectacle is dying (22:25) Actors are humans (26:05) Lionsgate AI experiment bombs (29:30) Disney tried to deep-fake the Rock (31:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 47! Apologies for the upload issue on last week's episode, it has been resolved and E-Kan and Rían are here with the big Emmy's recap- the big surprises, heartfelt underdog wins, and what was up with that Nate Bargatze bit? You also will hear how it was for E-Kan sleeping in Central Park last week, and is he the Bear Grylls of the theater world?  E-Kan and Rían also discuss what's so captivating about the one hour drama and what our experiences were working on some iconic ones like NCIS and Chicago Fire. One was Rían's first job on US television, and E-Kan's... well, you'll just have to hear what happened when he had to speak Chinese in his callback.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.  @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly Opening Sketch Emmys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pajwxwDLfao Nate Bargatze Opening Monologue Emmys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d99zMO03yBs Hidden Gems: Letters to a Young Writer by Colum McCann - https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Young-Writer-Practical-Philosophical/dp/0399590803 @coconutcult - Yogurt, available in grocery stores Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:05) E-Kan is the Bear Grylls of the theater world (8:20) Rían vs the squirrels (10:10) Nate Bargatze on the Emmy's (17:00) Why Rían can't watch the Pitt (22:30) E-Kan's auditioned for NCIS thirty five times  (27:00) When Rían booked Chicago Fire his first US tv job (40:00) Could they handle success well at a young age?  (49:30) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 46! E-Kan and Rían get back to some of the happenings around town after back to back interview episodes. FYI this was recorded BEFORE the Emmy's, we will do our recap of the Emmy's next week. The Actors Access Terms of Use has been causing many actors drama confusion the last month.   E-Kan breaks down what actors need to know and why he feels a relief about what went down... for now.  The HBO Max hit "The Pitt" productions assistants have officially unionized.  Is that a good thing? E-Kan and Rían discuss it's implications and what it might mean for the industry. They also share some highlights and takeaways from recent guests Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma and reflect on how much an actor should focus on one thing in their career and how to find more clarity.  You also will hear what E-Kan is up to, and what has him sleeping in Central Park this week.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.. @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly https://iatse.net/marvel-studios-vfx-workers-unanimously-vote-to-unionize-with-iatse-marking-historic-first/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/the-pitt-union-election-pas-vote-unionize-1236362437/   Hidden Gems: Papi Taco's and Churros - @papitacoschurros Creatine (Please do your research) Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:46) E-Kan's adventure in NYC (7:07) Actors Access Drama  (12:40) Transparency in SAG-AFTRA (15:25) The Pitt Productions Assistants unionize (21:09) The After Party for Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma (28:20) E-Kan just wanted to eat (36:15) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 46! E-Kan and Rían get back to some of the happenings around town after back to back interview episodes. FYI this was recorded BEFORE the Emmy's, we will do our recap of the Emmy's next week. The Actors Access Terms of Use has been causing many actors drama confusion the last month.   E-Kan breaks down what actors need to know and why he feels a relief about what went down... for now.  The HBO Max hit "The Pitt" productions assistants have officially unionized.  Is that a good thing? E-Kan and Rían discuss it's implications and what it might mean for the industry. They also share some highlights and takeaways from recent guests Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma and reflect on how much an actor should focus on one thing in their career and how to find more clarity.  You also will hear what E-Kan is up to, and what has him sleeping in Central Park this week.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.. @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly https://iatse.net/marvel-studios-vfx-workers-unanimously-vote-to-unionize-with-iatse-marking-historic-first/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/the-pitt-union-election-pas-vote-unionize-1236362437/   Hidden Gems: Papi Taco's and Churros - @papitacoschurros Creatine (Please do your research) Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:46) E-Kan's adventure in NYC (7:07) Actors Access Drama  (12:40) Transparency in SAG-AFTRA (15:25) The Pitt Productions Assistants unionize (21:09) The Afterparty for Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma (28:20) E-Kan just wanted to eat (36:15) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 45! This is a monster episode, so get ready because class is in session.  This week, Actor, union leader, educator Shaan Sharma wrapped Season 6 of the worldwide hit "The Chosen" where he plays "Shmuel" and is currently running for re-election for Los Angeles SAG-Aftra Board right now (ballots are due this week!). It's a miracle he had time to join the show this week.  You probably know Shaan's record of service for the union, programs he founded, or classes he taught, but you'll hear how his journey in the arts started and how he went from being the skinny Indian kid that was picked on to starring in musicals and playing in bands, and eventually making his way to Los Angeles where he helped transform the local acting community and Los Angeles branch of the union. (List of some programs Shaan has founded below.) Shaan shares how he got an edge early in his career by soaking up information wherever he could, primarily working for casting directors and eventually became one of the top session directors in the city. With that knowledge, he has taught actors throughout the city at the SAG Conservatory and his own studio.  He also discusses why many drama schools fail to prepare their students on how to work on camera for film and tv and what he teaches to his acting students.  Through diligence, resourcefulness, and providing value for others, Shaan became an indispensable asset which eventually got the attention of the union. He gives E-Kan and Rían a brief and turbulent history lesson of the union, and breaks down what are the union's biggest obstacles, and what he hopes for the union in the future.  Shaan also talks about what it was like being on the Negotiating Committee during the Strike, being the only leader who said NO to the contract, and the fallout that happened afterwards. Was there a huge opportunity for the actors missed? There are many lessons learned here, and keep in mind, the contract will be up for renegotiation next year...  And last but not least, they talk about how Shaan's hit The Table Read Podcast came about, how they just won a Webby, and how it may have manifested his goal of becoming a series regular.  There's so much covered in this episode and so many hidden gems-  this is a must listen for actors.  (Shaan has founded The Storytellers Conservatory, an on-camera acting studio, Adjunct Professor for PACE University's School of Drama, and Solidarity, a grassroots SAG-AFTRA education group.) New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.  @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly Shaan Sharma @shaan_sharma   SAG Conservatory - https://www.sagaftra.org/los-angeles/local-programs/los-angeles-conservatory Solidarity Meeting Zoom - SolidarityMeeting.com Table Read Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/table-read/id1673590083 Watch “The Chosen” - https://www.thechosen.tv/en-us Shaan's book - "Commercial Acting in LA: A Session Director's Guide" - PDF - http://bit.ly/1I2tpSM   Hidden Gems: Diary of CEO w/ Mr. Beast - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjrJ2DJN_pA Mark Rober's "Mario Effect" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vJRopau0g0&t=2s Jordan Peterson video “How to Gain Self-Respect” - https://youtu.be/I5y19Vapk1A Bread Head - @breadheadla Delmonico's Steak - https://www.theoriginaldelmonicos.com/   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:51) You can disagree with people you like (05:10) How arts saved Shaan as a kid (13:10) Being one of the top session directors in the city (15:25) The power of the Union (18:15) Having a savvy business mind (21:44) How to be indispensable (29:30) The cup of success never runs out (35:35) How Shaan eventually got involved in the Union (37:00) You need to have a goal as an actor (39:00) How did the Table Read Podcast happen (54:30) Table Read tips (58:50) How the union works (01:03:35) What we can learn from Mr. Beast (01:05:02) A history lesson of the Union (01:18:20) The fallout after the strike (01:26:30) The Chosen and how it’s changed his life (01:34:55) Shaan’s biggest struggles (01:40:05) Hidden Gems          

(Apologies- this file was accidentally  replaced by Episode 46. Sorry for the inconvenience, we are trying to repair it ASAP.) Welcome to Episode 44 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! A good friend of the podcast, actor/playwright/teacher/Brazilian JiuJitsu badass Timothy Davis, joins the show this week and it was a blast.  Tim talks about growing up in the midwest and going from jock and journalism major to studying theater at one of the most prestigious drama schools in history, the Actor's Studio (DeNiro, Hoffman, Ellen Burstyn, Paul Newman, Marlon Brando to name a few students).  Tim shares what he learned, a brief history of method acting and its misconceptions, why he feels some drama schools fail to prepare their actors for the professional world and how much he appreciates his time at studying at Lesly Kahn Studios where he is also teaches.  Tim takes the guys on a real ride this week with stories of victories, hard lessons, missed opportunities, and even being homeless for a period of time. Tim, also a Jiu Jitsu blackbelt and teacher gives an incredible and poignant description of all the benefits of Jiu Jitsu and why it complements acting so well. You'll also hear the most heart-wrenching first day on the set of Billions ever, shooting an indie film with Steven Soderbergh, and the time he was asked to be James Gandolfini’s assistant.  Also keep an eye out for Tim's Distress Signals Project launching in October in Los Angeles - a theater experience aimed to raise funds and create awareness and discussion for communities in need.  Through the highs and the lows, this is a gritty story of a working actor.  Enjoy, everyone!  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG Timothy Davis- @itstimothydavis (IG, Bluesky)  Distress Signals Project live in Los Angeles @distresssignalsproject Tickets available here - Oct 3-5, 11, 12, 2025 - https://shorturl.at/f09JU Hidden Gems: Brazilian JiuJitsu,  Subconscious JiuJitsu in North Hollywood - https://www.subconsciousbjj.com/ Electrolytes for hydration Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:25) Growing up in Iowa and how Tim knew acting was for him (12:25) Getting in to the Actor’s Studio (16:30) The shortcomings of Drama School (33:30) The problem of the “starving artist” lifestyle (37:30) Being a “shadow artist” (39:50) No one taught Tim how to read a TV script (42:00) Getting drunk on a Soderbergh movie (47:40) Working on the pilot of “Billions” and the worst first day ever (58:00) Launching theater philanthropic project Distress Signals Project in Los Angeles (1:03:50) Saying “no” to James Gandolfini (1:06:00) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 43 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! Marvel drops the bomb it’s no longer doing business in Georgia and hopping over the pond to the UK. Has this been happening for years? E-Kan and Rían will get into that and discuss why they think UK has been bustling with film production. They also get into the nitty gritty, break down the differences between what an actor makes in SAG-Aftra in the US vs in the UK, and why E-Kan thinks the race to the bottom isn't sustainable.  On a bit of a lighter note, E-Kan also brings up a revealing article that might spell good news for LA and the Hollywood industry.  Stay to the end and you'll hear, did E-Kan really have an extra tooth?  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG Marvel Leaves Georgia - https://nypost.com/2025/08/18/business/marvel-leaves-georgia-to-film-in-uk-gutting-states-movie-industry/ The productions numbers LA vs NYC vs Georgia - https://www.instagram.com/p/DMdFbz4O1WM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Hidden Gems: @industryjazzcafe - https://industry-cafe-jazz.res-menu.com/menu Wilson US Open Scavenger Hunt - @wilsontennis Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) Marvel Has Left Georgia for the UK (8:15) The current number of productions LA vs NYC vs Atlanta (11:55) How it's like predicting stocks (17:50) How much does an actor make in the UK (28:15) Who's to blame?  (39:55) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 42 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This episode is one for the film lovers - mostly. Tarantino has a gripe about the current state of film, calling it "repressive" while Richard Linklater has a word of caution for young filmmakers. On the brighter side, the NY Times released their Top 100 Films of the 21st Century and E-Kan and Rían break it down - what they got right and what they think they missed - and why they appreciate these films more now than ever. Meanwhile Amazon invests in a startup that has launched a streaming platform of AI generated content called "Showrunner". It will allow users to create their own animated tv shows in hopes of becoming the "Netflix of AI". Will it work? Is it more AI slop? E-Kan said it was going to be a fun episode but couldn't help himself.  The guys get into a discussion about the art of acting and film today - with the rise of social media and influencers, is acting going to become more and more niche, like say opera and ballet? This one gets wild.  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG   "Netflix of AI" - https://variety.com/2025/digital/news/netflix-of-ai-amazon-invests-fable-showrunner-launch-1236471989/ NYT Top 100 List- https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/movies/best-movies-21st-century.html Richard Linklater on young filmmakers - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DL03De2S56-/?igsh=Mzc3ZTVlOWMwZA== Tarantino on the "repressive era" of film- https://www.instagram.com/p/DM_0XwATpuU/ Hidden Gems: Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon - https://www.pushkin.fm/audiobooks/miracle-and-wonder-conversations-with-paul-simon Sundance Collab - https://collab.sundance.org/ Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:08) Amazon invests in the "Netflix of AI" (8:10) Richard Linklater's warning for young filmmakers (10:30) Is acting for tv/film going to go out of date?  (13:20) Why do people want to be famous?  (14:15) Live events are booming  (25:27) Tarantino calls it a "repressive era" of film  (26:00) The NY Times Top 100 List (55:00) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 41 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! E-Kan and Rían jump around this episode with a nice a recap of our recent guests Patrick Massett and Kevin Walsh, and some not so nice news with Actors Access changing their terms of service. You will hear what actors need to know, why actors are in a sticky situation, and the root of the problem actors have with Actors Access.  They also get into a discussion about keeping your status as an actor in a turbulent time in the industry. Then somehow the guys start comparing, who talks about their feelings less- the Irish or the Asians? And of course they start talking about their feelings. This is a deep one, ya'll.  Then E-Kan talks about the recent survey that said the top job wanted by young children was YouTuber or streamer, and why it might not be a bad thing.  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media! @ekansoong, @riansheehykelly Actors Access video - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DM8Cc9tO43p/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.cnbc.com/2019/07/19/more-children-dream-of-being-youtubers-than-astronauts-lego-says.html Hidden Gem: Translate App The Rainmaker (USA Network, Peacock) Time stamps: (0:00) Intro (2:40) Actors Access drama (11:49) Rían's fear of getting in trouble (19:00) Recap of Patrick Massett and Kevin Walsh interviews and insights  (08:07) When Kevin first got the acting bug (23:00) Actions dictate Feelings (26:27) Asian vs Irish culture - who talks about their feelings less?  (34:00) YouTube is young kids' top profession (19:40) A crazy story with the guns and the armorer (41:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 40 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week we have friend of the podcast and fellow actor in Los Angeles, Kevin Walsh!  For most of his life, Kevin was a professional footballer playing around the world, and now he’s taking center stage as an actor. Along with hilarious stories,  Kevin tells the guys about his transition to the arts and how he was a “closeted” actor and knew from early on, he was driven to pursue the arts. They also discuss how Kevin’s athletic background translates to his acting career, the moment when he told his dad he was going to quit playing football and become an actor and how Steven Urkel and Family Matters was an especially formative moment for him. Plenty of sports metaphors in this one - they talk about grit and determination and how film and tv is another great team sport. This was recorded a couple of months ago, and he talks about the process of producing a play -  “The Irish Curse 2.0: The Diverse Curse”. The play just wrapped and has been a success, selling out to great reviews. This is a fun one! If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well.    Kevin Walsh - @mayoyank @theirishcurse2.0_theplay Hidden Gem: Photographer Jeff Vespa @Jeffvespa   Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:08) Getting Started in Acting (05:20) Life as a footballer (06:55) Inspired by Family Matters and Steve Urkel (08:07) When Kevin first got the acting bug (11:30) Having Self-Confidence (14:50) It’s the most complete I feel (16:50) Getting experience on set (19:40) A crazy story with the guns and the armorer (23:55) First paid job as an actor (28:00) Landing an agent and knowing your type (31:00) Why athletes make great actors (34:50) What it takes to producing a play (39:15) Hidden Gem

Welcome to Episode 39 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This is a special one, folks. Writer-Producer Patrick Massett (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Friday Night Lights, The Blacklist) returns to the show.  Unlike most sequels, this one might be better than the first time.  This week, Patrick discusses how Friday Night Lights became a cult classic, his writing process, the very best book on writing, and how he manages to keep the fire going despite the ups and downs of this crazy industry.  They also get into a very insightful conversation about mindset, spirituality, and how sobriety changed Patrick's life.  Of course, there will be more Hollywood stories, like the time Michael Mann almost got Patrick killed. So sit back and enjoy this one!  Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack! And on all social media @actorsguidepodcast If you haven't heard their first conversation Episode 37, the link will be below. They discussed how Patrick grew up in rural Nebraska with a love for movies, starting out as an actor in Hollywood without knowing anyone besides, um, Val Kilmer, and how he broke through early adapting Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, the most successful video game adaptation up until Super Mario.  Patrick's IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0557266/ Patrick Massett Pt 1 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writer-producer-patrick-massett-talks-taking-risks/id1776516950?i=1000717431148 Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:45) Friday Night Lights (10:00) How Friday Night Lights became a cult favorite (14:40) Crazy Eagles football story (16:00) What are the differences between writing and producer credits on a TV show?  (18:00) Dealing with politics on set (32:20) Did you think Jesse Plemons would be a star?  (36:20) Why Robert McKee's Story is the best writing book (45:00) What a writing day looks for Patrick (48:00) How sobriety changed his life (54:50) What's your favorite part about being a writer (1:01:35) The secrets to pitching a show (1:08:30) Gold film with Matthew McConaughey (01:13:30) The Michael Mann story (01:22:22) Hidden Gems