The Working Actor NYC

Every working actor knows the feeling: watching a truly top-level performer and thinking… “How do they do that every day?”In this episode, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes break down the real habits, routines, and rituals we’ve seen in the pros — the ones that keep them consistent, resilient, and ready, even when life throws curveballs.We talk about things like: 🎭 Would you still show up to the theatre every day if an injury kept you offstage? Some performers do — to stay connected to the show, keep their body in therapy, listen from the wings, and remain a part of the company. That level of commitment is a habit, not an accident.🔥 Mindset that keeps you from spiraling 🥗 Diet, hydration, and fuel that actually support performing 💪 Warm-ups and physical routines Broadway actors swear by 😂 And yes — plenty of the usual chaos and jokes you expect when Patrick and Benjamin get togetherThese habits aren’t about perfection. They’re about the tiny choices that keep you grounded, prepared, and professional — whether you’re on Broadway, on tour, or building momentum in your hometown.

It’s the holidays, and that means one thing: people everywhere are trying to figure out what on earth to buy the actor in their life. So in this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Patrick and I put together the ultimate gift guide — featuring 20 actor gifts that range from genuinely helpful… to deeply questionable… to what fever dream did this Etsy creator wake up from? We’ve got everything from: 🎭 A website promising “How To Get A Restaurant Job With Zero Experience” 🕯️ A “Smells Like World’s Best Actor” candle 🎖️ A Tony Award replica (tell me you don’t want one…) 🛋️ Your own face on street furniture (yes, really) 🔪 A Sweeney Todd straight razor (please don’t give this to method actors) 🧣 A Shakespeare throw blanket for the drama queen in your life 🧑‍🎨 And… The Working Actor NYC Merch Table, obviously. (Truly the perfect gift. I don’t make the rules.) Some gifts are sweet. Some are ridiculous. Some are surprisingly awesome. And one of them is literally a bus stop bench with your headshot on it. But honestly? The best gift for your actor might just be what we talk about at the end: love, support, and a soft place to land when the industry gets loud. Happy holidays from The Working Actor NYC — now go get your theatre kid something magical.

From Broadway to birthday clowns — we’re talking every acting job out there, and why they all count.In this episode, we take a wild ride through every corner of the acting world — from Broadway and Off-Broadway stages to national tours, regional houses, and community theatre. We break down film and TV work, commercials, and the surprising ways acting shows up in the corporate world — training videos, industrials, even tech demos and gaming voiceovers.And of course, we couldn’t resist diving into the weird acting jobs: children’s party clown, escape-room characters, historical re-enactors, Santa stand-ins… plus a few of our own stories you’ll have to hear to believe.Whether you’re a new actor figuring out your lane or a seasoned pro remembering your roots, this episode proves one thing: there are so many ways to make a life in this industry.

Spot the monster in your cast before opening night. Every actor has faced them — the narcissists, the laugh snatchers, the egomaniacs who turn rehearsals into nightmares. In this Halloween-inspired episode, Benjamin Howes sits down with actor Patrick Richwood to cast these toxic colleagues as monsters of the stage and set. Whether you’ve dealt with a Narcissactor, an Ego-Saurus Rex, or just a desperate Laugh Snatcher, this episode will help you keep your sanity, protect your craft, and remember: their monster is not your monster. 🎭 Hosted by Benjamin Howes & Patrick Richwood The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. Visit us at https://theworkingactornyc.com/ 🎭 Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!

There's a fine line between blowing off steam - and burning the whole cast.Every actor vents — it’s practically part of the job description. But when does a little healthy release turn into full-on toxic dumping that drags down the energy in the room? In this episode, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dig into the fine line between blowing off steam and becoming the person everyone avoids at rehearsal. Inspired by a listener’s real-life question about a castmate who wouldn’t stop badmouthing their own show, we talk about why we vent, how it bonds us, and what happens when it starts to poison the atmosphere instead of clearing it.With humor, empathy, and a lot of first-hand experience, Benjamin and Patrick share tools that help you stay on the healthy side of that line — from time-limiting your rants to signaling when you just need a minute to unload. They also explore how your emotional energy shapes your reputation in this small industry, and how to keep your venting productive, professional, and human. Whether you’re mid-rehearsal, mid-tour, or mid-meltdown, this episode will help you turn frustration into fuel — and remind you that venting clears the air, but dumping just clouds it.

From baby face to “dad bod” roles — the actor’s aging curve.Getting older in the acting industry comes with its own set of challenges — and some unexpected advantages. In this episode, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the realities of aging on stage and screen: the shifting dynamics of age in a cast, whether age brings respect or obsolescence, and how actors navigate playing older or younger than they really are.With humor, honesty, and a lot of lived experience, we tackle the lies actors are told about age, the truths we’ve learned along the way, and why the conversation matters now more than ever. Whether you’re fresh out of school or decades into your career, this episode will make you laugh, think, and hopefully feel a little less alone in the climb.

Your type gets you in the room. Your wheelhouse books it.Want to land more acting roles? It’s not just about “knowing your type.” In this episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin and Patrick break down the secret edge that helps actors actually book the room: your wheelhouse. You’ll learn what casting type really means, how it differs from your wheelhouse, and why understanding both is essential for building a consistent, hireable brand as an actor.We share personal examples, practical tools to discover your own type and wheelhouse, and how to strategically use them in auditions, headshots, reels, and networking. Whether you’re a student actor or a seasoned professional, this conversation will help you audition with confidence, stand out in crowded casting offices, and ultimately land more roles.Join our community at TheWorkingActorNYC.com and let us know how we're doing!

Rejection isn’t the end — it’s part of the job. Actors face rejection constantly — but what does it really mean, and how do you keep going when it hurts? In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, hosts Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down the truth about rejection: why it feels so personal, why it’s not a verdict on your talent or your worth, and how to shift your mindset so it doesn’t derail your career. You’ll learn 8 practical strategies for handling rejection as an actor, from building resilience and reframing the “no,” to protecting your mental health and staying motivated between auditions. Whether you’re a working actor in NYC, a student actor just starting out, or a performer looking to book more work, this episode will give you the tools to survive rejection and thrive in your acting career. The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. 🎭 Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!

Stop guessing. Start submitting smart. Want a legit acting agent? Here's how to actually get one — and keep them. In this Part 2 deep dive of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down what really works when it comes to landing great representation in today’s industry. Now that your materials are ready (headshot, resumé, reel, website), what’s next? We walk you through the submission process — how to get your work in front of the right agents, at the right time, in the right way. No more sending your career into the void. Plus: how to maintain a great relationship with your rep once you’ve signed, and how to recognize the red flags that might mean it’s time to move on. 🎭 The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. 🎭 Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!

Getting a good agent isn't luck - it's strategy.In this first half of our two-part deep dive, we're breaking down what it really takes to land a legit agent—and what you need to know before you even hit "send" on that email.We’re covering:What agents can and can’t do for your careerPatrick’s real-life stories from both Hollywood and New YorkThe exact materials you’ll need to stand out: headshots, resumés, reels, and websitesWhether you're just starting out or need a serious materials refresh, this episode has you covered—with Benjamin and Patrick’s signature humor and honesty.📌 Part 2 drops August 18th, where we’ll tackle the science of submissions: how to get your materials in front of the right people at the right time, build strong relationships with your rep, and know when it’s time to walk away.Subscribe now so you don’t miss it!

Ever walked out of an audition sweating bullets and replaying every word in your head? Same. Let’s fix that.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down the real, messy, very human anxiety that comes with being a working actor—and what we actually do about it.We cover 14 practical coping strategies that have helped us (and countless friends) navigate: 🎭 Post-audition silence and uncertainty 💰 Financial instability when your next gig isn’t lined up 🔍 The endless, soul-crushing comparison game …and all the other wild curveballs that make actor life both amazing and anxiety-inducing.With honesty, humor, and a few decades of collective experience, we share how to keep your sanity, stay creative, and keep moving forward—even on the hard days.If you’ve ever thought, “Is it just me?”—spoiler: it’s not. And you don’t have to white-knuckle it alone.

Feeling stuck? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive into procrastination and perfectionism — the two sneaky career killers actors face every day. 🎭We share why it happens, what it looks like specifically for actors today, and real strategies to break the cycle: accountability buddies, “schedule over mood,” and more.We’ve been there. We get it. And we’re here to help you get unstuck.🎙 Subscribe for honest, funny and practical talk about making it as a working actor in NYC and beyond.

Watching the Tonys as an actor: Here's what hit us.What do the 2025 Tony Awards have to teach working actors who are… not currently at Radio City? In this episode, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes talk about everything from the incredible diversity of this year’s winners to the emotional rollercoaster of watching your friends sing live on national TV while you’re eating leftovers in sweatpants. 💁‍♂️We dig into how representation really does matter, how comparison can sneak in if you’re not careful, and why seeing your peers succeed can actually be fuel—not failure. Spoiler: no one is immune to the occasional spiral, but there are ways through it.If you've ever watched the Tonys and thought, “Why not me?”—this one’s for you. 💥

Booked a Broadway show… by writing it himself. What if the thing that books you next isn’t another audition—but something you create yourself?In this episode, I sit down with Tony-nominated actor and writer Hunter Bell, whose self-created musical [title of show] made it all the way to Broadway—and earned him a Tony nomination for Best Book of a Musical.But this conversation isn’t just about musicals. It’s about how creating your own work—at any scale—can unlock your career. A scene with friends. A self-tape you write. A skit. A social media post. A short film. A web series. You don’t need permission to get started—you just need to start.Hunter shares first-hand advice on taking creative control, building something from scratch, and what it means to make your own space in the industry. And since we’ve been friends for 19 years (I was Hunter’s understudy on [title of show]!), you’ll also get some laughs, some real talk, and a ton of insight.✨ Whether you're a working actor, a student, or someone hustling to level up—this episode will leave you inspired to make something today.🔗 Subscribe to The Working Actor NYC for more interviews, insights, and industry motivation.

Okay—real talk. How many times have you been told, 'You’ve gotta network!'... and immediately felt your soul leave your body?I know it’s not just me, because some of you responded on our TikTok and Instagram pages that you feel the same way.Whether you're on set, in the rehearsal room, or grabbing a drink after class—there’s this pressure, this low-key panic that says, 'Be likable. Be remembered. Make a connection!'But here’s the thing: most of us are going about it totally wrong.Networking doesn’t have to be awkward, fake, or cringe. In fact, if it feels like networking… you’re probably not doing it right.In this episode, we’re flipping the script. We are sharing real, honest ways to connect—with casting, crew, directors, even other actors—without ever feeling like you’re selling yourself.This is for the actor who wants real relationships, not just contacts in their phone.

Acting is hard. Staying in love with it is harder. Here's what helps.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, seasoned Broadway and TV veterans Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes dive deep into what keeps working actors inspired through decades of triumphs and trials. A must-watch for working actors, acting students, and passionate performers, this honest, hilarious, and moving conversation explores why we fall in love with acting—and how we stay in love with it. From discovering your artistic tribe and navigating toxic rehearsal rooms to the power of collaboration, storytelling, and personal impact, this episode is a heartfelt masterclass in resilience, creativity, and community in the professional acting world. Whether you're just starting out or grinding in NYC’s audition rooms, this is your reminder of why we do what we do.

🎭 What IS a big break, really? In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, seasoned performers Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive deep into the elusive concept of the “big break” in an actor’s career. From getting discovered by legendary director Garry Marshall to navigating showcase contracts and life-changing auditions, this conversation is packed with hilarious, heartfelt, and honest insights every working actor, acting student, and aspiring star needs to hear. Whether you're grinding in regional theatre, hustling in NYC, or aiming for your first TV role, this episode is a must-listen for actors in film, television, and theatre who want to book more jobs, build lasting careers, and raise their profile in the industry. 🎬✨

🎭 How do I use Social Media to help me build my acting career, without burning out? How Does “Type” Differ from “Personal Brand” for Actors? In this candid and insightful conversation, seasoned New York City actors Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack some of the most pressing questions for today’s working actors: how does your “type” differ from your personal brand — and how does that impact casting in film, television, and theatre? This episode is a must-watch for actors at all levels who are trying to navigate social media without ending up under the bed, book more work, and increase their visibility with casting directors. With decades of Hollywood, Broadway, theatre, and screen experience between them, Patrick and Benjamin explore how branding, consistency, and self-expression intersect with modern-day casting decisions. If you're a working actor, studying acting, or ready to level up your profile and get in more rooms, this video offers real talk, personal strategies, and a whole lot of laughs. ❤️🎬

Being an understudy is one of the most challenging and underappreciated roles in the acting world. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes dive deep into the highs, lows, and unexpected surprises of stepping into someone else’s shoes on stage. From nerve-wracking performances to career-changing moments, they share firsthand experiences and industry insights every actor—whether working, studying, or looking to book higher-profile roles—needs to hear. Tune in for backstage stories, expert tips, and a candid discussion on what it really means to be an understudy in theater!This conversation provides a fantastic look into the experiences of understudies in the theater world, with a lot of personal insights shared from both actors involved. The camaraderie, preparation, challenges, and even moments of invisibility—there's a depth of honesty and understanding here that comes with the territory of being an understudy. The light-hearted moments (like the story of garlic breath bonding) and the more serious reflections (the "invisibility cloak" and the weight of responsibility) create a full picture of what it's like to step into someone else's shoes while navigating the complexities of theater life.It also highlights some lesser-discussed aspects of the job, such as the emotional and physical challenges of understudying, the pressure to be ready, and the dynamics between understudies and the rest of the cast and crew. The balance between individuality and loyalty to the original performance is another compelling point, showing the nuance required in such a role.The personal stories about how understudies are sometimes sidelined or made to feel invisible, despite the effort and talent they bring to the table, are particularly striking. It speaks to a culture in the theater world that could do better to acknowledge and support these roles.There’s a deep understanding of the power of preparation and confidence too, and how important it is for an understudy to own their moment. The episode wraps up with a bit of humor and warmth, showing how embracing the moment, being present, and working together as a team are key to making these experiences work.Name Checked: Shirley MacLaine, Carol Haney, Peter Scolari, John Treacy Egan, Marilu Henner, Jim Parsons, Chris Sieber, Mario Andretti, Susan Blackwell

In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, veteran actors Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes delve into the evolving world of self-tapes and how they’ve become an essential part of booking more work, particularly in TV, film, and theater. They share personal insights, including how self-tapes have shaped their careers, how they manage tight turnaround times, and tips for ensuring your self-tape stands out. The conversation explores the challenges of virtual auditions, the importance of being adaptable with your performance, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of booking roles from self-tapes. If you're an actor looking to improve your self-taping process and book more roles that elevate your profile, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and real-world experiences. Tune in to discover how you can master the art of self-tapes and increase your chances of landing more high-profile work in the competitive world of acting. Name Checked: Jim Parsons, John Doyle, Lisa Birnbaum, Martin Short, Barbara Stanwyck, Susan Blackwell.