Offstage Acting

Todd Kramer and Jay Reum are joined by the brilliant Pippa Winslow — actor, singer, voice artist, teacher, and all-around force of nature — for a joyful, insight-packed conversation with someone who has truly lived the actor’s life.With a career spanning four decades, Pippa trained in the U.S. at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, worked extensively in New York, and has since made London her home for many years. Today, she’s still very much in the game — currently appearing in Paranormal Activity in the West End — and bringing the same curiosity, courage, and craft that have defined her career from the start.Pippa shares stories from a lifetime onstage and onscreen, along with practical, hard-won advice for actors at every stage: training, resilience, longevity, community, and how to stay creatively alive in a profession that constantly tests you. Beyond the credits, what really stands out is her generosity — her commitment to supporting actors, building community, and openly sharing the knowledge she’s gathered along the way.Jay and Todd had an absolute blast with her, and you can hear it. Funny, honest, deeply encouraging, and packed with real-world wisdom — this episode is a gift to aspiring actors and seasoned pros alike.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 – Welcome & introducing Pippa Winslow03:40 – Training in San Francisco and finding her footing09:10 – Early work in New York15:30 – Making the move to London21:50 – Building a long-term acting life28:20 – Theatre, voice work, and versatility34:40 – What four decades in the business teaches you41:10 – Supporting actors and building community47:30 – Staying curious and creatively alive54:00 – Advice for aspiring actors1:00:10 – Longevity, resilience, and perspective1:06:30 – Why the work still matters1:12:40 – Final thoughts & wrap-up💬 Join the ConversationWhat advice from Pippa hit home for you?How do you think about longevity and community in your own acting journey?Drop a comment and let’s talk about staying in the game — and helping each other do the same.🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW🎧 Podcast & more: https://offstageacting.com/podcast📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/offstageacting🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@offstageacting🌐 Todd’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer🌐 Jay’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum#️⃣ HASHTAGS#acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #actorslife #WorkingActor #ActorTraining #TheatreActor #WestEnd #Longevity #PippaWinslow #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Effie T. Brown is one of those names in Hollywood that carries weight—and for good reason. With decades of experience as a producer, showrunner, and CEO, Effie is a true force in the industry.In this episode, Todd and Jay sit down with their longtime friend for a rich, deeply honest conversation about what it really means to lead with heart in Hollywood. From early producing jobs on groundbreaking indie films (Real Women Have Curves, But I’m a Cheerleader) to her trailblazing leadership at Gamechanger Films and her outspoken advocacy for inclusion in entertainment, Effie doesn’t pull punches.We talk about her love of actors, how she learned to lead, the importance of staying authentic in a cutthroat business, and the joy (and stress) of building projects with purpose.This one is personal, powerful, and packed with truth.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 – Welcome Effie T. Brown01:45 – What producers really do06:10 – Real Women Have Curves and launching a legacy09:35 – But I’m a Cheerleader, and not pulling punches13:50 – Starting out and surviving in the business17:15 – Project Greenlight and the Matt Damon moment23:30 – Building Gamechanger Films27:00 – Fighting for equity in entertainment30:45 – Why she loves actors33:10 – The emotional labor of leadership37:50 – Effie on working with directors and trust41:25 – Keeping it real (and still getting paid)46:00 – Mentorship and creating space for others51:30 – Reflections on being a Black woman in Hollywood56:40 – Advice for actors and future producers1:00:30 – “No one can do you better than you”1:04:00 – Wrapping up: legacy, purpose, and moving forward💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATIONWe love hearing from you!Tag us, message us, or shout us out if something in this episode hit home.🎧 https://offstageacting.com/podcast📩 https://linktr.ee/toddkramer📩 https://linktr.ee/jayreum🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW📸 Instagram: @offstageacting❌ X: @OffstageActing📘 Facebook: Offstage Acting🎥 YouTube: Offstage Acting📣 HASHTAGSHashtag style:#acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing#EffieTBrown #HollywoodProducer #BlackWomenInFilm #WomenInFilm #InclusiveStorytelling #RealWomenHaveCurves #ButImACheerleader #GamechangerFilms #ProjectGreenlight This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guests are Rob and Helen Bee — voiceover professionals, podcast hosts, and community builders behind The VO Social, a UK-wide grassroots movement that's changing how voice artists connect and grow. Rob and Helen talk with Todd Kramer and Jay Reum about the loneliness of the VO life and how they've worked to combat it — not just with their podcast, but with real-world meetups, business services, and grassroots support. They share their journey from working VO professionals to running a creative services company tailored specifically for voice artists, helping them with tech, websites, branding, and community. We talk about what makes The VO Social different, how to turn freelancing into a sustainable business, and why connection is the secret sauce to surviving the isolation of the booth. 00:00 – Opening 02:12 – The loneliness of voiceover 05:50 – Why they started The VO Social 08:34 – Building grassroots VO connections 11:16 – Moving beyond isolation 14:00 – Turning community into action 17:44 – How the VO Social grew across the UK 21:29 – What voice actors actually need 24:05 – Rob and Helen's transition to business owners 27:48 – Building websites and branding for VOs 31:33 – Common struggles voice artists face 34:22 – Keeping the VO Social accessible 38:16 – What freelancers misunderstand about business 41:12 – Helping artists run things sustainably 44:05 – Freelancing myths and realities 47:18 – Gatekeeping vs. sharing knowledge 50:01 – What works better in-person 53:42 – Mistakes voice artists keep repeating 56:20 – Learning to say no 59:08 – The real value of showing up 1:02:20 – Why VO success isn't about the mic 1:05:45 – What's next for The Bees 1:09:30 – Final thoughts and outro 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Rob and Helen's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 The Bees: Website: https://b-double-e.co.uk Podcast: https://www.thevosocial.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/thevosocial 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is Kenneth Jay, a seasoned Canadian actor with decades of experience across theatre, film, and television. Known for his dedication to craft and his deep respect for storytelling, Kenneth has built a career that bridges continents and philosophies. In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, hosts Todd Kramer and Jay Reum chat with Kenneth about the unique discipline of being an understudy, the art of preparation without certainty, and why truth is always at the center of performance. Kenneth shares his journey from Ottawa to Ryerson Theatre School, his surprising connection to Stanislavski's lineage, and how collaboration, language, and identity shape the actor's path. This conversation is both thoughtful and funny — weaving in the joys, struggles, and revelations of a life lived for the stage. Actors will find wisdom, humor, and a reminder of why we do what we do. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 04:20 – Strapless workouts and silliness 07:00 – PunchTrack: a DAW for narrators 11:00 – Introducing Kenneth Jay 13:00 – Kenneth's showreel and career highlights 16:40 – Growing up in Ottawa, moving to Toronto 18:20 – Ryerson Theatre School and Stanislavski connection 23:30 – Why Kenneth chose theatre over academics 27:00 – The first spark: Robin Hood in grade school 30:00 – Falling in love with Shakespeare 35:10 – The joy and craft of understudying 41:00 – Personal truth inside every performance 47:20 – Collaboration, colleagues, and connection 52:00 – Longevity in the acting industry 57:00 – The gift of language and expression 01:01:30 – Identity and performance 01:05:00 – Laughs, stories, and lessons learned 01:10:00 – Advice for young actors 01:15:00 – Closing thoughts with Kenneth 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Kenneth's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Kenneth Jay IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0419612/  💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #KennethJay #Stanislavski #understudy #theatre #actorsjourney #truthinacting This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is Kym Jackson — Aussie actor, author, and co-founder of the Secret Actor Society. Kym's journey spans continents and platforms: she launched her career onstage in Australia, made the leap to Hollywood, and hasn't stopped working since. You've seen her on Criminal Minds, NCIS: LA, This Is Us, and SWAT — or in films like Snitch, Iron Sky, and We Bury the Dead. But acting is just one facet of her creative powerhouse. In this episode, Kym opens up about navigating the business with grace and grit — from managing self-tapes and raising a family to launching an actor-focused education platform. She talks coaching, casting, demo reels (the good, the bad, and the too-long), and how she landed a dream pilot that never made it past COVID. It's a goldmine of insight for any working actor. FREE CLASS AT SAS: https://secretactor.com/pages/free-journey-4b ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:45 – Todd & Jay intro banter: heatwaves and actor gigs 07:00 – Welcome Kym Jackson: Aussie beginnings 11:20 – Big credits and global acting career 15:30 – Life in Atlanta with husband Andrew Steele 18:15 – Acting with a kid: family-work balance 22:00 – Demo reel critiques: what works and what's too much 27:40 – Secret Actor Society: the backstory 32:00 – Coaching actors through pandemic pivots 37:15 – Casting insights: reel length, slates, and self-tapes 42:10 – Building a searchable video knowledge base 47:20 – "The pilot that got COVID-canceled" 51:40 – How to brand yourself as an actor 56:10 – Real talk: career dry spells and mental health 1:01:00 – Keeping up with changing industry norms 1:06:30 – Working with agents & managers 1:10:00 – Tips for international actors in LA 1:14:50 – The value of video coaching and templates 1:19:30 – Rapid-fire questions: auditions, fails & lessons 1:25:10 – Reflecting on Secret Actor Society's growth 1:29:45 – Todd's nerd-out moment: structured actor tools 1:34:00 – Jay's favorite rants & actor myths 1:39:10 – Kym on future dreams and helping actors 1:44:20 – Jay & Todd wind down the convo 1:47:10 – Final takeaways and gratitude 1:50:20 – Outro and what's next 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Kym's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Kim's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekymjackson 🌍 Secret Actor Society: https://secretactorsociety.com 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #SecretActorSociety #selftapes #demoReels #actingcoach #castingdirectors This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's episode is a little different — it's just Todd and Jay, mic'd up and mood-swinging their way through one of those actor chats that starts with "I'm not feeling it" and ends with "okay, I've got a little fire back." In this candid bonus conversation, Todd and Jay explore the ebb and flow of motivation in an actor's life — why it disappears, how to rediscover it, and the tools they've each developed to stay (or get back) on track. From inner drive to outer community, yoga hacks to time-blocking, and even the occasional black hole of self-doubt, this is a brutally honest and refreshingly funny reflection on the ups and downs of creative energy. Whether you're smashing auditions or stuck in the "meh," this episode is for every actor who's ever felt a little lost in the grind. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 01:40 – "I'm just not feeling it today" 03:00 – Losing motivation and why it happens 05:15 – Why actors need inner motivation 07:40 – Jay's "bliss-based" discipline hack 10:30 – Todd on how the body seeks pleasure 13:20 – No money, no validation — just love of the work 15:45 – The unpredictable nature of actor life 17:30 – Yoga, chakras, and the motivation pyramid 20:10 – Balancing survival with creative readiness 22:30 – The curse of missed opportunities 24:00 – Todd's big casting miss while abroad 26:00 – Community as a motivator 28:00 – Why Todd got active in the union 29:40 – Surround yourself with other actors 31:00 – Jay's take: finding inner motivation 33:10 – Community vs. discipline — which drives you? 35:30 – Creating purpose from within 38:00 – Tangible tips for everyday motivation 40:00 – Rebuilding your tribe post-pandemic 42:00 – Inner food vs. outer support 44:30 – Why actors need both solo and ensemble energy 46:00 – Wrap-up and final thoughts 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in this BONUSODE? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #motivation #innerdrive #actorcommunity #selfdiscipline #creativeblock This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is the brilliant Brendan McNamara — actor, former child star, and founder of Beach Casting, a casting agency making waves across the UK and Ireland. From appearing in films like Angela's Ashes and War of the Buttons to launching one of the most actor-friendly casting studios in the game, Brendan shares his uniquely personal journey through both sides of the audition table. We talk candidly about the transition from actor to casting director, the kind of performers he loves to work with, the shifting landscape of self-tapes, and why kindness and professionalism still matter. A must-listen for actors, agents, and anyone curious about what makes a great casting experience — both behind and in front of the camera. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – A Very Irish Opening 05:01 – Todd returns from Derry 10:02 – Brendan's life as a child actor 15:04 – Transitioning into casting 20:06 – What makes an actor stand out 25:03 – Self-tapes: love, hate, and hope 30:00 – Building Beach Casting 35:01 – Advice for actors (and humans) 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Brendan's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Brendan's Agency: https://beach-casting.com 📣 Hashtags #BrendanMcNamara #BeachCasting #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #childactor #castingdirector #filmindustry #selftapes #irishfilm This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is not only a brilliant actor, but one of the loudest, clearest voices advocating for honesty and safety in the industry. Alexa Morden is best known as the co-creator and co-host of The 98% Podcast — a refreshingly unfiltered look at life for the vast majority of actors who don't earn their full living from acting. She's also an award-winning performer in her own right, with credits in Skins, Fresh Meat, The Great Train Robbery, and the indie feature The Colour of Spring, which earned her over 25 Best Actress awards on the festival circuit. In this episode, Alexa opens up about her own career journey, the mission behind The 98%, and her recent role in exposing the Bodhi Talent scandal — a shocking case where a UK agent scammed dozens of actors with fake auditions and unpaid work. Alexa helped connect victims, raise public awareness, and start a bigger conversation about ethics and accountability in actor representation. It's a powerful chat about community, truth-telling, and what it really means to stand up for the people who keep this industry running. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:30 – Fierce advocate for actors & self-tape strategy 05:00 – From indie film to global Netflix releases 07:30 – Casting classically and breaking rules 10:00 – The craft of acting: what never goes out of style 12:30 – Tips for managing audition anxiety 15:00 – Alex on finding your edge in self-tapes 17:30 – Why he created "Let's Talk Acting" 20:00 – Acting as activism and industry mental health 22:30 – How to stand out when everyone's good 25:00 – Todd on the UK vs. US actor struggle 27:30 – Resilience, burnout, and holding the line 30:00 – Favorite roles and the characters who stuck 32:30 – Jay's chaotic energy and actor mythbusting 35:00 – The real deal with acting reels 37:30 – Coaches, gurus, and navigating bad advice 40:00 – Teaching with honesty and humour 42:30 – Wrapping up: gratitude and future goals 💬 Join the Conversation What was your experience with agents starting out? Have you ever felt misled or manipulated in the name of getting work? Drop us a comment below — we'd love to hear your story. 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and more: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Follow Alexa: https://www.instagram.com/alexa_morden 🎙️ The 98% Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DjMU7Di7fWYCFd82U4jSC 🔖 Hashtags #acting #actorlife #AlexaMorden #The98PercentPodcast #BodhiTalent #OffstageActing #actingpodcast #actorcommunity #ToddKramer #JayReum #scamalert #actingcareer This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

This week on Offstage Acting, Todd Kramer welcomes the brilliant Kezia Burrows — a Welsh actor whose career spans classical theatre, television drama, and the high-stakes world of motion capture and video game performance. Born in Neath and raised in the seaside village of New Quay, Kezia trained at RADA and now voices and embodies characters in some of the most acclaimed games out there. You might know her as Amanda Ripley in Alien: Isolation, Dr. Emma Fisher in Observation, or from Cyberpunk 2077, CrossfireX, Hellblade, and more. We dive into: 🎭 Her classical training and transition to screen and digital media 🎮 The art of performance capture and voice acting for video games 🧠 What it means to build a career across mediums — without losing yourself 😂 Funny moments, real talk, and the beauty of creative discipline If you're a gamer, an actor, or just a curious human — this one's for you. Let's get into it with Kezia (Kez to her friends — but not you!) Burrows. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 07:32 – "Is that the guest?" Jay jumps the gun 10:01 – Kezia's big entry and Todd's RADA memories 17:31 – On being ready when the work finally lands 22:32 – From Neath to the National Youth Theatre 27:31 – Hallmark movies and ocean filming 30:00 – Discovering voiceover through casting agents 34:30 – "What's in a name?" – Keziah vs. Kezia 39:00 – Laughing through auditions and self-tapes 42:30 – Drama school stories and rediscovering joy 45:00 – Losing her mum and acting through grief 48:00 – What theatre gives that screen doesn't 51:00 – Her first video game experience: nerves & lessons 54:00 – Todd on why acting in games is tougher than it looks 57:00 – The new podcast and why actors need community 1:00:00 – Family life, rural balance, and creative reset 1:03:00 – Jay's game obsessions and nerdy voice questions 1:06:00 – Baroness Jamie: intense prep and mental pacing 1:09:00 – "There are no breaks" – parenting as a performer 1:12:00 – Shifting gears: what's next for Kezia 1:15:00 – Wrap-up, reflection, and future projects 💬 Join the Conversation Are you a motion capture nerd? A classically trained actor with a digital side hustle? Or just someone who loves a good alien invasion? Drop a comment — let's talk performance, pixels, and posh accents. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

This week we are celebrating our 50th episode! Hurray. Jay and I talk about where we've been where we are and were going. We catch up with Jay after his month long yoga retreat to India. My experience doing amateur dramatics. And we dive into a few other fun topics all in celebration of the good times we've had so far and the good times yet to come. So here's to the first and the next 50 episodes of the offstage acting podcast!   #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is Jason Baughan - a classically trained actor whose journey from the West End stage to directing cinematic storytelling in major video games is nothing short of epic. In this episode, Todd Kramer and Jay Reum welcome the multi-talented Jason Baughan (yes, that's "Baughan," not "Bourne") for a spirited dive into his career evolution. Trained at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Jason started with a love of Shakespeare and a West End run in the Olivier-winning Sunny Afternoon, where he went from guitar player to live stage drummer in front of 900 people. Eventually, burnout pushed him toward a surprising pivot — directing voice performance in major video games like Assassin's Creed and The Witcher. Jason talks about why actor-directors bring something special to the booth, how storytelling works differently in games, and why leaving the stage wasn't a step back but a step toward something new. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:00 – Jay's packing panic for India 04:30 – Todd's amateur dramatic debut 06:10 – Jason Baughan or Jason Bourne? 07:45 – Baughan's Guildhall roots 09:00 – Theatre life and Olivier wins 10:40 – Playing drums live on West End 12:30 – Burnout and career redirection 14:15 – The "Sunny Afternoon" cast switch 16:00 – What makes a good show sour 17:50 – Discovering voice direction 19:10 – Skills actors bring to directing 21:00 – Working on Assassin's Creed 22:30 – The Witcher voice secrets 24:40 – Directing performance in games 26:20 – Why story matters in gameplay 28:00 – Loving the collaborative process 30:30 – Actor-director dynamics 32:15 – Jay and Jason's past projects 34:00 – Todd's accidental name flub 35:10 – Why Jason still calls himself an actor 36:40 – Getting real about identity shifts 39:00 – Final thoughts and actor wisdom 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Jason's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Jason Baughan 🎭 IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0062340/ 🎙️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasonbaughan 🎮 Side Global: https://www.sideglobal.com/ 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #videogames #voiceacting #gamedevelopment #actingcareer #Shakespeare #AAAgames #Guildhall #AssassinsCreed #TheWitcher This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Sometimes an actor goes through all of the training and all of the courses and pays all their dues and does very well and enjoys the education and the process… and then steps out into the bright lights of the industry with all its mechanisms and professional trappings, takes a long look around and says: "Meh. You know what? I don't think this is for me. I don't love it." And today, Todd Kramer and Jay Reum talk to just such an actor. His name is Rob Cairns. But don't worry about good old Rob—he's landed on his feet. Rob trained at UEA and the Oxford School of Drama, dove deep into the craft, and came out the other side with clarity: the acting life wasn't his forever path. Instead, he pivoted into a life behind the mic—becoming an audiobook producer and founding Voice Reel London, where he now helps actors and voice artists craft high-quality showreels and narration work. Jay and Todd recently collaborated with Rob on an audiobook project, and in this episode, they talk all things training, transitions, self-awareness, and sound waves. It's a real look at how one actor stepped back from center stage—and found a new way to perform. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 03:00 – When actors realize acting isn't "it" 06:30 – Rob's acting training and Oxford journey 10:00 – The "smart quitter" mindset 13:00 – What drama school really prepares you for 15:30 – Jay and Todd's training comparison 18:30 – From actor to audio engineer 22:00 – Founding Voice Reel London 26:00 – Creating voice reels for today's industry 30:00 – Todd's audiobook adventures 33:00 – The joys and pains of audiobook narration 36:30 – Rob's pivot during COVID 40:00 – The audition disillusion 43:00 – Are you cut out for the actor life? 46:00 – Measuring passion vs. practicality 49:00 – What Rob loves about sound production 52:00 – Todd & Jay riff on zodiacs & Aries vibes 56:00 – "Manifesting" your own creative pivot 59:00 – Final thoughts from Rob 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Rob's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Rob Cairns: Voice Reel London 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #voiceover #audioproduction #dramaschool #actorpivot #oxfordschoolofdrama #voicereels #audiobookproduction #careerchange #voicereellondon #creativecareer This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Today's guest is Nathan Osgood, a boundary-blurring actor, voice artist, and jazz musician whose career spans decades and dimensions. Todd Kramer and Jay Reum dive into a lively, layered chat with Nathan, whose life has taken him from East End pubs to Broadway, BBC editing suites to Cyberpunk 2077, and Soho jazz clubs to West End stages. Adopted by a Native American G.I. and raised by a Cockney mum, Nathan's unique upbringing shaped a chameleon-like versatility that's made him a standout across mediums. They cover everything from the "hurry up and wait" grind of film sets, to the jazz trio that's been packing out London pubs for years. With stories about Meryl Streep, Cillian Murphy, and narrating Mark Twain, Nathan keeps it both hilarious and heartfelt. Whether you're a theatre purist, a VO nerd, or someone who just wants to stay creatively lit, this one's for you. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 03:00 – Meet Nathan Osgood 05:30 – Born British, Raised Mohawk-Cockney 08:00 – From Film Editor to Full-Time Actor 11:30 – Early Acting Days and Big Stage Breaks 14:20 – Jazz Life on the Side 17:00 – Broadway, West End, and the National 20:00 – What Actors Really Remember From Set 24:00 – The Long List of Collaborators 28:30 – Audiobooks and Accents Galore 31:00 – Winning the Earphones Award 34:00 – Lego Star Wars and Cyberpunk Cameos 37:00 – Life as a Voice Actor 40:00 – Mentoring the Next Gen of Performers 43:00 – The Grit and Grind of Staying in the Game 47:00 – Balancing Jazz, Acting, and Family 50:00 – Soho Sets and Sunday Rehearsals 53:00 – Dialects and Character Play 56:00 – Why the Work is Always the Reward 59:00 – Advice for Lifelong Creatives 💬 Join the Conversation What inspired you about Nathan's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Nathan Osgood: IMDb 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum #️⃣ Hashtags #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #voiceacting #jazzguitar #broadwayactor #cyberpunk2077 #audiobooknarrator #marktwain #lego #sohojazz #nathanosgood #creativecareer This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Jay Reum and Todd Kramer sit down with actor Isaac Gonzalez Rossi, a charming Cuban-American performer whose journey from the vibrant streets of Miami to the bright lights of Hollywood feels genuinely cinematic. With a passion for storytelling sparked early in life, Isaac talks openly about finding his footing as an actor, navigating identity, ambition, and opportunity, and steadily building a career role by role. Along the way, he reflects on heritage, craft, and the confidence required to keep showing up in an industry that rewards persistence as much as talent. Warm, funny, and refreshingly honest, this conversation explores what it means to grow into yourself as an artist — and how charm, discipline, and heart can carry you a long way. A true Latin prince charming, with the work ethic to back it up. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Welcome & introducing Isaac Gonzalez Rossi 03:40 – Growing up in Miami and early creative sparks 08:30 – Discovering acting and the pull toward storytelling 13:50 – Cultural identity and representation 19:10 – Leaving home and chasing bigger opportunities 24:30 – First steps toward Hollywood 30:00 – Charm, confidence, and being yourself on screen 35:40 – Auditions, setbacks, and momentum 41:10 – Roles that helped shape his career 46:30 – Balancing ambition with authenticity 52:10 – What Isaac looks for in characters 57:40 – Lessons learned along the way 01:03:10 – Advice for actors coming up now 01:08:30 – What's next on the horizon 01:13:50 – Final thoughts & wrap-up 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Isaac's story? Are you navigating identity, ambition, or a big leap of your own as an actor? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways. 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Podcast & more: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting ❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing 📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/offstageacting 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@offstageacting 🌐 Todd's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 🌐 Jay's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum #️⃣ HASHTAGS #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #actorslife #WorkingActor #LatinActors #HollywoodJourney #CareerStories #IsaacGonzalezRossi #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Tim Otis is an actor who has appeared in countless film and TV projects and has done - get this - a staggering 100 commercials. Well, when both your father and stepfather were actors from Hollywood's golden age, chances are you'll end up somewhere in the entertainment industry. But Tim's path is far from typical. Based in Prague, he's also a sought-after DJ, longtime radio presenter, vinyl purist, and passionate advocate for addiction recovery. He's a dad, a husband, a brother to fellow actor Ted Otis Jr., and (fun fact) the son of an heiress to the Listerine fortune - maybe that's why he always ends up playing some kind of medical professional...? In this episode, Todd Kramer (@toddkramer) and Jay Reum catch up with their old friend to hear stories from a life lived boldly across stages, sets, and DJ booths. Tim reflects on the commercial grind, navigating the Czech casting scene, growing up on Hollywood backlots, and how he's found purpose beyond the camera. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:10 – Tim Otis intro & career teaser 04:30 – Saving a life at a VO agent party 08:00 – Training for whitewater rescue  11:00 – DJ days in Prague's hottest clubs 13:30 – Booking work in early 2000s Eastern Europe 15:20 – Life as "the commercial guy" 18:00 – Being the CEO, doctor, or clipboard guy 20:40 – Prague's casting scene then vs now 23:15 – A hundred ads and counting 25:00 – Family legacy: growing up with Clifford David 28:10 – A stepfather's warning: "The rejection business" 30:00 – Commercials, radio, and vinyl passion projects 33:20 – Loving radio & broadcasting 36:00 – Self-tapes vs in-person castings 38:20 – Regional advice: Prague, Budapest, Sofia 41:10 – Tim's first acting gig story 43:00 – Day jobs and sustaining the creative hustle 45:30 – A journeyman actor's mindset 48:00 – Gratitude, preparation & faking confidence 50:30 – Shoutouts, memories, and mutual admiration 52:00 – Outro & final thoughts  💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Tim's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Guest Links: https://linktr.ee/optimism1  💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer  💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

This episode is one of the most raw and powerful conversations we've had on Offstage Acting. Actor, mentor, and creative soul Richard Camacho joins us to talk about transformation — not the kind that happens in the makeup chair, but the kind that happens deep within. From time spent in prison to performing Shakespeare, from homelessness to helping others break cycles of trauma, Richard's journey is a testament to the healing and redemptive power of the arts. It's a gripping, emotional, and at times spiritual conversation — with plenty of laughs along the way. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:30 – Meeting Richard: energy, intensity, and presence 06:00 – Growing up in East LA: identity and danger 09:00 – First jail stint and the beginning of a pattern 12:30 – How prison changed his outlook 16:00 – Discovering acting in a halfway house 19:30 – "It wasn't a career — it was a lifeline" 22:00 – First play, first Shakespeare moment 26:00 – Theatre vs. therapy: using the stage to heal 30:00 – Jay on rage, grief, and masculine silence 34:00 – Acting as activism: giving voice to the voiceless 38:00 – Richard's approach to roles: heart, soul, story 42:00 – Building a life after the system 46:00 – Helping others break cycles through art 50:00 – Big dreams and grounded wisdom 54:00 – Wrap-up and final reflections 💬 Join the Conversation Which part of Richard's story hit you the hardest? Drop us a comment or tag us — we want to hear from you. 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting ❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing #BogotaTheatre #TheatreCommunity #LivePerformance #ActingCommunity #TheatreLife #StageStorytelling #ActorsOfTheWorld #TheatreArts #CulturalExchange #TeatroBogotá #TeatroColombiano #ArteYCultura #ComunidadTeatral #EscenaBogotá #ArtesEscénicas #TeatroIndependiente #FestivalDeTeatro #Actuación #HistoriasEnEscena #BogotáCultural #TeatroParaTodos #ComunidadesCreativas #ArteQueTransforma #TeatroSocial #EscenaLatina #BogotáArte #TeatroYComunidad This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

This one's just us. 🎭 No guest. No filters. Just two working actors — Todd Kramer and Jay Reum — getting real about what it takes to stay in the game when everything feels stuck. We talk about burnout, creative droughts, shifting priorities, bad auditions, fighting for mental clarity, and figuring out what really fuels you as an artist. It's funny, it's fierce, and it's the kind of episode every actor should bookmark for the next time they feel like quitting. Whether you're broke, blocked, or just plain tired, this Bonusode will remind you why we do it — and how to keep doing it on your own terms. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:30 – Actor New Year chaos: what even is this industry 07:30 – Creative slumps and why they sneak up on you 12:30 – What's the point when nothing's working? 17:30 – The future, the fear, and forging your own path 22:30 – What motivates us (and what definitely doesn't) 27:30 – Small wins, big perspective 31:30 – Holding space for your actor self 36:00 – Final words: keep going 💬 Join the Conversation Been in a slump lately? Tell us how you're staying motivated (or not). Drop a comment or DM us. 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting ❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing 🔗 Todd's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 🔗 Jay's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum #actingpodcast #actorlife #motivationforactors #burnout #workingactors #toddandjay #offstageacting #actorsupport #creativityslump This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

Ho ho hold on to your caps boys and girls, gather round and meet Stephen Wickham, the UK's one-and-only Real Santa. His beard is so real, so lush, so downright jolly that it has its own fan club (with Jay as the self-appointed, president). Stephen doesn't just play Santa. He is Santa. No, really. Just don't ask about the reindeer. The insurance premiums are enough to make an elf cry. But here's the twist. When he's not climbing down chimneys or listening to your child ask for a the latest iPhone, Stephen is an actor. A proper actor. We're talking 40 years of stage-and-screen credits, Christmas commercials, and roles where he wasn't even required to say "Ho ho ho" (although we bet he did anyway).  So join Todd Kramer and Jay Reum as they dive headfirst into Stephen's Santa-shaped life. They'll unwrap the myths, sip the eggnog, dodge the tinsel, and discover how one man turned a casting brief into a full-blown sleigh ride of a career and find out how one man makes a living playing Father Christmas when all he ever gets paid in is milk and cookies. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:00 – Santa crashes the intro 03:30 – Meet Stephen Wickham 05:10 – Becoming the UK's real Santa 07:30 – Commercials, movies, and holiday magic 09:45 – Early acting days and first tours 12:15 – Working with Bill Kenwright 14:30 – The beard is real 15:50 – Getting cast in Mrs. Brown's Boys 17:20 – Embracing the Santa niche 19:10 – Acting versus Santa gigs 21:40 – Playing the "big guy" roles 23:00 – Childhood inspirations and early performances 25:30 – Life on the road with Joseph 28:00 – The craft of repetition and performing 30:15 – Actor grind: travel, trains, and tinsel 32:00 – Family legacy in film industry 34:20 – From Darth Vader to Father Christmas 36:30 – The real Santa's website 38:00 – Joy in performance 40:00 – Audience reactions and holiday spirit 42:00 – Staying grounded and grateful 44:00 – Closing thoughts from Santa 💬 Join the Conversation What resonated with you in Stephen's story? Drop your thoughts in the comments — or tag us on socials with your takeaways! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 🤩 Facebook: https://facebook.com/OffstageActing 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/OffstageActing 🌍 Guest: https://www.therealsanta.co.uk 💫 TODD: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 💫 JAY: https://linktr.ee/jayreum This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

This week we're joined by the multi-talented Laurence Bouvard — an actress, voice artist, audiobook narrator, and creative powerhouse who's crossed continents and mediums in her career. From training at Harvard and Drama Studio London to voicing characters in some of your favorite audiobooks, Laurence shares her journey navigating the stage, screen, and sound booth. We get into accent mastery, audiobook techniques, working internationally, and how actors can future-proof their careers by diversifying with intention (and joy!). ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 02:30 – Why Laurence almost gave up acting 05:00 – From Harvard to Drama Studio London 10:00 – UK vs. US training: differences that shaped her 15:00 – Early acting gigs and the shift into voice 20:00 – Mastering accents across languages 25:00 – What makes a great audiobook narrator 30:00 – Jay fangirls over Laurence's audiobook credits 35:00 – Studio tech, comfort, and remote workflow tips 40:00 – Building a long-term voice career 45:00 – Advice to actors: diversification = survival 50:00 – Final reflections and actor encouragement 💬 Join the Conversation Which part of Laurence's story resonated most with you? Leave a comment or tag us in your post-show thoughts! 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting ❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing 🌐 Todd's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 🌐 Jay's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 🎧 Laurence Bouvard: https://www.laurencebouvard.com 📣 HASHTAGS #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #act #actorslife #ToddKramer #JayReum #OffstageActing #voiceacting #audiobooknarrator #voicetalent #laurencebouvard #ukacting #harvardalumni #dramaeducation #accentwork #remotevoicework This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com

David Fellowes was born in Nairobi just before the D-Day landings, has performed across stage, screen, and studio for over half a century — and claims to have pitched the idea of the internet. Honestly? We believe him. In this episode, the legendary (and delightfully unfiltered) David Fellowes joins us to share tales from a long life in the arts. From rep theatre and cruise ship gigs to his storied family tree (yes, that Julian Fellowes is his brother), David weaves together humour, wisdom, and some seriously unexpected stories. If you like your acting insight served with charm, history, and a dash of chaos — this one's for you. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening banter 03:00 – Who is David Fellowes? Nairobi to the stage 07:00 – Acting in the '60s and surviving rep theatre 11:00 – A strange cruise contract and other gig adventures 15:00 – The voiceover years: from BBC to bedroom booth 19:00 – Storytime: how David invented the internet (allegedly) 23:00 – Growing up with Julian and Rory Fellowes 27:00 – Jay & Todd try to keep up with the tangents 31:00 – Reflections on the biz: brutal and brilliant 36:00 – Final words from a lifelong storyteller 💬 Join the Conversation What's the wildest gig you've taken as an actor? Drop a comment or tag us with your story. Bonus points if it involves cruise ships, old theatres, or accidental tech inventions. 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW 🎧 Full Podcast & More: https://offstageacting.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/offstageacting ❌ X: https://x.com/OffstageActing 🌐 Todd's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer 🌐 Jay's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum 📣 HASHTAGS #acting #actingpodcast #actor #actors #actorslife #voiceartist #stageactor #DavidFellowes #OffstageActing #TheatreHistory #CruiseShipActor #RepTheatre #Storyteller #OldSchoolActor #JulianFellowes #InternetOriginStory #CreativeLife This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit offstageacting.substack.com