Where Working Actors Talk

In this episode, award-winning Afro-Latina actress and filmmaker Loren Escandón shares her inspiring journey from Cali, Colombia, to Hollywood. Growing up surrounded by cartel violence, Loren’s mother enrolled her in ballet to keep her safe, which sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling. She shares how her early training in ballet, tango, and jazz eventually led her to theater and television, as well as the challenges of navigating cultural shifts and learning to embrace her accent. Loren has appeared in hit series including Gentefied, 9-1-1, S.W.A.T., Selena: The Series, Truth Be Told, and Freevee’s Casa Grande. She is best known for her breakout role as Marisol in Netflix’s Purple Hearts. Beyond acting, Loren is an accomplished director and writer. Her debut, Phone Tales, premiered at multiple festivals, and her latest short, Los Patines, has won numerous awards including Best Short at the San Pedro International Film Festival and Best Latino Short and Director at the NYC Downtown Short Film Festival. Throughout the conversation, Loren emphasizes resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of representation in storytelling. She offers insights into her creative process, her experiences navigating multiple cities and cultures, and her vision for what’s coming next.00:00 Introduction and Early Life 00:25 Discovering Ballet and Storytelling 01:32 Transition to Acting and Moving to the US 02:27 Navigating the Acting Industry 03:48 First TV Role and Learning the Ropes 05:49 Settling in LA and Finding Representation 11:24 Audition Challenges and Self-Acceptance 16:59 The Importance of Training and Comedy 25:17 Wardrobe and Character Embodiment 26:50 Collaborative Costume Design 27:22 Realism in Acting 28:57 Transition to Directing 31:57 Creating Los Patina 34:50 Challenges and Triumphs 39:34 Future Projects and Aspirations 46:44 Reflections and Inspirations 49:46 Inside the Actor's Studio QuestionsEPISODE LINKS:· Loren’s IMDb· Follow Loren on IG @lorenescandonHost: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

A.J. Castro was born in Costa Rica and raised in Miami, where he quickly found his love of acting. He sits down with host Colleen Foy to talk about his journey in the industry and finding his place as a Latino in Hollywood. From studying at CSULA to booking Will & Grace and 9-1-1, A.J.’s journey has now led him to becoming a coach at SKS. He shares his early career struggles, his entry into Hollywood through perseverance and community support, living a lifelong career with shifting goals over time, finding writing, and how being a father has shaped his stories. A.J. also shares insights about adapting to the industry’s demands, and how he found Stan Kirsch Studios right when he needed it. You’ll learn the importance of having a process, finding joy in the creative journey, and giving yourself grace in your creative process. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:09 AJ's Journey to the Studio 01:22 Moving to LA: The Early Years 02:34 Finding Footing in LA 02:49 Acting Beginnings in Miami 06:25 Challenges and Growth in Acting 07:50 The Importance of Goals and Consistency 14:48 Navigating the Acting Industry 30:00 Booking 911 & The Payoff of Consistency 30:56 Overcoming Intimidation and Self-Doubt 33:19 The Importance of Casting and Perseverance 35:06 Branding and Marketing as an Actor 36:54 Discovering and Embracing Your Type 43:15 Writing as a Creative Outlet46:54 Balancing Acting and Writing52:51 Inside the Actor's Studio Questions 57:12 Final Thoughts and AspirationsEPISODE LINKS:· AJ Castro’s IMDb· Follow AJ on IG @realajcastro · AJ’s Links· Learn More about AJ’s Classes at SKSHost: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

Allen Rowe (FBI Most Wanted, The Last Ship, Hawaii Five-0, ) has been a long time student of Stan Kirsch Studios. In this episode, he joins his mentor Colleen Foy to look back on his unique journey as an actor. Allen shares his early struggles, including flying between San Francisco and Los Angeles for auditions and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Born in Taipei, Taiwan and being of Chinese descent meant that Allen had to deal with a lack of roles that he saw himself in early on. It was because of his community and classes at studios like SKS that kept him going and allowed him to craft his iconic, memorable auditions that led to roles on shows like 'Monk' and 'CSI Cyber.' Allen also discusses his experience working in Asia as a series regular on Tou Du (Wei Xian lu Cheng) and what he’s hoping for in the future. If you’ve been looking for motivation to keep going and remain resilient, this is the episode for you.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Allen00:24 Early Acting Struggles and Auditions 01:15 Breakthrough and Career Milestones 02:04 Challenges and Learning in Acting Classes 06:04 Memorable Audition Stories 07:29 Dealing with Rejection and Staying Active 10:58 Script Analysis and Preparation Techniques 20:17 On-Set Experiences and Networking24:09 Reflecting on Early Career Experiences 24:25 Navigating the One-Hour Drama Auditions 25:43 Transitioning to Acting in Asia 27:36 Challenges and Successes in China28:37 Returning to the US and Building Connections 31:06 Aspirations for a Series Regular Role 33:41 Exploring Different Genres and Roles 34:25 Portraying My Grandfather 36:40 Representation and Diversity in Acting 41:30 The Art of Self-Taping 43:44 Inside the Actor's Studio QuestionsEPISODE LINKS:· Allen’s IMDb· Follow Allen on IG @theosky8Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

Audrey Helps Actors meets the Working Actor Podcast. This week actress Audrey Moore takes a look back on her career, how she navigates acting as a lifestyle, and the magical thinking to burnout loop that every actor faces. As she and host Colleen Foy  dive into the intricacies of Audrey's career and her experiences in the acting industry, they discuss what it was like to being Emmy-nominated to the daily realities and challenges actors face. Audrey shares valuable insights into the audition process, leveraging relationships in the industry, and managing the highs and lows of the profession. You will leave this episode knowing the importance of sustaining your  passion, dealing with rejection, and navigating the fine line between fantasy and reality throughout your entire career. 00:00 — Introduction and Welcoming Audrey 00:45 — Audrey's Emmy Experience 04:54 — Audition Stories and Acting Insights 11:38 — The Reality of Acting Careers 17:54 — Magical Thinking to Burnout 26:35 — The “Fantasy of the Dress” Metaphor27:10 — The Reality Check 27:35 — Emotional Experiences and Self-Worth 28:47 — Magical Thinking in Careers 29:57 — Live Tweeting and Fan Connection 30:53 — Navigating Industry Expectations 35:03 — The Green Light Game 39:58 — Career Levels and Networking 43:40 — Balancing Information and Burnout 44:20 — Maintaining Relationships with Reps 50:47 — Final Thoughts and GratitudeEPISODE LINKS:· Listen to the Audrey Helps Actors Podcast· Audrey Moore’s IMDb· Follow Audrey on IG @audreyscoresmoore· Follow the Audrey Helps Actors IG @audreyhelpsactorspodcast· The Audrey Helps Actors WebsiteHost: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

In this episode, host Colleen Foy interviews television director April Winney, discussing her career trajectory from theater to becoming a sought-after director known for her rapport with actors. They delve into April's isolated upbringing in the Sequoia National Forest, her shift from acting to directing in college, and her pivotal years in Chicago's theater scene. April shares her journey into film and TV, working as a script supervisor for 15 years, and eventually directing for shows like 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D' and ‘Tracker’. They also explore her experiences in casting, the importance of authenticity in auditions, and navigating the challenges of directing. April's passion for mentoring actors and teaching them how to excel as guest stars on TV sets highlights her commitment to the craft and her supportive nature.  00:00 — Introduction and Celebrity Doppelgangers 01:10 — Growing Up in Sequoia National Forest 03:27 — Journey to Becoming a Director 04:18 — From Theater to Film and TV 05:01 — Learning on the Job: Script Supervisor to Director 09:24 — Breaking into TV Directing 10:34 — Directing on Different Shows 10:49 — The ABC Disney Program and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 13:16 — Directing on Tracker and Location Scouting 19:02 — Teaching Guest Stars: Workshops and Classes 25:55 — Technical Tips for Actors 26:44 — Respect and Challenges for Actors 27:31 — Casting Decisions and Positivity 29:23 — The Casting Process 31:43 — What Directors Look for in Self-Tapes 34:12 — The Importance of Slates 42:52 — Balancing Emotions in Performances 46:46 — Maintaining Well-being During Shoots48:14 — Navigating Industry Changes 49:57 — Final Thoughts and Upcoming ClassesEPISODE LINKS:· Aprill Winney IMDb· Follow Aprill on IG @aprillwinney· Acting with the Director with Aprill WinneyHost: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Rigging the System in Your Favor: An Actor's Journey with DaJuan JohnsonHost Colleen Foy and guest DaJuan Johnson reconnect on this episode, taking us through DeJuan’s journey as an actor in Los Angeles. Together, they reflect on his 15-year career from his humble beginnings in theater to notable TV roles on Bosch, Grey’s Anatomy, and NCIS. DaJuan gets candid about his struggles in the industry and gives advice on how to navigate the ups and downs of being an actor by rigging the system in your favor, the importance of mindset, and strategies for lifelong success. From his Emmy campaign to making an impression with cookies, this conversation will leave you encouraged in getting to exactly where you want to be in your career. 00:00 — Introduction and Welcoming DaJuan Johnson00:11 — Reflecting on 15 Years of Friendship00:17 — DaJuan’s Journey to Los Angeles00:36 — Early Struggles and Realizations01:38 — Finding Seriousness in Acting03:02 — Meeting and Learning from Stan04:37 — Booking the First Role08:59 — The Impact of Bosch on DaJuan’s Career16:31 — The Importance of Mindset and Coaching19:17 — Navigating the Modern Acting Industry27:40 — Embracing Uncertainty and Self-Care28:13 — The Reality of Talent and Persistence29:21 — Mindset and Personal Growth29:54 — Navigating the Acting Industry31:18 — Rigging the System in Your Favor32:42 — The Emmy Campaign Journey33:58 — The Importance of Visibility42:52 — Auditioning and Building Relationships45:16 — Holding the Vision, Not the Circumstance50:05 — Validation and Self-Worth54:53 — Final Reflections and AdviceEPISODE LINKS:· Follow DaJuan on IG @dajuanjohnson· DaJuan’s IMDb· DaJuan’s Website· Listen to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast· Think Bigger Coaching· DaJuan’s Resources· Dajuan’s YouTubeHost: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Actress, producer, and overall superstar Britney Young shares her journey from Tokyo to America, graduating from USC's School of Cinematic Arts, and establishing herself in Hollywood. Britney candidly discusses her behind-the-scenes roles on TV shows like 'The Mentalist' and 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,' and her big break as Carmen Wade on Netflix's ‘GLOW.' She highlights the importance of community, learning the industry, and not  sweating the small stuff. Host and Britney’s coach here at SKS, Brock Ciarlelli, delves into Brittany's transition from production to acting, her experiences working on GLOW,' and her mindset through career ups and downs. They also explore her return to acting classes at Stan Kirsch Studios to refine her skills, the supportive network it provided, and what her life has been life after wrapping a series regular role. You will walk away with a sense of how persistence, authenticity, and genuine connections are crucial in navigating the acting industry.00:00 — Introduction to Brittany Young00:28 — Early Career and Transition to Acting02:28 — Behind the Scenes Experience10:40 — The Glow Audition Story18:05 — Life After Glow23:04 — Joining SKS Studio26:32 — Booking and Specificity26:39 — Comedy Week and Typos27:58 — Day-to-Day Life of an Actor28:49 — Navigating the Industry33:32 — Audition Process and Challenges36:31 — Preparation and Mindset43:04 — Rejection and Authenticity44:12— Rapid-Fire Questions47:33 — Instagram StoriesEPISODE LINKS:· Follow Britney on IG @britneyyoung· Listen to Britney and her sister talk movies on the Movie Night Podcast· Britney’s IMDbHost: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

You may know Brock Ciarlelli from his work on iconic projects like ABC’s The Middle,  Universal Pictures’ BROS, Netflix’s Glamorous, and Hulu’s Dr. Odyssey or from working with him in class. Whether he’s mentoring, acting, writing, or producing, Brock has had quite the journey in Hollywood. In this episode, host Colleen Foy gets into all of the twists and turns in Brock’s journey. They delve into what it was like for Brock to grow  up in Colorado and then to book his recurring role on ABC's 'The Middle' while still in high school. They discuss his academic background in mathematics, his industry internships, and his multi-faceted career. The conversation highlights the non-linear path of the acting industry, the importance of perseverance, and the lessons they've both learned along the way. Brock and Colleen also touch on the significance of proactivity, maintaining an your abundance mindset amidst the industry's highs and lows, and the value of genuine connections and humility on set. 00:00 — Introduction and Guest Welcome00:49 — Brock's Early Life and Career Beginnings02:38 — Landing the Role on 'The Middle'08:03 — Navigating the Acting Industry18:12 — The Journey of 'Susu in the City'20:49 — Managing Emotions in the Industry26:10 — Diversifying in the Entertainment Industry28:57 — Learning from Industry Insights30:31 — Balancing Boldness in Auditions30:50 — Research and Preparation35:11 — Navigating Set Dynamics39:47 — Proactivity and Self-Reflection40:45 — Personal Insights and Reflections43:14 — Favorite Words and Pet Peeves45:43 — Creative Turn-Ons and Turn-Offs50:03 — Dream Jobs and Least Favorite Jobs52:09 — Final Thoughts and GratitudeEPISODE LINKS:· Brock’s IMDb· Follow Brock on IG @brockciarlelli· Listen to Brock’s podcast “Middling with Eden and Brock”Host: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Unlocking Social Media Success for Actors with Heidi DeanIn this episode, we sit down with Heidi Dean, a social media strategist for actors and the author of 'Social Media for Actors: 100 Essential Tips to Grow, Thrive, and Survive Online.' Heidi shares her journey from a 20-year acting career to becoming the go-to expert for actors navigating social media. She offers invaluable insights on leveraging social media for career growth, including the importance of building relationships, defining your story, and finding the right platform. This episode is packed with practical tips and strategies tailored for actors who want to use social media effectively without being overwhelmed! If you’ve been feeling resistance in starting a social media, you will walk away from this episode with tangible tips on presenting yourself the way you want to be seen online in a posting schedule that is sustainable for you!WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR:00:00 Introduction to Heidi Dean00:46 Heidi's Journey from Actor to Social Media Strategist03:40 The Importance of Social Media for Actors05:46 Building Relationships Through Social Media08:35 Finding Your Unique Social Media Voice14:02 Choosing the Right Social Media Platform19:33 Consistency and Content Planning20:08 The Myth of Consistency in Social Media21:09 Finding Your Posting Rhythm22:37 Experimenting with Posting Frequency23:20 Balancing Social Media and Life25:39 The Importance of Branding and Design28:24 Common Social Media Mistakes Actors Make29:30 Building Genuine Connections Online32:11 The Value of Followers and Engagement37:06 Resources for Actors on Social Media38:36 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEPISODE LINKS:· Read “Social Media for Actors: 100 Essential Tips to Grow, Thrive and Survive Online” by Heidi Dean· Follow Heidi on IG @marketingforactors· Heidi’s Links· 30 Days of Post Ideas· Marketing 4 Actors· Mojo App· CanvaHost: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Host Colleen Foy speaks with her talent manager Paulo Andres about his 23-year career in the industry. They delve into Paulo's journey from aspiring actor to successful manager, highlighting the transition and his dedication to his clients. Paulo shares why he signed Colleen, what stands out in submissions, how to find joy in the industry, and why he believes all actors need to pursue their career full-time. From personal anecdotes from his time as an actor to discussing how he approaches manages his clients, Paulo shares how he has adapted to the changes in the business over the years and the importance of perseverance. This episode is a valuable resource for everyone who is looking for a rep, and for all those looking for the motivation to keep going.  00:00 — Introduction and Background00:26 — Early Career Struggles 01:36 — Finding the Right Manager 02:29 — Building a Career in Acting 03:00 — The Importance of Hard Work and Persistence 04:26 — Navigating the Industry 05:55 — The Role of a Manager 08:09 — Personalized Client Management 10:35 — Challenges and Insights 23:53 — Pitching and Networking 25:48 — Crafting Effective Pitches 26:18 — The Role of a Manager 26:44 — The Importance of Submissions 27:41 — Challenges in the Industry 29:47 — Self-Tapes and Auditions 38:51 — Adapting to Industry Changes 42:24 — Maintaining Creativity and Community 45:36 — The Blank Theater Involvement 49:45 — Navigating Representation Challenges 56:17 — The Personal Side of ManagementEPISODE LINKS:· Follow Paulo on Instagram @thepaoloandres· Paulo’s IMDb Pro· The Blank Theater· Follow The Blank Theater on Instagram @theblanktheaterHost: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

When your world crashes down around you, how do you continue moving on? In 2015, Maryam Myika Day welcomed her daughter Ayodélé Olayinka into the world and said goodbye to her husband. Through that joy and grief came a reckoning and realization of who she wanted to be as an artist going forward in her life, and she reexamined the ways her art could reach others. Maryam shares her inspiring journey from a young dancer in prominent dance companies like the Dance Theatre of Harlem and Broadway's '42nd Street,' to becoming an award-winning filmmaker and screenwriter. Maryam talks about the founding of her production company, Epiphany 3 Films, to create opportunities for herself and others, and her impactful work in film and digital media. She also delves into her personal life, sharing the profound challenges she faced and how these experiences fueled her artistic and professional growth. One way she channeled her grief into action was by writing a book with her daughter, “This is My Story”, that talks about her husband’s passing, what he left behind, and all the ways he is remembered. She also speaks on the importance of mentorship, and her passion for teaching writing and empowering other artists to take a chance on themselves because we just don’t have the time. This episode is a testament to resilience, the power of storytelling, and the importance of investing in yourself. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Introduction and Guest Background 00:26 — Early Career in Dance 01:15 — From Broadway to Film 02:56 — Founding Epiphany 3 Films 05:25 — Mentorship and Skill Development 17:37 — Personal Challenges and Triumphs 28:29 — A Moment of Realization 28:48 — Turning Grief into Strength 28:55 — A New Beginning in 2016 29:07 — Using Life's Challenges as Fuel 29:34 — Gratitude Amidst Loss 30:07 — A Mother's Determination 31:12 — Writing a Book Together 31:44 — The Journey of Healing 32:32 — Empowering Through Storytelling 34:14 — From Book to Animated Series 34:55 — Teaching Others to Write 38:41 — The Importance of Mentorship 47:01 — Astrology and Life's Path 52:51 — Final Reflections and Gratitude EPISODE LINKS: · Read “This is My Story” by Ayodélé Olayinka · Ayodélé’s Website · Get into “THE WORKSHOP: How to create and sell your own children's book” · Maryam’s IMDb · Maryam’s Website · Follow Maryam on IG · Follow the North of 40 Podcast on IG · The North of 40 Podcast Links Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Today we have on acting coach extraordinaire, the woman you want to be in a Career Corner with, and accomplished actor/writer/producer/ray of sunshine Angela Fornero. A seasoned actress and business-minded coach, we dive into her journey in the acting industry. Angela shares her extensive experience, from growing up in Los Angeles to becoming an integral part of Stan Kirsch Studios. She explains how she uses her practical knowledge from internships and various roles in crafting individualized career plans for actors. Angela discusses the challenges, mindset, and business acumen required to succeed in a competitive industry, emphasizing the importance of continual learning, self-production, and strategic marketing. Her insights provide valuable guidance for actors at all stages of their careers. This is an episode you definitely do not want to miss! WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Introduction to Angela Fornero 01:09 — Angela's Early Life and Background 02:39 — Journey into Acting 04:18 — Navigating the Acting Industry 07:43 — Joining Stan Kirsch Studio 10:44 — Angela’s Career Corner and Business Insights 12:29 — Interning in Casting and Talent Agencies 17:23 — Personalized Career Guidance 20:53 — Personal Insights and Experiences 21:16 — Understanding the Industry's Challenges 25:15 — The Importance of Mindset and Hope 25:57 — Actionable Steps for Career Growth 26:33 — Creating Effective Demo Reels 31:15 — Navigating Self-Tapes and Footage 36:16 — Headshots and Personal Branding 39:35 — The Power of Self-Producing and Social Media 42:20 — Gratitude and Final Thoughts EPISODE LINKS: · Book a Career Consult with Angela today!  · Angela’s Website  · Angela’s IMDb · Follow Angela on IG · Buckley Samspon Stylist · Amy Lyndon’s Coaching · Bonnie Gillespie’s Self Management for Actors  · Mentor Kevin E. West  Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

How do you enjoy the journey of being an actor? How do you stand up for yourself on set? How do you find your actor niche? Leonard Wu comes on the podcast to reunite with his former acting classmate Colleen Foy to talk about his journey and everything that he has experienced. From ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ to ‘Ghost of Tsushima’ and ‘American Born Chinese’, Leonard shares his journey from growing up in Washington D.C., studying Chinese Peking Opera, to pursuing a career in Hollywood. He discusses his initial struggles, why he has always had a day job, his breakthrough on 'Veronica Mars,' and pivotal roles in projects like 'Revenge of the Green Dragons' and 'Marco Polo.' He also takes us through the process of preparing for an action-heavy role, and learning to champion his interpretation of his characters on projects. Wu also gets real about the impact of his cultural identity on his career, the challenges Asian-American actors face, and the importance of being prepared in the ever-evolving entertainment industry.  WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Introducing Leonard Wu 00:23 — Early Life and Education 01:43 — College Years and Early Career 03:28 — Breaking into the Industry 04:41— First Big Break and Challenges 05:59 — Navigating the Acting World 07:05 — Theater and Day Jobs 07:45 — Major Roles and Opportunities 15:40 — Training and Preparation 21:33 — Navigating Creative Collaboration 22:16 — Reflecting on Career Challenges 23:12 — The Rise and Fall of Marco Polo 25:41 — Adapting to Industry Changes 29:09 — Embracing Theater and New Opportunities 35:12 — Experiences on Grey's Anatomy 39:25 — Future Aspirations and Reflections 40:03 — Inside the SKS Studio Questions EPISODE LINKS: · Leonard’s IMDb · Follow Leonard on IG @iamleonardwu Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

We’ve all felt how the acting industry has changed over the last few years. Even more than before, our individual journeys as actors show how there is no right path. This week, we are joined by ‘Fresh Off the Boat’ star Chelsey Crisp. Chelsey shares how a co-star role that she almost turned down, led her to her first series regular role on a hit show that lasted 6 seasons. She shows us a peek into her perspective on the casting process and bookings, and what she looks forward to in the next era of Hollywood. You’ll learn about Chelsey’s origin story, starting from her moving to LA at 18 to study theater, to navigating early career challenges, and finding her voice in comedy. You’ll hear firsthand about the importance of embracing one's unique path, the value of specific training and branding, and tips on navigating this ever changing industry. Chelsey also gets candid about dealing with the emotional highs and lows of auditioning, and how beneficial having that one good cry can be. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of resilience, passion for when that perfect role finds its way to you, and comfort in knowing we are all pursuing our acting dreams together. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Introduction and Origin Stories 00:39 — Early Life and Theater Beginnings 01:17 — Academy Experience and Moving to LA 02:05 — Navigating Early Career Challenges 03:34 — Improv and Finding a Niche in Comedy 09:07 — Breakthrough Roles and Career Milestones 13:42 — Reflections on Industry and Personal Growth 17:30 — Transitioning to New Opportunities 19:14 — Landing a Series Regular Role 22:36 — Balancing Career and Personal Life 18:35 — Fresh Off the Boat and Call My Agent 26:47 — The Audition Process 30:21 — Navigating the Casting World 37:57 — The Impact of Industry Changes 46:37 — Inside the SKS Studio Questions EPISODE LINKS: · Follow Chelsey on IG @chelseycrisp · Chelsey’s IMDb · Chelsey’s Website Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Tiffany Daniels discusses her multifaceted career in the entertainment industry with host Colleen. Known for her role in 'That Girl Lele,' Tiffany shares insights on her early career, including her prestigious year-long scholarship at the Edge Performing Arts Center and the challenges she faced balancing rigorous training with a full-time job. She takes us through her transition from dancing to becoming a Laker and Charger girl, before moving into acting roles across genres. Whether you've seen her as a series regular on 'That Girl Lay Lay', 'NCIS,' 'Big Bang Theory,' Josephine Baker in 'Timeless', or  'Station 19’, Tiffany is an unstoppable force to be reckoned with. You will learn just how important confidence, adaptability, and collaboration are throughout your acting career, and how you should always go after your dream.WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR:00:00 — Introducing Tiffany Daniels00:46 — Early Career and Dance Training03:30 — Breaking into the Industry07:14 — Becoming a Laker Girl12:31 — Joining SKS & The Value of Comedy Training15:16 — Portraying Josephine Baker19:37 — The Impact of a Juicy Role20:41 — Defining a Triple Threat21:36 — That One Where Colleen and Tiffany almost Worked Together22:25 — The Intensity of TV Roles22:40 — Auditioning Under Pressure25:26 — Staying in Character28:06 — Landing 'That Girl Lele'34:07 — Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere as Adults for Kid Actors35:01— Inside the Stan Kirsch StudioEPISODE LINKS:· Follow Tiffany Daniels on IG @itsmetiffd· Tiffany’s Website· Tiffany’s IMDb· Tiffany’s Links· Watch “Pieces of a Woman”Host: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

There is no “one path” to becoming a working actor. No one knows that better than Kate Mansi,  who transitioned from having a dance scholarship to pursuing acting at Pepperdine University. She walks us through how her life changed when she found her passion and what she did to take care of herself as she pursued her dream. From the ups and downs that came with auditioning, to finding a mentor in Stan, to battling imposter syndrome, Kate shares how she booked the iconic role of Abigail on “Days of Our Lives” and all that came after. She shares her mental health struggles and caring for herself in a consistently high-stress environment that came to a peak during 2020 when she had to fight for her healthcare. We also get a glance at Kate’s future, as she starts directing and working with the nonprofit organization The Artemis Agency. Kate’s commitment to self-exploration and her craft will leave you inspired, and with a better grasp of what life is like after landing a role that defines your career.  WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 01:31 — Katie's Early Life and Dance Background 03:04 — Transition to Acting 03:49 — College Years and Early Acting Gigs 05:34 — Booking 'Days of Our Lives' 07:19 — Challenges and Perseverance 17:13 — Winning the Emmy and Health Struggles 24:20 — Healthcare System Challenges 25:31 — Balancing Daytime Pressures 26:38 — The Importance of Asking Questions 27:25 — Overcoming People-Pleasing Behavior 28:55 — Helping Ourselves 32:07 — Embracing Authenticity in Acting 33:55 — The Journey to Casa Grande 41:16 — The Impact of COVID on Self-Tapes 43:44 — Future Aspirations and Directing 45:51 — Reflecting on Acting and Life 47:26 — Inside the Actor's Studio Questions EPISODE LINKS: · Follow Kate Mansi on IG  · Kate’s Store · Kate’s IMDb · The Artemis Agency  Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Who knew that wanting to f*** Ray Bradbury would get you into Hollywood’s most coveted rooms? A Tisch graduate, actor and writer Rachel Bloom shares her journey in the entertainment industry, reflecting on her early career milestones, including how she got her SAG card through various voiceover and commercial gigs. She and Colleen talk about  transitioning from a musical theater program to on-camera acting, and how early struggles with auditioning and agency interviews led to her first representation through a connection at the Upright Citizens Brigade. Rachel gets real about her nontraditional career path, and how one music video changed the trajectory of her career and led her to create shows like “Crazy Ex Girlfriend”, which earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress. She talks about the challenges and realizations in auditioning, the importance of being true to oneself in the industry, and gives a sneak peak into her upcoming guest star role on Frasier Season 2 Episode 5 (airing Oct 10th) and her Netflix special, 'Death Let Me Do My Show’ (which drops on Oct 15). You will leave this episode inspired to embrace your own unique path in this industry, and that fart jokes are always funny.  WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Rachel's Journey to Getting Her SAG Card 03:07 — Early Career Struggles and First Reps 05:41 — Breakthrough with Viral Music Video and “Crazy Ex Girlfriend” 07:37 — Auditioning Insights and Techniques 17:59 — Creating and Collaborating in Comedy 20:45 — The Humbling Experience of Acting Classes 21:16 — “Reboot” and the Art of Comedy 21:59 — The Challenges of TV Show Cancellations 22:57 — Improvisation and Scripted Comedy 25:32 — Filming in Front of a Live Studio Audience for “Frasier” 28:44 — The Journey of Creating a Netflix Special 33:04 — Breathing Techniques and Acting Tips 35:22 — Inside the Actor's Studio: 10 Questions 37:30 — Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects Connect with Rachel Bloom:  · Rachel’s IG @racheldoesstuff · Rachel’s Links  · Rachel’s Website · Rachel’s IMDb EPISODE LINKS: · Upright Citizens Brigade · The Barrow Group · Crazy Ex Girlfriend · Reboot · Frasier  · Caitlin Reilly  · Watch “F*** Me, Ray Bradbury”  Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

In this episode, Gabe Gibbs discusses his path from Detroit to Los Angeles, starting with a successful end to his college career at Emerson. We talk about how Gabe booked a Subway commercial and a small movie role in the same week, which motivated him to move to LA. He shares experiences from his three years performing in 'The Book of Mormon,' the challenges of transitioning to LA after the Broadway grind, and the importance of constant preparation in class and staying creative. Gabe also elaborates on the value of creating content and utilizing social media to enhance his acting career, providing insights into balancing various aspects of a creative life. We even ask Gabe ten questions in our own SKS version of “'Inside the Actors Studio”, and it will leave you inspired to continue the work, and maybe build a canoe. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR: 00:00 — Introduction and Early Career Beginnings 00:09 — First Big Break and Moving to LA 01:15 — Book of Mormon and Return to LA 02:46 — Adjusting to LA and Finding Creative Outlets 04:04 — Joining the Acting Studio 06:11 — Navigating the Acting Industry 11:01 — Importance of Preparation in Acting 19:07 — Understanding TV and Film Auditions 25:02 — The Canoe Story 25:17 — Christian's TV Episode Experience 26:34 — Lessons from Early Career Disappointments 27:16 — Dream Stacking and Managing Expectations 28:47 — The Actor's Journey 30:23 — Creating Your Own Show 33:34 — Inside the Actor's Studio Questions 36:44 — Conclusion and Farewell ·EPISODE LINKS: · Follow Gabe Gibbs on IG @gabegibbs  · Gabe Gibbs’ Tour Dates  · Gabe Gibbs Website · Gabe Gibbs IMDb · “Tumbledown” (2015) · CBS News Article “Subway: No more "yoga mat" chemical in our bread” · Gabe Gibbs and AJ Michalka in “Schooled” · “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992) · “There Will Be Blood” (2007) · James Lipton’s “Inside the Actors Studio” Host: Colleen Foy Producer: Kristyn Daniel Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing ________________ Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here. Catch up on the podcast here. Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios

This week we sit down with SKS alum, actor Christine Ko. She walks us through her entire career. From moving to LA not even knowing what an audition is, to booking her first series regular role on a multi-cam sitcom. She tells us how SKS changed her life and set her career in motion, how drawing penises helped her book a lead role on the FX hit series DAVE, the importance of preparation and NEVER talking herself out of a role.WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT THE HEAR::19 Christine’s origin story and what led her to acting.2:41 How the SKS Audition Bootcamp changed her life and set her career in motion.8:15 Getting he audition for DAVE (FKA UNT LITTLE DICKIE PROJECT), feeling like she wasn’t right for the role, but doing her research, finding her own version of the character and going for it!14:22 Improv and drawing penises (yes, you read that right) during her Chemistry Read for Dave. “I don’t think I’m right for this anyway, so let’s just make a mess of it”. Spoiler alert: She booked the role!17:37 There is no right way to do this. This business is not linear.21:36 How Christine takes care of herself when things are slow.24:25 Christine’s audition prep process. The first email gives you SO much information – DO. YOUR. RESEARCH.31:50 Acting is so different than the BUSINESS of acting.34:50 The full audition process of her first series regular role on THE HALF OF IT (directed by legendary comedy director, James Burrows).44:56 “for a multi-cam, when you are reading it in front of the network, you NEED to say the line correctly. You don’t add an extra beat. You don’t add an extra word. Every single ‘the’, every single ‘uh’, is for a tone, a cadence.”48:09 “I’m gonna go for it. If I mess up, I mess up, but at least I know that I prepped for it”51:24 Be the CEO of your acting business.54:57 The audition process for Handmaid’s Tale, and how it was on the set of Handmaid’s.57:23 Working with Elizabeth Moss, and not being afraid as for what you need as an actor on set.58:04 What Christine takes with her on set: from her trailer, to base camp.59:14 What Christine does the night before filming.1:00 What advice would Christine give actors to let go after they send their self-tape in.Host: Colleen FoyEditor: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

SKS Faculty Real Talk Roundtable, the entire faculty comes together to talk about all things industry. CEO Kristyn, Studio Director Colleen, and actors and coaches Aleks, Angela, and Brock come together to discuss their experiences and offer guidance to the SKS community. They talk about the challenging start to the year with the LA wildfires, strikes, and how to navigate life when you still need to show up for auditions and opportunities with full dedication. They touch on a wide range of subjects including the craft of acting, audition preparation, overcoming personal obstacles, and maintaining a positive mindset. They also reflect on their transitions from students to teachers and the evolving dynamics of the industry while retaining the core values of the Stan Kirsch Studios community. The episode highlights the shared passion, resilience, and mutual support among actors everywhere right now. Success is infectious!WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR:00:00 — Introduction & Acknowledgements00:26 — Navigating Challenges in 202502:02 — Audition Anecdotes and Techniques03:49 — Reflections and Lessons from 202414:05 — Setting Intentions for 202520:12 — Audition Preparation Strategies39:21 — The Challenges of Self-Taping39:49 — Understanding the Scene's Context41:34 — The Importance of Repetition and Practice42:05 — Collaborative Coaching and Instincts43:18 — Adapting to Audition Requirements45:29 — The Role of Specificity in Acting01:01:21 — The Journey from Student to Teacher01:11:51 — Continuing the Legacy of SKS Studios01:14:41 — Community and Support in ActingEPISODE LINKS:· Learn More about Our Teachers Here· Follow Colleen @colleenfoy· Follow Aleks @iamaleksristic· Follow Angela @angefornero· Follow Brock @brockciarlelli· Follow Kristyn @kristyndaniel· Abundance Bound· Think Bigger Coaching with DaJuan Johnson· The Cold Read App Host: Colleen FoyProducer: Kristyn DanielMusic by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing________________Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.Catch up on the podcast here.Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios