
Brian Breaks Character
140 episodes — Page 3 of 3
#39 Mia proves that agents aren't worried about your credits half as much as you are
bonusMia is a classically trained theatre actor who is now going to Juilliard. But before that, she was working tirelessly to break into the world of film and TV. Her lack of materials to submit to reps, made her feel as if she was never truly "in the game". Then, while going through the process of reaching out to reps and learning to own where she was at this stage in her career, Mia was thrown yet another curveball and was accepted into Juilliard for grad school. Navigating her conversations with reps around this topic of potentially leaving the audition pool for quite a few years turned out to be yet another layer in what made her unique! CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS You DO NOT NEED TV credits to get in the door with managers and agents Mia's theatre training had her focused on "range", but figuring out her personal unique story was actually the gift that changed it all How early in your career, rep meetings can leave a scar on your actor-soul Finding confidence in who you are and what you bring to the table can help you find a long-term partner With this How They Did It series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Mia Instagram https://www.instagram.com/miawurgaft/ Subscribe To The Podcast https://plinkhq.com/i/1570747490?to=page Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.++Mia+Wurgaft+-+Transcript.pdf
#38 No-Sweat Social Media Strategies with the Queen Heidi Dean
Have you ever worried about what to post on social media? Well, Heidi Dean of Marketing4Actors clears this up for us on today's episode. And whether you're a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker, her advice will empower you to actually make an impact (and worthwhile connections!) on social media. {I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated by the awesomeness of this guest. But, guess what…. She gave me an A+ on my IG captions. Hey now! This means a lot coming from this Social Media Queen!} In this episode, Heidi teaches a three-part framework (you know I love one of those!) that will help you NAIL what to include (and what not to!) in your next post. But she doesn't stop there... HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS How to put the ME in your social MEdia You are so much more than the gigs you book... so post like it! Why your engagement will only go up if you use your platform like a telephone, not a megaphone How to measure engagement BEYOND LIKES AND FOLLOWS Why the magic lies in focusing on Connection Not Perfection Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH HEIDI Instagram https://www.instagram.com/marketing4actors/ Website www.marketing4actors.com Checklist for Actors https://marketing4actors.com/ebook/ Subscribe To The Podcast https://plinkhq.com/i/1570747490?to=page Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP24+-+Heidi+Dean+-+Transcript.pdf
#37 Showrunner Paul Witten's Road to the Emmys was Paved with NOs
In this episode of Brian Breaks Character, Showrunner, Creator, and Actor, Paul Witten gives us a MASTERCLASS in putting yourself out there! I brought him on the show so you can see how relentless creativity (and not taking NO for answer) reallllllly pays off! Paul is the creator and showrunner of Dropping the Soap starring Jane Lynch. And Jane WON the Emmy Award for her role on his show. But it wasn't all rainbows, lollipops, and big-name comedians… Paul heard NO a lot, but instead of letting the NOs bring him down, he transformed them into finding the right community of artists and supporters for his projects. What I love about Paul (and I know you will too!) is that he leads with kindness. In this episode, Paul explains how he surrounded himself with like-minded individuals who wanted to get on board with his project because of HIS story and then was able to make his show happen WITHOUT ONE OUNCE OF CROWDFUNDING. He tells us how there are no rules in this business (you there in the back row, did you hear that?!?) and why vulnerability is the key to getting people to believe in (and invest in!) your projects.And beyond all that, Paul is a joy to talk to and I can't wait to introduce you to him. Paul is an inspiration and I hope that you learn as much as I did from this episode.TAKEAWAYS The power of NO and what you can learn from it Tell your personal stories and allow yourself to be vulnerable - That is how to get someone to be a part of your project Know your boundaries as an artist and what you need to protect and take care of yourself There are no rules Paul Witten is an actor/writer/producer. He recently had the pleasure of shooting "The Comeback Trail", a feature film working alongside Robert DeNiro, Tommy Lee Jones, Morgan Freeman and Zach Braff, as well as a recent guest spot on Brooklyn 99. He also had a recurring role in the multiple award winning Apple+ series "The Morning Show", with Jennifer Aniston. Additionally, Paul created, co-wrote and stars opposite Jane Lynch in the Emmy winning comedy series, "Dropping The Soap", currently available on Amazon. Paul's most recent short film, "A Play", which he produced, co-wrote and stars in, is currently running the festival circuit having won numerous festival awards. Paul also just penned a half hour comedy pilot, "You Are Here", which he will begin pitching soon. Favorite Los Angeles theatre credits include; "The Goat Or, Who Is Sylvia" (Best Actor nominee, Ovation Awards), "The Woman In Black" (Best Actor nominee; LA Drama Critics Circle and Ovation Awards/ LA premiere); "The Brothers Karamazov" (Best Ensemble LA Drama Critics Circle, LA premiere). Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH PAUL Instagram https://www.instagram.com/paul_witten/ Dropping the Soap on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Dropping-the-Soap/dp/B06XHZQ3HD Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP23+Paul+Witten+-+Transcript.pdf
#36 How Angel started her 3rd act with 14 offers for representation
bonusAngel hit LA running back in the day. She landed reps fast and worked until... she realized she had no idea how to keep things going and she ultimately got burned out. After taking a 12-year hiatus from the biz to work as an elementary school teacher, Angel realized she still had an actor itch to scratch… except she had no idea how to get back into things, how to submit to reps, or how to translate her years of experience and wisdom into meetings and finding her team. Now after 15 meetings and 14 (!!) offers for representation, Angel is flying high and taking on the business with a whole new outlook in her self-proclaimed "3rd act"! CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS VO, TV, whatever: Agents aren't worried about your credits half as much as you are How Angel created an actor accountability group and how it keeps her motivated The challenge of deciding amongst multiple offers How prayer was her big guidance in her process and her life What it really means to be a "good client" for your reps With this How They Did It series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Angel Website https://www.heavensentproductions.org/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Angel+Harper+-+Transcript.pdf
#35 Why the YES Vote Matters – An IATSE Member Tells Her Story
IATSE voted 99% YES to authorize a strike. And because union negotiations can be reduced to just that... "negotiations," it was important to us on the show to put the focus on exactly what we are actually talking about here: Human beings' well-being on set and in life. So, on this episode of Brian Breaks Character, my guest is IATSE crew member Heather Fink. She works as a Boom Operator and Sound Utility and she joined me not as a formal representative of IATSE, but as a human being in the industry. In this intimate conversation, Heather openly shares her real-life experience as a "below the line" creative as we stare down this strike. IATSE is asking for better pay for streaming service work; higher wages for coordinators and assistants on all productions; longer rest periods between shifts and on weekends; and strengthened requirements for meal breaks during marathon shoots. So to be clear, it's not about pointing at "one bad person" it's about revolutionizing an industry that can too often make *the bottom line* more important than human experience.WHICH IS LITERALLY INSANE SINCE FILM AND TV-MAKING IS STORYTELLING … and storytelling EXISTS to connect us as humans. In this episode, I put on my novice hat so I could ask Heather ALLLL the questions you might need to know about WHY this is so important and you'll learn precisely WHY as a fellow creative you'll want to take a stand with IATSE.This episode is dedicated to all the members of IATSE. We stand with humanizing this business. We stand with IATSE. TAKEAWAYS IATSE crew is the engine that runs everything on a Film/TV set How the @ia_stories Instagram Account helped Heather to take a pause and realize that after 11 years of working on film crews that it's not normal nor is it OK the conditions that IATSE crew members have been working under. IATSE has not had a strike since WWII, so over time members have lost things from their contract every time it's been negotiated. The YES vote does not mean there will be a strike, it means that IATSE has authorized a strike and can go back to negotiations with AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) with the hopes that will be enough. Wanna show your support? Sign this Petition to Tell AMPTP to Give Film and Television Workers a Fair Deal - https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-amptp-to-make-a-deal-with-behind-the-scenes-workers Follow IATSE Stories on Instagram to be in the know of what IATSE crew members are asking for and why - https://www.instagram.com/ia_stories/ Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT with Heather Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leatherfink Website https://www.heatherfink.com/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.+22+-+Heather+Fink+-+Transcript.pdf
#34 Get More Auditions with your Casting Profiles – The Megamix
September has been a very busy month in Brian Breaks Character land! We devoted the entire month to helping actors to get more auditions. And we were lucky enough to have some heavy hitters on the show, so we wanna make sure you didn't miss any of the best tips and takeaways! Take a listen to this very special 24 minute megamix from all of our Get More Auditions episodes this month. You'll hear the voices of: Casting Networks' Katie O'Connor and Scott Madej, CastingAbout and Actors Access' Blair Hickey and Brian Wold, and my Actor Happiness Manager, our very own Summer Mastain (she puts ME in the hot seat so you get my take on what you can do TODAY to get more auditions TOMORROW!). TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS Why casting profiles should be a core focus of your acting career All things headshots: How many is too many? How few is not enough? Casting Networks updates and how the update has modernized the platform As I mentioned, these are just some of the juicy takeaways from my September Episodes focused all on getting more auditions and casting profiles… ...but don't think that listening to this gives you the full story – get the full scoop on how to get more auditions by listening to the full episodes here: Casting Networks' Survival Guide with Katie O'Connor & Scott Madej https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/casting-networks-survival-guide-with-katie-oconnor/id1570747490?i=1000536259696 Your Casting Profiles in the Age of Social Distancing with Special Host Summer Mastain https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-casting-profiles-in-the-age-of-social/id1570747490?i=1000535401722 Get More Auditions With These CastingAbout & Actors Access Insider Secrets – Part One https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-more-auditions-with-these-castingabout-actors/id1570747490?i=1000534687669 Get More Auditions With These CastingAbout & Actors Access Insider Secrets – Part Two https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-more-auditions-with-these-castingabout-actors/id1570747490?i=1000535004781 Prepare Ye The Way to Get More Auditions with Special Host Summer Mastain https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prepare-ye-the-way-to-get-more-auditions-with-special/id1570747490?i=1000533974205 Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? www.YourAuditionMagnet.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.21+-+Megamix+-+Transcript.pdf
#33 Casting Networks' Survival Guide with Katie O'Connor & Scott Madej
Any chance you are super freaked out by the Casting Networks' recent update? It was a doozy. And whether or not you think the update is good or bad, it doesn't matter, change can be HARD. So I'm here to help... On this episode of Brian Breaks Character, I sat down with the powers that be from Casting Networks, Katie O'Connor Enterprise Sale Manager for the West Coast and Scott Madej the Manager of Global Talent Support to ask tough questions about the overhaul on their website. In this interview, you'll hear how this big change came about, how much better it is for you, what casting thinks of it all… PLUS you'll pick up some tips for HOW TO MAKE YOUR PROFILE MO' BETTA. HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Don't underestimate the power of your casting profile How to use the CN media bank to your advantage The best way to write your bio Where to focus your energy when you start to work on your *new* profile Work from home advantage: Casting is sometimes seeing up to 30% more actors for a role Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you CONNECT WITH Katie & Scott Instagram https://www.instagram.com/castingnetworks/ Website http://castingnetworks.com/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? www.YourAuditionMagnet.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.+20+-+Katie+O'Connor+%26+Scott+Madej+-+Transcript.pdf
#32 Your Casting Profiles in the Age of Social Distancing with Special Host Summer Mastain
You signed up for Actors Access and Casting Networks… And maybe you've got a Casting Profile on 3 other sites too! Maybe you even have reps submitting you in addition to submitting yourself… And maybe it still feels like you're not getting enough auditions. And the first place you MIGHT look is your headshots… or maybe your reel? Did you ever stop to think that it could be your casting profile? WHAAAAAA?!?!?!? On this episode of Brian Breaks Character, Summer Mastain is back as my Guest Host and she's got me in the hot seat to talk about how the *panorama* means almost all your auditions are self-tapes and your actor business exists almost entirely online (...until you're on set). How do you stand out? I share that you CAN actually data test your casting profile and take action from that place. TAKEAWAYS About 93% of auditions are now self tapes Unless you are offer only - your reps use your casting profiles Your materials are good enough, it's your casting profile that needs the update Now, if you want to learn exactly how to execute this test. I invite you to join me at my totally free, live masterclass for actors who want a clear and easy approach to get auditions. This casting profile test is just one of three things I will be teaching and I just can't wait to share them all with you. There are three dates to choose from: September 16th, 18th or 20th. Registration is now open: https://www.gimmegimmemoreauditions.com/ Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. CONNECT WITH SUMMER Instagram https://www.instagram.com/summer.mastain Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? Get In On This Free Training: https://www.gimmegimmemoreauditions.com/ Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.+19+Summer+Mastain+-+Transcript.pdf
#31 Get More Auditions With These CastingAbout & Actors Access Insider Secrets – Part Two
bonusIf you want to know a verifiable way to get more auditions, grab your notebook for Part Two of my interview with Blair Hickey and Brian Wold, the Co-Founders of CastingAbout and Consultants for Breakdown Services. I locked them in a Zoom room and forced them to tell me ALLLLLL THE INSIDER SECRETS of how actors can make themselves unforgettable on Actors Access… and there were just too many juicy takeaways for one episode. In this episode, we dive deeper into how to create and maintain those strong relationships with casting directors – especially now that those relationships are 90% online. HERE ARE THE TOP 3 INSIDER TAKEAWAYS We all know that "booking the room" is more important than booking the job, but B&B tell us exactly how to use this power to turn into repeat success Why you must tell YOUR story while also serving the story of the script – When you don't do this you leave auditions on the table and stay firmly planted in the callback-only zone Yes, technology has changed the way the industry works, but your job stays the same, so don't fall into the trap of distractions Brian Wold has over three decades of experience in public relations, marketing and business communications. Blair Hickey has been a working actor for almost 30 years (The Big Bang Theory, NCIS: LA, Heroes). Combining their skills and expertise, Blair and Brian created CastingAbout, the online casting and production guide for professional actors. In 2009, CastingAbout was acquired by Breakdown Services, where both continue to work as consultants. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. CONNECT WITH BRIAN & BLAIR Website https://castingabout.com Brian [email protected] Blair [email protected] Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-The-Scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? Get In On This Free Training: https://www.gimmegimmemoreauditions.com/ Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Brian+Wold+%26+Blair+Hickey+-+Transcript.pdf
#30 Get More Auditions with these CastingAbout & Actors Access Insider Secrets - Part One
I'm gonna guess you have an Actors Access/Breakdown Express profile so Casting Directors can find you. And even though the site has *some* free functionality, I'm also gonna guess that you plunk down $68/year (plus any other fees) so you can host your video files and get access to the best auditions out there. YOU AND 1.3 MILLION OTHER ACTORS USE ACTORS ACCESS. I'm sharing that BIG number so you make it a priority to listen to this episode of Brian Breaks Character. Today's guests are Blair Hickey and Brian Wold, the Co-Founders of CastingAbout and Consultants for Breakdown Services… I locked them in a Zoom room and forced them to tell me ALLLLLL THE INSIDER SECRETS of how actors can make themselves unforgettable on Actors Access. And look, you may have heard from them before… but I'm gonna guess that was before 'the panorama' and before 94% of your auditions were self-tapes. So this is brand-new intel that will actually move the dial on getting more auditions in the new normal. HERE ARE THE TOP 5 INSIDER TAKEAWAYS The latest developments regarding virtual auditions and online casting. The realities of how casting directors receive and review submissions (and why some STAND OUT more than others). How to avoid the most common mistakes actors (and sometimes agents) make when submitting. How to turn your online submissions into AUDITIONS. Strategies to create and maintain strong working relationships with the casting community even online. Brian Wold has over 3 decades of experience in public relations, marketing and business communications. Blair Hickey has been a working actor for almost 30 years (The Big Bang Theory, NCIS: LA, Heroes). Combining their skills and expertise, Blair and Brian created CastingAbout, the online casting and production guide for professional actors. In 2009, CastingAbout was acquired by Breakdown Services, where both continue to work as consultants. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. CONNECT WITH BRIAN & BLAIR Website https://castingabout.com Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-The-Scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? Get In On This Free Training: https://www.gimmegimmemoreauditions.com/ Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.18+Brian+Wold+%26+Blair+Hickey+-+Transcript.pdf
#29 Prepare Ye The Way to Get More Auditions with Special Host Summer Mastain
Summer here, I'm Brian's Actor Happiness Manager for this community and we are *really* breaking character over here... I am the Host of today's episode of Brian Breaks Character and Brian is the Guest. On this episode, I grill Brian with the most frequently asked questions about casting profiles: How many headshots do you actually need to have on your online profiles; how do you know which ones to keep and which ones to DELETE; why should I care about any of this? HERE ARE THREE QUICK TAKEAWAYS Why there's a need to focus on getting auditions right now (Ummm… January will be our first pilot season in two years!) Your casting profile is hands down the most important tool to get you auditions and needs constant upkeep whether you have representation or not The power of the delete button and when to use it If you're an actor who struggles to get all the auditions you want, I could use a little help, please complete this survey - https://forms.gle/A5eoVgbL4v5vopVNA to tell me all about YOUR casting profiles! And if you want to get more auditions (and of course you do!) then don't miss a single episode this month cuz that's all we're gonna be talking about... plus it'll all culminate in a FREE hour-long training Brian is designing for you right now. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. CONNECT WITH SUMMER Instagram https://www.instagram.com/summer.mastain Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Videos Of The Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Want More Auditions? Get In On This Free Training: https://www.gimmegimmemoreauditions.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP17+-+Prepare+Ye+The+Way+to+Get+More+Auditions+this+Month+-+Transcript.pdf
#28 Re-Define Success with Casting Director Alaine Alldaffer
The incredibly generous and wholehearted Casting Director Alaine Alldaffer is my guest on today's episode of the Brian Breaks Character podcast. She's been casting theatre and television for over 25 years (peep her impressive bio below). And as a long-time champion for creatives everywhere, Alaine's actionable advice will appeal to you whether you're... ...a butcher ...a baker ...an actor ...a writer ...a director ...or all of the above (...you multi-hyphenate, you!) HERE'S A PEEK AT SOME OF THE JUICY TAKEAWAYS: Why you must define your success by your commitment to the work... that is, ONLY IF you want to have longevity in your career. How to use creativity in your theatre self-tape auditions so you stand out from the crowd (while also not making a fool of yourself) … oh, and the same rules apply for TV/film! How to future-pace your self-care so you're better able to be "onto the next thing" rather than wallow in disappointment. REAL TALK: Alaine's full-time gig is having collaborative conversations with writers, directors, artistic directors, designers, and actors, so don't be fooled by this *feel-good* episode. Alaine outlines a unique insider's take on the way back to live performance and the newest trends in successful self-tape auditions so you can get into those rooms whether you're a writer, a director, an actor, or... oh, you get the picture! Want the full tea on Alaine? Alaine Alldaffer received 12 Artios Award nominations, and 2 wins, for Excellence in Casting. For more than two decades, she's served as CD for Playwrights Horizons - casting over 100 productions, where her credits include GREY GARDENS (also for Broadway), CLYBOURNE PARK (also for Broadway), CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION (Drama Desk and Obie Awards for Best Ensemble and an Artios Award for Casting), and THE FLICK (Playwrights Horizons and The Barrow Street Theatre). Television credits include ABC's THE KNIGHTS OF PROSPERITY with Sofia Vergara and Associate credits include NBC's ED and USA's MONK. Regional work includes Geffen Playhouse, Huntington Theatre, Arena Stage, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Seattle Rep, ACT, and Berkeley Rep. Notable productions include: DETROIT with David Schwimmer, RAPTURE BLISTER BURN, DEAD MAN'S CELLPHONE with Mary Louise Parker, EVERY TONGUE CONFESS with Phylicia Rashad, A LIFE with David Hyde Pierce, and BETHANY with America Ferrera (Women's Project Theater). And she's worked with some of the most notable contemporary playwrights: Annie Baker, Bruce Norris, Christopher Durang, Craig Lucas, Sarah Ruhl, Gina Gionfriddo, Lynn Nottage, Richard Nelson, Robert O'Hara, and Theresa Rebeck. Alaine's experience speaks for itself, but you should really hear her speak for herself. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH Alaine Website https://www.alainealldaffer.com/ Playwrights Horizons Soundstage Podcast https://www.playwrightshorizons.org/watch-listen/soundstage/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP16+-+Alaine+Alldaffer+-+Transcript.pdf
#27 Stephanie drops the target list and finds the perfect bicoastal agent
bonusAfter five incredible meetings, Stephanie signed with a bicoastal agent and has been collaborating with them ever since! But things didn't start that way! Teacher, do-er, and champion of the arts Stephanie Weeks knew she was a powerful creative. But translating that to agent emails never fit. She was often left feeling unseen and fearful. By trusting her intuition and worthiness she was able to find her footing, pinpoint exactly what she offers (and whom she wanted to offer it to), and most importantly, how to do it her way. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Stephanie took a break during her reaching out to reps process which actually helped her realign and move from a place of DATA NOT DRAMA The gift of no's and how they can bring you guidance and clarity Divine timing and the synchronistic-ness of believing the universe is on your side. How thinking isn't the same as action, which truly creates change With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Stephanie Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephweeks/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Stephanie+Weeks+-+Transcript.pdf
#26 'Book the Room' from Your Living Room with Christine Horn
Have you ever done FOUR (or more) takes of a self-tape audition? If you answered YES, you're hurting yourself and today's guest on the podcast will rescue you from drowning in the perfectionist sea of trying to nail your "perfect audition." With 20+ years in the game and 65+ TV/Film credits, Christine Horn cracked the code on how to book more TV and now helps hundreds of actors to do the same. And this Booking Magnet talks the same way we do on the Brian Breaks Character Podcast... I almost fell off my non-existent chair at my standing desk when she said, "We cannot allow our fear to be bigger than our purpose." LISTEN NOW TO LEARN: How most actors turn their training against themselves ← this will surprise you and might piss you off! What it takes to make that home self-tape translate to 'booking the room' and nailing it on set Why thoughts like "I just wish auditions were in person; I'm so much better in the room" hold you back from claiming the roles you were born to play How to get out of the way so nothing prevents you from adding your special sauce to your auditions Plus you'll get a sneak peek of Christine's upcoming event Booking Magnet LIVE. She's lined up incredible coaches, casting directors, and working actors to help you ditch the self-tape heartache so you can own your story with every audition that comes your way. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH Christine Instagram https://www.instagram.com/actresschristinehorn/ Website https://christinehorn.com/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP15+-+Christine+Horn+-Transcript.pdf
#25 Dump Your Toxic Relationship with Money with Miata Edoga
Do you ever second-guess yourself when you wanna buy something like… ...a $7 latte with fancy lavender syrup? ...a decadent lotion that makes you feel like the Queen of Sheba? ...a dress from Anthropologie that's almost ⅓ of your rent? Maybe you're totally paralyzed because you have no idea what your finances look like and your relationship with money is WHAT RELATIONSHIP WITH MONEY?!?!? That's why I can't wait for you to meet my guest Abundance Bound's Miata Edoga She's the inspiring financial goddess who teaches *sold-out* classes at SAG-AFTRA, The Academy, and The Writers and Directors Guilds. For over two decades, Miata has been helping individuals of all backgrounds establish a healthier, more compassionate relationship with their money – whether they are just starting out, or starting over, or starting to wonder how they should handle their growing wealth. AKA - what she says and how she says it will definitely resonate with you. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN: How to ditch the #1 mistake you make when it comes to your money Magic questions that shift you from 'financial pain' to 'financial power' so you can make purchases and plan your future without dread The actions you can take right now that will align you with a life of abundance Plus Miata gets honest about her own story as an actress and how when she finally said YES I GOTTA CLEAN UP THIS MONEY MESS is when she saw her career soar. P.S. If you ever wondered what manifesting abundance looks like: it's a podcast about money showing up in your life… ...and Miata's teachings are hella more reliable than lighting up the palo santo and sucking on a citrine crystal (but yes, of course we will do that too!). Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH MIATA Instagram https://www.instagram.com/abundancebound/ Website https://abundancebound.com/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/EP14+-+Miata+Edoga+-+Transcript.pdf
#24 Alena-the-Hustler took Olympic gold when she quit showcases and landed the reps of her wildest dreams!
bonus6 meetings and 6 offers for representation! The stereotype of a 'lazy actor' would be thrown out the door if you met Alena Acker. This hustle-queen worked nonstop getting herself her own appointments and leveling up her own work for years. The hard-to-swallow pill was that she struggled to find an agent who would support her work to get her to the next level. After all the showcases and pay-to-play moments, she decided it was time to try a new route. After 6 meetings and 6 offers (if this was the Olympics we'd be seeing gold here) Alena landed with an agent and a manager who not only supports her wildest dreams but is working daily to help her make them happen. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Truly writing such a power pitch for herself that she has an across-the-board offer without even having a meeting! How practicing rep meetings allowed her to show up with full confidence. Figuring out what is uniquely hers and bringing that to the metaphorical zoom-table. How having a community contributed to leadership and confidence in yourself Why a scarcity mindset helps no one and how getting past that can help you help yourself and others. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Alena Instagram https://www.instagram.com/miss_aleneous/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Alena+Acker+-+Transcript.pdf
#23 The Call-In Coaching Show featuring YOU (Part 2)
Nothing gets my engines going like a group coaching call with incredibly creative people. So today's guest on Brian Breaks Character is YOU! Well… sort of. I invited my community to a live Q&A Coaching call so that I could help you move the needle on the stuff that holds you back. And in this episode you have a front-row seat as we dig deep into questions about working in multiple markets or making a big bi-coastal move, maintaining your network and staying in touch with casting, and is it a good idea to shell out the dough for a reel, and how to get your mojo back – especially when you've been laying low on the important stuff. Because let's get real: as a creative outlaw you could be busy working on your bizniz ALL THE TIME! Which is both inspiring and paralyzing. You have days you feel full of energy and on top of your game, crossing off that to-do list and other days where you don't even know where to start. If that sounds at all familiar to you then grab a notebook (because you know I love an action plan) and this coaching call is full of takeaways just for you. This is part two of a two-part call…so don't miss this first episode as well. If you'd like to be a guest on the next one, hit me up on instagram. @briansaysthat CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How to level up when you haven't had very many auditions but you're doing all the right things. What makes a great client for agents? The overwhelm of constantly feeling being behind in your work and how you can recommit to a plan of action! If you're in a market that doesn't require agents (like Boston) should you still be trying to get one? How to utilize the self-tapes you did in quarantine to your benefit. Is it important to make an actor website? If so, what do you need to do to get started? How to get back to performing after spending time in another career and path! Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. I also want to celebrate and thank my incredible guests! These are the incredible creatives who spoke up during part one and part two of this call. I encourage you to check them out – they are going places! BRENDA ORTIZ https://www.instagram.com/brend98 RICHARD TANNER https://www.instagram.com/richardtannerwho DOLLY LEWIS https://www.instagram.com/dollylewislove HEATHER GIBSON https://www.instagram.com/heatherg_themillennial SAPNA KUMAR https://www.instagram.com/sapnakumar_actor/ RITA CASTAGNA https://www.instagram.com/ritacastagna JIMMIE WAITES https://www.instagram.com/jimmiejwaites VALERIYA PUSHKAREVA https://www.instagram.com/huskys.eyes AMBER CRAWFORD https://www.instagram.com/amberactor SIERRA MERCIER https://www.instagram.com/sierrasophiamercier JESS KELLNER https://www.instagram.com/jesskellner LAURA SHAPANUS https://www.instagram.com/laurashapanus CHARLOTTE ANNE DORE https://www.instagram.com/rosalitaspuppets MIGS GOVEA https://www.instagram.com/migsifico SHESHE DANCE https://www.instagram.com/sheshedanz MYA CHAMBERLAIN https://www.instagram.com/whoismyac J NYCOLE RALPH https://www.instagram.com/jnycoleralph SARAH MURPHY-KATZ https://www.instagram.com/sarahmk10 Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.12+The+Call-In+Coaching+Show+featuring+YOU+(Part+2)+-+Transcript.pdf
#22 How Misha went from one audition a year to three a week!
bonusMisha's acting was consistently killer. So good, in fact, she had friends giving her constant referrals! And yet… she was hardly auditioning. Misha said no to referrals, gave up her target list, and quit worrying about her credits… and BAM! After taking ownership of her career and putting her choices in her own hands, Misha went from having one theatrical audition a year to self-taping for major network shows 2-3 times a week. And she does not hold back on sharing her secret sauce in this episode! CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How her referrals in the past came from actors at another level and lacked the connectivity she needed to succeed in the relationship. Leaving previous reps without burning bridges and taking the high road. Grieving the loss of time when you realize what has been missing from your career. Dealing with a new set of problems when you enter the next level of your career. How her at-home self-tapes changed the scope of her materials exponentially. Noting your own perfectionism, owning it, and moving past it. The big difference of Developmental vs. Green With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Misha Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mishabouvion/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Misha+Bouvion+-+Transcript.pdf
#21 Use Your Words (to Get into the Right Inboxes) with Copywriting Queen Marisa Corcoran
If you know me, you know I'm obsessed with all things messaging and copywriting. Before you say "Brian, I signed up to be an actor/filmmaker.creative, not a writer," I want you to face a truth - YOU HAVE TO WRITE TO GET NOTICED IN THIS WORLD! The ability to write (or in other words, communicate, or in other words say "HEY I EXIST!") is an essential AND LEARNED part of being a creative that – when done well – will help you attract the right opportunities. This is why I'm geeking out over today's podcast guest Marisa Corcoran - the queen of copywriting herself. Marisa has her MFA in Acting from Harvard (not too shabby), but now uses her theatrical skills to teach coaches and creatives how to confidently schmooze their way into the right inboxes. If you've ever been afraid you'll 'annoy someone' by showing up in their inbox, then this episode is your free masterclass in getting out of our own way. This conversation uncovers performance-based methods for you to step into your confidence through copy. So grab that notebook and pen, and get ready to have your mind blown as Marisa shares some juicy tips on how your emails can jump into people's inboxes with tons of joy. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How copy can uncover clarity, confidence, and help you understand yourself better Marisa's story: A Harvard MFA acting grad turned queen of copywriting The importance of specificity in your message Foster your subscribers, not the unsubscribers What is copywriting and why it's so important for creatives Discomfort and the performative aspect of writing authentically Eye-stopping writing tips so people actually read your emails Being specific with the person you're emailing The power of PS The "Dead to Me" email: how to follow up in a memorable way Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do. CONNECT WITH MARISA Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mtoni/ Website https://marisacorcoran.com/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.12++Marisa+Corcoran+-+Transcript.pdf
#20 Seasoned & Seen-It-All Tara Landed the Manager she was looking for
bonusActress, singer, and songwriter Tara spent 12 years looking for a manager, but she didn't spend that time sitting around. She was voraciously pursuing her career dreams and goals, all while sending email upon email in search of the illusive rep. Then she decided to try a different approach: she looked at how she'd been showing up and after facing the facts, she was able to show up authentically in her reach outs to reps (and with some help from Brian was able to not sound delusional). With this new more honest and vulnerable approach combined with the energy of a supportive community, Tara was able to score her long-awaited representation with the added bonus of a deeper understanding of who she is and identifying exactly what she wants. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Why her old way of sending emails wasn't hitting and how giving reps a description of what you do but also who you are changed everything. She didn't use referrals, fancy credits, or a reel to get in the door How she leveraged her self-tapes to attract reps that were interested in getting her the type of work she wants The hard work of reckoning with the stories we made up in our past about why our career was dragging, not taking off, etc. How she got so singularly focused on finding the right fit that she was willing to go totally un-repped in order to sign with a real match The table-turning moment of having reps pitch themselves to her! With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Tara Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tbabygold/ Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bonus+Ep.+Tara+Goldsborough+-+Transcript.pdf
#19 How to Be a Disability Ally in the Entertainment Biz with Christine Bruno
Disabled people are the United States' largest minority group, encompassing a quarter of the country's population. And yet only 5% of characters in television, film, and theatre are disabled, and only 2% of those roles are actually played by disabled actors. Christine Bruno is a multi-hyphenate whose many titles include actress, activist, teaching artist, disability inclusion consultant, and warrior. She joins the podcast today to shed light on how the disabled community navigates the entertainment industry. As non-disabled actors and creatives, we lack a certain level of awareness and firsthand experience when it comes to representation and the problematic nature of non-disabled actors playing disabled characters. Christine is here to educate us so we can be better advocates for the disabled community, making the entertainment industry more inclusive. I gave Christine full permission to correct me throughout this very important conversation. From the language do's and don'ts surrounding disabled people to the problem with non-disabled actors playing disabled roles, Christine uses her expertise to lovingly put us in our place while fiercely advocating for the business we want to see. To be an artist, Christine believes you need advocacy and activist tools in your toolkit and this episode is a masterclass. Tune in if inclusion is important to you and be prepared as Christine lovely schools us on how to be a true ally to the US' largest minority group in the entertainment business and in life. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS The most important 3 things you need to know if you want to be a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion advocate The things casting directors are not allowed to ask Why lived experience (disability, race, sexuality, etc) is not a technical acting skill How Christine navigated NYC as a disabled young woman Christine's serendipitous journey to becoming a disability advocate in the entertainment industry What Christine's one opportunity to prove herself taught her about making herself undeniable and being her own advocate What you can do to become a better ally to the disabled community Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free http://www.makeagentswantyou.com That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do. Connect With Christine Instagram https://www.instagram.com/christinebrunonyc/ Website https://www.brunodisabilityinclusion.com/ Disability Language Guide https://brianbreakscharacter.com/11 Subscribe To The Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brian-breaks-character/id1570747490 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0QC6RYtcULRMtbsIT3yq?si=xu3QstDpS9WkpoQwHVSueg&nd=1 Watch The Uncut Behind-the-scenes Video Of This Episode On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca Need New Representation? Get In On This Free Training: https://makeagentswantyou.com Follow Me On Instagram For A First-look At Our Guests And Upcoming Episodes! https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat Episode Transcript: https://brianbreakscharacter.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ep.11+Christine+Bruno+-+Transcript.pdf
#18 Actor & Creator Caroline Landed Reps Who Care About Both
bonusEActor & Creator Caroline Landed Reps Who Care About Both Caroline Bloom is an actor AND a filmmaker and was determined to find representation that valued her for ALLLL of her incredible creativity – not just for acting! For far too long she'd been hiding behind the actors-should-only-act myth. She was sure that her road to success had to be paved with acting credits… turns out when she embraced ALL of herself the industry was ready to do so too! She began to indulge in all she had to offer and highlight her gifts in her submissions (instead of tucking them away) – and to her complete surprise, her vulnerability was not only seen, it was signed. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS What it felt like having reps read her emails, forward them to other reps, and compliment her. What being in a good meeting actually feels like – especially when you've only just begun to embrace your creativity in your messaging. How she prepared so she could be open to show up and shine in her rep meetings. How cultivating her full creative life without representation to validate her was the key to being unattached to the outcome in her meetings. How writing opened so many doors for her and became her favorite way to create her own opportunities. How comparison is a form of self-hate and how to shock your system out of it. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. CONNECT WITH CAROLINE Instagram https://www.instagram.com/carolinebloom CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com/ . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#17 TV Powerhouse Danny Rose teaches how to pitch… and come out alive!
Behind every hit TV show and blockbuster movie are a thousand shelved projects that'll never see the light of day. As creatives, we put a lot of heart, time, and energy into our work without the promise of a return on our efforts. Danny Rose is a content creator and producer whose decorated IMDb page might have you fooled. Having produced huge hits like Scrubs, Cougar Town, and Scorpion (just to name a few), Danny has rightfully earned his title as a television producing powerhouse. In today's episode, Danny shares his road to success and the rejections he's faced along the way. Danny discusses his determination for inventive storytelling and sharing his ideas with the world – even if the project falls through in the end. He shares his thoughts on why collaboration is where the real creative magic happens, and how his rejection from USC opened all the right doors even though it wasn't the ones he initially hoped for. As creatives, we aren't strangers to rejection. But Danny's story is proof that every setback is just another step in the right direction. Find validation, comfort, and entertainment in Danny's story as he chats about the exploration of creativity, the power of collaboration, and how a wild drive down the Florida Keys with Mia Farrow and Paul Mazursky settled his confusion about pursuing his college degree. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Danny's pitching pro-tip: how to invite executives into the conversation How to use your agent to network and get meetings with actors, writers, and producers Danny's #1 advice for creatives: never stop exploring Danny's introduction to the world of entertainment as a PA in feature films How Mia Farrow and Paul Mazursky settled the debate for him: continue with college or quit and pursue your dreams? How a rejection from USC's film school opened the right doors The storytelling thread: How collaborations with writers, influencers, and actors strengthen a great idea Successes in failures: A behind the scenes look Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH DANNY Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dannyroseinla/ WEBSITE https://dannyrosemedia.com/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING https://www.makeagentswantyou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! **Note: The Sound is not perfect in this episode, but I think you should listen anyway. If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#16 Coaching Sara on Making the "Right" Manager Decision
bonusSpiritual Sara was guided to her artistic career by following her heart...but that doesn't mean it's always been easy. With 16 years in the industry and great credits, she still found herself sending countless emails to potential reps, and something energetically just wasn't working. After she got clarity on who she was and what she was offering (instead of just asking for) she took 15 rep meetings that left her beyond excited. Today she shares the work she did to get there AND gets super vulnerable about picking between several great matches (hint- this was a TOUGH choice). Brian helps coach her into making a decision but also shares why it doesn't have to be the "right" decision. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How credits and experience can also come with an ego Find an abundance mindset- how her success in this doesn't diminish anyone else's worthiness How her referrals never worked previously and yet she got meetings with the exact same reps through her own emails instead! How to anticipate getting No's so you don't get overwhelmed (and they don't suck the fun out of the process… yes, fun!). Plus some coaching and meditation work from Brian on making tough choices, don't miss the end! With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SARA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsarasaw CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com/ . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#15 Headshots that Win: Prep, Pet Peeves & Perfection with David Muller
Named one of Backstage's "8 Killer Headshot Photographers in NY and LA," David Muller is one of the best headshot photographers out there. Managers and agents send their clients to him whenever they want standout headshots.As an actor who *might* not be a stranger to pinching pennies, the thought of headshots can bring on a wave of panic. If you dread the process, commitment, and investment of taking headshots, this episode is for you. In today's episode, David and I share a wildly different take on how to get the perfect headshots. As an ex-actor himself, David shares how preparation and play are the key (and this lesson applies to ANY set or brave new artistic endeavor!). This conversation with David will give you the steps to plan for a fabulous shoot and the mindset to approach your headshots with more clarity. Prepare to show up to your next shoot ready to play and relinquish control so that you can leave with headshots you're proud of. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Realistic expectations: Why your headshot won't look 100% like your reference or inspiration image David's advice on the hardest look to get – the raw, makeup-less headshot The hallmarks of a great headshot session Wardrobe: flexibility, castability, mistakes and specificity David's hot take on headshot trends... should you actually follow them? How David went from being an out-of-work-actor to Hollywood's hottest headshot photographer Why you need to be clear – but not controlling – about what you want from your headshot shoot Why newer actors should focus on their immediate castability before stretching to get a lot of looks Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH DAVID Instagram https://www.instagram.com/davidmullerphotography/ WEBSITE https://www.davidmullerphotography.com/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING https://www.makeagentswantyou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (https://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#14 From Calling it Quits to 12 Offers – INSPIRING STORY ALERT
bonusFunny lady and voiceover actress Sawyer Greenberg was ready to hang up the proverbial actor-towel. She had done it all and was seeing diddly squat for her efforts. Maybe she should become a dentist? But through some deep ownership of her story and a new healthy relationship with accountability, she got 12 offers for representation. Oh and she not only got to choose her amazing new rep – surprise, surprise! – she also found herself wholly devoted and excited by being an actress again. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How she took true ownership over herself and her career Why taking breaks was so important to her process and how she had to rely on others to recommit to her goals Find human connection and don't put representation on a pedestal Why the fear of "signing your life away" with reps is a total myth and only gets in the way How *the art of saying no* can actually be the start of a great relationship Brian dispels the toxic myth of "being discovered" that actually makes the find representation process more burdensome for actors With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SAWYER Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawyergreenberg CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com/ . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#13 From Craigslist to The White House to a TV career with Kevin Arbouet
In today's episode, Kevin shares his one-of-a-kind story about how he scrounged his way through a seemingly sketchy Craiglist job that ended up with his work being mentioned in Jay Leno's monologue, becoming a parody on SNL, and ultimately ended with Barack Obama's historical win in the 2008 presidential election. As a rebellious child of immigrants, Kevin created an extraordinary career as a writer, producer, director, and as of late – a showrunner. His rejection of a traditional route was the single best decision he made, which proves that success doesn't necessarily look the way we (or others) have planned for it to be. You'll walk away from this conversation with a view through a kaleidoscope of a director's responsibilities and the responsibilities they undertake as they illustrate their vision for the masses, how BIPOC representation in Hollywood has (and hasn't!) changed one year after the senseless murder of George Floyd, and the nuances that we overlook, such as predominantly Black casts and stories that are told without attachment to trauma. You're in for a treat with this episode as Kevin shares his wisdom on artistry, objectivity, the importance of continuous education as an artist, and why the road to real-life success doesn't always pan out in the way we plan for them. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS The universal truth about art and how it can change the world Kevin's story: How a sketchy Craigslist job ended in Barack Obama's presidency The biggest and most common reason why a film fails How the industry has changed a year after George Floyd's murder The reality of having an all BIPOC writer's room Why artists and creatives need to stay objective The importance of continuing education as a creative Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH KEVIN Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kevinarbouet/ WEBSITE https://www.kevinarbouet.com/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat FREE TRAINING https://www.makeagentswantyou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free (http://www.makeagentswantyou.com). That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#12 Mom and actor Eumi let go of limiting beliefs and picked up 6 offers for representation
bonusEumi built her confidence in what she already had to land 6 offers and choose an amazing new manager. Eumi is a busy mom who came into acting late in life, but that doesn't mean she was any less focused on finding her match. Turns out, when you really work to know yourself and what you offer, the hardest part becomes picking a match out of several amazing offers, something Eumi never dreamed of. For a little extra oomph on this episode, Brian shares some insider coaching on what to do after you find a great rep and how to set yourself up for success with casting director workshops. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How she used her mommy-hood to her advantage How not to let your past dictate your future – especially as someone who has done lots of programs over years and tried "all the things" The two big fears of rep meetings: showing off vs. running out of things to say Find representation who understands (and is excited!) about your existing relationships with casting and how to leverage them How to go all-in to get the perfect match representation Let go of referrals and open more doors Own your story or the story owns you Brian shares some insider coaching on what to do after you find a great rep and how to set yourself up for success with casting director workshops. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different because each of these actors wants different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH EUMI Website CONNECT WITH ME Instagram @briansaysthat FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free. That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#11 How to Create Content for Change with Jen Ponton
If you were to ask me to point you in the direction of someone who knows how to put their finger on the pulse and create the thing that the world truly needs (while simultaneously making them cackle!), I'd point at today's guest. Today, the glorious and out-of-this-world joyous, Jen Ponton, joins us on the show. Jen is an accomplished actor, writer, producer, and prolific content maker. Prior to hitting record, I asked Jen what she wanted to share with you all, to which Jen responded, "I really want to talk about creative people making content." And that's exactly what we do in this episode. Best known as the fiercely feminist fat activist 'Rubi' on AMC's critical darling DIETLAND, Jen is an award-winning actress and body, liberation activist. Her television resume includes 30 ROCK, UNBREAKABLE KIMMY SCHMIDT, ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, LAW AND ORDER: SVU, THE BLACKLIST, and BLUE BLOODS. As a screenwriter, she now has several pilots and feature scripts in development. She is also a puppeteer and co-creator of the digital puppet sitcom, THE WEIRDOS NEXT DOOR, now in its sixth season. We discuss the power of creative works and the responsibilities it has when it highlights marginalization – normalization of Black-centric art, queer-centric art, size inclusivity and diversity, and a plethora of backgrounds and life experiences. Jen also shares her hot take on cancel culture and the hope she has for society to recover from some of the insidious ways society conducts itself, such as undermining marginalized communities. We address the innate places that we need to uncover in order to unlearn the prejudices we were taught. This conversation with Jen will challenge and flex your creative muscles, as it encourages you to create for change. Tune in as this inspirational veteran of the industry shares intimate stories and reminds us of the larger role that kindness and empathy plays in the entire journey. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How to write with inclusivity and diversity in mind Why an emphasis on marginalized identities doesn't make or break the story The shift in power to white women through soap opera television The option to rewrite history in narrative fiction Room for reparation and why we should hold white voices accountable What's it like to come out as queer during the pandemic Disorientation from a heteronormative life Thoughts on cancel culture and how to approach it in a healthy way Jen's call and mission to help bridge communities and healing for the world, especially in the plus-size community that thrived from the labor of Black femmes About the All the Fucks podcast and the coolness of not caring Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH JEN Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jenponton/ http://www.jenponton.com/ http://www.jenponton.com/allthefucks Twitter https://twitter.com/jenponton?lang=en CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#10 Sharon Got 35 Meetings for Representation with Zero Referrals
bonusSharon had already done her time and spent her money on programs designed to help actors succeed and make their dreams come true. And Sharon is a whip-smart actress – well-trained, talented and knows her way around the business. She was even a coach at one point! And Sharon does NOT HOLD BACK in this episode. Representation rejection felt so much more personal than 'regular' rejection in the business. She was tired of hearing over and over again, "You're just too hard to sell." Through her journey, she found a fresh mindset to explore new ways to be proud of herself but not until she was able to uncover and ditch A LOT of old stories and limiting beliefs about the business… which naturally led her to 35 meetings without asking for a single referral! I just know Sharon's story will inspire you and that's why I included it in the special How They Did It series of bonus episodes. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different, because each of these actors want different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How she approached not letting her past dictate her future, as someone who has done lots of programs over the course of her career and tried "all the things" The two big fears of rep meetings: showing off vs. running out of things to say Find representation who understands (and is excited!) about your existing relationships with casting and how to leverage them How going all-in can turn into the best results Let go of referrals and open more doors Own your story or the story owns you Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SHARON Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharononscreen/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com/ . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#9 An Inside Look At Writing For Television with Nick Wootton
Emmy Award-Winner Nick Wootton is the reassuring voice we all need to hear; he's fabulously successful, AND he wrestles with the same demons all creatives do! Nick is a writer and executive producer for network television shows like NYPD Blue, Law and Order, and Stumptown (just to name a few). Plus, he's just about the nicest, most generous guy you could ever hope to meet… honestly, I want him to be my friend – and you will too, especially after you hear his honest take on writing for television. In this episode, Nick talks about being branded as a writer for network television and what it means to change the narrative of the creative work you do. He emphasizes the idea that expansion beyond the scope of work you've been recognized for requires taking action – and not just thinking about it. Drawing from Nick's wealth of experience pitching and producing television, we get into a frank discussion about how to combat stage fright and nerves while also staying true to your purpose. Nick speaks to his experience working with actors as a writer, so actors take note of ways to bolster up in the audition room. If you ever plan to pitch or produce ANYTHING, don't miss this episode to hear his intimate relationship with creativity – plus the essential actions every creative must take if they want to be successful. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS The #1 Thing that gets in the way of writers being successful and how to keep an eye on your "competition" How to rebrand yourself in your industry Find confidence in pitches – no matter the size of the project Why the actor always needs to be in the writer's head The close-ended nature of network vs. open-ended nature of cable/streaming shows How deadlines drive his work Why accountability (sometimes from unusual places!) is key to successful completing creative work Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH NICK Nick's IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0941370/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out to reps and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#8 Sheila-Joon from full-on skeptic to bi-coastal success story
bonusSheila-Joon Azim is one of my favorite types of clients. Why? Because she was a total skeptic when it came to reaching out to reps. After a series of rejections she got to the screw it, why not point and jumped in headfirst. Getting into the community of it all, Sheila-Joon became the ultimate success story, landing two new agents in two markets while maintaining her own self-care in the process. And we love that combo the most. Sheila-Joon has a new manager and two new agents – in two different markets!This is part of a special How They Did It series of bonus episodes. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different, because each of these actors want different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How Sheila prepped for meetings, created her routines, and kept herself "ready" as her meetings stretched over multiple weeks Questions reps asked in meetings and what surprised her most Tri-Coastal? How she took meetings in two regions AT THE SAME TIME The importance of the group process so she never felt alone How to celebrate success so it doesn't leave you feeling empty Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SHEILA-JOON Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheilajoon_azim/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#7 From stuck to surprised, Shawn got 15 offers for representation
bonusShawn Jain was sick and tired of being nervous to answer the question: What do you do? As an actor struggling to find reps, he wasn't sure how to respond. After a lot of hard work on his part and his exploration of himself, he was not only able to confidently answer that question, he scored 17 meetings and 15 offers for representation. This is part of a special How They Did It series of bonus episodes. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different, because each of these actors want different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How actor have shame and hide "being an actor" and feeling judged in the moment when someone asks "what do you do" The energy it takes to reach out to reps, respond to emails, take rejection, etc…it's a lot. Dealing with agents asking you to put sides on tape (knowing it has nothing to do with you, but can you do the turnaround it takes to be a working actor) Looking for a relationship based on equality, not just being happy to have a rep What it really means to be ready for the right reps, instead of looking to have all his boxes checked off and how that can be a limiting belief How he signed with the SE market and NY market at the same time Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SHAWN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnjain/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#6 New to Town Danielle got 16 offers for representation
bonusToday's guest is Danielle Beckman and I can't wait for you to meet her because she'll share how she scored 20 meetings and got 16 offers for representation. Now Danielle was completely new to Los Angeles so she didn't have casting referrals or LA credits to rely on. Plus as she'll share with you, she had very little confidence around reps: emailing and talking to them was intimidating and sent her in a spiral of seeking validation. Sound familiar? This is part of a special How They Did It series of bonus episodes. With this series, actors I'm talking to you: I believe that acting is your calling and your purpose on the planet. You use your voice, and your body, and all that you are, to tell stories that remind US what it is to be human. You have the power to change lives. And, we all know that having great representation makes that impact all that much more possible. But let's not get it twisted – looking for an agent or a manager sucks. It's not straightforward, there are tons of people telling you the best-slash-only ways to do it, and it can leave you in a constant state of anxiety thinking to yourself – is this ever going to happen for me? And that's why in this series of tell-all interviews with my agent goals students – you'll hear how they did it. REMINDER: Each of these bonus episodes is very different, because each of these actors want different things from their careers: some want to be on Broadway, others have their sights set on tv and film, and still others are creators and want to land reps that are excited by that. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Danielle didn't send potential new reps to her website, instead she presented her material in a whole new way Why the follow up email is so clutch. How "data not drama" saved her from over-thinking the non-responses so she could show up powerful and excited to her meetings How her "No, thank you's" became a blessing and turned No's to Yes's How she became a "Yes" to reps before she even logged into her Zoom meetings Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH DANIELLEInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/deebeck/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#5 The Call-In Coaching Show featuring YOU
Nothing gets my engines going like a group coaching call with incredible creative people. So today's guest on Brian Breaks Character is YOU! Well… sort of. I invited my community to a live Q&A Coaching call so that I could help you move the needle on the stuff that holds you back. And in this episode you have a front row seat as we dig deep into questions about working in multiple markets or making a big bi-coastal move, maintaining your network and staying in touch with casting, and is it a good idea to shell out the dough for a reel, and how to get your mojo back – especially when you've been laying low on the important stuff. Because let's get real: as a creative outlaw you could be busy working on your bizniz ALL THE TIME! Which is both inspiring and paralyzing. You have days you feel full of energy and on top of your game, crossing off that to-do list and other days where you don't even know where to start. If that sounds at all familiar to you then grab a notebook (because you know I love an action plan) and this coaching call is full of takeaways just for you. This is part one of a two-part call… more to come. If you'd like to be a guest on the next one, hit me up on Instagram. @briansaysthat CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Why is this coaching for actors and ALL creatives? Should you pay for reel scenes or just do some damn good self tapes? How to get your mojo back after falling off the actor-wagon How to stay in touch with casting – especially after signing with new reps What mindset (and outside preparation) do you need to be able to make a big move (especially post-covid)? Spread yourself across multiple markets at the same time to multiple your opportunities Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.Wanna join me on the next Coaching Call Episode?Shoot me a DM on Instagram @briansaysthatI also want to celebrate and thank my incredible guests! These are the incredible creatives who spoke up during part one and part two of this call. I encourage you to check them out – they are going places! BRENDA ORTIZ https://www.instagram.com/brend98/ RICHARD TANNER https://www.instagram.com/richardtannerwho/ DOLLY LEWIS https://www.instagram.com/dollylewislove/ HEATHER GIBSON https://www.instagram.com/heatherg_themillennial/ SAPNA KUMAR https://www.instagram.com/sapnakumar_actor/ RITA CASTAGNA https://www.instagram.com/ritacastagna/ JIMMIE WAITES https://www.instagram.com/jimmiejwaites/ VALERIYA PUSHKAREVA https://www.instagram.com/huskys.eyes/ AMBER CRAWFORD https://www.instagram.com/amberactor/ SIERRA MERCIER https://www.instagram.com/sierrasophiamercier/ JESS KELLNER https://www.instagram.com/jesskellner/ LAURA SHAPANUS https://www.instagram.com/laurashapanus/ CHARLOTTE ANNE DORE https://www.instagram.com/rosalitaspuppets/ MIGS GOVEA https://www.instagram.com/migsifico/ SHESHE DANCE https://www.instagram.com/sheshedanz/ MYA CHAMBERLAIN https://www.instagram.com/whoismyac/ J NYCOLE RALPH https://www.instagram.com/jnycoleralph/ SARAH MURPHY-KATZ https://www.instagram.com/sarahmk10/
#4 Find Your Inner Purpose with Mark and Jenny
If you've ever said to yourself, "I just wanna do work I care about," then this episode is for you. In today's episode, two of my absolute favorite people really piss me off! Jenny and Mark are coaches who help their clients discover and articulate their true inner meaning, or what they call their Boldly Original Proposition (BOP). But we might as well call them unicorns because they spin their magic by asking questions that uncover your deepest purpose so you can start doing what matters most. And they've got ME in the hot seat talking about something that makes me feel super weird and squishy. If you've ever needed the language to express what it is you do and/or why it's so important to you then DO NOT MISS THIS EPISODE. Many of us have got it wrong in our approach to *figuring out* our meaning and purpose in life. When we think about living a meaningful life, we often ask ourselves what we can DO to find our purpose. You go searching for meaning and purpose in the work you do and in activities outside of yourself. In reality, your inner meaning comes from all the things you've gone through and grown through in your life. This could be a combination of both delightful – and not-so-delightful! –experiences. Jenny and Mark get me to spill my own hesitations with claiming my training as a non-denominational reverend and spiritual practitioner… to be very clear even saying those words STILL makes me wanna yack. If you have ever wrestled with being seen, then this episode might just crack something open in you. I cannot wait for you to hear this honest and vulnerable conversation... and by that I mean I can't believe I'm letting you hear it. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Boldy Original Proposition explained How they discovered their BOP How we can use our BOP as an emotional anchor Exciting examples of BOPs so you can get inspired to find your own Exercises to find what you truly value in life Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH JENNY AND MARK www.boldlyoriginal.com 6 POWER PROMPTS www.SixPowerPrompts.com CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#3 How To Show Up & Think Bigger with DaJuan Johnson
You'll recognize DaJuan Johnson from hits like Narcos, Grey's Anatomy, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and SEVEN seasons of Bosch (just to name a few!), I couldn't think of anyone better to have a conversation all about confidence and thinking bigger! DaJuan is a coach who helps actors shift their mindset to find clarity, so they can push through uncertainty and take focused action to reach their dreams. In today's episode, Dajuan and I discuss what thinking bigger actually means and the actionable ways to develop a no-fail mindset. We discuss why it is crucial to step into this bigger mindset so you can show up and do your best work as an actor (or any type of creative!). DaJuan exposes the lie of the billing hierarchy and how it prevents us from feeling like we're not enough as artists. He breaks down the tough, internal desperation actors have that keeps us small and stops us from our full artistic capabilities. At times, a creative career can feel like you're on the outside looking in with very little validation – enter DaJuan who provides tons of reassurance while he exposes the uncomfortable truth of how your mindset gets in your way (or makes ALL THE DIFFERENCE!). Despite DaJuan's decorated credentials, he reminds all actors that he isn't extraordinary. At the end of the day, the only thing he has that you might not have is just more tools in his toolbox. This episode is your chance to learn, grow, and gain the mindset and confidence you need to focus on what's in your control and let go of the things that aren't. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS Find confidence as an actor/actress What thinking bigger means Why DaJuan's perfect client dwells in the world of possibilities Develop personal routines and shift your mindset Why inner work helps you handle intimidation POC in the modern film industry Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH DAJUAN Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thinkbiggercoaching/ www.thinkbiggercoaching.com –where actors can get their hands on my ultimate self-tape travel studio. DaJuan's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dajuanjohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor CONNECT WITH ME Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#2 Ignite a Revolution In Filmmaking with Naomi McDougall Jones
I have a creative crush on Naomi McDougall Jones. She's just the kind of creative that Brian Breaks Character celebrates; she's an award-winning filmmaker, actress, author, speaker, and diversity in film activist. What we see in movies matters: it affects our hobbies, our career choices, our emotions and even our identities. Right now, we don't see enough women on screen or behind the camera – but waiting for Hollywood to grow a conscience isn't going to fix the problem, says Naomi McDougall Jones. Naomi stops by to tell us all about her time as an indie filmmaker, her journey as an actress, and how her experience catapulted her into speaking out against the misogyny, gender inequality, and sexism in the film industry. In her viral Ted Talk What It's Like to Be a Woman in Hollywood and follow up book The Wrong Kind of Women: Inside Our Revolution to Dismantle the Gods of Hollywood she outlines a four-point plan for a total representation revolution in Hollywood and shows us how we can be a vital part of the change we want to see. Plus Naomi gives us a front row seat to how she makes her own projects happen: how to get feedback (that's actually helpful), how to get meaningful meetings with producers, innovating distribution, pitching your project without wasting your time, and how her viral TED talk came to be. Naomi has had quite a journey in the world of film and is here to give us a peek into the difficulties women face in the industry, how to be creative and have your voice heard, adjusting your strategy when approaching systemic issues in the film industry. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the change that needs to happen in film and how our guest is tackling this lack of representation head on! CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How to fundraise for your next film What it looks like to truly speak out on misogyny and gender inequality in the film industry Behind the scenes of Naomi's viral TED talk Naomi's revolution to support women, POC, and underrepresented voices A 4-step revolution to make and distribute films more equitably How to mentally prepare yourself to work inside the "system" (while also dismantling it!) Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH NAOMI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naomimj/ https://www.naomimcdougalljones.com/ https://www.ted.com/speakers/naomi_mcdougall_jones Naomi's Twitter CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here http://www.makeagentswantyou.com . That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
#1 Find Consistency In Your Hustle with Sam Valentine
Welcome to the very first episode of Brian Breaks Character! To start this show off with a bang, I've invited the curiously honest and benevolent Sam Valentine on the show for a *completely confidential* coaching call. So naturally, I want all of my listeners to tune in for some key takeaways from our raw and open conversation about creative impact and making a buck while you do it! To set the stage, Sam is an LA-based actress, and host of the One Broke Actress podcast, a show that shares insightful tips that can only come from actors and actresses in the thick of their careers. In today's episode, I coach Sam on her current career roadblocks, including where she needs to concentrate her energy as we move out of the pandemic and back into a healthy hustle. She also shares tips on how she stays grateful as she navigates her goals with her acting career and podcast business. During our coaching session, I asked her to expand on how she uses her podcast platform to honor where her audience is in their acting journey. Sam also shares how she realized that her podcast, One Broke Actress, gives her inherent value as a resource for others to learn the truth behind the life of a working actor (and actress) by asking questions and getting answers on the detailed corners of the world of film. As a previously broke actress herself, Sam shines a spotlight on the fatigue that comes from multitasking and ways you can take control over the goals you set for yourself! We also chat about the resistance that comes up around pricing our work, the intricacies of creating multiple streams of income to support herself, and how she will best serve her audience. CLOSER LOOK & TAKEAWAYS How to translate the fear behind getting sucked back into the hustle mentality Why our value is tied to our careers and how to break that thought process How we show up mo' betta' when we invest energy and money The impact behind One Broke Actress A balance between acting and producing a podcast Watch the uncut behind-the-scenes video of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brianpatacca CONNECT WITH SAM https://onebrokeactress.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onebrokeactress/ CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansaysthat/ FREE TRAINING www.MakeAgentsWantYou.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Brian Breaks Character! If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review. Your review helps boost the show and gives us the chance to help more creatives get out of suffering for their art and into action. Be sure to leave your IG handle when you do so I can send a VIP episode to say thank you. Want to learn more? If you're an actor and your goal is to have a fabulous representation, come watch Make Agents Want You for free here: http://www.makeagentswantyou.com That way, you can get off the hamster wheel of reaching out and focus on the acting you were born to do.
Welcome to Brian Breaks Character
trailerThe show where we slay the suffering artist myth so you can attract the right attention, get out of your own way, and become so aligned with your spiritual purpose that abundance in all its glorious forms finds you. Brian Breaks Character is your new favorite listen if you're done suffering for your art and second-guessing every step of your yellow brick road.