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Second Act Actors
EP 124: Nir Guzinski: Shy Kid Turned Actor/Creative
This weeks episode celebrates the amazing Tik Tok sensation, NIR GUZINSKI!! He had a career in marketing before switching to content creation and acting. The conversation covers the challenges and journey of acting, the perception of talent and training in creative careers, and the evolution of acting on social media. It also explores the balance between acting and marketing, as well as the adaptation to COVID-19 and the creation of characters. In this part of the conversation, Nir discusses the evolution of social media platforms and the impact of TikTok's virality. He shares his experience of going viral on TikTok and the challenges of transitioning from social media to film and TV. Nir also emphasizes the importance of continuous promotion and marketing on social media. He discusses the role of social media in the acting industry and offers advice for actors to pursue their passion, utilize social media, and network. In this conversation, Nir shares his insights and advice for aspiring actors. He emphasizes the importance of following your passion and taking it slow, as well as using social media to showcase your work. Nir also highlights the value of networking in the industry and how it can lead to opportunities. Lastly, he reminds actors that acting is not just about talent, but also about understanding the business side of the industry.
Takeaways
- Acting requires both innate talent and training to excel in the craft.
- Creative careers, including acting, are often perceived as less credible and require less formal education compared to traditional careers.
- Social media platforms have provided opportunities for actors to showcase their talent and gain visibility.
- Balancing a day job, such as marketing, with pursuing acting can be challenging but necessary for stability.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has forced actors to adapt and find new ways to create and connect with audiences. Social media platforms like TikTok have evolved and become powerful tools for creators to gain visibility and go viral.
- The virality on TikTok can lead to increased followers and opportunities for creators, but it is important to adapt to the platform's format and trends.
- Transitioning from social media to film and TV can be challenging, as the audience on social media may not necessarily translate to success in traditional media.
- Continuous promotion and marketing are essential for creators to maintain visibility and engage with their audience.
- Social media can play a significant role in the acting industry, but actors should also focus on honing their craft and networking to create opportunities. Follow your passion and don't let hurdles stop you.
- Utilize social media to show your process and work.
- Networking is crucial for success in the acting industry.
- Remember that acting is a business and understanding its dynamics is important.
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157. EP 157: Pascal Langdale: Actor, Teacher & Mocap Specialist
01:09:53||Season 1, Ep. 157In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Pascal Langdale delve into the education system for actors, the illusion of a career ladder, and the necessity of finding joy in the craft of acting. Pascal emphasizes the importance of practicing and honing one's skills, regardless of industry recognition, and the need to maintain a sense of play in the art of acting. He emphasizes the importance of character immersion and the psychophysical relationships that actors must navigate to deliver authentic performances. Pascal shares his personal techniques for learning lines and the significance of embodied movement in acting. He also reflects on memorable moments in motion capture and offers advice for aspiring actors, highlighting the need for a long-term perspective in their careers.TakeawaysThe acting industry is competitive and often disheartening.Education in acting does not guarantee success in the industry.Financial stability is crucial for aspiring actors.The concept of a career ladder in acting is misleading.Finding joy in acting is essential for long-term fulfillment.Embodied movement enhances acting skills.Psychophysical relationships inform character motivations.Work With Pascal: http://collectiveintent.net/156. EP 156: Alaine Hutton: Basketball Player Turned Actor
01:10:52||Season 1, Ep. 156In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Alaine Hutton explore the intricacies of acting, the importance of listening, and the transition from sports to the performing arts. They discuss the challenges actors face in maintaining authenticity on camera, the skills transferred from athletics to acting, and the surprising business aspects of a career in the arts. The dialogue emphasizes the need for training, the value of being present, and the ongoing journey of self-improvement in both fields. They also delve into the creative process behind Alaine's work, particularly her show 'Honey I'm Home,' emphasizing the human experience and the role of failure in both art and life.TakeawaysAuthenticity in acting is crucial for engaging performances.The ability to listen is a key skill for actors.The importance of creating your own opportunities in the arts.Listening can deflate anger and build respect in conversations.Failure is a significant part of the artistic journey.Theater allows for a shared human experience.155. EP 155: Chai Valladares: Anthropology Major Turned Actor
52:02||Season 1, Ep. 155In this engaging conversation, Chai Valladares and Janet McMordie explore the nuances of being a Canadian actor in the industry, discussing the balance between gratitude and a sense of belonging. They delve into the importance of recognizing one's worth, the joy that Canadian actors bring to productions, and the challenges they face. The discussion also touches on the significance of comfort on set, memorable experiences, and the value of pursuing passions outside of acting, such as Dungeons and Dragons. They conclude with insights on controlling what one can in the industry and life, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and character development.TakeawaysThe combination of theater and anthropology enriches an actor's understanding of character.Appearance can significantly impact the types of roles available to actors.The acting industry is surprisingly supportive and collaborative.Smaller markets foster a sense of community among actors.Canadians often feel grateful to be in the industry, but they should also recognize their worth.Building character is essential for personal and professional growth.154. EP 154: Ava Val: Stand-Up Comedian
49:20||Season 1, Ep. 154In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Ava Val explore Ava's journey into stand-up comedy, detailing the challenges, learning processes, and the importance of community and mentorship in the industry. The discussion highlights the vulnerability of performing stand-up, the evolution of the comedy landscape, and the surprises encountered over her career. She shares advice for aspiring comedians and emphasizing the need to confront fears to achieve happiness. Ava also expresses her commitment to empowering the trans community through her performances, highlighting the significance of joy and resilience in the face of adversity.TakeawaysComedy can unite people and foster harmony.The vulnerability of stand-up is a unique challenge.Networking is crucial for a successful comedy career.Mentorship plays a significant role in personal growth.The journey of a comedian is filled with challenges, but perseverance leads to fulfillment.SO BRAVE Comedy Special153. EP 153: Naomi Snieckus: FIRECRACKERS SPECIAL EPISODE!!!
01:10:28||Season 1, Ep. 153In this special episode, in collaboration with the Firecrackers podcast, Janet McMordie and Naomi Snieckus explore the evolution of their podcasting journeys and the importance of community in creative fields. They discuss the influence of their parents on their creative pursuits, the challenges of navigating the acting industry, and the invaluable skills gained from improv that enhance their professional lives. The conversation also delves into the birth of the Firecracker Department, a supportive community for artists, and the joy found in pursuing multiple passions. With a focus on supporting new talent and maintaining a sense of fun in their work, they share valuable insights and personal anecdotes that resonate with anyone in the creative field.TakeawaysThe evolution of podcasting has shifted towards more casual and engaging conversations.Community and collaboration are essential in the entertainment industry.Improv skills can enhance problem-solving abilities in both medicine and acting.The stories we tell are what endure over time.Maintaining fun in the creative process is vital.Firecracker Department Website152. EP 152: Colin McMurray: Talent Agent
52:54||Season 1, Ep. 152In this conversation, Colin McMurray shares his journey from working in a department store to becoming a successful talent agent. He discusses the importance of spotting talent, the daily responsibilities of an agent, and how actors can empower themselves to succeed in the industry. Colin also addresses the challenges faced by actors, especially those entering the industry later in life, and emphasizes the need for continuous training and commitment to the craft. The conversation highlights the complexities of the acting industry and the vital role agents play in navigating it. Colin concludes with an emphasis on the need for actors to balance their passion for acting with other careers, while also providing valuable insights into navigating the industry effectively.TakeawaysClimbing the ladder in the industry requires patience and hard work.Spotting talent is a natural skill that agents develop over time.Actors often underestimate the behind-the-scenes work of their agents.Actors must take charge of their careers and continuously improve their skills.Commitment to acting classes is essential for ongoing success.Balancing a career outside of acting can alleviate pressure and improve performance.Submissions to agencies should be well-researched and personalized.151. EP 151: Andy Paige: Inventor/QVC Host Turned Actor
44:36||Season 1, Ep. 151In this engaging conversation, Andy Paige shares her remarkable journey from a small town to becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. She discusses her early aspirations of being a sportscaster, her unexpected transition to reality television, and the challenges she faced after a life-altering accident. Andy emphasizes the importance of resilience, networking, and planting seeds for future opportunities. She also delves into the fast-paced world of soap operas, the significance of authenticity in acting, and the power of positivity and gratitude in navigating a fickle industry. She reflects on her collaborative experiences in television, the innovative marketing strategies being implemented, and encourages listeners to embrace lifelong learning and multiple careers. Andy's insights highlight the significance of staying grounded while pursuing dreams and the evolving landscape of television.TakeawaysLife is about the seeds that you plant.Resilience is key in the face of adversity.Networking can open unexpected doors.Authenticity enhances performance in acting.The fast-paced nature of soap operas is challenging.Positivity can transform your experience in the industry.Staying curious is key to personal and professional growth.150. EP 150: Salvatore Antonio: Actor, Coach, SCAR
01:40:35||Season 1, Ep. 150Salvatore Antonio shares his journey into the acting business and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses the need to identify personal goals and preferences in order to make strategic career choices. Salvatore also highlights the impact of storytelling and the role of actors in connecting with people. He encourages aspiring actors to stay on the ladder of their career and be resilient in the face of challenges. Salvatore Antonio shares his journey of leaving acting and pursuing a career as a funeral director. He talks about the moment of realization and the decision to make a change. He reflects on the importance of having a plan B and being prepared for the ups and downs of the acting industry. He emphasizes the need to humanize the casting process and the importance of kindness and empathy in the industry. He also reflects on the power of collaboration and the impact of storytelling on audiences.TakeawaysIdentify personal goals and preferences to make strategic career choices.Stay on the ladder of your career and be resilient in the face of challenges. Having a plan B can provide a sense of security and stability in the unpredictable acting industry.Actors should focus on doing their best work and not define themselves solely by the outcome of auditions. Champion yourself as an actor and bring your unique perspective to your workAuthenticity and individuality are crucial in storytellingCollaboration can lead to powerful and transformative experiencesThe acting industry is constantly changing, and actors need to adapt and find joy in the process149. EP 149: Casey Walker: Filmmaker
01:02:59||Season 1, Ep. 149Filmmaker Casey Walker shares his journey into the entertainment industry, detailing his early passion for movies and the challenges faced in both television and filmmaking. He discusses the importance of storytelling, the realities of gatekeeping in the industry, and offers practical advice for aspiring filmmakers. Throughout the conversation, Casey emphasizes the need for perseverance, creativity, and the willingness to learn from experiences. He shares insights into the film production process, emphasizing the balance between creativity and budget constraints. He discusses the importance of collaboration between producers and directors, the role of actors in supporting the creative vision, and the challenges of the audition process. Casey also highlights the significance of continuous practice and learning for actors. He concludes with heartfelt advice for aspiring filmmakers about finding joy in their craft and recognizing when to pivot in their careers.TakeawaysTransitioning from TV to film requires a different approach to storytelling.The filmmaking process is often fraught with challenges and uncertainties.Aspiring filmmakers should focus on creating with the resources they have.Staying motivated in a fickle industry is crucial for success.Completion of projects is more valuable than perfection in the creative process. "Films aren't finished; they're abandoned."Producers must balance creativity with fiscal responsibility.Collaboration is key to successful film production.Auditioning is an actor's primary job.It's okay to pivot if filmmaking isn't fulfilling.