Slate It Till You Make It (Catherine Donnelly)

Today's commercial industry guest is Jeff Gould. Jeff has worked in commercial casting for almost 20 years, has been a session director for 15 years and has been teaching audition technique classes for The Commercial Class for 8 years. 

He offers in-person and zoom audition coaching and can be contacted at:  jdgatahc@gmail.com

• Doing your homework before commercial auditions
• All things car auditions - the subtle moment where the driver falls in love with the car, the less the client notices you are driving the car, the better! Keeping space work grounded.
• The dreaded group improv audition - how to save yourself from a shitty improv scene partner- defusing the scene.
• GOOD improv doesn’t need to be funny.
• What energy are you bringing with you into the room? Into your tape?
• Why we downplay our commercial wins
• Conflicting directions - "don’t be salesy but be salesy"
• Cherry picking your lines  - don't do it!
• Situational scenes
• Don’t pull focus in group scenes! It’s not about you
• If you let a scene breathe, wonderful things can happen.
• Don’t prejudge a script!
• The dangerous spiral of “actor math”
• The best actor doesn’t necessarily book the job….
• Doing the best you can every single time
• How to tackle personality questions - casting is looking for an answer that elicits/shows your personality. What makes you light up. DON'T MAKE LISTS
• Specificity is your friend!
• What a slate is NOT - to give them a name. What is IS - to show your personality.

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," Catherine Donnelly curates valuable insights gleaned from Season 3, meticulously tailored to cater to emerging actors.

SEASON 3 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATE49 PROMO CODE FOR A DISCOUNTED ONE ON ONE COACHING SESSION.  

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make It, Catherine engages in a dynamic conversation with comedian, Tom Fox. Tom, who has recently landed the role of commercial spokesperson for Dave and Busters, generously imparts his wealth of knowledge, offering invaluable strategies and life-enhancing insights for those aspiring to thrive in the realm of comedy and entertainment.

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In this two part episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host, Catherine Donnelly interviews four-time Emmy Award-winning casting director, John Frank Levey. He has cast iconic television shows such as China Beach, ER, The West Wing and Shameless, as well as dozens of other television series, miniseries, TV movies, digital series, video games and feature films. John is also a five-time winner of the Casting Society of America’s Artios Award and the recipient of its prestigious Hoyt Bowers Award, given for excellence in casting and outstanding contributions to the casting profession. Right for the Role is his first book. After decades at Warner Bros, he became Vice President of Casting for John Wells Productions before launching his own casting company. Throughout his career, he has been a proud collaborator with many great writers, actors, producers and directors—he is most gratified for the friendships he’s forged and the talent he has helped foster. Personally, John is most proud of his children, Oliver Leo and Joanna Claire. Ladies and gentlemen, the John Frank Levey.

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IG: john_frank_levey_

Kyle Helf has been procrastinating his way to the top since 1998. A video maker since middle school, Kyle eventually fell into professional acting in 2013. He’s achieved consistent commercial bookings thru the years, as well as numerous appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live. You will find him street performing improvised music on Venice Beach, as well as co-hosting his two backyard comedy shows, Show Tell Show & Fresh Fish. Please jeer and hiss at the forgettable, Kyle Helf.

Follow @kylehelf @showtellshow

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews full time actor/model Maggie Vlasaty. Embark on Maggie's transformative journey from a small town Minnesota to the heart of Los Angeles as she pursued her acting and modeling aspirations. With a background in sports management, Maggie reveals the pivotal moment that fueled her decision to dive into acting. Overcoming the challenges of transitioning to a competitive city, she shares her strategies for networking, seizing opportunities, and staying motivated in the face of adversity. From auditions without an agent to securing her breakthrough role, Maggie's experience offers actionable insights for aspiring actors. Her story underscores the importance of balancing auditions, classes, and commitments while leaving a lasting piece of advice for those venturing into the world of acting in Los Angeles.

Follow Maggie on IG @maggievelocity

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“You have to find your own rainbow to follow. There is no gold at the end of somebody else’s rainbow.” 

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, we dive into the world of commercial acting with a special focus on The Commercial Club. Far from just another class, The Commercial Club serves as a hub where actors converge to build relationships and elevate their audition game, leading to increased callbacks and coveted bookings. Through their innovative On Demand Coaching, actors receive expert guidance comparable to in-studio auditions, enhancing their self-tape submissions from the comfort of their own homes. Additionally, exclusive club events offer members invaluable real-world connections with top industry professionals, further fueling their success in the competitive commercial landscape. Join us as we explore how The Commercial Club empowers actors to achieve stronger and more successful commercial acting careers.

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The Commercial Club

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly interviews actress Amy Argyle. Amy has been a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry since beginning her career in Dallas in 2001. Now based in Los Angeles, Amy has appeared in over 150 commercials, numerous TV shows including a recent appearance on ABC and Hulu's "9-1-1," and both studio and indie films. Her notable voice work includes roles in the drama podcasts "Batman Unburied" Seasons 1 and 2, "DUST," and an upcoming project with Amazon. A two-time film festival award winner, one of her acclaimed films is set to be featured at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival in The American Pavilion.

Besides her screen achievements, Amy has been active in theater, with her latest stage work being an award-nominated play she produced and starred in during the 2019 Hollywood Fringe Festival. This play was translated into English from Spanish after Amy was inspired by a performance she saw in Mexico City.

Offstage, Amy is deeply committed to personal growth and healing. She shares her journey of overcoming childhood traumas and transforming her life through a deeper connection with spirituality and mindset changes. Recently certified as a Trauma Informed Therapeutic Breathwork Guide, Amy conducts private and group sessions in Los Angeles, aiding others in their paths to authenticity.

Amy is also the founder of Argyle Apothecary, a line of homemade organic skincare products, enhancing her diverse professional portfolio.

SEASON 2 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATEITPOD PROMO CODE TO GRAB A FREE DROP IN GYM AND ELITE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.

IG: @amy.argyle

@argyle_collective 

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly sits with Daniel Rojas and Jamila Hache, the visionary co-founders of Rafy, an innovative self-tape app designed to give actors more freedom, flexibility, and control over their auditions. As self-tapes continue to dominate the industry, actors face ongoing challenges—limited space, scheduling conflicts, and the struggle to find a reliable reader. Rafy tackles these pain points head-on, providing autonomous practice, AI-powered recording, and an all-in-one solution that simplifies the audition process without sacrificing artistic integrity.

Daniel, a sound engineer and composer, and Jamila, an actor who knows the self-tape grind firsthand, bring their unique backgrounds in entertainment and tech to this groundbreaking platform. Together, they’ve built a tool that not only streamlines auditions but ensures actors maintain full ownership of their work in an evolving industry. In this conversation, we dive into Rafy’s origins, what sets it apart, and how ethical AI is shaping the future of auditioning. Plus, Daniel and Jamila share essential insights for actors looking to elevate their self-tape game. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with game-changing advice you won’t want to miss!

CLICK HERE TO TRY RAFY!

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@rafyapp on Tik Tok

In this episode of 'Slate It Till You Make It,' host Catherine Donnelly interviews Sean Spann, an actor, teacher, private coach and VO dubbing artist born and raised outside St. Louis, MO. An LA resident for almost 17 years, he's worked as an actor in television, film, commercials, and stage. TV/Film credits include The Little Things, Little America, Shameless, General Hospital, and Jane the Virgin. He's recently been seen in commercials or ad campaigns for Volkswagen, Disney, and Delta Airlines. He's dubbed central characters in Max's 'On The Spectrum' and Amazon's 'The Corruption Game', and in 2023, played Brutus in 'Julius Caesar' in his 7th season at the New Swan Shakespeare Festival. He's instructed Voice, Speech, Movement, Shakespeare on both the college and conservatory level, and privately coaches actors for auditions, voice, and accent modification. Sean earned a BFA in Acting from the University of Evansville, and an MFA in Acting from UC Irvine. 

SEASON 2 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATEITPOD PROMO CODE TO GRAB A FREE DROP IN GYM AND ELITE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.

Insta: @seanspanntastic (personal), @spannvoiceandspeech (professional)  coaching and private class website: www.seanspann.com

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews actress, session director, wardrobe consultant and bad ass, Joy Lofton. They discuss breaking perfectionism habits, how to stop apologizing in the room, and other cringe audition habits,  pre-audition rituals and the importance of memorization. 

Joy Lofton guest grew up in St. Louis and has been acting in LA for 20 years. She’s shot over 70 commercials, mostly as a mom in a kitchen — she’s also been a “period expert”, had dogs lick baby food off her face, and bobbed for apples, coming up with a rat instead of an apple. She works regularly as a freelance session director for multiple casting directors and studios and has been a teacher at Ross Lacy and Alyson Horn’s The Commercial Class for seven years. In addition, she does interior design and wardrobe consulting and has a deep deep love for clothes and houses. Her favorite thing in the world to do is thrifting and peloton. She’s married to a man named Earl and has two teenage daughters. 

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly sits down with John Lehr - comedic performer, writer and producer working in television, film and theater.

Lehr co-created, wrote and executive produced and starred in both “10 Items or Less,” on TBS Hulu’s original comedy western “Quickdraw.”  

Lehr is one of the original Geico Cavemen from the wildly successful commercial campaign. He has appeared in dozens of spots, including the first commercial as a caveman boom operator, the caveman in therapy with Talia Shire, the tennis spot with Billy Jean King, Superbowl spots with Phil Simms and many more.

Under their banner Howler Monkey Productions, Lehr and producing partner Nancy Hower have created multiple projects, most involving their unique improvisationally-based “hybrid” style found in “QuickDraw” (Hulu) “10 Items” (TBS) “Jailbait (Crackle) and “Memron” (Slamdance award-winner). With Lehr starring and Howler directing, the team completed comedy pilots “Let It Ride,” (Comedy Central), “Retreat!” (NBC), “Team McPhearson (Fox) and “King of Beers” (EUE/Sokolow). The team’s script/development deals include “The Loop” (HBO), “Troubadour” (MTV), “Life on Mars” (Sony/BBC), and “LARP” (Echo Lake), Tommy Chong’s Pipe Dreams (TBS).

John has appeared in numerous television series, including “Friends” and was a series regular on “Jesse,” both for Warner Brothers/NBC. His feature film roles include “The Sweetest Thing,” and three Noah Baumbach films, “Kicking and Screaming,” “Mr. Jealousy,” and “Highball.”

John’s hosting credits include “News Weasels” for E!; “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” for ABC; CBS’ special “Clash of the Commercials” with co-host Heidi Klum; and “John Lehr’s Movie Club” for TBS.

A recovering alcoholic and drug addict, Lehr is a seasoned monologist and comedian who speaks openly about his twenty plus years of sobriety. Under the banner “Cold. Sober. Comedy.” Lehr performs and MC’s at fundraisers, non-profits and sober communities about his personal/career struggles, his continuing sober journey and the importance of an authentic sense of humor. Lehr recently debuted his newest monologue “Wait, I Have to Give a Crap About Other People?” at the Annual Sober St. Paddy’s Day Comedy Night for the Atlanta Caron Treatment Center.”

Lehr’s critically acclaimed “Comedic Lectures” solo performances have had sold out runs in LA and New York. He is also a respected improvisational performer having worked at the Organic Theater and Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago, the Montreal Comedy Festival, Chicago Improvisational Festival and multiple venues in Los Angeles and New York. Lehr regularly performs stand-up comedy and MC/Hosts events around the country.

John is married to author Jennifer Lehr with whom he has two children. The Lehrs reside in Los Angeles.

For more information on John, including booking: info@johnlehr.com

https://johnlehr.com/

SEASON 3 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATE49 PROMO CODE FOR A DISCOUNTED ONE ON ONE COACHING SESSION.  

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly interviews actress Amy Argyle. Amy has been a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry since beginning her career in Dallas in 2001. Now based in Los Angeles, Amy has appeared in over 150 commercials, numerous TV shows including a recent appearance on ABC and Hulu's "9-1-1," and both studio and indie films. Her notable voice work includes roles in the drama podcasts "Batman Unburied" Seasons 1 and 2, "DUST," and an upcoming project with Amazon. A two-time film festival award winner, one of her acclaimed films is set to be featured at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival in The American Pavilion.

Besides her screen achievements, Amy has been active in theater, with her latest stage work being an award-nominated play she produced and starred in during the 2019 Hollywood Fringe Festival. This play was translated into English from Spanish after Amy was inspired by a performance she saw in Mexico City.

Offstage, Amy is deeply committed to personal growth and healing. She shares her journey of overcoming childhood traumas and transforming her life through a deeper connection with spirituality and mindset changes. Recently certified as a Trauma Informed Therapeutic Breathwork Guide, Amy conducts private and group sessions in Los Angeles, aiding others in their paths to authenticity.

Amy is also the founder of Argyle Apothecary, a line of homemade organic skincare products, enhancing her diverse professional portfolio.

SEASON 2 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATEITPOD PROMO CODE TO GRAB A FREE DROP IN GYM AND ELITE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.

IG: @amy.argyle

@argyle_collective 

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly sits down with the talented actress Camille Chen to explore her journey of embracing cultural identity, resilience, and success in the acting world. Camille shares her personal experiences as a Taiwanese-American actress, discussing how her heritage has influenced her career and the importance of authentic representation in Hollywood.

From her unexpected beginnings and landing her first paid acting job in *Miss Congeniality* to achieving rapid success in the competitive LA market, Camille opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her path. She delves into the challenges and triumphs of working with industry giants, her unique approach to commercial versus theatrical auditions, and the vital role that improvisation plays in her craft.

Listeners will gain valuable insights as Camille discusses staying resilient in the face of rejection, maintaining a balanced personal life amidst the highs and lows of the industry, and the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in performance. Aspiring actors will find inspiration and practical advice on navigating setbacks, embracing their unique backgrounds, and staying motivated in the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

https://camillechen.com/

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A creative at heart, Grace Voorhees chose to leave a career she had been building for close to 10 years, to follow her passion and pursue a career within the entertainment industry. Grace gained her experience at UPMT Agency before becoming a full-time agent at Daniel Hoff Agency.  She has now been with DHA for almost 3 years. Grace's most rewarding moments as an agent come with the collaborative atmosphere and the excitement of being a part of the creative process to help her clients succeed. When Grace is not spending time with her dogs, Theodore and Spud, she can be found attending concerts and music festivals, going to trivia nights with friends, and producing music videos for independent artists.

Marta Parrillo’s background in Radio/Television and Cinema Production set the stage for her career as a Commercial/Print Agent when she joined the Daniel Hoff Agency (LA) in 2017.  In September 2022, she relocated south to co-open the Atlanta branch of DHA as Director of SE Theatrical Division. The passion for creating & comradery amongst fellow agents, talent, casting has allowed Marta to thrive and she brings that support and enthusiasm to the “Hollywood of the South.” An Avid Nicolas Cage fan, her beloved cat is named Castor Troy (from “Face/Off”)!

SEASON 3 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATE49 PROMO CODE FOR A DISCOUNTED ONE ON ONE COACHING SESSION. 

In this episode of 'Slate It It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly interviews distinguished guest, Eddie Blackwell. An accomplished African American actor hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Eddie made the bold move to Los Angeles where he initially carved a niche for himself in television post-production. His work spanned across various daytime talk shows and HGTV programming. However, seeking a path that resonated more deeply with his passion, Eddie transitioned to acting.

Over the past eight years, Eddie's remarkable talents have been showcased in an array of commercials for notable brands such as Healthcare.gov, Valspar, TD Insurance, State Farm, and Trust & Will. His dynamic presence has also graced the small screen with co-starring roles in popular TV series including "Lucifer," "S.W.A.T.," "Danger Force," "Bel-Air," and most recently, "9-1-1."

To connect with Eddie and keep up with his latest projects, follow him on Instagram at @ReadyEddieBlackwell, and on Twitter at @ReadyEddieBwell. Join us as we dive into his journey through the entertainment industry, the lessons learned, and the insights gained along the way.

SEASON 2 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATEITPOD PROMO CODE TO GRAB A FREE DROP IN GYM AND ELITE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.

IG: @readyeddieblackwell

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Becky Wu of Orangestreet Casting started as an assistant and worked her way up to partner after which she branched out and formed her own casting company. She is a transplant from Oakland and studied theater in college before moving to Hollwyood in the mid 2000's.  In addition to casting, she is also an actress who has been on Hawaii 5-0, American Horror Story, Desperate Housewives and countless other shows. Her furbaby Sam is her main squeeze and what she believes life is all about!

Follow Orangestreet Casting @orangestreetcasting

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Jesse Hsu began his career in entertainment in New York where he studied with UCB and after moving to Los Angeles a few years ago, he has booked a variety of commercials with multiple casting agencies and worked with some amazing brands and directors. He has had commercial training with AHC and Killian's and voiceover classes at Real Voice LA and Kalmenson.

In 2022, he was a guest star in a web series, Millie & Maddie and also starred in his first feature film, "Starring Jerry As Himself" which premiered at the 2022 Slamdance Film Festival and now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

Follow Jesse on his Instagram @heyjessehsu where he chronicles his acting journey and food adventures.

Check out his family’s film “Starting Jerry As Himself” available on Amazon prime and Apple TV.

Hire Jesse for photoshoots: food and bev, real estate, corporate events, lifestyle portraits 

 I'm your host, Catherine Donnelly, and I've worked in casting and as commercial actor for over 8 years.  My goal is to demystify the secrets of this career. With thousands of people vying for a single role, how can you increase your chances of becoming that ONE?

Get ready to elevate your auditions, perfect the art of the slate, and unveil the path to becoming a sought-after commercial actor.

Subscribe now and never miss an episode. Follow us  on instagram @slateitpod.

In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," Catherine Donnelly interviews Pooja Shah, a first-generation Indian-American, full-time actress, wife, and mother. Her credits include How to Get Away with Murder, New Girl, The L Word: Gen Q, and 9-1-1 opposite Angela Bassett. You can see her on the highly-anticipated Peacock series, Apples Never Fall, which premiered March 14, starring Annette Benning. About a decade ago, Pooja pivoted from a promising career in marriage and family therapy to taking a chance as a commercial actor. She’s gone on to represent every friggin’ brand you can think of. Name it, she’s probably been in a commercial for it.

SEASON 2 IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COMMERCIAL CLUB, USE SLATEITPOD PROMO CODE TO GRAB A FREE DROP IN GYM AND ELITE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.

http://www.thepoojashah.com/

IG: ThisisPoojaShah

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The Commercial Club

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In this episode of 'Slate It It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly is back with talented actor Eddie Blackwell as they take a deep dive into commercial audition technique! Eddie shares his process for script analysis, creating compelling "moment before" and "moment after" scenes, and setting the right mindset before entering the audition room.

Discover tips for excelling in spokesperson auditions, the importance of improv skills, and how to navigate challenges during auditions. Eddie offers valuable advice for aspiring actors on improving their techniques and boosting their booking rates.

Learn about the importance of putting in time and reps, embracing teamwork, and using vulnerability in performances. Eddie emphasizes the fun in the journey and staying motivated, reminding us that success is just around the corner. Tune in for expert advice and inspiration from Eddie Blackwell to elevate your commercial audition game!

IG: @readyeddieblackwell

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The Commercial Club

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews Kirkland Moody of Clockwork Casting. They discuss putting 100% effort into your dreams, how casting preps a commercial job, the importance of having an updated resume and footage on your Casting Networks profile, finding “the story” in commercial copy, callback mentality, how to not mindfuck yourself during avails and more!

For 29+ years, Kirkland Moody has been a workhorse in the entertainment business. His breadth of experience from actor and casting associate to session director and casting director gives him a bedrock foundation for his current work with Clockwork Casting.

Kirkland got his start in Orlando, Florida when he worked with Herb Mandell casting films, TV, commercials, industrials, and starting an extras company. Upon moving to Los Angeles, he stepped directly into casting with Danny Goldman for 4 years. He then helped open AKA Talent Agency as their first employee, then moved back to casting working with Beth Holmes Casting. In 2002, he went freelance working with such casting directors as Dan Bell, Lisa Fields, Cathi Carlton, RMB Casting, Shane Casting, ASG Casting, and then primarily with Francene Selkirk.

During this period, he was also a casting director for a variety of films, pilots commercials and music videos, including working with James Moll on the Steven Spielberg project “Oswiecim: Auschwitz” for the Shoah Foundation, a film permanently installed at the Auschwitz Memorial.

Also during this time, Kirkland was an actor in 40 commercials, so he truly understands being on both sides of the camera.

As a casting associate or session director, Kirkland has worked with: The Coen Brothers, Larry Charles, Harold Einstein, Tom Kuntz, Craig Gillespie, Zach Braff, Brian Billow, Douglas Avery, Chris Smith, Mark Pellington, Rosey, Joe Pytka, Benji Weinstein, Nicolai Fuglsig, Aaron Stoller, Tony Kaye, Matt Smukler, Chris Wilcha, Brent Thomas, The Doctor Twins, Fred Goss, Trish Sie, Phil Joanou, Fred Savage, Steve Rogers, Dave Merhar, David McNally, Zach Math, Rob Pritts, Sean Ehringer, Nick Ball, Kevin Thomas, Renny Maslow, Boris Damast, Tom Routson, Ray Dillman, John Mastromonaco, Kinka Usher, Roger Donaldson, Mark Romanek, Brad Parker, Alan White, Marcus McCollum, David Kellogg, Lisa Rubisch , Paul Dektor, Sam Jones and Henry Winkler.

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For actor questions: support@castingapp.com

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Founded by Hank Perlman and Bryan Buckley, Hungry Man Productions has consistently been listed among the top commercial production companies in the world since its inception. You may know Hank as the creative mind behind the “This is Sportscenter” campaign for ESPN, a campaign that is still going strong more than 20 years later. And Bryan sometimes goes by a different name: King of the Super Bowl, as multiple news publications have taken to calling him. He has directed well over 50 commercials that have aired during The Big Game over his career.

Hungry Man began its multi-decade run with television commercials but have since become one of the leading production companies for online ads and social media branding racking up millions of views on YouTube and Facebook monthly and producing some of the most viral commercials to ever hit the internet.

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Based in North San Diego, the Salas family has achieved an astonishing feat, booking a whopping 11 commercials and securing 4 print jobs in just the last year and a half. Their incredible journey doesn't stop there – they've also made their mark on television by participating in two game shows and emerging victorious on both occasions. But that's not all; this engaging family's unique story includes the delightful addition of 2 rescue dogs and a charming flock of 6 rescue chickens, which even lay vibrant green eggs. Tune in to discover the secrets behind their commercial success, their love for animals, and the adventures of this extraordinary family that is living their dream in the world of entertainment. 

Follow the Salas Family @thesalaspack

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In this episode of 'Slate It Till You Make It,' host Catherine Donnelly interviews returning guest Sean Spann: an actor, teacher, private coach and VO dubbing artist born and raised outside St. Louis, MO. An LA resident for almost 17 years, he's worked as an actor in television, film, commercials, and stage. TV/Film credits include The Little Things, Little America, Shameless, General Hospital, and Jane the Virgin. He's recently been seen in commercials or ad campaigns for Volkswagen, Disney, and Delta Airlines. He's dubbed central characters in Max's 'On The Spectrum' and Amazon's 'The Corruption Game', and in 2023, played Brutus in 'Julius Caesar' in his 7th season at the New Swan Shakespeare Festival. He's instructed Voice, Speech, Movement, Shakespeare on both the college and conservatory level, and privately coaches actors for auditions, voice, and accent modification. Sean earned a BFA in Acting from the University of Evansville, and an MFA in Acting from UC Irvine. 

THE BEST VOICE AND SPEECH PDF EVER

Insta: @seanspanntastic (personal), @spannvoiceandspeech (professional)  coaching and private class website: www.seanspann.com

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews Katie Taylor of Taylor Casting. Together, they debunks myths and reveal the realities of a sustainable commercial acting career. They discuss self-tapes versus in-person auditions and what is the "new normal," how to interpret audition deadlines and the submission process.

Today’s industry guest is Katie Taylor of Taylor Casting. Katie has been a casting director of over 25 years. Before working in casting, Katie was a stunt woman for film & tv. She holds thousands of casting credits to her name – like Google, Mercedes, Amazon, Dove, Gucci, VISA, Apple, Hilton, Disney, and Nike. 

Follow Taylor Casting on IG at @TaylorCasting

• Paying your dues, loving the work, investing your time - prove that you like the job. It’s not about the money or the wins, it’s about the work!
• Myths about “the commercial look”
• Self tapes vs. In-Person
• Casting can now see many more people BECAUSE of self tapes
• Do all self tapes get watched?
• What does a GOOD self tape look like?
• What NOT to do in a self tape…
• What does “AUDITION DUE 10am or ASAP” really mean?
• How Katie sifts through thousands of submissions
• How to build rapport with commercial casting directors who use social media
• Can actors really make a full time living at commercial acting?

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, join host Catherine Donnelly as she sits down with Kazandra Santana, the multi-talented creator of Line Runner. With over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry, Kazandra shares insights gleaned from her diverse background as an actor, casting professional, and commercial veteran. Having honed her craft at renowned studios in Los Angeles and New York City, Kazandra brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, offering listeners a glimpse into her journey from aspiring actor to seasoned industry expert. Tune in to discover Kazandra's invaluable tips, tricks, and anecdotes.

Line Runner Tapes

Line Runner IG

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The Commercial Club

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host Catherine Donnelly shares her Top 10 Self-Tape Tips to help actors stand out, impress casting, and book more work. From mastering your frame and lighting to delivering authentic, high-energy reads, Catherine breaks down exactly what commercial casting directors are looking for—and the biggest self-tape mistakes to avoid. She also reveals why the first three seconds of your tape matter most, how to make sure your eyelines feel natural, and the subtle tweaks that can make your performance pop on screen. Plus, Catherine shares an exciting opportunity for actors ready to take their self-tapes to the next level: her upcoming Self Tape Intensive, a four-week coaching experience designed to give actors personalized feedback and the confidence to book more jobs. If you’re tired of feeling like your tapes disappear into the void, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss!

Apply to the March Self Tape Intensive Here!

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews Becky Wu of Orangestreet Casting. They discuss the impending SAG strike and if it will impact commercials, the great self tape debate, taping technicalities, OWNING your audition, the other side of callbacks, how to create a sense of "wonderment," and the importance of having a full life and pursuing other things.  

Becky Wu of Orangestreet Casting started as an assistant and worked her way up to partner after which she branched out and formed her own casting company. She is a transplant from Oakland and studied theater in college before moving to Hollwyood in the mid 2000's.  In addition to casting, she is also an actress who has been on Hawaii 5-0, American Horror Story, Desperate Housewives and countless other shows. Her furbaby Sam is her main squeeze and what she believes life is all about!

Follow Orangestreet Casting on IG @orangestreetcasting

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, Catherine Donnelly sits down with the multifaceted Adam Bussell, a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. As an actor, producer, and director, Adam wears many hats, co-owning the esteemed production companies DYNMC Creative and DYNMC Films. With an impressive roster of recent credits under his belt, including producing the feature film "Hayseed" (now available for streaming) and Green Day's latest music video "Dilemma," Adam's expertise shines through. Join Catherine and Adam as they delve into his latest projects, including his role in the film "Sheryl," which premiered to critical acclaim at the Dances With Films Festival in New York City. Get ready for an engaging conversation filled with insights, anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of film and television.

DYNMC CREATIVE

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The Commercial Club

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Based in North San Diego, the Salas family has achieved an astonishing feat, booking a whopping 11 commercials and securing 4 print jobs in just the last year and a half. Their incredible journey doesn't stop there – they've also made their mark on television by participating in two game shows and emerging victorious on both occasions. But that's not all; this engaging family's unique story includes the delightful addition of 2 rescue dogs and a charming flock of 6 rescue chickens, which even lay vibrant green eggs. Tune in to discover the secrets behind their commercial success, their love for animals, and the adventures of this extraordinary family that is living their dream in the world of entertainment. 

Follow the Salas Family @thesalaspack

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews Karen Ryan of Canvas Casting. Karen shares self tape wisdom, pet peeves and the importance of professionalism as an actor.  

Karen Ryan of Canvas Casting is a Commercial Casting Director based in Los Angeles. Her career started in front of the camera but she found her true calling behind the scenes in the fast-paced world of commercials. To date, Karen has cast hundreds of regional and national spots, many high-profile music videos, and several award-winning web series and short films. Karen is a proud board member of the Commercial Casting Director’s Association. She has taught many workshops and classes over the years and has always enjoyed being a mentor and advisor to actors at various levels of their careers. Discovering raw, untapped talent and watching their careers go from strength to strength has continued to be a major highlight of her casting career. In 2020 she was invited to be a judge at the longest-running film festival in Los Angeles, the prestigious ARPA Film Festival. And most recently she was a Heller Award nominee for Commercial casting director of the year 2022.

https://www.canvascasting.com/

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Breaking up with your commercial agent can feel overwhelming, but it’s an important step in taking control of your career. In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It", host Catherine Donnelly reframes the process as a strategic business decision, not a personal one. She walks listeners through key steps, including identifying why you want to make a change, understanding what you’re looking for in a new agent, weighing your options, and how to handle “the breakup” with professionalism. Catherine also shares tips for navigating the aftermath and ensuring the transition sets you up for success. If you’ve been contemplating making a change, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to handle it with clarity and grace.

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In this episode of “Slate It Till You Make It,” host Catherine Donnelly interviews commercial session director, actress and founder of the commercial club Ava Himmel. With a background in dramatic theater and improv skills honed at Second City Toronto, Ava has starred in major campaigns for brands like AT&T, McDonald’s, Dunkin' Donuts, and Toyota. For over 15 years, she’s also worked as a Session Director, guiding actors through the audition process and building relationships with top casting directors and industry pros. Now, through teaching at "Keep It Real Acting" and her own *Commercial Club*, Ava is helping actors sharpen their skills and succeed in the commercial world on a daily basis. 

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly sits down with the multitalented Nicole Ghastin, whose journey from Northern Michigan to Hollywood is nothing short of cinematic. Nicole shares tales from her early days, including her memorable role in *Coyote Ugly* and appearances on *Brooklyn 99* and *General Hospital*. Beyond the screen, Nicole opens up about her life’s unexpected turns, from finding love at an audition to balancing motherhood with a thriving acting career. Through stories of working with acclaimed directors and alongside stars like Jason Bateman and Simone Biles, Nicole offers a raw, inspiring look at making it in showbiz while staying true to oneself. Join us for a deep dive into Nicole Ghastin's remarkable journey, filled with insights, laughter, and a touch of Hollywood magic.

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IG: @nicoleghastin

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host Catherine Donnelly sits down with CPA and actor Jaclynn Cherry for an essential guide to navigating W4 paperwork and tax strategies tailored for actors and freelancers. Jaclynn, a tax expert with over 15 years of experience in public and private accounting and a creative herself, sheds light on key topics like the benefits of voluntary withholding, debunking common W4 myths, maximizing returns, and managing both W2 and 1099 income. Together, they tackle everything from leveraging deductions to handling multiple job forms and preparing for tax season, offering practical tips to help freelancers better manage their finances and avoid tax pitfalls. This episode is packed with insights to help actors thrive financially in the gig economy.

https://www.jcherrycpa.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jcherrry/

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In this special episode of "Slate It Till You Make It,"  the tables turn as our host Catherine Donnelly gets interviewed by standup comedian Stephen Cha! Cha is a Korean-American who grew up in the San Fernando Valley. He is the oldest son of two Korean immigrant entrepreneurs with one younger sister. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in Business Administration. He worked in finance for 8 years until he finally left to try his hand at stand-up because he’s overly confident and nothing fucking matters. He’s performed at clubs across Los Angeles including The Comedy Store and The Ice House.  

We begin by unraveling valuable advice for newcomers stepping into the dynamic commercial industry, exploring essential strategies for building a sustainable career path. From essential advice for newcomers to navigating auditions and agent relationships, join us as we explore the multifaceted journey of building a successful career in the entertainment industry.

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews writer, director, cinematographer and actor, Nathan Caywood. They discuss the importance of repetition, honing in on "your actor superpower," and how to view acting as a business. 

Writer, director, cinematographer and actor, Nathan Caywood is a 36 year old, corn fed midwesterner who moved to L.A. nearly 15 years ago to do improv comedy. He studied at and performed UCB, iO, and the Groundlings and through that experience became a commercial actor. But during his journey of acting in dozens of commercials, he fell in love with cameras, lenses and lighting. Nathan started directing sketches and short films around UCB with his now writing and directing partner, Echo Kellum. But it wasn't until he started working in a rental house that he realized he was truly in love with the art of cinematography. 

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host Catherine Donnelly sits down with the dynamic Killian McHugh, the mastermind behind Killian's Workshop, voted "Best Commercial Workshop" by Backstage West readers and "Best Workshop Teacher in Los Angeles." Renowned in the industry, Killian has an impressive resume—from being the go-to guy for booking commercials in Los Angeles on MTV's Made to making waves on Conan O'Brien's show in 2014, an instant classic according to the Huffington Post. With over 5 million hits on YouTube, Killian's impact is undeniable. Delving into the early 2000s, Killian's journey in commercial casting has spanned every role imaginable, from lobby assistant to session director and ultimately to Casting Director at a top LA office. Recognizing his passion for helping actors secure roles, Killian opened his own studio on Melrose, dedicated to teaching the art of booking and empowering actors on their journey.

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, join host Catherine Donnelly as she sits down with Leah McCormick, a multifaceted performer and entrepreneur. Leah shares insights from her dynamic career journey, including her success as a voiceover artist, her memorable roles in film and television, and her entrepreneurial ventures with McCormick Entertainment and Story-Centric Voice Casting. Discover Leah's passion for empowering aspiring actors through creative coaching and her commitment to helping them shine in the industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with valuable lessons and anecdotes from Leah's rich and diverse experiences in entertainment.

Coaching: https://leahmccormick.com/coaching/

VO Casting: https://www.linkedin.com/company/story-centric-voice-casting/?viewAsMember=true

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-mccormick-43587055/

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews full time actor Jeff Heapy. They discuss the mistakes he made early in his career, the point at which he started to take the business seriously, his unique approach to commercial copy, having a relaxed mindset before auditions, the key to being put on avail, tools for dealing with rejection, asking and letting go, playing the reality of the scene, and embracing your essence. 

Jeff Heapy is a theater trained actor who has starred in hundreds of commercials alongside numerous TV and film credits. He has had the pleasure of working with Francis Ford Coppola and Jordan Peele and is perhaps most recognized for his role in the Maroon 5 video “Sugar” which has over 3 billion views. He attended OCSA for musical theater and completed his B.A. in theater at UCLA. He is the proud father of identical boy twins and enjoys spending time with family and getting in a Disc Golf round whenever he can!!

https://www.lawlesscastingseminars.com/

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Katie Northlich is an actress, solo performer, improviser, writer, and performing arts coach. She is a Four Time National Monologue Champion, having written, performed and produced original work since 2001. Her solo shows have played to critical acclaim and sold out Off-Broadway houses in New York City, including the Cherry Lane Theatre.  Her work was chosen as a premiere piece in opening Stage Left Studio’s inaugural season, NYC’s only Solo Repertory theatre.   Katie's play "Two Of Them, Looking," was produced in New York in 2015, and Katie is on the fifth draft of her first novel.  As an acting, movement, and solo performance instructor, Katie has taught upward of 1000 students over 15 years in both NYC and LA, including international TV stars as well as NBA and NFL players, and she currently teaches comedy and acting at colleges, conservatories, and privately in greater LA.  Katie was a lead acting instructor at the New York Film Academy in NYC for 7 years, and was the first acting faculty member to develop and launch the academy’s improvisation curriculum in the Animation and Game Design departments.   Select Acting credits include: CBS, The Discovery Channel, Lifetime, AMC, VH1, and feature films.  Over 20 National commercials shot over past few years.  Comedy/International featured: The Groundlings, The Improv, Improv Olympic, Upright Citizen's Brigade, Comedy Central Stage, Stand Up NY, New York Comedy Club, Caroline's on Broadway, The People's Improv Theatre, The Magnet, Stage Left Studio, The Bowery Poetry Club, Gotham City Improv, Parkside Lounge, The Nuyorican Poets Cafe, Comix, The World Expo and La Sala Mirador.  As a dancer, Katie toured Europe. UC Irvine: BA, Drama.  Www.katienorthlich.com  @KatieNorthlich

In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host Catherine Donnelly sits down with CPA and financial expert Jaclynn Cherry to explore how actors can benefit from forming an LLC or S-Corp. They cover the basics of each business structure, discuss when it makes sense to incorporate, and dive into key tax-saving strategies. Jaclynn explains how to manage self-employment taxes, pay yourself from your business account, and make sense of deductions specific to actors. If you’re ready to keep more of your earnings and simplify your finances as a working actor, this episode is packed with valuable insights just for you.

https://www.jcherrycpa.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jcherrry/

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In this episode of "Slate It Till You Make It," host Catherine Donnelly sits down with Marisa Munoz of M Casting. Marisa's journey in the entertainment industry started in Los Angeles as a dancer, where her passion for creativity and storytelling began. Transitioning to behind the camera into production, with an eye for beauty and unique talent, she discovered her calling in the world of casting. She fell in love with discovering new talent and bringing creative visions to life. Marisa has successfully cast a wide array of major brand commercials, print campaigns, music videos for renowned artists, and award- winning films. Her company,  M Casting Worldwide, currently has offices in both Los Angeles and Nashville. Combining her extensive experience with a passion for talent & development, she now leaves her mark on projects around the globe casting projects worldwide.  

With three decades of experience, Marisa has built an impressive resume, casting commercials and print work for major brands including AT&T, Sephora, Old Navy, Nissan,Armani and Hilton to name a few. She has also cast  music videos for renowned artists including Laniey Wilson, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton and Kenny Chesney, and award-winning films with the most recent being Ride (Starring C. Thomas Howell, Annabeth Gish, Jake Allyn, Forrie J. Smith). Her expertise spans industries and genres, leaving a dynamic mark on every project she touches.

In her downtime, Marisa’s zest for life continues—You can find her checking out the latest restaurants, volunteering at the Humane Society, spending time with friends, or taking long walks with her beloved dog and partner in crime, Marlowe!  From casting calls to creative collaborations, Marisa’s journey is driven by her unwavering commitment to storytelling and the celebration of exceptional talent.

https://www.mcasting.com/ 

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IG: @teejrado

Juniper Commercial - starring Catherine & TJ

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In this two part episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host, Catherine Donnelly interviews four-time Emmy Award-winning casting director, John Frank Levey. He has cast iconic television shows such as China Beach, ER, The West Wing and Shameless, as well as dozens of other television series, miniseries, TV movies, digital series, video games and feature films. John is also a five-time winner of the Casting Society of America’s Artios Award and the recipient of its prestigious Hoyt Bowers Award, given for excellence in casting and outstanding contributions to the casting profession. Right for the Role is his first book. After decades at Warner Bros, he became Vice President of Casting for John Wells Productions before launching his own casting company. Throughout his career, he has been a proud collaborator with many great writers, actors, producers and directors—he is most gratified for the friendships he’s forged and the talent he has helped foster. Personally, John is most proud of his children, Oliver Leo and Joanna Claire. Ladies and gentlemen, the John Frank Levey.

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https://www.johnfranklevey.com

IG: john_frank_levey_

In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, host Catherine Donnelly sits down with John Fulton, a multi-talented comedian, musician, and actor, to discuss his unique journey through the entertainment industry. From his early days as a non-basketball team captain in Topsfield, MA, to DJing a jazz show at the University of Rhode Island, and eventually hosting Must Love Cats on Animal Planet, John’s career has seen plenty of twists and turns. Now, he's thriving in the world of commercials and is a member of the comedy band Camp Friends, who just released their new album Real/Mature. Tune in as John shares hilarious anecdotes about being humbled in Hollywood, reveals the secrets to booking commercial gigs, and talks about embracing the unexpected path to success.

https://www.thejohnfulton.com/ 

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In this episode of Slate It Till You Make It, join Catherine Donnelly for an exhilarating conversation with the multi-talented and ever-entertaining Meghann Murphy. Meghann takes us on a whirlwind journey, revealing her exceptional ability to balance the responsibilities of parenthood with a thriving acting career while wholeheartedly embracing her authentic self. Meghann candidly shares her experiences, triumphs, and challenges of navigating the dynamic landscape of parenthood within the entertainment industry. 

Meghann Murphy  is an actress and writer living in Los Angeles. Some of her credits include Brooklyn Nine-Nine (NBC), Casual (Hulu), Single Parents (ABC), and dozens of national commercials. She graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a B.F.A. in Theatre and a B.A. in Journalism. 

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews full time actor and comedian Willie Macc. They discuss diversity in the commercial world, using standup skills in the audition room, and the balancing act of being a comedian and actor. 

Willie Mac is one of the few Reality TV stars to make it as working actor and comedian in Hollywood. He has over 50 million views of his standup comedy on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. He is one of the stars from the hit BET show College Hill: Virgin Island. He sold his pilot HGTV show “My Flipping Family,” where he and his brother buy and flip homes around St. Louis. He’s been in over 50 national commercials including Progressive, Bank of America, Kia, and more. He now travels as a stand up comic and you can see him frequently at the Comedy Store and Laugh Factory in Hollywood.

Check out Willie on IG @williemacc

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Spencer Kramber hails from Glenwood, Minnesota. Over the years, he’s carved a notable niche for himself in the entertainment industry with a blend of talent, dedication, and a deep-rooted passion for the craft. His journey into acting began with a solid foundation in Theatre Arts at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he honed his skills and laid the groundwork for his career.

Eager to expand his horizons, Spencer pursued further studies at the prestigious UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, where he earned his Master of Fine Arts in Performing Arts. This rigorous training equipped him with a refined understanding of his art and prepared him for the challenges of the professional acting world.

Spencer’s career gained significant traction with his role in the gripping drama “You Can’t Run Forever,” where he shared the screen with the acclaimed J.K. Simmons under the direction of Michelle Schumacher. His compelling performance showcased his ability to inhabit complex characters with depth and authenticity.

In addition to his feature film work, Spencer’s talent shone brightly in the Oscar-qualified short film “Sarajin,” directed by Justin Kim Woosok. His nuanced portrayal as an Alaskan crab fisherman in this captivating narrative further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor capable of delivering powerful performances across various genres.

Among his accolades is the award-winning short film “Pop Music,” directed by Patrick Muhlberger, where Spencer’s humorous portrayal as a katana wielding, over-protective father amused film festival audiences across the country.

Spencer’s television credits include appearances on hit shows such as “Criminal Minds,” “Them,” and “The Young and the Restless.”

Off screen, Spencer is a dedicated acting teacher and coach, sharing his expertise and passion with aspiring performers. His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering creativity has made him a respected figure in the acting community.

In his personal life, Spencer embraces his role as the fourth of five children and takes immense pride in being a devoted father, finding joy and inspiration in his family life. With his talent, dedication, and genuine love for the craft, Spencer Kramber continues to make a lasting impact in the world of entertainment, captivating audiences and leaving a legacy of memorable performances.”

keepitrealacting.com

actwithspencer.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzF_fQqANYg&feature=youtu.be

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In this episode, Catherine curates the most valuable insights gleaned from the initial ten interviews, meticulously tailored to cater to emerging actors.

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In this episode of 'Slate It Till You Make It,' host Catherine Donnelly interviews Sean Spann, an actor, teacher, private coach and VO dubbing artist born and raised outside St. Louis, MO. An LA resident for almost 17 years, he's worked as an actor in television, film, commercials, and stage. TV/Film credits include The Little Things, Little America, Shameless, General Hospital, and Jane the Virgin. He's recently been seen in commercials or ad campaigns for Volkswagen, Disney, and Delta Airlines. He's dubbed central characters in Max's 'On The Spectrum' and Amazon's 'The Corruption Game', and in 2023, played Brutus in 'Julius Caesar' in his 7th season at the New Swan Shakespeare Festival. He's instructed Voice, Speech, Movement, Shakespeare on both the college and conservatory level, and privately coaches actors for auditions, voice, and accent modification. Sean earned a BFA in Acting from the University of Evansville, and an MFA in Acting from UC Irvine. 

IG: @seanspanntastic (personal), @spannvoiceandspeech (professional)  coaching and private class website: www.seanspann.com

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In this episode of Slate it Till You Make it, Catherine interviews commercial comedy agent Adam Lieblein. They discuss commercial contracts, utilizing comedy to enhance auditions, the importance of networking, and communication.

Adam Lieblein is a graduate of the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, and spent eight years as a producer of films, commercials and television projects until 1993 when he opened a talent agency. He was the president of Acme Talent & Literary for sixteen years. At the end of 2008, Acme's several divisions in LA and NY were sold to other agencies, and he returned to the business of producing and teaching. In 2015, after teaching the Business of Acting at UCLA for 20 years, he received the Outstanding Instructor of the Year Award from the Entertainment Studies division at UCLA Extension. From 2011 to 2017, he served as a Lead Project Manager for Casting Networks International, then from 2017 until 2020 he served as the Director of Business Development for Breakdown Services and Actors Access. After leaving the software industry, Adam joined Modern Artists Entertainment as a talent agent, running a commercial comedy division that specializes in representing stand-up comedians. 

Connect with Adam on IG @acmeadam

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In this episode of 'Slate It Till You Make It,' host, Catherine Donnelly interviews Erin Alexis, a versatile actress, writer, and producer who honed her craft in New York City, earning an esteemed MFA in acting from Columbia University. Combining classical training with sharp wit, Erin captivates audiences both on stage and screen. Her credits include acclaimed shows like STATION ELEVEN, NCIS LOS ANGELES, and TRUE BLOOD, alongside a string of successful commercial campaigns for brands such as Allstate, Hulu, and Google. As a creator, Erin shines, having written, produced, and starred in the award-winning pilot MODERATELY PUT TOGETHER, and the indie short RED FLAG RESURRECTION. With a wealth of theatrical experience and a reputation for professionalism, Erin is a sought-after talent beloved by industry professionals.

@iamerinalexis

https://www.erinalexis.net/

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The Commercial Club

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