The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA

Martin Bentsen
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The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA

Struggling to book your first speaking role in a network-level production? If so, this podcast is for you. You'll learn how to find and sign with great agents, how to start getting access to high-quality auditions, and how to book major union speaking roles. Each episode addresses specific challenges faced by aspiring screen actors, including: - What casting directors are really looking for in screen actors. - How to find and impress legit, high-level agents. - How to build strong industry connections (even if you don't know anyone yet). New episodes are released Mondays and Thursdays, each filled with tactical advice to help you work through different challenges. Host Martin Bentsen has helped over 6000 actors since 2009, and has been featured in Backstage, Casting Networks, NYU Tisch, and more Ready to dive in? Start by listening to fan-favorite Episode #14: "Where to Find Legit Auditions (Without an Agent)."

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 111: 3 Ways Struggling Film Actors Can Find Acting Work and Auditions... Despite Low Industry Production Rates

    Are you struggling to find acting gigs during the industry’s current slowdown? You don’t have to sit on the sidelines—there are ways to keep building your career right now! With production down by 40% in LA and about 20-30% in New York as of late 2024, the competition for roles is fiercer than ever. But there are still smart moves you can make to gain valuable experience, expand your network, and position yourself for future opportunities. Find out how to tap into voice acting, commercials, and industrials to keep working in the industry.Learn why indie productions and working with award-winning directors can boost your portfolio and connections.Discover the benefits of exploring other markets, like Atlanta or New Mexico, where production is more active. Listen now to uncover creative ways to find acting work even during industry slowdowns and get ready to make 2025 your breakthrough year! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    11 min

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 110: Major Red Flags That Will Make Film Acting Agents Pass on You – And How To Avoid Them

    Ever wondered what talent agents really look for when signing actors? Get insider tips from Valerie Adami, a seasoned New York talent agent! Valerie Adami brings a wealth of experience from her journey in musical theater, commercials, voice-over, and soap operas, to her role as a talent agent. She knows what makes an actor stand out—and what doesn’t. From her time as director of the Weist-Barron School for Film & TV to representing top talent, Valerie shares valuable insights for actors looking to make a lasting impression on agents: Discover what agents prioritize when considering new talent and what makes an actor irresistible to sign.Learn the major red flags agents watch for and what mistakes can make them skip over a prospective client.Get practical advice on the best ways to contact agents—and the big don'ts to avoid. Listen to this episode to learn the do’s and don’ts of reaching out to talent agents and discover what it takes to stand out in New York’s competitive acting scene. You can reach Valerie and her agency at https://sw-artists.com/ Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    37 min

  3. 18 NOV

    Ep. 109: Is Your Agent Actually Helping You? Why a Manager Could Get You MORE Film Acting Auditions

    Are you wondering if an agent or manager could help you land more auditions? The answer might surprise you! Knowing whether an agent or manager is better for your career depends on your goals and where you are in your acting journey. Many actors start with one, then add the other once they’re booking more frequently. But as casting trends shift as we head into 2025, the best option may not be what you’d expect. Learn why a developmental manager might be more beneficial early in your career than a high-level agent.Understand how today’s managers access casting networks, sometimes offering the same audition opportunities as agents.Get tips for knowing when the time is right to add an agent to your team. Listen to this episode to discover if an agent or manager is the right fit for where you are now and learn how to make a smart choice for your acting career. Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    7 min

  4. 14 NOV

    Ep. 108: Build a Thriving Acting Career & Get More Auditions - Interview with Rahti Gorfien

    Ever feel like balancing creativity with life’s demands is an impossible juggling act? Rahti Gorfien, a coach specializing in helping creatives, knows firsthand how challenging it can be to stay organized, visible, and profitable, especially for those with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits. In this episode, she shares insights drawn from her own experiences as an actor and coach to help artists like you succeed without sacrificing your unique creative spark. Discover practical steps to organize your life as a creative without stifling your creativity.Learn how to boost your visibility and start earning from your creative work.Gain insights on overcoming common emotional barriers to success, based on Rahti’s book, The Five Emotions That Stop Success. Dive into this episode to learn how to turn your creative passion into a sustainable career, and then schedule a FREE session with Rahti for personalized guidance at www.creativecallingcoaching.com. Martin's Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    46 min

  5. 11 NOV

    Ep. 107: Get More Film Acting Auditions by Creating a Stage Name

    Ever wondered if using a stage name could boost your acting career? Whether you're running into name conflicts, need to stand out online, or just want a fresh start, a stage name might be a good choice. Understanding the why and how behind stage names can help you make the best decision for your career: Discover the main reasons actors choose stage names, from union conflicts to rebranding needs.Learn the step-by-step process for selecting and securing a unique stage name that fits your brand.Understand the key legal considerations and practical steps to make your new name official across industry platforms. Listen to this episode to find out if creating a stage name could help take your acting career to the next level! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    10 min

  6. 7 NOV

    Ep. 106: Improve Your Acting Mindset & Strategy - Interview with Andrew Roth

    Ever feel like acting is one endless series of auditions, with rejections piling up? How do some actors push through and keep going, even when success feels out of reach? In today's episode, Martin Bentsen interviews Andrew Roth about his challenging journey as an actor. Many actors struggle with rejection, self-doubt, and the pressure of comparing themselves to others. Staying resilient in such a challenging field isn’t easy, but with the right mindset, actors can see signs of progress and move forward confidently. Andrew Roth shares: Proven mindset shifts that help you overcome rejection and stay motivated.Subtle signs that indicate you’re making progress—even if you don’t see it yet.Practical advice for dealing with self-doubt and comparing yourself to others. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind building resilience in acting and take your next steps with newfound confidence! Check out Andrew's at the below links: Roth's Child (www.rothschildamemoir.com) www.aroth.us www.imdb.com/name/nm1408714/ @beherenowalways(Instagram)  Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    28 min

  7. 4 NOV

    Ep. 105: How to Request an "Audition & Submissions Report" Without Offending Your Film Acting Agent

    Wondering how to ask your agent for a submissions report without making things awkward? By following the right steps, you can avoid offending them and improve your career strategy by understanding which productions you’re being submitted to. Learn how to ask for a submissions report while keeping your relationship with your agent positive.Discover how requesting this report can help you refine your brand and boost your chances of getting more auditions.Includes a detailed sample email to make the request easier and stress-free. If you’re ready to see where your submissions stand and improve your audition strategy, listen to this episode now for a step-by-step guide! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    7 min

  8. 31 OCT

    Ep. 104: How to Deal With Unsupportive Family & Friends in Your Film Acting Career

    What should you do when the people closest to you don’t support your acting dream? If you're facing resistance from family or friends who want you to get a "real job," this episode offers advice on how to communicate with them and still pursue your passion. Learn how to turn doubt into understanding and support: Discover how to have productive conversations with unsupportive loved ones without creating conflict.Learn how to build a successful acting career while managing doubt and skepticism.Get inspired by Martin's personal story of overcoming doubt and making his dream a reality. If you're struggling with unsupportive family or friends, listen to this episode now and gain the tools to handle it while staying true to your passion! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    10 min
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About

Struggling to book your first speaking role in a network-level production? If so, this podcast is for you. You'll learn how to find and sign with great agents, how to start getting access to high-quality auditions, and how to book major union speaking roles. Each episode addresses specific challenges faced by aspiring screen actors, including: - What casting directors are really looking for in screen actors. - How to find and impress legit, high-level agents. - How to build strong industry connections (even if you don't know anyone yet). New episodes are released Mondays and Thursdays, each filled with tactical advice to help you work through different challenges. Host Martin Bentsen has helped over 6000 actors since 2009, and has been featured in Backstage, Casting Networks, NYU Tisch, and more Ready to dive in? Start by listening to fan-favorite Episode #14: "Where to Find Legit Auditions (Without an Agent)."

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