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. 16 HRS AGO

    Ep. 139: Here's Why You Should NOT Get an Acting Agent... Yet

    Are You Really Ready for an Acting Agent? Think signing with an agent is the next step in your acting career? You might be surprised to learn that rushing into representation could actually slow you down. In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we break down exactly how to determine if you’re truly ready for an agent or if you should continue building your career on your own first. If you’re not getting auditions, don’t know your casting type, or lack professional materials, you may need to wait before reaching out to representation. On the other hand, if you’re consistently booking work, have a strong personal brand, and are overwhelmed by career management, an agent might be the right move. In this episode, you’ll discover: The key signs that you’re NOT ready for an agent and what to do insteadHow to know when the timing is right to start seeking representationA specific checklist to help you evaluate whether you should start looking for an agent now or focus on career-building first Tune in now to ensure you’re making the right moves for your acting career! Contact & Resources: Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: martinbentsen.comHeadshots: cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: actorscreenershoot.comEdit Footage Into a Reel: demoreelsnyc.com This show 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.

    6 min

  2. 3 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 138: 11 Mistakes Actors Make When Reaching Out to Acting Agents (And How to Avoid Them!)

    Are you making critical mistakes when reaching out to agents? The wrong approach can shut doors before they even open. Reaching out to agents is a critical step in growing your acting career - but one wrong move can land your email in the trash. In this episode, we uncover the biggest mistakes actors make when pitching themselves and how to avoid them. If you've been struggling to get responses from agents, this episode is for you! You'll discover: The common email mistake that makes agents ignore you instantly.Why being too vague - or too pushy - can hurt your chances.The marketing material misstep that signals you’re not ready for representation. Want to ensure agents take you seriously? Tune in now and start reaching out the right way! Contact & Resources: 📧 Email: martin@cityheadshots.com 🌐 Website: martinbentsen.com 📸 Headshots: cityheadshots.com 🎥 Shoot Footage for Your Reel: actorscreenershoot.com ✂️ Edit Footage Into a Reel: demoreelsnyc.com This show 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.

    5 min

  3. 27 FEB

    Ep. 137: How to Join SAG-AFTRA FAST Through Non-Traditional Methods (background acting, etc.)

    Want to take your acting career to the next level? Becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible opens doors to bigger roles and better pay. But how can you get there quickly? Many actors struggle with the slow process of landing a union-speaking role, but faster options exist. In this episode, we break down three proven ways to speed up your eligibility. What you'll learn: Why commercial acting is a shortcut to union status.How background work can earn you SAG-AFTRA vouchers.How other union memberships might unlock faster eligibility. We’ll also explain why staying SAG-Eligible before joining might be the smartest move. Don’t miss this episode—it could change your acting career! Contact & Resources: Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: martinbentsen.comHeadshots: cityheadshots.comShoot Footage: actorscreenershoot.comEdit Reels: demoreelsnyc.com This show 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.

    6 min

  4. 24 FEB

    Ep. 136: Is Your Eyeline Sabotaging Your Acting Auditions? Here is How To Fix It NOW

    Your eyeline can make or break your audition, but many actors don’t realize when they’re getting it wrong. Are you staring too long in one spot? Looking too far off-camera? Or worse - giving "floating eyes" that distract casting directors? In this episode, we go over simple yet powerful techniques to make sure your eyeline enhances your performance instead of ruining your chances. You'll discover: The perfect eyeline placement for natural, engaging performances.How to subtly shift your gaze to reflect emotions and deepen your scene.The biggest eyeline mistakes actors make - and how to avoid them. A small fix can make a huge difference. Hit play now and start booking more roles! 📩 Contact: martin@cityheadshots.com 🌐 Website: martinbentsen.com 🎭 Additional Resources: HeadshotsShoot Footage for Your ReelEdit Footage Into a Reel This show 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.

    6 min

  5. 20 FEB

    Ep. 135: Here's Exactly What Acting Agents are Looking For

    Are you struggling to get an agent or wondering why some actors land representation while others don’t? In this episode, we break down exactly what agents are looking for and how you can stand out in a crowded industry. You’ll discover: The key branding mistake that makes agents overlook talented actorsHow to present professional materials that make a lasting impressionThe balance between confidence and humility that agents love Tune in now and learn what it really takes to get an agent to say yes! 📩 Email: martin@cityheadshots.com 🌎 Website: martinbentsen.com 🎭 Additional Resources: Headshots: cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: actorscreenershoot.comEdit Footage Into a Reel: demoreelsnyc.com This show 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.

    6 min

  6. 17 FEB

    Ep. 134: A Day in the Life of an Acting Agent (What They Don't Want You to Know)

    Ever wondered what agents actually do all day? If you want to work with an agent who truly supports your career, understanding their daily routine is key. The more you know about how agents manage their time, handle challenges, and build industry relationships, the better you can position yourself to get signed and succeed. In this episode, you’ll learn: What agents do from morning to night, including submissions, negotiations, and networkingThe biggest challenges agents face and how you can make their job easierSimple ways to build a strong relationship with your agent and increase your chances of success Listen now to learn how to work smarter with agents and stand out in the industry. 📩 Contact: martin@cityheadshots.com 🌐 Website: martinbentsen.com 📸 Headshots: cityheadshots.com 🎬 Shoot Your Reel: actorscreenershoot.com 🎞️ Edit Your Reel: demoreelsnyc.com This show 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.

    9 min

  7. 13 FEB

    Ep. 133: Habits That Will Help You Book Major Acting Roles and Land Great Agents

    What habits set successful actors apart? In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, We explore the hidden habits that help actors grow their careers and increase their chances of signing with great agents. If you're an aspiring screen actor, you’ll discover what separates successful actors from the rest—and how you can adopt these same strategies to stand out. Learn how to: Treat your acting career like a business, from professional branding to networking and audition tracking.Master your type and brand to align perfectly with the roles you want to book.Stay ahead by continually improving your craft, building meaningful connections, and responding to opportunities with professionalism and speed. If you're ready to take control of your acting journey, this episode is packed with strong tips to help you build momentum and confidence. Tune in now to unlock the habits that could transform your career. Contact Information: Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: martinbentsen.comAdditional Resources:HeadshotsShoot Footage for Your ReelEdit Footage Into a Reel This show 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.

    9 min

  8. 10 FEB

    Ep. 132: Forget Complicated Acting Self-Tapes - Why Keeping It Simple Wins Every Time!

    Are Your Self-Tapes Costing You Roles? Discover the most common mistakes actors make when self-taping and learn how to avoid them to stand out to casting directors. In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, host Martin Bentsen unpacks the major DON’TS of self-tapes, from lighting and sound issues to performance mistakes that could ruin your chances of landing a role. You’ll learn: How to create a clean, professional setup that makes casting directors focus on you, not your background.The secret to delivering a strong performance that grabs attention from the start.Why attention to detail - like fixing wrinkled backdrops - can make or break your submission. Ready to elevate your self-tapes and book more roles? Tune in now! Contact Info: Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: https://www.martinbentsen.comAdditional Resources:Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com This show 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
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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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