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 Podcast

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. 1 DAY AGO

    Ep. 90: Steve Buscemi's Secrets to Becoming a Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor (Boardwalk Empire)

    What do Reservoir Dogs and Boardwalk Empire have in common? Steve Buscemi’s unique path to stardom! Steve Buscemi’s career started in indie films, but it was his consistent, compelling performances that caught the eye of top directors like Quentin Tarantino. His journey shows that even small roles can lead to big breaks if you give it your all. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Steve Buscemi transitioned from stand-up comedy to serious acting.Why indie films played a critical role in his rise to fame.The power of persistence and being “famous to the right people.” Want to follow in Buscemi’s footsteps? Tune in now to discover how indie film performances can launch your 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

  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 89: A Trick to Stand Out to Casting Directors... Before You Even Audition

    Want to make sure casting directors remember your name—even before you step into the audition room? With so many actors competing for the same roles, blending in can be a real problem. But with one unique strategy, you can leave a lasting impression on casting directors by showing that you care about their work and their projects. This episode will teach you: How to find key casting directors and come up with a unique way to stand out.How to craft a personalized submission note that grabs their attention.Why this strategy can significantly boost your callback chances. Ready to make casting directors remember you? Listen now and learn how a simple, tweak to your submissions process can help you get more callbacks! 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.

    8 min

  3. 5 SEPT

    Ep. 88: How to Create a Strong Video Slate to Land Auditions & Capture Acting Agents' Attention

    Did you know your slate video could make or break your chances of landing a role? In a world where casting directors are growing skeptical of headshots due to over-editing and AI, a well-made slate video is your chance to showcase your true personality and look on camera. By listening to this episode, you’ll discover: How to craft a professional slate video that stands out to casting directors.The essential details to include, from your name to your character type and more.How to tailor your slate for specific auditions and general use on casting sites. Want to boost your audition success rate? Tune in now to master your slate video and start booking more roles! 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.

    16 min

  4. 3 SEPT

    Ep. 87: Tips for Acting in Film & Getting Auditions from Working Actress Tracee Loran

    Ever wondered how some actors seem to effortlessly climb the career ladder in the industry? This episode reveals proven strategies from Tracee Loran, a successful working actress, to help you overcome career hurdles and find your path to success: Learn the right time to hire a publicist and even discover ways to get one for free.Get insider tips on finding mentors and advisors who can guide you through your acting career.Find out what to do when you're feeling stuck or ready to quit to reignite your passion for acting. Listen to the full episode now to unlock the strategies that could take your acting career to the next level! You can find Tracee Loran on TikTok, YouTube, and 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.

    37 min

  5. 29 AUG

    Ep. 86: Denzel Washington's Secrets to Becoming a World-Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor (Cry Freedom)

    Want to know how Denzel Washington became a famous actor and what you can learn from his journey? In this episode, we explore Denzel Washington's early career, his breakout role in Cry Freedom, and the key lessons from his path to success that you can apply to your own acting career. Discover how Denzel Washington transitioned from a biology student to an acclaimed actor.Learn about the critical decision Denzel made that defined his career and set him up for long-term success.Understand the importance of integrity and self-belief in making tough career choices. Tune in now to learn how Denzel Washington's career journey can inspire and guide your own path in the acting industry! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.comMartin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.comHeadshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit 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

  6. 26 AUG

    Ep. 85: Three Traits You MUST Develop to Book Major SAG-AFTRA Roles and Auditions

    Do you want to know the only three qualities you need to build a successful acting career? In this episode, Martin reveals The Success Pyramid, a concept that outlines the three essential traits every aspiring actor must develop to make it far in the industry. Here's what you'll learn: How mastering your craft as an Artist is the foundation of a successful acting career.The importance of being a Manager who is organized, strategic, and professional in every aspect.How embracing the Entrepreneurial spirit can propel you to the top by taking risks and believing in yourself. Tune in now to learn about the three critical traits needed for a successful acting career and why each one is absolutely critical! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.comMartin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.comHeadshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit 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

  7. 22 AUG

    Ep. 84: How to Know if Your Acting is Really "Good Enough" to Book SAG-AFTRA Auditions

    Are you struggling to book roles and wondering if your acting ability is as good as you think it is? This episode will help you assess your acting skills accurately, determine if they need improvement, and understand if your lack of bookings is due to your acting or other factors. Discover specific ways to evaluate your acting ability, such as working with trusted coaches and analyzing your booking rate.Learn steps to improve your acting skills if they need work, including targeted 1-on-1 coaching.Understand how to identify whether your lack of bookings is due to acting skills or other elements like headshots and audition behavior. Tune in now to find out if your acting ability is holding you back and how to take specific steps to start booking more roles! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.comMartin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.comHeadshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit 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.

    9 min

  8. 19 AUG

    Ep. 83: Sigourney Weaver's Secrets to Becoming a World-Famous SAG-AFTRA Film Actor (Alien)

    Ever wondered how Sigourney Weaver became a film icon with her role in Alien? This episode dives into Sigourney Weaver's journey, revealing the steps she took to book her breakout role in Alien and how you can apply her strategies to advance your own acting career. Discover the importance of perseverance and continual training in building a successful acting career.Learn why taking small roles in indie films can lead to big opportunities.Understand how focusing on your unique strengths can help you land roles that are perfect for you. Tune in now to learn how Sigourney Weaver's path to stardom can inspire and guide your own acting journey! Contact Info and Resources Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.comMartin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.comHeadshots: https://www.cityheadshots.comShoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.comEdit 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.

    6 min
See All (90)

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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