Casting Confidential

Rose Rosen, CSA

Casting Confidential is a podcast hosted by casting director Rose Rosen, CSA, offering a direct, unfiltered look at how casting actually works. Each episode features Rosen alongside a rotating co-host casting director and notable actors, pulling back the curtain on the professional relationship between actors and casting—and how decisions are really made. These are not surface-level conversations. The show focuses on process, context, and the often-misunderstood mechanics of auditions, callbacks, chemistry reads, and career-building choices. Casting Confidential is designed for actors who want clarity, not clichés. Listeners gain practical insight into what casting directors respond to, what they overlook, and how strong auditions are shaped long before a tape is submitted. The goal is simple: better information leads to better work in the room. Membership: Deeper Access, Real Feedback For actors who want to go beyond listening, the Casting Confidential Membership offers live, interactive opportunities: Monthly Performance Feedback Sessions Members submit a recent self-tape or scene and receive direct, professional feedback from casting directors. These sessions focus on specific, actionable adjustments—what’s working, what isn’t, and how to sharpen future auditions. A reader is provided.Live Episodes with Industry Guests Members are invited to exclusive live recordings featuring candid conversations with working actors and casting professionals.Casting Confidential is where casting directors speak plainly about the work—how we find actors, how we build ensembles, and what actually helps an actor stand out over time. Follow @castingconfidential on Instagram. Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—your support helps us continue bringing you substantive, high-level conversations from inside the casting room. Pull up a chair. This is how casting really works. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 4H AGO

    59. Christine Ebersole on Craft, Casting, and Is This Thing On

    In this episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen and guest co host, acclaimed casting director Shayna Markowitz sit down with legendary actor Christine Ebersole for an honest, deeply insightful conversation about craft, longevity, and what really happens behind the casting process. Christine shares stories from her extraordinary career spanning Broadway, film, television, and cabaret. From Saturday Night Live and Tootsie to Amadeus, War Paint, and her latest film Is This Thing On, directed by Bradley Cooper. She opens up about navigating auditions at every stage of life, trusting instinct over industry noise, and why perseverance matters more than timing. Shayna offers a rare look at casting from the other side of the table, including how actors with long-established careers are cast, how Zoom auditions have changed access and connection, and why casting directors are always rooting for actors to succeed. The conversation also touches on the long-overdue recognition of casting as an Academy Award category and what that means for the future of the profession. This is a must-listen for actors seeking clarity, confidence, and truth about how careers are actually built—without mythology, without guesswork. Sponsor: Rafy AppRehearse, memorize, and self-tape anytime with Rafy, the app that scans your sides and lets you practice with realistic reader voices. With over 60 voices, a built-in teleprompter, multilingual support, and a script library called Playhouse, Rafy gives actors full control over their process. Visit rafy.app and use code CONFIDENTIAL15 for 15% off. Go Deeper on PatreonJoin the Casting Confidential community on Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and live Q&As designed specifically for actors navigating the industry.
patreon.com/castingconfidential For more episodes and resources, visit castingconfidential.com.
Hosted by Rose Rosen. SPONSORS: RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL15 JOIN THE CASTING CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ON PATREON HERE: JOIN HERE CREDITS:  Host, Creator & Producer Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting CO HOST Shayna Markowitz GUESTS: Christine Ebersole christine.ebersoleofficial Editor MZ Studios mzstudiosdallas.com Original Music Orville Wright ohyeahbeats Artwork Ace Anderson aceshotthat FOLLOW THE SHOW AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON SOCIALS: @castingconfidential Patreon **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  2. JAN 5 · BONUS

    BONUS: Casting Confidential with Kerry Barden & Amber Chardae Robinson: Inside the Casting of Palm Royale

    In this powerful episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, is joined by acclaimed casting director Kerry Barden (The Help, Winter's Bone, Dallas Buyers Club) and dynamic actor Amber Chardae Robinson (Palm Royale, Judas and the Black Messiah, LOOT). Together, they take a deep dive into the casting process for Palm Royale—a stylized period drama full of glamour and hidden grit. Kerry shares the meticulous process behind assembling the series' all-star cast and discusses the nuance of reading actors, casting with authenticity, and balancing tone in a heightened world. Amber offers a candid look into her experience portraying an undercover FBI agent in a world steeped in 1960s privilege, reflecting on the personal and political weight of her role. From actor vulnerability and the importance of energy in auditions to industry scams and the power of saying yes to the journey, this episode is filled with essential insights for working actors and industry professionals alike. Plus, don’t miss the exclusive Casting Confidential Feedback Session, where Amber and a guest actor perform a brand-new original scene and receive live feedback from Kerry. SPONSORS: RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Co Host: Kerry Barden @kerrybardencasting Guest: Amber Chardae Robinson @ambershardae Feedback Actor Lewa Greenwood @lewagreenwood Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min
  3. 10/06/2025

    58. Shiri Appleby on Acting, Directing, and Owning Your Journey

    In a powerful Season 3 finale, Rose Rosen along with her co host casting director Kimberly Skyrme, welcome the multi-talented Shiri Appleby (Roswell, Unreal) for an inspiring deep dive into her remarkable journey from child actor to acclaimed director. Shiri shares candid insights into her audition experiences—including the game-changing moment that landed her Roswell—and reveals the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into directing. She discusses the evolution of casting, navigating self-tapes, and the importance of staying creatively fulfilled both on and off set. Plus, listeners are treated to a live feedback session with guest actor Alison Bauer in a dynamic scene read with Shiri. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential Wright Positive Films @shemeka_wright https://www.wrightpositive.com RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Co Host: Kimberly Skyrme @kimberlyskyrme Guest: Shiri Appleby @shiriappleby Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat Sides: StageMilk **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  4. 09/29/2025 · BONUS

    BONUS: Breaking the Typecast

    In this bonus breakdown episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—to explore one of the industry's most enduring debates: typecasting. From its roots in the old studio system to its modern-day implications, the conversation unpacks when typecasting helps actors build careers and when it starts to hold them back. Together, they share insights on how to leverage your “type” strategically, how to prepare to break out of it, and why knowing your lane doesn’t mean staying in it. Plus, hear memorable anecdotes—including one about discovering the perfect cop on the side of the road—and practical advice on making your submissions stand out. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min
  5. 09/22/2025

    57. TJ Wilk & the Rise of Vertical Films

    In this dynamic episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, dives deep into the booming world of vertical filmmaking with breakout star TJ Wilk and Atlanta-based casting director Cheryl Louden-Kubin. TJ shares his unique journey from modeling and music to leading over 17 vertical films, racking up more than 250 million views across platforms. He discusses his audition process, mastering the emotional intimacy of vertical acting, and the evolving landscape of mobile-first storytelling. Cheryl offers insight into casting for this format, its surprising reach, and why it's here to stay. Plus, don’t miss our Casting Confidential Feedback Session, where one lucky actor reads live with TJ and receives real-time notes from our expert panel. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential Wright Positive Films @shemeka_wright https://www.wrightpositive.com RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Co-Host: Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Guest: TJ Wilk @jwilkofficial Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat Sides: StageMilk **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m
  6. 09/15/2025 · BONUS

    BONUS: Callback Confidence – Navigating the Next Step

    In this special bonus episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen, CSA, dives into the vital world of callbacks — the crucial second look that often determines who books the role. Joined by fellow casting professionals, Cheryl Louden-Kubin, Robin Carus and Kimberly Skyrme, the conversation highlights why callbacks matter just as much as the initial audition and how actors can prepare to stand out a second time. From the importance of replicating your audition look (yes, wear that pink sweater again!) to maintaining a positive, professional attitude, this episode is full of essential advice for navigating the callback process. You'll hear real stories — some inspiring, some cautionary — that underscore how callbacks are more than just a repeat performance; they're about building relationships and showcasing flexibility. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    16 min
  7. 09/08/2025

    56. Jeff Hiller – From Social Worker to Emmy Nominee

    In this standout episode of Casting Confidential, Emmy-nominated actor Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere, HBO) joins host Rose Rosen and casting director Robin Carus for a candid, insightful, and often hilarious conversation about what it really takes to build a lasting acting career. From humble beginnings as a social worker to two decades on the improv circuit, Jeff’s story is a testament to persistence, self-awareness, and the value of saying “yes”—even when the path seems unclear. He discusses auditioning, navigating typecasting, and the reality behind “overnight success.” The episode also explores the evolving actor–casting director relationship and the collaborative spirit that fuels creative breakthroughs. Plus, don’t miss our Actor Spotlight segment, featuring a compelling live scene read with UK-based actor Nanette Hearn Clark, followed by constructive feedback from Jeff and our casting panel. If you’re an actor—or anyone navigating the entertainment industry—this episode is not to be missed. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential Wright Positive Films @shemeka_wright https://www.wrightpositive.com RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Co Host: Robin Carus @robincarus Guest: Jeff Hiller @boomboomhiller Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat Sides: StageMilk **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m
  8. 09/01/2025 · BONUS

    BONUS: What Happens After You Submit?

    Ever wondered what really happens after you hit “submit” on an audition tape? In this behind-the-scenes bonus drop, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—for a candid, coast-to-coast conversation on what goes down in a casting director’s inbox. From how tapes are reviewed and shared with producers, to the factors influencing callbacks (and why you might still be in the running even without a callback), this episode demystifies the audition pipeline. The panel also shares insights on labeling your footage, meeting submission deadlines, the impact of technology, and the importance of showing up consistently—even if you didn’t land the last role. Don’t miss this invaluable insider knowledge that could change how you approach every submission. Sponsors: Casting Networks @castingnetworks https://castingnetworks.com/confidential RAFY APP https://rafy.app/ Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10 MZ Studios Dallas https://mzstudiosdallas.com Follow the show and join our community on socials: @castingconfidential Join Our Membership here: https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member Host, Creator and Producer: Rose Rosen, CSA @roserosencasting Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editor: MZ Studios https://mzstudiosdallas.com Music: Orville Wright @ohyeahbeats Artwork: Ace Anderson @aceshotthat **Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    22 min
4.9
out of 5
165 Ratings

About

Casting Confidential is a podcast hosted by casting director Rose Rosen, CSA, offering a direct, unfiltered look at how casting actually works. Each episode features Rosen alongside a rotating co-host casting director and notable actors, pulling back the curtain on the professional relationship between actors and casting—and how decisions are really made. These are not surface-level conversations. The show focuses on process, context, and the often-misunderstood mechanics of auditions, callbacks, chemistry reads, and career-building choices. Casting Confidential is designed for actors who want clarity, not clichés. Listeners gain practical insight into what casting directors respond to, what they overlook, and how strong auditions are shaped long before a tape is submitted. The goal is simple: better information leads to better work in the room. Membership: Deeper Access, Real Feedback For actors who want to go beyond listening, the Casting Confidential Membership offers live, interactive opportunities: Monthly Performance Feedback Sessions Members submit a recent self-tape or scene and receive direct, professional feedback from casting directors. These sessions focus on specific, actionable adjustments—what’s working, what isn’t, and how to sharpen future auditions. A reader is provided.Live Episodes with Industry Guests Members are invited to exclusive live recordings featuring candid conversations with working actors and casting professionals.Casting Confidential is where casting directors speak plainly about the work—how we find actors, how we build ensembles, and what actually helps an actor stand out over time. Follow @castingconfidential on Instagram. Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—your support helps us continue bringing you substantive, high-level conversations from inside the casting room. Pull up a chair. This is how casting really works. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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