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

Martin Bentsen
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  • PERFORMING ARTS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY
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. 135: The Must-Have Actor Branding Formula to Land a Great Agent and Acting Auditions

    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

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 134: 3 Ways Actors Can Make an Agent’s Job Easier (and Increase Their Chances of Representation and Acting Auditions)

    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

  3. FEB 13

    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

  4. FEB 10

    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

  5. FEB 6

    Ep. 131: 5 Mistakes Actors Make When Choosing Audition Outfits & How to Avoid Them for More Acting Success

    What Should You Wear to Auditions and Self-Tapes to Stand Out? Are you sabotaging your audition without even realizing it? The clothes you wear could make or break your first impression with casting directors! In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, Martin Bentsen reveals how to dress in a way that suggests your character without stealing the focus from your performance. You'll learn why subtlety is key, what colors and styles pop best on camera, and how to stay comfortable while looking professional. What you'll discover today: Why “dressing to suggest” your character outshines full costumes - and when exceptions might work.The best colors, patterns, and accessories for on-camera auditions to ensure the spotlight stays on you.How to keep your look neat, natural, and perfectly aligned with the character you're auditioning for. Ready to elevate your auditions with simple yet effective wardrobe tweaks? Tune in now! 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.

    7 min

  6. FEB 3

    Ep. 130: Stop Using Weak Clips in Your Acting Profiles - Here’s How to Choose the Best Ones for More SAG-AFTRA Auditions

    Did you know the acting clips you upload to platforms like Actor's Access can make or break your chance at getting auditions? After reviewing your headshot and resume, casting directors and agents dive straight into your clips—and not all clips are created equal! In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we’re uncovering the secrets to picking the best clips for your profiles: A simple ranking system to evaluate your clips, from self-tapes to scenes with stars.Why having too many clips can hurt your chances—and the magic number you should aim for.Tips to polish your existing clips and show casting directors you’re ready for the camera. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly which clips showcase your best work and how to create a profile that leaves agents and casting directors wanting more. Tune in now and level up your acting game! Contact Information: Email: martin@cityheadshots.comWebsite: https://www.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

  7. JAN 30

    Ep. 129: How Mastering the First 5 Seconds of Your Self-Tape Can Transform Your Acting Audition Success

    What makes casting directors turn off your self-tape after just a few seconds? In a world where casting directors watch hundreds of tapes, standing out starts in the very first moments of your audition. If your self-tape doesn’t grab attention immediately, it won’t matter how great the rest is—they won’t stick around to watch it. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why the first few seconds of your self-tape are the most important and how to make them strong.A simple "pride words" trick to calm your nerves and get grounded before recording.How to ensure your slate, lighting, framing, and choices create a professional impression. Start listening now to learn how to make your self-tape stand out and impress casting directors from the very first second! 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

  8. JAN 27

    Ep. 128: 4 Ways Actors Struggle With Self-Tape Prep (And How To Fix Them for More Acting Opportunities)

    How can you be one of the first to submit your self-tape while still making sure it’s high-quality enough to book the role? Submitting self-tapes quickly gives you an edge in auditions, but rushing can lead to lower-quality performances. This episode reveals how to streamline your process so you can act fast and deliver a standout audition: Discover how to create a self-tape setup that’s always ready, even in tight spaces or on the go.Learn three creative strategies for finding readers, even when no one is available to help.Master a simple, four-level system for analyzing your performances and knowing when they’re good enough to submit. Don’t miss out on roles because of delays—listen now to learn how to prepare your self-tapes faster while keeping them top-notch! 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.

    14 min
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5
out of 5
20 Ratings

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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