Skip to content
Artwork for Actor 2 Actor Coast 2 Coast
ArtsPerforming Arts

Actor 2 Actor Coast 2 Coast

Brian Ceponis & Stanton Rutledge

Welcome to the Actor 2 Actor Coast 2 Coast Podcast, a fun and entertaining take on actors talking to actors about all things acting. Get a behind-the-scenes peek into the latest productions, stories from set, the whys and hows of actors' beginnings, the ups and downs of a profession where rejection outpaces acceptance, what it takes to survive and thrive in this profession, and so much more fun and unexpected stuff.

From Pennsylvania to California and all places in between Brian Ceponis and Stanton Rutledge talk to actors at all stages in their careers to find out what makes them tick and why they're an actor. Tune in for an entertaining conversation!

Play
  • 7 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 1 hr 11 min
  • English
  • S1 · E7
    October 23 · 58 min

    Episode 7: Kelsey Rhea

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Join us as we sit down with actress Kelsey Rhea for a wide-ranging conversation about getting started later in life, doing the work, and building a career with purpose. Kelsey shares how a return to community theater turned into a serious acting path, how she earned SAG eligibility from Pittsburgh, and why she launched her own production company, Polaris Pictures. We also cover two of her major projects, Grind and Still Here, plus upcoming work like McQueen and Revenge of the Corn Zombies. Over the course of the conversation we learn three things that are important to Kelsey, resilience, preparation, and making stories that matter.

  • S1 · E6
    October 9 · 1 hr 3 min

    Episode 6: Daniel John Kearney

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! In this episode, Brian and Stanton dive deep into the world of acting with their guest Daniel John Kearney. The conversation highlights the journey of an actor who has not only embraced a passion for performance but has also cultivated a unique approach to his craft. Though Dan had not pursued formal acting lessons initially, he leveraged his background as a professional dancer to inform his acting style. This unique blend of dancing and acting has allowed him to bring a dynamic presence to his roles. Dan also shares his origins as a lifelong horror fan. He frequently attended conventions where he developed genuine friendships with actors from legendary films. His admiration for fellow actor Felissa Rose played a pivotal role in his decision to pursue acting seriously. Dan's dedication to his craft is evident. He draws inspiration from a vast array of genres to build his confidence. This commitment to learning and growth is what sets him apart in an industry that often favors experience.

  • S1 · E5
    September 25 · 1 hr 14 min

    Episode 5: Brian Bell

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Join us as we sit down with actor, producer, and Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences staffer Brian Bell for a wide-ranging conversation about acting, producing, and staying grounded in a business full of unpredictability. Brian shares stories from decades in Los Angeles, including chatting about early acting classes and background work to on-set lessons learned from major productions and awards-season chaos. We dig into Brian's work, including Wolf Hollow, Cursed Waters, Devil’s Night, and the upcoming Grind follow-up, McQueen. Brian also offers practical advice for younger actors on rejection, self-tapes, and how to be a good on set.

  • S1 · E4
    September 11 · 1 hr 22 min

    Episode 4: Sadie Katz

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Join us as we sit down with actress and filmmaker Sadie Katz for a candid conversation about life after Los Angeles, the realities of acting in a self-tape world, and how indie film, horror, and festivals can still build a real career. Sadie also shares the unusual path behind her documentary, The Bill Murray Experience, and why staying active, visible, and creatively fulfilled matters more than ever. If you’re an actor trying to figure out where you fit in the modern industry, Sadie’s advice is simple: stay visible, stay creative, and stay honest about what the work actually requires. Build a life worth acting from, and don’t wait for one city or one system to define your career.

  • S1 · E3
    August 28 · 56 min

    Episode 3: JJ Michaels

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Join us as we talk with actor/model JJ Michaels about his path from college and modeling into acting, especially the fast-moving world of vertical dramas. JJ shares how he went from Georgia to Miami to Los Angeles, how he broke into the industry, and what it’s like to work in high-volume vertical productions that demand speed, preparation, and adaptability. We touch on the differences between verticals and traditional film sets, the realities of working with streaming apps like ReelShort and My Drama, and the importance of protecting yourself in contracts. You'll hear personal stories from auditions, set experiences, and the friendships that form in the business.

  • S1 · E2
    August 14 · 1 hr 29 min

    Episode 2: Ken Olandt

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Join us as Ken Olandt shares his incredible career insights and experiences with productions like Riptide, Summer School, Leprechaun, and Red Dawn. From early acting days to navigating Hollywood's evolving landscape, this episode is packed with stories of luck, perseverance, and timeless advice for actors and creatives alike. Whether you're just starting out or seasoned in the industry, Ken's perspective on life, art, and business offers valuable lessons. Success is not just about talent but also about maintaining integrity, relationships, and resilience. Ken’s stories remind us that life, like acting, is about authenticity, perseverance, and grace.

  • S1 · E1
    July 30 · 1 hr 18 min

    Episode 1: Wes Robinson

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Ever wonder what happens when two actors from opposite coastlines invite a talented peer for an entertaining, behind-the-scenes peek into their crazy, unpredictable world? Buckle up as Wes Robinson dives into Hollywood magic, crazy casting stories, and the secret sauce behind working in the biz today. Join us for an insightful conversation with actor Wes Robinson as he shares his journey from childhood theater to Hollywood success. Discover the realities of acting, the impact of industry changes, and Wes's experiences in iconic films like Blair Witch and Watchdog. Learn valuable tips for aspiring actors and get a glimpse of Wes's exciting projects and career journey.

Showing 1–7 of 7 episodes