ArtsPerforming Arts

The Acting Notes

Justin Powell

Unpacking the mystery, intrigue and mind numbing aspects of working in the acting industry. Host/actor Justin Powell offers tips and tricks on everything around the profession - from acting technique to business strategies and more - so you can take control of your acting career! Be sure to follow on Instagram, TikTok and Youtube so you don't miss out on any great acting content.

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20 episodes
Avg 27 min
English

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June 26 · 24 min
Stories Behind the Screen
In this episode, I’m doing something a little different. I’ve gathered up a handful of stories from various actors, spanning different movies, eras, and experiences. Some are well-known. Some might be new to you.I’ll share these stories as I know them, talk through what stands out to me about each one, and offer a few thoughts along the way. There’s no single theme or takeaway I'm trying to force here—just stories about the craft, the industry, and the people who live in it.Feel free to like and subscribe for more great acting notes!
May 29 · 29 min
Business Traps for Actors
We have to treat our acting career like a business. In this episode, Justin goes over traps that some actors can stumble into. If you enjoy the podcast please consider leaving a rating! Thank you for listening. You can also follow @theactingnotes and @Justin_r_powell on Instagram for more great acting content.
May 15 · 21 min
New York Minute
After a brief vacation in New York, Justin discusses some lessons he took from his trip as well as how he tackled auditions while out of town. Be sure to check out the acting notes on Instagram @theactingnotes and Justin's personal IG @justin_r_powell.
April 17 · 26 min
Traps for Newer Actors
When you're just starting out and you're acting career, there are certain habits and ticks that tend to happen for everyone. In this episode, Justin breaks down some of those early traps and offers solutions to find new ways forward. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving a review and sharing! Also, let me know what episodes you might want to hear in the future. Follow this link to better help for a discount! https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes
April 10 · 25 min
Lessons from a Headshot Session
I recently got my headshots for this year! So what better time to put out an episode talking about some things you can do to make sure your next headshot session is the best it can be. I'll walk you through how I prepared and got some of my favorite shots ever! Huge thanks to better help for sponsoring this episode! https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes Be sure to give The Acting Notes a follow on IG. IG: @theactingnotes Host: @justin_r_powell
April 3 · 29 min
Lessons From 3 Features
It's been a busy start to the year! I had fully intended on releasing new episodes in January but booked 3 straight features and had to focus up. Now, Justin shares some lessons learned from the audition and filming process. Be sure to give the Acting Notes a follow over on Youtube and Instagram!
Aug 18, 2025 · 19 min
Playing Different Characters in the Same Project
This week, Justin provides some tip for creating characters distinct from one another particularly when they are in the same project.
Jun 6, 2025 · 26 min
The Emotional Scene
Ever feel pressure to "just feel it" in emotional scenes? You’re not alone. This episode dives deep into the craft behind authentic emotional work – no trauma-dumping required. Join us as we unpack actionable techniques to access raw truth safely and sustainably, whether you’re on camera or stage. We’ll bust the myth that "real acting" means suffering and reveal why the most powerful momentslive in the tension between control and surrender. Whether you’re facing grief, rage, or vulnerability – this is your roadmap to emotional resilience.
May 6, 2025 · 58 min
Master the Art of Acting With Ivanna Chubbuck
In this episode, I sit down with the legendary Ivana Chubbuck—renowned acting coach, author of The Power of the Actor, and mentor to A-list stars like Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, and Charlize Theron. We dive deep into her groundbreaking Chubbuck Technique, a powerful approach to acting that blends psychology, emotional authenticity, and actionable objectives to create unforgettable performances.Whether you're an aspiring actor or a seasoned performer, this conversation is packed with invaluable insights to elevate your craft.🚀 Want to train with Ivana? Check out her studio and sign up for classes here:🔗 http://www.ivanachubbuck.com📖 Get her book, The Power of the Actor:💬 What was your biggest takeaway? Let us know in the comments!👍 Liked this episode? Subscribe for more acting tips, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights!#Acting #ChubbuckTechnique #IvanaChubbuck #ActingCoach #Hollywood #FilmActing #Theater #ActingTips
Apr 18, 2025 · 26 min
Theater Acting VS Film Acting: How to Change Your Acting Based on the Medium
Ever delivered a powerhouse stage performance… only to hear "tone it down" on camera? Or felt "too small" when transitioning to theater? In this episode, we break down the key differences between acting for stage, film, and TV—and how to master each medium like a pro. Whether you’re a theater actor eyeing Hollywood or a screen newbie stepping onstage, these tools will transform your craft.
Mar 7, 2025 · 10 min
Disappointment
In this episode Justin shares some thoughts on disappointment in the business and how we can handle it.
Feb 28, 2025 · 31 min
The ULTIMATE Headshot Guide with Pro Photographer Michael Roud
In this episode of The Acting Notes, we sit down with renowned headshot photographer Michael Roud to break down everything actors need to know about getting the perfect headshot. We discuss what makes a headshot stand out, how to prepare for a session, and the biggest mistakes actors make. Michael also shares insights from his years of experience working with actors at every level. Check out Michael’s work and book a session at michaelroud.com Disclaimer: Apologies for the echo in the audio—technical difficulties got the best of us on this one! But stick with it; the insights in this episode are worth it.
Jan 31, 2025 · 29 min
Crying On Cue
Crying On Cue is sometimes considered to be the MOST important thing in acting. Is it? Are you actually a good actor if you can't do this? Short answer is no. Long answer - well, listen to the episode. Featuring a special guest; Actress and Acting Coach Georgia Warner.
S2 · E2
Jan 24, 2025 · 21 min
Dealing with Outside Noise
What do we do when the world is just too much? How do we manage to still do incredible work when we don't feel our best? This week Justin talks about how to deal with the outside noise and take care of yourself as an artist.
S2 · E1
Jan 17, 2025 · 20 min
Agents
WE'RE BACK! Agents are often viewed as the means of getting to the big leagues but how do we get the right agent? What do we need to get an agent? In this episode, Justin breaks down some tips to help you get an agent that you can vibe with.
Dec 20, 2023 · 38 min
The Actor's Essence with Rachel Paulson
In this episode, Justin talks with Director, Coach and Actress Rachel Paulson about what actors need to know about auditioning. They discuss shifting your focus for each acting genre and what casting directors really want to see when you send in your tape. Be sure to check out The Acting Notes on IG and TikTok @theactingnotes. For more information on Rachel's incredible RRsessions head to https://www.rrsessions.com/ and give her a follow @rupaulson on IG!
Oct 27, 2023 · 32 min
Finding Freedom in the Work
It's so important to discover freedom in the work. In this episode, Justin Powell walks us through why it's so key and how we can approach our work to discover this freedom. Be sure to follow the Acting Notes on IG and TikTok @theactingnotes for more great acting content! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored
Sep 8, 2023 · 22 min
Keeping the Passion Alive
In this episode, Justin talks about how our passion can wane in this industry and some things you can do to keep that fire alive. Be sure to follow the Acting Notes on IG and TikTok @theactingnotes for more great acting content! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored
Aug 11, 2023 · 36 min
Prep Work For A Feature Film
In this episode, Justin talks about the process he used to prep for a non union feature film and how following your curiosity for the character is always key. Be sure to check out the Acting Notes on IG and TikTok @theactingnotes. Go to ⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes⁠⁠ for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored
Jul 14, 2023 · 22 min
Downtime
In this episode, Justin talks about the downtime we're all about to experience in our acting career and how we can utilize these moments of downtime to keep helping us grow. Be sure to check out the Acting Notes on IG and TikTok @theactingnotes. Go to ⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/theactingnotes⁠⁠ for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

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