VersaVision

What Makes The Talent Agent Believe Someone Has What It Takes with Ryan Hayden

What does an agent actually see when they look at an actor, and what makes them believe someone has star power? This week on VersaVision, I sit down with Ideal Talent Agency founder Ryan Hayden for a fascinating look at the business from the other side of representation. Ryan’s path has taken him from acting and reality television casting to working at ICM and ultimately building Ideal Talent Agency from the ground up. Along the way, he developed a unique perspective on something every actor wants to understand: What makes someone stand out? We talk about the elusive quality we call star power - presence, charisma, emotional life, storytelling ability, and the work ethic it takes to turn potential into a career. Ryan also shares why reality television became an unexpected launching pad for some actors, what influencers may understand about holding an audience, and what agents are really looking for when they decide to invest in someone. But one of the most important parts of our conversation is about progress. Careers rarely change overnight. One audition can make a casting director remember you. One relationship can pay off years later. And sometimes, while you’re focused on the job you didn’t get, you’re missing all the evidence that your career is actually moving forward. If you’ve ever wondered what an agent sees when they look at you or questioned whether you’re getting anywhere at all? This is a conversation you need to hear. WORD OF THE WEEK: COMMITMENT VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, For All Mankind A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro provided by Tamika Katon-Donegal Assistants: Will Peroni and Ian Butter ++++++++++++++++++++++ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join a community that wants to understand this business from the people who know it best. Each week, I sit down with leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, filmmakers, and other industry professionals for candid conversations about what it really takes to build and sustain a career in entertainment. Their experiences, insights, and advice can help you make smarter choices, recognize new opportunities, and take the next step in your own career. Subscribe, listen, and keep learning. Your support allows us to keep bringing these important conversations to you. And they are free!

What Makes The Talent Agent Believe Someone Has What It Takes with Ryan Hayden

What does an agent actually see when they look at an actor, and what makes them believe someone has star power? This week on VersaVision, I sit down with Ideal Talent Agency founder Ryan Hayden for a fascinating look at the business from the other side of representation. Ryan’s path has taken him from acting and reality television casting to working at ICM and ultimately building Ideal Talent Agency from the ground up. Along the way, he developed a unique perspective on something every actor wants to understand: What makes someone stand out? We talk about the elusive quality we call star power - presence, charisma, emotional life, storytelling ability, and the work ethic it takes to turn potential into a career. Ryan also shares why reality television became an unexpected launching pad for some actors, what influencers may understand about holding an audience, and what agents are really looking for when they decide to invest in someone. But one of the most important parts of our conversation is about progress. Careers rarely change overnight. One audition can make a casting director remember you. One relationship can pay off years later. And sometimes, while you’re focused on the job you didn’t get, you’re missing all the evidence that your career is actually moving forward. If you’ve ever wondered what an agent sees when they look at you or questioned whether you’re getting anywhere at all? This is a conversation you need to hear. WORD OF THE WEEK: COMMITMENT VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, For All Mankind A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro provided by Tamika Katon-Donegal Assistants: Will Peroni and Ian Butter ++++++++++++++++++++++ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join a community that wants to understand this business from the people who know it best. Each week, I sit down with leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, filmmakers, and other industry professionals for candid conversations about what it really takes to build and sustain a career in entertainment. Their experiences, insights, and advice can help you make smarter choices, recognize new opportunities, and take the next step in your own career. Subscribe, listen, and keep learning. Your support allows us to keep bringing these important conversations to you. And they are free!

ACTOR SERIES: You Always Have To Be Willing To Sacrifice - First, Do The Work, And Then You Can Dance

You’ve done the training. You’ve prepared. You know the lines. Now what? What does it truly mean to “do the work” as an actor, and why are most people getting it wrong?? Average actors chase auditions. The ones who "do the work" book and get chased. We discuss the difference and how to leverage it. Don't play too small just attack the issues from multiple angles. Tune in to learn how Sheila Ball has done it all ... theater, television, film, commercials, daytime drama, and now vertical entertainment. She graduated from Princeton, trained in New York, and studied at BADA alongside instructors like Alan Rickman. Her credits read like a masterclass in range: Guiding Light, As the World Turns, Another World, One Life to Live, plus films like Assault on VA-33, By Deception, Basic, and more. But listen to her for five minutes, and one thing becomes obvious: Sheila has never stopped being a student of the craft. She doesn't treat acting as something you switch on when you book a job. It's a daily practice, an accent drilled, a poem memorized, ASL practiced, a spark kept alive whether or not the phone is ringing. Her philosophy is simple: work begets work. The more you do, the more you book. The more you're on set, the more doors open. In this episode, she breaks down how to flip the script so directors, producers, and casting directors start chasing you. Consider this your reminder: the work isn't something you survive on your way to a career. The work is the career. And then... you can DANCE. WORD OF THE WEEK: WONDERMENT ____________________________________________________ Produced by: Devyn Arnold Intro by: Tamika Katon Donegal Assistants: Will Peroni and Ian Butter _______________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join a community that wants to understand this business from the people who know it best. Each week, I sit down with leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, filmmakers, and other industry professionals for candid conversations about what it really takes to build and sustain a career in entertainment. Their experiences, insights, and advice can help you make smarter choices, recognize new opportunities, and take the next step in your own career. Subscribe, listen, and keep learning. Your support allows us to keep bringing these important conversations to you.

Verticals - The Industry Shift Actors Must Pay Attention to with The Vertical Buzz Podcast host Buzz Leer

What happens when an actor who has spent decades working in traditional television, film, and theatre finds themselves at the center of an entirely new form of storytelling? I welcomed Buzz Leer to VersaVision this week for an in-depth conversation about his career, the evolution of the entertainment industry, and why vertical/micro dramas may be one of the biggest opportunities actors aren't paying enough attention to. Buzz has had one of those careers that seems to have a little bit of everything. He began as the host of HGTV's House Detectives, went on to build an extensive acting career with credits including Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, neXt, and Days of Our Lives, became a two-time Webby Award winner for the Being Golden podcast, and has now appeared in more than 40 vertical productions. What I loved about our conversation was hearing Buzz describe how all of those seemingly different experiences have ultimately come together in what he's doing today. We talked about what first drew Buzz into vertical entertainment, how dramatically the format has evolved, and what he discovered about his own acting when he started working in this space. One of the things that really surprised me was his realization that vertical acting actually brought him back to his stage training. The performances required bigger choices, more immediacy, and a different kind of energy than traditional television and film. Buzz also gave us a firsthand look at what it's actually like to work on these productions. After doing more than 40 verticals in just a few years, he's had a front-row seat to the evolution of the format - watching crews grow, production value increase, and the entire ecosystem develop at an incredible pace. And eventually, he realized something: somebody needed to document what was happening. That realization became The Vertical Buzz. Most importantly, Buzz's message to actors interested in verticals was refreshingly simple: do it! If an opportunity gives you another chance to work, get on camera, collaborate with different actors and directors, and continue developing your craft, why wouldn't you take it? Whether you're curious about vertical acting, interested in Buzz's incredible career journey, or trying to understand where the entertainment industry is heading next, this conversation is a really fun look at what happens when you stay adaptable, keep working, and recognize an opportunity while it's still emerging. WORD OF THE WEEK: Grateful VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Lucky (Apple TV), Sugar (Apple TV), Slow Horses (Apple TV), Obsession (Peacock) A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold | Intro: Tamika Katon-Done Assistants: Will Peroni | Ian Butter _____________________________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

Verticals - The Industry Shift Actors Must Pay Attention to with The Vertical Buzz Podcast host Buzz Leer

What happens when an actor who has spent decades working in traditional television, film, and theatre finds themselves at the center of an entirely new form of storytelling? I welcomed Buzz Leer to VersaVision this week for an in-depth conversation about his career, the evolution of the entertainment industry, and why vertical/micro dramas may be one of the biggest opportunities actors aren't paying enough attention to. Buzz has had one of those careers that seems to have a little bit of everything. He began as the host of HGTV's House Detectives, went on to build an extensive acting career with credits including Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, neXt, and Days of Our Lives, became a two-time Webby Award winner for the Being Golden podcast, and has now appeared in more than 40 vertical productions. What I loved about our conversation was hearing Buzz describe how all of those seemingly different experiences have ultimately come together in what he's doing today. We talked about what first drew Buzz into vertical entertainment, how dramatically the format has evolved, and what he discovered about his own acting when he started working in this space. One of the things that really surprised me was his realization that vertical acting actually brought him back to his stage training. The performances required bigger choices, more immediacy, and a different kind of energy than traditional television and film. Buzz also gave us a firsthand look at what it's actually like to work on these productions. After doing more than 40 verticals in just a few years, he's had a front-row seat to the evolution of the format - watching crews grow, production value increase, and the entire ecosystem develop at an incredible pace. And eventually, he realized something: somebody needed to document what was happening. That realization became The Vertical Buzz. Most importantly, Buzz's message to actors interested in verticals was refreshingly simple: do it! If an opportunity gives you another chance to work, get on camera, collaborate with different actors and directors, and continue developing your craft, why wouldn't you take it? Whether you're curious about vertical acting, interested in Buzz's incredible career journey, or trying to understand where the entertainment industry is heading next, this conversation is a really fun look at what happens when you stay adaptable, keep working, and recognize an opportunity while it's still emerging. WORD OF THE WEEK: Grateful VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Lucky (Apple TV), Sugar (Apple TV), Slow Horses (Apple TV), Obsession (Peacock) A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold | Intro: Tamika Katon-Done Assistants: Will Peroni | Ian Butter _____________________________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

Stop Being Afraid of Verticals - Emmy Award Winning CD Paul Ruddy Wants To Convince You

Emmy Award-winning casting director Paul Ruddy, the King of Casting for verticals and micro-dramas, took time out to join me on VersaVision! We dug into how much casting has changed, what actors need to understand to navigate the business today, and the misconceptions that still hold them back. Paul has spent 27 years in the entertainment industry, beginning his career in talent representation before making the transition into casting. Over the past 25 years, he’s cast major television shows, film, theatre, commercials, and some of the biggest emerging platforms in the industry. He’s also the recipient of an Emmy for his casting work on The Eastsiders. What really stood out to me throughout our conversation, though, was the perspective that comes from having watched this business evolve firsthand. We talked about what actually happens after an actor submits an audition, why getting the audition itself is a victory, and why not booking a role often has absolutely nothing to do with how talented you are. Paul also broke down some of the biggest misconceptions actors have about casting, including the idea that casting directors are "gatekeepers." His perspective? They're gate openers. And he explained exactly what that means. We also got into the realities of self-tapes, preparation, memorization, and what casting directors can recognize within the first few moments of watching a tape. Paul got incredibly candid about the simple mistakes that can hurt an audition, why actors don't need to turn their self-tape into a mini movie, and why being prepared gives you the freedom to actually make choices instead of simply trying to remember your lines. And then we dove into one of the biggest changes happening in the industry right now: vertical dramas. Paul was there near the beginning of this rapidly expanding format and has watched it evolve almost month by month. We talked about why he believes verticals are much more than a passing trend, how they're creating opportunities for thousands of actors, and why performers shouldn't dismiss a format simply because it doesn't look like the traditional career path they imagined. Most importantly, Paul shares a philosophy that I think every actor should take seriously: work begets work. Every audition, every job, every relationship and every opportunity can become part of the bigger picture of your career. Whether you're trying to understand what happens on the other side of your audition, looking for new ways to create opportunities, or simply trying to keep up with how quickly this industry is changing, this conversation with Paul is packed with insight, honesty, and plenty of things I think actors need to hear. PHRASE OF THE WEEK: Work Begets Work VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Tuner (Prime), Casting By (HBO) A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold | Intro: Tamika Katon-Donegal Assistants: Will Perino, Ian Butter _____________________________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

You're Focused On The Wrong Things Says Casting Director Devon Brady

I sit down with casting director Devon Brady for a fascinating conversation about what casting directors are really looking for, and why so many actors are focused on the wrong things. Devon has had one of the most unique journeys into casting. Before spending the last seven years casting projects for Disney Channel, Netflix, Nickelodeon, YouTube Premium, DramaBox, and ReelShort, he worked in both Human Resources at Lionsgate and talent management (which I'm quite impressed by!). Those experiences gave him a perspective that very few casting directors have, and throughout our conversation, he shares how each stop along the way has shaped the way he evaluates actors today. We talk about what actually makes an actor memorable after an audition, why authenticity will always stand out more than trying to give casting directors what you think they want, and the biggest misconceptions actors still have about the casting process. Devon also offers an honest look at why the "best" audition doesn't always book the job, and how so many decisions are made based on the bigger picture of the project. We also dive into the rapidly growing world of vertical dramas. As someone who's cast extensively for DramaBox and ReelShort, Devon explains why he believes this format is creating legitimate opportunities for actors and why it's a space performers shouldn't ignore. We discuss how casting changes across platforms, what makes someone successful in vertical storytelling, and where he believes the industry is heading over the next several years. Whether you're just starting your career or have been auditioning for years, this conversation is filled with practical insight that will change the way you think about casting, auditions, and building relationships in this industry. WORD OF THE WEEK: BREATHE VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Widow's Bay, Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, The Pitt A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro: Tamika Katon-Donegal Assistants: Will Perino | Ian Butter ____________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's top casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

You're Focused On The Wrong Things Says Casting Director Devon Brady

I sit down with casting director Devon Brady for a fascinating conversation about what casting directors are really looking for, and why so many actors are focused on the wrong things. Devon has had one of the most unique journeys into casting. Before spending the last seven years casting projects for Disney Channel, Netflix, Nickelodeon, YouTube Premium, DramaBox, and ReelShort, he worked in both Human Resources at Lionsgate and talent management (which I'm quite impressed by!). Those experiences gave him a perspective that very few casting directors have, and throughout our conversation, he shares how each stop along the way has shaped the way he evaluates actors today. We talk about what actually makes an actor memorable after an audition, why authenticity will always stand out more than trying to give casting directors what you think they want, and the biggest misconceptions actors still have about the casting process. Devon also offers an honest look at why the "best" audition doesn't always book the job, and how so many decisions are made based on the bigger picture of the project. We also dive into the rapidly growing world of vertical dramas. As someone who's cast extensively for DramaBox and ReelShort, Devon explains why he believes this format is creating legitimate opportunities for actors and why it's a space performers shouldn't ignore. We discuss how casting changes across platforms, what makes someone successful in vertical storytelling, and where he believes the industry is heading over the next several years. Whether you're just starting your career or have been auditioning for years, this conversation is filled with practical insight that will change the way you think about casting, auditions, and building relationships in this industry. WORD OF THE WEEK: BREATHE VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Widow's Bay, Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, The Pitt A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro: Tamika Katon-Donegal Assistants: Will Perino | Ian Butter ____________________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's top casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

Your Next Booking Could Depend On This Conversation with Casting Director LISA ZAMBETTI

This week on VersaVision, I had the pleasure of sitting down with one of the industry's top casting directors, Lisa Zambetti and I have to say, this became one of my favorite conversations we've had on the show. What struck me most about Lisa wasn't just her incredible résumé. It was her humanity. After spending decades as an actress, casting director, teacher, and mentor, she has a rare ability to see this business from every angle. We talked about her journey from Broadway and Off-Broadway to learning under the legendary casting director Billy Hopkins, and how those experiences shaped the way she champions actors today. One of the biggest takeaways for me was hearing Lisa explain that casting directors are often championing actors far more than actors realize. That perspective alone has the power to change the way you walk into your next audition or when you start putting together a tape for an audition you have been asked to do. We also went behind the scenes of Criminal Minds, where Lisa shares what it was really like creating an entirely new world of characters every eight days, why hearing "no" isn't the end of the story, and how one unforgettable audition can actually influence the direction of an entire television series. Another part of our conversation that stayed with me was hearing about the incredible work behind Reservation Dogs. Lisa shares the story of travelling across Oklahoma holding open casting calls, discovering Indigenous performers who had never acted before, and helping create opportunities that genuinely changed lives. It's a beautiful reminder that great casting isn't simply about experience: it's about authenticity, truth, and finding the right person to tell the story. And I loved that Lisa are on the same page with just about everything, and I actually love those moments because they create the best conversations. One of the main issues we both agreed on: there will never be a substitute for an honest, truthful human performance. If you're an actor, filmmaker, creative person, or simply someone who loves hearing how great stories are brought to life, I think you'll take something valuable away from this conversation. I'd love to hear what resonates with you most after you listen. Send us an email to versavisionpodcast@gmail.com If you would like to be a guest on the show, please contact us at: versavisionpodcast@gmail.com LISA'S WORD OF THE WEEK: UNBOTHERED LISA'S VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, Orphan Black INSTAGRAM: @LisaZambettiCasting A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold and Intro by: Tamika Katon-Donegal ________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing their real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations and we thank you for your unwavering support.

Your Next Booking Could Depend on This Conversation with Casting Director LISA ZAMBETTI

This week on VersaVision, I had the pleasure of sitting down with one of the industry's top casting directors, Lisa Zambetti and I have to say, this became one of my favorite conversations we've had on the show. What struck me most about Lisa wasn't just her incredible résumé. It was her humanity. After spending decades as an actress, casting director, teacher, and mentor, she has a rare ability to see this business from every angle. We talked about her journey from Broadway and Off-Broadway to learning under the legendary casting director Billy Hopkins, and how those experiences shaped the way she champions actors today. One of the biggest takeaways for me was hearing Lisa explain that casting directors are often championing actors far more than actors realize. That perspective alone has the power to change the way you walk into your next audition or when you start putting together a tape for an audition you have been asked to do. We also went behind the scenes of Criminal Minds, where Lisa shares what it was really like creating an entirely new world of characters every eight days, why hearing "no" isn't the end of the story, and how one unforgettable audition can actually influence the direction of an entire television series. Another part of our conversation that stayed with me was hearing about the incredible work behind Reservation Dogs. Lisa shares the story of travelling across Oklahoma holding open casting calls, discovering Indigenous performers who had never acted before, and helping create opportunities that genuinely changed lives. It's a beautiful reminder that great casting isn't simply about experience: it's about authenticity, truth, and finding the right person to tell the story. And I loved that Lisa are on the same page with just about everything, and I actually love those moments because they create the best conversations. One of the main issues we both agreed on: there will never be a substitute for an honest, truthful human performance. If you're an actor, filmmaker, creative person, or simply someone who loves hearing how great stories are brought to life, I think you'll take something valuable away from this conversation. I'd love to hear what resonates with you most after you listen. Send us an email to versavisionpodcast@gmail.com If you would like to be a guest on the show, please contact us at: versavisionpodcast@gmail.com WORD OF THE WEEK: UNBOTHERED LISA'S VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, Orphan Black INSTAGRAM: @LisaZambettiCasting A huge thanks to our team: Producer: Devyn Arnold and Intro by: Tamika Katon-Donegal ________________________________________ If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision and join us as we bring you shows with the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers - sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations and we thank you for your unwavering support..

ACTOR SERIES: From HBO's The Wire to Broadway and Spider-Noir: Actor Michael Kostroff’s Discusses What Really Matters

This week, I'm joined by actor Michael Kostroff for a thought-provoking, and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to build a career with purpose, resilience and longevity in the entertainment industry. Michael and I do not always agree or see eye to eye, and that's exactly what makes this conversation so engaging. We challenge each other's perspectives, question long-held beliefs and explore different approaches to building success in your career. You may find yourself agreeing with one of us, both of us, or changing your own perspective along the way. We talk about his long-awaited Broadway debut in DOG DAY AFTERNOON, joining the cast of Marvel's Spider Noir (Michael is excellent in it by the way), and how changing your environment can reignite your creativity when you feel stuck. Michael also shares the mindset that has helped him navigate decades of change while continuing to grow as an artist He opens up about mental health, the healing power of art, and the importance of self‑grace while navigating an unpredictable career, plus his book The Stage Actor’s Handbook and lessons for working actors at any level. The book is now being taught in many universities in America. Join me as we explore what it truly means to build a career that doesn't just endure, but continues to evolve. WORD OF THE WEEK: SELF-GRACE VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: BAD SISTERS, THE WIRE, YEARS AND YEARS, IDIOCRACY You can also find Michael Kostroff on Instagram: @michael_kostroff Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro by: Tamika Katon-Donegal _________________________ To everyone listening, I hope this episode encourages you to approach your work with greater authenticity, curiosity, and courage. VersaVision is streaming on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe and download the latest episodes so you never miss insight like today’s show with Anthony. Thank you again, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. See you all next week!

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From HBO's The Wire to Broadway and Spider-Noir: Actor Michael Kostroff’s Discusses What Really Matters

This week, I'm joined by actor Michael Kostroff for a thought-provoking, and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to build a career with purpose, resilience and longevity in the entertainment industry. Michael and I do not always agree or see eye to eye, and that's exactly what makes this conversation so engaging. We challenge each other's perspectives, question long-held beliefs and explore different approaches to building success in your career. You may find yourself agreeing with one of us, both of us, or changing your own perspective along the way. We talk about his long-awaited Broadway debut in DOG DAY AFTERNOON, joining the cast of Marvel's Spider Noir (Michael is excellent in it by the way), and how changing your environment can reignite your creativity when you feel stuck. Michael also shares the mindset that has helped him navigate decades of change while continuing to grow as an artist He opens up about mental health, the healing power of art, and the importance of self‑grace while navigating an unpredictable career, plus his book The Stage Actor’s Handbook and lessons for working actors at any level. The book is now being taught in many universities in America. Join me as we explore what it truly means to build a career that doesn't just endure, but continues to evolve. WORD OF THE WEEK: SELF-GRACE VIEWING RECOMMENDATIONS: BAD SISTERS, THE WIRE, YEARS AND YEARS, IDIOCRACY You can also find Michael Kostroff on Instagram: @michael_kostroff Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro by: Tamika Katon-Donegal _________________________ To everyone listening, I hope this episode encourages you to approach your work with greater authenticity, curiosity, and courage. VersaVision is streaming on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe and download the latest episodes so you never miss insight like today’s show with Anthony. Thank you again, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. See you all next week!

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How Storytelling Has The Power To Change Us with Filmmaker Anthony Meindl

Word of the Week: SANTUARY Viewing recommendations: OBSESSION, WIDOW'S BAY. Today’s guest is acclaimed acting teacher, filmmaker, writer, director, and creative activist Anthony Meindl. As the founder of Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop, he has spent more than twenty-five years helping actors around the world discover truthful, authentic performances while building one of the most respected acting communities in the industry. Anthony’s work extends far beyond the classroom. Through films like Where We Go From Here and his latest feature, Memento Mori, he explores some of the most important conversations of our time - including grief, identity, climate change, healing, and our shared humanity. Today we dive into Anthony’s recent projects, what authenticity truly means in this space, and why storytelling has the power to change both individuals and society. Anthony, thank you for such a thoughtful and inspiring conversation. Your work reminds us that acting is about so much more than booking roles or delivering performances. It’s about connecting with ourselves, with one another, and with the stories that help us better understand the human experience. Website: www.anthonymeindl.com Thank you to Producer: Devyn Arnold and Tamika Katon-Donegal for the intro. _______________________________________________________ ANTHONY MEINDL BIOGRAPHY: Anthony Meindl is an award-winning writer, director, acting teacher, and creative activist whose work explores the intersection of humanity, social justice, climate change, and emotional truth. Through film, theatre, teaching, and public speaking, he creates work centred on awakening empathy and connection in the modern world. His feature film Where We Go From Here, inspired by the Pulse Nightclub tragedy, premiered at Outfest, received multiple festival awards, and was acquired by HULU. His latest feature, Memento Mori, explores the climate crisis through interconnected stories filmed across five continents. As founder of Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop, he has built an international creative community spanning more than a dozen cities over the last twenty-five years. His students have included some of the most acclaimed and well-known actors, musicians, and activists working across film, television, theatre, and music. He has trained Academy Award winners, Grammy winners, Emmy & Golden Globe nominees and BAFTA nominees. Meindl’s work consistently bridges artistic expression with activism, focusing on themes of human rights, environmental responsibility, identity, grief, healing, and collective transformation. _______________________________________________________________ To everyone listening, I hope this episode encourages you to approach your work with greater authenticity, curiosity, and courage. VersaVision is streaming on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe and download the latest episodes so you never miss insight like today’s show with Anthony. Thank you again, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. See you all next week!

The Art of Presence and Authenticity with Anthony Meindl and How Storytelling Has The Power To Change Us!

Today’s guest is acclaimed acting teacher, filmmaker, writer, director, and creative activist Anthony Meindl. As the founder of Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop, he has spent more than twenty-five years helping actors around the world discover truthful, authentic performances while building one of the most respected acting communities in the industry. Anthony’s work extends far beyond the classroom. Through films like Where We Go From Here and his latest feature, Memento Mori, he explores some of the most important conversations of our time - including grief, identity, climate change, healing, and our shared humanity. Today we dive into Anthony’s recent projects, what authenticity truly means in this space, and why storytelling has the power to change both individuals and society. Anthony, thank you for such a thoughtful and inspiring conversation. Your work reminds us that acting is about so much more than booking roles or delivering performances. It’s about connecting with ourselves, with one another, and with the stories that help us better understand the human experience. Word of the Week: SANTUARY Viewing recommendations: OBSESSION, WIDOW'S BAY. Website: www.anthonymeindl.com Thank you to Producer: Devyn Arnold and Tamika Katon-Donegal for the intro. _______________________________________________________ ANTHONY MEINDL BIOGRAPY: Anthony Meindl is an award-winning writer, director, acting teacher, and creative activist whose work explores the intersection of humanity, social justice, climate change, and emotional truth. Through film, theatre, teaching, and public speaking, he creates work centred on awakening empathy and connection in the modern world. His feature film Where We Go From Here, inspired by the Pulse Nightclub tragedy, premiered at Outfest, received multiple festival awards, and was acquired by HULU. His latest feature, Memento Mori, explores the climate crisis through interconnected stories filmed across five continents. As founder of Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop, he has built an international creative community spanning more than a dozen cities over the last twenty-five years. His students have included some of the most acclaimed and well-known actors, musicians, and activists working across film, television, theatre, and music. He has trained Academy Award winners, Grammy winners, Emmy & Golden Globe nominees and BAFTA nominees. Meindl’s work consistently bridges artistic expression with activism, focusing on themes of human rights, environmental responsibility, identity, grief, healing, and collective transformation. _______________________________________________________________ To everyone listening, I hope this episode encourages you to approach your work with greater authenticity, curiosity, and courage. VersaVision is streaming on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe and download the latest episodes so you never miss insight like today’s. Anthony, thank you again, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you. See you all next week!

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What Casting Directors See That Actors Miss with CD, Writer and Producer David Guglielmo

Today on VersaVision, we're joined by award-winning casting director, producer, and filmmaker David Guglielmo. A member of the Casting Society, David has more than 150 film and television project credits, helping bring some of the most acclaimed independent films and genre features of recent years to the screen. His casting credits include festival standouts The Standoff at Sparrow Creek, Run Hide Fight, and Shelby Oaks, and most recently, Evil Dead: Wrath, the newest instalment in the legendary Evil Dead franchise. Beyond casting, David has built an impressive career as both a producer and filmmaker, producing acclaimed projects including The Last Stop in Yuma County and Killing Faith, while directing feature films such as No Way to Live, Hospitality, and Love Bomb. In this episode, David offers a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective from every angle of the industry. We explore what casting directors are really looking for, what separates talented performers from consistently working actors, how great casting decisions are made, and the invaluable lessons he's learned from producing, directing, and discovering exceptional talent. If you're an actor, filmmaker, or creative looking to better understand how careers are built in today's entertainment industry, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. David, welcome back to VersaVision. David's Word of the Week: INTUITION Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro: Tamika Katon Donegal DAVID’S BIO: David Guglielmo is a proud member of the Casting Society of America, and is best known for casting acclaimed festival hits including The Standoff at Sparrow Creek(TIFF Premiere), Run Hide Fight (Venice Premiere), and Shelby Oaks, which was acquired by Neon for a wide theatrical release following its festival run. He just completed casting the new entry to the Evil Dead Franchise, Evil Dead Wrath, for Sam Raimi’s Ghost House Pictures, Sony and New Line. Prior, he served as Head of Casting for the legendary horror brand Fangoria during the launch of its first studio. He recently completed his first television series, The Pendragon Cycle. As a producer, Guglielmo recently wrapped Frontier Crucible, a western starring Armie Hammer, Thomas Jane, and William H. Macy. He also served as Executive Producer on the successful cop thriller Muzzle and its sequel, Muzzle: City of Wolves, both starring Aaron Eckhart. Additional producing credits include the indie standout The Last Stop in Yuma County and the gothic western Killing Faith, starring Guy Pearce and Bill Pullman. As a director, his feature thrillers No Way to Live, Hospitality, and Love Bomb are all available on VOD. +++++++++++++++ Download this episode today and discover what really happens after you press Submit. If you found value in this conversation, please subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts. Every subscription helps us continue to bring you candid discussions with the entertainment industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, producers, directors, and filmmakers; sharing insights, experiences, and behind-the-scenes knowledge you won't find anywhere else. Your support allows us to keep these conversations going, giving artists everywhere access to the advice, inspiration, and practical tools they need to build lasting careers in an ever-evolving industry.

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Legandary Casting Director Deborah Aquila Gives Us A Look Into Behind The Scenes of Casting

INTRO: Today’s guest is legendary casting director Deborah Aquila, one of the most respected and influential casting professionals in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning more than four decades, Deborah has helped shape some of the most iconic films and and television series of our time, including The Shawshank Redemption, La La Land, CODA, Primal Fear, Mission: Impossible II, Varsity Blues, Dexter, and many more. In this episode, Deborah takes us behind the scenes of a remarkable career - from discovering emerging talent and building unforgettable ensembles to the evolution of casting in film and television. Deborah, welcome to VersaVision. We are honored to have you. Deborah's Word of the Week: FAITH Film and television recommendations: WIDOW'S BAY and HBO's THE PITT Producer: Devyn Arnold Intro: Tamika Katon-Donegal Deborah Aquila Biography: DEB’S BIO: After graduating from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and The Stella Adler Conservatory, Deborah Aquila worked on the first two seasons of MIAMI VICE and several feature films including Michael Mann's MAN HUNTER and THE POPE OF GREENWICH VILLAGE as an associate. Her independent casting director career began with Steven Soderbergh's SEX, LIES AND VIDEOTAPE and Uli Edel's THE LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN. Before moving to Los Angeles in 1993 to cast Frank Darabont's THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, Deborah had completed over 18 independent films in New York. In 1993, she was named Senior Vice-President of Features Casting for Paramount Pictures. During her nine-year tenure at the Studio, Deborah cast such notable films as PRIMAL FEAR, MISSION IMPOSSIBLE II, DOUBLE JEOPARDY, VARSITY BLUES, THE BRADY BUNCH, KISS THE GIRLS, MOTHER, and WHAT WOMEN WANT. In March of 2020, Deborah returned to Paramount as Executive Vice President of PTVS Casting. In February 2023, Deborah was elevated to Executive Vice President, Head of Casting for both CBS Studios and Paramount Television Studios. Most recent film credits: CODA,” “CHERRY, THE TOMORROW WAR, LA LA LAND, WONDER, STRONGER, DEEP WATER HORIZON, and WOMAN IN GOLD. Television credits include the critically acclaimed Showtime Series DEXTER, FX’s THE SHIELD, and TNT’s MOB CITY. Deborah is a proud member of the CSA and has been nominated 18 times by the Casting Society of America for the Artios Award, winning for the features RED, MY WEEK WITH MARILYN, LA LA LAND, and CODA. In 2003, Deborah was recognized by the Hollywood community with the HOLLYWOOD FILM FESTIVAL CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. In 2020, Deborah was recognized with the CSA’S HOYT BOWERS’ AWARD FOR CAREER ACHIEVEMENT. In 2021, the SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL honored CODA with the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast. Deborah has been a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1994. +++++++++++++++ Download this episode today and discover what really happens after you press Submit. If you found value in this conversation, please subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts. Every subscription helps us continue to bring you candid discussions with the entertainment industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, producers, directors, and filmmakers; sharing insights, experiences, and behind-the-scenes knowledge you won't find anywhere else. Your support allows us to keep these conversations going, giving artists everywhere access to the advice, inspiration, and practical tools they need to build lasting careers in an ever-evolving industry.

Legandary Casting Director Deborah Aquila Gives Us A Look Into Behind The Scenes of Casting

INTRO: Today’s guest is legendary casting director Deborah Aquila, one of the most respected and influential casting professionals in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning more than four decades, Deborah has helped shape some of the most iconic films and and television series of our time, including The Shawshank Redemption, La La Land, CODA, Primal Fear, Mission: Impossible II, Varsity Blues, Dexter, and many more. In this episode, Deborah takes us behind the scenes of a remarkable career - from discovering emerging talent and building unforgettable ensembles to the evolution of casting in film and television. Deborah, welcome to VersaVision. We are honored to have you. Deborah's Word of the Week: FAITH Film and television recommendations: APPLE'S TV's WIDOW'S BAY and THE PITT on HBO MAX Deborah Aquila Biography: DEB’S BIO: After graduating from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and The Stella Adler Conservatory, Deborah Aquila worked on the first two seasons of MIAMI VICE and several feature films including Michael Mann's MAN HUNTER and THE POPE OF GREENWICH VILLAGE as an associate. Her independent casting director career began with Steven Soderbergh's SEX, LIES AND VIDEOTAPE and Uli Edel's THE LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN. Before moving to Los Angeles in 1993 to cast Frank Darabont's THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, Deborah had completed over 18 independent films in New York. In 1993, she was named Senior Vice-President of Features Casting for Paramount Pictures. During her nine-year tenure at the Studio, Deborah cast such notable films as PRIMAL FEAR, MISSION IMPOSSIBLE II, DOUBLE JEOPARDY, VARSITY BLUES, THE BRADY BUNCH, KISS THE GIRLS, MOTHER, and WHAT WOMEN WANT. In March of 2020, Deborah returned to Paramount as Executive Vice President of PTVS Casting. In February 2023, Deborah was elevated to Executive Vice President, Head of Casting for both CBS Studios and Paramount Television Studios. Most recent film credits: CODA,” “CHERRY, THE TOMORROW WAR, LA LA LAND, WONDER, STRONGER, DEEP WATER HORIZON, and WOMAN IN GOLD. Television credits include the critically acclaimed Showtime Series DEXTER, FX’s THE SHIELD, and TNT’s MOB CITY. Deborah is a proud member of the CSA and has been nominated 18 times by the Casting Society of America for the Artios Award, winning for the features RED, MY WEEK WITH MARILYN, LA LA LAND, and CODA. In 2003, Deborah was recognized by the Hollywood community with the HOLLYWOOD FILM FESTIVAL CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. In 2020, Deborah was recognized with the CSA’S HOYT BOWERS’ AWARD FOR CAREER ACHIEVEMENT. In 2021, the SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL honored CODA with the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast. Deborah has been a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1994. +++++++++++++++ Download this episode today and discover what really happens after you press Submit. If you found value in this conversation, please subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts. Every subscription helps us continue to bring you candid discussions with the entertainment industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, producers, directors, and filmmakers; sharing insights, experiences, and behind-the-scenes knowledge you won't find anywhere else. Your support allows us to keep these conversations going, giving artists everywhere access to the advice, inspiration, and practical tools they need to build lasting careers in an ever-evolving industry.

Jake O'Flaherty on the Myth of "Waiting for the Right Time"

Jake O'Flaherty has one of those careers that spans almost every corner of the business, including actor, coach, professor, producer, writer, theatre founder, and someone who's worked consistently for decades. In this episode we're exploring the many hats Jake has worn throughout his career and the lessons he learned along the way. He says that this means you must start treating yourself like a business and create your own opportunities. It's not show business he says, it's the business of show and turning up is 100%. He has booked more than 200 national commercials and voiceovers, and appeared on series major television series, Shameless, Lethan Weapn, Criminal Minds, The King of Queens, CSI:NY, 9-1-1 Lone Star, and many more. Jake was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, raised in Tampa, Florida, received a Bachelor's degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Master's degree in TV/Film/Screenwriting from Regent University in Virginia. Jake has booked over 200 national commercials and voice-overs, as well as TV and Film. In 2012, Jake started the Whitefire Theatre Company in Sherman Oaks with Artistic Director Bryan Rasmussen, and produced all the original productions of the "Shorts" series, along with creating the "Dead Pilots Society" and "Hollywood Shorts" & other various productions. Jake has been teaching at the Los Angeles Performing Arts Conservatory in Santa Monica in various classes since 1998, which led him to coaching actors and eventually celebrity clients like Ken Jeong etc. Recently, Jake wrote, produced, and starred in the web series "Failure To Parent" with Carolyn Hennesy, which has been optioned and is being shopped as a 1/2-hour comedy. He wrote his first full-length play with playwright Tom Misuraca called "Suicidal Blonde", directed by Candi Milo and starring Kimmy Robertson, which sold out for 6 weeks in LA, and is hopefully coming to NYC soon. In the film "Red Pill", written/directed by actress/author/Tony winner Tonya Pinkins, he is starring alongside Ruben Blades, Kathryn Erbe, Luba Mason, Cathy Curtain, Colby Minifie, and Adesola Osakalumi. In 2024 doing an off-Broadway production of an original play called In A Roundabout Way directed by Kim Sykes. Jake is also a Professor at Pepperdine University & Los Angeles City College. Jake's Word of the Week: BELIEVE Download this episode now and discover what happens after you press "submit." If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us as we bring you the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers—sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

The Latino Filmmaker Changing What American Stories Look Like With Authenticity, And Identity in Film

Today's guest is award-winning filmmaker Daniel Eduvijes Carrera, whose work has screened at some of the world's most prestigious festivals, including Cannes, Tribeca, Guadalajara, Morelia, and Palm Springs. His work has been shown at celebrated cultural institutions from the American Library in Paris to the Cineteca Nacional in Mexico City. Most recently, Daniel received the American Pavilion Best Short Film Award at the Cannes Film Festival, adding to a remarkable list of honors that includes the Imagen Award, the DGA Student Film Award for Best Latino Film Director, and Top Prize in Ovation TV's Next Revolutionary Filmmaker. A Fulbright Scholar in Film, Daniel is also a recipient of the Rockefeller Foundation/Tribeca Film Institute Media Arts Fellowship, the NHFA and NALAC film grants, the Djerassi Artist Residency Award for screenwriting, and is a fellow of both the Produire au Sud Program in France and Film Independent's Project: Involve. As a first-generation queer Mexican-American, Daniel brings a lived authenticity to stories about identity, culture, family, and belonging. In this episode, he's giving us an inside look into his films and sharing what authenticity really means when telling culturally specific stories, the realities of casting for diverse roles, and what it takes to bring underrepresented voices to global audiences. Daniel, welcome to VersaVision — we are thrilled to have you! Download this episode now and discover what happens after you press "submit." If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us as we bring you the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers—sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.

How To Get The Fastest YES From Casting with Casting Director Michael Sanford

HOW TO GET THE FASTEST "YES" FROM CASTING WITH CASTING DIRECTOR MICHAEL SANFORD This week on VersaVision, award-winning Casting Director Michael Sanford - founder of Sanford Casting and the casting director behind more than 2,000 commercial campaigns and projects including the Oscar-winning film The Artist - joins us for an inside look at what gets actors the fastest “yes” from casting. Michael shares unforgettable audition stories, self tape mistakes actors don’t realize they’re making, and the subtle qualities that make casting want to bring actors back again and again. If you’ve ever wondered what makes casting say yes immediately - or what gets actors passed on just as quickly - this episode is for you! Word of the Week: Patience Download this episode now and discover what happens after you press "submit." If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to VersaVision wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us as we bring you the industry's leading casting directors, agents, managers, actors, and filmmakers—sharing the real-world insights, experiences, and advice that can help take your career to the next level. Your support helps us continue creating these conversations.