In this episode, we’re joined by the hilarious and insightful Adam Capriolo who has been performing since grade school, dreaming of the stage from as early as first grade. Together, we dive into the ever-changing comedy landscape, reflecting on how the lack of funding for writers and shifting industry trends have impacted the genre we all miss so much.

From starting out as an actor at 18 to landing a role on The Bold Type and leveraging it for career-changing opportunities, Adam shares how small, unexpected projects often bring the most joy—proving that bigger doesn’t always mean better. He opens up about the unique challenges of acting: the uncertainty of long-term roles, the insecurity of waiting for the next call, and how it can feel like being in an “abusive relationship” with the industry.

We also discuss the realities of modern streaming, the pros and cons of serial versus episodic TV, and what networks and streamers are looking for today. Through it all, Adam reminds us to focus on the craft, not the category or the prestige of the studio, and to find fulfillment in the work itself.

✨ Key Takeaways:

This episode is a refreshing, grounded take on staying true to yourself in a business that can be unpredictable and overwhelming. Laugh with us, reflect with us, and leave feeling inspired to find joy in every step of your creative journey!

GUEST: Adam Capriolo

Haus of Marc: https://www.hausofmarc.com/adam-capriolo

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5924611/

Resurrection! at the Centaur Theatre: https://centaurtheatre.com/box-office/events/

Do you really need to know how to ski to land that Hallmark movie? Not necessarily! In this episode, we break down when special skills truly make a difference in booking a role. From leads in skiing-centric films (spoiler: it’s about your performance, not your slopes skills) to supporting roles in a gymnastics school scene where real ability is key, we’ll help you navigate how to market your talents. Tune in for insights on submitting smart, standing out, and understanding what casting directors prioritize when it comes to special skills.

In the room today, Suzanna and Jess talk all about getting kids into the business. Jess talks first hand how her nephew and niece got into acting and auditioning. Listen to hear tips and tricks and some insider info on how to get started and if you or your kids have the right personality for it

In this episode, we chat with Alba Gil, an amazing director and filmmaker whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how she moved to Canada from Mexico with a background in advertising and had to start from scratch in Montreal. From working as an assistant director to production manager to finally becoming a director, her story is all about resilience and determination.

We talk about some of her big moments—like her directing debut while breastfeeding her five-month-old baby (with a super supportive team behind her!) and how a trip back to Mexico for a female directors’ panel changed everything. That trip reconnected her with her roots, and before she knew it, she was working on Netflix’s Triada.

She also opens up about navigating a male-dominated industry, finding her authentic leadership style, and the internal work it took to trust herself, think big, and take bold chances.

It’s a story of embracing who you are, breaking barriers, and carving your own path. Let's get into it!

Alba Gil: https://www.alba-gil.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albagil/

In the room today, Suzanna and Jess bring us up to speed on how their year went. From Suzanna signing with a new agent and diving deeper with her students to Jess' projects (Karate Kid, Plan B Season 3 and Prophet of Ecstasy). Suzanna expresses the importance of timing when it comes to signing with a new agent and even booking a role on a series. Just because it hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it isn't going to. Let's get into it

In the room today is Kenny Wong, an award-winning screen writer, actor and violinist. Kenny tells us about how he got into acting after a devastating diagnosis during his time at McGill University in the music performance program. He gets in to how he made that transition, the work he put in and the dedication he had to achieving his goals. Kenny also tells us how he turned his diagnosis in to a script, which went on to win many awards! We hear about how he signed with his first and current agents, his highs and lows, auditions and bookings. Kenny also tells us about his experience on NBC's Transplant where he played the recurring role of Arnold for 4 seasons! He also shares some great tips for actors. Kenny is charismatic, driven, talented and has an amazing work ethic. Let's get into it!

Suzanna and Jess get into different approaches to casting after having spoken to Toronto Casting Director, Hannah Antaki (episode out Nov. 23). We talk about the pros and cons of Zoom and self-tape auditions, reiterate that the auditions are auditions and NOT workshops and if you do decide to expand to Toronto, understand how competitive it is - but don't be deterred! Let's get into it!

Suzanna's online course:

⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠

FOLLOW US

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠ 

Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna and Jess talk about the stress and realities of being a day player on a series. We give you tips on how to prepare and ease the nerves a bit. We also preview Thursdays episode with the great Anik Matern, actor, coach, healer!

Let's get into it!

FOLLOW US

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@booktheroompodcast/videos⁠ 

Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/booktheroompodcast/⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089225750910

Suzanna's online course:

⁠https://www.udemy.com/course/on-camera-acting-with-suzanna-lenir/?couponCode=BACKTOACTING⁠