This year marks a historic shift in the entertainment industry. For the first time, casting is being formally recognized at major awards including the Academy Awards and the Critics' Choice Awards.

On this episode of Casting Confidential: The Round Table, we break down what that recognition actually means — and what it doesn’t. After 35 years of advocacy, casting directors are finally being acknowledged above the line. But why was the craft overlooked for so long? And why does it still so rarely get mentioned in speeches, press coverage, or theatrical award shows like the Tony Awards?

The conversation dives into:

Why directors often get credit for “finding” talent

How casting’s work begins long before cameras roll

Why the craft is essential yet often invisible

The difference between creative collaboration and final decision-making

And how real industry recognition could shift moving forward

We also reference the documentary Casting By, which chronicled the long road toward acknowledgment for casting professionals.

If you’re serious about understanding how casting actually works, this one pulls back the curtain.

Sponsor: Rafy App

Rehearse, memorize, and self-tape anytime with Rafy, the app that scans your sides and lets you practice with realistic reader voices. With over 60 voices, a built-in teleprompter, multilingual support, and a script library called Playhouse, Rafy gives actors full control over their process.

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Join the Casting Confidential community on Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and live Q&As designed specifically for actors navigating the industry.

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CREDITS:

Host, Creator & Producer

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

ROUNDTABLE PANELISTS:

Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@kimberlyskyrme

Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA

@loudenkubin

Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@robincarus

Editor

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Original Music

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

FOLLOW THE SHOW AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON SOCIALS:

@castingconfidential

@roserosencasting

Join our Patreon here!

** Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

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In this episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen and guest co host, acclaimed casting director Shayna Markowitz sit down with legendary actor Christine Ebersole for an honest, deeply insightful conversation about craft, longevity, and what really happens behind the casting process.

Christine shares stories from her extraordinary career spanning Broadway, film, television, and cabaret. From Saturday Night Live and Tootsie to Amadeus, War Paint, and her latest film Is This Thing On, directed by Bradley Cooper. She opens up about navigating auditions at every stage of life, trusting instinct over industry noise, and why perseverance matters more than timing.

Shayna offers a rare look at casting from the other side of the table, including how actors with long-established careers are cast, how Zoom auditions have changed access and connection, and why casting directors are always rooting for actors to succeed. The conversation also touches on the long-overdue recognition of casting as an Academy Award category and what that means for the future of the profession.

This is a must-listen for actors seeking clarity, confidence, and truth about how careers are actually built—without mythology, without guesswork.

Rehearse, memorize, and self-tape anytime with Rafy, the app that scans your sides and lets you practice with realistic reader voices. With over 60 voices, a built-in teleprompter, multilingual support, and a script library called Playhouse, Rafy gives actors full control over their process. Visit rafy.app and use code CONFIDENTIAL15 for 15% off.

Join the Casting Confidential community on Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and live Q&As designed specifically for actors navigating the industry.
patreon.com/castingconfidential

For more episodes and resources, visit castingconfidential.com.
Hosted by Rose Rosen.

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CREDITS: 

Host, Creator & Producer

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

CO HOST

Shayna Markowitz

GUESTS:

Christine Ebersole

christine.ebersoleofficial

Editor

MZ Studios

mzstudiosdallas.com

Original Music

Orville Wright

ohyeahbeats

Artwork

Ace Anderson

aceshotthat

FOLLOW THE SHOW AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON SOCIALS:

@castingconfidential

Patreon

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, is joined by acclaimed casting director Kerry Barden (The Help, Winter's Bone, Dallas Buyers Club) and dynamic actor Amber Chardae Robinson (Palm Royale, Judas and the Black Messiah, LOOT). Together, they take a deep dive into the casting process for Palm Royale—a stylized period drama full of glamour and hidden grit.

Kerry shares the meticulous process behind assembling the series' all-star cast and discusses the nuance of reading actors, casting with authenticity, and balancing tone in a heightened world. Amber offers a candid look into her experience portraying an undercover FBI agent in a world steeped in 1960s privilege, reflecting on the personal and political weight of her role.

From actor vulnerability and the importance of energy in auditions to industry

scams and the power of saying yes to the journey, this episode is filled with

essential insights for working actors and industry professionals alike.

Plus, don’t miss the exclusive Casting Confidential Feedback Session, where

Amber and a guest actor perform a brand-new original scene and receive live

feedback from Kerry.

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Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Co Host:

Kerry Barden

@kerrybardencasting

Guest:

Amber Chardae Robinson

@ambershardae

Feedback Actor

Lewa Greenwood

@lewagreenwood

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a powerful Season 3 finale, Rose Rosen along with her co host casting director Kimberly Skyrme, welcome the multi-talented Shiri Appleby (Roswell, Unreal) for an inspiring deep dive into her remarkable journey from child actor to acclaimed director. Shiri shares candid insights into her

audition experiences—including the game-changing moment that landed her Roswell—and reveals the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into directing.

She discusses the evolution of casting, navigating self-tapes, and the importance of staying creatively fulfilled both on and off set. Plus, listeners are treated to a live feedback session with guest actor Alison Bauer in a dynamic scene read with Shiri.

Sponsors:

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Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Co Host:

Kimberly Skyrme

@kimberlyskyrme

Guest:

Shiri Appleby

@shiriappleby

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

Sides:

StageMilk

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus breakdown episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—to explore one of the industry's most enduring debates: typecasting. From its roots in the old studio system to its modern-day implications, the conversation unpacks when typecasting helps actors build careers and when it starts to hold them back.

Together, they share insights on how to leverage your “type” strategically, how to prepare to break out of it, and why knowing your lane doesn’t mean staying in it.

Plus, hear memorable anecdotes—including one about discovering the perfect cop on the side of the road—and practical advice on making your submissions stand out.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

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Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

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Follow the show and join our community on socials:

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Join Our Membership here:

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Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Robin Carus, CSA

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this dynamic episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, dives deep into the booming world of vertical filmmaking with breakout star TJ Wilk and Atlanta-based casting director Cheryl Louden-Kubin. TJ shares his unique journey from modeling and music to leading over 17 vertical films, racking up more than 250 million views across platforms. He discusses his audition process, mastering the emotional intimacy of vertical acting, and the evolving landscape of mobile-first storytelling. Cheryl offers insight into casting for this format, its surprising reach, and why it's here to stay.

Plus, don’t miss our Casting Confidential Feedback Session, where one lucky

actor reads live with TJ and receives real-time notes from our expert panel.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

Wright Positive Films

@shemeka_wright

https://www.wrightpositive.com

RAFY APP

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Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

MZ Studios Dallas

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Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Join Our Membership here:

https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Co-Host:

Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest:

TJ Wilk

@jwilkofficial

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

Sides:

StageMilk

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen, CSA, dives

into the vital world of callbacks — the crucial second look that often determines who books the role. Joined by fellow casting professionals, Cheryl Louden-Kubin, Robin Carus and Kimberly Skyrme, the conversation highlights why callbacks matter just as much as the initial audition and how actors can prepare to stand out a second time.

From the importance of replicating your audition look (yes, wear that pink

sweater again!) to maintaining a positive, professional attitude, this episode is full of essential advice for navigating the callback process. You'll hear real stories — some inspiring, some cautionary — that underscore how callbacks are more than just a repeat performance; they're about building relationships and showcasing flexibility.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

RAFY APP

https://rafy.app/

Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

MZ Studios Dallas

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Join Our Membership here:

https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this standout episode of Casting Confidential, Emmy-nominated actor Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere, HBO) joins host Rose Rosen and casting director Robin Carus for a candid, insightful, and often hilarious conversation about what it really takes to build a lasting acting career.

From humble beginnings as a social worker to two decades on the improv circuit, Jeff’s story is a testament to persistence, self-awareness, and the value of saying

“yes”—even when the path seems unclear. He discusses auditioning, navigating typecasting, and the reality behind “overnight success.” The episode also explores the evolving actor–casting director relationship and the collaborative spirit that fuels creative breakthroughs.

Plus, don’t miss our Actor Spotlight segment, featuring a compelling live scene read with UK-based actor Nanette Hearn Clark, followed by constructive

feedback from Jeff and our casting panel.

If you’re an actor—or anyone navigating the entertainment industry—this episode is not to be missed.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

Wright Positive Films

@shemeka_wright

https://www.wrightpositive.com

RAFY APP

https://rafy.app/

Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

MZ Studios Dallas

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Co Host:

Robin Carus

@robincarus

Guest:

Jeff Hiller

@boomboomhiller

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

Sides:

StageMilk

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered what really happens after you hit “submit” on an audition tape? In this behind-the-scenes bonus drop, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—for a candid, coast-to-coast conversation on what goes down in a casting director’s inbox.

From how tapes are reviewed and shared with producers, to the factors influencing callbacks (and why you might still be in the running even without a callback), this episode demystifies the audition pipeline. The panel also shares insights on labeling your footage, meeting submission deadlines, the impact of technology, and the importance of showing up consistently—even if you didn’t land the last role.

Don’t miss this invaluable insider knowledge that could change how you

approach every submission.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

RAFY APP

https://rafy.app/

Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

MZ Studios Dallas

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Join Our Membership here:

https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-member

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor Brandon Jay McLaren joins Rose Rosen, CSA, and casting director Molly Knight for a conversation about what it truly means to be a working actor. With credits spanning Power Rangers, Graceland, Snowfall, The Rookie, and Netflix’s new limited series Wayward, Brandon has built a career defined by range, adaptability, and consistency.

He shares stories from his earliest auditions, including the VHS tape that landed him Power Rangers, to working opposite icons like Laurence Fishburne and Toni Collette. Along the way, Brandon reflects on how self-taping has reshaped the audition process, why being open to direction is key, and how small choices, like a haircut, can shift an actor’s trajectory.

The episode also features a live scene read with Instagram raffle winner Kirsten Johnson, complete with feedback from Brandon, Molly, and Rose — a moment every actor can learn from.

Sponsors:

Casting Networks

@castingnetworks

https://castingnetworks.com/confidential

Wright Positive Films

@shemeka_wright

https://www.wrightpositive.com

RAFY APP

https://rafy.app/

Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10

MZ Studios Dallas

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Co Host:

Molly Knight

@mollyknightcasting

Guest:

Brandon Jay Mclearn

@brandonjaymclaren

Follow the show and join our community on socials:

@castingconfidential

Host, Creator and Producer:

Rose Rosen, CSA

@roserosencasting

Editor:

MZ Studios

https://mzstudiosdallas.com

Music:

Orville Wright

@ohyeahbeats

Artwork:

Ace Anderson

@aceshotthat

Sides:

StageMilk

**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.