In this episode, Keema Mingo, a Casting Director, mom, and percussionist, joins Kenya to shed light into the mind of a busy casting director. She explains why you shouldn't waste time on the past and how to embrace the future knowing you probably have more skills than you think. Keema shares how she leveraged the skills she acquired while working in TV news, music videos and commercials to excel in her current role as a Casting Director. She emphasizes the casting professional's desire for actors to succeed and how finding the perfect fit for a role brings her a sense of pride. Keema talks about the importance of being comfortable with starting fresh in a new field and utilizing previously acquired skills to support personal growth. She emphasizes the value of working well with new people, avoiding time-wasting, and having a forward momentum. Keema and Kenya talk about the importance of being humble and willing to learn and talks about the belief that some actors may feel as though casting directors are working against them. At the end of the episode, Keema discusses some upcoming projects she is super excited about.

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Also Talked About:

• Keema started in TV news and learned production skills, working on music videos and commercial projects. However, she was fired from her first job, which she now can help others learn to see endings as an opportunity to start anew and bring one's existing skill set to new projects.

• Humility is key to growth, and executing your skills in a new area. Don't be afraid to be a small 11 instead of a big 10!

• Keema discusses her first casting experience for a scripted project, the political satire Obamaland, which was ahead of its time and reflects current events.

• Keema talks about her excitement for assembling casts and projects with complementary skill sets, looks, and expertise that can push and elevate each other's capabilities. She believes that true chemistry is essential for success.

• Keema is proud of her latest film, Latent, and the casting choices that brought the project to life.

• Keema also shares critical insight for actors, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in the entertainment industry. Actors should understand that casting directors often work in stressful situations with tight deadlines, and they are not wanting to see you fail.

• Actors should understand that show business is a business, and success depends on the ability to collaborate effectively and understand the needs of the industry.

• Keema highlights the story behind the year-long casting process for the film Precious, which shows the importance of finding the right person for the right role.

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Kenya: IG

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Keema: IG | Latent

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