Palmer Ashe III sits down with writer-producer Jim Towns for a candid conversation about breaking into film, directing actors, and navigating the realities of indie production.

Jim shares how he went from making home movies as a teenager to becoming a filmmaker who writes, shoots, edits, and produces his own projects. He discusses directing performers, working with limited budgets, managing production roles, and why filmmakers benefit from understanding every part of the process.

They also explore Jim’s work on projects including House of Bad, Mercy, and Whisper House, along with practical lessons about collaboration, communication, distribution, and building a creative career one project at a time.

Perfect for aspiring actors, indie filmmakers, and anyone curious about how films really get made.

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Newark, Delaware is quietly building a real film ecosystem—and if you’re still waiting for Hollywood to give you permission, this conversation will change how you think about making it.Palmer Ashe III sits down with Kazi Tauginas—actor, filmmaker, and founder of the Newark Independent Film Festival—to talk about building opportunities instead of waiting for them. Kazi shares his journey from running a 24-hour diner and studying acting in New York to working on projects like John Wick and The Equalizer 2, then creating a festival to elevate local talent.They discuss:

• Why festivals should create collaboration, not just competition
• Why sound mix can make or break a film
• How actors and filmmakers can stand out and find their next project
• Delaware’s growing opportunities for independent productions
• Why creatives need to think like owners, not just job seekers

If you’re an indie filmmaker, actor, writer, or creative tired of gatekeeping, this episode offers practical insight on how to create your own lane and get your work seen.

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Hollywood money is not random - it follows a ladder, and if you know where you sit on it, you can stop guessing and start planning. Palmer Ashe III breaks down exactly how actors get paid across non-union, union, co-star, guest star, and series regular work, including what each tier really means for your income.If you're trying to turn acting into a viable career, this episode gives you the numbers and the strategy. Palmer explains why non-union work can mean anything from zero pay to a few thousand dollars, what union background rates and bumps look like, and why co-star and day player roles are the real proving ground for working actors. He also shows how those first paid credits can open the door to recurring roles, bigger bookings, and a very different financial bracket. You'll discover:

• The difference between non-union and union work, and why the pay floor matters
• What extra, co-star, day player, guest star, and series regular roles typically pay
• How bumps work on union sets, from smoke and water to car use and other set changes
• Why co-star roles are often the gateway to guest star and recurring work
• How residuals fit into the equation, and why non-union jobs usually don't include them

Palmer also gets real about the financial reality most actors face off camera. He shares why many performers need side gigs, from voiceover to UGC to speaking engagements, and why having a support team can help you choose the jobs worth taking. If you've ever wondered how working actors actually make money, this episode lays it out clearly.Essential listening for actors, creatives, and anyone trying to make sense of the business side of performance. If you want to stay booked, stay paid, and keep your career moving, this episode is your roadmap.

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Most aspiring actors budget for classes and headshots, but miss the real money leaks that quietly drain their career. Palmer Ashe III breaks down the seven categories of spending that catch new actors off guard - and the simple choices that can save you hundreds every month.Palmer speaks from experience after starting late in his own acting journey and learning the hard way what actually matters. He shares what he wishes he knew before spending on headshots, self-tape gear, breakdown services, wardrobe, training, travel, and all the hidden costs that come with building a sustainable career.

• What to budget for headshots at each stage, from your first affordable package to the pricier shots that actually book work
• The bare-minimum self-tape setup you really need, including the tripod, lighting, and phone-based gear that delivers without overspending
• Why breakdown services can become a recurring money bleed, and how Palmer evaluates Actors Access, Casting Networks, and Backstage
• How to handle wardrobe costs for roles without buying a whole new closet every time
• The difference between classes, workshops, and ongoing training, and how to tell which ones are worth the money

Palmer also gets real about the parts nobody likes to talk about: travel costs, last-minute hotels, working local, and the scams actors fall for when they’re eager to get cast. If you’re trying to build momentum without blowing your budget, this episode gives you a practical roadmap before the bills start piling up.Perfect for new actors, returning actors, and anyone trying to turn self-tapes and side hustles into a real, sustainable career. If you want the truth about what it actually costs to get in the game, this is the episode to hear first.

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Palmer Ashe III shares his personal journey of career transformation and the power of manifestation in the entertainment industry. He emphasizes the importance of visualizing goals, staying intentional, and managing the highs and lows of the industry.

Takeaways

• Career transformation and the entertainment industry
• The power of visualization and manifestation

Chapters

• 00:00 Navigating Career Transformation
• 05:15 The Importance of Visualization
• 11:25 Manifestation and Intentionality
• 15:45 Managing Highs and Lows

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Most actors struggle to make their craft feel authentic — Gabi Faye reveals the secret weapon that transforms raw talent into unforgettable performances. You’ll discover how meticulous character detective work, psychological subtext, and deep emotional conditioning turn good actors into industry legends.

In this episode, Gabi and Palmer dive into the gritty details of acting mastery. She shares her journey from early theater roots to Hollywood roles like HBO’s Mayor of East Town and her award-winning work in film. You’ll learn why crafting a character’s psychology is like being a detective, unearthing what truly makes them tick and how to use that insight to unlock nuanced performances.We break down: What is crafting, the importance of understanding your character’s deep-seated fears and desires, and how to develop that method through specific techniques like animal work, breath control, and psychological gestures. Gabi reveals her process for staying present under emotional scenes, overcoming ego, and transforming method practices to protect her mental health. Plus, she discusses the crucial role of object symbolism, active questioning, and repeating mantras to maintain authenticity when acting in intense, high-stakes scenarios.Why does all this matter?

Because mediocre performances are the death of your career—missed opportunities, limited roles, and unmet potential. Mastering craft gives you freedom on set, allowing you to improvise, adapt, and create magic effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or just starting out, this episode offers the essential tools to elevate your performances quickly and sustainably.

Gabi Faye is a versatile actress and producer dedicated to pushing the boundaries of emotional storytelling, with a background rooted in theater and a passion for mental wellness in acting. She’s currently producing her debut feature Living with Lou, a dark comedy about ALS reversals, inspired by her personal journey, and coaching actors through her new mentorship program.If you're serious about acting—or know someone committed to excellence—this episode unlocks the mindset and techniques that turn effort into excellence. Get ready to transform your craft and step into performances that captivate and inspire. Hit play now!

Unlock the secrets to building a thriving career in the film and entertainment industry—no matter your starting point. Palmer Ashe III reveals how genuine relationships, consistent quality work, and relentless passion can open doors from indie projects to big studio films. If you're dreaming of stepping behind the camera, acting on screen, or creating compelling stories, this episode is your blueprint for making it happen now.Palmer shares the power of networking—why introducing yourself on set and collecting social handles can lead to unexpected opportunities. He discusses how the industry has evolved since COVID, embracing diverse voices and fresh narratives that break the old mold. Discover how major studios are now investing in grounded, original stories, signaling a golden opportunity for new talent. You'll learn:

• The importance of building real connections early in your career
• How to navigate the transition from indie to big-budget projects
• Practical tips for creating content and showcasing your talent
• Why now is the perfect moment to pursue acting, producing, writing, or directing
• The mindset needed to seize opportunities before the industry moves on

This episode is perfect for aspiring actors, filmmakers, content creators, or anyone eager to make their mark in entertainment. Palmer’s insights—based on real experience—show you that the industry isn’t waiting. It’s time for you to get in, create, and thrive.Whether you're just starting out or are ready to level up, listen and learn how to turn your dreams into reality. The door is wide open—are you ready to walk through it?

This episode of Couch to Credits is a practical beginner’s guide to breaking into acting. Palmer walks listeners through the first steps of building an acting career, including identifying your type and archetype, getting affordable headshots, understanding your comparable actors, and finding early gigs through casting sites, networking, and local Facebook groups.

Think you're too old to break into acting? Think again.

In the very first episode of Couch to Credits, actor Palmer Ashe III shares why there has never been a better time to start pursuing film and television-even if you're starting later than everyone else. Learn what inspired the podcast, what to expect each week, and why your dream may be closer than you think.