The world has changed exponentially this past year. With protests bringing the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement to the forefront of mainstream media, as well as the unprecedented global pandemic we’re all currently living through, it has been difficult to see a spark in our creative lives. 

In today’s episode of Hollywood Dream Maker, I’m joined by ‘Doom Patrol’ star and talented Voice Over Artist, Phil Morris! Phil shares his advice for budding voiceover artists and actors within the industry and gives his insights into what he has learned while pursuing such a diverse and rigorous line of work. Having worked in a field that is so profoundly diverse, the ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests have been an integral influence in Phil’s professional and personal life. Phil opens up about the impact that the movement has had on him personally, particularly as someone whose Father was so prolific for African Americans in the entertainment industry, how Hollywood culture has shifted towards black actors, and how the people he has had an impact on have made him a more gracious individual.

Join us on Episode 12 to hear more!

Some Questions I Ask:

• How have you been holding up during lockdown? (2:35)
• How many years have you been doing voiceover work professionally? (4:18)
• What advice would you give to young actors wanting to pursue voiceover work? (6:30)
• What did your journey breaking out of the soap opera scene look like? (15:01)
• Could you talk about the speech you made at a recent ‘Black Lives Matter’ rally & Share what the movement means to you? (19:26)
• How does ‘Wing Chun’ affect your acting performance? (25:06)
• How long have you been in the entertainment business? (34:07)
• What do you think the future of Hollywood looks like? (34:37)
• What advice would you give to your younger self? (35:55)

In This Episode You Will Learn:

• Some background on mine and Phil’s friendship (1:32)
• Projects, Films and TV Series you may know Phil from (5:16)
• Phil’s path to Hollywood as someone who grew up with a famous parent (9:35)
• Our perspective on the sustainability and performance of soap opera acting (12:49)
• How Phil ‘found his funny’ before developing his characters (16:14)
• How Phil’s actions at racial protests evoked gratitude in those he never expected (23:03)
• Phil’s advice for budding actors making their start in the industry (27:15)
• The rise of ‘self-tapes’ in the entertainment industry & Why they have helped Phil stay inspired during lockdown (31:11)

Let’s Connect!

• Manhattan Actor Studio

Connect With Phil Morris:

• Twitter
• Phil Morris - IMDb

Resources:

• IMDb Page - ‘Ghosts of the Ozarks’

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Hustling toward becoming a working actor is hard work. So how do you make it sustainable? 

You may have the dreams, you may have the skills, but you truly need the mindset and access to your inner compass to make sure your hard work is sustainable. 

In this episode, I’m excited to share my conversation with Michelle Sorro. She is a heart-centered entrepreneur and transformational trainer. She’s on a mission to empower millions to be seen and heard through the power of live video. She’s the founder and CEO of Live Video Mastery, co-founder of The Podcast Accelerator, and host of the Fire & Soul Podcast. She’s done it all, from meditating with the Dalai Lama to walking on fire to shooting over 4,000 hours of live TV on shows like Extra, Good Morning America, Today, and QVC. 

Together we talk about Michelle’s IMDb credits, her experience working on live TV, and how she’s used her skills to create a multi-million dollar business. She also shares her journey around letting go of “perfection” as a self-imposed expectation, the power of the mind, and how to create a sustainable career. 

Some Questions I Ask: 

• Tell me about your credits on IMDb? (10:09)
• What advice do you have for actors? (20:28)

In This Episode You Will Learn: 

• How Michelle conquered her expectation of perfection. (4:59)
• How Michelle found her niche on TV and used those skills to create impact with her online business. (10:21)
• How to access your inner compass and create a sustainable career. (20:52)
• How to shift your mindset from being focused on the hustle to being focused on flow. (24:23)
• What is the Fire & Soul Podcast all about? (34:38)

Connect with Michelle Sorro: 

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Fire & Soul Podcast

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

Resources: 

Tony Robbins: Date with Destiny

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How do you know if you should pursue acting? 

Ask yourself this question: Are you having fun? 

If the answer is anything other than an enthusiastic yes, run in the other direction. But if the answer is yes, then you’ve found your calling. 

In this episode, I talk with the one and only David Proval, who starred in the movie Nunzio, which was shot on my block growing up. Because of David Proval, I became Billy Gallo the actor and started the Manhattan Actor Studio. You may also recognize David from his starring role in Mean Streets, The Phantom, The Sopranos, or The Shawshank Redemption. 

Throughout our conversation, David shares the details of his journey as an actor so far, what advice he has for young and aspiring actors, and how he knew that life as an actor was it for him. He also shares what he remembers from shooting Nunzio, where I played an extra as a child on set. 

In This Episode You Will Learn: 

• How David Proval knew that he was meant to become an actor. (10:18)
• How David landed his starring role in Mean Streets. (23:30
• Why David walked away from a role on Laverne & Shirley. (30:54)
• How David landed his role in Nunzio. (35:54)
• The question that will determine if you should or should not continue acting. (50:00)
• What it was like for David to audition for The Sopranos. (52:03)

Resources: 

David Proval’s IMDb

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

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If you want to be an actor, your passion for the craft must be bulletproof. 

When you’re first starting out, it doesn’t matter how good or bad you are as long as you have the passion, perseverance, and willingness to work hard. You can learn the skills, but the passion must have a stronghold on your heart. 

In this episode, I talk with Ilia Volok. He’s a lifetime member of the Actor’s Studio, faculty at Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, and has appeared in over 150 films, television shows and video games. In other words, he’s the actor’s actor. 

Throughout our conversation, Ilia details his experience of moving from Russia to Hollywood with only $300 in his pocket and without speaking a word of English. All he had was the passion and dream to become a successful actor. He shares some of his favorite acting exercises, resources, and strategies for landing roles, working on yourself, and showing up in a way that will make the casting director remember who you are.  

Some Questions I Ask: 

• When did you know that you wanted to become an actor? (4:48)
• How did you get an agent? (10:59)
• What was the first job you booked? (13:09)
• What is your approach to the craft of acting? (20:30)
• What is your approach to auditioning? (47:01)
• How Ilia handles self-doubt. (51:15)
• What advice do you have for young, aspiring actors? (57:45)
• What’s your favorite Hollywood story? (1:02:12)

In This Episode You Will Learn: 

• How Ilia Volok’s acting career began. (3:46)
• Why Ilia became an actor. (19:32)
• What book Ilia recommends for young actors looking to enhance their craft. (23:00)
• How Ilia overcome stage fright. (28:14)
• The exercises Ilia practices to work on his craft. (35:10)
• How auditioning off-book allows you to feel free and make bold choices. (47:07)
• How to create a self-tape that will make the casting director remember you. (54:05)

Resources: 

Acting: The First Six Lessons by Richard Boleslavsky

The Art of Acting by Stella Adler

Private Moment exercise

Animal Exercise

Connect with Ilia Volok

IMDb

Instagram

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

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What makes you stand out from the crowd? 

Once you step into the audition room, that’s not the time to start playing it small. That’s the time to start taking risks, to be bold, and to leave a piece of your soul. That’s what’s going to make you stand out from the crowd: refusing to play it small and playing full-out. 

On this episode, I talk with Kanica Suy, a life and career coach with 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Her main focus has been working with talent to develop and grow their careers both in front of the camera as well as in business. Throughout our conversation, Kanica shares her strategies for bringing the best out of her clients, providing tips on everything from getting an agent, growing your social media, and how to create a self-tape.  

It’s time to make your move! 

Some Questions I Ask: 

• How did you wind up in Hollywood? (2:20)
• What’s your advice to aspiring actors looking to get some representation? (4:10)
• What should aspiring actors put on their Instagram or Facebook for casting directors to see? (10:23)
• What should actors not do when looking to get representation? (21:49)
• What’s the future look like for the casting world? (26:03)

In This Episode You Will Learn: 

• Why confidence is the most essential characteristic you can bring to the audition room. (4:18)
• How to prepare and put your best self forward to propel your career. (5:02)
• Why social media followers will never replace talent. (9:27)
• How to create a self-tape. (11:38)
• Why taking risks and being bold will land you the role you’re looking for. (17:32)
• How Hollywood has evolved over the last 20 years. (24:24)

Connect with Kanica Suy: 

Website

Instagram

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

Resources: 

Inner-City Filmmakers

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If you want to be an actor, you have to make your dream happen. 

On this episode, I talk with Brian Goodman, who is an incredibly talented actor, writer, producer, and director. You name it, he’s done it. You might recognize him from The Fast and the Furious, Catch Me If You Can, or several other movies. He also has written and directed What Doesn’t Kill You, starring Mark Ruffalo and Ethan Hawke. 

Brian is a prime example of what it means to really make your dream come true. He didn’t move out to Hollywood until he was 37 years old. Coming from a rough childhood, living on the streets, getting shot, becoming sober, and spending several years in prison, Brian was able to take back control over his life through his acting career and dedication to the craft.  

Some Questions I Ask: 

• Where are you from? (8:24)
• What are you working on right now? (32:20)
• What do you do for your mental state? (33:32)
• How are your kids doing? (47:43)
• Who are some of your favorite directors to work with? (56:31)

In This Episode, You Will Learn: 

• How Brian Goodman and I met. (2:47)
• How Brian moved from living a life of violence to finding passion in acting. (10:10)
• How Brian stepped into the acting world after he was released from jail. (15:21)
• About Brian’s experience directing Black Butterfly. (21:56)
• Why Brian leans on his spirituality in his day-to-day life. (33:38)
• Why it’s essential to live in faith instead of fear. (40:49)
• How staying sober transformed Brian’s life. (47:43)

Connect with Brian Goodman: 

Facebook

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

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What do you do in the audition room? 

Too many people freeze up, get in their heads, and forget to leave a piece of their soul in that room. Auditioning for a role is one of the toughest parts of working as an actor, but if you walk in fully prepared, confident, and equipped with the right strategies, you’ll be well on your way to scoring a new role. 

On this episode, I’m talking all about the art of the audition. To start off, I tell the in-depth story of how I landed my first audition and scored my first role, breaking the story down, moment-by-moment, and sharing what I did right and what I should never do again. You will also learn about the lobby game, what to expect, and how to get an edge over your competition.

Tune in to learn how to rock your next audition and land your dream role!

In This Episode, You Will Learn: 

• How I became my own agent & scored my first acting gig in Hollywood. (1:37)
• 3 strategies that give you a leg up in an audition. (10:20)
• How to walk into the audition room. (20:25)
• How to prepare for your audition. (25:07)
• How to play the lobby game and win. (30:00)
• Why you should prepare an intelligent question to ask casting directors in the audition room. (33:49)
• What to do after the audition. (37:37)

Let’s Connect! 

Manhattan Actor Studio

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Still haven’t quite conquered that pesky stage fright? 

You’re in the right place at the right time. On this episode, I talk with Joseph McClendon III, who is one of the most sought-after ultimate performance specialists in the industry. He’s worked with Academy Award-Winning actors, is a bestselling author, holds a doctorate in Neuropsychology, and shares the stage with Tony Robbins. He’s presented to well over 4 million people around the globe, helping them live happier, healthier, and more productive lives. 

Throughout this episode, Joseph shares some key lessons he’s learned throughout his life and career thus far, particularly around building your confidence and releasing negative energy in your body. He also provides transformational self-development resources and tools you can use immediately to start setting yourself up for a positive, productive, happy, and healthy future. 

Some Questions I Ask: 

• How do you go from being homeless to having celebrities wanting to pay you $350k per year to be coached by you? (8:49)
• What advice do you have for actors with stage fright? (13:57)
• Can you explain some of your Josephisms? (20:45)
• What books would you recommend people read? (37:10)

In This Episode, You Will Learn: 

• How Joseph started working on stage at Tony Robbins events. (4:59)
• How to use affirmations to build up your confidence. (14:54)
• What is assitude? (21:52)
• How to intentionally disrupt your thought patterns to conquer fear. (24:33)
• How physically journaling creates new neural associations and manifestations in your life. (27:45)
• How to master self-certainty. (44:18)

Connect with Joseph McClendon III: 

Website

Twitter

Facebook 

Instagram

Resources: 

Self-Certainty Masterclass

Tony Robbins: Unleash the Power Within

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill

Awesome Sauce by Joseph McClendon III

Get Happy Now by Joseph McClendon III

Live Video Mastery Course

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Ready to turn your life around? 

If you have a passion for acting, it could be your opportunity to turn over a new leaf. Emilio Rivera is a prime example of how you can turn your life around, create positivity in your life, and make your dreams come true. 

You might know Emilio from his role as Marcus “El Padrino” Alvarez from Sons of Anarchy. He’s been on hundreds of TV shows and movies, and he didn’t start as an 18-year-old, fresh out of high school. 

Throughout this episode, Emilio shares his story of how he became an actor at 29 years old and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He touches on how he became sober, learned to lose the “tough guy” mask, and the teacher that opened up the door to his career as an actor. 

Some Questions I Ask: 

• Where did your dream of acting come from? (10:48)
• If you could advise your younger self, what would you say? (32:42)

In This Episode, You Will Learn: 

• Why Emilio turned his life around at 29 years old:  stop using drugs and live sober. (4:58)
• How acting helped Emilio learn to cry and become human again. (10:12)
• Why Emilio always pulls for fellow actors. (20:36)
• What filming shootout scenes is really like. (28:42)
• How I got my first job in Hollywood. (36:07)
• What it means to treat everyone with respect. (56:09)

Connect with Emilio Rivera: 

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Let’s Connect!

Manhattan Actors Studio

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Today I’m joined by veteran Stunt Man, Andy Dylan! Having had years of experience in the industry as both a Stunt Coordinator and Professional Stunt Man, Andy is one of the most trusted guests on giving advice to aspiring performers. 

In this episode, we discuss the journey Andy has been on throughout his career, how the stunt industry has changed over the years, and what skill sets are important for an artist to have outside of strength and athletics. 

We also talk about the contrast between the acting side of the entertainment industry as opposed to stunt performing. There are many key technical steps that can be taken from each facet of the filmmaking process and Andy gives some wonderful insights on these. 

If you want to learn more about the stunt business from the man himself, then tune in to Episode 3 of Hollywood Dream Makers! 

Some Questions I Ask:

• What would you say to those wanting to pursue a career as a stunt professional? (4:48)
• When did you know you wanted to become a stuntman? (9:17)
• Was your first year in the business similar to that of an actor’s? (12:13)
• What were your first accomplishments in the industry? (15:38)
• What skills should people have if they want to become a stunt person? (20:38)
• Who have you stunt-doubled for? (22:40)
• What project that you’ve worked on are you most proud of? (27:48)
• What are you currently working on at the moment? (31:37)
• What advice would you give to your younger self? (31:54)
• What’s next for you? (33:44)

In This Episode You Will Learn:

• What my life looked like before starting ‘Manhattan Actor Studio’ (2:24)
• Background on Andy before he was a professional stuntman (9:22)
• Tips for maintaining a high quality work ethic in the stunt industry (16:42)
• How stunt performers skill sets have evolved over the years (18:32)
• Behind the scenes processes of ‘12 Years A Slave’ and how those concepts are applied in filmmaking (27:52)
• What specialties made Andy stand out in the stunt industry (30:55)

Connect With Billy Gallo:

• Website
• Email
• Twitter
• Manhattan Actor Studio

https://www.instagram.com/actorbillygallo/

Connect With Andy Dylan:

• IMDb
• Email

Resources:

• Book - “Stuntman!: My Car-Crashing, Plane-Jumping, Bone-Breaking, Death-Defying Hollywood Life” Author, Hal Needham
• Book - “True Adventures of The World’s Greatest Stuntman” Author, Vic Armstrong

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