In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Kat Fury discuss Kat's journey from a finance career in Singapore to pursuing acting in Toronto. Kat shares her experiences of moving to Canada, the challenges of starting a new career, and the supportive community within the acting industry. They explore the surprises and realities of acting, the importance of networking, and the whimsical nature of pursuing a career in the arts. She offers practical advice for those looking to make similar career changes, highlights memorable experiences in acting, and discusses her aspirations in fitness and comedy. Kat also stresses the significance of personal branding and entrepreneurship for artists, providing valuable resources for newcomers in the industry.

Takeaways

• Networking and taking classes are crucial in the acting industry.
• It's important to have hobbies outside of acting to stay motivated.
• Explore interests from childhood to guide your career path.
• Continuous learning and exploration are key to growth.

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In this conversation, John Mawson shares his unique journey from a successful career in the Merchant Navy to becoming an actor and filmmaker. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to pursue his passion for acting later in life, emphasizing the importance of commitment, continuous learning, and the collaborative nature of the arts. John also highlights his project 'Unsinkable,' inspired by a true story from World War II, showcasing his dedication to storytelling and resilience in the face of challenges. He shares insights on working with A-list actors, the release and reception of his project 'Unsinkable', and his aspirations for future film and TV adaptations.

Takeaways

• John emphasizes the importance of commitment and hard work in acting.
• The evolution of a story can be complex and multifaceted.
• Writing from a character's perspective can enhance storytelling.
• Good projects attract talent and collaboration.
• Writing is a technical skill that requires practice and learning..

https://wondery.com/shows/unsinkable/

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In this conversation, John Thomas Gauthier shares his journey into acting, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced while pursuing his passion in the entertainment industry. He emphasizes the importance of community, networking, and staying motivated amidst the ups and downs of an acting career. John also provides valuable advice for aspiring actors, particularly those looking to enter the industry later in life, and reflects on the realities of being a character actor in a visually driven industry. He emphasizes the importance of self-production in showcasing his range as an actor, while also reflecting on the support from his family and memorable moments on set. John looks ahead to future projects and offers insightful advice on finding joy in the creative process.

Takeaways

• Networking is crucial in the entertainment industry; it's often about who you know.
• Staying motivated involves surrounding yourself with supportive peers and exploring different roles.
• Formal education in acting does not guarantee success; passion and hard work are essential.
• Character actors often face challenges due to similar looks and types in casting.
• Being observant in everyday life can enhance acting skills. Having a unique appearance can be both an advantage and a disadvantage in acting.
• The relationship with oneself is the most important one.

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Amy Crater discuss Amy's journey from high school to Chicago, the challenges she faced throughout it all, and her eventual return to acting in Arizona. Amy shares her insights on navigating the unpredictable landscape of an acting career. She emphasizes the importance of intuition, the value of life experiences, and the necessity of finding stability amidst the chaos of the industry. She also highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in a constantly changing field, offering practical advice for aspiring actors.

Takeaways

• Finding a community is essential for growth in acting.
• Resilience is crucial when facing career challenges.
• Creativity allows for new directions in one's career.
• Life experiences contribute to personal growth and confidence as an actor.
• Respect everyone on set, regardless of their role.

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Pascal Langdale delve into the education system for actors, the illusion of a career ladder, and the necessity of finding joy in the craft of acting. Pascal emphasizes the importance of practicing and honing one's skills, regardless of industry recognition, and the need to maintain a sense of play in the art of acting. He emphasizes the importance of character immersion and the psychophysical relationships that actors must navigate to deliver authentic performances. Pascal shares his personal techniques for learning lines and the significance of embodied movement in acting. He also reflects on memorable moments in motion capture and offers advice for aspiring actors, highlighting the need for a long-term perspective in their careers.

Takeaways

• The acting industry is competitive and often disheartening.
• Education in acting does not guarantee success in the industry.
• Financial stability is crucial for aspiring actors.
• The concept of a career ladder in acting is misleading.
• Finding joy in acting is essential for long-term fulfillment.
• Embodied movement enhances acting skills.
• Psychophysical relationships inform character motivations.

Work With Pascal: http://collectiveintent.net/

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Alaine Hutton explore the intricacies of acting, the importance of listening, and the transition from sports to the performing arts. They discuss the challenges actors face in maintaining authenticity on camera, the skills transferred from athletics to acting, and the surprising business aspects of a career in the arts. The dialogue emphasizes the need for training, the value of being present, and the ongoing journey of self-improvement in both fields. They also delve into the creative process behind Alaine's work, particularly her show 'Honey I'm Home,' emphasizing the human experience and the role of failure in both art and life.

Takeaways

• Authenticity in acting is crucial for engaging performances.
• The ability to listen is a key skill for actors.
• The importance of creating your own opportunities in the arts.
• Listening can deflate anger and build respect in conversations.
• Failure is a significant part of the artistic journey.
• Theater allows for a shared human experience.

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In this engaging conversation, Chai Valladares and Janet McMordie explore the nuances of being a Canadian actor in the industry, discussing the balance between gratitude and a sense of belonging. They delve into the importance of recognizing one's worth, the joy that Canadian actors bring to productions, and the challenges they face. The discussion also touches on the significance of comfort on set, memorable experiences, and the value of pursuing passions outside of acting, such as Dungeons and Dragons. They conclude with insights on controlling what one can in the industry and life, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and character development.

Takeaways

• The combination of theater and anthropology enriches an actor's understanding of character.
• Appearance can significantly impact the types of roles available to actors.
• The acting industry is surprisingly supportive and collaborative.
• Smaller markets foster a sense of community among actors.
• Canadians often feel grateful to be in the industry, but they should also recognize their worth.
• Building character is essential for personal and professional growth.

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In this conversation, Janet McMordie and Ava Val explore Ava's journey into stand-up comedy, detailing the challenges, learning processes, and the importance of community and mentorship in the industry. The discussion highlights the vulnerability of performing stand-up, the evolution of the comedy landscape, and the surprises encountered over her career. She shares advice for aspiring comedians and emphasizing the need to confront fears to achieve happiness. Ava also expresses her commitment to empowering the trans community through her performances, highlighting the significance of joy and resilience in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• Comedy can unite people and foster harmony.
• The vulnerability of stand-up is a unique challenge.
• Networking is crucial for a successful comedy career.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in personal growth.
• The journey of a comedian is filled with challenges, but perseverance leads to fulfillment.

SO BRAVE Comedy Special

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In this special episode, in collaboration with the Firecrackers podcast, Janet McMordie and Naomi Snieckus explore the evolution of their podcasting journeys and the importance of community in creative fields. They discuss the influence of their parents on their creative pursuits, the challenges of navigating the acting industry, and the invaluable skills gained from improv that enhance their professional lives. The conversation also delves into the birth of the Firecracker Department, a supportive community for artists, and the joy found in pursuing multiple passions. With a focus on supporting new talent and maintaining a sense of fun in their work, they share valuable insights and personal anecdotes that resonate with anyone in the creative field.

Takeaways

• The evolution of podcasting has shifted towards more casual and engaging conversations.
• Community and collaboration are essential in the entertainment industry.
• Improv skills can enhance problem-solving abilities in both medicine and acting.
• The stories we tell are what endure over time.
• Maintaining fun in the creative process is vital.

Firecracker Department Website

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In this conversation, Colin McMurray shares his journey from working in a department store to becoming a successful talent agent. He discusses the importance of spotting talent, the daily responsibilities of an agent, and how actors can empower themselves to succeed in the industry. Colin also addresses the challenges faced by actors, especially those entering the industry later in life, and emphasizes the need for continuous training and commitment to the craft. The conversation highlights the complexities of the acting industry and the vital role agents play in navigating it. Colin concludes with an emphasis on the need for actors to balance their passion for acting with other careers, while also providing valuable insights into navigating the industry effectively.

Takeaways

• Climbing the ladder in the industry requires patience and hard work.
• Spotting talent is a natural skill that agents develop over time.
• Actors often underestimate the behind-the-scenes work of their agents.
• Actors must take charge of their careers and continuously improve their skills.
• Commitment to acting classes is essential for ongoing success.
• Balancing a career outside of acting can alleviate pressure and improve performance.
• Submissions to agencies should be well-researched and personalized.

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