New and developing actors get bombarded with advice, but much of it can seriously damage your career. In this video, veteran talent agent Anthony Boyer and manager Jess Canty break down some of the worst advice actors hear when starting out: from using amateur headshots and faking IMDb credits to relying on outdated training or saying "yes" to everything.

If you're trying to book real work and build a long-term career in the entertainment industry, you need to know what to avoid. Learn why background jobs, paid query services, and the wrong day job can hold you back, and why networking and strategy matter more than chasing trends or waiting for your "big break."

Watch this before you waste time, money, or momentum.

Want to watch this episode instead? Check out our YouTube Channel.

Headed back into the room? This Fast Lane episode delivers a crash course refresher on how to handle in-person auditions like a pro. From first impressions to last-minute nerves, we're covering everything you need to know to show up prepared and confident.

📌 Perfect for:

Actors returning to in-person auditions New performers navigating the room for the first time Anyone who's ever wondered: "Am I doing this right?"

🚪 Topics covered:

Audition room etiquette: what to do (and what not to do) How to handle running late or unexpected curveballs Entering the room with confidence

This episode is part of our Take Fountain: Fast Lane series—quick, actionable advice for actors who want to level up their craft and career, one focused skill at a time.

Want to give this episode a watch? Check it out in our channel on YouTube

Actors: The industry is shifting fast. Are you keeping up?

Veteran talent manager Jess Canty breaks down what every working actor needs to know in 2025. In this episode of Take Fountain, Jess breaks down the current trends shaping the entertainment industry, and how professional actors can smartly respond to them.

From understanding the lasting impact of self-taping and shifts in casting expectations, to protecting your digital likeness and strategically using social media, Jess shares actionable insights to help you stay competitive in today's evolving Hollywood landscape.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, this video will teach you how to read the trades effectively, spot the trends that matter, and build a long-term career with purpose, clarity, and resilience. Subscribe for weekly guidance on the business of acting and how to thrive in a changing industry.

Want to watch this episode? Check out the Take Fountain Channel on YouTube.

In this episode, talent agent Anthony Boyer and manager Jess Canty dive into essential audition terminology for aspiring actors, focusing on the most important tips and lingo every beginner needs to know.

Learn how to set up your self-tape audition with simple tools like your smartphone and natural lighting, understand key terms, and know the difference between sites like Breakdown Services and Casting Networks.

We also highlight why you should never post your self-tapes publicly, the importance of following instructions, and how to keep your self-tapes organized for future opportunities with agents and managers.

This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the audition process and avoid common mistakes in your early acting career. This is a bite-sized version of our longer episode on audition techniques, part of our Take Fountain: Fast Lane series—made for actors who want fast, focused insights on the business of acting.

#SelfTapeTips #ActorLife #AuditionAdvice #SelfTapingForActors #ActingCareer #CastingTips #TakeFountain #FastLane

If you're a professional actor just starting out, this episode of Take Fountain is a must-watch. Talent agent Anthony Boyer shares Six Books Actors Overlook—game-changing reads that go beyond acting technique to help you master the business side of your career.

From networking and discipline to mindset and resilience, these books offer practical tools to build lasting industry relationships, stay focused, and treat your acting like the small business it is.

Whether you're navigating auditions, building your brand, or pushing through rejection, these titles will give you a competitive edge in Hollywood and beyond.

Want to watch this episode? Check it out at our Take Fountain YouTube Channel

This is a question that's come up for almost everyone at some point in their career, especially as the lines between agents and managers get more and more blurred. We're here to break it down for you.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a solid understanding of the key differences between agents and managers, and how each of us plays a unique part in your career. In this video, talent agent Anthony Boyer and talent manager Jess Canty break down the key differences between a talent agent and a talent manager, offering essential insights for aspiring actors and those looking to break into the entertainment industry.

If you're early in your career and unsure about who does what, this video will clarify the roles of agents and managers, from securing auditions to managing long-term career strategy. Learn how these two professionals collaborate to build a successful career for actors, and discover how to create the best team for your journey in the industry.

Want to watch this episode - find it on the Take Fountain YouTube Channel

Tired of working hard and going nowhere? Trying to sign with an agent or a manager to help move your acting career forward? Look no further! In this video, a Hollywood talent agent breaks down what he looks for when he's looking to sign talent.

0:00 Intro

0:43 Professionalism

1:35 Talent

2:31 Marketability

4:36 Work Ethic

5:30 Business Savvy

6:57 Outro

Do you really need an acting website?

In this episode of Take Fountain, veteran talent agent Anthony Boyer breaks down whether new actors should invest in a personal website. If you're just starting your acting career and wondering if a website is worth the cost, effort, or maintenance, this video is for you.

Learn how an actor website can help with marketing, online visibility, and showcasing your unique skill set—especially if you're a musical theatre performer, voice actor, or multi-hyphenate artist.

Discover what to include on your site, when to build one, and why it might be the next smart step in your professional acting journey.

Want to know how to network effectively as an actor?

In this episode of Take Fountain, veteran talent agent Anthony Boyer shares powerful, practical strategies for building authentic, long-term relationships in the entertainment industry.

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, this video will teach you how to create a professional acting resume and how to network like a working actor — without the sleaze. Learn how to expand your connections, stay top-of-mind with casting directors and creatives, and approach networking with sincerity, service, and confidence.

Perfect for actors at every stage of their career who want to grow their network, book more work, and show up like a pro.

Resource: Never Eat Alone, by Keith Ferrazzi and Tahl Raz

Confused about booking terms and industry jargon?

In this episode of Take Fountain, veteran talent agent Anthony Boyer and Los Angeles talent manager Jess Canty break down the key terms actors need to understand when they land a role.

From offer negotiations to credit placement, dressing rooms, and the difference between co-stars, guest stars, and recurring roles, this video covers everything beginner actors should know about booking a job in television, theatre, and beyond.

Plus, learn why all offers are negotiable and how to avoid common mistakes that could cost you.

Listen now for expert insights!

Want to watch this episiode? Find it in our YouTube Take Fountain Channel.

0:00 Intro

2:53 What to expect in an offer

8:11 Television deals

30:18 Film deals

36:50 Theatre deals

42:27 If you're approached directly

51:51 What happens next

53:31 Outro