That One Audition with Alyshia Ochse

This episode, we're following the wildly talented Courtney Taylor down her own self-made "yellow brick road." From her early days in Philly to a practical pivot to criminal justice and sociology in Delaware, acting wasn't always on Courtney's radar. But thanks to her movie-loving dad and a growing passion for performance, she eventually found her way to an agent—and a Marvel audition that changed how she approached her career. In this episode, Courtney shares how she carved her own path in the industry, from booking a co-star on Insecure by ad-libbing her way into a fully realized character, to landing a direct offer from Quinta Brunson via DMs for Abbott Elementary. We dive into her scene-stealing comedy work on Shrinking, her bold shift into drama on Ballard, and how she embraces stillness, research, and intuition in her performances.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Courtney Taylor right here.

CREDITS:

• Ballard
• Abbott Elementary
• Shrinking
• Insecure
• Neon
• Killing It
• Send Help
• Single & Anxious
• The Company You Keep
• The Invitation

• IMDB: Courtney Taylor, Actress, Director, Writer

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th
• MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today we dive into the remarkable journey of a crossover star Mariana Treviño, whose path defies convention and proves that an actor's career is as personal as it is unpredictable. Mariana shares how her love for the craft—not money or fame—drew her in, from early days in New York to an organic rise to stardom back in Mexico. A breakthrough role in musical theater shifted her mindset from acting for fun to acting for a living. In this episode, she reflects on embracing mistakes in auditions, how "work begets work," and navigating global representation after A Man Called Otto. Mariana also shares insights from working with icons like Tom Hanks and Owen Wilson, creating intimacy on set, and the challenges of performing in a second language.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Mariana Treviño right here.

CREDITS:

• Stick
• A Man Called Otto
• Narcos: Mexico
• Mentrias, The Series
• Overboard

• IMDB: Mariana Treviño, Actress

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today, we're thrilled to welcome back a truly special guest—one of only three returning guests in our show's history—the incredible actor Alain Uy. Since his last appearance in January 2021, Alain's career has soared, with standout roles in The Cleaning Lady, Power IV, and most recently Ballard.

But here's the twist: despite this impressive success, Alain candidly admits to quitting acting multiple times a year—sometimes even right before a premiere. Alain offers invaluable insight into his creative process. He shares his technical self-tape approach—including the unexpected power of the cold read—and how embracing imperfection can create audition magic. You'll learn his simple but transformative framework for breaking down any scene as an argument, negotiation, or seduction.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Alain Uy right here.

CREDITS:

• Ballard
• Station 19
• True Detective
• Grey's Anatomy
• The Morning Show
• Power Book IV: Force
• The Cleaning Lady
• The Paper Tigers
• Helstrom
• Grimm
• Pure Genius
• The Last Ship
• Rizzoli & Isles

• IMDB: Alain Uy, Actor, Producer, Director

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today, we're joined by the incredibly talented Jessica Rothe, best known for her breakout role in Happy Death Day and its sequel, her scene-stealing turn in La La Land, and her lead in the musical remake Valley Girl. In this episode, Jessica shares the raw, real stories from her journey—like being told early on to "go home, curl your hair, put on makeup, and come back" for a CW medical show audition—and how moments like that shaped her understanding of what it means to present a "film version" of yourself. She opens up about the transition from stage to screen, the steep learning curve of self-tapes, and how she refined her naturally expressive style for the subtleties of the camera. With wisdom on navigating nerves, building relationships in the room, and playing the long game in an often-political industry, this conversation is packed with honesty, humor, and heart.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Jessica Rothe right here.

CREDITS:

• La La Land
• Happy Death Day
• Titan
• Virgin River
• Pulse
• Boy Kills World
• Mary + Jane
• All My Life
• Valley Girl
• Chicago P.D.
• High Maintenance
• Gossip Girl

• IMDB: Jessica Rothe, Actress, Producer

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Longing vs. Curiosity — The Energy Behind Your Auditions

In this solo episode, Alyshia explores a subtle but powerful shift that can transform your acting career: moving from longing to curiosity.

If you've ever found yourself stuck in the "why hasn't it happened yet?" spiral, this episode will give you a fresh perspective. Longing keeps you waiting. Curiosity gets you creating.

You'll learn:

1. The emotional difference between longing and curiosity

2. How curiosity fuels creativity, magnetism, and momentum

3. Why outcome-focused taping holds you back

4. A mindset shift to reclaim creative power — today

Plus, Alyshia shares how The Practice Track is designed to get you out of perfectionism and back into creative play — through sides, feedback, and a supportive community that will reignite your love for the process.

🎧 Listen now and ask yourself: Are you longing… or are you curious?

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

In today's episode, Embeth shares the extraordinary journey that shaped her voice as a storyteller—from her upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa to her unexpected entry into acting through a university drama program. She reflects on being discovered in a play by a William Morris agent, catching Spielberg's attention through a TV movie, and ultimately choosing to pause her career to raise a family. That pause led to a creative reawakening and a nine-year quest to adapt a memoir into her directorial debut, Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight. Embeth offers heartfelt, hard-earned wisdom on the power of saying "yes," surprising yourself in auditions, and writing what you know.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Embeth Davidtz right here.

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today's episode with Benjamin Charles Watson kicks off with the fascinating cultural shock of auditioning in Canada versus the bustling scene in Los Angeles. Watson opens up about his anxiety during in-person auditions and how embracing self-tapes became his secret weapon for success, including booking major roles like Duster, Designated Survivor, and The Killing. Watson breaks down his audition for Duster, a role he knew was 'for him' viscerally from the first read, despite receiving dummy sides. Discover his unique, methodical approach to character preparation—taking 'Royce' for walks in real life and building a character from birth to present. Plus, we uncover the audacious, career-making move he made to secure 'The LA Complex,' bypassing conventional channels to ensure his talent was seen.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Benjamin Charles Watson right here.

CREDITS:

• Duster
• Snowpiercer
• Designated Survivor
• The Good Doctor
• The Killing
• I am Syd Stone
• Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia
• Travelers

• IMDB: Benjamin Charles Watson, Actor

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today's episode features an insightful and inspiring conversation with actor Nathan Mitchell, whose compelling performances in hit shows like The Boys and Ginny & Georgia have earned him a devoted following. Mitchell opens up about the craft behind the characters, sharing how techniques like Meisner and deep script analysis help him bring authenticity to each role. From managing the demands of juggling two major series to navigating the emotional toll of rejection and the business realities of set life, Mitchell offers a masterclass in both the artistry and hustle of acting.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Nathan Mitchell right here.

CREDITS:

• The Boys
• Ginny & Georgia
• Supernatural
• Scorched Earth
• iZombie
• Arrow
• Timeless
• Covert Affairs
• Psych: The Movie

• IMDB: Nathan Mitchell, Actor

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• MAGIC MIND: 48% off ONEAUDITION20
• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

In today's episode, Hollywood legend Ed Begley Jr. shares the unforgettable audition that changed his career trajectory. Originally reading for a minor role on the groundbreaking series St. Elsewhere, Ed didn't land the part he auditioned for—but his performance made such an impression on the writers that they created the role of Dr. Peter White, making him a series regular. It's a testament to the unpredictable magic of auditions and the importance of showing up fully, no matter the size of the part.

With over 270 TV credits, 7 Emmy nominations, and a Golden Globe nod, Ed has become a fixture of film and television. He reflects on longevity, craft, and the timeless advice of his mentor Roy London, reminding actors to explore how their characters process pain—whether in comedy or drama.

🎬 DON'T MISS ED ON THE BIG SCREEN

• 🎟️ Premiere of "Don't Tell Larry"
• 📍 June 20 | 7:30 PM | Lemley Town Center 5 | Encino
• 🎟️ Second LA Screening
• 📍 June 21 | 5:00 PM | Lemley Royal | West LA
• 🎥 Also streaming on Amazon & Apple, and playing in select theaters in Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, and Seattle.
• 📲 Follow @ed_begley_jr for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

This episode is a masterclass in persistence, humility, and staying open to the curveballs that just might launch a legendary career.

💪 Subscribe now for insightful discussions, empowering interviews, and practical advice to enhance your career longevity and satisfaction.

🔗 Connect with That One Audition:

• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• APPLE PODCASTS: Subscribe to That One Audition on Apple Podcasts
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🌈 Subscribe today and be part of a community that celebrates resilience and passion in the world of acting! 🎙️ #ActorsResilience #RecoveryMindset #ThatOneAudition #PodcastJourney

CREDITS:

• Host/Producer: Alyshia Ochse
• WRITER: Alyshia Ochse
• WE BSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• SOCIAL: Alara Cerikcioglu

Today, we're incredibly excited to chat with rising star Aparna Brielle, whose career took flight just as the acting industry underwent one of its biggest transformations: the self-tape revolution. From her early move to Los Angeles from Oregon to her breakout role as Sarika on NBC's A.P. Bio, Aparna has built a dynamic and diverse career—navigating everything from offbeat comedy to high-octane spy thrillers. Aparna shares how she based her A.P. Bio character on Reese Witherspoon in Election and how her wardrobe helped win her the role.

We also reverse-engineer her journey from those first uncertain steps in Hollywood to her current role as Tina in Netflix's FUBAR, where she stars alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in a globe-trotting, adrenaline-filled CIA comedy-drama. With credits spanning Boo, Bitch, The Dead Girls Detective Agency, and Mech Cadets, Aparna shares insights on what it means to adapt, evolve, and stay sharp in a rapidly changing industry.

These are the unforgettable stories that landed Aparna Brielle right here.

For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition

• THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR
• THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly
• PATREON: @thatoneaudition
• CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse
• COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role
• INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse
• INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition
• WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com
• ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes
• SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify
• STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher

• WRITER: Erin McCluskey
• WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings
• ASSISTANT: Elle Powell
• SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri