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Welcome back to Episode 80 of Two Unemployed Actors! As we step into 2022, Max and Sam reflect on the strange journey of surviving the pandemic while keeping their creative careers alive. In this milestone episode, the guys discuss the reality of being "between projects" during a global crisis and how they pivoted to maintain their momentum.

Max shares his deep dive into screenwriting, revealing his progress on a comedy television series. He breaks down the essential differences between a creative producer and a business producer, offering valuable insights into the industry's inner workings. From the importance of having a solid logline to understanding the path from pilot to production, Max discusses how he used his time to get pitch-ready and navigate the complexities of production companies.

Meanwhile, Sam reveals his new venture into the world of animal portrait photography. He shares the humorous side of being a "middleman" between pets and owners and how finding a rewarding side hustle within the creative industry is a game-changer. The guys also discuss the irony of acting: Sam booking a role in the new documentary series Founder without an audition, and Max’s bittersweet experience of being recognized by the Home and Away team for a new role, only to be deemed "too familiar" after his stint as 'Lifeguard Jack'.

This episode is packed with practical advice for up-and-coming actors, covering everything from managing voiceover rates to leveraging union resources like the equity writing courses. Whether you’re interested in the logistics of role-play corporate shoots or the technical hurdles of self-taping for musicals, there’s something here for every artist. We’re also looking ahead to an incredible lineup of guest interviews with casting directors and industry gurus. Don’t miss this honest, behind the scenes look at the hustle, the "no’s," and the small victories that define the life of a working actor.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/ouufi

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In Episode 79 of Two Unemployed Actors, Max flies solo while Sam is mid-move, navigating the "between projects" reality from a strictly locked-down New South Wales. This episode pulls back the curtain on the oddities of the professional world and the mindset shifts required to level up your career.

The Hardware Mystery

The episode kicks off with a bizarre story involving a major national brand. Despite producing high-quality DIY content for them months prior, Max received a sudden request to pull the videos from his own channel. He dives into the nuances of usage rights and the strange logic of companies that pay for content but don't want the extra "organic" views.

Streamlining the "Acting Toolkit"

Max breaks down his highly efficient home audition rig. By utilizing a consistent setup—Newer lights, a smartphone rig, and a dedicated tripod—he’s reduced his technical setup time to seconds. This efficiency allows him to focus entirely on the performance and hit those "ASAP" deadlines that casting directors love.

The "Fewer, Bigger, Better" Mindset

The core of the episode explores a major career milestone: raising professional rates. Max discusses:

• Overcoming "imposter syndrome" to issue a 600% fee increase for certain voiceover work.
• Shifting from low-budget "Fiverr-style" gigs to high-end, professional productions with dedicated crews.
• Why a professional rate actually gives clients more confidence in your work.

Social Media & Growth

To wrap up, Max shares his latest experiment—hiring an agency to help with organic Instagram growth. He promises to provide an honest, "no-BS" report on whether these services are a legitimate tool for actors or just another way to part performers from their money.

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Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/r0Fw0

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Welcome back to another episode of Two Unemployed Actors, where Max and Sam dive deep into the highs, lows, and hilarious absurdities of the Australian screen industry. This week, Max recounts a whirlwind schedule that saw him jumping from playing a troubled father in a rural short film to recording voiceovers for a wine company. Along the way, he navigates the tricky waters of low budget commercial sets and finds himself fighting the urge to let the Corporate Max persona take over during negotiations. It is a relatable look at the balancing act required when a professional past occasionally crashes into your creative present.

Meanwhile, Sam shares major life updates as he prepares for a big move. The conversation shifts into practical territory as the duo discusses the essential logistics of setting up a permanent home studio. If you have ever struggled with fluctuating natural light during a self tape, you will appreciate the breakdown of Sam’s new DIY self tape wall and his specific recommendations for affordable, adjustable lighting gear that ensures a consistent look regardless of the hour. This segment is a goldmine for any actor looking to level up their home audition setup without breaking the bank.

The episode takes a cinematic turn as the boys review Christopher Nolan’s Tenet. They tackle the infamous sound mixing issues and discuss whether complex storytelling always trumps a well executed, simple plot like Triple Frontier. To wrap things up, Max shares a truly golden piece of client feedback from a recent corporate role play audition. Apparently, he played the villain so convincingly that the clients questioned if he could actually pivot to the apology scene! From navigating Sydney’s shifting lockdown landscape to finding the humour in being too good at playing a jerk, this episode is packed with industry insights, personal stories, and plenty of laughs. Tune in, grab a coffee, and join the conversation.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/4oR6z

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Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 77, Max and Sam dive into the reality of staying "work-fit" in an industry that feels like feast or famine. If you’ve wondered why some Actors seem perpetually busy, this episode reveals the secret: there are no shortcuts. It is about the consistent grind, practicing monologues, and ensuring materials are always ready. Join us as we explore the essential habits that keep your career moving forward, even when projects are thin on the ground.

The Digital Presence and Agent Advice

Max shares a surprising success story about how keeping his LinkedIn profile updated led directly to corporate presenting and voiceover jobs. We discuss digital maintenance, from avoiding common Vimeo sharing mistakes to ensuring your Showreel reflects your current look. Sam also provides a valuable update following a productive meeting with his Agent, touching on the rising standards for self-tapes. In the modern landscape, Casting Directors expect more than just a decent read; they want see you & hear you clearly, and a performance that feels truly lived-in.

Mastering the Self-Tape Grind

To help you meet these standards, we discuss the benefits of a dedicated weekly self-tape day. Max breaks down his own portable, budget-friendly recording rig, proving that you can achieve high-quality results without a massive budget. We also share candid stories about the one that got away, including a tourism shoot that almost saw Max working alongside his ex!

What We’re Watching on the Couch

To wrap things up, we head to the couch for our reviews. Sam breaks down why the Netflix hit Sweet Tooth is a must-watch, despite its similarities to real-world events. Meanwhile, Max catches up on the Cloverfield Paradox and the latest season of the Australian classic Jack Irish. Whether you are here for the industry tips or the TV recommendations, there is something for every actor in this jam-packed episode.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/l5Ini

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Episode 76: Trusting Your Gut and Avoiding "The Muppet Agency"

In this seventy-sixth instalment of Two Unemployed Actors, Sam and Max return with a cautionary tale about the high cost of ignoring your intuition. If there is one recurring theme in the entertainment industry, it is that red flags are usually waving for a reason. Max recounts a recent string of professional disasters that began the moment he decided to ignore the very advice the duo shared in their previous episode. What follows is a hilarious, frustrating, and deeply relatable journey through what Max affectionately labels "The Muppet Agency."

The saga starts with a disorganised casting call that left Max waiting in the freezing rain for fifteen minutes, only to be met with a total lack of professionalism once inside. Things went from bad to worse when he accepted a last-minute presenting gig. Between the production company slashing his agreed fee and demanding he memorise a full page of technical banking script in a mere thirty minutes only to reveal a teleprompter once he was on set it was a true masterclass in on-set dysfunction. The absolute peak of the chaos? A teleprompter operator who decided to snatch Max’s phone right out of his hand while he was waiting between takes.

The guys also discuss the administrative nightmare of chasing payments through professional platforms and the specific art of the "corporate passive-aggressive email." Beyond the industry venting, the episode takes a cinematic turn as Max reviews A Quiet Place Part II, explaining why John Krasinski’s sequel is a rare triumph in horror filmmaking. To wrap things up, Sam and Max discuss the vital importance of digital presence, focusing on Actor websites, SEO, and staying productive during the inevitable "between projects" lulls. Whether you are a veteran performer or just starting out, this episode serves as a vital reminder to trust your gut and always steer clear of the Muppets in this industry.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/1cKQS

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Welcome back to Episode 75 of Two Unemployed Actors! This week, Max and Sam explore the highs and lows of the industry, starting with a surreal victory: Max managed to book two separate professional gigs while simply standing in line for his vaccination. It is absolute proof that the hustle never stops, even when you are waiting for a jab. 

However, the episode takes a serious turn as the guys dissect a disturbing "casting" message Max received via StarNow. From creepy requests for 'hotel room headshots' to blatant red flags, they break down how to spot a predator and why trusting your intuition is an Actor’s most valuable tool. They also give a massive shout-out to the platform’s support team for their lightning-fast response in banning the suspicious user.

The discussion then shifts to the often-ignored business side of Acting. Max recounts a frustrating story regarding a corporate production company that attempted a classic bait-and-switch on his day rate. He explains exactly how he stood his ground to ensure his project fee remained intact, offering a masterclass in professional boundaries and contractual integrity. If you have ever been lowballed or pressured to accept a lower fee after the work is done, this specific conversation is absolutely essential listening for every creative professional.

Sam rounds out the episode with a deep dive into the marketing phase of his latest feature film. Between designing t-shirts and navigating distributor interest, he highlights the relentless creative work required once the cameras stop rolling. To finish, the pair share their best strategies for showreel editing, debating the merits of high-intensity openings versus traditional titles. Whether you are avoiding scams or refining your portfolio, this episode provides the raw, practical insights every working actor needs to thrive in a competitive landscape. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow our journey on social media as we navigate the industry together.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/BXcxN

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Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 74, Max and Sam dive deep into the evolving landscape of the industry, proving that being "between projects" is never actually a quiet time. We kick things off with some surprisingly blunt skincare advice Max received while in the makeup chair, turns out, soap isn't a routine!

The main focus of the week is Max’s recent breakthrough with LinkedIn’s "Creator Mode." We’ve always said actors shouldn't sleep on LinkedIn, and Max explains how shifting his profile toward original content over traditional work history has already landed him new corporate presenting and voiceover work. He also shares a success story from StarNow, where a filmmaker reached out directly to cast him in an upcoming indie feature film. It’s a testament to keeping those professional profiles polished and active.

Sam brings us back to the audition room, sharing his recent experience with an in-person audition for the Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP). In an era dominated by digital submissions, we tackle the big question: do we actually prefer the old-school audition room? Sam breaks down why the physical room feels more like a performance and why the stress of "perfecting" a self-tape might actually be holding actors back.

We also get into the power of creative control. Max updates us on his screenwriting journey, discussing his time with Chris Corbett and the immense value of table reads. We explore why every actor should consider writing their own material, look at Ricky Gervais or Seinfeld! Plus, there is a long-awaited update on the short film "Flood and Fire," a production that has survived bushfires and a global pandemic.

Whether you’re working on your first script or prepping for your next screen test, this episode is packed with insights to keep you work-fit. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on all our social media platforms today.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/rUlWK

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Welcome back to Episode 73 of Two Unemployed Actors! After a brief hiatus, Max Belmonte and Sam Folden return to dive deep into the essential tools every performer needs in their professional arsenal. This week, the conversation begins with the absolute foundation of any performance: the voice. Max shares his quick-fire vocal warm-up techniques for those urgent voiceover sessions and last-minute corporate shoots, while Sam brings his extensive musical theatre expertise to the table. They debunk a common industry myth, explaining why whispering is actually one of the most damaging things you can do to your vocal cords when you're trying to save them.

The episode then shifts to high-level storytelling insights. Max recounts his fascinating experience at the Sydney Writers Festival, where he listened to an unscripted, hour-long discussion between legendary director George Miller and the brilliant Tim Minchin. They discuss the massive scale of the new Mad Max prequel, the current Australian film landscape, and the creative process behind Miller’s cinematic universes. This leads naturally into Max’s recent chat with Writer Chris Corbett. Max breaks down the "18 questions" every writer should ask to pressure-test their script and reveals the surprising, humble hierarchy of writers on an Australian film set compared to those in the US.

On the audition front, Sam provides updates on his pursuit of a role in the Broadway hit Jagged Little Pill and his upcoming play at ATYP. They also discuss the vital importance of supporting the local theatre scene, highlighting recent shows at the Roslyn Packer Theatre and clever ways for younger Actors to find affordable tickets. To top it all off, Max shares an incredible personal moment where 'I Am Mother' Director Grant Sputore personally called him the "hero of the day" on social media. From technical tips to industry anecdotes, this episode is packed with inspiration for actors at every stage of their professional career.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/NpXaV

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Welcome back to Episode 72 of Two Unemployed Actors. This week, Max and Sam dive into the essential hustle of staying productive between projects and how to turn "strong maybes" into career momentum.

Max opens with a significant update regarding his audition for the local Australian play, "Spooks," celebrating a successful callback that puts him back in the theatre atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sam discusses a recent opportunity for a genre feature film concept trailer found via StarNow, which could potentially lead to a lead role. The duo also touches on the recent Oscar sweep by Nomadland, emphasising the importance of staying engaged with world-class cinema.

A major theme this episode is professional development through the MEAA union. Max highlights upcoming sessions with renowned acting coach Miranda Harcourt on the vital concept of "connection and protection" while navigating the emotional safety of entering and exiting demanding roles. They also preview vocal health workshops with Natasha McNamara, emphasising the daily habits required for a sustainable Acting career.

The conversation shifts to the Sydney Writers Festival, where Max is set to attend a high-profile session featuring legendary director George Miller and the brilliant Tim Minchin. With the massive Furiosa prequel production looming in Australia, they discuss the local industry boom and the absolute necessity of mastering an authentic American accent. Sam shares his recent progress with dialect coach Danielle Roffe, underscoring why Actors must be ready for the influx of global productions.

Finally, the hosts explore the art of the interview, drawing inspiration from Andrew Denton’s use of silence, and Max discusses a screenwriting course with Chris Corbett designed specifically for Actors. Whether it is refreshing your showreel or heading into the sound booth for corporate voice-over work, this episode is a blueprint for professional consistency. Join us as we explore what it truly means to be a working actor in the current Australian industry today. Remember to subscribe!

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/DWrwl

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Episode 71: Preparation, Payoff, and the Big Screen Grind

Welcome to Episode 71 of Two Unemployed Actors! This week, Max and Sam explore the dual nature of the industry: the meticulous preparation behind the scenes and the exciting payoff on the big screen. From managing personal branding to hitting the books with dialect coaches, this episode is packed with the practical realities of the acting grind.

Sam kicks things off by sharing his experiences with crew work on "Making It," highlighting how staying busy behind the camera can lead to recurring opportunities. The conversation quickly shifts to the technical side of the craft. Sam discusses his journey toward a flawless U.S. accent, emphasising why working with a professional dialect coach is essential for avoiding bad habits that can derail a high-stakes self-tape.

Max reveals his recent battle with website procrastination, finally launching a streamlined version of his site that balances acting, voiceover work, and podcasting. He also prepares for a comedy audition at Sydney’s New Theatre for the play "Spooks," proving that the lure of the stage is never far away. The guys also celebrate the massive news that the "Mad Max" prequel is set to film in New South Wales with a record-breaking budget.

The second half of the show is a cinematic marathon. Max reviews a diverse slate of films including the spy thrillers "The Courier" and "Six Minutes to Midnight," the action-packed "Nobody," and the poignant "Nomadland." Meanwhile, Sam explores the streaming world, discussing the chemistry between Michael Sheen and David Tennant in "Good Omens" and the surprisingly emotional "Love and Monsters," which features some very recognizable Australian scenery.

Whether you need technical advice for your next self-tape or a new binge-watch recommendation, this episode covers the full spectrum. Join Max and Sam as they navigate the highs and lows of Acting life. 

Make sure to like, subscribe, and share the journey with our growing community of fellow creatives!

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/ue4Xg

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