Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to another instalment of Two Unemployed Actors! In this landmark Episode 70, hosts Max and Sam dive deep into the highs and lows of the performing arts lifestyle, covering everything from celebrity Martial Arts connections to the sheer absurdity of finding the perfect stage prop in suburban Sydney.

Sam kicks things off with a wrap report, having recently finished work on a project and immediately transitioning into an art assistant role for a short film titled "Wood Chips." He shares valuable insights into navigating crew roles and finding work through industry-specific Facebook groups, proving that staying busy often means looking beyond the spotlight.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Max reveals his personal history with Wing Chun Kung Fu. After seeing a photo of his former instructor, Grandmaster William Cheung, training Iron Man himself Robert Downey Jr. Max reminisces about learning from the legendary Cheung brothers. It is a fascinating look at how the discipline of Martial Arts often intersects with the focus required for a successful acting career.

The centrepiece of the episode, however, is the wrap of Max’s play, "Lipstick." This queer farce demanded high energy and even higher-stakes prop management. Max shares a hilarious, must-hear story about visiting a King Street sex shop to source a very specific adult prop to attach to a cordless drill. From getting a "best story" discount to the awkward walk home past a group of school children, it’s a classic Actor’s tale of doing whatever it takes for the craft.

Finally, the duo addresses the "post-show blues." They provide practical advice on how to handle the sudden vacuum that follows a big production. From updating your showreel to navigating the tricky world of commercial buyouts and usage contracts, Max and Sam offer the grounded, real-world perspective every actor needs. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow the journey on your favorite platform!

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/i2Uc5

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 69 of the Two Unemployed Actors podcast, Max and Sam reunite in the studio accompanied by the vocal 'Fred the dog' to discuss the beautiful chaos of actually being employed. In this episode, the duo dives into the contrasting worlds of independent feature filmmaking and theatre production, offering a candid look at logistical hurdles Actors face daily.

Sam kicks things off with an update on his current feature film project. Filming in blocks near Newcastle, he shares insights into the reality of indie sets, from the social dynamics of staying in hostels to the critical importance of professional lighting on a limited budget. He emphasizes how lighting can make or break a shot's professional quality before post-production begins. He celebrates the international success of his short film, currently streaming at a prestigious European festival. Beyond acting, Sam discusses the strategic move of building a crew CV to secure survival jobs that keep him on set and connected within the industry.

On the other side of the craft, Max is gearing up for opening night of the comedy farce, Lipstick. As part of a unique festival featuring four different plays, he describes the intense pressure of bumping in and the coordinated efforts required for rapid set changeovers. Max recounts the inevitable friction of technical rehearsals, including missed cues and the specific mechanical challenges of managing a stage moustache that must be removed mid-performance. He explores the psychological balance required for live performance: being disciplined in your preparation so you can ultimately let go and react authentically. With fifty audience members being the current maximum capacity, every laugh and reaction is felt intensely.

From night shoots in party scenes to the adrenaline of a live audience, this episode is testament to the resilience of the working actor. Join Max and Sam for an insightful and grounded discussion on navigating professional highs and occasional backstage meltdowns.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/qzy7Z

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to Episode 68 of Two Unemployed Actors, where Max and Sam dive deep into the chaotic, rewarding, and often exhausting reality of the acting world. In this instalment, Max is firmly in the phase of his latest theatrical endeavour, sharing a hilariously relatable saga of renting a van and scavenging Facebook Marketplace to secure furniture for the stage. From hauling couches to navigating suburban logistics, it’s a masterclass in the versatility required for independent theatre. Max also discusses the physical toll of the craft, revealing his new routine at a local, unpretentious gym and aquatic centre. Between shoulder rehab and preparing for the high-energy demands of his role, he’s doing whatever it takes to stay work fit.

The drama isn't just on the stage, however. Max recounts a tense morning involving a full police cordon and sirens right on his doorstep, reminding us that inner-city life always keeps you on your toes. Meanwhile, Sam provides a fresh update from the set of his current feature film. He explores the unique social chemistry of film sets, the inevitable oversharing that happens among creative extroverts, and the bittersweet feeling as a project nears its end.

The duo also tackles the technical side of the hustle. From the arrival of a new, slightly wrinkled blue screen for self-tapes to the strategic use of LinkedIn for tracking down major casting notices like the upcoming Julia Roberts and George Clooney project, they prove that being proactive is the only way to survive. Max even shares a genuine nerd moment when he successfully connected with legendary voiceover artist Bill DeWees. Finally, they discuss the business of ambition, comparing the drive of professional independent theatre to the standard community model. Whether you’re here for the industry tips or the stories about Fred the dog, this episode perfectly captures the spirit of the acting grind that defines life between projects for everyone.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/8u6Ia

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to Episode 67 of Two Unemployed Actors, where Max and Sam dive into latest wins, hustle, and the absolute madness of the screen industry. The episode kicks off with some fantastic news as Max shares that his play, "Lipstick," is nearly sold out, signalling the return of live theatre in Sydney. But the acting life isn't all stage lights and applause; Max recounts a hilarious "cheating" scandal involving his pet Dachshund, Frederick, after a photoshoot for a dog-walking app required him to work with a few scene-stealing canine co-stars.

Switching gears to the world of film, Sam provides an update from the set of his feature, "Cooked," currently shooting in Newcastle. He explores the rare luxury of living with a character for three months, discussing how an extended production allows an actor to truly embody a role beyond the typical quick-turnaround audition cycle. Between takes, Sam has also officially launched Sam Folden Photography, offering a new resource for Sydney actors in need of professional headshots.

The episode then features a deep dive into the mind-bending documentary Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond. Max and Sam analyse Jim Carrey’s extreme method acting while portraying the legendary Andy Kaufman. From the infamous wrestling matches with Jerry Lawler to the disruptive presence of the alter ego Tony Clifton on the set of Taxi, they explore the blurred lines between performance and reality. They discuss the intelligence required to maintain such a commitment and the challenges it creates for cast and crew alike.

Finally, Max shares a bizarre "only in this industry" moment: receiving a random audition request from an Italian animation company for an Australian detective character. It serves as a perfect reminder that in the world of acting, you truly never know where your next opportunity will come from. Join the guys for another insightful and honest look at the craft.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/oat7i

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Social Media Strategy for Actors

Are you struggling to figure out your social media strategy, or do you even have one? In this solo episode of Two Unemployed Actors, Max Belmonte dives deep into how up-and-coming actors should manage their online presence. It is time to stop treating your profiles like a personal diary and start viewing your acting career as a professional commercial brand.

Max breaks down the common mistakes Actors frequently make, such as blurring personal lives with professional creative pursuits on a single account. He shares practical insights into his own daily routine across Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, explaining how a consistent, thoughtful approach can build genuine career momentum.

The Power of LinkedIn

A major highlight of this episode is the untapped potential of professional LinkedIn. While most creatives completely ignore it, Max leverages his corporate industry background to show why this platform is an absolute goldmine. It is the exact space where Casting Directors, Producers, and studio executives do business. Learn how to tailor your content for this professional crowd and network effectively without being spammy.

Crucial Dos and Don'ts

The episode also covers essential digital hygiene. Casting directors are actively Googling you, and your social media presence can easily make or break an upcoming audition opportunity. Max outlines key red flags to avoid, from cleaning up unprofessional past posts to respecting industry boundaries.

Key Takeaways from the Show:

• Separate Profiles: Establish a dedicated public acting page to build targeted online momentum.
• Think Like a Brand: Filter your content through a professional lens before hitting post.
• Clean Digital Footprint: Ensure there are zero red flags waiting for potential employers.
• Authentic Engagement: Build genuine connections with industry decision-makers instead of bombarding them.

Refine your online strategy and give the industry zero reasons to pass you over. Tune in to level up your digital game!

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

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to another jam-packed episode of Two Unemployed Actors! This week, Sam and Max are back to chat about the beautiful yet chaotic, exciting, and sometimes completely overwhelming reality of navigating the entertainment industry. The boys kick things off with some massive news: Sam’s short film has been officially accepted into an indie festival in Cannes, and Max shares his experience jumping into the recording booth to provide a booming voiceover for Sam’s other project, Misdirection.

From there, the conversation shifts to the massive industry buzz in Australia, including everyone rushing to submit self-tapes for the highly anticipated Heartbreak High reboot on Netflix. Sam details his upcoming US-accent audition for Canva, while Max gives an update on his upcoming comedy farce play, explaining the logistical nightmare of rehearsing blocking and sourcing real wooden stage doors on a budget.

Max also opens up about playing against type in two intensely dark short films, The Taking and Water Under the Bridge, and what it’s like cutting those heavy scenes into a showreel. Plus, he shares valuable insights from his recent guest role on a major mainstream Australian TV series, highlighting the importance of being low-maintenance on a busy set, alongside a hilarious and awkward cautionary tale about an extra making a major continuity mistake.

Later in the show, the guys tackle the mental side of the hustle. They discuss Sam's new headshot photography business as a creative survival job and dive deep into how to manage feeling completely overwhelmed when balancing auditions, side gigs, and life. Finally, they remind listeners to ditch the "aspiring" label and confidently own their identity as actors, before wrapping up with a wild, surreal story about buying a couple bottles of wine for Chris Pratt and Joel Edgerton at a Sydney bar. Make sure to tune in for laughs, honest advice, and unfiltered industry realities!

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

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the first episode of 2021! Max Belmonte and Sam Folden hit the ground running with a massive, action-packed update on their latest creative projects, industry insights, and the usual behind-the-scenes chaos.

Sam kicks things off by sharing his exciting experience filming a low-budget indie feature film up in Newcastle. From intense night shoots running from 7 PM to 2 AM to immediate cast bonding during a massive party scene with forty extras, it is a classic true indie experience. Inspired by the industry buzz, Sam enthusiastically reveals his upcoming plans to launch a brand new headshot photography business, offering affordable location shoots with natural light under "Sam Folden Photography."

Meanwhile, Max has had an equally frantic week. He shares a hilarious story from a recent corporate presenting gig at Carriageworks. Shot on one of Sydney’s hottest days in a non-air-conditioned tin-roof warehouse, Max was so focused on delivering dry corporate policy to an auto-cue that he completely missed a massive onsite disaster, a truck crashing straight through a halfway-open roller door mid-take!

Max also gives an update on his play rehearsals for the comedy farce Lipstick, part of the No Intermission Festival. The rehearsals have temporarily moved to his empty dining room in Newtown, where his dog Fred keeps trying to upstage the cast. To wrap up the good news, Max announces he just booked a 50-worder guest role on a major Australian television drama series, proving that persistence pays off.

Finally, the boys dive into their latest screen recommendations. Sam is hooked on the dystopian sci-fi series The Expanse, while Max praises the French comedy Call My Agent! on Netflix. They also celebrate local cinema, discussing Hollywood producer Bruna Papandrea and her production company, Made Up Stories, which currently dominates the box office with massive homegrown hits like The Dry and Penguin Bloom, wrapping up an incredibly inspiring episode.

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/5UaWm

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Two Unemployed Actors – Episode 63: The Business of Acting & Mental Health with Simon Ward

With Sam busy working away on set, host Max Belmonte invites a very special guest into the studio for Episode 63. Simon Ward joins the podcast to offer a uniquely powerful perspective as both a trained professional psychologist and a passionate working actor. Together, Max and Simon unpack the intricate, challenging, and often hidden intersection of performance well-being and the modern entertainment industry.

The conversation dives straight into the contemporary digital pressures facing creatives today. Simon highlights how modern casting directors scrutinize social media profiles, turning personal platforms into professional casting requirements. Max and Simon discuss tactical strategies to help navigate this digital shift, emphasizing the immense benefits of viewing your online presence as a standard business tool rather than an emotional reflection of your personal self-worth.

Building on Max’s extensive corporate background, the duo explores how adopting a strategic, business-minded approach to your career can act as a shield against debilitating audition anxiety and relentless imposter syndrome. They also dissect the sobering statistical realities of mental health struggles within the Australian creative sector, validating the unique emotional weight that performers absorb daily.

Crucially, this episode serves as an important reminder that you are never alone in this industry. Simon sheds light on the vital structural progress being made by the MEAA Wellness Committee, the Actors’ Well-being Collective, and mental health first aid initiatives designed to protect the whole performer. Whether you are currently navigating a frustrating dry spell, dealing with intense performance nerves, or trying to manage your creative identity online, this insightful episode offers practical advice to help you stay resilient, healthy, and focused on your craft.

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

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors as we kick off a massive year three! Sam has the best possible excuse for missing this episode, he is actually working on set. Holding down the fort solo, Max dives straight into the gritty business realities of the acting world, sharing essential lessons from his busiest year yet. If you have ever felt like an agency or client was trying to take the piss with your rates, this episode is a must-watch masterclass in standing your ground.

Max breaks down a recent, real-world example of the "sports shoot trap." Learn how a simple online casting for a point-of-sale photo shoot quickly slipped into a television commercial campaign, and discover exactly how to protect yourself by negotiating strict usage end dates. We expose why you should never settle for junk hourly rates, why it is vital to know your value, and how to confidently walk away from bad contracts.

We also tackle two massive industry pet peeves. First up: the voiceover industry. Max addresses the common misconception that buying a microphone instantly makes you a voice actor, breaking down the actual workflow, editing time, and project rate realities behind the mic. Second, we look at the hype surrounding casting director workshops. Max shares his honest, perhaps controversial, take on why he prefers traditional craft schools and limits himself to just two targeted short courses a year.

Finally, we look ahead at setting rough goals, expanding your casting toolkit by tackling a British accent, and maintaining your US dialect to maximize global opportunities. Plus, get a sneak peek at next week’s crucial interview with an actor-focused psychologist to discuss mental health and self-care strategies. Subscribe now on your favourite platform and let us help you navigate the beautiful chaos of the screen industry!

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

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to another episode of Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 61, Max and Sam wrap up a massive year by catching up on their busy end-of-year schedules, navigating unexpected set disasters, and diving deep into the technical world of film stunts, auditions, and major industry news.

Max kicks off the show by sharing his struggles with complex play blocking under strict COVID restrictions, forcing him to turn his empty dining room into an imaginary rehearsal space. He also breaks down a high-pressure corporate shoot where a malfunctioning teleprompter forced him to rapidly adapt his memorisation process on the fly and under pressure. Meanwhile, Sam discusses landing casting calls on Facebook, testing out a brand-new camera for his self-tapes, and auditioning for an intense, fast-paced interrogation short film with an incredibly tight callback turnaround.

The boys also react to the viral Tom Cruise Mission: Impossible audio leak, reflecting on the immense financial and logistical pressures of big-budget productions keeping sets safe. This leads into an essential, eye-opening discussion on why every actor should invest in a stunt course. Max and Sam share crucial insights on handling firearms on indie sets, understanding armorers and legal paperwork, and the reality of how stunt coordinators cheat action sequences safely. They wrap up the episode with a look at Hollywood tech, exploring how John Wick uses minimal real rounds in favour of post-production CGI, before laughing about the actor discipline required to not make your own lightsabre sounds during hand-to-hand combat.

Finally, to celebrate their recent major milestone, the boys are giving away limited-edition Two Unemployed Actors stickers! Listen in to find out how to score yours. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Max and Sam, see you all in 2021!

Episode Webpage: https://shorturl.at/55ipw

Support the show

An Add Kulcha Production