In this episode, award-winning Afro-Latina actress and filmmaker Loren Escandón shares her inspiring journey from Cali, Colombia, to Hollywood. Growing up surrounded by cartel violence, Loren’s mother enrolled her in ballet to keep her safe, which sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling. She shares how her early training in ballet, tango, and jazz eventually led her to theater and television, as well as the challenges of navigating cultural shifts and learning to embrace her accent. Loren has appeared in hit series including Gentefied, 9-1-1, S.W.A.T., Selena: The Series, Truth Be Told, and Freevee’s Casa Grande. She is best known for her breakout role as Marisol in Netflix’s Purple Hearts. Beyond acting, Loren is an accomplished director and writer. Her debut, Phone Tales, premiered at multiple festivals, and her latest short, Los Patines, has won numerous awards including Best Short at the San Pedro International Film Festival and Best Latino Short and Director at the NYC Downtown Short Film Festival. Throughout the conversation, Loren emphasizes resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of representation in storytelling. She offers insights into her creative process, her experiences navigating multiple cities and cultures, and her vision for what’s coming next.

00:00 Introduction and Early Life 

00:25 Discovering Ballet and Storytelling 

01:32 Transition to Acting and Moving to the US 

02:27 Navigating the Acting Industry 

03:48 First TV Role and Learning the Ropes 

05:49 Settling in LA and Finding Representation 

11:24 Audition Challenges and Self-Acceptance 

16:59 The Importance of Training and Comedy 

25:17 Wardrobe and Character Embodiment 

26:50 Collaborative Costume Design 

27:22 Realism in Acting 

28:57 Transition to Directing 

31:57 Creating Los Patina 

34:50 Challenges and Triumphs 

39:34 Future Projects and Aspirations 

46:44 Reflections and Inspirations 

49:46 Inside the Actor's Studio Questions

EPISODE LINKS:

· Loren’s IMDb

· Follow Loren on IG @lorenescandon

Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠

Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠

⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠

Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

A.J. Castro was born in Costa Rica and raised in Miami, where he quickly found his love of acting. He sits down with host Colleen Foy to talk about his journey in the industry and finding his place as a Latino in Hollywood. From studying at CSULA to booking Will & Grace and 9-1-1, A.J.’s journey has now led him to becoming a coach at SKS. He shares his early career struggles, his entry into Hollywood through perseverance and community support, living a lifelong career with shifting goals over time, finding writing, and how being a father has shaped his stories. A.J. also shares insights about adapting to the industry’s demands, and how he found Stan Kirsch Studios right when he needed it. You’ll learn the importance of having a process, finding joy in the creative journey, and giving yourself grace in your creative process. 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:09 AJ's Journey to the Studio 

01:22 Moving to LA: The Early Years 

02:34 Finding Footing in LA 

02:49 Acting Beginnings in Miami

 06:25 Challenges and Growth in Acting 

07:50 The Importance of Goals and Consistency 

14:48 Navigating the Acting Industry 

30:00 Booking 911 & The Payoff of Consistency

 30:56 Overcoming Intimidation and Self-Doubt 

33:19 The Importance of Casting and Perseverance 

35:06 Branding and Marketing as an Actor 

36:54 Discovering and Embracing Your Type 

43:15 Writing as a Creative Outlet

46:54 Balancing Acting and Writing

52:51 Inside the Actor's Studio Questions 

57:12 Final Thoughts and Aspirations

EPISODE LINKS:

· AJ Castro’s IMDb

· Follow AJ on IG @realajcastro 

· AJ’s Links

· Learn More about AJ’s Classes at SKS

Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠

Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠

⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠

Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

Allen Rowe (FBI Most Wanted, The Last Ship, Hawaii Five-0, ) has been a long time student of Stan Kirsch Studios. In this episode, he joins his mentor Colleen Foy to look back on his unique journey as an actor. Allen shares his early struggles, including flying between San Francisco and Los Angeles for auditions and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Born in Taipei, Taiwan and being of Chinese descent meant that Allen had to deal with a lack of roles that he saw himself in early on. It was because of his community and classes at studios like SKS that kept him going and allowed him to craft his iconic, memorable auditions that led to roles on shows like 'Monk' and 'CSI Cyber.' Allen also discusses his experience working in Asia as a series regular on Tou Du (Wei Xian lu Cheng) and what he’s hoping for in the future. If you’ve been looking for motivation to keep going and remain resilient, this is the episode for you.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Allen

00:24 Early Acting Struggles and Auditions 

01:15 Breakthrough and Career Milestones 

02:04 Challenges and Learning in Acting Classes 

06:04 Memorable Audition Stories 

07:29 Dealing with Rejection and Staying Active 

10:58 Script Analysis and Preparation Techniques 

20:17 On-Set Experiences and Networking

24:09 Reflecting on Early Career Experiences 

24:25 Navigating the One-Hour Drama Auditions 

25:43 Transitioning to Acting in Asia 

27:36 Challenges and Successes in China

28:37 Returning to the US and Building Connections 

31:06 Aspirations for a Series Regular Role 

33:41 Exploring Different Genres and Roles 

34:25 Portraying My Grandfather 

36:40 Representation and Diversity in Acting 

41:30 The Art of Self-Taping

 43:44 Inside the Actor's Studio Questions

EPISODE LINKS:

· Allen’s IMDb

· Follow Allen on IG @theosky8

Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠

Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠

⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠

Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

Audrey Helps Actors meets the Working Actor Podcast. This week actress Audrey Moore takes a look back on her career, how she navigates acting as a lifestyle, and the magical thinking to burnout loop that every actor faces. As she and host Colleen Foy  dive into the intricacies of Audrey's career and her experiences in the acting industry, they discuss what it was like to being Emmy-nominated to the daily realities and challenges actors face. Audrey shares valuable insights into the audition process, leveraging relationships in the industry, and managing the highs and lows of the profession. You will leave this episode knowing the importance of sustaining your  passion, dealing with rejection, and navigating the fine line between fantasy and reality throughout your entire career. 

00:00 — Introduction and Welcoming Audrey 

00:45 — Audrey's Emmy Experience 

04:54 — Audition Stories and Acting Insights 

11:38 — The Reality of Acting Careers 

17:54 — Magical Thinking to Burnout 

26:35 — The “Fantasy of the Dress” Metaphor

27:10 — The Reality Check 

27:35 — Emotional Experiences and Self-Worth 

28:47 — Magical Thinking in Careers 

29:57 — Live Tweeting and Fan Connection 

30:53 — Navigating Industry Expectations 

35:03 — The Green Light Game 

39:58 — Career Levels and Networking 

43:40 — Balancing Information and Burnout 

44:20 — Maintaining Relationships with Reps 

50:47 — Final Thoughts and Gratitude

EPISODE LINKS:

· Listen to the Audrey Helps Actors Podcast

· Audrey Moore’s IMDb

· Follow Audrey on IG @audreyscoresmoore

· Follow the Audrey Helps Actors IG @audreyhelpsactorspodcast

· The Audrey Helps Actors Website

Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠

Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? ⁠Visit Our Website Here.⁠

⁠Catch up on the podcast here.⁠

Follow SKS on IG ⁠@stankirschstudios ⁠

In this episode, host Colleen Foy interviews television director April Winney, discussing her career trajectory from theater to becoming a sought-after director known for her rapport with actors. They delve into April's isolated upbringing in the Sequoia National Forest, her shift from acting to directing in college, and her pivotal years in Chicago's theater scene. April shares her journey into film and TV, working as a script supervisor for 15 years, and eventually directing for shows like 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D' and ‘Tracker’. They also explore her experiences in casting, the importance of authenticity in auditions, and navigating the challenges of directing. April's passion for mentoring actors and teaching them how to excel as guest stars on TV sets highlights her commitment to the craft and her supportive nature.  

00:00 — Introduction and Celebrity Doppelgangers 

01:10 — Growing Up in Sequoia National Forest 

03:27 — Journey to Becoming a Director 

04:18 — From Theater to Film and TV 

05:01 — Learning on the Job: Script Supervisor to Director 

09:24 — Breaking into TV Directing 

10:34 — Directing on Different Shows 

10:49 — The ABC Disney Program and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 

13:16 — Directing on Tracker and Location Scouting 

19:02 — Teaching Guest Stars: Workshops and Classes 

25:55 — Technical Tips for Actors 

26:44 — Respect and Challenges for Actors 

27:31 — Casting Decisions and Positivity 

29:23 — The Casting Process 

31:43 — What Directors Look for in Self-Tapes 

34:12 — The Importance of Slates 

42:52 — Balancing Emotions in Performances 

46:46 — Maintaining Well-being During Shoots

48:14 — Navigating Industry Changes 

49:57 — Final Thoughts and Upcoming Classes

EPISODE LINKS:

· Aprill Winney IMDb

· Follow Aprill on IG @aprillwinney

· Acting with the Director with Aprill Winney

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Host Colleen Foy speaks with her talent manager Paulo Andres about his 23-year career in the industry. They delve into Paulo's journey from aspiring actor to successful manager, highlighting the transition and his dedication to his clients. Paulo shares why he signed Colleen, what stands out in submissions, how to find joy in the industry, and why he believes all actors need to pursue their career full-time. From personal anecdotes from his time as an actor to discussing how he approaches manages his clients, Paulo shares how he has adapted to the changes in the business over the years and the importance of perseverance. This episode is a valuable resource for everyone who is looking for a rep, and for all those looking for the motivation to keep going.  

00:00 — Introduction and Background

00:26 — Early Career Struggles 

01:36 — Finding the Right Manager 

02:29 — Building a Career in Acting 

03:00 — The Importance of Hard Work and Persistence 

04:26 — Navigating the Industry 

05:55 — The Role of a Manager 

08:09 — Personalized Client Management 

10:35 — Challenges and Insights 

23:53 — Pitching and Networking 

25:48 — Crafting Effective Pitches 

26:18 — The Role of a Manager 

26:44 — The Importance of Submissions 

27:41 — Challenges in the Industry 

29:47 — Self-Tapes and Auditions 

38:51 — Adapting to Industry Changes 

42:24 — Maintaining Creativity and Community 

45:36 — The Blank Theater Involvement 

49:45 — Navigating Representation Challenges 

56:17 — The Personal Side of Management

EPISODE LINKS:

· Follow Paulo on Instagram @thepaoloandres

· Paulo’s IMDb Pro

· The Blank Theater

· Follow The Blank Theater on Instagram @theblanktheater

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Rigging the System in Your Favor: An Actor's Journey with DaJuan Johnson

Host Colleen Foy and guest DaJuan Johnson reconnect on this episode, taking us through DeJuan’s journey as an actor in Los Angeles. Together, they reflect on his 15-year career from his humble beginnings in theater to notable TV roles on Bosch, Grey’s Anatomy, and NCIS. DaJuan gets candid about his struggles in the industry and gives advice on how to navigate the ups and downs of being an actor by rigging the system in your favor, the importance of mindset, and strategies for lifelong success. From his Emmy campaign to making an impression with cookies, this conversation will leave you encouraged in getting to exactly where you want to be in your career. 

00:00 — Introduction and Welcoming DaJuan Johnson

00:11 — Reflecting on 15 Years of Friendship

00:17 — DaJuan’s Journey to Los Angeles

00:36 — Early Struggles and Realizations

01:38 — Finding Seriousness in Acting

03:02 — Meeting and Learning from Stan

04:37 — Booking the First Role

08:59 — The Impact of Bosch on DaJuan’s Career

16:31 — The Importance of Mindset and Coaching

19:17 — Navigating the Modern Acting Industry

27:40 — Embracing Uncertainty and Self-Care

28:13 — The Reality of Talent and Persistence

29:21 — Mindset and Personal Growth

29:54 — Navigating the Acting Industry

31:18 — Rigging the System in Your Favor

32:42 — The Emmy Campaign Journey

33:58 — The Importance of Visibility

42:52 — Auditioning and Building Relationships

45:16 — Holding the Vision, Not the Circumstance

50:05 — Validation and Self-Worth

54:53 — Final Reflections and Advice

EPISODE LINKS:

· Follow DaJuan on IG @dajuanjohnson

· DaJuan’s IMDb

· DaJuan’s Website

· Listen to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast

· Think Bigger Coaching

· DaJuan’s Resources

· Dajuan’s YouTube

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Actress, producer, and overall superstar Britney Young shares her journey from Tokyo to America, graduating from USC's School of Cinematic Arts, and establishing herself in Hollywood. Britney candidly discusses her behind-the-scenes roles on TV shows like 'The Mentalist' and 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,' and her big break as Carmen Wade on Netflix's ‘GLOW.' She highlights the importance of community, learning the industry, and not  sweating the small stuff. Host and Britney’s coach here at SKS, Brock Ciarlelli, delves into Brittany's transition from production to acting, her experiences working on GLOW,' and her mindset through career ups and downs. They also explore her return to acting classes at Stan Kirsch Studios to refine her skills, the supportive network it provided, and what her life has been life after wrapping a series regular role. You will walk away with a sense of how persistence, authenticity, and genuine connections are crucial in navigating the acting industry.

00:00 — Introduction to Brittany Young

00:28 — Early Career and Transition to Acting

02:28 — Behind the Scenes Experience

10:40 — The Glow Audition Story

18:05 — Life After Glow

23:04 — Joining SKS Studio

26:32 — Booking and Specificity

26:39 — Comedy Week and Typos

27:58 — Day-to-Day Life of an Actor

28:49 — Navigating the Industry

33:32 — Audition Process and Challenges

36:31 — Preparation and Mindset

43:04 — Rejection and Authenticity

44:12— Rapid-Fire Questions

47:33 — Instagram Stories

EPISODE LINKS:

· Follow Britney on IG @britneyyoung

· Listen to Britney and her sister talk movies on the Movie Night Podcast

· Britney’s IMDb

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

You may know Brock Ciarlelli from his work on iconic projects like ABC’s The Middle,  Universal Pictures’ BROS, Netflix’s Glamorous, and Hulu’s Dr. Odyssey or from working with him in class. Whether he’s mentoring, acting, writing, or producing, Brock has had quite the journey in Hollywood. In this episode, host Colleen Foy gets into all of the twists and turns in Brock’s journey. They delve into what it was like for Brock to grow  up in Colorado and then to book his recurring role on ABC's 'The Middle' while still in high school. They discuss his academic background in mathematics, his industry internships, and his multi-faceted career. The conversation highlights the non-linear path of the acting industry, the importance of perseverance, and the lessons they've both learned along the way. Brock and Colleen also touch on the significance of proactivity, maintaining an your abundance mindset amidst the industry's highs and lows, and the value of genuine connections and humility on set. 

00:00 — Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:49 — Brock's Early Life and Career Beginnings

02:38 — Landing the Role on 'The Middle'

08:03 — Navigating the Acting Industry

18:12 — The Journey of 'Susu in the City'

20:49 — Managing Emotions in the Industry

26:10 — Diversifying in the Entertainment Industry

28:57 — Learning from Industry Insights

30:31 — Balancing Boldness in Auditions

30:50 — Research and Preparation

35:11 — Navigating Set Dynamics

39:47 — Proactivity and Self-Reflection

40:45 — Personal Insights and Reflections

43:14 — Favorite Words and Pet Peeves

45:43 — Creative Turn-Ons and Turn-Offs

50:03 — Dream Jobs and Least Favorite Jobs

52:09 — Final Thoughts and Gratitude

EPISODE LINKS:

· Brock’s IMDb

· Follow Brock on IG @brockciarlelli

· Listen to Brock’s podcast “Middling with Eden and Brock”

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios 

Unlocking Social Media Success for Actors with Heidi Dean

In this episode, we sit down with Heidi Dean, a social media strategist for actors and the author of 'Social Media for Actors: 100 Essential Tips to Grow, Thrive, and Survive Online.' Heidi shares her journey from a 20-year acting career to becoming the go-to expert for actors navigating social media. She offers invaluable insights on leveraging social media for career growth, including the importance of building relationships, defining your story, and finding the right platform. This episode is packed with practical tips and strategies tailored for actors who want to use social media effectively without being overwhelmed! If you’ve been feeling resistance in starting a social media, you will walk away from this episode with tangible tips on presenting yourself the way you want to be seen online in a posting schedule that is sustainable for you!

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR:

00:00 Introduction to Heidi Dean

00:46 Heidi's Journey from Actor to Social Media Strategist

03:40 The Importance of Social Media for Actors

05:46 Building Relationships Through Social Media

08:35 Finding Your Unique Social Media Voice

14:02 Choosing the Right Social Media Platform

19:33 Consistency and Content Planning

20:08 The Myth of Consistency in Social Media

21:09 Finding Your Posting Rhythm

22:37 Experimenting with Posting Frequency

23:20 Balancing Social Media and Life

25:39 The Importance of Branding and Design

28:24 Common Social Media Mistakes Actors Make

29:30 Building Genuine Connections Online

32:11 The Value of Followers and Engagement

37:06 Resources for Actors on Social Media

38:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

EPISODE LINKS:

· Read “Social Media for Actors: 100 Essential Tips to Grow, Thrive and Survive Online” by Heidi Dean

· Follow Heidi on IG @marketingforactors

· Heidi’s Links

· 30 Days of Post Ideas

· Marketing 4 Actors

· Mojo App

· Canva

Host: Colleen Foy

Producer: Kristyn Daniel

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

________________

Want to learn more about Stan Kirsch Studios? Visit Our Website Here.

Catch up on the podcast here.

Follow SKS on IG @stankirschstudios