In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down with a recurring guest and working actor to talk honestly about momentum, flexibility, and why working actors often say yes to projects others would turn down.
They break down real career scenarios, including:
Taking local, lower-budget work even after major credits
Why being on set beats waiting for the “perfect” job
The mental and emotional toll of dry spells
How momentum impacts confidence, auditions, and relationships with reps
When turning down work is empowering — and when it isn’t
Why every acting job is a separate hire, not a linear ladder
The conversation reframes what “moving forward” actually looks like in an acting career and why rigid standards can quietly stop actors from working.
👇 Comment below:
Where are you flexible right now — rate, travel, or role size?
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In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down with his mom for a deeply personal conversation about his early acting journey, his first booking, confidence, credit, resilience, and why actors can’t rely on acting alone.They talk about:Jesse’s very first booking after almost giving upHow his mom pushed him into an audition she didn’t want to doWhy confidence, credit, and support systems matter for actorsThe danger of going “all-in” with no balanceWhy actors need other passions, skills, and income streams to survive long-termThis episode is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough — longevity comes from mindset, support, and adaptability.👉 Comment below: What's a lesson your mom taught you that shaped your life?📩 Join the Get Scene newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Check out our in person Actor's Summit: https://www.getscenestudios.com/southeast-actor-summit
In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, host Jesse Malinowski sits down with Michael Sokol — actor, writer, producer, and filmmaker — to talk honestly about what it really means to build a sustainable career in today’s film and TV industry.Michael shares his journey from acting into writing and producing, why becoming a hyphenate matters more than ever, and how creating your own work can deepen your acting craft instead of distracting from it. They break down the realities of auditions, rejection, casting rooms, self-tapes, and why treating acting like a business is no longer optional.This conversation dives into:Why actors should learn writing, producing, and editingHow creating content improves your acting skillsWhat casting rooms actually care aboutWhy not every project needs to be a “magnum opus”How indie filmmakers should think about audience, purpose, and distributionWhy rejection isn’t personal — and how to reframe itIf you’re an actor feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure where your next opportunity is coming from, this episode offers grounded, practical perspective from someone who’s lived on both sides of the industry.🎧 Subscribe for weekly conversations with casting directors, agents, filmmakers, and working actors.📩 Join our newsletter for actor resources, podcast drops, and upcoming workshops:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958
If you’ve ever thought, “It probably won’t matter anyway” — this episode is for you.In this episode of That Actor Couple, Jesse and Candace Malinowski break down a real, recent audition experience and the mindset shift that every actor needs: give yourself the shot to win.This conversation also covers:Deciding before you audition if a job is worth itWorking local and understanding worst-case scenariosWhy productions don’t “owe” actors anythingHow following directions protects casting directorsLive auditions vs self-tapes and controlling what you canWhy stacking income and stability matters for actorsIf you want fewer regrets, fewer “what ifs,” and more confidence in your submissions — this is a must-watch.👇 Comment below:What’s the hardest audition direction you’ve ever had to figure out?📩 Join our newsletter for actors (podcasts, workshops, and industry insight):https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958🎟 Get your tickets for the Southeast Actors Summit! https://www.getscenestudios.com/southeast-actor-summit
In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski breaks down the big industry news everyone is talking about: Disney’s partnership with OpenAI and the release of Sora — and what it actually means for actors.Instead of feeding fear, Jesse offers a grounded, long-term perspective rooted in history, creativity, and mindset.In this conversation, Jesse covers:What Disney’s partnership with OpenAI really involvesWhy AI-generated characters are not the same thing as replacing actorsHow fear and anger shut down creativity — and opportunityWhy actors are not at the “top of the food chain,” and why that mattersThe parallels between AI and past industry shifts like television and CGIA powerful story about someone using AI to finally become an artistWhy curiosity is the only mindset that creates momentumHow assumptions — not facts — derail acting careersWhy most actors don’t fail because of technology, but because they stop enjoying the journeyJesse challenges actors to stop clenching their fists and start asking better questions:What’s possible now? How can I adapt? How can this serve my creativity instead of killing it?This episode is about choice — fear or curiosity — and why one leads to stagnation while the other leads to opportunity.👉 Comment below: Are you approaching AI with fear or curiosity right now?👉 Subscribe for weekly conversations designed to help actors build careers that actually last.
Today Jesse sits down with David Martin, the mind behind the original Get Scene studio design and the technical wizard behind so many of your favorite projects. From producing for major YouTubers and Cam Newton to editing over 500 million views’ worth of content, David brings a creator-first mindset that every actor needs to hear.
This episode covers:
🎥 Why actors MUST learn the technical side
— lighting, framing, lenses, exposure, editing, and self-tape quality
— and how understanding these tools makes you a better actor
💡 The mindset shift that changed David’s career
—from chasing money to focusing on how his work makes people feel
—leading to new clients, bigger opportunities, and creative fulfillment
❤️ Creating with your spouse
— how he and his wife Aaron turned auditions into connection, play, and teamwork
— and why trusting your reader is essential
📱 Why YOU should start creating content now
David says it best:
“Be the creator, not the consumer.”
If you’ve been stuck waiting for opportunities to come to you, this conversation will shake you awake.
👇 Comment below:
What’s ONE piece of content you will create this week?
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Agent Cheri Van Loon from Marilyn’s Agency joins Jesse to share real, practical insights about auditions, communication, materials, and what it truly means to take ownership of your acting career.
Cheri brings passion, clarity, and zero fluff — she loves this industry and cares deeply about the actors she works with. In this episode, she breaks down exactly what she sees every day inside the audition and submission process.
They cover:
🌟 What Cheri loves most about being an agent
📬 The communication habits agents wish actors had
📸 Why your headshots matter more than you think (even if you still “look like them”)
🎯 The mindset shift: “Treat every audition like it’s your last”
💼 Why actors must take ownership of their business
🧒 How kid actors differ from adult actors — and where the training begins
🎭 Why community theaters, classes, and creative outlets keep you sharp
📈 Why continual training and refreshed materials are essential
Cheri’s advice is real, encouraging, and a must-hear for any actor who wants to grow.
👉 Subscribe for weekly conversations with top casting directors, agents, and working actors.
👉 Comment below: What’s ONE thing you’re improving in your audition process after this episode?
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Actor, coach, and filmmaker Dwayne Boyd joins Jesse Malinowski for one of the most authentic and inspiringconversations on Get Scene Unscripted.
From founding Premiere Actors Network over 20 years ago to working with Al Pacino, Nicolas Cage, and Netflix’s Raising Dion, Dwayne has lived every chapter of the actor’s journey — the grind, the pivot, and the freedom that comes from saying yes to growth.
🎭 In this episode, they talk about:
Building a career that lasts decades, not seasons
Why financial freedom fuels creativity
The secret to balancing multiple passions (acting, coaching, real estate, more)
How to turn imposter syndrome into momentum
The power of saying yes — and when to finally say no
Using AI and new tech to expand storytelling, not replace it
This isn’t just another actor interview — it’s a blueprint for sustainable success in Hollywood and beyond.
💬 Comment below: What’s your “side hustle” or creative project that gives you freedom?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring the top casting directors, working actors, and agents shaping the Southeast film industry.
Actor and entrepreneur Rosemary Gilbert joins Jesse Malinowski to share how starting a pool company with her husband completely changed her life — both financially and creatively.This episode is all about the real side of pursuing your dreams while keeping stability and purpose. Rosemary breaks down how she went from waiting tables to running a thriving business that actually gives her more energy and freedom to act.They dive into:💼 How actors can create businesses that serve their careers💡 The surprising lessons she learned from customer service🎭 Why your side hustle should give you energy — not drain it❤️ How working with her husband made their marriage stronger🎬 The mindset shift from “I can’t” to “I’m going to figure it out”Rosemary proves that success doesn’t mean giving up your art — it means building a life that supports it.👉 Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top actors, agents, and casting directors.👉 Comment below: What side hustle or business idea could support your acting dream?Find all our offerings at: www.GetSceneStudios.com#GetSceneUnscripted #RosemaryGilbert #ActorTips #ActingPodcast #ActorEntrepreneur #SideHustleForActors #ActorMindset #FinancialFreedomForActors
He’s got over 130 film and TV credits, but actor Tony DeMil says the biggest lesson he’s learned isn’t about booking — it’s about being happy now.
In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse and Tony go deep on the mindset shift every actor eventually has to face: that more roles, money, or fame don’t guarantee peace.
They talk about:
🎭 How Tony went from Orlando’s indie scene to working on Burn Notice and Bloodline
🧠 Why chasing “the next booking” won’t fix your unhappiness
💬 The mindset that keeps you grounded between jobs
💡 How to enjoy acting again — even when auditions are slow
💰 Real talk about financial stability and side jobs
🥋 What jiu-jitsu taught Tony about patience, ego, and growth
❤️ Why self-awareness and gratitude are essential for longevity
This episode is raw, vulnerable, and packed with hard truths about what it really means to succeed as an actor.
👉 Hit Subscribe for weekly interviews with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.
👉 Comment below: What does happiness look like for you right now?
Join our Improve Your Audition Bootcamp starting NOV 17th! 5 workshops, one week to CHANGE EVERYTHING! Use promo code FREEBOOTCAMP and get the Bootcamp FREE with the purchase of any of our other workshops! Find all our offerings here: www.GetSceneStudios.com
You might recognize Lauren Buglioli from the hit soap Beyond the Gates, where she’s appeared in over 70 episodes — but her real story is about growth, self-worth, and learning to let go of perfection.In this Get Scene Unscripted episode, Jesse sits down with Lauren to talk about:
🎭 How playing a “flawed, powerful woman” changed her real life
💬 Why actors must separate themselves from their characters
⚡ How to stop chasing perfection and start living your purpose
🧘♀️ Why your worth isn’t defined by jobs, followers, or praise
❤️ The importance of gratitude, mindset, and spiritual growthLauren gets raw and honest about what it’s like to be publicly misunderstood, how she’s learned to “love the discomfort,” and why your ego can be your biggest obstacle.
👉 Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top actors, agents, and casting directors.
👉 Comment below: What’s one thing you’re learning to let go of as an actor?
Join our Improv Your Audition Bootcamp starting NOV 17th! 5 workshops, one week to CHANGE EVERYTHING! Use promo code FREEBOOTCAMP and get the Bootcamp FREE with the purchase of any of our other workshops!
Find all our offerings here: www.GetSceneStudios.com
What do casting directors really look for in self-tapes, and how can actors actually book more of the new “vertical” films taking over the industry?In this Get Scene Unscripted episode, Jesse sits down with casting director Cheryl Louden-Kubin to talk about the explosion of vertical micro-dramas, auditioning for fast-paced productions, and how staying grounded personally is just as important as growing professionally.They cover:🎬 What casting directors wish actors knew about audition prep📱 How the “vertical” film world works (and why it’s a game-changer)⚡ The mistakes that make actors lose roles before callbacks💡 Why professionalism and energy on set get you rehired🧘♀️ How Cheryl stays centered through stress, hypnotherapy, and self-care💬 Why actors need to be well-rounded humans — not just artistsCheryl has cast over 30+ feature-length vertical films and helped hundreds of actors break into this fast-growing genre. Her advice is honest, practical, and deeply encouraging.👉 Hit Subscribe for more conversations with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.👉 Comment below: Have you auditioned for a vertical or micro-drama yet? What was your experience?Join our Improve Your Audition Bootcamp starting NOV 17th! 5 workshops, one week to CHANGE EVERYTHING! Use promo code FREEBOOTCAMP and get the Bootcamp FREE with the purchase of any of our other workshops! Find all our offerings here: www.GetSceneStudios.com
Actor. Writer. Director. Casting Director. Chad Darnell has worn every hat in the industry — and in this episode, he shares exactly what he’s learned from each one.Jesse and Chad dive deep into:🎬 How Chad went from a stand-in to working on major films like Selma and Magic Mike XXL💪 Why confidence — not permission — is the key to growth in Hollywood🎭 How to balance acting, casting, and directing without losing your identity⚖️ What serving on a jury for a double-murder trial taught him about storytelling🎥 The lessons from Bright Hard, the first film under SAG-AFTRA’s interim agreement🧩 Why actors must do the work — not just “want” the careerThis conversation is packed with lessons on persistence, reinvention, and self-belief.👉 Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.👉 Comment below: Which part of Chad’s story hit home for you most?
What happens when an actor becomes a producer—and then helps pioneer an entirely new format of filmmaking?
In this Get Scene Unscripted episode, Jesse sits down with Brett Newton — actor, producer, cinematographer, and creator of Rehearse Now AI — to talk about how vertical storytelling and artificial intelligence are reshaping the industry.
They dive into:
🎥 The rise of vertical micro-dramas and why they’re creating real career opportunities for actors
⚡ Why getting your audition in early can make you unforgettable
🧠 How AI is already being used on set (and what actors need to understand now)
📱 Why storytelling will always matter more than technology
💬 What “grounded in over-the-top” acting really means
Bret has produced over 4,000 demo reel scenes and nearly 40 vertical feature films, helping build careers for countless actors in Atlanta and beyond. This conversation is an unfiltered look at where the industry is going — and how to stay ahead.
👉 Subscribe for insider insights from actors, casting directors, and agents shaping the future of film and TV.
👉 Comment below: Do you think AI is helping or hurting the industry?
How do you know if you and your agent are really the right fit?
In this Get Scene Unscripted episode, Jesse reconnects with Carol Saginaw (episode 10 alum, now back for episode 108!) to talk about the foundation of a strong actor-agent relationship. Carol is refreshingly honest about:
Why she sets up regular client check-ins and what she looks for in “progression” 📈
How communication styles can make or break the relationship ☎️
When she decides it’s time to put down the hammer—and why it’s not about breaking spirits 🔨
Why she refuses to take on talent already signed elsewhere 🚫
The importance of boundaries, balance, and still loving the work ❤️
Carol also opens up about her own growth, from walking daily with her husband to adding yoga to her routine—and why believing in yourself is the key to everything in this industry.
👉 Hit Subscribe to stay ahead with insider advice from the Southeast’s top agents.
👉 Comment below: What’s one thing YOU do to keep yourself moving forward as an actor?
When should you really leave your agent—and when is the problem actually you?
In this Get Scene Unscripted episode, Jesse sits down with Thom Milam of J Pervis Talent to uncover the inside world of representation.
Thom shares:
What actors misunderstand about switching agencies 🌱
Why trust—not pressure—is the foundation of the agent-actor relationship 🤝
How to give your agent “marching orders” that actually work 📋
The signs it’s time to move on… and the red flags it’s not 🚨
Plus: Thom’s unapologetic defense of Grease 2 as the greatest musical ever 🎶
This conversation is equal parts honest, funny, and eye-opening.
👉 Don’t just “want more”—learn how to ask for more the right way.
👉 Hit Subscribe for insider insights from the industry’s top agents and casting pros.
👉 Drop a comment: What’s been your biggest win—or regret—when it comes to reps?
She’s danced with Beyoncé, Rihanna, Katy Perry, performed in multiple Super Bowls, and appeared in Top Gun: Maverick—but that’s only part of her story.
In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse sits down with actress, dancer, and author Rachael Markarian to unpack:
How dance discipline shaped her acting career 💃🎬
The brutal truth about rejection (and how to reframe it) 🚫➡️✨
Why auditions aren’t just auditions—they’re opportunities for impact 🎯
The financial mindset every artist needs to survive 💰
The power of networking, giving value, and being a “go-giver” 🤝
Rachael’s journey from shy kid in leg braces to performing with global icons is the ultimate story of resilience, grit, and reinvention.
👉 If you’ve ever questioned whether you can “make it,” this episode is a must-watch.
👉 Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to stay ahead in your acting career.
👉 Comment below: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from rejection?
Actors—ever wondered what casting directors really think about you in the room? After two years of chasing her down, Jesse finally sits with powerhouse casting director Rita Harrell (Big Picture Casting) for one of our most honest conversations yet.
We dive into:
Why small auditions lead to BIG bookings 🎯
How casting directors fight for your rates (yes, they actually do!) 💰
The mistakes actors make in callbacks that cost them the job 🚫
Zoom vs. in-person auditions—and how to actually stand out on both 🔥
Building trust with casting & why your reputation matters more than you think
Rita pulls no punches—this is raw, funny, and brutally real. If you’re an actor in the Southeast (or anywhere chasing this dream), this episode is GOLD.
👉 Don’t just “audition,” build relationships that last.
👉 Smash that Subscribe button to never miss insider casting secrets.
Actors, in this special birthday episode Jesse Malinowski talks about nine film/TV bookings that come with nine huge lessons that could truly set your career onto the right path, make you happier on your journey, and give you an edge to find success.Find out how the films Boy Erased, Bad Boys Ride or Die, Jack Reacher Never Go Back, Yule Log 2, Scare Zone, American Reunion and TV shows Devious Maids, First Wives Club, and Mayor of Kingstown are about to have huge impact on your career. 👇 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more heart-centered conversations with incredible guests every week! 👇🔥 Tap in, subscribe, and share with every actor you know chasing the dream!🎟️ Discount links & info in the description 👇🎬You can try Get Scene Plus September 9th for ONLY $9 https://www.getscenestudios.com/getsceneplus
Agents don’t usually say this on mic. 🎙️ Talent agent Caroline Norton (Resolute Artists) breaks down the real differences between the Atlanta, Texas, and New York markets, how to survive an agent transition, and the smartest way for Southeast actors to crack NYC. We also get into theater training, being “local hire everywhere,” and why brand + craft + openness to feedback beats everything.If you’re building an acting career outside LA, this is your must-watch roadmap.What you’ll learnATL vs TX vs NYC: where the jobs are now and what’s changingExactly what to do when your agent moves agencies (legal + practical)How to be top-of-mind with your whole agency teamThe fastest path from regional credits → NYC opportunitiesWhy theater training gives you on-camera superpowersSelf-care + longevity for actors & repsGuest: Caroline Norton, Talent Agent — Resolute ArtistsHost: Jesse Malinowski — Gift Scene Unscripted👇 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more heart-centered conversations with incredible guests every week! 👇🔥 Tap in, subscribe, and share with every actor you know chasing the dream!🎟️ Discount links & info in the description 👇🎬Virtual Actors Summit - Use promo "POD" for $10 OFF - https://www.getscenestudios.com/virtualactorssummit/virtualsummitticketsONLY $19 for your first month of Rising Star - Use promo "UNSCRIPTED" - https://www.getscenestudios.com/kids🎬Get Scene Unscripted is here to help you dive into the vibrant and diverse world of the Southeast Film & TV market. Tailored for actors and industry professionals, each episode shines a spotlight on the best and brightest talents the Southeast has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just breaking into the scene, join us as we unravel the stories, insights, and passions that drive our incredible industry forward. You’ll hear from the top agents, casting directors, talent and more that the area has to offer. Don't just witness the evolution of entertainment in the Southeast—be a part of it.🎬Get Scene Studios has been the SE hub for connecting talent to industry professionals for over 10 years. If you’re looking to move your career forward in the Southeast- we’re here to help.🎬Join our Mailing List to be kept up-to-date on all of our opportunities: https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Check out our intensives: https://www.getscenestudios.com/Follow us on IG: @getscenestudios🎬