The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA Podcast By Martin Bentsen cover art

The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA

The Actor's Career Compass: Your Guide to Acting in Film, Finding Auditions & Agents, and Joining SAG AFTRA

By: Martin Bentsen
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About this listen

Struggling to book your first speaking role in a network-level production? If so, this podcast is for you. You'll learn how to find and sign with great agents, how to start getting access to high-quality auditions, and how to book major union speaking roles. Each episode addresses specific challenges faced by aspiring screen actors, including: - What casting directors are really looking for in screen actors. - How to find and impress legit, high-level agents. - How to build strong industry connections (even if you don't know anyone yet). New episodes are released Mondays and Thursdays, each filled with tactical advice to help you work through different challenges. Host Martin Bentsen has helped over 6000 actors since 2009, and has been featured in Backstage, Casting Networks, NYU Tisch, and more Ready to dive in? Start by listening to fan-favorite Episode #14: "Where to Find Legit Auditions (Without an Agent)."Copyright 2023 to Present – MJB Home Entertainment, LLC Art Economics Entertainment & Performing Arts Marketing Marketing & Sales
Episodes
  • Ep. 171: Why Accent Proficiency Is Essential for Advancing Your Acting Career
    Jun 26 2025

    Do you really need to master an American accent to land acting roles?

    Many actors wonder if their accent might hold them back from booking roles.

    In today's episode, we explore how having a believable American or regional accent can open doors to more auditions and roles, while also allowing you to stay true to your own voice.

    In this episode, you'll discover:

    • The surprising way casting directors judge your accent during auditions.
    • Why treating your accent like a costume piece can increase your chances of fitting into more roles.
    • Simple, fast methods to practice and improve your accent naturally without sounding fake.

    If you want to unlock more opportunities and sound believable on camera, listen to this episode now.

    Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

    Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

    Additional Resources:

    • Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com
    • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com
    • Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

    This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

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    6 mins
  • Ep. 170: Joshua Nelson on Building Acting Confidence and Mastering Self-Tapes
    Jun 23 2025

    Are you letting self-doubt hold you back from bold acting choices that could land you the roles you want?

    In this episode of The Actor's Career Compass, we explore how to overcome hesitation and build confidence, even if you're just starting out or feel like you're too old to begin.

    Acting coach Joshua Nelson shares powerful insights on shifting from simply "playing" a role to truly "being" the character on camera.

    • Discover why it's never too late to start your acting career and make an impact.
    • Learn the mindset shift that helps you move from tentative to fearless in your self-tape auditions.
    • Find out creative at-home training techniques you can use when classes aren't an option.

    Listen now and start making stronger, more confident acting choices that will get you noticed.

    Joshua Nelson

    LaGuardia Acting Studio: www.laguardiaacting.com

    Instagram: @Laguardiaactingschool

    Martin Bentsen

    Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

    Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

    Additional Resources:

    • Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com
    • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com
    • Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

    This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

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    28 mins
  • Ep. 169: The Best Platforms for Connecting with Casting Directors & Acting Agents
    Jun 19 2025

    Which Platforms Do Casting Directors Actually Use - And How Can You Reach Out Without Feeling Pushy?

    Are you wondering where casting directors really hang out online - and how to confidently get on their radar, even if you’re just starting out?

    This episode breaks down the exact platforms casting pros use to find actors and shows you how to connect without coming across as awkward or salesy.

    You’ll discover:

    • The 3 casting sites that give you the highest chances of being seen by top CDs
    • Which social media platforms work best for networking behind the scenes
    • A simple way to email casting directors and get remembered (without being annoying)

    Start building real connections in the industry by tuning into this quick and clear episode now.

    Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

    Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

    Additional Resources:

    • Headshots
    • Shoot Footage for Your Reel
    • Edit Footage Into a Reel

    This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

    Show more Show less
    7 mins
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