• 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.

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    7 mins
  • Ep. 168: Why Acting Feels So Unrewarding - and How to Reclaim Your Power in This Industry
    Jun 16 2025

    Do you ever feel invisible in the acting world-even when you’re giving it your all?

    For many screen actors, it can feel like no one sees the effort you’re putting in. You train, hustle, and show up... only to be met with silence, rejection, or indifference.

    This episode digs into why that happens - and what you can do to take your power back.

    Discover how to stop relying on outside validation and start building a career that reflects your worth from the inside out.

    You’ll learn:

    • Why the industry often feels cold and why that’s not your fault
    • How chasing approval can shrink your confidence without you realizing it
    • What it really means to create a career where you define your value

    Hit play to start building a more empowered, fulfilling acting journey - on your own terms.

    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.

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    9 mins
  • Ep. 167: Should You Move for Acting? NYC vs LA vs Atlanta Explained for New Screen Actors
    Jun 12 2025

    Which City Should You Move To for Acting - New York, LA, or Atlanta?

    Wondering where you should live to grow your acting career - New York, Los Angeles, or Atlanta?

    If you’ve been feeling stuck trying to pick the “right” city, this episode clears up the confusion and helps you choose based on your goals, lifestyle, and career stage.

    You’ll discover:

    • What each city offers - and what might hold you back - in your acting journey
    • A lesser-known reason why Atlanta might be the smartest place to start
    • Which city is best if you're dreaming of Broadway, blockbusters, or your first speaking role on TV

    Hit play now to find out which city is your best fit and finally feel confident about your next move.

    Contact Info:

    • 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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    8 mins
  • Ep. 166: How to Be Consistent With Your Acting Submissions... By Using a Virtual Assistant
    Jun 9 2025

    Are you tired of spending hours every day submitting for auditions and feeling stuck?

    If you’re feeling burned out by the constant hustle of submissions, today’s episode is here to help.

    We’ll show you how to use a virtual assistant (VA) to handle your submissions - so you can focus on what really matters: acting.

    You’ll learn:

    • How a VA can free up hours of your week, helping you stay consistent with submissions
    • The exact tasks to delegate - and what you must never outsource
    • Simple ways to find affordable, reliable help without getting overwhelmed

    Listen now and discover how a virtual assistant can transform your acting career by handling the admin work so you can stay focused on your craft.

    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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    10 mins
  • Ep. 165: Ivana Chubbuck Shares Her Secrets To Turning Pain Into Award-Winning Acting Performances
    Jun 5 2025

    What if your deepest pain could actually unlock the secret to your best performances as an actor?

    In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we explore how to turn personal struggles into powerful tools for acting success. Whether you’re trying to land a big role, connect with characters on a deeper level, or make bold choices in your auditions, this conversation with Ivana Chubbuck will change how you think about acting.

    You’ll discover:

    • Why using your real-life pain makes your performances more believable - and how to do it the right way.
    • The surprising mistake most actors make when “listening” in scenes - and how to avoid it.
    • How to use The Power of the Actor to level up your craft, even if you can’t work with a coach directly.

    Want to transform your acting skills and book better roles? Don’t miss this episode!

    Website: Ivanachubbuck.com

    YouTube channel -ivanachubbuckofficial

    Instagram - ivanachubbuckstudio

    Facebook: official Ivana Chubbuck Studio Inc

    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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    33 mins
  • Ep. 164: Should You Join SAG-AFTRA Now or Wait for More Acting Roles?
    Jun 2 2025

    When is the Right Time to Join SAG-AFTRA? Avoid This Career-Stalling Mistake

    Are you ready to join SAG-AFTRA, or could jumping in too soon hurt your career?

    In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest questions actors face - when to join SAG-AFTRA - and the mistake that holds so many actors back. You’ll discover why it’s not just about “feeling professional,” how your timing can make or break your career, and what it really means to be a union actor.

    You’ll learn:

    • The key sign you’re truly ready to join SAG-AFTRA (and when to hold off)
    • The hidden risk of joining too early that most actors don’t realize
    • A little-known way to build your credits and stay eligible for union work

    Ready to make the right move for your career? Hit play now and take the next smart step on your acting journey!

    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.

    Show more Show less
    9 mins