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Explore every episode of the podcast Get Scene Unscripted

Dive into the complete episode list for Get Scene Unscripted. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Actors Hate AI, But This Loki Actor Says It's the Crew You Always Asked For06 Oct 202601:31:14

Jesse Malinowski reunites with Get Scene Studios co-founder Ilan McCallum, who booked five of six episodes of Marvel's Loki and was nearly cast as Jesus on The Walking Dead, only to find the reality on set looked nothing like the promise. On this Get Scene Unscripted, they get into why your identity can't be acting, how he built a watch brand and a martial arts channel into real income, and why he thinks actors angry about AI are ignoring the crew they always said they needed.

SAG Can't Do Anything to You29 Sep 202600:55:25

ReelShort casting director and Golden Artists Entertainment manager Dante Rusciolelli joins Jesse Malinowski on Get Scene Unscripted to explain why he believes SAG-AFTRA is setting itself up to fail, from a health insurance threshold most members never hit to residuals that still go missing 15 years into streaming. Plus the truth about going Fi-Core, a $790 commercial contract that changed the Georgia market, and why Dante says actors and writers, not tech, are the real inventors of AI, only from Get Scene Studios.

The Casting Director Rule I Broke to Book Mayor of Kingstown22 Sep 202600:28:42

Jesse Malinowski went behind the scenes of the Virtual Actors Summit — including a Wi-Fi meltdown mid-livestream — and pulled two lessons that apply directly to your acting career. Casting director Amanda from Bream Doyle Casting (Chad Powers) told the room that actors should be able to run their own business however they want, and Jesse breaks down exactly why he ignored conventional headshot advice to land his first audition from a new casting director and book a recurring guest star on Mayor of Kingstown (Paramount+). Get Scene Unscripted drops new episodes every week alongside That Actor Couple and Talent Agent Talk.


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https://calendly.com/macie-getscenestudios/30min


Your Agent Can't Pitch You If You're Doing This Wrong15 Sep 202601:00:19

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Aligned Stars agent Barbara Divisek an agent with over 50 years in the industry — to expose the exact reasons actors stall out on a roster and land on drop lists. From the self-tape habits that quietly kill careers to the local hire rules most actors don't know exist, Barbara pulls back the curtain on how agents actually decide who to fight for on Get Scene Unscripted.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Join our Patreon!⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/GetScenePod⁠Get Your Ticket For Our Virtual Summit!https://www.getscenestudios.com/virtual-actors-summit

He Almost Confronted a Casting Director — Then This Happened08 Sep 202600:54:23

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Stephen Cofield Jr. — 70+ credits, FBI Most Wanted, Terrifier 3, The Equalizer — to get into the real business of a working actor in New York City, including the mixer where Stephen almost confronted a casting director and what she actually said when he got to the front of the line. On Get Scene Unscripted, Stephen breaks down how he lost a role to Michael B. Jordan, what it's really like to get your scene cut on set, why Broadway is the one credit still missing from his resume, and the mindset shift that separates actors who last from actors who burn out.


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What An Agent Actually Wants From You01 Sep 202601:03:02

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Jillian Skale, head of voiceover and commercial at DDO Talent in Chicago, to break down why most actors are unknowingly getting cut from commercial auditions before a single casting director ever sees them. Get Scene Unscripted pulls back the curtain on multi-market booking strategy, what SAG status really costs you in the commercial world, and the one thing your voiceover agent is watching that has nothing to do with your voice.

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Annette Stilwell EXPOSES What Kills Your Commercial Bookings25 Aug 202600:52:52

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Annette Stilwell, founder of Stillwell Casting, who has been casting commercials and film in the Southeast since 1980 — and she does not hold back on what actors are getting wrong. From the commercial booking process (hint: five different people have to say yes before you get the job) to what first refusal actually means legally, this episode is the business-side education most actors never get. Find more actor resources and training at Get Scene Studios.


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No Representation Beats Bad Representation: A NYC Agent Gets Real18 Aug 202601:08:48

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Tucker from DGRW Talent in New York for one of the most direct conversations about agent-client dynamics we have had on Get Scene Unscripted -- including why Tucker says no representation is better than bad representation and how actors should actually think about costar versus guest star strategy. From his early casting days at Terry Rubin's office to landing his agent role by telling the interviewers he did not want to be an agent, Tucker pulls back the curtain on exactly how a boutique New York agency decides who gets signed and what they are actually doing for you once you are on their roster.


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New Talent Agent Reveals the Roster Slot That Decides If You Get Signed11 Aug 202600:48:51

Privilege Talent's newest agent, Antonyo Myers, joins host Jesse Malinowski at Get Scene Studios to explain what actually happens on the agency side: a roster of 81 clients, why he stopped signing an entire physical type once the slots filled up, and the email habit that costs actors auditions before casting ever sees them. He also breaks down the difference between collaborating with your agent and outsourcing your career to them, plus the lesson from Jacob and Corey that changed how he talks to anxious clients during slow seasons. Get Scene Unscripted is the Southeast's #1 actor podcast, featuring casting directors, talent agents, and working actors.


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3,000 Submissions, 60 Slots: Casting Director Reveals Who Actually Gets Seen03 Aug 202601:00:09

New York casting director Joanna Davis joins host Jesse Malinowski at Get Scene Studios to break down what actually happens to your submission: roughly 3,000 actors on a guest star role, about 60 who get asked to tape, and the reel and headshot habits that decide which side you land on. She also covers why the "you don't live in LA" bias is gone, the local hire answer that quietly costs you the job, and the resume pattern that tells her you've been hiring yourself. Get Scene Unscripted is the Southeast's #1 actor podcast, featuring casting directors, agents, and working actors.


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Why Your Acting Coach Might Be Holding You Back (Agency Owner Explains)28 Jul 202600:55:17

Jesse Malinowski sits down with the owner of The Avenue Agency, a 25-year talent agency veteran, who breaks down exactly why agents drop actors, why staying in the same acting class too long gets you passed over, and the true story of a casting team ready to blacklist an actor and go after their agent. Get Scene Unscripted brings working actors real answers from Atlanta and southeast agents, casting directors, and coaches every week.


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Why Grounded Actors Fall Flat in Verticals (Tyler Perry Casting Vet Explains)21 Jul 202600:52:07

Tyler Perry Studios casting veteran Rhavynn Drummer returns to Get Scene Unscripted to tell Jesse Malinowski why actors dismissing verticals as "bad acting" are missing the biggest paid training ground in years, after producing 7 micro dramas in just 7 months. She also breaks down why casting directors have no union or residuals, the Sing Sing equal-pay ownership model, and why AI "can be sad, but it can't be complex."


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Casting Directors Are SICK of Self-Tapes14 Jul 202600:55:19

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Broadway vet and LA acting coach David Gray (HBO's Game Change opposite Julianne Moore, David Gray Studios), who puts a student on a TV show nearly every month, to break down why casting directors say every self-tape looks the same and why "real and grounded" is only step one. They get into the vertical boom taking over the industry, why only 2% of SAG works at any given time, and the audition wins actors never find out about, only on Get Scene Unscripted from Get Scene Studios.

Why You Didn't Get a Callback (It's Not Your Tape): Stilwell Casting Tells All 07 Jul 202600:54:43

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Stilwell Casting's Katherine Barber, who reveals that nearly half of actors ghost their commercial auditions, breakdowns go out to 69 agencies with thousands of submissions, and simply following directions beats 30% of your competition. From the agent email that gets overlooked actors through instantly to the submission note that helped Jesse book a job, this Get Scene Unscripted episode is packed with insider tactics working actors can use on their very next self-tape.

Casting Director EXPOSES Why 1 in 70 Actors Actually Book30 Jun 202600:56:48

Veteran casting director Lori Wyman (Miami Vice, Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Bloodline, Ballers) joins Jesse Malinowski on Get Scene Unscripted to reveal why only 1 of 70 self-tapes she received was good enough to submit, and the on-set memorization disasters that got working actors blacklisted. From the two-take rule actors get wrong to why nutrition tanks auditions, this is four decades of casting truth most actors never hear.


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Actors Are Addicted to External Validation — Here's the Fix23 Jun 202600:33:08

Jesse Malinowski breaks down the three most common mindset traps keeping actors stuck -- uncontrollable goals, the external validation cycle, and not enjoying the process -- and gives a concrete three-step system to build real confidence in your acting career. If you've ever wondered whether your auditions are getting better or felt like you're on a treadmill to nowhere, this Get Scene Unscripted solo episode is built for you.


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She Booked 85 Commercials by Refusing to Do What Most Actors Do16 Jun 202601:08:42

Working actress Tommy Aleman has booked roughly 85 commercials, led an indie horror feature, and built a life of multiple income streams — and on this Get Scene Unscripted, host Jesse Malinowski digs into why gratitude beats entitlement on set, the wardrobe research most actors skip, and the "needy" energy casting directors can sense instantly. A real, funny, honest conversation about commercials, verticals, indie films, and surviving the working-actor grind in the Southeast film industry.

The Real Reason Your Self-Tapes Aren't Booking (And 4 Easy Fixes)09 Jun 202600:30:14

Host Jesse Malinowski breaks down 4 dead-simple self-tape strategies, the reaction shot, making discoveries, the nine-quadrant frame trick, and the "secret" technique, that make any audition more engaging no matter where you are on the talent spectrum. Get Scene Unscripted is the Southeast's #1 actor podcast for working actors, self-tape, and audition tips from Get Scene Studios.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Join out Patreon!⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/GetScenePod⁠

Wicked Tour to Vertical Director: The $27 Billion Industry She's Helping Build02 Jun 202600:55:41

Jesse Malinowski sits down with actress, director, and Cosmic Film Co founder Amanda Fallon Smith — a former Miss Pennsylvania who told her entire family not to show up when she competed, then won with no one in the crowd, and later accidentally became a vertical film director when her hired director dropped out last minute on her very first project. Amanda breaks down the $27 billion vertical film industry, what it really takes to run a 7-day film bootcamp, why film acting is technically harder than theater, and how Bob Krakauer's class changed everything about how she directs on Get Scene Unscripted with Jesse Malinowski.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Join out Patreon!⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/GetScenePod⁠

Agents Are Lying to You — You Don't Need a Referral to Get Signed26 May 202600:41:45

Jesse Malinowski breaks down the three things actually holding Southeast actors back from getting signed — and calls out exactly why the "you need a referral" and "you need a demo reel" advice is costing you time. Get Scene Unscripted digs into headshot strategy, how to write a cover letter agents actually read, and the AWA "Zoom Test" method for finding your biggest appeal. If you've been chasing an agent in Atlanta or the Southeast and feel stuck, this episode is the game plan you weren't given.


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The Real Reason Directors Replace Actors (It's Not Your Talent)18 May 202601:04:49

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Stacia Crawford — Netflix director, intimacy coordinator on ABC's RJ Decker, producer, and working actress — to pull back the curtain on what directors actually see before you say action and why actors who nail the self-tape sometimes get replaced on set. On Get Scene Unscripted, Stacia also breaks down IC rights every SAG actor should know, why saying lines wrong can legally breach a writer's contract, and the mindset shift that separates actors who last from ones who burn out.

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$3,000 in 30 Minutes: The Voiceover Income Secret Actors Miss11 May 202600:56:12

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Heidi Rew of Atlanta VoiceOver Studio to unpack how on-camera actors can break into voiceover — including how Heidi booked a $3,000 job and delivered it in under 30 minutes, and why most actors have no idea studio rosters exist or how to get on them. Get Scene Unscripted breaks down demo strategy, Source Connect, the 10-auditions-a-day approach, animation VO, and why your acting skills already give you a serious edge in voiceover.


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FREE VO TIPS and RESOURCES from Heidi and Atlanta VOEmail Newsletter - Actionable, really helpful tips and adviceHome Studio Recommendations - A list of equipment needed for a Home Studio for any budget

Stop Being a Lazy Actor: Manager Reveals Audition + Social Media Truths05 May 202601:00:03

Get Scene Unscripted host Jesse Malinowski sits down with talent managerĀ Gail Tassel of Tassel Talent GroupĀ (25 years in the Southeast) to break down the real reason actors get dropped (hint: it's not booking), the Sean Hayes audition mindset that books more roles, and how a single social media post got one of her clients dropped by his agent. Plus AI replacing Marvel's digital team, why "lazy actors" are losing Zoom auditions, and the demo reel platform casting actually wants. New toĀ Get Scene Studios? Subscribe for Get Scene Unscripted, Talent Agent Talk, and That Actor Couple every week.


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Monthly Promo :

Use code BOOKEDPOD for $10 off the 4-week Booking Challenge

https://www.getscenestudios.com/getsceneonline/booked-it-challenge-5zka6


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Why This Top 10% Actor REFUSES To Coach You On Self-Tapes28 Apr 202600:59:07

Matt Cornwell — 130+ credits, 20+ years in the Southeast, and the man behind Get Taped's 350+ videos — joins Get Scene host Jesse Malinowski to unpack the real reason most actors aren't booking, the insurance backdoor inside casting offices, and why he refuses to coach during your self-tape. Plus: how Georgia still beats LA by $1.25B in tax incentives, his Steve Martin philosophy on staying in the top 10%, and the celebrity-set booking he believes belonged to another actor.


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Stop Reading the Breakdown & Why Your Self-Tape Feels Boring24 Apr 202600:30:08

Jesse Malinowski breaks down 3 unconventional strategies to rescue your self-tapes from autopilot — including the Game of Thrones jacket that booked him the role of Beauregard, a Tulsa King casting director's slate story that changed everything, and why ignoring the breakdown might be your biggest advantage. Get Scene Unscripted delivers real audition tactics from the #1 Southeast actor podcast.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Monthly Promo :Use code BOOKEDPOD for $10 off the 4-week Booking Challengehttps://www.getscenestudios.com/getsceneonline/booked-it-challenge-5zka6

Your Self-Tape Setup Is Killing Your Auditions — Here's the Fix24 Apr 202600:26:37

Jesse Malinowski breaks down the 5 non-negotiable elements every self-tape needs — from the backdrop and lighting upgrades that transformed his own auditions to the reader strategy most actors completely overlook. Whether you're taping in your kitchen or building a full home studio, this episode of Get Scene Unscripted gives you the exact framework working actors in the Southeast use to stand out in a billion-dollar industry.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Monthly Promo :Use code BOOKEDPOD for $10 off the 4-week Booking Challengehttps://www.getscenestudios.com/getsceneonline/booked-it-challenge-5zka6

Why He Kept His Day Job After Booking a Movie Franchise — Chad Michael Collins09 Apr 202601:10:05

Jesse Malinowski sits down with Chad Michael Collins — star of 9 Sony Sniper films, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare's Alex, and a former Hollywood publicist who never took an acting class until age 24. From keeping his day job for 8 years after booking a franchise lead, to why he left LA for Georgia after 20 years, Chad drops real talk on audition technique, building multiple revenue streams, and the mindset that keeps actors in the game. Get Scene Unscripted brings you the playbook working actors actually use.Join Our Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Monthly Promo :Use code BOOKEDPOD for $10 off the 4-week Booking Challengehttps://www.getscenestudios.com/getsceneonline/booked-it-challenge-5zka6

This Is What a Real Working Actor Looks Like31 Mar 202600:49:16

What does a real working actor actually look like in today’s industry?In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down with a working actor who is actively building a career across multiple markets — while balancing family, training, and creating his own projects.This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and breaks down:How to manage jealousy and comparison in actingWhy ā€œserving the storyā€ matters more than standing outHow to choose the right training (and avoid overwhelm)What it really takes to work in multiple markets like New York and AtlantaWhy producing your own work is becoming essentialHow to balance acting with family and real life responsibilitiesThey also dive into mindset — including letting emotions pass, staying grounded, and focusing on what actually moves your career forward.If you’re serious about becoming a working actor (not just training like one), this episode will hit differently.šŸ‘‰ Share this with an actor who’s trying to figure out their next step.Subscribe for more real conversations with working actors and industry pros.Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958Promo:Use code BOOKEDPOD for $10 off the 4-week Booking Challenge#GetSceneUnscripted #actingcareer #workingactor #auditiontips #actorslife

Ultimate Training For Your Reader24 Mar 202600:31:54

Your reader can absolutely affect your audition more than you think. In this episode, Jesse Malinowski breaks down how actors can create a better self-tape environment, direct their reader more clearly, and avoid common mistakes that hurt auditions.If you’re an actor sending self-tapes, this conversation covers how to work better with your reader, why pacing matters, why overacting on the reader’s side can throw things off, and how preparation changes everything. Jesse also shares practical advice for both actors and readers so auditions can feel more efficient, more collaborative, and more effective.In this episode:Why actors need to show their reader appreciationWhy directing your reader is part of your jobWhy your homework should be done before the self-tape sessionWhy readers should not try to ā€œactā€ the sceneWhy pacing is one of the biggest issues casting noticesWhy self-tapes should be treated like real work, not an actor play dateIf this episode helped you, send it to your favorite reader before your next audition.Subscribe for more acting career advice, audition strategy, and behind-the-scenes conversations for film and TV actors.Newsletter:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958

šŸŽÆ Ready to take action on your acting career? Get $10 OFF the Booked It Challenge with promo code BOOKEDPOD

Make Your Own Opportunities17 Mar 202600:45:30

In this episode of Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down with producer, writer, director, and editor Steven LaMorte to talk about what it really takes to build a career in film.From making stop-motion movies as a kid to producing major genre projects, Steven shares how persistence, creativity, and taking ownership of your ideas can lead to real opportunities in the industry.They also dive into:• Why creators need to make their own opportunities• The mindset behind producing your own projects• How actors and filmmakers can stand out today• Why starting small is often the smartest moveIf you're trying to build momentum in the film and TV industry, this conversation is packed with insight.

The Real Reason Actors Don’t Book24 Feb 202600:55:27

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jason Lockhart sits down to break down a hard but necessary truth for actors:

If you’re getting auditions but not booking… that’s information.

This conversation unpacks:

  • What consistent auditions actually signal

  • Why booking isn’t random

  • The difference between opportunity and readiness

  • What agents are really watching

  • When it’s a craft issue vs. a market fit issue

  • How actors misinterpret ā€œalmostā€

This isn’t about discouragement — it’s about clarity.

If you want sustainable momentum in film and television, you need to understand what the pattern is telling you.

šŸ‘‡ Drop a comment: Are you getting auditions but not bookings? What do you think it means?

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5 Lessons From Making Over $500,000 as an Actor17 Feb 202600:29:14

In this solo episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski breaks downĀ five major lessons he’s learned from earning over $500,000 as an actorĀ across more than a decade in the industry.

Rather than focusing on audition tricks or quick wins, Jesse walks through the deeper patterns that made long-term income possible, including mindset, preparation, and treating acting like a real business.

In this episode, Jesse covers:

  • Why a strongĀ support systemĀ is essential for longevity

  • How to mentally prepare forĀ peaks and valleysĀ in an acting career

  • WhyĀ commercial work is kingĀ when it comes to financial stability

  • How actors must create and chaseĀ more opportunities, not wait for them

  • Why ā€œsay yes and show upā€ is one of the most important career principles

Jesse also shares personal stories from early bookings, long droughts, commercial runs, and lessons learned from years of consistency — offering a grounded look at what it really takes to build income over time as an actor.

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Casting Needs You More Than You Think10 Feb 202600:42:18

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down withĀ Sara Watkins, who spentĀ ten years in castingĀ before transitioning into aĀ talent agent role.

Sarah shares what she learned on both sides of the table — from casting offices to agency life — and breaks down what actors often misunderstand about ego, self-worth, responsiveness, and consistency.

This conversation covers:

  • What casting directorsĀ actually noticeĀ over time

  • WhyĀ continuing educationĀ shows up clearly on tape

  • How ego can quietly limit an actor’s growth

  • The importance ofĀ fast, professional communication

  • Why actors should separateĀ self-worth from callbacks

  • How submissions, responsiveness, and consistency affect trust

Sara also explains why, in her words,Ā ā€œcasting needs you more than you need castingā€Ā ā€” and what that really means for how actors should show up, prepare, and communicate.

This episode is a grounded look at the business side of acting, straight from someone who has lived inside casting rooms and now advocates for talent daily.


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The Smallest Residual Checks I’ve Ever Received03 Feb 202600:23:18

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski does something actors rarely talk about — he breaks down theĀ three smallest residual checks he’s ever received, including checks for justĀ one cent, and the lessons each one taught him at different stages of his career.

Jesse walks through:

  • Why tiny residuals don’t mean a job wasn’t worth it

  • How investing in a market can take years before it pays off

  • The sacrifices he made to break into the New Orleans market

  • Why how youĀ frame your experience in a slate matters

  • How one booking reignited his confidence after a long drought

  • Why the meaning of a role changes depending on where you are in your career

This episode is aboutĀ perspective, patience, and long-term thinking — not chasing surface-level wins, but understanding what each opportunity can unlock over time.

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What Really Paid Me27 Jan 202600:18:30

In this solo episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski breaks downĀ the three biggest acting checks he’s received over the last decadeĀ and theĀ specific lessons each job taught him.

After reviewing his SAG-AFTRA earnings going back to 2016, Jesse walks through:

  • A $15,000 pharmaceutical commercial buyout and why commercials can be career-changing

  • An Icy Hot commercial that proved one job can erase months of unpaid effort

  • A role onĀ 24: LegacyĀ that booked from aĀ one-take self-tape done while traveling in Ireland

Along the way, Jesse talks honestly about:

  • Why flexibility matters more than talent in some auditions

  • How actors eliminate themselves by not being available

  • Why doing less in auditions can sometimes book more

  • The danger of over-taping and chasing ā€œperfectā€ takes

  • When instincts work—and when they absolutely don’t

  • Why experience changes how you should approach auditions

This episode is aĀ real breakdown of money, mindset, and mechanics—not hype, not shortcuts, just lived experience.


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Actors Don’t Fail — They Skip the Plan20 Jan 202600:43:14

Actors often have big goals — series regular, major shows, career breakthroughs — but what actually gets them there?

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse sits down withĀ Emma Graves of District Modeling TalentĀ to break down what agents actually look for, why actors stall, and how real progress is built throughĀ training, intentional planning, and realistic steps.

They talk about:

  • Why skipping the ladder hurts your career

  • What agents mean by an ā€œactionable planā€

  • How headshots, training, and submissions work together

  • Why being submitted but not called in is still useful data

  • The difference between dreaming and intentional action

This conversation is a grounded, honest look at how actors can take responsibility for their careers — without burnout or delusion.


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The Truth About Turning Down Acting Jobs06 Jan 202600:54:47

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted, Jesse Malinowski sits down with a recurring guest and working actor to talk honestly aboutĀ momentum, flexibility, and why working actors often say yes to projects others would turn down.

They break down real career scenarios, including:

  • TakingĀ local, lower-budget workĀ even after major credits

  • WhyĀ being on set beats waiting for the ā€œperfectā€ 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 aĀ separate hire, not a linear ladder

The conversation reframes what ā€œmoving forwardā€ actually looks like in an acting career and why rigid standards can quietly stop actors from working.

šŸ‘‡Ā Comment below:
Where are you flexible right now — rate, travel, or role size?

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The Advice That Saved My Acting Career30 Dec 202500:57:27

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 ā€œall-inā€ 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.šŸ‘‰ Comment below: What's a lesson your mom taught you that shaped your life?šŸ“© 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

Why Actors Must Become Multi Hyphenates23 Dec 202500:52:56

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 ā€œmagnum opusā€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.šŸŽ§ Subscribe for weekly conversations with casting directors, agents, filmmakers, and working actors.šŸ“© Join our newsletter for actor resources, podcast drops, and upcoming workshops:https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958

Give Yourself A Shot, Zoom Audition or Tape, Working Local22 Dec 202500:33:31

If you’ve ever thought, ā€œIt probably won’t matter anywayā€ — 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 ā€œoweā€ 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 ā€œwhat ifs,ā€ and more confidence in your submissions — this is a must-watch.šŸ‘‡ Comment below:What’s the hardest audition direction you’ve ever had to figure out?šŸ“© Join our newsletter for actors (podcasts, workshops, and industry insight):https://getscenestudios.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7660af20fdb3c04d6b6516591&id=eecb804958šŸŽŸ Get your tickets for the Southeast Actors Summit! https://www.getscenestudios.com/southeast-actor-summit

Disney + AI: What This Really Means for Actors16 Dec 202500:20:38

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 ā€œtop of the food chain,ā€ 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.šŸ‘‰ Comment below: Are you approaching AI with fear or curiosity right now?šŸ‘‰ Subscribe for weekly conversations designed to help actors build careers that actually last.

David Martin: Creators Win — Not Consumers09 Dec 202500:39:35

Today Jesse sits down withĀ 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 overĀ 500 million views’ worthĀ of content, David brings a creator-first mindset that every actor needs to hear.Ā 

This episode covers:
šŸŽ„Ā Why actors MUST learn the technical side
— lighting, framing, lenses, exposure, editing, and self-tape quality
— and how understanding these tools makes you aĀ better actor

šŸ’”Ā The mindset shift that changed David’s career
—from chasing money to focusing onĀ how his work makes people feel
—leading to new clients, bigger opportunities, and creative fulfillment

ā¤ļøĀ Creating with your spouse
— how he and his wife Aaron turned auditions into connection, play, and teamwork
— and why trusting your reader is essential

šŸ“±Ā Why YOU should start creating content now
David says it best:

ā€œBe the creator, not the consumer.ā€Ā 

If you’ve been stuck waiting for opportunities to come to you, this conversation will shake you awake.

šŸ‘‡Ā Comment below:
What’s ONE piece of content you will create this week?

šŸ”” Subscribe for weekly episodes with the top actors, agents, casting directors, and creatives shaping the Southeast entertainment industry.

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Agent Cheri Van Loon: Treat Every Audition Like It’s Your Last02 Dec 202500:50:16

AgentĀ Cheri Van LoonĀ fromĀ Marilyn’s AgencyĀ 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
šŸ“¬ The communication habits agents wish actors had
šŸ“ø Why your headshots matter more than you think (even if you still ā€œlook like themā€)
šŸŽÆ The mindset shift:Ā ā€œTreat every audition like it’s your lastā€
šŸ’¼ Why actors must take ownership of their business
šŸ§’ How kid actors differ from adult actors — and where the training begins
šŸŽ­ Why community theaters, classes, and creative outlets keep you sharp
šŸ“ˆ 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.

šŸ‘‰Ā SubscribeĀ for weekly conversations with top casting directors, agents, and working actors.
šŸ‘‰Ā Comment below:Ā What’s ONE thing you’re improving in your audition process after this episode?

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Dwayne Boyd: Building Longevity, Freedom & Purpose as a Working Actor25 Nov 202500:48:00

Actor, coach, and filmmakerĀ Dwayne BoydĀ joins Jesse Malinowski for one of the mostĀ authentic and inspiringconversations on Get Scene Unscripted.

From foundingĀ Premiere Actors NetworkĀ over 20 years ago to working withĀ Al Pacino, Nicolas Cage, and Netflix’sĀ 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.

šŸŽ­ In this episode, they talk about:

  • Building aĀ career that lasts decades, not seasons

  • WhyĀ financial freedomĀ fuels creativity

  • The secret to balancing multiple passions (acting, coaching, real estate, more)

  • How to turnĀ imposter syndromeĀ into momentum

  • TheĀ power of saying yes — and when to finally say no

  • UsingĀ AI and new techĀ to expand storytelling, not replace it

This isn’t just another actor interview — it’s aĀ blueprint for sustainable successĀ in Hollywood and beyond.

šŸ’¬Ā Comment below:Ā What’s your ā€œside hustleā€ or creative project that gives you freedom?


šŸ”” Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring the top casting directors, working actors, and agents shaping the Southeast film industry.

Rosemary Gilbert: Building a Business That Fuels Your Acting Career18 Nov 202500:39:32

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:šŸ’¼ How actors can create businesses that serve their careersšŸ’” The surprising lessons she learned from customer servicešŸŽ­ Why your side hustle should give you energy — not drain itā¤ļø How working with her husband made their marriage strongeršŸŽ¬ The mindset shift from ā€œI can’tā€ to ā€œI’m going to figure it outā€Rosemary proves that success doesn’t mean giving up your art — it means building a life that supports it.šŸ‘‰ Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top actors, agents, and casting directors.šŸ‘‰ 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

Tony DeMil: Why Happiness Can’t Wait — Finding Joy Beyond Booking the Job11 Nov 202501:04:47

He’s got overĀ 130 film and TV credits, but actorĀ Tony DeMilĀ says the biggest lesson he’s learned isn’t about booking — it’s aboutĀ being happy now.

In this episode ofĀ Get Scene Unscripted,Ā 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:
šŸŽ­ How Tony went from Orlando’s indie scene to working onĀ Burn NoticeĀ andĀ Bloodline
🧠 Why chasing ā€œthe next bookingā€ won’t fix your unhappiness
šŸ’¬ The mindset that keeps you grounded between jobs
šŸ’” How to enjoy acting again — even when auditions are slow
šŸ’° Real talk about financial stability and side jobs
šŸ„‹ What jiu-jitsu taught Tony about patience, ego, and growth
ā¤ļø Why self-awareness and gratitude are essential for longevity

This episode is raw, vulnerable, and packed with hard truths about what itĀ reallyĀ means to succeed as an actor.

šŸ‘‰ HitĀ SubscribeĀ for weekly interviews with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.
šŸ‘‰ Comment below:Ā 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

Lauren Buglioli: Growth, Grace & Why You’ll Never ā€˜Arrive’ as an Actor04 Nov 202500:58:31

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:

šŸŽ­ How playing a ā€œflawed, powerful womanā€ changed her real life

šŸ’¬ Why actors must separate themselves from their characters

⚔ How to stop chasing perfection and start living your purpose

šŸ§˜ā€ā™€ļø Why your worth isn’t defined by jobs, followers, or praise

ā¤ļø 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 ā€œlove the discomfort,ā€ and why your ego can be your biggest obstacle.


šŸ‘‰ Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top actors, agents, and casting directors.

šŸ‘‰ 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

Casting Director Cheryl Louden-Kubin: The Truth About Micro-Dramas, Auditions & Staying Grounded28 Oct 202500:51:47

What do casting directors really look for in self-tapes, and how can actors actually book more of the new ā€œverticalā€ 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:šŸŽ¬ What casting directors wish actors knew about audition prepšŸ“± How the ā€œverticalā€ film world works (and why it’s a game-changer)⚔ The mistakes that make actors lose roles before callbacksšŸ’” Why professionalism and energy on set get you rehiredšŸ§˜ā€ā™€ļø How Cheryl stays centered through stress, hypnotherapy, and self-carešŸ’¬ 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.šŸ‘‰ Hit Subscribe for more conversations with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.šŸ‘‰ 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

Chad Darnell: From Casting to Acting — Owning Your Confidence & Doing the Work21 Oct 202501:02:02

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:šŸŽ¬ How Chad went from a stand-in to working on major films like Selma and Magic Mike XXLšŸ’Ŗ Why confidence — not permission — is the key to growth in HollywoodšŸŽ­ How to balance acting, casting, and directing without losing your identityāš–ļø What serving on a jury for a double-murder trial taught him about storytellingšŸŽ„ The lessons from Bright Hard, the first film under SAG-AFTRA’s interim agreement🧩 Why actors must do the work — not just ā€œwantā€ the careerThis conversation is packed with lessons on persistence, reinvention, and self-belief.šŸ‘‰ Hit Subscribe for weekly conversations with top agents, casting directors, and working actors.šŸ‘‰ Comment below: Which part of Chad’s story hit home for you most?

Brett Newton: How AI, Micro-Dramas & Fast Auditions Are Changing Acting Forever14 Oct 202500:57:30

What happens when an actor becomes a producer—and then helps pioneer an entirely new format of filmmaking?

In thisĀ Get Scene UnscriptedĀ episode, Jesse sits down withĀ Brett Newton — actor, producer, cinematographer, and creator ofĀ Rehearse Now AI — to talk about how vertical storytelling and artificial intelligence are reshaping the industry.

They dive into:
šŸŽ„ The rise ofĀ vertical micro-dramasĀ 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)
šŸ“± Why storytelling will always matter more than technology
šŸ’¬ What ā€œgrounded in over-the-topā€ acting really means

Bret has produced overĀ 4,000 demo reel scenesĀ and nearlyĀ 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.

šŸ‘‰ Subscribe for insider insights from actors, casting directors, and agents shaping the future of film and TV.
šŸ‘‰ Comment below:Ā Do you think AI is helping or hurting the industry?

Ā© My Podcast Data Ā· Independent project Ā· Data from Apple & Spotify