Explore every episode of the podcast Inside The Agency

It's the Spring Slowdown! Yes, it's quiet. Hang in there!

Try not to go stir crazy. Focus on being productive instead of getting in your head.

A reminder to make sure you let your agent rest after hours and on weekends.

Your agent can't do their best if they haven't had any rest. You want your agent to be on their game and not over exhausted, right? We all need some downtime and since COVID agents have lost any kind of personal time and space.

It's a wrap on personal tax season. Make sure you get all of your tax questions to your agent before the end of April. Learn about your payments, know your deals and get to know the business side of things. Yes, you are the artist but you should still understand your deal points, contracts and paystubs.

A little note on new covid protocols, fully vaccinated can be 3 vaccinations, not just two. Make sure to read your breakdowns, casting tends to make a note on what's required.

DON'T GIVE UP! It's a quieter time, which is always a challenge.

We got you.

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Tip of the Day: Don't give up!

It's spring time which is always a slower time for the industry. Don't get in your head, dont second guess your talent and DONT GIVE UP.

You got this.

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Happy new year! Wait its March, nope its April 1st.

This year has blown by but we managed to talk shop for a new episode for you all.

We talk headshots, seizing opportunities and the spring break lull.

It's the agency's 25th anniversary today! Happy anniversary Performers!

Lots of love

ITA

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Tip of the Day: It's the Holidays!

All agencies will be closed from December 17th till January 3rd, 2022.

Agencies will reopen on the 4th.

Please hold all communication till after the 4th, unless your team reaches out to you.

There can be the occasional audition or availability check over the break.

Any goals, wants and needs can wait until after the industry reopens.

Let's give your talent reps the gift of peace this season.

Have a wonderful holiday!

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Its the Holidays!

Give your talent reps the best gift, the gift of peace.

The industry and agencies will be closed from Dec 17th till January 3rd.

It's time for our long winters nap. Let me tell you, we need it!

Please hold any communication, texts, emails, phone calls etc till after the break. You agent will appreciate it.

Its been a crazy year and you should pat yourself on the back for getting through it.

Now sit back and relax and enjoy the holiday!

Now, if you are an actor that hustles rain or shine, holiday or no holiday, we have given you a couple of ideas to keep you occupied over the hiatus.

Keep in mind we recorded this episode a couple of weeks ago. Please hold off making a change or letting go of your agent/manager during this time.

We all need a great break to relax, recharge and rest.

We will back at it Jan 4th!

Have a wonderful holiday.

Michelle & Nicole

xo

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How are you all??

It's been a while.

We Aren't Dead!

What a shit show it's been. With the avoided IATSE strike, the delta variant and the harsh new protocols for filming, it's been a crazy time!

We thought 2020 was difficult to navigate, well 2021 has been a new kind of crazy!

We dive into the covid vaccination situation. The networks in the US are requiring an actor/crew member to be vaccinated.

Please know the rules in Canada are different. As of Oct 30th a new requirement was announced with an extension till Nov. 30th regarding vaccinations and travel within Canada.

Know your rights, and talk to your agent.

Be patient with your agent, be supportive, make sure to have your materials up to date and make your deadlines!

Try to give your agent a break on weekends, we need our rest!

Help us, help you during office hours unless it's an emergency.

We got you.

Let us know your questions. We promise to not go dark again.

ITA

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We decided to bring back the Tip of the Day. For some reason some actors are confused about what a deadline is, let us educate those of you.

Hopefully you get it now. Help us, help you get the job. We need you to make those deadlines.....

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ITA chats with the fabulous actor/acting coach Al Miro.

We chat about Al's journey from acting and training in NYC to acting and coaching in Canada.

We talk about visa applications, red tape with cross border bookings, and more.

Al talks about his FOMO for wanting to shoot on his birthday which inspired "How to make it in Hollywood, when you are foreign AF" to be born.

You can catch his episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/almirostudios

We chat about the old mold being broken down and how networks are really embracing and representing all nationalities.

We answer popular questions that Al hears on repeat while coaching.

@almirostudios

Tune in!

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We talk, we rant, we mic drop! Literally.

Why is everyone traveling? The rules are just lifting and travel is about to start in Canada.

Yes, the US is really opening up, and travel is happening. We have FOMO!

Let your agent know your away dates and try not to send last minute.

Hang in there, we know it's been a bit slower lately across North America. Hang tight. We should be in full swing by the middle of June.

Make your deadlines! Put your best work forward. We want you to have all possible opportunities and the best chance of booking. If you miss a deadline, casting may not watch your tape. They do a set deadline for a reason. Don't procrastinate or make excuses.

We are doing our job, do yours dammit! Don't miss any great opportunities.

Do you check your paystubs when you receive them from your agent?

Make sure you understand how you are paid, and what you were paid. Accountants are making a lot of errors these days.

Covid tests are no longer commissionable on SAG contracts. It is commissionable on Actra and UBCP agreements if it's part of your wardrobe or work day.

As of May 1st most Canadian covid tests are not commissionable, just for the test. The covid test rate has been reduced as well to $250.00. Keep that in mind. Its no longer a full principal day rate.

Are you on the same page as your agent? Make sure. We aren't mind readers! CONNECT.

Let's hope the Canadian quarantine ends soon in general or for the entertainment industry. We want to keep encouraging the US to come work in Canada.

READ YOUR NOTES

MAKE YOUR DEADLINES

Love your agent! We are working at warp speed with no down time.

Let's go for WIN WIN!

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You asked, we answered.

We talk about the spring slowdown. Yes, it is slower time of year. We are waiting for the episodics to get renewed and "picked up". If you are feeling the slower speed, hang on.

You have till June, take a deep breathe and take advantage of this slower time.

You asked:

-What is our day to day is like? Yes, we rant. It's our thing.

-When are actors being submitted?

-If your agent is managing a ton of people, can they forget about me?

-I booked a role a couple of months, I haven't seen many auditions since. Has my agent lost faith in me?

-I have seen the same casting director many times, obviously they like my work. Are they tired of seeing my face?

Some nuggets from this episode:

Stay in your lane. Focus on you. Don't attach happiness to just a booking. Enjoy the journey, not just the wins.

Watch your tapes before you send in to your agent. Make sure you send the right clips in for casting to view.

Stand out and make a bold choice and a neutral choice when self-taping. Make sure you slate is an intro to you and your personality.

Keep up that love 'n feelin with your team.

Stay positive, stay safe.

We are here for you.

Michelle & Nicole

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We are back to chat and rant.

We talk about being honest with your agent, how important it is to have a drivers licence and the 24th anniversary of Performers Management.

Happy 24th anniversary Performers!

Tune in!

Instagram

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Another Q & A with the fabulous Allison Riley

We kick off this episode catching up with Allison and discussing her leading role with Jon Hamm on "Corner Office".

We chat about confirming with your agent, taxes, covid payments, researching a new agent, social media, and self submitting.

Should you Zoom or self-tape when given the option from casting? What are the pros and cons?

We talk about what we love about being an agent, and what we are missing during this bizarre Covid time.

The common opinion, we are missing connection.

Find out how best to connect to your agent and keep that connection strong. Don't panic if you don't talk or email daily or weekly.

Find out what works personally for you and your team.

Till next time....

Michelle & Nicole

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We're back! Did you miss us?

Welcome to the 2021 shit show!

Know that we are essential, filming is essential, so you are essential.

This is an unprecedented time, but the industry is strong.

Be prepared to self-tape, be grateful for the opportunities, love your team and get ready to work.

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Happy Holidays!

What a year!

Coming to you from ITA we bring you "Twas the night before Christmas...with a twist!

We want to thank you for listening to us banter for the last few months.

It's time for the our cherished 'long winters nap'!

Looking forward to filling your ears with witty entertainment/agency banter in 2021....

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Tip of the Day: Actors, Do You Know What You Are Taking About?

Our last tip of the day before the holidays! Actors, if you hear about a project do your due diligence before reaching out to your agent.

Don't send an email with a vague description to your agent and expect them to hunt down some "project that may or may not exist".

We are always happy to push for a legitimate and well suited role. Before you approach your agent about a project or role, know what you are talking about.

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For some reason this won't just unschedule so I've set it to publish in 2027. Cause I didn't want to delete it and lose the artwork/subscription.

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BONUS episode! Everyone loves a bonus!

We bring you ITA's Q&A with Allison Riley.

We cover questions about the current climate of the industry, when to apply for a sales tax number, when to incorporate, is it still a good time to apply to an agency and more.

We wrap this episode and season 2 of the podcast with a note to "be kind to your agent", especially if they are kick ass!

Allison Riley hosts and handles the questions you have been asking. Thank god for her humour to make this episode full of laughs.

It's a wrap for Season II.

Tune in!

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Tip of the Day: Confirm Your Auditions ASAP

Please confirm with your agent ASAP.

Work on an alert for your emails from your agent.

We don't rest until our clients confirm every self tape, audition and zoom call.

CONFIRM ASAP (Did we say ASAP enough???)

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Today we chat with Artist2Artist Creator and actor Kurt Evans.

We talk about how the industry has changed and the need to adapt. This is how Artist2Artist was born. Artist2Artist is a platform to introduce developmental actors to casting and agents. We are now on the list...

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More on Artist2Artist

More about Kurt

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Tip of the Day: What Are Your Special Skills

Casting is using the search engines on the casting profiles to see what you can do. List your skills!

There are certain roles that require special skills. Make sure to take advantage of your abilities and get noticed for it.

Only list what you really can do, and well.

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We are bringing some Inside Info to you!

How and when to apply to an agency whether you are a new or experienced actor.

Make sure to take care of your profiles and IMDB when shifting to a new agency.

Advice about actors that need to "plan" or have "goal" meetings.

Do you need more than one rep in Canada or in general? LA manager discussion....

Getting dropped by an agent and taking it as positive change.

Why did you not get a role? Don't take it personally and don't doubt your good work.

Take all of the great opportunities that come your way before the holiday break approaching.

If you are planning on going away for the holidays, bring your self-taping gear!

A quick tip about block shooting.

Tune in to Inside Info!

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Tip of the Day: Do You have a Demo and is it on Your Casting Profiles?

If you have great footage to create a demo or a sizzle reel, please get one done. Casting is constantly asking for an updated demo these days. If you don't have strong demo footage, please don't stress. If you have strong self-tapes, you can create a short demo with a few shortened self-tapes. Casting also loves a good slate on your actors access account. If you don't have one, get one done. Make sure it matches the headshot with great lighting and clarity.

TIP OF THE DAY

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ITA chats with writer, actor mom, and parent consultant Bonnie Wallace. Bonnie is mom to well known actress Dove Cameron. She takes us through the process of their journey to Hollywood, advice to parents/actors and her consultant company Hometown to Hollywood. She is a known writer of "The Hollywood Parent's Guide", "Young Hollywood Actors", and "Top Hollywood Acting Teachers".

Bonnie's advice is valuable to any parent to a child actor or to young actors in general.

Website    

Instagram  

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Tip of the Day: How best to interview with an agent.

Congrats, you got an interview with an agent - so now is the time to show up excited!

Come prepared, be ready and be on time.

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ITA brings you the latest Rant: It is Christmas Yet?

We chat about the holidays approaching and how not to miss out on auditions while traveling. How best to interview with an agent and staying positive and productive during this time. When is it time to join the union?

We laugh, we swear and share our latest thoughts.

Tune in!

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Tip of the Day: Know Your Triggers

It's important for actors to try to heal any pain or blocks from your past.

Yes, we all know acting requires reference but its best to not use past pain. Acting is all about "playing" a character, not to emotionally damage yourself...

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We catch up with the union rep Kori DePauw.

We talk about 'our' start since she used to be my assistant before her move to UBCP as an on set representative.

Kori chats about current set protocols, what to expect when shooting, and how the union can help.

We share some laughs. You are missed KK!

Tune in!

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Tip of the day: Are Your Profiles Up to Date?

Actors make sure to update your online profiles regularly.

Years ago agents handled updates but now the sites are meant to be used by the actor as well.

Keep all of your accounts updated with your latest and greatest materials.

It's not just your demo, headshot and resume, make sure your stats, age range, and special skills are listed.

Get used to navigating the sites as well.

A great profile gets noticed. Get noticed!

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Inside the Agency chats with actress Danielle Panabaker from the hit CW series Flash. 

Danielle talks about her start as a child actor, working on your craft, the importance of a supportive team and her advice to actors.

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Tip of the Day: Keep Your Agent Informed

Are you going away, taking a hiatus, changing your address and or hair colour? Are you debating about incorporating or becoming union?

Most decisions an agent should be a part of or at least informed. Keep us in the loop.

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Inside the Agency had the pleasure to chat with well known NYC acting coach Terry Knickerbocker.

Terry teaches Meisner out of the Terry Knickerbocker Studio in Brooklyn, NYC.

He has coached some of the best, Emmy Rossum, Sam Rockwell Josh Charles, Natasha Lyonne, Leslie Bibb, and Abbie Cornish to name a few.

We chat about his background, his studio which is now online and his advice to actors.

His studio's motto is "training the passionate actor, committed to excellence".

Be clear about your goals and what you are you trying to create.

Terry Knickerbocker

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Tip of the Day: Keep Your Focus

We are all working harder than ever. Actors are taping more self-tapes and agents are working long hours to produce opportunities.

Keep up the good work, the long hours and stay positive mindset. Sooner or later the hard work will pay off.

Keep your focus and stay positive. Keep your eye on the prize.

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ITA chats with casting director Ann Forry

We talk about her evolution from talent, to an agent, to a well known casting director. Ann has cast in cities such as Vancouver, Los Angeles, NYC and London.

Ann has worn many hats including directing her feature "Shall we Play" and multiple short films.

How to impress Ann? Be confident, be prepared and get your divers license! Watch your redirects and your accents!

Life is not a dress rehearsal...

Tune in!

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Tip of the Day: Watch how you Slate.

Casting is seeing your slate as your introduction. Make sure you put your best foot forward.

Try not to slate in character, this is how you are presenting yourself since there are no in room auditions.

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Inside the Agency chats with actor/coach Laura Mac from The Laura Mac Method.

We discuss ways for actors to be productive during down time, how to focus on what you can control with the ups and downs of the industry and some of her top acting tips and tricks.

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Tip of the Day: Get Ready to Zoom...

Casting is using Zoom as the new platform for auditions, callbacks and chemistry reads.

When you are sent a Zoom link, check it. You can check that the link works in advance.

Is your Zoom username your stage name? If not, change it. Casting will be looking for the "actor" you!

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Inside the Agency Vent!

There is strong language used in this podcast.

In this episode we talk about everything from how you can support your agent during this busy time of self-tapes, making sure you're reading your notes properly and how to leave an agent gracefully.

We also talk about finding your "bubble" and not losing out on opportunities during this time.

Instagram

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Tip of the Day: Deadlines...

In the era of self tapes deadlines are so important. Do you fully understand what the term "deadline" means?

Getting your tapes in late to your agent is missed opportunities, be sure you read your notes properly and make your deadlines.

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ITA connects with commercial casting director Kathleen Mayrs.

Kathleen chats about her start in the industry and advice for commercial castings.

We chat about the difference between commercial and T.V. training and laugh about the new normal.

We are celebrating that filming is back and embracing the quantity of self-tapes!

"Listen, listen, listen".

Tune in!

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Tip of the Day: Do You have Questions about your Audition or Self-tape?

Is it after hours or the weekend? Try to respect office hours. Check in the notes, has the question already been answered?

Ask questions when you receive the audition, not right before the deadline. Is it a weekend? Hold that thought or email if necessary.

Do you get bombarded by emails and texts on your time off? Imagine how little time your team gets to rest.

Be considerate after hours and be better with time management. It's a win win for everyone.

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ITA chats with well known actress Serinda Swan.

We go way back! We talk about our hilarious start and how she was the catalyst to the restart of the agency a decade ago,

You may know Serinda from her leading roles on HBO 'Baller's, USA's 'Graceland', 'Breakout Kings', CW's 'Coroner' and more.

She talks about her life as actresses' daughter, model, actor and philanthropist.

She gives fabulous insight on her experiences and advice to not let your power be affected by the ups and downs of the industry.

This is a great episode for all but for the actresses listening, this is especially fabulous for you!

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Tip of the Day: How Best to Apply to a Talent Agency

Make sure you stand out. When you apply to agency always include a demo, class work or a few self-tapes.

We need to see your talent, not just a headshot, resume and a cover letter.

Get with the times, great creative and stand out.

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Welcome to our first Q&A with Inside the Agency.

You asked, we answered.

Ayla Wren is helping us out with this episode to ask the BIG questions.

How to submit to an agency?

Agent pet peeves?

Do you need a demo to apply to an agency?

How often should an actor check in with their agent?

How many actors are on the roster?

What are our thoughts on actor's writing and producing their own content?

My kids want to be actors, will they lose the fun of being kids if they start acting?

Where can I send my kids to train?

What is our opinion on TikTok and You Tube, should I tell my agent if I am on these platforms?

BONUS QUESTIONS:

How do I become an agent?

If I have an agent, can I submit to student films on my own?

I want to change my hair colour, should I tell my agent?

Let's end on tanning. Wear sunscreen!

We take these questions and run with them.....Tune in!

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Tip of the Day: Do you Have a Bubble?

Let your agent know about the people you have in your bubble.

Casting is asking for actors to audition with best friends, family and mates to work together on shoots.

Let us know what your bubble looks like. Send your agent photos, names and ages. The more we have to work with, the better.

What does your bubble look like? Let your agent know.

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ITA chats with digital agent Jade Sherman from A3 in Los Angeles.

Jade gives us advice on digital branding and positioning, how best to promote yourself and what not to do.

Tune in to get great insight on what helps you with your digital platforms and what a digital agent can do for you.

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Tip of the Day: What are Your Away Dates this Summer?

Are you going away? Let your agent know of any N/A dates.

Agents expect their actors to be 100% available unless told otherwise.

It's getting busy! Casting is gearing up for the US network shows as well as casting MOW's.

If you are traveling, always have your filming equipment with you to self-tape.

With auditions being zoom calls or self tapes, there is no reason not to audition while traveling.

Well, unless you are camping in the woods without wifi. Technically your cell can record and make that self tape happen.

Don't miss an opportunity! Create ways to stay in the game, even when away!

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Inside the agency chats with well known writer & director Christie Will Wolf.

We talk about her pivot from acting into her successful writing and directing career.

We chat about her hustle in Hollywood, her new set protocols, advice to actors and how you can be a mom and have it all.

Instagram

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Tip of the Day: Are you Prepared?

Are you ready for an audition? Did you research the show? The tone? What are your character's notes from your agent? Do you need coaching?

Get prepared and be ready for that next audition/self tape!

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ITA catches up with Los Angeles based talent agent Pamela Fisher from A3, formally Abrams Artists Agency.

We chat about her journey becoming a talent agent and scout after her time as a young actor in New York.

We covered what makes you stand out as a young star, advice on selecting your team, and suggestions on learning the ropes in the industry for parents of young actors.

Pamela works with highly successful young actors: Dove Cameron, Jordan Fisher, and our very own Anna Cathcart, to name a few.

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Tip of the Day: Do you know your agent's office hours?

It's important to know your agent's hours and how best to reach them.

We do need our beauty rest on weekends and after hours.

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ITA catches up with actor Steve Bacic. We chat about his successful career, his advice to actors, his directing debut and more.

Steve has worked with some of the greats: Anthony Hopkins, Bill Paxton, Dennis Hopper, Richard Dreyfuss, Jason Alexander, Ray Liotta, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Anna Gunn to name a few.

Steve Bacic

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