Two Unemployed Actors
What actually happens behind the scenes. Follow Max on his journey through auditions and projects across Commercials, Theatre, Voice Overs, TV, and Film.
What Really Happens During Intimate Scenes on Film Sets? | Ep 111 ft. Michela Carattini
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What actually happens on film sets when the Director calls for a closed set and performers must navigate intense vulnerability?
In Episode 111 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte explores the rapidly evolving world of intimacy coordination with guest Michela Carattini. Michela is a SAG-AFTRA accredited intimacy coordinator, filmmaker, Actor, and founder of Key Intimate Scenes.
Drawing from her acting roots and directorial work on the indie feature Carmen & Bolude, Michela delivers an empowering perspective on how production safety has transformed. She explains how coordination becam...
The Biggest Audition Mistakes Actors Make & How to Fix Them with Peter Rasmussen| Ep 110
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In Episode 110 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte sits down with renowned Australian Casting Director and Acting Coach Peter Rasmussen. Successfully wearing both industry hats, Peter offers a uniquely powerful perspective on the exact moment an Actor's training meets the raw reality of the casting room.
In this deeply authentic conversation, Peter opens up about his personal transition from Actor to Casting Director, sharing the brave choices he made regarding his own mental health that ultimately led him to find his true passion behind the camera and in th...
Greg Apps: The Secret to Audition Success | Two Unemployed Actors Ep 109
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Two Unemployed Actors | Episode 109: Greg Apps
Welcome back to another episode of Two Unemployed Actors. In Episode 109, we are diving deep into the psychology of the casting room with one of the industry's most respected voices: Greg Apps. With over 80 films and countless television hours under his belt, Greg has seen it all—and he’s here to tell you why your "best" acting might actually be what's standing in the way of your next big role.
Greg is the mastermind behind "The...
The Future of Acting: Michelle Danner on AI, Casting, and Directing A-Listers - Ep 108
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🎬 How do you balance coaching A-list stars like Gerard Butler and Salma Hayek while directing Hollywood blockbusters?
In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte sits down with industry powerhouse Michelle Danner. With over 30 years of experience, Michelle is a renowned acting coach, director, and producer who is currently shaping the future of cinema.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: What it was like shooting Miranda’s Victim during a global pandemic with icons like Donald Sutherland, Andy Garcia, Abigail Br...
How to Stand Out to Casting Directors: Self-Tape Secrets & Tips from Helene Rousse - Ep 107
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In Episode 107 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte is joined by the legendary Helene Rousse, a Montreal-based Casting Director with an impressive 35-year tenure in the entertainment business. This conversation is an absolute goldmine for emerging Actors looking to understand the mechanics of the international market and the shifting digital landscape.
Helene provides a fascinating update on the Canadian industry, but the real showstopper is the discussion on "Verticals." These short-form series, designed for platforms like TikTok, are exploding in popularity. Helene explains why actors should embrace this f...
Stop Being "Honest" and Start Winning: Ivana Chubbuck’s 12-Step Acting Technique - Ep 106
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Ivana Chubbuck: The Secret Behind Hollywood’s Greatest Performances 🎭✨
In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, we are joined by the legendary Ivana Chubbuck—founder of the Ivana Chubbuck Studio and the visionary creator of the world-renowned Chubbuck Technique.
Ivana has coached some of the most iconic actors in history, including Halle Berry, Charlize Theron, Brad Pitt, Jake Gyllenhaal, and many more. Today, she shares her deep insights into the craft of acting, her 12-step technique, and her newly updated book, The Power of the Actor.
Whether y...
Why I Changed My Acting Agent & How to Audit Your Creative Career - Ep 105
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Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors. After a brief hiatus, Max Belmonte returns to provide a transparent look at the modern "slasher" lifestyle within the Australian screen industry. This episode serves as both a personal update and a strategic guide for any creative artist navigating the delicate balance between commercial work and passion projects. Max dives deep into the necessity of a regular career audit, ensuring your daily grind aligns with your ultimate goals.
A major focus this week is the strategic evolution of Max’s television project, Paradise Pal...
"Survive to '25": The Truth About the Current State of the Australian Screen Industry - Ep 104
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In this episode of the Two Unemployed Actors podcast, Max Belmonte sits down with Matthew Deaner, the CEO of Screen Producers Australia (SPA), to unpack the current complexities and future opportunities within the Australian screen industry. This conversation is essential listening for anyone navigating the path from creative to producer, as it provides a rare, high-level perspective on the industrial and regulatory frameworks that shape the stories we see on screen.
Matthew explains the vital role SPA plays as a collective business association, acting as the "glue" b...
The Voiceover Masterclass: LA Casting Secrets with Andy Roth Ep103
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In Episode 103 of "Two Unemployed Actors," host Max Belmonte welcomes award-winning producer, Voice Casting Director, and educator Andy Roth for an extensive deep dive into the evolving landscape of the voiceover industry. Andy shares his professional journey, which began at Samuel French before he transitioned into a role as an assistant at a major talent agency’s voiceover department. It was here that he recognized voiceover as a distinct, massive ecosystem, eventually leading him to become an in-house booth director where he mastered the art of guiding vocal performances.
A r...
Making a Feature Doc: The Journey from Concept to Roadshow with Jye Currie - Ep 102
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Inside the Making of The Promise with Jye Currie
In this compelling episode of Two Unemployed Actors, the conversation dives deep into the high-stakes world of documentary filmmaking with Jye Currie. As the visionary director and producer behind the AACTA-nominated film The Promise, Jye shares the profound journey of capturing Craig Hamilton’s mental health experience. Beyond the narrative of a single man, the film serves as a vital exploration of suicide prevention and the urgent need for expanded resources within the Australian healthcare system.
Jye...
How Daniel Craig & Austin Butler Prepare: Acting Secrets from Terry Knickerbocker - Ep 101
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Ever wonder what separates a "hit or miss" actor from a consistent A-list professional? In this masterclass episode, Max Belmonte sits down with legendary New York acting coach Terry Knickerbocker to deconstruct the training behind stars like Daniel Craig, Austin Butler, and Sam Rockwell.
Terry reveals the "GPS" for acting consistency, the "Full Body Yes" mindset for career longevity, and the incredible story of how Denzel Washington personally vouched for Austin Butler to land the role of Elvis. Whether you're an...
From 20 Years in Corporate to Producing TV: 100 Episodes of Lessons Learned
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Episode 100: Reflections, Resilience, and the Road Ahead
Welcome to a massive milestone: Episode 100 of Two Unemployed Actors!
It’s been a long, overdue, but incredibly rewarding journey since we launched back in 2019. In this special anniversary episode, I take a moment to look back at the chaotic, challenging, and inspiring path that led us here—from the early days of navigating Agents and Showreels to the exciting new horizon of television production.
Reflecting on the transition from a 20-year corporate career to the...
How to Stop Being a 'Struggling Actor' with Anthony Meindl – Ep 99
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Are you feeling stuck in your creative journey or corporate career? In Episode 99 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max sits down with the legendary Anthony Meindl—award-winning writer, director, and founder of Anthony Meindl's Actor Workshop (AMAW).
With 25 years of experience coaching actors globally, Anthony shares profound insights from his latest book, Unstuck. This episode dives deep into why we get in our own way, how to redefine success beyond the next booking, and why the secret to great acting (and living) is removing blocks rather than adding more skills.
Wh...
Working with Sam Neill & Marta Dusseldorp: Set Lessons from Damien Strouthos - Ep 98
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Welcome back to another insightful instalment of the Two Unemployed Actors podcast.
In Episode 98, your host Max Belmonte sits down with the incredibly talented and versatile Damien Strouthos. This conversation is a deep dive into the nuanced craft of Acting, offering listeners a rare look at how a professional performer approaches their work with both discipline and creative freedom. It is an exploration of the relentless dedication required to thrive.
The heart of this episode focuses on the intricate art of character study. Damien shares his personal process for br...
How Improv Changes Your Shakespeare: Harriet Gordon-Anderson’s Acting Secret - Ep 97
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In Episode 97 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte welcomes the incredibly talented Harriet Gordon-Anderson. With a career spanning television, film, and theatre, Harriet brings a wealth of insight into the resilience required to thrive in the Australian screen and stage industry. The heart of this conversation centres on her monumental three-year journey playing the title role in Bell Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Harriet opens up about the emotional toll of the pandemic, describing the heartbreak of seeing the production go dark multiple times before finally completing a full national tour. She discusses how th...
Shane Withington: Secrets to a 40-Year Career & Surviving Home and Away - Ep 96
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Episode 96: Shane Withington — 40 Years of Success & The Summer Bay University
In this compelling episode of Two Unemployed Actors, the host sits down with one of Australia’s most enduring and respected screen icons, Shane Withington. With a professional career spanning over four decades, Shane brings a wealth of knowledge and a refreshingly grounded perspective on what it truly takes to sustain a life in the performing arts. Best known for his legendary portrayal of Brendan Mercy in A Country Practice and his current fourteen-year run as th...
Working with Peter Jackson & Jane Campion: Miranda Harcourt Interview - Ep 95
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🎬 Unlock the Secrets of World-Class Performance with Miranda Harcourt
Ever wondered how stars like Nicole Kidman deliver such breathtaking, authentic performances? In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, we go behind the scenes with legendary acting coach Miranda Harcourt.
Miranda has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and collaborated with visionary directors like Jane Campion, Peter Jackson, and Taika Waititi. In this masterclass of a conversation, she reveals the exact techniques used to build instant chemistry on set, the importance of active listening, and how...
Mastering the American Accent with Dialect Coach Paige Walker - Ep 94
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In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte is joined by the highly sought-after dialect coach Paige Walker. With a professional history spanning from New York to Sydney, Paige brings a wealth of experience to the table, having recently worked on the major Netflix production Pieces of Her. As the industry becomes increasingly global, the ability to deliver a flawless American accent is no longer just a "bonus" skill; it has become an essential requirement for Australian actors looking to secure roles on both domestic and international stages.
Paige...
Inside 'The Drover's Wife' Q&A and Why 'The Offer' is a Producing Masterclass | Ep 93
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Welcome back to another generous glass of red wine and a few inevitable technical hurdles in Episode 93 of Two Unemployed Actors.
It is a classic Friday afternoon, and Max and Sam are celebrating the long-awaited return of "real-life" industry events in person. Max recounts his inspiring evening at a special screening and Q&A for The Drover’s Wife, written, directed by, and starring the formidable Leah Purcell. They explore the fascinating journey of this specific passion project from its successful stage beginnings to the silver screen, pro...
The Reality of Writing Australian TV: From Blue Healers to Pitching with Chris Corbett Ep 92
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Episode 92: Writing for Actors with Chris Corbett
In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, Max and Sam sit down with a true titan of the Australian screen industry, Chris Corbett. With over fifty hours of television writing under his belt—including credits on iconic staples like Blue Healers, All Saints, Neighbours, and Halifax—Chris brings a wealth of "jobbing writer" experience to the table. He isn't just a writer; he is a former actor and an educator who offers a refreshingly "no bullshit" persp...
Acting vs. Survival Jobs: Why Your Passion Shouldn’t Have to Pay the Bills Ep 91
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Welcome back to Episode 91 of Two Unemployed Actors. In this week's instalment, Max and Sam reunite to discuss the ever-evolving challenge of balancing the artistic soul with the practical demands of adult life. The episode kicks off with Sam sharing his recent life transitions, including moving out and settling into a consistent survival job within the hospitality sector. Influenced by Elizabeth Gilbert’s perspective on creativity, Sam explores the importance of not burdening your art with the heavy responsibility of paying the bills, allowing the craft to remain a space of pu...
The Truth About Film vs TV Sets: Jordana Beatty's Industry Insights - Ep 90
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Ever wondered what happens after the 'Not Bummer Summer'? ☀️ In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, we sit down with Jordana Beatty (Judy Moody herself!) to discuss her incredible journey from an 8-year-old breakout star to a seasoned professional in the industry.
We dive deep into how her craft has evolved, the stark differences between high-pressure TV schedules and film sets, and the reality of navigating the acting world during a global pandemic. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a fan of her work, Jordana’s insights on being prepare...
Stop Guessing! The Complete Self Tape Guide for Modern Actors | Ep 89
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Episode 104: Master the Art of Self-Taping
Welcome back to another instalment of Two Unemployed Actors! In this episode, Max and Sam bridge the gap between technical savvy and artistic performance as they dive deep into the world of self-taping. As the industry shifts further away from traditional "in-the-room" auditions, mastering your digital presentation is no longer optional—it is essential for every working actor.
Max kicks things off with highlights from his recent trip to Los Angeles for the Podcast Move...
How To Get An Agent with Mark Morrissey (Chris Hemsworth's Manager) | Ep 88
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In this episode, Max sits down with a titan of the Australian entertainment industry, Mark Morrissey. As the founder and managing director of Morrissey Management, Mark has spent over 40 years managing top-tier talent, including the likes of Chris Hemsworth.
Whether you are a recent drama school graduate or an actor returning to the industry, Mark provides invaluable "no-nonsense" advice on what it takes to get (and keep) high-level representation. We dive deep into the reality of the actor-agent partnership, the shift toward self-testing, and the crucial timing...
The #1 Mistake Actors Make in Comedy | Darren Gilshenan Interview - Ep 87
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Episode 87: The Commerce of Comedy with Darren Gilshenan
Hosts Max and Sam welcome the incredibly versatile and award-winning actor Darren Gilshenan. With a career that spans over two decades and includes iconic roles in No Activity, Harrow, and Upright, he brings a wealth of technical knowledge and professional wisdom to the table. This conversation is a must-watch for any actor seeking to deepen their understanding of the craft through the lens of a true industry veteran.
Darren meticulously breaks down his unique processes for character c...
Acting Horror Stories: Student Film Nightmares & Set Fails | Two Unemployed Actors Ep. 86
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Episode 86: A Lot Can Go Wrong on Set
Ever wondered what happens when a professional film set turns into a complete circus? In Episode 86 of Two Unemployed Actors, hosts Max Belmonte and Sam Folden pull back the curtain on the industry's dark side, sharing a collection of the absolute worst on-set experiences imaginable. This episode isn't just about minor flubs; it’s about the high-stakes, unhinged, and occasionally dangerous moments that make you question why we do this in the first place.
Max kicks things off...
How to Master Your Next Audition: Insider Secrets with Casting Director Anousha Zarkesh Ep 85
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In Episode 85 of the Two Unemployed Actors podcast, hosts Max and Sam welcome veteran Australian casting director Anousha Zarkesh. With over twenty-five years of experience across film, television, and commercials, Anousha provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the casting process. She discusses her early involvement in projects, often starting at the development stage to attach key talent that secures financing. Anousha shares her moving experience casting the First Nations feature film High Ground, highlighting the importance of authentic representation and the challenges of casting non-professional performers in remote communities.
...
Action Design & Podcast Evolution: What’s Next for Two Unemployed Actors - Ep 84
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Episode 84: Scripting the Future and the Art of Action
Welcome back to another instalment of Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 84, Max and Sam take a moment to breathe after a whirlwind of interviews with some of the industry’s heavy hitters. This week is all about turning that external inspiration into internal momentum as the boys discuss the tangible progress they are making on their own creative "passion projects."
Max kicks things off with a major milestone: the completion of his first television script draft. Insp...
Directing Extraction: Sam Hargrave on Chris Hemsworth, Marvel Stunts, and the Art of Action - Ep 83
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Welcome back to another episode of Two Unemployed Actors. I'm Max Belmonte, and today we have an incredible guest who has truly redefined action cinema. Joining us is Sam Hargrave, the visionary director behind the hit film Extraction and its highly anticipated sequel. Sam’s journey is one of the most fascinating in Hollywood, evolving from a dedicated stunt performer into a world-class director at the helm of massive global franchises.
In this conversation, we pull back the curtain on the grit required to succeed in the high-stakes world of stunts. Sam...
The Secret to Going Viral & Pitching to Networks with Christiaan Van Vuuren Ep 82
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In Episode 82 of Two Unemployed Actors, hosts Max and Sam welcome the quintessential Australian "slashie," Christiaan Van Vuuren. Known globally as one-half of the viral sensation Bondi Hipsters, Christiaan’s journey from a hospital bed to major network deals is a masterclass in creative resilience and strategic thinking.
The conversation kicks off with the unexpected origins of Dom and Adrian. Christiaan reveals how a simple 60-second competition entry evolved into 53 weeks of consistent content, proving that momentum is the greatest asset for any emerging creator. He doesn't shy away fro...
What Are Actors Watching? Our TV Binge List & Key Takeaways Ep81
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Welcome to Episode 81 of Two Unemployed Actors! As we emerge from the constraints of lockdown, hosts Max Belmonte and Sam Folden explore a fundamental question for any performer: what are we watching, and more importantly, what can we learn from it? This week, the duo dives into an extensive binge list, offering a unique "actor’s takeout" on some of the biggest hits available for streaming.
The conversation kicks off with Sam’s obsession with Manifest, exploring its high-concept premise and ensemble dynamics. Max then breaks down the gritty reali...
The Business of Acting: Navigating Castings, Pitching, and Side Hustles Ep 80
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Welcome back to Episode 80 of Two Unemployed Actors! As we step into 2022, Max and Sam reflect on the strange journey of surviving the pandemic while keeping their creative careers alive. In this milestone episode, the guys discuss the reality of being "between projects" during a global crisis and how they pivoted to maintain their momentum.
Max shares his deep dive into screenwriting, revealing his progress on a comedy television series. He breaks down the essential differences between a creative producer and a business producer, offering valuable insights into the i...
Solo Lockdown: Bizarre Brand Requests and Growth Experiments - Ep 79
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In Episode 79 of Two Unemployed Actors, Max flies solo while Sam is mid-move, navigating the "between projects" reality from a strictly locked-down New South Wales. This episode pulls back the curtain on the oddities of the professional world and the mindset shifts required to level up your career.
The Hardware Mystery
The episode kicks off with a bizarre story involving a major national brand. Despite producing high-quality DIY content for them months prior, Max received a sudden request to pull the videos from his own...
Getting Paid in Wine & The Hustle of Low-Budget Commercials Ep 78
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Welcome back to another episode of Two Unemployed Actors, where Max and Sam dive deep into the highs, lows, and hilarious absurdities of the Australian screen industry. This week, Max recounts a whirlwind schedule that saw him jumping from playing a troubled father in a rural short film to recording voiceovers for a wine company. Along the way, he navigates the tricky waters of low budget commercial sets and finds himself fighting the urge to let the Corporate Max persona take over during negotiations. It is a relatable look at the balancing act...
Self-Tape Setups, Agent Advice, and Why You Need to Keep Grinding Ep 77
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Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 77, Max and Sam dive into the reality of staying "work-fit" in an industry that feels like feast or famine. If you’ve wondered why some Actors seem perpetually busy, this episode reveals the secret: there are no shortcuts. It is about the consistent grind, practicing monologues, and ensuring materials are always ready. Join us as we explore the essential habits that keep your career moving forward, even when projects are thin on the ground.
The Digital Presence and Agent Advice<...
Teleprompters & Tantrums: The Ultimate On-Set Disaster Ep 76
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Episode 76: Trusting Your Gut and Avoiding "The Muppet Agency"
In this seventy-sixth instalment of Two Unemployed Actors, Sam and Max return with a cautionary tale about the high cost of ignoring your intuition. If there is one recurring theme in the entertainment industry, it is that red flags are usually waving for a reason. Max recounts a recent string of professional disasters that began the moment he decided to ignore the very advice the duo shared in their previous episode. What follows is a hilarious, frustrating, and...
Spotting Scams & Setting Boundaries: A Working Actor's Guide Ep 75
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Welcome back to Episode 75 of Two Unemployed Actors! This week, Max and Sam explore the highs and lows of the industry, starting with a surreal victory: Max managed to book two separate professional gigs while simply standing in line for his vaccination. It is absolute proof that the hustle never stops, even when you are waiting for a jab.
However, the episode takes a serious turn as the guys dissect a disturbing "casting" message Max received via StarNow. From creepy requests for 'hotel room headshots' to blatant red flags, th...
From Auditions to Screenwriting: Why Actors Should Create Their Own Content | Ep 74
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Welcome back to Two Unemployed Actors! In Episode 74, Max and Sam dive deep into the evolving landscape of the industry, proving that being "between projects" is never actually a quiet time. We kick things off with some surprisingly blunt skincare advice Max received while in the makeup chair, turns out, soap isn't a routine!
The main focus of the week is Max’s recent breakthrough with LinkedIn’s "Creator Mode." We’ve always said actors shouldn't sleep on LinkedIn, and Max explains how shifting his profile toward original content over tr...
Inside George Miller's Storytelling Secrets & The Perfect Vocal Warmup | Ep 73
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Welcome back to Episode 73 of Two Unemployed Actors! After a brief hiatus, Max Belmonte and Sam Folden return to dive deep into the essential tools every performer needs in their professional arsenal. This week, the conversation begins with the absolute foundation of any performance: the voice. Max shares his quick-fire vocal warm-up techniques for those urgent voiceover sessions and last-minute corporate shoots, while Sam brings his extensive musical theatre expertise to the table. They debunk a common industry myth, explaining why whispering is actually one of the most damaging things you can do...
The Power of Silence in Interviews & Nailing Your American Accent | Ep 72
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Welcome back to Episode 72 of Two Unemployed Actors. This week, Max and Sam dive into the essential hustle of staying productive between projects and how to turn "strong maybes" into career momentum.
Max opens with a significant update regarding his audition for the local Australian play, "Spooks," celebrating a successful callback that puts him back in the theatre atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sam discusses a recent opportunity for a genre feature film concept trailer found via StarNow, which could potentially lead to a lead role. The duo also touches on the r...
