Colombian writer-director Jose Antonio Negret first made waves when his debut film TOWARDS DARKNESS premiered in competition at the Tribeca Film Festival. It starred America Ferrera, and was distributed by MGM. Negret was subsequently named by The Hollywood Reporter as one of their "Top 10 Latino Directors to Watch.' His follow-up was SECONDS APART, a supernatural thriller released by Lionsgate, which was followed by the action film TRANSIT, produced by Joel Silver and Dark Castle Entertainment. Most recently, Negret directed the car heist action/thriller OVERDRIVE starring Scott Eastwood and Ana de Armas (released by Paramount and produced by TAKEN helmer Pierre Morel).
In addition to his feature film accomplishments, Negret is also a highly in-demand television director. An alumni of the Warner Brothers' Directing Workshop, Negret has directed episodes for series such as THE LINCOLN LAWYER (Netflix), HIGHTOWN (Starz), CHILLING ADVENTURES OF SABRINA (Netflix), PRODIGAL SON (Fox), NATIONAL TREASURE (Disney+), RIVERDALE (CW), MAGNUM PI (CBS), THE 100 (CW), SUPERGIRL (CW), LETHAL WEAPON (Fox), ONCE UPON A TIME (ABC), THE FLASH (CW), SCORPION (CBS), LA'S FINEST (Spectrum), MACGYVER (CBS), FOREVER (ABC), ARROW (CW), and JUST BEYOND (Disney +).
Synopsis of SHAMAN - A missionary family travels to rural Ecuador to convert the indigenous population. All is going well until their son ventures into a forbidden local cave and comes back with a demonic spirit in tow. Candice (Sarah Canning) believes that an exorcism in the Catholic tradition will free her boy from the evil bonds that bind him. The local shamans know that this spirit is older than her religion and must be dealt with or the demon will take them all.
Guest:
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
TRIBECA: Tim Blake Nelson, Andrew Liner and Vincent Grashaw for "BANG BANG"
Adam Finberg's STAR PEOPLE starring actor and recording artist Kat Cunning (The Deuce, On Swift Horses), McCabe Slye (Destroyer, Fear Street Trilogy), Connor Paolo ( The Last Stop in Yuma County, Revenge, Gossip Girl), Eddie Martinez (The Sinner, Night Swim), Bradley Fisher (Westworld), and Adriana Aluna Martinez (Duster) will open in theaters July 25, with a VOD release to follow nationwide on all major platforms on August 12.
Synopsis of STAR PEOPLE - On March 13, 1997, thousands of people in Arizona witnessed the largest mass UFO sighting in U.S. history—now famously known as The Phoenix Lights. Among them was 10-year-old Claire, who felt as if the lights called to her. Years later, Claire (Kat Cunning), now a photographer, is still chasing that moment, hoping to capture the lights on camera and finally make sense of what she saw.
When a mysterious tip leads her deep into the Arizona desert during a deadly heatwave with her UFO streamer boyfriend (Connor Paolo) and troubled brother (McCabe Slye) in tow,they encounter a vulnerable immigrant family whose plight complicates her mission. As tensions rise, Claire searches for the answers she seeks on terra firma and among the stars.
KAT CUNNING (CLAIRE) is a true multi-hyphenate—actor, writer, singer, songwriter, and director—whose range spans Broadway, immersive theater, film and television. They are known most recently for the role of Gail in ON SWIFT HORSES, (Jacob Elordi, Daisy Edgar Jones), Reina Rein in Rapsh!t (Issa Rae), and the Netflix hits, Purple Hearts (Nicholas Galitizine), and Trinkets. Cunning credits The Deuce (James Franco, Maggie Gyllenhaal) as their break-out role on screen, but their performance career began in concert dance, for which they hold a BFA from SUNY Purchase.
As a musician, Cunning is known for their traffic stopping voice and LGBTQ advocacy. They areset to tour “Glass Jaw,” (their debut EP) this fall.
CONNOR PAOLO (JUSTIN) can currently be seen in Francis Galluppi's award-winning film: THE LAST STOP INYUMA COUNTY and on the festival circuit in Vivian Kerr's feature: SEANCE and J. Zachary Thurman's: THE DEMON CORE. Upcoming films include Tyler Shields': CHAPTER 51, currentlyshowing in select IMAX screenings, and Kim Caicedo's debut feature: SHEEPWELL.
Select past film work includes: AMBUSH, THE YOUNG WIFE, A CREATURE WAS STIRRING, FLOCK OF FOUR, the STAKE LAND films, SNOW ANGELS, ALEXANDER and MYSTIC RIVER.
Select TV work includes: Revenge, Gossip Girl, Electric Dreams, Fire Country, The Resident and The Brave.Guest:
Kat Cunning - Instagram Wikipedia Website IMDb
Connor Paolo - Wikipedia Instagram IMDb
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Tribeca: Luke Kirby and Daniel Serafini-Sauli for World Premiere of Terror Keeps You Slender
Jessica Daniels is an Emmy and Artios Award-winning casting director for film and television, with credits including Will Trent, Dying for Sex, The 40-Year-Old Version, The Miseducation of Cameron Post, and 30 Rock. A New York native and former VP of Casting at Walt Disney Television Studios, she has spent over two decades championing talent. Jessica is passionate about storytelling and sees casting as an essential mechanism for shaping culture.
In this episode, we talk about:
• Introduction to Entertainment: Jessica Daniels began her career in the entertainment industry at Backstage Magazine, where she wrote and edited casting notices and conducted interviews.
• Interest in Casting: Her interest in casting was piqued after creating a top 20 list of film casting directors, which led her to pursue a career in casting.
• Career Path: Jessica transitioned from editorial work to becoming a casting assistant, eventually working on notable projects like "Garden State" and "The Carrie Diaries” (the latter she thought of as a breakthrough series for her).
• Casting Philosophy: She emphasizes the importance of matching energies and representation in casting, often advocating for actors she believes in.
• Challenges and Insights: Jessica discusses the fast-paced nature of casting, the importance of being prepared for pitch meetings, and the balance between casting known actors and discovering new talent.
• Current Work: She is currently working on two feature films and preparing for the next season of "Will Trent."
• Advice for Filmmakers: Jessica advises filmmakers to make roles appealing to actors and to consider hiring a casting director to open up the world of possibilities for their projects.
• The High of Casting: When a difficult deal closes or she finds the right person for a role.
• Auditions: The benefits of submitting early and whether it’s a necessity.
• Lightning round: How to Deal, Garden State, Royal Pains, 30 Rock, Coach Carter, Will Trent, Elekra, Ice Princess, Single Drunk Female
Guest:
IMDb Linkedin Instagram
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Close Up with Casting Director Tara Rubin (Aladdin, BOOP, Death Becomes Her, Six, The Outsiders)
Join us as we delve into the fascinating career beginnings of Luke Kirby and Daniel Serafini-Sauli. In this episode, they share their first steps into the entertainment industry, with Daniel recounting his role in the Tony Award-winning revival of "A View from the Bridge" and Luke narrating a documentary for the National Film Board of Canada. Their stories reveal the challenges and triumphs of breaking into acting, offering a candid look at the paths that led them to where they are today. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the art of storytelling.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Introduction to Luke and Daniel: Explore their early career experiences and how they entered the entertainment industry.
• Challenges and Triumphs: Hear about the ups and downs of their careers.
• Passion for Storytelling: Learn about their shared love for storytelling and how it has shaped their careers.
• Future Aspirations: A glimpse into what Luke and Daniel hope to achieve next in their careers.
• The Film: How Daniel put the crew and financing together for this three day shoot
Guest:
Terror Keeps You Slender Tribeca page
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
TRIBECA: Patricia Arquette and Camila Morrone on the U.S. Premiere of "Gonzo Girl"
Happy 5 Year Anniversary Mentors on the Mic Episode!
For our 5th Anniversary, I am sharing a solo episode where I discuss some of my favorite films, short films, pilots, Talks, Tribeca X panels, and Docs that I saw at Tribeca 2025.
Some of these projects will be featured with interviews in the podcast, including Gonzo Girl, Honeyjoon, Dead Language, Seasoned, Mother, May I have a Kidney, Everything's Going to Be Great, and Terror Keeps You Slender.
If you listen to this episode, please say Hi on social media! Please write a review and rate us 5 stars on Apple Podcasts!
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
TRIBECA: Patricia Arquette and Camila Morrone on the U.S. Premiere of "Gonzo Girl"
EVERYTHING'S GOING TO BE GREAT in Theaters now!
Director Jon S Baird
Writer Steven Rogers
The Smart family's life takes a dramatic turn when tragedy forces them to confront their oversized dreams, struggles with identity and chaotic regional theater life. As theater manager parents (Allison Janney and Bryan Cranston) work to support their two sons — a hunky football star (Jack Champion) and his flamboyant, theater-loving younger brother (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth) — unexpected circumstances compel them to move in with Janney's estranged brother (Chris Cooper). What begins as a temporary arrangement soon unravels years of familial tension, prompting each member to reevaluate their place in the world and in their relationships.
Director Jon S. Baird orchestrates this warmly observant comedy-drama with a perfect balance of sharp humor and poignant family dynamics. The powerhouse cast delivers nuanced performances, with Janney and Cranston demonstrating once again why they are among the most versatile actors working today. Their chemistry grounds the film's journey through artistic ambition and life's unexpected detours, while Cooper adds layers of complexity as the long-estranged brother. Beyond its headline-grabbing ensemble, the film's tender exploration of how families navigate change and disappointment resonates with authenticity as these deeply human characters stumble toward reconciliation and renewal in this stirring celebration of life's messy beauty.—Jarod Neece
Director Jon S. Baird ("Filth," "Stan & Ollie," "Babylon")
Screenwriter Steven Rogers ("I Tonya," "P.S. I Love You," "Kate & Leopold," "Hope Floats," "Love the Coopers," "Stepmom")
Guest:
Mother, May I have a Kidney? - Tribeca
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
This is the Full interview with Paul Schnee.
PAUL SCHNEE is originally from Wilmington, Delaware and is a graduate of Kenyon College. After graduating, Paul worked at ICM for agent Sam Cohn, then as assistant to director Mike Nichols. He and Kerry formed Barden / Schnee Casting in 2008. Paul is a member of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, The British Film and Television Academy, and The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. He lives in Brooklyn NY with his wife and daughters.
In this episode, we talk about all things ACTORS including:
• How he chooses to bring actors for roles
• How many actors does he request self tapes from
• Does he go through submissions himself or is it someone from his team
• How actors can stay on his radar
• What projects he's casting now
• If he watches actor reels
• Directing a project that's premiering at Tribeca
Guest:
Mother, May I have a Kidney? - Tribeca
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Veronica Reyes-How is an award winning writer/actor/producer based in NYC. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.A in Mathematics, she left a career in technology consulting to pursue acting when an open-call audition resulted in her booking the national tour of Rent. Her big break came when she was one of ten actorschosen for the ABC/Disney Talent Showcase. Mentored by ABC/Disney, she then went on to book credits such as CBS’ Blue Bloods, NBC’s The Blacklist, CBS’ Person of Interest, and ABC’s Alex Inc. She was also featured in HBO’s East of Main Street as an up and coming actor. Her short film, California Roll, which she co-produced and acted in screened at over 10 festivals around the country, and won Best Micro Thriller at Austin Revolution Film Festival.
PAUL SCHNEE is originally from Wilmington, Delaware and is a graduate of Kenyon College. After graduating, Paul worked at ICM for agent Sam Cohn, then as assistant to director Mike Nichols. He and Kerry formed Barden / Schnee Casting in 2008. Paul is a member of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, The British Film and Television Academy, and The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. He lives in Brooklyn NY with his wife and daughters.
Charlotte Ray Rosenberg (Sneaky Pete, FBI: Most Wanted)
Guest:
Mother, May I have a Kidney? - Tribeca
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Jeffrey Seller's shows have garnered twenty-two Tony Awards, including four for Best Musical, and his Broadway productions and tours have grossed more than $4.6 billion and reached more than 43 million attendees. Jeffrey is the only producer to have mounted two Pulitzer Prize–winning musicals—Hamilton and Rent. He also revolutionized theater accessibility with the $20 ticket lottery for Rent, making theater affordable for many. This passion for accessibility underscores his belief in the power of the stage, which was his ticket out of his hometown.
In this episode, we talk about:
• First job out of University of Michigan was in publicity
• Learning all aspects of being a producer when he worked for the Barry and Fran Weissler
• Booker for Paul Blake and Kevin McCollum and they lessons he learned there
• Acting to writing to directing to producing and how/why he decided to stick with producing
• The power of writing letters as a form of communication, including a letter to his dad, a letter to Jonathan Larson and a letter to Lin-Manuel Miranda
• His complicated relationship with his father growing up
• The price of success and whether he had to sacrifice anything to get there
• Producing the audiobook with actors like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Danny Burstein, Annaleigh Ashford, and more
• His advice for establishing community as an up and coming artist
• Lightning round including a musical that always makes him musical, a project he wishes he produced, and projects he passed on
• His relationship with Jonathan Larson ahead of RENT
Guest:
Wikipedia Instagram & Threads Playbill
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out
Patricia Arquette is a 4th generation actor. She received the Academy Award for her work in “Boyhood,” the critically acclaimed 12-year project from Richard Linklater, for which she also won the Golden Globe, BAFTA, SAG, New York Film Critics Circle, Los Angeles Film Critics, and Independent Spirit Awards for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture.
Patricia will make her directing debut this summer with GONZO GIRL, a feature film based on the best-selling novel by Cheryl Della Pietra, which will star Willem Dafoe, Camila Morrone, Ray Nicholson and Patricia Arquette. Her credits include: Severance, Boyhood, Medium, and Escape at Dannemora.
Camila Morrone recently received her first Emmy Award nomination for her performance in Amazon’s hit limited series DAISY JONES & THE SIX, produced by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and based on the popular book of the same name. Her other credits include Mickey and The Bear, Never Goin Back, and Bukowsi.
GONZO GIRL - Set in 1992 in Aspen, Colorado, and inspired by a true story, GONZO GIRL follows Alley Russo (Camila Morrone), an aspiring writer who takes on an assistant job to the iconoclast and founder of gonzo journalism, Walker Reade (Willem Dafoe). Alley is thrown headfirst into his psychedelic, drug-fueled world that blurs the boundaries between co-dependence and addiction. Witnessing her literary hero’s fading glory, she falls deeper into his chaotic world and tries to help him finish his long-awaited novel – by any means necessary.”
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Camila Morrone, Patricia Arquette, Elizabeth Lail, Ray Nicholson, Leila George, James Urbaniak
Directed by: Patricia Arquette
In this episode, we talk about:
Guest:
Connect with Patricia Arquette
Connect with Camila Morrone
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out TRIBECA: Tim Blake Nelson, Andrew Liner and Vincent Grashaw for "BANG BANG"
This is a 3 part mini Casting Director series, sponsored by Casting Networks.
We're so excited to bring Emmy winning Casting Director Jule Tucker back on the podcast!
Julie Tucker is a two time Emmy winning Casting Director (7 times nominated). Her list of credits include projects such as Queen Latifah’s "The Equalizer," "The Hot Zone, Anthrax," and the Jennifer Lopez feature film, "Marry Me." Past television credits include: "Damages" (Emmy and Artios Award), "Six Feet Under" (Emmy and CSA Artios Award for NY Casting), "Rescue Me" (CSA Artios Award), "Hunters," "The Affair," "Nurse Jackie," "Sneaky Pete," "White Collar," "The Following," Fringe," "The Big C," "The Americans," "In Treatment," "Lincoln Rhyme," "The Baker and the Beauty," "Tell Me A Story," "Sleepy Hollow," "Limitless," "Black Box," "Those Who Kill," "The Michael J. Fox Show," "Sirens," "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll," "Allegiance," "Canterbury’s Law," "Love Monkey," "The Book of Daniel" and the first three seasons of "Law and Order: SVU."
We have so many updates from Julie Tucker.
Guest:
Casting Networks Sponsor:
For a limited time, we’re offering listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership. Use the code “MENTORSMIC”at checkout. Or if you’re not ready to commit, take advantage of our 14-day free trial, which unlocks full access to all Casting Networks features so you can start submitting to casting calls right away. Terms and conditions apply. Visit https://www.castingnetworks.com/promo-codes/ to learn more.
Steps on how to redeem:
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Close Up with Casting Director Tara Rubin (Aladdin, BOOP, Death Becomes Her, Six, The Outsiders)
This is a 3 part mini Casting Director series, sponsored by Casting Networks.
Tara Rubin started her company, Tara Rubin Casting in 2001 after working at
Johnson-Liff Casting for fifteen years. During that time she cast for Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Guys and Dolls, and the daytime drama Another World.
At Tara Rubin Casting she continued those associations and cast other Broadway productions, including Mamma Mia!, The Producers, Bombay Dreams, Spamalot, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, Billy Elliot, School of Rock, Aladdin, A Bronx Tale, Dear Evan Hansen, The Band's Visit, Six, Here Lies Love, and The Outsiders. Current Broadway shows include Six, Aladdin, Death Becomes Her, Boop: The Musical, Dead Outlaw, and Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends. She recently cast the film Here Today and the Apple + series Before both starring Billy Crystal.
Tara serves on committees for the Entertainment Community Fund and the Noel Coward Foundation. She is an honors graduate of Boston University, a member of the Casting Society and recipient of the Hoyt Bowers Award for excellence in casting and outstanding contribution to the casting profession.
She has taught classes at New York University and Sarah Lawrence College.
In 2025 Tara Rubin Casting rebranded as the TRC Company.
In this episode, we talk about all things ACTORS including:
• How she casts a replacement for a show, particularly the balance between the individuality of the actor vs what the original performer did
• How long does an actor have to rehearse before replacing another person in the role
• The process of casting a Broadway show ensemble, with the makeup of one including understudies and skilled dancers
• How many actors get submitted for a role and how many actors she brings in that she knows vs who she doesn’t know
• Process of casting a show from workshop to regional to Broadway
• Booking the room vs the part - and how talent and imagination makes actors stands out to her in an audition
• What has she noticed in actors that book a lot
• How do you stay in touch or keep on her radar
• Advice for new actors about starting on Broadway
Guest:
Casting Networks Sponsor:
For a limited time, we’re offering listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership. Use the code “MENTORSMIC”at checkout. Or if you’re not ready to commit, take advantage of our 14-day free trial, which unlocks full access to all Casting Networks features so you can start submitting to casting calls right away. Terms and conditions apply. Visit https://www.castingnetworks.com/promo-codes/ to learn more.
Steps on how to redeem:
Visit www.castingnetworks.com
Click on the ‘Join Now’ button
Complete the Talent Registration form and follow the steps to verify your email and create your profile
Proceed to checkout, leaving the' ‘Pay Yearly’ option selected
Enter ‘MENTORSMIC’ in the promo code field, click “Apply” to complete checkout.
Don’t wait! This offer expires soon!
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
This is a 3 part mini Casting Director series, sponsored by Casting Networks.
PAUL SCHNEE is originally from Wilmington, Delaware and is a graduate of Kenyon College. After graduating, Paul worked at ICM for agent Sam Cohn, then as assistant to director Mike Nichols. He and Kerry formed Barden / Schnee Casting in 2008. Paul is a member of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, The British Film and Television Academy, and The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. He lives in Brooklyn NY with his wife and daughters.
In this episode, we talk about all things ACTORS including:
• How he chooses to bring actors for roles
• How many actors does he request self tapes from
• Does he go through submissions himself or is it someone from his team
• How actors can stay on his radar
• What projects he's casting now
• If he watches actor reels
• Directing a project that's premiering at Tribeca
Guest:
Mother, May I have a Kidney? - Tribeca
Casting Networks Sponsor:
For a limited time, we’re offering listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership. Use the code “MENTORSMIC”at checkout. Or if you’re not ready to commit, take advantage of our 14-day free trial, which unlocks full access to all Casting Networks features so you can start submitting to casting calls right away. Terms and conditions apply. Visit https://www.castingnetworks.com/promo-codes/ to learn more.
Steps on how to redeem:
Visit www.castingnetworks.com
Click on the ‘Join Now’ button
Complete the Talent Registration form and follow the steps to verify your email and create your profile
Proceed to checkout, leaving the' ‘Pay Yearly’ option selected
Enter ‘MENTORSMIC’ in the promo code field, click “Apply” to complete checkout.
Don’t wait! This offer expires soon!
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
Marketing Expert and Podcast Host Abby Zufelt walks us through the rebrand of her podcast, Working Girl Talk, sharing with us her tips on rebranding our projects.
“Branding is one of my favorite topics and as somebody who just went through a really long branding journey, I’m happy to help and share my thoughts on this.”
Some questions we went over include:
1. What is the mission? What do I do? What am I trying to convey to people?
2. Abby walks us through her three lists exercise so we can align your current brand with your aspirational brand.
3. What is the experience you want people to feel? This will reflect in the music, fonts, brand motifs, and color palette.
4. Brand looks, complete with accessories and props.
and... Does she recommend erasing your former branding on Instagram?
Guest:
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com andwww.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle
If you like this episode, check out:
The Importance of Mastermind Groups
3 Actionable tips to starting your PR strategy before getting a publicist
Oscar Predictions with Michelle Miller, actress & podcaster on Working Girl Talk podcast
Ken Girotti has had a hand in the creation of hundreds of hours of television episodes, pilots, television movies and film and received multiple award nominations. His television movie MAYERTHORPE garnered the best director award from the Director’s Guild of Canada.
Recently Ken has been Executive Producer/Director on FBI MOST WANTED (CBS). He served the same role on ANNE WITH AN E (Netflix). He Executive Produced and Directed both
seasons of PURE (Hulu/WGN) and was a Producer and Director on the CBC miniseries FORTUNATE SON. He directed half the episodes of the first three seasons of VIKINGS (History Channel), episodes of DAREDEVIL (Netflix), LAW & ORDER ORGANIZED
CRIME (NBC), ORPHAN BLACK (BBC America), FRONTIER (Netflix), THE STRAIN (FX Networks), THE CROSSING (ABC), COPPER (BBC America), DAMAGES (FX Networks), RESCUE ME (FX Networks). Pilots and movies for television he’s shot include CRA$H & BURN, SABBATICAL, THE DEALERSHIP, and BEFRIEND & BETRAY.
Currently Ken has numerous projects in development with Scott Einbinder’s 5X Media
He splits his time between New York City, Madrid and Toronto.
In this episode, we talk about:
• Started in theater and craft services before assisting directing (which wasn’t the right fit for him)
• Working on the famous “The Ides of March” episode onXena: Warrior Princess with Lucy Lawless
• Gigging on various shows vs working a few episodes of one show or what he calls “a tonic”
• Tips for actors on their self tapes
• His approach to a new script and how much time he has for prep
• How do you add producing to your role as a director of an episode of a show
• What it means to be a creative gatekeeper of a show likeFBI: Most Wanted
• How he handles show runners, producers, and writers “meddling” while maintaining his creative vision as a director
• Tips for directors in training
• Lightning round with his thoughts on shows he’s worked on including:24 with Kiefer Sutherland, Season 1 ofSupernatural,New Amsterdam,White Collar,Covert Affairs,Rescue Me,La Femme Nikita,Nikita,Vikings,Pure,Orphan Black,Anne with an Ewith co-showrunner Moira Walley-Beckett(about to doFourth Wingseries), andFBI: Most Wanted
• What episodes Ken directs of FBI: Most Wanted and how does he choose who directs other episodes
Guest:
Host:
Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com andwww.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelleIf you like this episode, check out
Linda Mendoza - From page to Comedy TV/Film Director of Scrubs, The Good Place, and more
Jason Ensler - From PSAs to Executive Producer/Director of HULU's "Love, Victor"
Scott McCormick, has been an audiobook director, adaptor and narrator for over 10 years. In that time he has directed and adapted over a hundred books and narrated and provided voices for well over a thousand book. He has played many characters through the years including the lead roles in Sir Apropos of Nothing by Peter David and The Ishmael Jones by Simon R. Green. He has also lent his voice to dozens of audiocomic book characters including Venom, The Thing and most recently Hellboy. A native of Baltimore, he moved to the DC metro area in 1999 to pursue a career in theatre, wanting to avoid any chance of fame by not moving to New York or LA. He just north of DC with the love of his life, Jillian.
In this episode, we talk about:
• A breakdown of his role as Creative Director and Director Training Manager at Graphic Audio
• Process for creating the dramatized audiobook for Graphic Audio
• How COVID expanded their roster of actors
• How long production and post-production takes for a book like Fourth Wing or Iron Flame or Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
• Reading Onyx Storm and starting in mid-February
• Surprise at the success of ACOTAR and Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, especially on Tik Tok
• How he envisions a character on the page
• Advice for starting in Voiceover including recommended hardware and software
• A great voice for Graphic Audio and the ways to submit to Graphic Audio as a VO artist
Guest:
The Empyrean 1: Fourth Wing (1 of 2) (Dramatized Adaptation) - Also available wherever you listen to audiobooks
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle If you like this episode, check out
Becoming... VP at Disney Television Animation of Current Series & Diversity Jay Francis
Khaya Fraites is a voice and film actor based in New York City. She has narrated books such as the full cast versions of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame from GraphicAudio and has performed in video games such as World of Warcraft, Diablo 4, and Blumhouse games’ first release: Fear the Spotlight. You can also catch her in animated shows such as Pokémon Paldean Winds, Quantum Heroes Dinoster and Rainbow High. Khaya is also a filmmaker and has made short films that have screen at festivals such as Virginia Film Fest and, Big Apple Film Fest.
In this episode, we talk about:
• Her start in Voiceover in 2020 and what she used for her first voiceover reel on Backstage
• Her initial voiceover setup (including equipment and software) and how it compares to her setup and space
• The first websites she would submit to and what she submits to now
• How she started at Graphic Audio and recording for their database
• Recording narration and/or dialogue for Graphic Audio books like Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, Crescent City, and Zodiac Academy
• The experience of the Iron Flame audiobook blowing up
• Working on animation and video games and booking VO work on twitter
• Advice for people who want to get into voiceover
Guest:
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle If you like this episode, check out
The 7 "Rules" That Actors Should Break w/ Joshua Morgan of the Creative Risk podcast
Becoming... Series Regular Melissa Navia (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds on Paramount+)
Becoming... VP at Disney Television Animation of Current Series & Diversity Jay Francis
Joshua: Joshua is a diverse, singing actor who has worked on Broadway and regionally at esteemed theaters such as Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Arena Stage, Theatre Under the Stars, Folger Theatre, Triad Stage, and Signature Theatre. His television appearances include "FBI," "Law and Order," "Law and Order: Organized Crime," "Law and Order: SVU," "Lincoln Rhyme," and HBO’s "Paterno." Joshua co-founded and served as Artistic Director of the Helen Hayes Award-winning No Rules Theatre Company in Washington, DC, and Winston-Salem, NC.
Mike Labbadia (co-host) an actor, producer, writer and filmmaker, a “multipassionate” you can say. As a company member of BEDLAM he's appeared Off-Broadway in shows from Arcadia to Julius Caesar. Regional work includes Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Gulfshore Playhouse, Penguin Rep and Virginia Rep. He's in the upcoming film "On the End" with Tim Blake Nelson. As a producer he's had films premiere at prestigious festivals around the world.
In this episode, we discuss these "Rules" actors should break:
06:15 - Rule 1 - Don't pitch yourself
9:03 - Rule 2 - Don't complain to our Reps
12:45 - Rule 3 - We can only be one "kind of artist"
17:15 - Rule 4 - Wait until you have a big project to grow an audience
21:20 - Rule 5 - Don't actively pursue industry relationships
15:52 - Rule 6 - Take on Gig work to support your career
30:29 - Rule 7 - Let the Industry define you as an artist
PODCAST DESCRIPTION: “CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.
Guest:
For Joshua Morgan :
Website IMDb Instagram Broadway World
For Podcast: Spotify Apple Podcasts Youtube Instagram TikTok
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle Stay tuned to the end of the episode for a clip of the Creative Risk podcast.
If you like this episode, check out my episode on their podcast"
A graduate from Aberystwyth University, BEN THOMPSON left Wales and London to settle in New York. Soon after arriving he joined the Tribeca Film Festival where he is currently the VP of Shorts Programming. From the start of his career as a filmmaker Ben has always had a keen interest in short form storytelling and discovered while at Tribeca a passion for programming and presenting short films to new and engaged audiences. He is fascinated by the influence film has on our world and culture and travels to search out new stories from around the globe. He has watched over 12,000 short films for Tribeca alone.
In this episode, we talk about:
• Internships that prepared him for working at Tribeca Festival
• Pros/Cons for submitting early to film festivals
• The process for programming short film blocks for the festival and advice for short film filmmakers who want to submit to festivals like Tribeca (timing, theme, etc)
• Whether filmmakers can monetize short films and the value from having your short in a festival
• Festivals are seasonal work and the different festivals he used to work in one year and moving to a full time position
• What goes into a Festival Coordinator position and working as a liaison between the festival and the filmmakers
• Whether it’s important to have celebrities or famous people in short films
• What’s important in a cover letter - description and how you are positioning your film
• What he recommends is the most important investment in creating your short film.
• Benefits he’s seen of screening at Tribeca and other opportunities available for short film filmmakers at the festival
• Internal scoring process at Tribeca
• Advice for those who want to be a programmer at a festival
Guest:
2025 Tribeca Festival Submissions overview
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle If you like this episode, check out How I Got my Press Badge for Tribeca Festival - 4th Anniversary Solo Episode
TRIBECA SERIES: RESOURCES, PROGRAMS and AWARDS with Director of Artist Programs Bryce Norbitz
Becoming... Festival Director and Senior VP of Programming at Tribeca Festival Cara Cusumano
Presenting... Part 2 of my Filmmaker Roundtable at the Hampton International Film Festival.
In this episode, we talk to the filmmaking teams of four short films. We delve into the process of creating their films and their experience at the festival.
Including:
Host:
Instagram: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneMiller
Twitter: @MentorsontheMic @MichelleSimoneM
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic
Website: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle If you like this episode, check out Hampton Film Festival Filmmaker Roundtable - ADULT BEST FRIENDS, LOS FRIKIS, A MAN WITH SOLE: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE (Part 1)
TRIBECA SERIES: RESOURCES, PROGRAMS and AWARDS with Director of Artist Programs Bryce Norbitz
