Welcome to the Actors Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 37! This week we have a very special guest, prolific screenwriter and producer, Patrick Massett! This episode is packed as Patrick walks the guys through his incredible career spanning decades, beginning with hitting it big co-writing Lara Croft: Tomb Raider w/ Angelina Jolie, the most successful video game adaptation until Super Mario. E-Kan and Rian got a treat to Patrick’s many classic Hollywood stories like doing theater with Val Kilmer and behind the scenes hanging on the set of Oliver Stone’s "The Doors" and how sometimes you gotta take big swings to succeed in this industry. They  go back to the Patrick's early days starting out as an actor, working with some of the greats in TV history, including Ron Moore, Larry Gordon, and Sean Ryan, as well as humble beginning growing up in Nebraska. You'll hear a hilarious story of how he got into his first acting class and yet another lesson why everyone should take an acting class.   Patrick talks about pivoting from acting to screenwriting and following his passion for telling stories. He also talks about his writing process and why handling criticism and feedback are so important to his success. This is a masterclass in how to handle the ebbs and flows of a tricky and evolving entertainment industry. Of course they eventually get into the polarizing AI conversation, and a larger discussion about data, money, and how it all will affect our entertainment industry and global economy, as well as an alarming warning of what might happen if we're not careful. This episode was so packed, stay tuned for a part two coming soon! Follow  @actorsguidepodcast  wherever you find your podcasts! New episodes here every Monday!   Time Stamps: (0:00) Intro (1:30) AI Regulations survive (3:00) Growing up in Nebraska and how it started (4:00) Shooting big helped them land Tomb Raider (7:30) The old Hollywood we miss (9:00) How a Nebraska quarterback got into acting and writing (10:49) Being old friends with Val Kilmer (11:30) Early inspirations and falling in love movies (13:10) Writing success rescued him from being broke (15:15)Mick Jagger and taking risks (16:45) How they landed Angelina Jolie (22:30) Getting typecast as the bad guy (28:55) How he started acting because of football (29:36) Doing Shakespeare with Val Kilmer (37:30) When Rian auditioned for Patrick (40:00) Pivoting from acting to writing and trusting your gut (41:21) Against all odds with Friday Night Lights (46:40) It’s a collaboration (52:15) Fighting the algorithm and the magic of the unknown (56:00) Why we need AI regulations and the future of TV (1:06:00) Final thoughts and keys to success

Welcome to Episode 36 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week, the AI Regulations Ban gets voted down by the Senate 99-1, so chalk one up for the good guys. Can’t speak about everything else in the bill, but that’s really good news for AI state regulations. Thanks to the overwhelming action taken by voters calling in to their local lawmakers and Senators, state AI laws will still be in effect and are safe… for now. The guys also discuss a recent MIT study on the brains of Chat GPT users and the results are TERRIFYING. You’ll want to hear this. Rían shares how he used Chat GPT for the first time and what happened when  E-Kan tried to adjust a picture of the Pyramids in Egypt in Chat GPT. The guys also discuss the trending vertical shorts that are sweeping through the entertainment industry. Cheesy, addictive, quick to shoot, and non-union-What can go wrong? What actors need to know and are they good for your career? It’s the good, the bad, and the ugly on this week’s episode! Follow us wherever you find your podcasts @actorsguidepodcast and on all social media. New episodes every Monday!    https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-senate-strikes-ai-regulation-ban-trump-megabill-2025-07-01/ https://time.com/7295195/ai-chatgpt-google-learning-school/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DLEzpBUxwG5/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLafRmfJ2qi/?igsh=MTl4YWJjMzlkZ24xYw== Hidden Gems: Wabry Strawberry Sauce https://www.amazon.com/W%C3%A4bry-Organic-Syrup-14-9-Strawberry/dp/B01B38XU7W/ref=asc_df_B01B38XU7W?mcid=ee468f94a7a33797ba79ab5d5c5adc45&hvocijid=9132119578248570766-B01B38XU7W-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9132119578248570766&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002783&hvtargid=pla-2281435179098&th=1   DeMillo’s (Portland, ME) - https://www.dimillos.com/ Time stamps: (0:00) Intro (3:15) AI Regulations survive (4:40) Chat GPT affect on users’ brains (10:50) Are we willing to be uncomfortable? (15:15) How a journalist uses Chat GPT (18:37) Is it worth it to go to film school or drama school? (24:00) There still is hope for our youth (26:30) Vertical shorts are sweeping Hollywood (29:40) Should actors do vertical shorts? (36:00) What actors should be aware of (40:15) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 35 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week, CA got some big news and a step forward for getting production back in CA. E-Kan and Rían talk about the latest progress in CA’s $750 million film/tv tax credit as well as what just went down the FilmLA contract renewal. FilmLA is the non-profit that helps LA filmmakers get permits for their productions, at least that’s the idea. But with productions leaving CA in droves, LA filmmakers want some major change and showed it by making their voices heard at a town hall in Downtown LA. You’ll hear what went down. The guys also continue their conversation on making your own work, obstacles and roadblocks they’ve faced, and some practical tricks and methods to trick your brain and get sh#* done. E-Kan also saw a talk with Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr. and shares incredible lessons on leadership and collaboration from the Broadway gods themselves. And that gets them to Rían’s worst audition story for a musical and what could’ve been… if Rían just knew how to dance. You’ll also hear why Christopher Nolan said “You don’t need to be typing to be writing”, and E-Kan says “Write what makes you angry.” If you find yourself hitting stumbling blocks, this episode might help you. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/l-a-renews-film-office-contract-five-more-years-1236297718/ https://deadline.com/2025/06/california-passes-750m-film-tax-credit-funding-1236444493/   Lin-Manuel Miranda and Leslie Odom Jr conversation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzHVG7r0G0c E-Kan directed a short- No Laughing Matter: Tears of A Clown link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=sleaN1b0og8&t=1s&sttick=0   Hidden Gems: The War of Art by Stephen Pressfield - https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/9395741538/ref=asc_df_9395741538?mcid=5fad61ab3eb73b24b49e34f8e10be519&hvocijid=10747138887357338460-9395741538-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10747138887357338460&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003384&hvtargid=pla-2281435178778&psc=1 B&H Bild Expo- https://www.bildexpo.com/ Time stamps (0:00) Intro (3:50) CA Film TV Tax Credits (5:10) FilmLA Tax Renewal (08:40) Creating your own work (09:45) Rían’s worst audition story was for a musical (12:20) E-Kan enters a singing contest (15:00) Rían was almost a pop star (17:00) Why Lin-Manuel Miranda’s the best (21:00) Roadblocks that Rían faces (23:00) Practical ways to get started creating (26:40) Trick your brain (29:00) Get a deadline (38:00) Lesson E-Kan learned and why consistency is key (40:25) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 34 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week, the guys talk about why Disney and Universal is suing AI powerhouse Midjourney. It's time to root for Disney this time, and E-Kan and Rían talk about why it's a big deal for creators and the future of AI regulations. They dig into what Midjourney does exactly and the tricky debate about whose at fault if a copyrighted image is created - the user or the tool? Is Midjourney like using other tools like Photoshop?  E-Kan also opens up about AI tools he's scared to use and why we need to look into the terms of service for these sites. Can we trust anyone? So far, it's unclear.  They discuss the importance of AI regulations and the power of unions which gets them onto Tyler Perry and his tricky relationship with unions in the past.  And a side tangent- what does it mean when we say someone's intense? Is E-Kan intense? We then get into a conversation about Tom Cruise, how he's saving the movies, and what makes him, according to us, possibly the best movie star we have today. The dedication he has to working on camera and what actors need to learn from him. E-Kan then shares a story about how he did background on a Tom Cruise film back in the day which thrills Rían. This is a fun one, folks.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow us on social media at @actorsguidepodcast! Disney vs Midjourney Dain Walker post - https://www.instagram.com/p/DK0pmxdTupE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.wired.com/story/midjourney-generates-videos-of-disney-characters-amid-massive-copyright-lawsuit/ https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/business/media/disney-universal-midjourney-ai.html https://blavity.com/entertainment/heres-why-tyler-perry-could-get-in-trouble-with-labor-unions-again-with-new-play-madeas-farewell   Hidden Gems:  The Artist's Way (Julia Cameron) https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-25th-Anniversary/dp/0143129252 Magnesium L-Threonate (I'm not a doctor, shocker, please do your research)   Time stamps (2:17) Disney sues Midjourney (5:37) Who’s at fault? (10:33) Tyler Perry and Unions (15:10) We’re scared to use certain AI tools (20:08) Tom Cruise is saving movies  (22:40) How well Tom Cruise understands the lens (25:47) The intensity of Tom Cruise (30:48) When E-Kan worked on a Tom Cruise movie (40:09) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 33 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week the guys discuss the massive layoffs happening throughout Hollywood, including WB Discovery, Paramount, Disney, and many more.  Looks like the actors and crew aren't the only ones looking for work. E-Kan and Rían find a little comfort in this turbulent time in the industry and talk about the only real thing to do right now - make your own stuff! This is just skimming the surface and part two will come, but E-Kan talks about his experience directing, producing, writing, and starring in award-winning web series and short films (links below). They talk about their experiences collaborating  with others, gems like don’t let great be the enemy of good, how creating your own work will make you a better actor, and how to prioritize starting a production from the ground up with limited resources.  If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to creating your own projects, this is the episode for you.    https://deadline.com/feature/hollywood-media-layoffs-list-1236007845/ Web series "Born Losers" https://bornloserstv.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@bornloserstv2995 Short Film - "No Laughing Matter: Tears of a Clown" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sleaN1b0og8&t=141s "How to Book with Lesly Kahn" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzSg6Q03W4o&t=22s Hidden Gems:  Ci Siamo (NYC) https://www.cisiamo.com/menus/   Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:50) Layoffs at the studios (7:15) The only thing you can do as an actor (11:25) Don't let Great be the Enemy of Good  (13:25) Making your own stuff (15:50) How do you start?  (17:50) The freedom in making your own work (19:37) Minimizing expectations and the real purpose (29:00) Where it all started (29:50) The importance of finding the right partner (32:50) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 32 to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World podcast! Still coming down from last week’s epic episode with last week’s guest Kirsten Sheridan, E-Kan and Rían recap major takeaways and lessons learned. Be sure to check out her summer workshop happening this month in LA, info below. They get onto a little blast from the past when E-Kan worked with a screen acting legend and all because he was an intern at the casting office. Listen in to hear how E-Kan’s ass got his first studio credit.  Rían also shares his first movie experience with Joel Schumacher and how he also worked at a casting office. You’ll hear what he learned about auditioning from watching and reading with so many actors as well as why “sexy indifference” is so appealing. Rían also brings up wisdom from incredible actor Michael Kostroff that changed how he looks at auditions and how it helped to remember “you’re not going to get the fucking job.” And then they discuss a controversial post about "self-tapes truths" from a former casting director that has caused a stir online. The guys debunk it and what actors need to remember, especially newer ones. You’re going to want to hear this one. New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on Youtube and Substack! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media including IG and TikTok.   Kirsten Sheridan’s website-  www.kirstensheridan.net  Summer workshop - www.bowstreet.ie/kirsten-sheridan-workshop  Aaron Paul “Breaking Bad” audition https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-6vWahav9E Amy Adam’s “June Bug” audition https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxxVcAc4gZc Emma stone’s audition “Easy A” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f0UgVxpe9E   Hidden gems: Museum of Moving Image (Astoria, NY) Jim Henson and Mission Impossible https://movingimage.org/whats-on/screenings-and-series/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22307333704&gbraid=0AAAAAogSa6Wx8yyXir9YTjwyjqeZFYzj5&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjJrCBhCXARIsAI5x66XlXeI3vGlrWaJ2gD1A1MEz2nVXJz1fo9cnMikUedk5lfQr6S7bsjgaAmNzEALw_wcB Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari https://www.amazon.com/Nexus-Brief-History-Information-Networks/dp/059373422X Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:45) Kirsten Sheridan recap (7:05) Working with legend Tom Hanks (12:50) Rían first film experience with Joel Shumacher (17:00) Lessons learned from interning at a casting office (18:00) Audition workshop from "The Wire" actor Michael Kostroff (23:30) "Self-Tape Truths" debunked (35:24) Learn from the best auditions online (37:00) Hidden gems    

Welcome to Episode 31 to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World podcast! This episode came out a little late this week but it’s worth the wait. We have our very first guest- Oscar nominated writer director Kirsten Sheridan stops by the show.  That's right. We might just quit after this episode.  We discuss so many things, from being nominated for writing “In America”, the indie hit based on her life story immigrating to the U.S., watching her legendary director father direct Daniel Day Lewis, and directing her first feature starring a 25-year old Cillian Murphy. The incredible actors she has worked with include Samantha Morton, Paddy Considine, Djimon Hounsou, and of course Robin Williams. She has so much wisdom to share.  Kirsten talks about the biggest lesson she learned from her father and the one piece of advice she always gives actors. Also what on Earth is Danny Devito’s Troll Foot? And what’s a 99? Also Kirsten's latest show "Say Nothing" on Hulu is earning rave reviews. The gripping true story spans four decades during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and we discuss the impact it's having on audiences. She and Rían also reminisce as they happened to have gone to the same high school as one another.  As if that wasn't enough, she started a filmmaking community/school in Ireland and is bringing that experience to LA this summer (info below). We talk about how she likes to work with actors and how she helps them achieve their best work. Kirsten is clearly a director an actor would dream to work with but also to have as a guest. Please enjoy this episode.  Kirsten Sheridan’s website-  www.kirstensheridan.net  Summer workshop - www.bowstreet.ie/kirsten-sheridan-workshop  IG: @bowstreetacademy Time stamps (0:00) Intro (1:24) Kirsten Sheridan (3:11) Seeing the flaws of your old work (5:09) Cillian Murphy is an incredible actor (9:27) Pitfalls learning lessons as a young director (09:54) The big lesson Kirsten learned from her legendary director father (11:12) The worst thing a director can do (15:24) Growing up on film sets (18:20) How writing helped her find her voice (18:54) Starting a film acting school (21:11) In America (23:03) Imposter syndrome (24:26) Behind the scenes of In America (30:27) Building a community in LA (34:43) Hulu hit “Say Nothing” (41:11) Ireland’s tumultuous history (44:33) How to survive in the new industry of entertainment (49:26) Danny Devito and Troll Foot (50:24) Teaching classes and building community (56:07) Viciously protecting your craft like Cillian Murphy (57:51) Directing Robin Williams (1:00:35) How do you keep up with all the content? (1:03:09) The one piece of advice I always give actors (1:04:44) Finding the actors’ essence (1:08:44) What's next for Kirsten (1:10:49) Hidden gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, Episode 30! Both E-Kan and Rían are having excellent days with this recording, you’ll have to listen to hear why. E-Kan saw DeNiro speak and learned what it means to be a movie star. It was also the first time      E-Kan's sister sister was ever star struck. We talk about how the game has changed since DeNiro was coming up and a little about the pros and cons of self-tapes. What are actors missing out on not going into the room anymore? Does it hurt them on set? We get onto a little bit about the process, memorizing lines, what we have found to be successful, and an interesting story about Anthony Hopkins and why he reads his script 200 times.  Then E-Kan talks about how he sets boundaries, avoids getting overwhelmed by the news cycle and what he's learned about the Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.    Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Hidden Gems:  Radio Bakery (NYC) @radiobakerynyc Line Learner App Anthony's Paint & Body Shop (Santa Monica) - https://www.yelp.com/biz/anthonys-paint-and-body-shop-santa-monica?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)   Walton Goggins video - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJaSWnKs9mB/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Anthony Hopkins Westworld video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kSGkGKwp9U The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck- https://www.amazon.com/Subtle-Art-Not-Giving-Counterintuitive/dp/0062457713 (00:00) Intro (05:08) Meeting DeNiro (09:04) How the industry has changed (10:50)The trap of self-tapes  (13:40) How important is memorizing lines (14:20) Anthony Hopkins' simple process (19:00) What works for us (26:00) How do you choose what to care about? And not get overwhelmed (28:40) The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck (30:00) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 29 of the Actor’s Guide to The End of the World! This one is PACKED. We have AI Regulations for actors, healthcare, and everyone else are in danger thanks to the folks in Congress. You'll hear what happened when E-Kan gave them a call this week.  E-Kan and Rían also go over the tentative SAG-Aftra commercial contract up for vote this week and everything actors need to know to make an informed decision and what major gains were achieved. Also why these contracts are important for all actors, whether you're in SAG-Aftra or not. They get on to the very polarizing talk about union, fi-core, non-union, and the rampant amount of non-union projects, especially commercials. Why is Fi-core so polarizing? Should there be a stigma around fi-core? We go DEEP on this.  Rian even drops some Ireland political history into the mix. You'll hear what casting site just got called out for using AI models on its site. OY it never ends.  Then they discuss the valuable lesson learned from Alan Rickman, who achieved major fame with his first movie role at age 41 in Die Hard which gets them on to the importance of having a life, staying in the game, and how to play the waiting game as an actor without being a victim. Both Rían and E-Kan share how fear and ego has held them back and what they're doing about it and the power of community. Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Hidden Gems:  AMC Discount Wednesdays and Tuesdays (with free Stubs membership) Griffith Observatory show (Los Angeles) https://griffithobservatory.org/explore/daily-programs/   (02:10) Congress tries to strip AI Regulations (04:15) E-Kan calls Congress (07:26) The ongoing AI debate (09:13) Casting site gets caught using AI models (12:00) SAG-Aftra Commercial Contract (14:15) How Streaming commercials pay out vs Linear TV (24:00) What is Fi-core? (28:55) Does Fi-core weaken the Union? (35:00) Is it wrong to work outside of LA? (37:10) Alan Rickman broke out at 41 (39:15) What is your idea of making it? (43:16) E-Kan faced his fear (44:20) Don’t wait for someone to reach down to you (45:00) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, episode 28! You asked for an episode on Trump’s tariffs, and you got it. E-Kan and Rían were intended to jump into political waters but it just so happens everyone and their mom was asking, and they couldn’t NOT talk about it. This is everything you need to know, what exactly was said, the surprising responses from those in the industry - IATSE, SAG-Aftra, the Teamsters, as well as Governor Newsom and Jon Voight, of all people.  Rían battle a headache while E-Kan digs into Jon Voight’s proposal to reinvigorate the US Hollywood industry.. and dare we say, Make America Film Again… This is going to get wild. They also open up about how do you stay informed without getting bogged down with the depressing news cycle? E-Kan found a silver lining and some benefits in learning a little more about what makes our industry run, or in some ways, not run. Also, the first American pope got announced, and you will hear the crazy connection E-Kan has with him. Then Rían and E-Kan dig into the social dynamic on set- should you be social and chat with everyone or keep your distance, stay on set or break away to your trailer? The guys discuss what works for them and what they prefer, and the unnamed star who absolutely did NOT talk to him. Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack.   https://deadline.com/2025/05/trump-movie-tariffs-hollywood-1236384980/ https://deadline.com/2025/05/sag-aftra-reacts-trump-film-tariffs-1236385594/ https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/president-trump-gavin-newsom-film-tariffs-tax-credit/ https://abc7.com/post/governor-gavin-newsom-offers-work-trump-75-billion-tax-credit-proposal-boost-us-films/16339525/ https://deadline.com/2025/05/jon-voight-hollywood-plan-read-in-full-trump-tariffs-1236387042/ NYC increases tax credit -  https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/new-york-aims-large-scale-producers-indie-projects-film-subsidy-boost-1236212240/ Texas increases tax credit- https://www.texastribune.org/2025/03/31/texas-film-television-incentive-fund/ Hidden Gems- Yellow mangoes. Don’t knock it if you haven’t tried it. Capital One Cafes - (NYC, LA) (00:00) Intro (01:00) E-Kan’s Pope story (05:10) Trump’s Tariffs (08:30) Union’s response (11:40) What Governor Newsom has to say (13:35) Jon Voigt’s proposal (22:00) How do you not overwhelmed by the news? (26:00) Stay on set in between takes? (30:40) The one rule on set (35:00) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 27 of the Actor’s Guide to The End of the World! Apologies for the late upload, but this one is packed and well worth the wait.  This episode was recorded BEFORE Trump announced possible tariffs on foreign film production, but coincidentally this episode we discuss the complexities of the current entertainment industry and whether it is a Hollywood vs the World issue. So apparently we do predict the future... more to come.  E-Kan tells us what he thought about the hottest show on Broadway, Glengarry Glen Ross, starring Bon Odenkirk, Kieran Culkin, Bill Burr, and Rían’s friend John Pirruccello- make sure to listen to our Hidden Gems at the end of the episode to hear how he snagged them! There’s positive news for the California film industry and Stay In LA as two crucial bills to reform film tv tax credits just got pushed through to the next round, but there's still a long road ahead. The guys dig into the fierce competition for film and tv production across the world and the deeper issue - Is California taking Hollywood for granted? Who's to blame for what's happening in Hollywood, and does anyone else care? Does Hollywood deserve to be protected? And did E-Kan really compare the Hollywood industry to the great pyramids of Egypt? Yes he did. Jeremy Renner walks away from Season 2 of Hawkeye because Disney offered half of what he made the first season and calls them "penny pinchers". Is this an actor fighting for what he's worth or just entitlement? And how is this relevant to the working actor? E-Kan and Rían differ in opinion and it'll make you think.  And E-Kan shares insights from a panel with two of TV's top directors, one of which directed him on Bosch: Legacy. Some things discussed- what a director's job SHOULD be, the differences between film and tv, how much say do they have in who gets cast.  But the burning question on Rían's mind - what does "holding space" actually mean? Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Hidden Gems:  Glengarry Glen Ross $45 tickets (listen to the end) Da Michele Pizza in Hollywood - https://damicheleusa.com/ (00:00) Intro (02:30) Glengarry Glen Ross (05:50) Two Film/TV bills get pushed up in California (06:50) Stay in LA Rally  (11:18) Is California taking Hollywood for granted? (13:00) Hollywood vs the World  (17:20) Is Hollywood still an institution? (18:40) Jeremy Renner walks away from Hawkeye (22:30) TV Director Panel (28:30) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 26! E-Kan has come back from his travels - you’ll hear what far off place he visited and why he prefers a little danger on his trips. Ryan Coogler, Sinners, and its huge opening weekend are all the talk in Hollywood, but is it getting enough credit? And why is it making Hollywood studios scared? E-Kan and Rían break down Coogler’s unique deal with the studio, why it’s so special, and whether we should expect to see more of the same in Hollywood. Then E-Kan talks about his recent experience going to an industry screening and reception with Michael Fassbender, Richard Gere, and Jeffrey Wright, and how weird the energy is at networking events. This gets them on the question actors cannot escape- “So what have you been in?”. They break down why it’s so hated and what we can learn from it. We’re back in the saddle, everyone, and this one goes deep. Email us at @actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com Follow us on YouTube, Substack, and all social media @actorsguidepodcast! Kara Mayer Robinson’s podcast “Really Famous” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/really-famous-with-kara-mayer-robinson/id1231521180 Sinner’s box office success -https://movieweb.com/sinners-ryan-coogler-warner-bros-ownership-dealexplained/#:~:text=Coogler%20isn't%20the%20first,Upon%20a%20Time%20in%20Hollywood https://www.npr.org/2025/04/25/nx-s1-5375043/why-the-box-office-hit-sinners-is-making-waves-in-hollywood Hidden Gems: Woody Harrelson’s the Woods Cafe - https://thewoodsweho.com/ Mint Pearls for travel and nausea - https://www.daburinternational.com/uae/product/dabur-pudin-hara-pearls   Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:30) E-Kan's travels (08:00) Coogler and Sinners box office success (10:10) Breaking down Coogler's deal (14:30) Variety gets called out (18:45) The Agency panel with Fassbender (21:30) The question actors hate (24:45) Are actors more zen? (27:20) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 25! This is the Self-care Episode, also another change of pace episode. This is random unreleased goodies from previous episodes. Some things you’ll hear in this conversation -  why this podcast is therapeutic for E-Kan and Rían, the power of writing things down, things we can’t stand, Artists’ Way and Morning pages, and why Rían hates hot baths. Also, E-Kan and Rían will discuss reality tv show guilty pleasures, and the blurred line between documentary and reality tv. And is reality tv underrated? Rían will talk about his early experience working for a tv station and if you stick around, you’ll hear about the time that Sinead O’Connor sneezed on him. We get wild on this one. Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:42) Writing is Thinking (02:45) Morning Pages (05:15) Rían can't handle a hot bath (09:05) The importance of getting into the right brain (11:45) Reality TV vs Documentary (14:15) Reality TV to unionize? (17:45) Rían went to the Price is Right (20:37) E-Kan went to see the Daily Show (23:50) Rían meets Sinead O'Connor

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 24! This episode is also a change of pace from previous episodes - unreleased footage that got cut from a previous episode.  E-Kan and Rían discuss the unique and intense bond actors and crew make shooting a production, and are these relationships real or fake? Also why being on set is very much like a dinner party, as E-Kan likes to call it. E-Kan then has a flashback to his worst on set experience, and they describe what makes a bad set, as well as wonder why background actors get treated so poorly.  And why it's helpful to think of actors as the head of the Acting Department on set.  This episode gets real, ya’ll. What do you think of E-Kan’s story? What’s your worst on set experience? Email us at @actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com Follow us on YouTube, Substack, and all social media @actorsguidepodcast! Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:51) The unique relationships made on set  (05:00) Are these relationships on set real or fake? (08:48) E-Kan's worst on-set experience (12:00) There's no excuse for treating background actors badly on set (17:50) Why Christian Bale might have a point  (18:35) We're the Acting Department (23:30) Acting can be a grind (24:50) The differences between a bad day at your side job and on set  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, episode 23! This episode is going to be little different than our past episodes - E-Kan will be doing some traveling so for a few weeks, we will mix together our best hits, a few of our favorite segments from past episodes -  in case you missed it or if you're still catching up.  We have some a lot of new stuff coming for the podcast, follow us wherever you find your podcasts, Youtube Substack, on all social media @actorsguidepodcast.  This episode, you'll hear about the time Rían almost got scammed by a big tech company that was, ahem, targeting the Irish? How dare they. Take care of your data, people!  Then an excerpt from Episode 10, the guys will dissect actors' tricky relationship with money, balancing side jobs with their passion, and E-Kan talks about how actors can learn from Silicon Valley tech entrepeneurs. They share personal stories about juggling odd end jobs over the years and lessons they’ve learned along the way. Actors, this might change how you look at your career.  Then, from Episode 3, the guys talk pivotal life changing moments, including how E-Kan first got past his ego and started creating things on YouTube. It was a big shift in mindset and changed everything for him, including his life and career. Rían also describes how a life event changed his mindset. They also discuss how fame has changed and been democratized with the internet in this new age of Hollywood.   

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 22! The podcast has hit a small milestone, and E-Kan and Rían will discuss the significance of getting to its 22nd episode and a shocking statistic of how many people quit. E-Kan also talks about what actors can learn from YouTubers about building a brand and dealing with the creative grind, and the biggest misconception about building an audience. If you’re getting burnt out from the marathon of being a creative, this is the episode for you. Also this week Rob Lowe had some fiery criticisms of the lack of production in Hollywood and said LA should be fired. Does he have a point? E-Kan and Rían also discuss what the bigger story is about his comments that everyone is missing. Rob Lowe coincidentally is shooting a show in Dublin, and the guys discuss how the city is booming with production right now. Is Dublin going to take over Hollywood? And the bigger question - is that a good thing? They also talk about how, despite the recent positive news about California’s film and tv tax credits, a filmmaker named Cat Rhinehart has a heartbreaking story of getting rejected for CA Film tax credit three times… And if you stick around, you’ll also hear why many think 1 podcast subscriber equals 1000 followers on Instagram. This is going to be a good one… Send us your questions actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on YouTube, Substack, and all social media @actorsguidepodcast! Links:  https://www.reddit.com/r/podcasting/comments/1jjmjot/how_long_did_it_take_you_to_get_to_a_1000/ https://www.reddit.com/r/podcasting/comments/xn3crs/90_of_podcasts_dont_publish_more_than_3_episodes/ Rob Lowe interview with Adam Scott- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ELn-95HeRE Filmmaker Cat Rhinehart video about CA tax credit  -https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHKEmNNygtS/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Hidden gems- https://newbridgehouseandfarm.com/ Capri Club - https://capriclublosangeles.com/ner.com/products/sal-suds-biodegradable-cleaner?srsltid=AfmBOormctFIcl9lQ3AJZd_ejc9q20QuVNFjTynNd3UF7sdGQm9HmrmF Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (04:10) Rob Lowe says LA should be fired (08:00) The most surprising thing about Rob Lowe’s comments (10:50) Filmmaker gets denied for tax credits three times (13:30) Dublin taking over Hollywood? (14:20) The problem with studios going international (17:30) How many podcasts fail (21:00) What can actors learn from the YouTubers (23:30) How actors should measure their growth (27:30) Why podcasts followers are stronger than social media followers (30:20) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 21! This is our Indie Film episode and we get to a lot of gems that didn’t make it during award season. There was also some backlash from crew members of Oscar darling, Anora. What really happened on set? And was Sean Baker anti-union? We get into the story and talk about the tricky line where independent film is today as well as why unions are so important for artists. Also, they discuss how the film Sing Sing, the true story of inmates starting a rehabilitative theater program at the Sing Sing prison, experimented with a new financial model for their film - they paid everyone the SAME - all cast and crew, plus they got equity and points on the backend. The filmmakers are trying to revolutionize the film world and are launching a company to do it more. This is an incredible idea, and the guys will talk about whether it might be a sing of things to come for the indie film world.  E-Kan and Rían also talk about the milestone California just hit with upcoming film and tv production talks about everything you need to know about what’s coming in the Golden State and how you can help. Information on Keep California Rolling below - nothing is guaranteed and we need to let our state representatives know how important this is. There’s also plenty of love for inspirational actors like Colman Domingo, and E-Kan and Rían get into a discussion on a quote from Meryl Streep - Are actors more Zen? And how has acting made E-Kan a better person?   This is a good one, folks! Send us your questions actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on YouTube, Substack, and all social media @actorsguidepodcast! Links:  https://keepcaliforniarolling.org/ Ekan’s video on California production https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHZgkUmSgZI/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/03/19/while-other-states-chase-hollywood-california-locks-in-record-breaking-film-slate/   Sing Sing paid everyone the same - https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/sing-sing-filmmakers-paid-everyone-on-set-the-same-1235945503/ Anora controversy -https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/anora-iatse-union-set-1236162501/ https://www.indiewire.com/features/interviews/can-sing-sing-pay-equity-model-save-indie-film-interview-1235079671/ "Rust" Documentary - https://press.hulu.com/shows/last-take-rust-and-the-story-of-halyna/ Hidden Gems:  Bear Market Coffee in Dublin https://www.bearmarket.ie/pages/blackrock-coffee-shop?srsltid=AfmBOopW3nRPRTuOYiGPZriIFFgM2RpmB7Hu9Pe-fIpwrPaFU5YSmTmv Dr. Bronner’s Salsuds https://www.drbronner.com/products/sal-suds-biodegradable-cleaner?srsltid=AfmBOormctFIcl9lQ3AJZd_ejc9q20QuVNFjTynNd3UF7sdGQm9HmrmF   Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (02:55) California hits record (06:28) Sing Sing filmmakers experiment with new pay model (11:20) Why we love Colman Domingo (14:25) Anora backlash (19:45) Gwyneth Paltrow comments on Intimacy Coordinator (21:43) Why we need unions (27:20) Are actors more zen? (28:50) E-Kan thought acting would make him a better person (31:00) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 20! There’s a viral article circulating comparing Hollywood’s reaction to Jeremy Strong’s compared to “golden boy” of the moment, Kieran Culkin (article link below). If you weren’t aware, Jeremy Strong is deeply passionate about the craft of acting and the reaction is mixed. If you’re watching on YouTube, you’ll see the picture from 1993 when he was waiting outside the Oscars to watch the actors and actresses enter the ceremony. Adorable or mortifying? E-Kan and Rían will be the judge.    E-Kan and Rían discuss the comparison - is being passionate about the craft and caring too much unsexy, almost cringey? Is having ambition uncool?  Also getting some side eye was Timothy Chalamet’s SAG Awards speech. What can actors learn from these actors, and how does likability fall into play? What does this tell us about society and even politics and dating? They also dig into the recent developments of a billion dollar studio expansion in Los Angeles and what Rick Caruso has to say about it and why he's filing a lawsuit against it. Everything you to know about a pivotal project for the Hollywood's future.  The guys also launch their newest segment - The Week in Reddit! They go through the Acting Reddit thread for the best (and maybe the worst) questions and insights. Is it genius? Toxic? It's Reddit! Send us your questions actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com!   Hidden Gems:  https://www.eltondrinks.com/ Report on Plastics in common day foods- https://www.plasticlist.org/ Links:  Jeremy Strong/Kieran Culkin Substack Article, thatfinalscene.com - https://substack.com/@itssophieschoice/p-158233281 https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/23/entertainment/jeremy-strong-oscar-nomination/index.html Jeremy Strong Q/A - https://youtu.be/SM4vf6oskw8?si=Yv4Z05Z_21D-rDjk Timothy Chalamet SAG Awards speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4P50UQeIL4o Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (03:05) Rick Caruso vs Hollywood (05:40) Jeremy Strong - Kieran Culkin debate (09:13) Status is ease (14:30) Ambition is unsexy? (19:45) The Best in Reddit (21:46) Self-tape vs In person (28:00) Hidden gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide Podcast, Episode 19! This is the big Oscars recap as well as our favorite moments of Awards season, including our very first Actor's Guide Podcast Awards (they're not real but special nonetheless). How did Conan O’Brien do his first time hosting the Oscars? Biggest Shock? Biggest Cringe? Favorite Couple? (Not who you're expecting).  And of course we had to talk about Adrien Brody... which gets E-Kan and Rían on their favorite speeches and the power of brevity, whether you're giving an Oscars speech or writing an Instagram post.  Admittedly we thought some of the moments this season were better than the films, and many of them were provided by Kieran Culkin. Did you know that Jesse Eisenberg never saw any of Culkin's work before casting him in A Real Pain? We discuss it, and it might change how you look at your social media and branding. Does anyone remember the time Kieran Culkin took a dig at Adrien Brody taking up too much time at the podium at the SAG Awards, BEFORE the Oscars? We did. You can't write this stuff.  The guys get into a deep conversation about actors’ process and where’s the line between having doing your best work while also not alienating or annoying your fellow actors. This is a good one, everyone!    https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/adrien-brody-record-longest-speech-oscars-2025-1236153234/ Jeremy Strong Interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SM4vf6oskw8 Eisenberg on Kieran Culkin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hu80XNnRjpw Kieran Culkin and Colman Domingo interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBKUDVZlLdI Hidden Gems:  Hi Tech Golf - https://supersocial.ie/games/hi-tech-golf/ Chase Lounge at LaGuardia - https://www.chase.com/personal/credit-cards/education/basics/guide-to-the-chase-sapphire-lounge-at-laguardia-airport   Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (02:20) New CA Bills and Keep California Rolling (03:20) First Oscar reactions (06:13) Biggest Shock (07:50) Biggest Loser (09:00) Anora  (10:46) Adrien Brody (12:20) Our favorite speeches ever (14:50) The power of brevity  (16:50) What we can learn from Adrien Brody (19:50) Why we love Kieran Culkin (22:12) Our favorite couple (26:30) When Kieran took a shot at Adrien Brody (27:16) Cutest Moment (29:30) Jeremy Strong and an actor's process (34:45) Kieran Culkin on actors as storytellers (37:20) Eisenberg saw none of Culkin's work before casting him (39:36) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, Episode 18! This was recorded BEFORE the Academy Awards, that’s life when you release on Mondays. E-Kan and Rían take a look at the Oscar favorites and even betting lines, so now you can step back into the future and look at what could’ve been, and who really made some money on the upsets. And how much money would you have made if you bet on Mikey Madison to win Best Actress? And Anora?  Be sure to stick around, you’ll hear the story of why Rían will never gamble again. Also, more big things are coming out of Hollywood- two new bills (SB 630 and AB 1138) were announced to augment Newsom’s Film TV Tax credit proposal for CA, and just announced is the newest movement, Keep California Rolling, gearing up for lobbying to state lawmakers. This will be everything you will need to know about what Newsom and California are doing to keep productions in Los Angeles. E-Kan and Rían will also discuss Sean Baker’s beautiful speech at the Film Independent Spirit Awards, which was a love letter to indie film but also a warning signal and rally cry for other independent filmmakers. Personal, candid, and eye opening, he talked about the troubling financial landscape as an indie filmmaker, Hollywood should take note. He also called himself an “indie film lifer” and the guys discuss if they can call themselves a “lifer” of anything. You'll also hear what E-Kan would do if he wasn't acting.  New episodes every Monday! All shows are on YouTube and Substack as well!  Let us know what you think. Email us at actorsguidepodcast@gmail.com. Follow us on all social media @actorsguidepodcast https://variety.com/2025/film/news/entertainment-union-coalition-keep-california-rolling-production-1236322768/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/california-film-and-tv-tax-incentive-bills-1236148381/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/unions-california-film-tv-tax-credit-expansion-1236149638/ https://www.actionnetwork.com/entertainment/oscar-odds-2025-betting-lines-favorites-for-best-picture-best-actor-more-at-academy-awards Sean Baker Speech Film Independent Spirit Awards - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIxtMGRlx0k Hidden Gems:  Riff Raff (2024) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNtKUBrNWNE Han Dynasty (NYC) - 90 3rd Ave, NYC Time stamps: (00:00) Intro (03:00) New CA Bills and Keep California Rolling (05:00) Oscar favorites and betting lines (07:13) Why Rían stopped gambling (09:40) More Oscar favorites (11:45) EGOT (12:30) Sean Baker's epic speech  (17:00) What would do if you weren't acting?  (25:25) Hidden Gems