How Do Casting Directors Spot Star Potential? Award-Winning Julia Kim Reveals Her Process

Jimmy Akingbola is a versatile and celebrated actor born in the UK to Nigerian parents. Best known for his portrayal of Geoffrey in Bel Air, his credits include Arrow, The Tower, Most Dangerous Game, Ted Lasso, Benidorm, This Is Gonna Hurt, and In The Long Run. Beyond acting, his documentary Handle With Care has gained critical acclaim, and he founded the Triforce Creative Network to discover and promote diverse talent. TIMESTAMPS: 00:01:40: Defining Success & "Making It" in Acting 00:08:20: Audition Preparation & Technique 00:19:10: Bel Air Experience 00:34:40: Entrepreneurship & Giving Back 00:54:50: Industry Insights & Career Advice 01:09:00: Final Thoughts & Life Balance CONNECT WITH JIMMY AKINGBOLA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmyakingbola/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-akingbola-64719325/ Website: jimmyakingbola.com/ (Personal) triforcepromotions.co.uk/ (Company) GET MORE FROM THE WE AUDITION SHOW: Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate/review on Apple Podcasts. Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com

In this episode, we sat down with Mitra Ahouraian, an entertainment lawyer based in Beverly Hills who represents some of the top creatives, producers, and financiers from Hollywood and beyond. Hosts Richard Cambridge and Darren Darnborough explore fundamental topics including when actors need a lawyer, understanding contracts, and managing social media legally. Mitra shares invaluable insights from her extensive experience negotiating and drafting deals across film, television, music, and publishing. EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction to Mitra Ahouraian 05:00 - When Actors Need Legal Representation 14:00 - Understanding Entertainment Contracts 20:00 - Working with Friends & Independent Projects 34:00 - Fee Structures & Legal Costs 42:00 - Social Media Best Practices 50:00 - NDAs and Content Sharing Guidelines 54:00 - Behind the Scenes of Entertainment Law CONNECT WITH MITRA AHOURAIAN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitraesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitraahouraian/ Website: http://ahouraianlaw.com/ GET MORE FROM THE WE AUDITION SHOW: Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate/review on Apple Podcasts. Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com

Andrea Guo is an Austrian actor whose talent and dedication have propelled her to success across German and international film and television. In this episode with hosts Richard Cambridge and Darren Darnborough, she talks about filming the second season of her hit series Maxton Hall, her experience working on Frank Doelger's "The Swarm," and her journey breaking cultural barriers in European media. The conversation delves into her unique approach to manifesting career goals through vision boarding, managing sudden success, and why she believes you don't need Hollywood to make inspiring movies. She also opens up about balancing multiple projects, her aspirations to work in Asian cinema, and the importance of maintaining authenticity while navigating international markets. EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Current Projects and Filming in Berlin 02:00 - Success of Maxton Hall and Second Season 04:00 - Managing Work-Life Balance in Entertainment 13:00 - Social Media and Fan Engagement 21:30 - Breaking Into International Markets 30:00 - Vision Boarding and Career Manifestation 41:00 - Representation in European Television 48:00 - Future Projects and Asian Market Aspirations CONNECT WITH ANDREA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreaguo_/?hl=en IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm11046207/ Management: https://www.ohey-mgmt.de/andreaguo GET MORE FROM THE WE AUDITION SHOW: Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate/review on Apple Podcasts. Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com

In this episode, we had a candid conversation with Carrie Bernans that will transform how you think about breaking into the entertainment industry. Beyond her impressive credits as a stunt performer in Marvel blockbusters like Black Panther and Avengers: Endgame, Bernans delivers actionable insights about navigating both East and West Coast markets, building multiple revenue streams, and turning setbacks into comebacks. Her inspiring story, including a recent life-changing accident and her philanthropic work helping over 1,200 families, demonstrates how to create meaningful impact while succeeding in entertainment. Whether you're an aspiring actor, stunt performer, or filmmaker, this episode delivers actionable strategies from someone who's mastered the art of turning setbacks into opportunities. EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00: The Ultimate Entertainment Industry Breakthrough Guide 01:30: Surviving Career Crisis: A Recovery Story 04:00: The Professional Comeback Strategy 13:00: Film Festival Career Tips 21:30: Building Your Stunt Career 42:00: Life Inside Marvel's Black Panther 54:30: Power Networking That Actually Works 59:00: Smart Union Career Decisions 1:03:00: Creating Social Impact Through Entertainment 1:06:30: Navigating Major Film Festivals USEFUL LINKS Reach Carrie at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carriebernans/?hl=en IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7736654/ Website: https://carriebernans.com/ GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple. Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com

Cassandra Freeman, an accomplished actress and educator known for her roles in Inside Man, Luke Cage, Atlanta, and Peacock’s Bel-Air, joins us in this episode of The WeAudition Show. Hosted by Darren Darnborough and Richard Cambridge, Cassandra reflects on her career journey, from overcoming self-doubt during auditions to becoming a series regular as Aunt Viv on Bel-Air. In this candid conversation, she shares the importance of embracing collaboration, maintaining authenticity, and balancing work with family life across coasts. Cassandra also dives into her passion for teaching and her nonprofit work with the Cassandra Arts Project, which empowers children through creativity. She provides valuable insights into the audition process, emphasizing the significance of preparation and trusting your unique perspective. With humor and depth, Cassandra talks about her experiences working with industry legends like Denzel Washington and Spike Lee, sharing how staying true to yourself can lead to lasting career success. Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Cassandra Freeman and her career highlights 01:38 - Discussion of Cassandra's role as Aunt Viv in Bel Air and managing a bi-coastal life 03:32 - The casting process for Bel Air and Cassandra's initial hesitation 05:34 - Insights on embracing one's unique qualities in auditions 10:28 - Cassandra's experience auditioning for Inside Man with Denzel Washington 13:19 - The rollercoaster nature of an acting career and managing the "meantime" 17:37 - The creation of Creatricity and its purpose in the entertainment industry 23:57 - Advice for new actors on set and making an impact in smaller roles 35:57 - The concept of "calling in" roles and visualizing career goals 41:31 - Changes in the entertainment industry over the past 20 years 47:11 - The importance of adaptability and finding alternative avenues for creativity 50:25 - Reframing success and maintaining passion in acting 56:00 - Cassandra's advice to her younger self before her first big job USEFUL LINKS  Reach Cassandra Freeman at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassiedamsel IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1904386/ GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition   Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com 

Joivan Wade, a multi-talented actor, entrepreneur, and producer, known for his roles in Doom Patrol, The First Purge, and Doctor Who, joins us in this episode of the WeAudition Show, hosted by Darren Darnborough and Richard Cambridge. Joivan shares his incredible journey from co-creating the hit YouTube series Mandem on the Wall to building the successful digital platform, Wall of Entertainment, which has amassed billions of views. He also reflects on his breakthrough role as Cyborg in Doom Patrol, which propelled him into the Hollywood spotlight. In this episode, Joivan opens up about the challenges and triumphs of balancing his acting career with entrepreneurship. He discusses the importance of creating your own opportunities, particularly in an industry as competitive as entertainment. Joivan’s candid insights on overcoming setbacks, such as the loss of a massive social media following, and how he rebuilt his brand with resilience and innovation, serve as a testament to his dedication. He also offers valuable advice for actors on self-taping, networking, and navigating the digital space. Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Joivan Wade  01:14 - Joivan Wade's Career Shift  02:12 - The Brit School Experience  03:26 - YouTube Sensation: The Creation of "Mandem on the Wall"  05:22 - Harnessing Social Media for Success  06:42 - From YouTube to TV Stardom  09:08 - Joivan's Advice for Aspiring Actors  10:15 - Building the Wall of Comedy  12:34 - Turning Content into a Business  17:49 - Resilience and Comebacks  21:00 - Balancing Acting and Entrepreneurship  26:43 - Landing Major Roles: From "The First Purge" to Playing Cyborg in "Doom Patrol"  27:42 - Industry Networking Tips  32:05 - The 80/20 Principle for Success  33:32 - Leadership and Delegation  39:02 - Reinvesting in Yourself  40:30 - Networking Secrets to Succeed in Hollywood  44:25 - The Power of Helping Others  51:12 - Joivan Wade’s Legacy Vision  USEFUL LINKS  Reach Joivan Wade at:  Website: https://www.plus1network.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joivanwade  IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4725341  GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition   Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com

Julia Kim, an award-winning casting director known for her work on films like Minari and The Last Black Man in San Francisco, joins us in this episode of The WeAudition Show, hosted by Darren Darnborough and Richard Cambridge. Julia shares her insights on the importance of diversity in casting, the evolution of Asian representation in Hollywood, and her role in pushing boundaries in the industry. From navigating the casting process during the pandemic to ensuring authenticity in storytelling, Julia gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to cast groundbreaking projects like Apple TV’s Sunny and Amazon's Expats, starring Nicole Kidman.  In this episode, Julia Kim opens up about her journey in casting, her efforts to foster inclusivity through projects like invAsianLA, and the challenges of virtual auditions. She also reflects on her passion for discovering new talent and how the casting industry is evolving to better represent diverse voices. Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction and background of Julia Kim  01:00 - Transitioning from casting for films to high-profile TV series  02:20 - Casting during the pandemic and the rise of virtual auditions  03:31 - Collaboration with local casting directors for international projects  05:50 - How actors can transition between genres, from comedy to drama  07:16 - Benefits of self-tapes and how they’ve transformed the casting process  09:20 - Casting immigrant stories and ensuring authenticity  13:32 - invAsianLA: Julia’s initiative to support underrepresented talent in Hollywood  17:03 - The eureka moment in finding the right actor for a role  19:35 - Casting process for high-profile projects like "Expats" starring Nicole Kidman  21:39 - Casting child actors and the role of their parents in the process  24:00 - The Importance of building trust between casting directors and actors  25:32 - Casting untapped talent outside the usual agencies  28:46 - Casting new talent for "Minari" and working with non-actors  30:05 - Balancing multiple takes and staying present in auditions  32:16 - Tips for actors submitting multiple takes in self-tapes  33:40 - Importance of authenticity in headshots for casting  36:38 - The role of short films in building acting experience and showcasing talent  39:54 - Legacy and reflections: Julia’s role in changing Hollywood’s diversity landscape  50:47 - Final thoughts: The importance of recognition for casting directors and the future of casting  USEFUL LINKS  Reach Julia Kim at:  Website: https://castingbyjuliakim.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castingbyjuliakim  IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0453547  GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition   Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com 

In this special edition of the WeAudition Show, we bring you exclusive interviews from the Pre-Emmy Red Carpet event at the iconic Sky Bar in West Hollywood, guest-hosted by Isabelle Du. This vibrant celebration, leading up to the 76th Emmy Awards, gathered actors, producers, and members of the WeAudition community to celebrate one of Hollywood's biggest nights. Isabelle engages with actors, casting directors, and producers, highlighting their experiences with WeAudition and their journeys in the entertainment industry.  Guests share their personal stories, including their experiences with self-tapes, audition strategies, and advice for aspiring actors. From networking tips to encouraging words for those new to the industry, this episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to navigate Hollywood’s entertainment landscape.  Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to the WeAudition Red Carpet Pre-Emmys Party  00:23 - Isabelle Du welcoming guests and interviewing at the event  00:34 - Actress Nicole Spry: Benefits of WeAudition and using virtual readers  01:36 - Evelyn: Acting in L.A. and celebrating the Pre-Emmys  02:30 - Yannick Ngurambila: Transitioning from acting in France to Los Angeles  04:41 - Caroline Stoughton: First-time meeting in person and WeAudition community tips  06:07 - Giovanna Salas: Importance of headshots and advice for aspiring actors  07:27 - Lily: Podcast insights and using virtual readers for auditions  09:47 - Teddy Moutinho: Using WeAudition for last-minute auditions  11:44 - Mick Blue and Michael Matteo Rossi: Collaboration on the sci-fi action film "Sensor Addiction"  16:42 - Shaun Holmes: Joining We Audition and finding readers quickly  19:03 - Kikéy Castillo: Choosing readers and regularly using We Audition  21:11 - Caitlin and Chris: Moving to L.A. and auditioning with fellow actors  22:28 - Neil Bentley Fierro: Building international connections through WeAudition  23:56 - Andi Lew: Red carpet tips and building industry relationships  25:35 - Renee Koch: Auditioning for "Cougar Circle" and using WeAudition  28:06 - Olga from LA Fashion Week: Fashion's role in building an actor's brand  30:31 - Jackie Dallas: WeAudition during the pandemic and member tips  33:46 - Joe Bell: Building relationships and using WeAudition effectively  36:10 - Rounding up key tips and experiences from the Pre-Emmys Red Carpet event  USEFUL LINKS  Host Isabelle Du: https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.du  Videographer Ngoc Lê: https://www.instagram.com/hey.ngoc  GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition  Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com 

Femi Oguns, one of the most influential talent agents in the UK and USA, joins us in this episode of the WeAudition Show, hosted by Darren Darnborough and Richard Cambridge. Femi, the founder of the Identity School of Acting and Identity Agency Group, has shaped the careers of stars like John Boyega, Letitia Wright, Damson Idris, and Michaela Coel. He reflects on his career in talent development, the significance of diversity in casting, and the importance of building genuine relationships with clients. Femi shares his journey from actor to agent, detailing how the lack of representation in drama schools inspired him to create a platform for diverse talent. He offers insights into the art of nurturing actors, the evolving dynamics of the industry, and how agents can best support talent, especially through challenges like the recent writers' and actors' strikes. He also discusses the differences between UK and US talent representation and how actors can build lasting careers. Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Femi Oguns 01:38 - Femi on starting as an actor and transitioning to agent work 03:49 - Partnership between Identity Agency Group and their talent 07:23 - Key truths actors need to know in the industry 12:45 - How UK agents collaborate with US agents for talent representation 16:44 - The process of packaging talent and projects 20:29 - Importance of being ready and patient as an actor 25:55 - How actors can decide on advancing from co-star to guest star roles 26:08 - Femi’s motivation: Watching clients succeed 28:15 - Importance of quality showreels for casting directors 31:23 - How the pandemic and strikes are changing the industry 32:45 - Femi's thoughts on AI in the entertainment industry 36:39 - The future of indie films in an AI-dominated landscape 41:19 - How to get involved with Identity School of Acting 44:26 - Final advice to actors: Value yourself and find the right representation USEFUL LINKS  Reach Femi Oguns at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrfemioguns  Twitter: https://x.com/MrFemiOguns  IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2796341/  GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition   Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com 

Steven Adams, an award-winning producer and talent manager, joins us in this insightful episode of the WeAudition Show, hosted by Darren Darnborough and Richard Cambridge. With a career spanning film, television, and visual effects, Steven is known for his work on Netflix’s Rodney King and as a co-founder of Alta Global Media. His impressive background includes visual effects work on blockbusters such as Avatar, Life of Pi, and The Artist, as well as managing a wide range of international talent.  In this episode, Steven discusses the importance of building authentic relationships in the entertainment industry, his philosophy on talent management, and how creativity and collaboration play crucial roles in success. He offers invaluable advice for actors on auditioning, the art of self-tapes, and what it means to truly nurture a career. From managing international clients to producing major films, Steven's insights are packed with takeaways for anyone pursuing a career in the entertainment world.  Segmented Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Steven Adams  01:48 - Building a global footprint through film festivals  03:26 - Navigating film festivals as an opportunity for talent  06:05 - Importance of long-standing industry relationships  07:28 - How fame is a byproduct of successful art  08:39 - Difference between a talent manager and an agent  10:29 - How the industry is shifting with streaming and international markets  14:08 - Importance of diversity in casting and storytelling  15:10 - Do actors still need to be in Hollywood to succeed?  18:29 – How the myths of Hollywood influence actor’s careers today  27:17 - Long-term commitment between managers and clients  29:42 - Understanding the business of acting and how to succeed  32:24 – Auditioning for the career, not just the role  34:50 – The key to delivering a powerful self-tape audition  49:13 - What’s next for Steven Adams and his upcoming projects  USEFUL LINKS  Reach Steven Adams at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altaglobal.media  Website: https://altaglobalmedia.net  IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0011377  GET MORE FROM THE WEAUDITION SHOW  Website: https://www.weaudition.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaudition  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAudition   Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.  Produced by The Big Possible http://thebigpossible.com