The Drama Coach Podcast

What do actors, casting directors, coaches and teachers keep saying again and again about building a sustainable life as a performer? In this slightly different episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, I’m bringing together some of the advice that has stayed with me most from conversations across the podcast so far. These aren’t simply “best bits”. They’re the lessons I genuinely think more performers need to hear - and several are things I wish I’d understood much earlier in my own career. We talk about audition mindset, casting decisions, acting technique, drama school, discipline and what it actually means to keep developing as an artist when you’re not currently booking jobs. You’ll hear insights from: Derek Barr, founder of The Acting Masters - on why your job in an audition is to do the work, rather than trying to get the job. Casting Director Rose Rosen - on the huge number of factors involved in building a cast, and why not booking a role does not automatically mean your audition wasn’t good. Eric Geynes - on preparation, acting technique, making choices and ultimately learning to let the work go. Helen Goldwyn - on knowing your character deeply enough that you don’t need to “show” us that you’re acting. Adam Stadius from Getting to Drama School - on why training gives you technique rather than talent, and why drama school is only one route into the industry. Ned Drews - on discipline, motivation and the importance of continuing to show up even when you’re not performing at your absolute best. The big message running through all of it? Prepare. Train. Stay curious. Take the work seriously. But don’t confuse one casting decision with a verdict on your talent, anxiety with commitment, or endless preparation with better acting. And don’t spend your creative life waiting for somebody else to tell you that you’re officially allowed to call yourself a performer. If one of these guests particularly resonates with you, you can find their full conversations in previous episodes of The Drama Coach Podcast. I’ll also add direct episode links here as they become available. Follow The Drama Coach: Instagram TikTok YouTube Follow Lisa: Instagram LinkedIn If you know an actor, young performer, parent or drama teacher who would find this episode useful, please share it with them. Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

What makes a performer genuinely brilliant to work with? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast , Lisa is joined by director Rob Holder for a fascinating look at what’s happening on the other side of the camera. Drawing on more than 16 years of directing experience across commercials, branded content and film, Rob shares what directors need from performers - from being directable and camera-aware to understanding the pressures and practicalities of a busy set. We explore why being a great actor is only one part of being great to work with, and how communication, flexibility, professionalism and collaboration can make an enormous difference. Rob also explains why actors may be asked to repeat or completely change something that appears to be working perfectly, and how understanding shot size, eyelines, marks and physical continuity can make you more confident on camera. In this episode: What directors mean when they say an actor was "brilliant to work with" What being directable actually looks like Why giving a genuinely different option matters Adjusting your performance for a wide, mid-shot or close-up Why tiny thoughts and reactions can read beautifully on camera Marks, eyelines, focus and physical awareness Why something can feel strange to an actor but look right on camera The difference between drama, commercials and branded content Why commercial performances can combine emotion with precise physical actions What actors often don't see about the pressures facing a director and crew How to ask questions without disrupting the momentum of a shoot Why communication matters when something isn't working Being present and professional without needing to be at the centre of everything Why observing a set can be one of the best ways to learn Preparing thoroughly while remaining flexible when plans change Why rejection often has more to do with the casting brief than your performance Rob's memorable "body outline" analogy for understanding casting Why one great self-tape can lead to other opportunities Advice for young performers moving from theatre training onto screen Why sometimes the best thing a young actor can do is put the "performing" away and simply be themselves Encouragement for actors beginning their careers later in life One particularly useful takeaway from Rob is that actors don't need to understand every technical element of filmmaking - but awareness of shot size, eyeline and what the camera needs from you can make a huge difference. And when you're not needed? You don't have to prove how keen you are by constantly being in the middle of the action. Be ready, be professional, observe, learn - and step forward when needed. Rob also shares details of his upcoming found-footage police thriller and plans to document the journey from development and casting through to production and distribution. Follow the project here: Suspect Movie Newsletter A final note from Rob - what directors owe performers Rob also shared a few thoughts after recording on the responsibility directors have towards performers: Clarity - answering questions and giving enough context around why something is being repeated or approached in a particular way, including things like shot size, pace and performance specifics. Kindness - sets can be pressured environments, but civility and friendliness make a huge difference. A safe working space - giving performers room to explore, play and commit without unnecessary judgement or distraction, while keeping the wider set focused and supportive. For more acting tips, industry conversations and support for performers: Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @thedramacoach Listen and subscribe to The Drama Coach Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. SceneTribe - create your profile - It’s free for life before May ‘27 Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

Your child has said, “I want to be an actor!” But what comes next? Drama classes? An agent? Headshots? Spotlight? And do you really need all of it straight away? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast , Lisa Southam helps parents make sense of those first steps, with practical advice and a reassuring reminder: there is no rush. From finding opportunities to learn to supporting auditions and handling disappointment, this episode is about helping your child develop at their own pace while protecting their enjoyment of performing. In this episode, Lisa covers: Starting with your child’s love of acting and the work it involves. Why training and experience come before chasing representation. Choosing what your child needs now, without buying everything at once. Understanding how audition opportunities happen and what agents can realistically do. Recognising emotional and practical readiness for representation. Supporting self-tapes without becoming your child’s director. Getting familiar with licences, schooling, safeguarding and the questions parents should ask. Keeping drama fun and making room for other interests. Responding to rejection in a way that builds confidence and resilience. Letting go of comparisons with other young performers. An agent represents the performer; they don’t create the performer. The starting point is somewhere your child can learn, explore and enjoy acting. Whether performing becomes a profession or remains a much-loved hobby, the confidence, creativity, communication and teamwork developed through drama have value far beyond an audition. Explore the podcast’s back catalogue for more on agents, casting platforms, self-tapes, safety and training. If this episode helped you, follow The Drama Coach Podcast wherever you listen, and leave a rating or review to help other parents and performers find the show. Music: Soft Music 295878 by Nastelbom from Pixaby

What actually happens after you send a self-tape? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast , I’m joined by casting director Rose Rosen, CSA , host and creator of Casting Confidential , for an open and refreshingly straightforward conversation about what really happens on the other side of the casting process. Rose takes us behind the scenes of casting - from receiving a breakdown and watching hundreds of tapes, to deciding which actors move forward to producers and directors. Most importantly, she reminds performers that casting isn’t about ranking actors from best to worst. It’s about building a cast - and chemistry, age, appearance, scheduling and countless other factors can influence a decision. We talk about: What a casting director actually does What happens to your self-tape after you press send Why your tape is not disappearing into a void Why a brilliant audition still might not lead to the role Why “the audition is the job” What Rose really wants to see in an actor Authenticity and bringing yourself to the material Why actors should stop chasing the “perfect” self-tape Rose’s three-take approach to self-tapes Why parents need to be careful not to over-coach young performers The importance of letting casting see the actual child What performers can control - training, materials, submissions and preparation Why parents should regularly check that their child is still enjoying performing How parent behaviour can affect a young performer’s opportunities Self-tapes versus in-person auditions Protecting your energy in the audition waiting room Slates and why following the individual casting instructions matters UK versus US casting - and why there may be fewer differences than actors imagine Why actors shouldn’t expect feedback after every audition Rose’s brilliant suggestion for keeping an audition log Why returning to the same casting director is often a positive sign, even when you haven’t booked Why performers shouldn’t decide for casting that they’re “not right” for a role The importance of professionalism when declining an audition Why Rose created Casting Confidential Community, collaboration and learning from others in the industry Supporting and protecting young performers Why actors around the world don’t necessarily need to move to Hollywood to build a career Mindset shift: The audition is the job. For parents: It’s your child’s journey - not yours. One thing to do this week: Start an audition log. Keep a simple record of the project, role, casting director, audition, callback, pin or booking. Rose suggests focusing on the evidence rather than judging how you think you performed. For young performers, parents can also record one important question: How did they feel? Not “How did they do?” A really practical, reassuring conversation for actors, young performers and parents who want to understand casting a little better - and spend less energy worrying about the things they simply cannot control. Casting Confidential on Spotify on YouTube on Instagram Rose Rosen on Instagram The Casting Lab / Patreon The Drama Coach on Instagram on TikTok on YouTube Follow @TheDramaCoach for acting tips, industry conversations and practical support for performers and parents. Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

A little time when you don’t have to deliver, impress anyone, or find every answer. In this bonus episode of The Drama Coach, Lisa Southam guides a gentle meditation for performers of all ages and the people who support them, accompanied by soft background music. Perhaps you’re preparing for an audition, rehearsal or performance. Perhaps you’ve spent the day encouraging a young performer. Or perhaps the day is finished, and you’re ready to put it down. Through a gentle body scan, awareness of the support beneath you, and imagery of warmth, light and softness, this practice offers space to rest and reconnect with yourself. There’s no need to force your breathing, picture anything perfectly, or feel a particular way. Return to this meditation before a busy day, after a demanding experience, or as you settle down for sleep. Three thoughts to take with you: • I can take my time.• I can listen and respond.• I can begin from where I am. Listen somewhere comfortable, only when it’s safe to rest your attention - never while driving or doing anything that needs your focus. Keep your eyes open or closed, change position, or stop whenever you need to. This version includes gentle background music at 852 Hz. If you prefer to listen without music, look for the Voice Only edition of Coming Back to Yourself. Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: OND2D0NS3CD6HQUF

A little time when you don’t have to deliver, impress anyone, or find every answer. In this bonus episode of The Drama Coach, Lisa Southam guides a gentle meditation for performers of all ages, parents, and the people who support them. Perhaps you’re preparing for an audition, rehearsal or performance. Perhaps you’ve spent the day encouraging a young performer. Or perhaps the day is finished, and you’re ready to put it down. Through a gentle body scan, awareness of the support beneath you, and imagery of warmth, light and softness, this practice offers space to rest and reconnect with yourself. There’s no need to force your breathing, picture anything perfectly, or feel a particular way. You can return to this meditation before a busy day, after a demanding experience, or as you settle down for sleep. Three thoughts to take with you: • I can take my time. • I can listen and respond. • I can begin from where I am. This is the voice-only version, without background music. Listen somewhere comfortable, only when it’s safe to rest your attention - never while driving or doing anything that needs your focus. Keep your eyes open or closed, change position, or stop whenever you need to.

You’ve trained. You’ve got headshots. Maybe you’re on Spotlight, you have an agent, and you’re actively submitting for work… so why aren’t the auditions coming? In this solo episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa Southam looks at 10 practical things actors can check when auditions have gone quiet - from headshots, showreels and casting clarity to self-tapes, training, submissions and representation. This isn’t about assuming you’re doing something wrong. Sometimes you can have everything in place and simply not be the right fit for what’s casting at that moment. Instead, this episode focuses on the part of an acting career you can control. Lisa covers: Whether your headshots still genuinely represent you How to tell if your showreel is actually helping you Why clear casting can make it easier for casting directors to place you Keeping your Spotlight profile, credits and skills accurate and current Whether you’re submitting for roles that genuinely fit Availability, location and the practical realities of being employable Why continued acting training matters, even between auditions How to assess whether your self-tapes are strong enough Knowing when to have a conversation about your representation Why the number of auditions you get is not a measure of your talent Lisa also talks about staying proactive when you have an agent, avoiding endless self-tape takes, staying “match fit” as an actor and being ready before the opportunity arrives. Because your agent can be an important part of your team - but they are not your entire career. If auditions have been quiet recently, use this episode as a practical acting career check-in and ask: is there anything I can strengthen, update or approach differently? The goal isn’t to suddenly become ready when the audition lands. It’s to already be ready. 🎙️ The Drama Coach Podcast with Lisa Southam For actors, young performers, parents of performers and anyone navigating acting training, auditions, agents, self-tapes and the professional industry. Follow The Drama Coach Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts, and please leave a rating or review if the episode helps you - it makes a real difference in helping more performers and parents find the show. Keywords: acting auditions, how to get acting auditions, why am I not getting auditions, actor showreel, acting headshots, Spotlight actor, acting agent, self-tape tips, casting type, actor training, getting an acting agent, acting career advice, audition tips for actors Instagram: ⁠@TheDramaCoach⁠ TikTok: ⁠@TheDramaCoach⁠ YouTube: ⁠The Drama Coach⁠ Actor Instagram: ⁠@lisa.southam.uk⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Lisa Southam⁠ Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa is joined by actor, writer and certified Chubbuck Technique coach Eric Geynes to explore what really helps an actor move from “performing” a scene to genuinely living within it. Eric shares his unusual route into acting after years as a competitive swimmer, the discipline he carried from sport into his training at Drama Centre London, and why the hardest part of acting preparation can sometimes be learning to let all that preparation go. Together, Lisa and Eric explore the Chubbuck Technique, character psychology, scene objectives, action verbs, movement psychology and the relationship between inside-out and outside-in approaches to performance. They also discuss how actors can work with emotionally demanding material safely, why emotion should be a result rather than the goal, and the importance of understanding what your character actually wants from the other person in the scene. Eric shares practical advice for self-tapes and screen work, including: Finding a clear scene objective Using playable actions rather than chasing emotion Creating a strong moment before Allowing the character to exist beyond the first and last line Using simple physical “doings” to make a scene feel lived-in Avoiding anticipation and staying genuinely responsive Letting accidents and unexpected moments become part of the performance Knowing when to stop analysing and trust your preparation The conversation also moves into Laban and Yat Malmgren’s Movement Psychology, performance capture, working without physical sets or props, and how physical choices can sometimes unlock a character from the outside in. Finally, Eric discusses the idea behind his forthcoming book, The Constant Actor, and what performers can do when they aren’t currently employed as actors. From creative practice and collaboration to training, career development, consistency and looking after your mental health, he offers a practical reminder that being an actor is about far more than your latest credit. A brilliant episode for actors who love exploring technique - but also need the reminder that eventually, you have to trust the work and let it go. Find Eric: Instagram: @ericgeynesCoaching: @ericgeynescoach Follow Lisa and The Drama Coach on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook at @TheDramaCoach. Subscribe to The Drama Coach Podcast so you don’t miss the rest of Series 3 - The Performer’s Toolkit. Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

How do you know when it’s time to move on from something that isn’t actually bad? In this solo episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa shares a recent decision from her own acting career - changing agents - and explores the much bigger lesson behind it: how to leave well. There was no dramatic falling out and no terrible experience. Lisa’s previous agency had supported her, submitted her for work, secured auditions and offered brilliant communication. But Lisa had changed. At this stage of her career, she realised she needed something different from representation - more direction, strategy and honest conversations around casting, positioning, materials and the bigger picture. And sometimes, that’s reason enough. In this episode: How to recognise when something that was once right no longer fits Why gratitude doesn’t have to become obligation Positive feedback vs directional feedback What you actually need from an agent at different stages of your career The difference between a rough patch and the wrong fit Why clarity about where you’re heading makes decisions easier How to move on without unnecessarily burning bridges Why you don’t need to make the old thing wrong to make the new thing right Questions to ask yourself if you’re wondering whether it’s time for a change And this isn’t just about agents. The same questions can apply to acting classes, drama schools, teachers, theatre companies, jobs and other parts of your creative life. Sometimes moving forward doesn’t mean rejecting what came before. It simply means recognising that you’re ready for what comes next. If this episode resonates, Lisa would love to hear about your own experience of knowing when it was time to move on. Find The Drama Coach on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and Facebook. Email: lisa@thedramacoach.co.uk If you’re enjoying The Drama Coach Podcast, follow the show, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with another performer, parent or teacher who might need to hear it. Keep learning, keep growing and keep telling stories that matter. Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

What does it really take to keep showing up when you don’t feel motivated? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, I’m joined by dancer, performer and teacher Ned Drew to talk about discipline, professional training and the mindset behind developing as a performer. Ned shares his unconventional journey from football into dance, training at Bath Dance College before moving to London to study ballet and contemporary dance at Rambert. We talk about the realities of full-time professional training, why motivation alone isn’t enough, and what young performers can learn long before they ever reach drama school or professional training. We also explore the impact of phones and social media on focus, finding a routine that works for you, balancing training with actually having a life, and what Ned learned when injury forced him to sit on the sidelines. There’s also a brilliant discussion about comparison and casting - including why being in the ensemble is never “less than” getting the principal role, and why every performer has their own journey and their own time. In this episode: Why discipline matters more than waiting to feel motivated Ned’s journey from football to professional dance training What a typical full-time training week really looks like Managing phones, social media and distractions Showing up even when you’re not performing at your best The difference between training for fun and training professionally What injury can teach you about your attitude to training Finding a balance between hard work, friends and life outside training Why open classes can help performers develop Comparison, casting and learning not to measure yourself against somebody else Why the ensemble can be just as important as the principal roles Building habits that work over the long term Remembering to enjoy performing while you’re young One of the biggest messages from this conversation is that progress isn’t about being perfect every day. It’s about continuing to work at something over time, learning what works for you and showing up. And, as Ned puts it, your journey doesn’t have to look like anybody else’s. Find Ned on Instagram:@NedDreww Follow The Drama Coach for more acting tips, industry conversations and practical support for young and emerging performers:@TheDramaCoach Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay

In this Series 3 solo episode, I’m pulling together some of the key advice that has come up again and again in my conversations with agents across The Drama Coach Podcast. Agents may all work differently, but there are some clear themes that keep returning: professionalism, curiosity, self-awareness, resilience, useful materials, strong self-tapes and learning how to meet your agent halfway. This episode isn’t a rule book, and it definitely isn’t a “do this and you’ll get signed” guide. Instead, it’s a performer’s toolkit - a practical, grounded look at the habits, mindset and working skills that help performers become easier to support, easier to submit and better prepared for the realities of the industry. In this episode, I talk about: What an agent actually does - and what they can’t control Why getting an agent is the start of a working relationship, not the finish line The importance of professional curiosity and understanding the industry Why actors need to watch the kind of work they want to be in What makes a self-tape clean, simple and useful Why truth matters more than perfection on screen How readers and parents can support a tape without taking over Why endless takes can work against you The shift from parent-led support to performer ownership What “readiness” really means Why useful headshots, showreels, profiles and skills matter Self-awareness around casting, playing age and what you can truthfully carry Training as part of the performer’s toolkit Resilience, consistency and curiosity as long-term acting tools Why performers must not tie their self-worth to the outcome How parents can support older teens and emerging actors with more independence This episode is for performers who are starting to take their acting seriously, young actors building their careers, parents supporting older teens, and anyone trying to understand representation in a more realistic and professional way. Because representation is not just about being chosen. It’s about being ready - ready to work, ready to learn, ready to communicate, ready to handle the quiet patches, and ready to keep going without losing yourself in the process. You can also listen back to previous agent conversations across Series 1 and 2 of The Drama Coach Podcast for more detailed advice on approaching agents, self-tapes, profiles, Spotlight and building a professional relationship. Find out more The Drama Coach: https://www.thedramacoach.co.uk The Drama Coach Blog: https://www.thedramacoach.co.uk/blog/ The Drama Coach Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and YouTube. Music: Soft Music 495878 by nastelbom from Pixabay.

Movement is not just for dancers. It is one of the most powerful tools an actor has. In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast , I’m joined by movement practitioner, actor and highly experienced teacher Pat Garrett to explore the role physicality plays in creating truthful, believable characters. Pat has taught movement for actors across drama schools and colleges and has worked within repertory theatre, the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. She also spent more than ten years as a senior examiner for Trinity College London, assessing professional diplomas in Drama, Dance and Musical Theatre — so it is fair to say, she has seen a lot! Together, we discuss why an actor’s physical choices matter, how movement can reveal character before a word is spoken, and why performers should develop greater awareness of what their bodies are communicating. This is not about choreography, complicated routines or learning how to dance. It is about using the body with purpose — and adding movement to your own Performer’s Toolkit . Why movement is an essential acting tool The difference between simply moving and making purposeful physical choices How posture, pace, gesture and tension communicate character What an actor’s body can reveal before they speak Why movement work is not just for dancers or musical theatre performers How physical choices can support emotional truth The importance of observing how real people move Developing greater physical awareness as an actor How movement training can help performers avoid repetitive character choices Using the body to create more specific, confident and believable performances Your body is already telling the audience a story. The question is whether you are making those physical choices consciously — or allowing habit, nerves and your own everyday movement patterns to make them for you. Movement does not need to be big or theatrical. Sometimes the smallest adjustment in posture, rhythm, focus or physical tension can completely transform a character. Choose a character or scene you are currently working on and explore: Where does the character hold tension? What part of their body leads them into the room? How much physical space do they take up? Do they move quickly, slowly, directly or hesitantly? What changes physically when their circumstances change? Try the scene again after making one clear physical choice and notice what it unlocks. Pat Garrett is an actor, movement practitioner and experienced teacher who has taught movement for actors in colleges and drama schools. Her career includes work in repertory theatres, at the National Theatre and with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Pat was also a senior examiner for Trinity College London for more than ten years, examining professional diplomas in Drama, Dance and Musical Theatre. “Movement isn’t just for dancers.” Movement for actors, physical storytelling, actor training, character physicality, body language, movement practitioner, performance techniques, acting exercises, screen acting, theatre training, The Performer’s Toolkit In this episode, we explore:Key takeawayA tool to tryAbout Pat GarrettEpisode quoteKeywords

Welcome to Series 3 of The Drama Coach Podcast. This series is called The Performer’s Toolkit , and it’s all about going inside the performer’s process to explore the methods, tools and techniques behind truthful, confident work. In this opening episode, Lisa introduces the theme of the new series and looks at what it really means to build a performer’s toolkit - not just learning lines or preparing for auditions, but developing craft, confidence, curiosity, self-awareness, resilience and professionalism. Whether you’re a young performer, emerging actor, parent, drama teacher or coach, this episode sets up the conversations to come across Series 3, from acting techniques and voice work to movement, mindset, self-tapes, casting, training and the business side of the industry. In this episode, Lisa talks about: Why there is no single “perfect route” into acting What a performer’s toolkit actually is The importance of craft, curiosity and process Why actors need more than talent and instinct How parents, teachers and coaches can support performers without adding pressure Why confidence comes from preparation, understanding and practice The role of voice, body, mind, business and creative process in performance Why acting training should give performers more choice, freedom and ownership How to stay ambitious without burning out or losing yourself in the industry Series 3 will explore acting from a broader perspective, looking at practitioners, methods, tools and real industry insight to help performers keep growing one step at a time. Listen if you are: A young performer or emerging actor A parent supporting a young performer A drama teacher, acting coach or theatre practitioner Interested in acting training, auditions, self-tapes and career development Looking for practical, honest conversations about the performer’s process Find The Drama Coach: Instagram / TikTok / Facebook: @thedramacoach YouTube: The Drama Coach Website: www.thedramacoach.co.uk Music: Soft Music 495878 by nastelbom from Pixabay.

What does “real people casting” actually mean - and what can actors and young performers learn from it? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, I’m joined by casting director Casper Black, founder of Casper Black Casting, to explore the world of real people casting across commercials, documentaries, branded content and television. We talk about the crossover between actors and real people casting, why authenticity matters, and how performers can sometimes accidentally make themselves look too much like actors when a brief is asking for something natural and unperformed. Casper also shares practical advice on self-tapes, reading briefs carefully, real family and couple castings, chemistry on camera, rejection, professionalism, pay and knowing when an opportunity is right for you. In this episode, we cover: what “real people casting” actually means authenticity versus performance why actors shouldn’t automatically dismiss “real people” briefs how to avoid over-performing in a casting tape what casting is really looking for in families and couples self-tape basics - lighting, framing and sound why reading the brief properly matters professionalism, reliability and duty of care opportunities for young performers and their families why silence doesn’t always mean rejection One of Casper’s strongest messages is simple: if a casting is asking for the real you, don’t try to manufacture authenticity. Let casting actually see you. After we finished recording, Casper messaged with one extra piece of advice she wished she’d included: For a real people casting tape - don’t rehearse it. Just go for it. The aim is for casting to meet you, rather than a polished or practised version of you. And if you really feel you need a rehearsal, record that first run anyway - it may turn out to be the most natural version. Website: casperblackcasting.com Instagram: @casperblackcasting Casper also recommends joining the free Casper Black Casting mailing list , where actors, parents and real people can hear about current casting opportunities and receive fuller breakdowns and timelines. Follow The Drama Coach: Instagram/TikTok: @TheDramaCoach Website You can also find me, Lisa Southam - actor, drama coach and podcast host , on Instagram at @lisa.southam.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please follow or subscribe to The Drama Coach Podcast and share it with another performer or parent who might find it useful.

Series 3 of The Drama Coach Podcast is coming on 19th September 2026. This season, we’re going beyond acting technique and looking at the bigger picture - the things performers need to know to build, navigate and sustain a career in the industry. Across The Performer’s Toolkit, I’ll be joined by actors, casting directors, agents, directors, coaches and other industry professionals to talk about: Casting and auditions Representation and agents Creating your own work Working professionally on set Career longevity The realities of building a sustainable performing career Expect honest conversations, practical advice, different perspectives and plenty you can put into action. Because becoming a better performer isn’t just about becoming a better actor. There’s always more to learn. 🎙️ Series 3: The Performer’s Toolkit launches 19 September 2026. Follow The Drama Coach Podcast now so you don’t miss it. Find me on socials @TheDramaCoach

That’s a wrap on Series 2 of The Drama Coach Podcast! In this special round-up episode, I’m looking back at some of the biggest lessons, ideas and reminders from an incredible series of conversations with actors, coaches, casting directors, voice professionals and industry experts. We revisit some of my favourite takeaways from: Laura Graham May - finding your own path through drama and performance Kate Harbour - why voice acting is acting Rosie Stancliffe - voice, identity and truthful performance Katie and Ethan - university, drama school and choosing the training route that suits you Brian Maitland - social media, visibility and staying safe online Jamie Boddy - the business of acting and understanding your personal brand Adam Stadius - what drama schools are really looking for Helen Goldwyn - building a long-lasting creative career Liane Marie - what casting directors actually want from your self-tape Alexa Morden from The 98% - agents, representation and knowing your worth Derek Barr - craft, mindset, business and staying ready Kateland Cunningham - trusting yourself as an artist and letting go of perfection Looking back across the whole series, one message keeps coming through: There is no single correct route into this industry. Learn the craft. Understand the business. Stay curious. Stay safe. Keep training. Take the advice that helps you - but don’t lose yourself in the process. I also share a little about my 1:1 coaching for actors and young performers. If you’d like support with acting technique, self-tapes, auditions, monologues, screen acting, confidence or working out what to develop next, you can find details here: Coaching: www.thedramacoach.co.uk And finally… Series 3 is coming. The Performer’s Toolkit launches 29 September , with practical conversations around self-tapes, showreels, screen acting, casting, auditions, stronger choices and what performers can actually work on between opportunities. Make sure you follow or subscribe so you don’t miss it. Thank you to every guest who contributed to Series 2 - and most importantly, thank you for listening, sharing and supporting the podcast. Onwards to Series 3. 🎭 Follow on Socials: @TheDramaCoach

That’s a wrap on Series 2 of The Drama Coach Podcast! In this special round-up episode, I’m looking back at some of the biggest lessons, ideas and reminders from an incredible series of conversations with actors, coaches, casting directors, voice professionals and industry experts. We revisit some of my favourite takeaways from: ​Laura Graham May - finding your own path through drama and performance ​Kate Harbour - why voice acting is acting ​Rosie Stancliffe - voice, identity and truthful performance ​Katie and Ethan - university, drama school and choosing the training route that suits you ​Brian Maitland - social media, visibility and staying safe online ​Jamie Boddy - the business of acting and understanding your personal brand ​Adam Stadius - what drama schools are really looking for ​Helen Goldwyn - building a long-lasting creative career ​Liane Marie - what casting directors actually want from your self-tape ​Alexa Morden from The 98% - agents, representation and knowing your worth ​Derek Barr - craft, mindset, business and staying ready ​Kateland Cunningham - trusting yourself as an artist and letting go of perfection Looking back across the whole series, one message keeps coming through: There is no single correct route into this industry. Learn the craft. Understand the business. Stay curious. Stay safe. Keep training. Take the advice that helps you - but don’t lose yourself in the process. I also share a little about my 1:1 coaching for actors and young performers. If you’d like support with acting technique, self-tapes, auditions, monologues, screen acting, confidence or working out what to develop next, you can find details here: Coaching: www.thedramacoach.co.uk And finally… Series 3 is coming. The Performer’s Toolkit launches 29 September , with practical conversations around self-tapes, showreels, screen acting, casting, auditions, stronger choices and what performers can actually work on between opportunities. Make sure you follow or subscribe so you don’t miss it. Thank you to every guest who contributed to Series 2 - and most importantly, thank you for listening, sharing and supporting the podcast. Onwards to Series 3. 🎭 Follow on Socials: @TheDramaCoach

In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa is joined by actor, singer and coach Kateland Cunningham. Based in Los Angeles, Kateland works with performers across acting and vocal training, bringing together classical vocal technique, Stanislavski-based acting work and a student-led approach to learning. This conversation explores what it really means to grow as a performer - not just technically, but creatively and personally too. Lisa and Kateland talk about acting training, singing, confidence, intuition, perfectionism, safe learning spaces and why young performers need to feel ownership over their own creative choices. They also discuss the difference between teaching and coaching, how performers can build a process that works for them, and why being a successful artist should not mean sacrificing happiness. In this episode, they discuss: Kateland’s journey from childhood commercial work to theatre, singing and coaching Why student-led teaching can help performers grow with more confidence The difference between coaching for an urgent audition and teaching for long-term development Stanislavski, truthful acting and finding a process that works Why intuition matters in acting, singing and choosing material Helping young performers take ownership of their choices Perfectionism, people pleasing and the pressure to get everything right Why safe creative spaces matter, especially for younger performers The importance of supportive networks and healthy industry connections Why singers do not need to rush to define their voice type What success can mean beyond roles, credits or external approval This is a thoughtful episode for young performers, parents, teachers and coaches who want to understand training in a deeper, healthier and more artist-led way. Find Kateland: TikTok: @traininganartist Website: KatelandCunningham.com Mentioned in this episode: Rosie’s voice episode - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/YRBwv1IKD3b SceneTribe - https://scenetribe.com The Drama Coach - https://thedramacoach.co.uk Music: Soft Music 495878 by nastelbom from Pixabay.

Training matters. Drama classes, youth theatre, LAMDA, musical theatre, screen acting courses, university drama courses and drama school can all help young performers build confidence, craft, discipline and creativity. But even brilliant training does not always teach you how the acting industry actually works. In this solo episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa talks about the gap between training and the real industry - and why older teens, drama students, early career actors and parents can sometimes feel lost when acting starts to become more professional. Because acting is not only about being good in the room. It is also about self-tapes, headshots, profiles, casting platforms, agents, emails, deadlines, availability, rejection, safety, networking, visibility and knowing when to say yes or no. This episode looks at how performers can start bridging that gap in a calm, practical and realistic way. In this episode, Lisa talks about: Why training still matters The difference between craft and career Why there is no clear map in the acting industry Headshots and first impressions CVs, profiles and keeping materials updated Casting platforms and choosing the right tools for your stage Why self-taping is now part of the craft Professional communication and replying properly Availability, reliability and reputation Money, unpaid work and knowing the value of your time Safety, boundaries and red flags Rejection, silence and staying steady Networking without being fake or pushy Social media, visibility and healthy boundaries Creating your own work instead of only waiting to be chosen What parents can do to support young performers well Why older teens and early career actors need to start taking ownership This episode is for young actors, older teens, drama students, early career performers, graduates and parents who want to understand what comes after training. Because becoming an actor is not just about talent. It is about craft, professionalism, resilience, curiosity, safety and learning how to keep going when the path is not perfectly clear. Useful links: Find Lisa on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube: @TheDramaCoach Email Lisa: lisa@thedramacoach.co.uk This episode is supported by SceneTribe - the creative industries network built around the work you’ve done and the people you’ve done it with. Find out more at: www.scenetribe.com Music: Soft Music 495878 by nastelbom from Pixabay.

In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa is joined by Derek Barr - actor, acting coach and founder of The Acting Masters. Derek has worked across television, film and theatre, and now coaches actors through The Acting Masters with a strong focus on craft, mindset and the business of building a sustainable acting career. This conversation is especially useful for teens, young adults, emerging actors and the parents supporting them. Derek talks honestly about what actors can actually work on between jobs, how to approach auditions and self-tapes, and why mindset matters just as much as talent. Rather than waiting, hoping or comparing, Derek encourages actors to keep training, keep improving and stay ready for the next opportunity. In this episode, we talk about: What it really means to treat acting as a craft Why actors need to work on craft, mindset and business together How to stay ready between auditions and acting jobs Why Derek believes actors are not there to get a job - they are there to do a job Practical self-tape advice, including framing, lighting, stillness and eyelines Why technical distractions can get in the way of performance How to watch your own work back without spiralling into overthinking Derek’s three-take approach to self-tapes Casting type and actor branding for emerging performers What actors should understand before seeking representation How parents can help protect a young actor’s confidence Why online training and Zoom auditions are now essential acting skills The importance of taking action, even when you do not feel ready This is a really practical and encouraging conversation for anyone who wants to take acting seriously without losing the joy of it. Derek’s advice is clear: keep doing the work, keep building your confidence, and remember that acting is not about being perfect - it is about being truthful. Find Derek Barr and The Acting Masters: Website: https://theactormasters.com Community/training platform: https://www.skool.com/the-acting-masters Find Lisa Southam - The Drama Coach: Website: https://www.thedramacoach.co.uk Blog: https://www.thedramacoach.co.uk/blog/ Instagram & TikTok: @thedramacoach Listen to more episodes of The Drama Coach Podcast for conversations about acting, training, self-tapes, confidence, auditions, agents and supporting young performers. Music: Soft Music 495878 by nastelbom from Pixabay