Avsnitt
-
Filmmaking is a bloodsport, and no one tells you that before you sign up.
This episode, we’re sitting down with Nik Kacevski—writer, director, producer, and all-around filmmaking survivor—to talk about the real shit that happens behind the scenes. Forget the glossy Hollywood version—this is about bad deals, casting nightmares, industry politics, and why filmmaking is basically organised chaos.
We get into:
• The brutal reality of getting a film funded—and why it might cost you your sanity.
• How selling your film rights can haunt you for years (Nik learned this the hard way).
• The casting process no one understands, including why the best audition doesn’t always win.
• Hollywood’s “offer-only” system and why it’s killing actual art.
• The truth about breaking into the industry when no one’s giving you a seat at the table.
This episode is messy, hilarious, and a full-on reality check for anyone who’s ever dreamed of making movies. We’re talking real stories, real regrets, and real lessons that no one teaches you in film school.
If you’re in the industry (or trying to be), you can’t afford to miss this one.
About Our Guest
Nik Kacevski is an acclaimed filmmaker, writer, and director whose work spans feature films, TV series, music videos, and commercials. With a background in visual effects and animation, Nik has built a career crafting bold, immersive storytelling experiences that blur the lines between genre and reality.
His directorial work includes award-winning films and projects that have screened globally, and he has collaborated with major brands and artists to create visually stunning, narrative-driven content. With a deep passion for independent filmmaking, Nik has been at the forefront of pushing creative storytelling while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry.
Check out more of his work at nikkacevski.com.
-
Look, we barely survived January, and honestly, February wasn’t much better. School holidays dragged on for centuries, mum guilt hit an all-time high, and trying to run a business while keeping small humans alive? A shit show.
But somehow, we made it. And now we’re back, caffeinated (or maybe just delirious), and deep in the ultimate reframe—because if we don’t shift our mindset, who will?
This episode, we’re talking:
• The mental load of school chaos (seriously, what do teachers do on those PD days?)
• Running a business when the world expects you to just “pause” for six weeks
• Rewiring our brains for success, abundance, and not self-sabotaging
• Vision boards, manifestation, and why we’re drinking the biggest glass of Kool-Aid
• The “cut from the tree” method—AKA, why some people just need to go
If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at life while everyone else is thriving, this one’s for you. We’re all just winging it—so let’s do it together.
Hit play, and let’s get into it.
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe toThe Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!
Stay Connected
For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:
• Website:www.chickenandchips.com.au
• Audition Academy Collective:Join Here
Instagram:
• Chicken & Chips Casting:@chickenandchips_
• Steph Pringle:@itsstephaniepringle
• Alison Fowler:@itsalisonfowler
Produced by:Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Sauce, where we serve up candid conversations and practical advice to empower you in your acting journey. Stay saucy!
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Dating in your 30s isa whole different beast—especially when you’re a single parent, emotionally unavailable, or just trying to dodge “The Talk” for as long as possible. In this episode, we unpack theawkward realities of modern dating, from the pressure of sending gifts too soon to the unspoken expectations lurking behind every dating app match. Is exclusivity inevitable? Are dating apps actually dead? And why does a simple bouquet of flowers feel like a marriage proposal? Buckle up forhilarious rants, brutally honest truths, and some serious dating therapy.
Talk points:
00:00:22 - The 'How are you?' Dilemma
00:05:10 - Favorite Age Discussion
00:07:16 - Birthday Gift Dilemma
00:10:53 - The Aftermath
00:13:18 - The Talk
00:15:28 - The Dating Dilemma
00:16:13 - The Flower Incident
00:16:31 - The U-Haul Theory
00:17:55 - Reflections on Relationships
00:18:30 - Unpacking Relationship Dynamics
00:23:14 - The Funeral Question
00:27:43 - The Emotional Investment
00:29:18 - The Pace of Relationships
00:29:54 - The Time Constraint
00:31:28 - Dating App Experiences
00:48:05 - The Role of Men in Relationships
00:49:05 - Ghosting and Dating
00:50:11 - Dating App Messaging
00:51:28 - The Problem with Dating Apps
01:00:16 - Accidental Love Confession
01:05:13 - Avoidance and Disappearance
01:06:15 - Single-Parent Dating
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe toThe Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!
Stay Connected
For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:
• Website:www.chickenandchips.com.au
• Audition Academy Collective:Join Here
Instagram:
• Chicken & Chips Casting:@chickenandchips_
• Steph Pringle:@itsstephaniepringle
• Alison Fowler:@itsalisonfowler
Produced by:Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Sauce, where we serve up candid conversations and practical advice to empower you in your acting journey. Stay saucy!
This episode is about:
dating in your 30s, modern dating struggles, single parent dating, dating apps 2025, online dating disasters, dating expectations, early relationship talk, dating red flags, when to buy a gift for someone you’re dating, relationship milestones, ghosting culture, hinge vs bumble, dating apps are dead, how to survive modern dating, dating etiquette, dating mistakes, navigating dating apps, relationship pressure, dating burnout, emotional unavailability, single mom dating, dating as a single dad, dating app tips, first date expectations, gift-giving in relationships, exclusivity talk, dating confusion, dating culture shift, best dating advice, dating pet peeves, relationship communication, why modern dating is hard, dating after divorce, dating in your mid-30s, when to define the relationship, avoiding relationship labels, dating mistakes to avoid, dating rules, online dating tips, dating deal breakers, dating psychology, commitment issues, casual dating vs serious dating, dating game rules, modern romance struggles
-
Sit down with industry expert George Konstand to explore the transformative concept of the actor’s archetype. If you’ve ever felt pigeonholed or uncertain about how to present yourself in auditions, this conversation is your key to taking control and standing out.
What You’ll Learn
• Archetype vs. Typecast: Understand the crucial difference and how recognising your archetype puts you in the driver’s seat of your acting career.
• Owning Your Narrative: Learn how embracing your unique qualities can empower you to make strategic choices in auditions and roles.
• The New Casting Paradigm: Discover why authenticity and individuality are now more valued than ever in casting decisions.
• First Impressions Matter: Gain insights into how your visual presence and initial impression can significantly influence casting outcomes.
• Leveraging Social Media: Explore the growing importance of personal branding and social media in today’s entertainment industry.
Key Discussion Points
• Understanding Your Archetype: George explains how identifying your archetype allows you to either align with or intentionally defy expectations, giving you greater control over your career trajectory.
• Shifting Casting Preferences: The industry is moving away from solely seeking the most skilled actors to finding the most interesting and authentic individuals.
• Visual Perception in Casting: First impressions are powerful. Learn how to make yours count from the moment you step into the audition room.
• The Role of Social Media: Contracts increasingly require actors to maintain an active online presence. Find out how to use this to your advantage.
Memorable Quotes
• “Actors, know thyself. Mastering your archetype is the first step to mastering your career.” — George Konstand
• “Casting directors are looking for authenticity. Your unique archetype is what sets you apart.” — Alison Fowler
• “Understanding your archetype isn’t about limiting yourself; it’s about empowering yourself with choice.” — Steph Pringle
About Our Guest
George Konstand is a seasoned entertainment industry professional specialising in actor development and casting dynamics. With extensive experience collaborating with actors, casting directors, and producers, George offers unparalleled insights into how understanding your archetype can unlock new opportunities and empower you to take control of your career.
• Website: The Actors Brand
• Instagram: @georgekonstand
Join the Conversation
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!
Stay Connected
For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:
• Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
• Audition Academy Collective: Join Here
Instagram:
• Chicken & Chips Casting: @chickenandchips_
• Steph Pringle: @itsstephaniepringle
• Alison Fowler: @itsalisonfowler
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Sauce, where we serve up candid conversations and practical advice to empower you in your acting journey. Stay saucy!
-
Struggling to get noticed in the crowded acting industry? Discover how TikTok can be a game-changer for your acting career. In this episode, social media sensation Maddy MacRae shares her insider tips on leveraging TikTok to showcase your talent, build a following, and catch the eye of casting directors. Learn how to create engaging content, build your personal brand, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media to give your acting career the boost it needs.
What You’ll Learn
• Why TikTok Matters for Actors: Understand the platform’s potential to elevate your acting career.
• Creating Engaging Content: Learn how to craft videos that showcase your skills and attract followers.
• Building a Personal Brand: Discover strategies to develop a unique online presence that stands out.
• Navigating Algorithms: Get insights into how TikTok’s algorithm works and how to make it work for you.
• Connecting with Industry Professionals: Find out how to network with casting directors and agents through social media.
Key Discussion Points
• Maddy’s Journey: How she grew her TikTok following and the impact it had on her career.
• Content Creation Tips: Practical advice on video ideas, trends, and staying authentic.
• Overcoming Challenges: Discussing common obstacles actors face on social media and how to overcome them.
• The Future of Casting: Exploring how social media influence is shaping casting decisions.
Memorable Quotes
• “TikTok isn’t just for dances; it’s a platform where actors can showcase their range and creativity.” — Maddy MacRae
• “Your online presence can be your audition tape to the world.” — Alison Fowler
• “In today’s industry, casting directors are looking at social media to discover new talent.” — Steph Pringle
About Our Guest
Maddy MacRae is a rising star and social media influencer known for her engaging TikTok content that blends acting, comedy, and storytelling. Maddy has successfully leveraged TikTok to advance her acting career and inspire others to do the same.
• Instagram: @maddy_macrae_
• TikTok: @maddy_macrae_
Join the Conversation
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!
Stay Connected
For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:
• Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
• Audition Academy Collective: Join Here
Instagram:
• Chicken & Chips Casting: @chickenandchips_
• Steph Pringle: @itsstephaniepringle
• Alison Fowler: @itsalisonfowler
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Sauce, where we serve up candid conversations and practical advice to empower you in your acting journey. Stay saucy!
-
Ever feel like someone’s trying to box you into one role? We’ve been there. In this episode, we dig into the frustrating notion of being told to “stay in your lane.” It’s advice we’ve heard too often as casting directors, and frankly, we’re not here for it.
As casting directors and entrepreneurs, we’ve never been content with sticking to just one thing. We talk about why we refuse to limit ourselves, even when people try to hold us back. From running a business to hosting this podcast and everything in between, we explore how diversifying your skills isn’t just smart—it’s essential in today’s world.
We get real about how tall poppy syndrome, internalized misogyny, and fear of failure try to keep people small, especially women. But let’s be honest—no one ever did anything great by playing it safe. So why should we?
Tune in to hear our thoughts on ambition, rejecting societal expectations, and why it’s time for all of us to do whatever the hell we want.
Click and listen now—because staying in one lane is not an option.
www.chickenandchips.com.au
Audition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
Child acting with Todd O'Mara and Emma Jane Hyland from T&E Management.
Established in 2011, T&E Management is one of the most highly regarded talent agencies in the country, representing both kids and adults in the entertainment industry.
They share their expertise on what it takes for children to succeed in acting, how to support them, and how to navigate the highs and lows of the business.
From learning how to self-tape effectively to handling rejections, Todd and Emma offer invaluable advice for aspiring young actors and their families.
Get ready for an in-depth conversation about the realities and joys of the child acting world.
T&E Management
www.tandemanagement.com.au
www.chickenandchips.com.au
Audition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
"You have to figure it out on your own!”
In this episode, we talk about:
• Embracing the mantra of self-reliance as single mothers
• Overcoming practical challenges like electrical issues at home
• Balancing the demands of business ownership and parenting
• The importance of community support and asking for help
• Finding personal space and autonomy amidst chaos
www.chickenandchips.com.au
Audition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
How did Brendan’s childhood dreams shape his career in the entertainment industry?
Discover Brendan’s unique journey from aspiring actor to producer. Hear his humorous childhood misconceptions, insights on the financial realities of acting, and the challenges of producing a TV show. This episode is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons on adaptability and growth in the entertainment industry.
“Transitioning to production opened up a world of opportunities I never imagined.”www.chickenandchips.com.au
Audition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
Alex Culliver and Sarah Nathan Share Their Experiences
“The pandemic has really changed the dynamics in the industry, making people more accessible and breaking down hierarchical barriers.”
What led Alex Culliver and Sarah Nathan to start their own talent agency, Nathan Culliver Management?In this episode, they share their non-linear career paths and how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped their perspectives.
They discuss how self-taping has deepened their understanding of clients’ capabilities and personal lives, leading to better representation.
With a focus on supporting emerging talent and filmmakers, Alex and Sarah are dedicated to fostering growth and creativity in the industry.
Their path shows a commitment to making the entertainment world more accessible and collaborative.
https://www.nathanculliver.com.au/
www.chickenandchips.com.au
Audition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
Join us for a laugh-out-loud episode where we get into the entertainment industry, single mum life and rushing woman syndrome. Get ready for a hilarious review of a baffling Romanian film we saw at Sydney Film Festival, Steph’s epic house clean-up hack, and Al's school fundraiser fiasco. Plus, hear all about how we juggle work, kids, and everything in between. Don’t miss out on the fun and chaos!
www.chickenandchips.com.auAudition Academy CollectiveInstagram: @chickenandchips_ Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringleAl Insta: @itsalisonfowler
-
This podcast is recorded on Gadigal Land, we acknowledge the traditional owners of the land in which we live and work and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.
The Sauce with Chicken and Chips Casting is hosted by two of Australia's leading Casting Directors for Film, TV, Commercials and Content - join Alison Fowler & Stephanie Pringle each week, as they chat with people they love about things they love, hate or feel strong feelings about on topics ranging from creative processes to art & pop culture to acting, film & TV, mental health and their favourite topic representation and diversity and it's all no bullsh*t.
Chicken and Chips Casting – Company Bio
Founded in 2015, Chicken and Chips Casting is a Full Service Casting Company for Film, Television, TVCs & New Media with offices in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne led by Principal Casting Directors Alison Fowler & Stephanie Pringle.
Recent credits include Australian pioneer film The Flood directed by Victoria Wharfe McIntyre, Ellie & Abbie (and Ellie’s Dead Aunt) directed by Monica Zanetti (the first Aussie film to open the Sydney Mardi Gras Film Festival in it's 27 year history), Deadhouse Dark Anthology created by Enzo Tedeschi, Blood Sisters directed by Madeleine Dyer, factual program Stargazing produced by the BBC, Short Documentary Bright Lights directed by Charby Ibrahim, Sit-Com Metro Sexual directed by Henry Boffin for Channel 9 and Chlorine directed by Melissa Anastasi and Deluge directed by Cloudy Rhodes - both of the latter premiered at the 2019 Sydney Film Festival.
Their work has been shown in the world’s most prestigious Film Festivals and their cast ensembles have received countless nominations and awards.
Al & Steph are known as Australia’s most dynamic casting duo. In 2018, they were the first Casting Directors to win B&T’s 30 under 30 Award and in 2021 they were crowned ‘Best of the Best’ by B&T yet again in the Casting Director category.
As proud members of the Casting Guild of Australia they are both a part of the Guild’s Inclusion Committee to continue their work in advocating for representation and diversity in Casting. Both are mentored by Casting Industry legend, Fiona Dann. In 2020, they were nominated for 3 Casting Guild Awards.
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
Maree is a storyteller and a collaborative story maker.
She uses video, words and action to advocate for people & planet, moving in the pursuit of co-liberation and restorative reciprocity.
Maree's love for planet Earth has been watched on TV and social media by millions of people across the globe and in 128 nations. Her alter-persona, dirtgirl of the international hit TV series, dirtgirlworld & Get Grubby TV (on ABC TV here in Australia) has evolved beyond the screen to walk alongside First Nations communities, farmers and families and together they are writing a better story for the future.
As an Actress & Changemaker, Maree has worked with the likes of VIVID Sydney, the Climate Council, Planet Ark, the NRL, Groundswell Giving Circle, Kellogg's, We The Many and international cult brand, Spell. 2021/2022 will see Maree became the first Australian Ambassador for the family-founded-cum-global-force-for-good, Dr Bronner's.
When not in front of the camera, Maree is also a craftswoman with words and community. While she was the Online Community Manager at Mememe Productions, their small but mighty teamwon an International digital EMMY© Award for their progressive multi-platform storytelling.
Maree's writing has been published in Peppermint Magazine and Yolkand in 2019 she co-founded the #attnscottmorrison campaignwhich reached around 25 million people in just 72 hours and trended on Twitter in the US & here at home. Most importantly, it empowered Australians to speak to their elected representatives.
Maree’s professional experience is grounded in her endless curiosity, lived experiences and formal academic study. She has completed a BA Psychology with a double Major in Indigenous Studies and is currently undertaking her Masters in Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development through the United Nations and University of Newcastle. Maree also holds a certificate in Permaculture Design.
All together many roads (some asphalt, most dirt) have led Maree to where she is now ~ at a unique intersection of environmental education, mental health and TV & Film. But wherever she goes ~ from having her hands in the red earth to her feet on red carpets - Maree uses story to write love letters to this planet.
We talk about:
- Maree's unconventional, non-linear path into storytelling
- Finding your voice, being in service
- Her work in environmental activism and advocacy and how she has found her unique niche in storytelling
- Covid and it's impact on the climate conversation
- Doing to combat despair and to enrich your acting / craft & aligning your values to your work
- What it means to be an artist - the unglamorous, honest truth
Resources:
All AACTA Award Winners: https://www.aacta.org/our-news/media-room/2021-aacta-awards-winners-announced/
Maree Insta: @mareelowes
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
After Graduating from WAAPA (Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts) in 2013, media personality Matty Mills created waves by covering the Star Observer with a bold statement “Gay, Black and Proud” before cementing his role in the Entertainment Industry as a presenter, working for Channel Nine, SBS and NITV.
The Deadly Award winner has hosted major national events, such as the 2018 Mardi Gras Online Live Stream and both The Dreamtime Awards and ARIA Awards red carpet coverage. Most recently Matty returned to our screens as the Entertainment Reporter for NITV and SBS’s first all Indigenous morning show Big Mob Brekky and has launched his own IGTV series, In The Moment with Matty Mills, showcasing the careers of Indigenous artists and entertainers from around the world.
We chatted with Matty about:
Young Matty and his journey into TV, including WAAPA
Matty’s experience in foster care and reunion with his Dad
How to get what you want
Matty’s experience and journey into presenting and how he found his groove
In The Moment IGTV series (insert link)
His time on set with Elvis
The importance of diversity on set
What’s next for Matty
Follow @itsmattymills on Instagram
Check out his IGTV Series In The Moment HERE
Get educated on Invasion Day - here’s a good start but remember, good allies do their own work - so put some effort in and do your own learning and support First Nations People wherever you can.
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
We talk to Simon Williams from MAPP about the importance of finding a coach that’s right for you.
Proof of Concept to Feature Film - the process
Authentic Networking
High Performance coaching
Why you need a coach
Goal setting, getting your momentum
Identifying your everest (purpose)
The WHY
Your Inner Child - nurturing it, how it relates to your work as an actor / creative
The Talent Ascension Program
Resources:
MAPP - High Performance Coaching
Tim Flannery - The Future Eaters: https://www.wob.com/en-au/books/timothy-flannery/future-eaters/9780730104872?gclid=Cj0KCQiAtJeNBhCVARIsANJUJ2Fg1MH3nCkKoxxgG0FXD0kncrypU7KDI23_ThkbuV8Gm8Kdiaq6jfUaAq-BEALw_wcB#GOR005265468
Saving our planet and global community - talking with professor Tim Flannery on climate action: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4yFzmh7qSoib01gtY2voh4?si=TN5AtpDVTLeY82rn_vl4jw
Kimi Hogan
Human Design - Jenna Carroll https://www.healthalchemist.com.au/human-design
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
David Smith and Tania Macdonald from Smith & Macdonald Management talk to Stephanie Pringle & Alison Fowler about the importance of the agent - actor relationship.
Smith and Macdonald Management are a boutique Talent Company based in Sydney, Australia. They represent some of Australia’s most renowned and established actors and creatives including Trevor Ashely, Charmaine Bingwa & Shirley Pierce.
David Smith
David Smith has worked in Show Biz for 45 years. Having made his first feature film Second Star to the Right in his native home in London aged 8, he continued acting (leaving school with no exams) whilst constantly working in film, television and theatre. Tap Dancer extraordinaire. He attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London for 3 years, studying Voice under the legendary Patsy Rodenburg. Sharing his 3 years there with Dan Craig, Joseph Fiennes, Orlando Bloom and his flatmate Ewan McGregor (it wasn’t a bad 3 years!) On graduating he joined the Royal Shakespeare Company touring the world with a number of plays, with stints at the National Theatre and ongoing roles on Eastenders, BBC sitcoms, BBC drama, BBC radio. David continued to work in all spheres culminating in his last feature film role as John Hemmings in Shakespeare in Love (only 8 Oscars but let’s not get greedy)… and his final Movie role was as LORD ARGON in YOUNG ALEXANDER THE GREAT.
In between downtimes, he worked for his agency Jonathan Altaraz Associates as a trainee agent, married the boss and moved to the other side of the desk. At the time, JA was one of the most influential agents in London representing everyone from Sir Dirk Bogard, most of the Lords and Ladies, discovering the likes of Gary Oldman (who they found at Drama school), Ewan (who came with David), Jude Law (who they discovered playing Fagin in a high school production of Oliver), Pierce Brosnan, basically most of the cream of British actors throughout the 80’s-90’s.
Whilst holidaying in Australia, David a) decided there was a niche market for an English style agency in Sydney or b) met a boy in a bar and decided to hang around and think about what he could do here. Choose whichever one you think is most likely…..
Drunken Showbiz storyteller and raconteur, David set up the agency Smith and Jones Mgmt almost 20 years ago as he was desperate for something to do and needed an Australian passport. Luckily 2 years ago he met TANIA MACDONALD, and she basically saved his bacon, joining him to move forward in creating SMITH and MACDONALD CREATIVE MGT, which reflects the way that boutique Management can evolve, representing not just marvellous acting talent…but Screen Writers, Playwrights, Designers and Directors Internationally. He is thrilled that these people continue to employ him to be their agent and representative after many many years, and he remains aghast at their complete lack of judgment of character.
Best Known for saying .. “ Look Darling… it’s only Showbiz, not Brain surgery…”
And,
“Darling...stop Kvetching…you’re getting paid a fortune for dressing up in funny clothes and pretending to be someone else for a living…I'll just say YES OK?...”
Tania Macdonald
Growing up with a sister who was destined to be a star (Danielle Macdonald), Tania saw firsthand the trials and tribulations that actors go through on their journeys. Through this experience, she learnt how best to understand the way actors think and as a result connect with them.
Having gone on to study Event Management and work in the hospitality sector for many years, she has always had an affinity with the world of entertainment and the artists who brought it to life. In retrospect, without fully realising it, Tania began her career of managing actors from a very young age as organiser of her sisters home concerts.
After a 7 year stint of living and working overseas (including Canada, London and Los Angeles), Tania returned back to Sydney where she met the incomparable David Smith there was an i -
Vic Zerbst is an award winning comedy director, writer and performer who's comedy series and sketches have amassed more than 70 million views online. Vic started directing comedy sketches on The Feed on SBS in 2019, where she still writes and directs.
Vic co-directed The War on 2020 including the sketch of The Contact Tracies which garnered comment from Taika Waititi and Chelsea Clinton.
We chatted to Vic about:
Women in comedy
Directing actors vs directing comics
Her work on The Feed, the Chaser and more
Auditioning the real you.
How directors choose the right person for a role
Authenticity
You can check out Vic via @freudiannip and @sbsthefeed and you can book tickets to the War on 2021 HERE
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
Darren Darnborough is a British-born Actor working in Hollywood. His TV & Film work includes hit US shows MacGyver, Magnum PI, 2 Broke Girls, Roots & True Blood. His upcoming projects include the films Abruptio alongside Oscar-winner Jordan Peele, and Jamojaya directed by Sundance-winner / Cannes-nominee Justin Chon.
Darren is also the Co-Founder and CEO of WeAudition.com - a revolutionary video-chat community for auditions, rehearsals, self tapes & advice.
We chatted to Darren about:
WeAudition - what is it, why actors should check it out, what we as Casting Directors use it for
The importance of having a strong reader for your self tapes
How to work a room
Reframing ‘networking’ as building relationships and top tips on how to do it without the Ick Factor.
What NOT to do in a networking opportunity
You can download the brand spanking new WeAudition App HERE
Follow WeAudition on INSTA
Follow Darren HERE
Sign up HERE and get 25% off with our code SAUCE25
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting -
In this truly insightful talk with the beautiful Socratis Otto we went deep early and covered so many interesting topics:
Mental health, anxiety, trauma and inner child
Highschool bullying
His journey into acting, including NIDA
The importance of saying no
His journey through NIDA
Tattoos and acting
Learning about the audition process - developing film and tv discipline on the job
Becoming an acting coach
How the audition process has changed
Advice for graduating actors
Leaning into what you’re good at and exploring different hats
Feature Film - The Flood and how Socs chooses a character
Authentic Casting
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting
This podcast is recorded on Gadigal Land, we acknowledge the traditional owners of the land in which we live and work and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. -
Sandy McIntyre talks to Stephanie Pringle and Alison Fowler about all things from casting to pronouns to the importance of living your truth.
Sandy McIntyre is a Non-Binary queer identifying person based in the Inner-West of Sydney. They work as a television producer and found that each show they produced, there was minimal LGBTQ+ representation. Because of this, Sandy decided to start their own website ‘Queerful’, where it’d be a space to tell queer stories, share queer experiences and educate not only those within the community, but those who’re cis, heterosexual and may have some questions unanswered.
Sandy’s core focus is authentic representation within Australian media. Most recently, they finished their contract at a leading network where they worked as their Casting Producer, Celebrity Producer and held multiple Gender Diversity presentations advising how we can create inclusive content for Australian audiences.
We discuss:
Reality TV Casting & Representation on Screen
Sandy talks about being Non-Binary and the importance of living authentically
We discuss how fashion plays a role in expressing non-binary identity
Pronouns, including misgendering, respecting people’s pronouns, why it’s important to have your pronouns in email signatures
What makes a good ally
Gender diversity, authentic casting, representation on screen and why it’s important to see queer people reflected in stories accurately
Gender norms with kids
Sandy’s website Queerful - a place to share Queer stories and a place of education and resources for allies
How to be more diverse and more authentic - hiring AND casting
Creating safety for queer people through representation
Website: https://www.queerful.com.au/
Instagram: @queerful_
Instagram: @sandymcintyre_
This podcast wouldn’t be possible without the generous time of our guests, our producer Pete Dillon from Fearless Collective and The Roller.
Website: www.chickenandchips.com.au
Self Taping Course: www.chickenandchips.com.au/onlinecourse
Instagram: @chickenandchips_
Steph Insta: @itsstephaniepringle
Al Insta: @itsalisonfowler
TikTok: @chickenandchipscasting
This podcast is recorded on Gadigal Land, we acknowledge the traditional owners of the land in which we live and work and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. - Visa fler
