The Actor’s Guide to the End of the World

Welcome to The Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 80! This one is packed, and we have new developments for the podcast as well.  The SAG-AFTRA deal is heading to a member vote — and before you cast yours, you need to hear this episode. We recorded this before the SAG-AFTRA National Board approved the tentative agreement, which makes everything we break down here an essential primer for what actors are actually being asked to sign off on. The streaming bonus structure, the 90-day window, the $40 million that never materialized — we get into the mechanics of why actors had problems with the financial terms in the contract in 2023 and why that matters to actors TODAY. The biggest questions: Did actors have any fight left? And do they have any leverage right now? Judging from the details of the new deal, we're not so sure.  E-Kan and Rían also talk about what taking power looks like - Issa Rae's new vertical is blowing up, and it might be a big sign of things to come with verticals and how it's shaping the entertainment industry. Part 2 of the SAG-AFTRA contract drops next week. We're going deeper on the vote, what's at stake, and what actors should actually be asking before they decide. This is your homework. Listen before you vote. As for the podcast, this is a soft launch of Season 2 because why not? Also, we launched a Patreon link if you want to support the podcast. Any donations will help us keep doing it and help us make it better. If you can't support, either way we appreciate you for listening and coming along for the ride. We will continue to put out the podcast for FREE everywhere you find your podcasts, and all video. Thanks for joining us!  Follow @actorsguidepodcast @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ActorsGuidetotheEndoftheWorldPodcast LINKS: https://deadline.com/2026/05/sag-aftra-board-approves-four-year-amptp-deal-1236898612/ Issa Rae Microdrama got 45 Mill views in a week: https://newsroom.tiktok.com/tiktok-bolsters-micro-series-content-with-first-of-its-kind-partnership-with-hoorae?lang=en  https://tappedinculture.substack.com/p/issa-raes-tiktok-microdrama-screentime https://www.tiktok.com/@hooraemedia/video/7626496879328595213 Hidden Gems:  Mickey O'Sullivan (acting classes, coaching, tapings in Chicago) - https://mickeyosullivan.com/ Monarch Nursery @monarchnursery (Plant Nursery in Santa Monica, CA)    

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 79! E-Kan and Rían unpack some lessons of wisdom and inspiration from the conversation with Mel Rodriguez last week, including how he found balance in such a chaotic industry. From there, deep questions arise, like "Have you ever gotten to the breaking point of quitting acting?, "Do you feel like you're 'one foot in, one foot out' of acting?, and "Do you place too much of your self worth on your career?" The guys also talk about the independent filmmaking spirit sweeping our industry, including how E-Kan started shooting a project he co-created, co-wrote, co-directing and starring in, this week.  He has many lessons and revelations after this experience, like how it might be a direction he wants to pursue more.  And the biggest revelation - if he was a casting director, actors might hate him. He’ll get into how he discovered and hired an actor for his project from a voicemail he left. This is a good one, guys, and there are many lessons learned, including maybe don't have a private Instagram if you're an actor... New episodes every week, wherever you find your podcasts.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for more during the week. Leave a review and share with a friend if you want to support the podcast!   Hidden Gems:  @peachy_parrot - Fun, colorful housewares Path of the Lost Star Wars fan-film by @roryross - https://youtu.be/t3IuiGOWzgs?si=N2WM6GZfMplv1g-y   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:07) Mel Rodriguez's wisdom (02:45) On the verge of giving up (04:25) What's better - Having diversified interests or singular focus on acting (08:35) The independent filmmaking boom (12:20) Listener's success story- Star Wars fan film (15:00) E-Kan's recent project he co-created and co-wrote (20:15) The stakes of creating your own project (29:00) E-Kan's crazy casting story (38:00) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 78 with special guest, Actor and Writer Mel Rodriguez (The Residence, Better Call Saul, Last Man On Earth). E-Kan and Rían talk to the hilarious Mel Rodriguez who shares about his storied career, including the time he had to drive away from Hollywood with his wife when a phone call changed everything.  He landed the HBO cult favorite Getting On and turned things around. In this episode, Mel opens up about four seasons working alongside Will Forte on Last Man on Earth, how generous Bob Odenkirk was on Better Call Saul, learning from geniuses like Laurie Metcalf and Niecy Nash, and why the Shonda Rhimes set of The Residence felt like an oasis. Plus the audition tip that changed his process forever and how he dropped 170 pounds and was featured on Men's Health and Men's Journal.  Hint: It started with one walk around the block. And the circle just kept getting bigger.   This conversation is packed with inspiration, practical acting wisdom and a lot of laughs. Enjoy!  Follow @actorsguidepodcast, new episodes every week and on all social media. Share with a friend if you want to help the podcast!  Follow @realmelrodriguez  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Mel Rodriguez - Men's Health -https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a70606667/mel-rodriguez-workout/ Men's Journal - https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a70606667/mel-rodriguez-workout/ Hidden Gems:  Barnsdall Art Park  Kahnversations at Lesly Kahn- intimate Q/As every month with industry professionals in LA - (free for students, $20/general) Nap-a-latte-Coffee Hack, for a quick recharge Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:20) Mel Rodriguez (03:00) E-Kan interned at Mel’s manager (04:40) Mel’s start in acting (06:00) Why he chose acting (08:05) Mel’s first break in NYC (10:20) Finding balance as an actor (11:05) The influence of his parents (13:52) How Mel found peace at a low point (16:50) Mel has a lot of stories to tell (22:00) The time Mel left Los Angeles (27:15) Building relationships and hard work pays off (29:00) Will Forte wrote a role for him (32:05) Bob Odenkirk (35:00) Lessons to his younger self (36:00 The Residence was an incredible experience (45:25) Sarah’s Oil (50:35) Men’s Health and the fitness journey (52:40) Was there pressure not to lose the weight? (55:52) Hidden Gems        

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 77!  This week we break down what's really happening to the working actor right now.  Over 2000 filmmakers and actors including Pedro Pascal, Florence Pugh and David Fincher signed a petition to block the Paramount-Warner Bros merger. E-Kan and Rían discuss why Damon Lindelof's brutally honest post about why he was afraid to sign it — and did anyway. Ben Affleck secretly built an AI company since 2022 and just sold it to Netflix for $600 million. We have the numbers — and they're not pretty for below-the-line workers. The irony isn't lost on us either how his model is to focus on the humanity behind filmmaking. To add to it, USC just launched an AI "institute" for actors. Who exactly is that serving and how is the youngest generation going to learn the craft?  And a practical real world story from an actor who showed up to an in-person callback only to realize the casting directors were Zooming in from another room down the hall as they stood alone in a room with a computer screen. It sparked a bigger question every actor needs to hear: How do you keep your power when the room gives you nothing? The guys also dig into the power of  "reverent irreverence", why you might not want to learn how to swim from Michael Phelps, Robert Redford's advice for not gripping on to tight, and why E-Kan’s parents are the coolest. New episodes every week, follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts and on all social media. Share with friend if you want to help the podcast, thanks! Hidden Gems:  Two Irish horror films - The Mummy, out now by Lee Cronin Hokum, starring Adam Scott  Romanaccia Pizza (just opened in Hollywood, CA) @romanacciapizza  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 76! Holly Shervey and Emmett Skilton, friends of the show and the creative force behind “Crackhead”, the New Zealand hit series now streaming on HBO Max. The show, which Holly stars in and wrote while Emmett directed, is based on Holly’s personal experience in a psychiatric clinic early in her life and has been getting rave reviews, sitting at the top of the charts alongside “The Pitt” and “Euphoria”. This episode, E-Kan and Rían get a treat and hear the entire journey, before the network deals, the cold call pitch to Warner Bros, how Holly and Emmett self produced TWO hit series, “Auckward Love” and “Millennial Jenny” before tackling the riskier and uncompromising “Crackhead”. This is a valuable lesson in creating your own content, finding the story that only you can tell, and why budget doesn’t mean “fu** all”. And how this creative dynamic duo discovered verticals before they were even a thing. On top of it all, Holly and Emmett just had their first child within weeks of their show premiering. This is an even better love story- you’ll also hear how Emmett was one of the things on Holly’s vision board that came true… This is a master class in finding your truth and listening to your gut.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, including YouTube and Substack! New episodes every week! Follow @hollyshervey @emmettskilton @crackhead_2026 @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Hidden Gems: "Deadloch" -Amazon Prime TV show "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms"- a Game of Thrones spin-off Alan Trinca VO demos- https://www.voicedemodude.com/ Free Ben and Jerry’s ice cream!   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (00:39) "Crackhead" is top of the charts (03:24) Start of their acting careers (06:45) Holly's early experience in psychiatric care (07:45) Emmett was on Holly's vision board (08:15) First jobs in New Zealand (10:00) Best lesson starting out (11:50) Their training ground for "Crackhead" (13:40) The actor is a very small cog (16:23) They got locations paying them to shoot there (17:40) They shooted the vertical before it was a thing (19:49) How they made it out to Los Angeles and fell in love (24:30) The training at Lesly Kahn and Los Angeles (26:45) The pitch to Warner Bros for "Crackhead" (28:30) Making people care (32:40) Taking shame away about mental health (36:00) "Crackhead" was a dream situation creatively (44:14) Bringing it back to what's real and true (50:40) Why Emmett was a "frame fu**** and a perfect director (51:40) The biggest challenges working together (55:35) Lessons from parenthood (56:42) Biggest tips for aspiring creators (59:08) Hidden Gems                

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 75! There is Jonathan Majors’ drama on his latest movie for, wait for it, Daily Wire..? Jonathan Majors and his costar fall through a window which highlights the importance of safety measures taken on set, labor rights, and sparks a larger conversation about working in today’s film industry. E-Kan and Rían dive into the drama, including a crew walk out and retaliation by the producers. Meanwhile, we have a SAG-Aftra negotiations update and breaking news for the WGA (the writers guild) and what exactly is the Tilly Tax? The guys have an honest conversation about the industry as an actor right now. What can an actor do right now? And how important it is to let your voice be heard to SAG's leaders.  To add to the mix - the very first completely AI generated TV series just got launched.. and not one actor had to go to set. How valuable are its performers and crafts people in Hollywood right now? E-Kan also brings up how many actors regret giving their likeness to AI companies after finding their faces on ads they had no idea about. This is what you need to know right now as an actor in Hollywood.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, and on all social media. @ekansoong @riansheehkelly   LINKS- https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/jonathan-majors-falls-window-daily-wire-movie-set-1236555831/ https://deadline.com/2026/04/iatse-strike-jonathan-majors-daily-wire-film-1236772506/ https://deadline.com/2026/04/jonathan-majors-falls-through-window-crew-strike-daily-wire-1236773038/ https://variety.com/2026/biz/news/hollywood-labor-talks-sag-aftra-wga-amptp-daily-variety-1236686156/ https://deadline.com/2026/03/sag-aftra-extends-negotiations-amptp-june-1236750573/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/writers-guild-tentative-four-year-deal-studios-1236555949/#:~:text=The%20provisional%20agreement%2C%20reached%20after,that%20those%20details%20are%20accurate. https://petapixel.com/2025/04/23/actors-are-regretting-licensing-their-likeness-to-ai-companies/ AI Tilly Norwood's Music Video is Trash-https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV1I2u1jzpB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/04/regrets-actors-who-sold-ai-avatars-stuck-in-black-mirror-esque-dystopia/ Hidden Gems:  SAG Conservatory (free classes for members)- Mary Gallagher (Stand Up Classes)  Myfriendmary.com Masters of Taste Food Event (April 19th, Rose Bowl, Pasadena) - proceeds to Union Station Homeless Services - https://mastersoftastela.com/   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:24) Jonathan Majors drama on set (04:30) Crew walks out, producer responds (05:44) The power of saying "No" as an actor (08:44) SAG-Aftra contract updates, WGA gets deal (10:27) The cost of using AI to replace actors (14:58) The first AI generated TV show just released (17:54) Actors regret giving their likeness to AI (25:24) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 74! A Los Angeles jury found Meta and YouTube liable for knowingly designing addictive platforms that harmed children — and with 1,500 similar cases waiting in the wings, this verdict is just the beginning. E-Kan and Rían break down what it actually means, why this might be Big Tobacco all over again, and what actors need to know about it.  Then — OpenAI quietly pulled the plug on Sora 2, their AI video platform, taking down a billion dollar Disney partnership with it. The guys will discuss why this is a signal, not just a headline and the many reasons why this venture bombed. Plus, our first ever FAQ segment, answering burning questions actors are actually asking right now, like what’s a fair cut that agents and managers should take, why no one’s talking about some that are charging 20%, and the actual number of actors that are going up for a role. We are getting to the bottom of it this week.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all platforms, and social media.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/mar/25/jury-verdict-us-first-social-media-addiction-trial-meta-youtube https://mashable.com/article/openai-sora-shutting-down Hidden Gems: Hollywood Boulders, @hollywoodboulders The AI Doc: or How I Became an Apocaloptimist, @theaidoc Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:20) YouTube and Meta lose historic lawsuit (08:45) Why social media companies are in trouble (09:40) Open AI shuts down Sora 2 (10:23) Disney loses their billion dollar deal (14:05) What are agents and managers charging for commission? (21:11) The startling trend happening in commercial agency contracts (26:45) How many actors go up for a role?  (36:00) The most important takeaways about self-tapes (39:28) Hidden Gems        

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of World, Episode 73! E-Kan and Rían go DEEP this episode, and even talk affirmations and mindset. But before we go down the rabbit hole, we have word about a possible U.S. federal film tv tax credit. The guys will break down everything you need to know as well as why U.S. might need one, and what Noah Wyle has to say about it. Meanwhile across the pond, UK just committed 9 billion in production just last year, and Ireland is booming with indie films, including Ethan Hawke's "Blue Moon" this Oscars' season. The plot thickens. E-Kan and Rian then talk mindset and how limiting beliefs are quietly (and not quietly) killing careers. Coleman Domingo never once believed he was a struggling actor while waiting tables- so why should you? Rian gives us an update on the Artists way journey, how it’s changed how he looks at creativity, and why David Bowie is the ultimate inspiration and E-Kan shares how one conversation about his hair changed everything for him. You’ll also hear one new way of doing affirmations E-Kan started using. Practical wisdom. Real stories. No fluff. Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Ireland film tax credits- https://deadline.com/2025/03/sxsw-ireland-film-tv-tax-credit-drop-blue-moon-the-astronaut-1236323489/   Ireland film tax credits https://deadline.com/2025/03/sxsw-ireland-film-tv-tax-credit-drop-blue-moon-the-astronaut-1236323489/ Noah Wyle video-https://www.instagram.com/reels/DWHwbNCkcLh/ Colman Domingo video-https://www.instagram.com/reel/DK2UYFLuTz_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==   Hidden Gems: Brokentalkers "Bellow" show https://brokentalkers.ie/whats-on/bellow-national-tour/ Affirmations Method   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:12) Federal Tax Credit? (4:05) What it’s like to work on the Pitt (06:05) How do Film/TV Tax Credits work and Why Ireland is tough to beat (10:40) Los Angeles Irish Film Festival (14:18) What are some limiting beliefs I had? (15:40)The Italian guy who has no fear (18:50) E-Kan’s negative story he got rid of (20:24) Zooming in and zooming out (22:18) Colman Domingo story (23:21) So what do you do about it? E-Kan is going to do it himself (25:37)Cynics are always right but never win (26:36)The Artists Way is eye opening (32:36) Why Rian loves David Bowie (34:00) Rian finds a hobby (36:40) Hidden Gems (38:40) Hunting Jacob Elordi (40:14) E-Kan and the haircut that changed everything

Sinners, PTA, and the Night Hollywood Got it Right... Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 72! The big night is here, and it lived up to all of our expectations.  Hollywood chose real filmmaking — and it was beautiful. E-Kan and Rían break down the biggest winners- Sinners, PTA, Frankenstein's practical effects sweep, as well as Conan's best bits, the speeches that stopped us cold, and how this Oscars made history like the first female cinematography winner and Best Casting Oscar. Also, what this night means for actors and the future of our industry and why Conan makes a great case for watching the show live… Best bits would be linked below, and there are a lot of them.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast, send to a friend if you want to help the podcast! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Conan’s opening monologue https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIcxwxMMjXg&pp=ygUPY29uYW4gbW9ub2xvZ3Vl0gcJCcMKAYcqIYzv Casablanca Sketch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQK_Uy8xjZg Sinners performance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3ae7BvTuC4 Paul Thomas Anderson Speech https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymG9WHPpt5o Performers present Casting Oscars https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4wILRyKaFQ&t=100s&pp=ygUOY2FzdGluZyBvc2NhcnM%3D Best Casting Oscar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZloizXlSj9Q Michael B Jordan Speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ly6TmTNq6EU&pp=ygUbbWljaGFlbCBiIGpvcmRhbiBiZXN0IGFjdG9y Amy Madigan speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOVfb_SxduQ&pp=ygUTYW15IG1hZGlnYW4gc3BlZSBjaA%3D%3D Jessie Buckley speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-Qv5NJxH2k&pp=ygUWSmVzc2llIEJ1Y2tsZXkgc3BlZWNoIA%3D%3D Kumail Nanjiani Best Short Live Action - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwwv_BrDvlU&pp=ygUSa3VtYWlsIHNob3J0IGZpbG1z Last Conan Sketch - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMzgcrvgFd8&pp=ygUSa3VtYWlsIHNob3J0IGZpbG1z0gcJCcMKAYcqIYzv Hidden Gems:  Irish Film Festival - https://ciacla.com/film/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23580600435&gbraid=0AAAAABxFSeYudHIwVDFoEwysGaNMJANr3&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9-PNBhDfARIsABHN6-09bnib7vcYygWK3w6NVHYo8hRDLVqu3hg-mLJWHbrLsxGCpTO3Ev8aAiGHEALw_wcB Sag-Aftra Foundation free events for Sag-Aftra Members -https://sagaftra.foundation/ https://nibble-app.com/ Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:13) Conan O’Brien crushed (05:50) How many passed on hosting the Oscars? (07:30) Conan handled the serious moments (08:40) Best Sketches (09:25) In Memoriam (10:40) Big Winners - Sinners and One Battle (11:50) Sinners dance montage had ballet (17:00) Where was Sean Penn? (19:15) First time Best Casting Oscar (22:26) Oscars tie for Best Short Film (23:20) The worst part of the Oscars (25:40) Big wins for Ireland (26:28) Amy Madigan and Jessie Buckley’s speeches (30:30) Coogler, del Toro, and PTA (33:30) Oscars are a boost of optimism (35:49) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 71! The Oscar race just flipped, and now Michael B. Jordan is now the favorite to beat Timothée Chalamet for Best Actor.  Was it Michael B. Jordan's win at the SAG Actor Awards or Chalamet's comments about ballet and opera? Both? We break down what he said, why it matters to Oscar voters, and the surprising family connection that makes it even more interesting. E-Kan and Rían got the full betting odds breakdown across every major category, and our picks for who wins and who should win.  You will also hear gems like the inside story of how Ryan Coogler and his casting director hunted down Miles Caton, a high school kid touring the country as a musician — and turned him into the heart of Sinners. A lesson in the power of casting, and the guys talk about the very first Casting Oscars this year.  Plus — the tip Chalamet learned from LeBron James about how to perform at the highest level.  Jessie Buckley is running away with Best Actress, but plenty of drama in the other categories, like Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress is a 3-way war, and Best Picture is Paul Thomas Anderons's to lose. Get ready everyone- The Oscars are this Sunday! And Monday we'll have our Oscars Reaction episode!  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, and on all social media. New episodes every Monday.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Oscars betting lines: https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/oscars Met Response to Chalamet's opera comments - https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVhCWgujcuV/ Conductor Alondra de la Parra's response - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVkqxdFiOWB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Their song for Timothée - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVjxJ0LiOG8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Esquire best thing to happen to Opera - https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a70698493/timothee-chalamet-movies-ballet-opera-contoversy/ Ryan Coogler talking about the one take montage in Sinners- https://youtu.be/nPut3MB2gs4?si=9g4qAW60xDRY0wex Hidden Gems: Pappy and Harriet's (Joshua Tree) Too Good To Go App (Discounted food to save waste) Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:26) Timothée Chalamet backlash affects Best Actor race (07:18) Best Actor race- Chalamet vs Michael B Jordan (12:31) Chalamet interviewed by... LeBron James?? (15:39) Jessie Buckley a lock for Best Actress (17:28)Supporting Actress is tight 3-way race (18:40) Best Supporting Actor - Sean Penn? (20:05) Best Casting is first time ever at the Oscars (28:15) What’s the best picture - Sinners or One Battle After Another? (37:22) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 70! Hollywood just got a whole lot smaller. The Paramount-Warner Bros.-Netflix drama is coming to a close with a stunning ending, and one company is about to own DC, Harry Potter, CNN, SpongeBob, the Sopranos, Game of Thrones, and countless other titles. E-Kan and Rían break down what a Paramount universe will actually means for actors,  creators, and beyond. It's not a rosy picture for everyone- Stephen Colbert, who's ending his show this year under CBS, just got forced to pull an interview by his own network's lawyers. Susan Sarandon says she hasn't been working after being fired by her agents for speaking out about Palestine, and Melissa Barrera got fired from Scream 7 for a social media post. Politics is in the building — and it's affecting careers. And then there's Markiplier. A YouTuber with 38 million followers spent three years making a $3 million indie film, and on his own distribution, got it into 2,500 theaters around the world in counting. Its made $50 million in month. This was a true lesson in perserverance, dreaming big, building trust with your audience, and the cavalry isn't coming- so make it yourself.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media and share with a friend if you enjoy!  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiTJ7Pz_59A https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/17/media/colbert-talarico-cbs-trump-fcc https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/mark-ruffalo-james-cameron-paramount-netflix-warner-bros-1236511611/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/susan-sarandon-banned-hollywood-gaza-ceasefire-comments-1236518699/ https://variety.com/2026/film/box-office/scream-7-rewrites-neve-campbell-salary-melissa-barrera-firing-1236671347/ https://archive.is/20260216170652/https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/2026/02/iron-lung-markiplier-youtuber-movie-review/686020/ Hidden Gems:  Train Dreams Netflix CIACLA Film Festival - https://ciacla.com/film/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23580600435&gbraid=0AAAAABxFSeZsETFMqzSx8Oe6Mx9NAMX59&gclid=CjwKCAiAqprNBhB6EiwAMe3yhjNXOGCXDFtYK--V4wYnmgrK1tllssMKzdfun7dii8_IahanZFdXgxoCRhYQAvD_BwE   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:26) Paramount WB Merger (04:18) Politics getting involved  (06:04) Colbert forced to pull an interview  (09:30) James Cameron vs Mark Ruffalo (11:30) Scream 7 falls flat  (14:50) Markiplier YouTube creator sells out movie theaters (19:30) We need more theaters, this is disrespectful (27:30) The power of in real life connection (28:18) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, episode 69! E-Kan and Rían recently stumbled on Ryan Coogler's deep appreciation for Irish culture, and they do a deep dive on how that comes through in his Oscar-nominated hit, Sinners, and why the lead vampire is Irish. They geek out on Ryan Coogler's beautiful DGA Awards speech, his families’ strong ties to unions, and why Sinners, which has been nominated for record breaking 16 nominations, is a masterpiece. This episode also is a rare opportunity to honor some special immigrant stories, including Rían’s. E-Kan will share his parents’ journey to the U.S., and clear up exactly how and why he does not know the difference between Neil Diamond and Paul Simon. There's also a lesson for creators and artists in there.  This is a special episode everyone, enjoy! Ryan Coogler's DGA Speech- https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1548374013100034 Ryan Coogler - “Luck of the Irish” story https://deadline.com/2025/11/ryan-coogler-dcom-the-luck-of-the-irish-influenced-sinners-1236619175/ Hidden gems: Stay Home Friend https://stayhomefriend.com/ This Bitter Earth/On the Nature of Daylight (Hamnet Song) https://open.spotify.com/track/0fVUKrJpQM7jMTgOABVkyi?si=Oa3o9ocKSjm97tvoVFKnrw  Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:00) Ryan Coogler’s DGA Awards speech and union ties (03:45) How important was it joining the union? (05:12) Ryan Coogler and his Irish ties (12:43) Why E-Kan doesn’t know Paul Simon and Neil Diamond (20:15) Lessons for creators (21:05) Rían’s immigration story (25:23) Hidden Gems        

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 68! Seedance 2.0, an AI video generator, just dropped new videos from the program and shots are fired. SAG-AFTRA immediately released their firmest statement yet declaring why it's infringement on its actors and stands by studios like Disney which has already sent cease-and-desist letters. E-Kan and  Rían break down why this AI feels different—because honestly, the Walter White videos look straight out of Breaking Bad, and so does the viral clip of Brad Pitt fighting Tom Cruise. Rían pushes back with the ultimate question: "Once I know it's AI, why would I care?"  which prompts a debate -  who has more to lose?  This is what actors need to know right now and could non-established creators might look at this as an opportunity? and Reagan drops the best historical take: remember when CGI was supposed to replace movies? We're still watching Hamnet. Speaking of things that are hard, E-Kan had his worst commercial audition in years this week and has many lessons learned, including why in-person auditions pairing up actors is like speed dating and blind dating at the same time, how blending the technical and organic skills of acting might be getting lost in the era of self tapes, and how even if you nail everything - you still can still bomb it.  Also, E-Kan and Rían had the special treat to see Jessie Buckley speak about Hamnet and her incredible collaboration with Chloe Zhao, both nominated for an Oscar. A lot of inspiration and wisdom in this episode, including how Jessie's humility about her craft might look different than say Timothée Chalamet's and how you can be in charge of your craft yet stay humble. New episodes every week, follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcast. The best way to support is to share with a friend!  https://deadline.com/2026/02/disney-bytedance-cease-and-desist-letter-seedance-ai-video-1236719549/ https://variety.com/2026/film/news/motion-picture-association-ai-seedance-bytedance-tom-cruise-1236661753/ https://geektyrant.com/news/sag-aftra-slams-seedance-20-after-ai-tom-cruise-and-brad-pitt-fight-video-blows-up-online Hidden Gems:  BOGO Offer from Everyday Dose and Sprouts Santa Monica Public Library (free printing)   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:07) SAG-AFTRA and Disney vs. Seedance 2.0 (05:00) The real threat to actors with AI (09:10) Is this an opportunity for non-established creators? (11:50) CGI never took over film (13:20) The worst commercial audition ever (21:30) The core skills of acting (23:30) Hamnet and Jessie Buckley (30:30) You can do all the work but you need the magic (32:20) Jessie Buckley's humility vs Timothée Chalamet's (35:35) Hidden Gems          

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 67! This week we have an extra-strong dose of actor inspiration. E-Kan shares how Denzel Washington and Delroy Lindo have been friends for 48 years since their acting conservatory, surviving on wheat bread and peanut butter, and how Denzel watched Delroy act in class and thought, “I need to get better." And after a conversation with Denzel helped Delroy fight off burn out, he’s now nominated for an Oscar. E-Kan and Rían also dig into what life really is like in the self-tape era as an actor. “Am I David Finchering myself with 75 self-tape takes?” The guys break down how they handle the mental toll of having “lines live in your head 24-7”, how actors are not paid for the majority of work they do, and what they think “being an actor” means in 2026. They also have an interesting follow up with the Marty Supreme non-actor discussion when Timothee Chalamet gets threatened by a non-actor on set. Also, does anyone know why they say don’t act with children or animals? You’ll hear more words of wisdom from Philip Seymour Hoffman and Ben Kingsley and Wonder Man co-star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II on what changed his trajectory as an actor. We also have another big step for vertical micro-dramas with the first SAG-Aftra Vertical Drama studio opening up in LA, with an Oscar-nominated actor to boot. New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including YouTube, Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media. @ekansoong @riansheehykelly   First SAG-Aftra Vertical Drama Studio opens- https://deadline.com/2026/02/knockout-shorts-launches-oscar-star-sag-project-matthew-ko-chris-crema-1236707321/ Timothee Chalamet gets threatened by actor on set of "Marty Supreme"- https://variety.com/2026/film/news/timothee-chalamet-threatened-by-marty-supreme-background-actor-1236632566/ Denzel-Delroy Lindo conversation- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXp9wAATmYM Philip Seymour Hoffman actor advice- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2KtZG3uqeU Wonderman Yahya video -  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUEOmilkjfs/ Full Wonder Man Conversation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifl_klRUo7o&feature=youtu.be Hidden Gems: Peppermint Capsules (nausea, migraines) Calm App - Papaji quote Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:15) First SAG-AFTRA vertical micro-drama studio opens (03:25) Timothée Chalamet gets threatened by non-actor on Marty Supreme (06:00) Don't act with kids or animals (09:30) Delroy Lindo and Denzel go back 48 years (12:00) Actors have a BS detector (13:15) The grind of doing self-tapes right now (24:05) Great actor advice from Philip Seymour Hoffman (24:50) Lessons from Ben Kingsley and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II from Wonder Man (28:50) What does it mean to be an actor right now in 2026? (37:10) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 66!  Vertical dramas are here, and they're not going anywhere. E-Kan and Rían talk about the $26 billion industry — but now, Kim Kardashian, Ashton Kutcher, and Taye Diggs are all in, as well as Netflix and TikTok building their own vertical dramas platforms. SAG-Aftra just put out a signatory contract so they can get in on it too. Will it be enough or will these mostly non-union dramas take over Hollywood?  And should actors do them? We break down the money, the risks, and a little tip SAG-Aftra actors can use to flip a non-union production. (The podcast covered vertical dramas back in Episode 36 last July, and let’s just say, things have escalated. If you want more of the nuts and bolts you can check that out.) Meanwhile, Odessa A'zion just turned down an A24 movie — and the reason might surprise you. And you'll find out why the current "It" Girl just got cooler in E-Kan's eyes. The guys also revisit the Kevin O'Leary debate from last week, and how a friend's observation might make you rethink O'Leary's performance.  Plus, we pay tribute to Catherine O'Hara with a quote that every actor needs to hear. RIP to a legend.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, including social media. New episodes every Monday.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly https://variety.com/2026/film/news/odessa-azion-drops-out-deep-cuts-a24-1236644176/ https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/global-microdrama-boom-1236560947/ https://deadline.com/2025/10/miramax-bill-block-gammatime-1236595530/ https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/taye-diggs-vertical-drama-romance-candyjar-1236632447/ https://petapixel.com/2026/01/29/following-tiktok-and-instagram-netflix-is-set-to-roll-out-vertical-videos/ Catherine O'Hara video- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUJWM6siPVG/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:15) Odessa A'zion drops out of A24 movie (03:50) Follow up on Kevin O'Leary's performance in Marty Supreme (08:55) Vertical Dramas are taking over Hollywood (12:30) How much do vertical drama actors get paid?  (14:00) Taye Diggs and other stars are getting in (20:00) How the tech world was smarter than Hollywood (24:15) Tribute to Catherine O'Hara  (26:30) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, Episode 65!  The Oscar nominations just dropped, and Sinners broke records with 16 nominations. E-Kan and Rían break down their favorites and top picks, but most interesting story - The guys diving into Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary casting debate. The Shark Tank billionaire got cast in a major role for Oscar favorite Marty Supreme with zero experience, and many actors are furious. The guys have an honest conversation about stunt casting, the acting industry, and what can you learn about it.  Then there's Miles Caton—20 years old, never acted before, and crushes it in Sinners while Odessa A'zion's "overnight success" actually took 10 years of work, and many are claiming it's nepotism due to her famous mother.  They are tackling all the uncomfortable questions: Does training even matter anymore? How do you compete with nepo babies and stunt casting? Plus, they explain Ryan Coogler's genius deal that lets him own Sinners in 25 years decode Oscar release strategies, and reveal why this year's nominations actually give us hope for the industry.  Hidden Gems:  https://elementalsuperfood.com/seedbars/ Tsujita Ramen @tsujitala (Arts District, Los Angeles)   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:13) Sinners breaks Oscars record for nominations (11:19) Thoughts on Hamnet and Weapons (16:46) Marty Supreme Kevin O’Leary casting controversy (20:57) And what about Nepo babies (22:40) What can an actor do about it? (25:21) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World, Episode 64! E-Kan and Rían dive into some more awards shows stories (the bad ones). There is an unfortunate trend, award shows are disrespecting filmmakers like giving Best Foreign Language Film - on the red carpet...? And then the Golden Globes cuts Original Score winner, Ludwig Göransson for Sinners, from the telecast to the dismay of many, including all time great, Hans Zimmer.  Also, this week, the iconic Radford Studio, where Seinfeld and Will & Grace were filmed, foreclosed, which is a shocking development that might just be the beginning. This gets the guys on the topic- would you go all in on Hollywood right now? Or should you be hedging your bets?  On the brighter side, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon's production company Artists Equity strikes a landmark deal with Netflix for their new movie "The Rip" that will award its entire crew and production if it performs well. E-Kan, however, is not convinced.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast for new episodes every Monday. Please leave a review and share with a friend if you enjoy it!  Red Carpet Award Disaster- https://www.reddit.com/r/Oscars/comments/1q4mxum/the_secret_agents_team_getting_handed_their_cca/ Radford Studios foreclosure-https://variety.com/2026/film/news/radford-lot-goldman-hackman-capital-partners-1236631832/ Stagerunner Video- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTimiuzgaL7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== CAA agent leaves Hollywood to become a therapist- https://deadline.com/2025/12/jacquie-katz-leaving-caa-therapist-career-change-reasons-1236652945/ Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Netflix deal -https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/the-rip-review-matt-damon-ben-affleck-netflix-teyana-taylor-1236474437/ Hidden Gems: Bun Mi (@bunandmi) (Santa Monica, CA) Power of Cloves- https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17jkigBzzo/?mibextid=UalRPS   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:16) Hamnet is incredible (03:03) Golden Globes cuts Original Score from the telecast (06:49) They gave the Critics Choice award on the red carpet (11:11) Radford Studios is going under foreclosure (14:12) Should anyone go all in on Hollywood right now? (18:53) Thinking of the people who affected your life (21:59) Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Netflix deal for “The Rip” (28:55) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 63! The 2026 Golden Globes happened, and we break down the best moments and some misses, but the real story this award season is Timothée Chalamet's unapologetic pursuit of greatness—and whether Hollywood thinks he's brave or cringe.  In a recent interview, he has said he’s doing "top level sh*t" and very open about his ambition, then he won the Critics Choice and Golden Globes over Leo DiCaprio, George Clooney, and Ethan Hawke.  E-Kan and Rían break down what might be the new playbook for Hollywood stars in the new era, has fame and the demands of being a star changed today, and E-Kan’s hot take- Is Timmy Chalamet the “millennial Daniel Day Lewis”? Also Joel Edgerton's admiration and respect for such honesty ("I wish I had the guts to say that"). You’ll also hear Carrie Coon's truth bomb that "acting isn't a meritocracy”. They also break down a muted Golden Globes and some big misses, like why were betting odds displayed during the telecast? E-Kan also shares a little life update, being back in LA and why left for the last year.  This is a good one, folks!  Share the episode with a friend if you enjoy it! And don’t forget to follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, video on YouTube and Substack, and on all social media platforms.  Chalamet Sag Awards Speech: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/timothee-chalamet-sag-speech-defending-great-actor-1236319180/ Top Level Sh*t: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKcGj67tv9I Carrie Coon - Economics of Theater https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTRJRIDDTul/?igsh=bWR6bm1lNTNxaWIx   Hidden Gems:  Julia Cameron’s The Artists Way LA Metro to the LAX airport Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:36) Why E-Kan left LA for a year (06:48) Could you live on the East Coast? (09:45) Golden Globes rundown (13:02) What was with the betting odds during the show? (13:59) The big winners (17:18) Marty Supreme (19:13) Timothée Chalamet’s PR run (20:52) Is Timothée Chalamet the millennial Daniel Day Lewis (25:20) Looking at Hollywood stars like professional athletes (28:41) Open confidence is not as common in Hollywood (30:37) What Joel Edgerton said about Chalamet (32:07) What actors can learn about competition (34:49) Carrie Coon - acting is not a meritocracy (37:02) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 62! Hope you had a great holiday, E-Kan and Rían are ready to kick off the year with a bang… This week, Stranger Things Finale was a massive success making $30 million dollars in two days, yet gave it all to AMC. The craziest part is how the actors saw NONE of it… Then the guys dive into Disney's $1 billion dollar OpenAI partnership and how they’re planning on rolling out generative AI content on their platform. Are you ready for your kids to grow up with AI starting in infancy? E-Kan and Rían talk about its implications and what actors can do about it right now and what this means for upcoming contract negotiations. They also go into SAG-Aftra’s current AI protections. Are they strong enough? And is this as doomsday as it seems? Some creatives have not responded well to the news, including a Disney creator who called Bob Iger and Disney “fu**** ghouls” and told their fans “to unsubscribe” and “pirate my show”. E-Kan and Rían also do an honest check in- how their year REALLY was. Welcome to 2026 everyone, thanks for making us a part of your day and listening this year. New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, and follow on all social media @actorsguidepodcast @ekansoong @riansheehykelly   LINKS: https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-stranger-things-finale-1236660176/ https://deadline.com/2025/12/stranger-things-finale-amc-adam-aron-1236659298/ https://deadline.com/2025/11/the-owl-house-creator-unsubscribe-disney-ai-content-1236619602/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/disney-openai-sora-investment-deal-1236448850/ https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/11/tech/disney-universal-midjourney-ai-copyright-lawsuit @sun.yi on New Years - https://www.instagram.com/p/DS7tysTDuOe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== @chadsand - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSIuUa-Em1T/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==   Hidden Gems:  Amazon's "Fall Out" Tv show Museums for All, free museum tickets program, Surrealism 100 at Philadelphia Museum of Art Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:10) New Years' Update (02:40) SAG-Aftra's W&W Meetings starting back up (03:11) Stranger Things Finale makes $30 Million in theaters (06:35) Disney creator slams Disney for making $1 Billion deal with Open AI (09:40) What are SAG-Aftra regulations on AI?  (11:40) Kids will grow up with AI (21:50) How was your year really? (26:10) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 61! Hope you're all ready to ring in the new year. We sure are and have a real banger of a Reddit Rundown, where we take our favorite bits from the acting subreddit, and this one was a doozy. An actor who's worked steadily for 13 years with only co-star credits to show for it asks, "Is it time to face reality and throw in the towel?" This is a deep one and might change how you look at success, the industry, and finding deeper purpose in our crazy industry. E-Kan has some strong feelings (that's an understatement) about whether the size of your roles are an accurate indication of your talent - ever hear the phrase, "There are no small parts, only small actors"?  while Rían gives some perspective and why "You can have results or excuses, but not both." We get to the root of the deeper questions of what makes our industry so difficult, why this is so relatable (and triggering) and what are some practical ways to stay in the game. Whether you're in year one or year twenty, this conversation will help you get some clarity on how you look at your career and how you measure success.  They also follow up with some holiday party survival stories and some great networking tips they gained. This is holiday pep talk you'll to want to end the year.  Links:  Jim Carrey Story - https://www.instagram.com/reels/DFbsqoDvoAo/ Lucy Bevans Casting Director Story- https://www.instagram.com/reels/DSJGqSzkuIn/ Hidden Gems:  Whereever You Go, There You Are- Practical Meditation Book - https://www.amazon.com/Wherever-You-There-Are-Mindfulness/dp/1401307787 The Dublin Gothic Show (Dublin)- https://www.abbeytheatre.ie/   Time Stamps:  (00:00) Intro (01:58) Holiday Party Survival Stories (05:07) Best Party Networking Trick (09:43) Rían played an Irish Psychic (11:00) Reddit Rundown- Is it time to give up? (15:50) E-Kan's response (21:30) The titles of co-star vs guest star (30:27) Inspirational Jim Carrey story (34:25) The final word (38:05) Casting Director Lucy Bevans story why you should do everything (39:21) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to Episode 60 of the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World! McDonald's pulls their AI-generated holiday ad after massive backlash—and the studio’s response might have been even worse…  If AI is supposed to revolutionize everything, why did it take so much work for something that didn’t work? Then we dive into the biggest Hollywood deal in years: Netflix's $83 billion bid for Warner Bros and “Succession-like” love triangle with Paramount, hostile takeover bid and all. Paramount tried to pony up with $108 billion and we haven’t heard the end of it yet. E-Kan and Rían dig into what they think this means for the future of Hollywood, and whether it’s a good thing… including Netflix taking over 540,000 sq feet of studio lot in the UK and why Christopher Nolan said he’ll never work with Netflix. The guys also talk about the ongoing SAG-Aftra Wages and Working Conditions meetings and upcoming contract negotiations with the studios this 2026. In case you forgot, the last contract went to a historic double strike with the actors and writers. No doom and gloom (completely)—just the facts, some laughs, and what it all means for working actors.   https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/warner-bros-to-oracles-larry-ellison-on-paramount-offer-your-trust-isnt-enough-we-want-/articleshow/126056779.cms https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2025/12/09/mcdonalds-ai-generated-ad-controversy-explained/ https://www.businessinsider.com/warner-bros-david-zaslav-ignored-ellison-text-paramount-skydance-netflix-2025-12 https://www.businessinsider.com/warner-bros-david-zaslav-ignored-ellison-text-paramount-skydance-netflix-2025-12 https://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/warner-bros-discovery-board-rejects-rival-bid-paramount-2025-12-17/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/warner-bros-discovery-golden-parachutes-david-zaslav-1236452973/  https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/christopher-nolan-interview-dunkirk-netflix-1201857101/ Hidden Gems: Polo & Pan (French electronic duo) - Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3TQFivLJEbn2JgUmRe7TyV?si=cD_4ZWL2RGSHix9rua7jdg&pi=6RD0khvqTm2OF Patrick Massett’s new song “Christmas Every Day” - https://open.spotify.com/track/6IWH8iXvU6UHb6Pnppkf0W?si=-UPihDZMS76BC5Kgkv7RFA   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:14) McDonald’s AI Ad disaster (05:35) Sag-Aftra contract up for renegotiation (08:05) Attending the W&W contract meetings (16:22) Netflix-WB Deal (25:40) Christopher Nolan will never work with Netflix (30:13) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 59! Actor, teacher, producer, and friend of the podcast Mickey O'Sullivan (Mayor of Kingstown, Chicago PD) joins us today with a wide ranging conversation. From booking diaper commercials at age 2 to working for Green Peace to recurring on shows like Chicago PD and Mayor of Kingstown, Mickey's path has been anything but conventional.  Mickey and the guys have a raw and thought provoking conversation about his childhood growing up playing hockey, how treating Hollywood like a team sport has helped him, and what he's learned from shooting a sketch every week for the past year. You'll get an insight into how Mickey treats the business like a sport - studying data and mastering the fundamentals, and what he thinks the Hollywood industry is missing and can learn from pro sports. They also talk about craft and you'll hear his self-tape secrets that got him from hating them to loving them.  And the time he forgot the lines and still booked a hit show.  Mickey also shares his experience working for a think tank, why the job isn't coming up with good ideas, but having the freedom to come up with the bad ones and how he used those skills to create his own writers room.  This is an inspiring episode and the perfect jump start to 2026.  Information on Mickey O'Sullivan's classes are HERE - https://mickeyosullivan.com/ Mickey's IG: @themickeyosullivan Mickey's IMDB: http://imdb.me/mickeyosullivan Mickey's Sketch Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO9GPVqLtOh8Q_uAXliMhWg Follow @actorsguidepodcast, new episodes every Monday! If you want to support the channel, send to a friend and leave a rating! Hidden Gems:  Pappy's and Harriet's in Joshua Tree @pappysandharriets VO Demo Reels- https://www.voicedemodude.com/ Social Sauna in Chicago -  Lost Languages Sauna @lostlanguagesauna  Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (03:40) Mickey O'Sullivan doing diaper commercials when he was 2 (08:30) Going all in on acting (11:30) Janitor by day, auditions at night (17:50) You can't build a fire without wood  (20:40) Athletics is performance and what athletes and actors have in common (24:10) It takes the right time and the right people (26:20) Starting his own writer's room (30:00) What happens when you look like an ICE Officer (26:25) Practical tips on how to handle small talk (31:14) "Can you be more honest?" (34:20) Most important thing to do if you're moving to NYC (37:50) Most marathon runners don't sleep before the race (40:25) Bigger sets are easier than smaller ones (41:50) Forgetting the lines and still booked the job (47:25) Always try to find the ledge and push the limits (50:18) How Hollywood can learn from the sports world (53:50) Mickey's holistic approach that he teaches (01:03:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 58 of The Actor's Guide the End of the World Podcast! Apologies this episode got up late, but it's worth it. The holidays are here and can be magical—unless you're facing the dreaded "So what have you been in?" question. In this episode, E-Kan and Rían tackle the unique challenges actors face during family gatherings, from navigating loaded conversations to finding that perfect pivot away while you're cornered at the cranberry sauce. E-Kan shares his own journey dealing with his strict math-professor father's expectations to finally finding peace with his career choice while Rían shares that early in his career, his resentment towards the question were more of an indication of how he felt himself.   They discuss practical strategies for holiday survival (spoiler: lying about being a heart surgeon is an option), why actors deserve more credit for the tenacity it takes to stay in this industry, and why being present in uncomfortable moments might actually be our superpower. Also how handling these questions might be a useful skill that can be trained, and if you stick to the end, E-Kan and Rían get into a debate about the Cabdriver vs Corporate Worker - who's in a safer position?  Whether you're dreading Thanksgiving dinner or genuinely love the holidays, this episode offers both comic relief and real talk about self-worth, family dynamics, and why your day job doesn't define you—even if Aunt Karen thinks it should. Whether you're celebrating or not, happy holidays everyone and be safe.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcast, and on all social media. @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Hidden Gems:  Mickey O'Sullivan classes (Chicago and remote) - mickeyosullivan.com @themickeyosullivan Gianino's Pastries (Italian pastries, South Jersey)- 508 Hurffville - Cross Keys Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080 (856) 582-1888 Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (02:21) Does it slow down for actors during the holidays? (04:24) E-Kan’s father wasn’t always supportive (08:15) Rían’s parents were open to the arts (10:25) What to do when you’re waiting (12:20) Leaning into what you’re excited about (16:30) What is small talk? (21:50) Can an actor separate themselves from their career and the craft? (26:25) Practical tips on how to handle small talk (34:14) The cabdriver vs corporate worker (41:40) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 57, the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast! In the spirit of the holidays, we thought we’d thank all of our incredible guests from this past year with this holiday sampler of the best moments from their interviews. If you want to review or go do a deep dive into the full interview - links are below. E-Kan and Rían will discuss with Oscar-nominated writer Kirsten Sheridan about how she developed her directing process and why her maternal instincts kicks in on a set, as well as what It was like working with a 24-year old Cillian Murphy. Patrick Massett (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Friday Night Lights, and the Blacklist) will talk about taking risks and how it has played such a key role in his career. You’ll see why there’s a photo of Mick Jagger hanging in his living room. Kevin Walsh (Criminal Minds) is a former pro football player and takes the guys into the mind of a pro athlete and why they say athletes make great actors. Timothy Davis (Billions, The Girlfriend Experience) with an in-depth look at how the Actor’s Studio, along with its shortcomings, have shaped him into the actor he is today. Shaan Sharma will break down his game-changing practical approach to building a career and building relationships through being of service. Brandon Finn takes us behind the scenes getting his first series regular opposite Jason Momoa on Apple TV’s Chief of War and what helped him step up to the challenge. Brian Stepanek will share how he became a beloved cult character to 20 and 30-somethings everywhere, despite his agent telling him not to take it. You’ll also hear the most incredible Gene Wilder story.. This is a special one, thanks again for coming along for the ride with us. Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcast, and on all social media. @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Full interview links:  Kirsten Sheridan: https://youtu.be/0Ltd3qxgsQI?si=s2tp8y7x-F3PhdaO Patrick Massett: https://youtu.be/ZxkStpVz8Rk?si=hxmmmRQre6USkkXH Kevin Walsh: https://youtu.be/Qdwqk4WdZGw?si=4zIbXgok3CJQMGj- Timothy Davis: https://youtu.be/RoXxiv0B66o?si=N0kPNchSWr-rr2CE Shaan Sharma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVcU1eMet00 Brandon Finn:  https://youtu.be/ne32qRxy-ks?si=UhNlPQuK3-PH4-Yz Brian Stepanek: https://youtu.be/lUdymwTQMnQ?si=eA5VRlSfNMWc4Di5 Hidden Gems: Mickey O’Sullivan’s in person Acting Classes in Chicago and remote mickeyosullivan.com Gianino’s Pastries (South Jersey) 508 Hurffville CrossKeys Rd, Sewell, NJ   Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Kirsten Sheridan on what makes a great director (06:40) What working with Cillian Murphy was really like (08:34) Patrick Massett why he gravitated towards writing (11:40) Studios aren’t taking risks like they used to (12:50) How they got Angelina Jolie to be in Lara Croft Tomb Raider (16:26) Kevin Walsh how storytelling and acting followed him through the years (19:00) Why pro athletes make great actors (22:18) Timothy Davis on the shortcomings of acting programs (26:07) Shaan Sharma how there’s room for success for everyone (28:12) The old school mentality of the union is a problem (29:00) The power of focusing your goals as an actor (33:15) Brandon Finn landing his series regular role opposite Jason Momoa (38:03) Brian Stepanek on the role he is most known for (39:59) The best Gene Wilder story    

Welcome to the Actors’ Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 56! It’s that time of year again - it's awards season and time to watch great films, as E-Kan calls it, checking in on the creative diet and staying fit. E-Kan also drops some wisdom picked up watching Guillermo del Toro, Oscar Isaac, and Jacob Elordi speak at a Frankenstein screening and how del Toro’s gems changed his mind on the mystique of the film director and what makes great directors. Also Jacob Elordi has some unhinged advice for actors that goes viral, which E-Kan loved - and many actors didn’t. E-Kan and Rían discuss Elordi’s “bloody” acting tip, what makes acting advice helpful, and how it can be dangerous for younger actors. E-Kan and Rían do their inaugural “Greatest Movies Never Seen” segment and in honor of Tom Cruise receiving an honorary Oscar this week, they take it back to 1983 and watched “Risky Business” for the first time. For those wondering why we chose “Risky Business”, it’s one of the few “Tom Cruise” movies we have not seen.  Aside from some dated aspects of the film (like the premise of running a brothel out of your family’s home), they break down why it stands out amongst the cookie-cutter coming-of-age films we see today and how fascinating it is to see a 20-year old Tom Cruise bust onto the scene, right when his career was sky rocketing. They discuss some great secrets from behind the scenes, like the crazy diet Cruise got on to give him that adorable baby fat. E-Kan also shares what it was like watching Cruise and Rebecca DeMornay’s screen test (link below) and even saw them do a little Lesly Kahn acting trick in the test (Actors, you’re going to want to steal this). And you’ll hear who received their newly created “Clint Howard” Award, named after Ron Howard’s beloved and lesser famous brother … you’ll want to hear the explanation. This is a fun one, everyone. Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, new episodes every Monday! Video on YouTube and Substack LINKS:  Sophie blog The Final Scene Substack - https://www.thatfinalscene.com/ Jacob Elordi audition advice- https://youtube.com/shorts/pgS6KyL1LVk?si=SypqPpO4WEBQ8x8P Frankenstein Screening conversation with Del Toro, Isaac, and Elordi- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5sQhzju0RA “Tom Cruise” speech https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWZKuueumJE “Risky Business” screen test -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok47XuYDEKk   Clint Howard MTV awards sketch - https://www.instagram.com/reel/C98Kfetv7P4/?hl=en Hidden gems Glucosamine Lotion for joint pain - https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Glucosamine-Arnica-Liposome-8-Ounce/dp/B001B7I2YW/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1O1O25TYJ4HAJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kUCD113KdLOqdNU-Rn71q0MXAHToiVNBje_4oBzVpf0byMgf0EbNPahQ16XXa5yxibG7wstok9c3Chh5k9o9Im0Bq4WbzMj4dNOEU3X8cqjXIvBPp5_Xo8caHj7YRFjiYXCO0cEHEmL4eZpAtPpIse2u1wq1VdIZbzsxJO6g4jlF7Lc1GpA09e4Jrv7EszLInYWfVxHmT7ltivCCU8kfKmhj9ijlnj_RO5trk4hYMxsbQupVdMHu9N7rdDJON2Y97JZ5iqQD06uAJBRDmAhCF9pRBvsjMWyRQPUg2gDcrUU.iVuU4GjsP0f5YgHtA-du5q27tkOiXypoZgKuBooZHVA&dib_tag=se&keywords=glucosamine%2Blotion%2Bmsm&qid=1764047151&sprefix=glucosamine%2Blotion%2Bms%2Caps%2C397&sr=8-6&th=1 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/raisin-water   Time Stamps: (0:00) Intro (2:42) Feeding the creative diet watching good movies (5:20) Frankenstein with Guillermo del Toro, Oscar Isaac, and Jacob Elordi (07:20) Guillermo del Toro says “they’re playing football” (12:30) Jacob Elordi’s crazy audition advice (16:44) The danger with acting advice (23:00) “Risky Business” and Greatest Movies Never Seen (33:00) How Tom Cruise is the ultimate Every Man (35:50) Does Risky Business hold up?  (38:20) Watching the Risky Business screen test (45:22) The “Clint Howard” Award

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 55! The week we're pulling back the curtain on the maybe not-so-quiet retreat. The numbers are in for 2025, and they're brutal in terms of women directors, and in some ways, non-white directors over all. E-Kan and Rían break down to what might be driving that, and what that means for us performers and creators moving forward and some bright spots.  Michael Caine announced he will be licensing his voice to an AI-startup backed up by Matthew McConaughey while Morgan Freeman fires shots, saying his lawyers are busy hunting all those out there stealing his voice without his consent. Welcome to the Wild, Wild, West, and the guys try to make sense of it. Also, we talk more about Abba, as you know we love here at the podcast.  There are some bright spots, including Paramount and Disney commit to putting in more money aimed towards content, and the one thing we know-if you want it, you have to go out there and make it.  Follow us @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, and on all social media, including TIkTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Substack.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Gene Wilder story TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8DoMtej/ https://www.ign.com/articles/michael-caine-says-licensing-his-voice-to-matthew-mcconaughey-backed-ai-audio-company-is-using-innovation-not-to-replace-humanity-but-to-celebrate-it https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2025/10/01/abba-voyage-ticket-sales-revenue-2024/ https://theankler.com/p/female-directors-and-hollywoods-grim https://theankler.com/p/hollywoods-backslide-into-white-male https://finance.yahoo.com/news/paramount-plans-price-increase-1-095028265.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAL-kpmkYFLUqK_wWZM9Ynkn0Kdk7rYTqVusPhPQ5u5TYinbShkDVVavLpugzh6Lgzpb8NdbE1iEmN1_XVKROop_1e9NUlqty01zULXk2ldKrNVEKuIXx3PeLAOp9kOa3xvTCho0pTkFcv5BLQ3vk9jHqB_BLaXlJnJFMOVr8Kar0 https://wdwnt.com/2025/11/disney-increasing-content-spending-1-billion/ https://deadline.com/2025/11/nearly-half-lgbtq-tv-characters-canceled-glaad-1236608720/ https://deadline.com/2024/11/afm-film-sellers-tell-ifta-they-wont-return-las-vegas-2025-will-set-up-own-market-1236177365/   Chad Sanders “Black Art Bubble” https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP6hJ-KDZQt/?igsh=MWJsbXBrODV2N21tcw== Paramount racial layoff? - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQclLZ9Eo6-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Hidden Gems:  Turn off "Access When Locked" on Iphone - "General", "Face ID & Passcode", Allow Access When Locked- Turn Off Control Center Petit Salons Monday Screening Nights at Petit Ermitage Hotel Time Stamps:  (0:00) Intro (3:00) Great CD Patrick Rush appearance at Lesly Kahn (6:25) Michael Caine licenses his voice at AI startup (11:45) AI chatbots are causing psychosis (17:33) Abba's virtual show sells a million tickets (24:40) Hollywood migration to Nevada and AFM  (29:20) Women filmmakers drastically down in 2025 (31:20) How scared is Hollywood?  (36:50) Paramount and Disney commit billions of dollars to new content (39:10) If you believe in it, make it  (40:53) The genius of Chad Sanders and the black art bubble (45:27) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 54! This week E-Kan and Rían discuss the Martin Luther King, Jr. - Open AI controversy and the scramble to remove inappropriate Martin Luther King, Jr. Deep Fake videos. (*Disclaimer: there was a mishap with E-Kan's audio for this episode. Major apologies and it was a fluke, we promise.) Also Hollywood’s elite agencies like CAA and UTA have made statements calling out Open AI, opting their clients out. The guys will break down what you need to know to protect yourself, what states have AI protections, and why CAA already has a vault of digital replicas of its clients. E-Kan also brings up an interesting study about how seeing unauthorized likenesses of yourself can feel like actual physical pain. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom - they dive into their creative inspirations and favorite musicians, Mac Miller, David Bowie, and the shocking revelation that E-Kan knows nothing about the Beatles. And you’ll hear his crazy hot take on the piano vs the guitar. A timely blend of AI anxiety and personal revelation you didn’t know you needed. Follow us @actorsguidepodcast on all social media and wherever you find your podcasts. Video on YouTube and Substack! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly    https://variety.com/2025/film/news/caa-openai-sora-2-harmful-intellectual-property-1236543954/ https://variety.com/2024/digital/news/caa-vault-talent-ai-clones-veritone-1236001187/ https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/friendships-social-media-posting-consent-viral-law-b2798907.html   Hidden Gems:  Line Learner App  The Almanack of Naval Ravikant https://www.navalmanack.com/ Time Stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:48) The first time E-Kan was on stage (5:35) Sora 2 has a Martin Luther King Jr problem (09:00) The states that have AI protections (12:00) Tilly Norwood creator has 40 more AI Synthetics to be released  (13:05) How do you protect yourself if you're deep faked (14:50) Technology is everything that doesn't work yet (19:00) Who's older - The Beatles or Abba? (22:55) E-Kan's hot take on the piano vs the guitar (25:00) E-Kan's limited music tastes and obsession over Mac Miller (32:50) How Labyrinth and David Bowie blew Rían's mind (37:10) A surprising study when you see unauthorized photos of yourself (39:30) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast where we talk about acting and Hollywood in a way people understand. Today is good one, guaranteed to lift your spirits or all your money back.  Ireland recently announced that the will offer a Basic Income for artists, previously a pilot program for three years, but now PERMANENT moving forward into 2026. MIND BLOWN.       E-Kan's ready to move there, who's with him? The guys discuss what this means for other countries and how big this really is.  E-Kan also has a recent revelation watching theater in NYC, including Hamilton TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW, which he might call life-changing. They break down what they think the differences between acting for Film/TV vs on the stage and some differing opinions.  Rían will recap how uber-successful TV director David Nutter's (Game of Thrones, Sopranos, The West Wing) showcase went. David Nutter recently made a very special visit to Lesly Kahn Studios to speak to the actors this month and brought a group of Norwegian actors to Los Angeles for a live showcase. The guys also talk about the kind of perseverance they have gained in their years in LA which prompts a Chinese proverb from E-Kan... Stick around to the end, every episode the guys share hidden gems - recommendations we’ve picked up on the way to say thanks for listening. E-Kan's Gem is courtesy of a little tip from Lesly Kahn, and is something all actors should be adding to their routine, more important now than ever.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack.  @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Leave us a review and rating if you enjoy it!  https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/ireland-basic-income-artists-program-permanent-1234756981/ Hidden Gems:  Hamilton Cheap Tickets (Standing Room Only) Actor Wellness Tip https://www.amazon.com/Australian-Bush-Flower-Essences-Clearing/dp/B00757UBVY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ACSWS96AJ4YL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TRBWbWEZBSMdtGPPMrTCGEHfB4o-ajfw7MmuiyMQrXO2gmV2AGSXzrpCAQ-Oyt1PUtV0JBciNJqQ1og8mDxpAgKpa8jrIuPtjz6RwD_3Tx67MxR5TxJR721A8cVVFNbijvj7JC3HoYPQxw8N7QbGlf8LqRE4t_rBvyNqSsGW3GGxg37rW9dZNjEBSWXXKOiLZ1nzAi5xzucTtMkt1jW30Q.cdotDyWBiuHMEitW_CDRUTS7LkeKv4KGrqracOgYmz0&dib_tag=se&keywords=australian+bush+flower+essence+clearing&qid=1762286448&sprefix=australian+bush+flower+essenceclearing%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1 Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:35) David Nutter brought Norwegians to LA (7:42) Is the Golden Age of LA over?  (14:20) The greatest Chinese proverb ever (20:30) E-Kan falls in love with theater  (23:20) E-Kan watches Hamilton TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW (25:20) Do actors have more power on the stage than in TV/Film? (33:20) Ireland offers Basic Income to Artists permanently? (44:35) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 52! We get back to the ongoings in the industry, and it’s a lot of bad (surprise), but there’s some good too. Casting Networks, the casting site that most actors need to subscribe to, announced major changes about charging fees to agents and managers. (Video attached below.) E-Kan and Rían talk about the repercussions and what actors need to know, as well as speculation of AI entering the casting industry which brings up the question - would AI replace casting directors, and what would that look like… But some great news as well- California has huge push for projects coming into the state, including Heat 2, a Daniels film, and a Jumanji movie. Also, Rían’s Rainmaker just got picked up for another season! The guys also share lessons learned from recent guest Brian Stepanek and hugely successful director David Nutter who recently spoke at Lesly Kahn Studios. Some real dimes in this one, you’ll want to hear this. We also have another Reddit Rundown, where we go into the hottest topics on the actor subreddit, and an actor sent cold emails to top 60 agencies ranked on IMDB, and the results might surprise you. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly  HIDDEN GEMS: NY Ferry - https://www.ferry.nyc/ https://tubitv.com/movies/100047053/glamping Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:10) Brian Stepanek afterparty  (6:11) David Nutter hugely successful director talks about his process (16:35 ) Where the younger generation will learn (18:12) Casting Networks announces changes that might devastate actors (28:00) Will AI replace casting directors?  (36:00) Big projects coming to LA and California (37:20) Reddit Rundown- An actor sent cold email to top 60 agencies      

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 51! Award-winning actor-director-teacher Brian Stepanek (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, Transformers, and many others) joins E-Kan and Rían to share his incredible journey successfully transcending every genre from musical theater to one hour drama, to Michael Bay movies, commercials and voice over to directing for TV, guest teacher at Lesly Kahn Studios, and now podcasting (Here from There with Brian Stepanek) as well This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and incredible advice for actors. You’ll hear how his childhood in Cleveland and visiting Second City in Chicago drove him to comedy and musical theater, performing a one man musical through the coldest winter in Chicago history, to the breakout role that would make him a fan favorite among children and young adults everywhere - and how his agents told him not to take it. Brian shares advice he got from his father that he took to heart and contributed to his massive success, how he became the face of a phonebook company, how he struck up a long time collaboration with directors like Michael Bay, what he learned working with comedy legends like Jim Carrey, Garry Shandling, and Carl Reiner - and a very special moment with Gene Wilder. You’ll also hear why he wants to give everyone that moves to Los Angeles to act a big hug. Enjoy this episode with Brian Stepanek.   Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! Follow Brian Stepanek @brianstepanek Brian’s Podcast “Here from There w/ Brian Stepanek” - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-from-there-with-brian-stepanek/id1802290098 Brian’s IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0826745/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_brian%2520stepanek @ekansoong @riansheehykelly  HIDDEN GEMS: Tools of Titans- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36146011-tools-of-titans Brian’s Podcast “Here from There w/ Brian Stepanek” - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-from-there-with-brian-stepanek/id1802290098 Parkinson's Law Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/627206.The_New_Drawing_on_the_Right_Side_of_the_Brain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_20     Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:25) How it all started in Cleveland (5:40) Doing a one man musical during Chicago in the winter (8:46 ) How “Suite Life of Zack and Cody” changed his life (12:10) Incredible advice from his father (15:10) The rough welcome to Los Angeles (17:50) He wants to give everyone who moves to Los Angeles a hug (19:20) The role that his agents told him to pass on (23:00) He wasn’t what they were looking for and booked it anyway (26:40) Kids go crazy when they see him (31:10) Doing voices for Jim Carrey (33:00) Meeting Gene Wilder (37:50) What he learned from the comedy greats (40:55) Brian’s favorite story of facing fear (44:45) Working with Michael Bay (55:28) Why he went to Lesly Kahn Studios (1:03:00) How to direct for TV (1:12:20) Embracing Impostor Syndrom (1:18:20) The honest truth about social media as an actor (1:27:00) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, this is Episode 50! We have decided to look back on the past 50 episodes and talk about what the experience was like,  what was our favorite parts as well as the biggest surprises. The conversation ranges widely from takes that we thought we got right, and some that were wrong, and how the podcast changed our mind on certain things. This is a wide-ranging conversation, and have you ever heard of the Soderbergh - three shot rule?... This is a special one, thanks to everyone for the support and sharing the journey with us. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! @ekansoong @riansheehykelly Soderbergh 3 shot rule- https://www.andsoitbeginsfilms.com/2018/04/breaking-down-steven-soderberghs-three.html   HIDDEN GEMS: Diary of a CEO with Vanessa Van Edwards Body Language Expert- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHUrdELKjDw John Donahue “Benedictus” -   https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1056526.Benedictus Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) Our take on AI (7:40) The Gen-Z Stare (10:50) Biggest surprise of the podcast (18:15) On setting goals as an actor (21:30) Rían’s clips from his life plays in his head (28:00) Watching self tapes for 4 seconds (33:25) Hidden Gems  

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 49! Special treat, friend Brandon Finn (Chief of War) joins E-Kan and Rían and shares the whirlwind the past few months has been. Brandon Finn plays Prince Kupule on Apple TV's "Chief of War" co-created by and starring Jason Momoa, Cliff Curtis, and premiered August 1 to rave reviews.  The show depicts the rarely told incredible history of Hawaii, how the rival kingdoms fought and eventually united.  Brandon also shares how much it actually is like Game of Thrones and what it means for the legacy of the state, native people, and the Hawaiian language.  Brandon also opens up about the roller coaster ride that is his acting journey - working as a flight attendant on Hawaiian Airlines, embracing self tapes, getting cut from movies, and eventually his first series regular role. As if that wasn’t enough, Finn also gained twenty pounds to play Prince Kupule and learned Olelo, the Hawaiian language.  Rían also finds similarities to Hawaii's story in Ireland's history.  Insightful, engaging, and most of all inspiring - this conversation was a blast! Watch "The Chief of War" on Apple TV, streaming now.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all podcast platforms, including video on YouTube and Substack.  Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media! Brandon Finn - @thebrandonfinn Manager: Brehan Fitzgerald @brioent @ekansoong @riansheehykelly    HIDDEN GEMS: The Last Movie Stars - https://www.hbomax.com/shows/last-movie-stars/c326a2f4-8c29-4707-9477-7a8961c9bceb Spotify Playlist -  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0VagaLEnB7nyD82hGELj0p?si=_OTmyAffRhmgzTjqGg3vww https://open.spotify.com/show/4S4IHMb9UiRAWOIu6xM3JF?si=MCDYLH88RmSg_XfPbm_FHQ Deepstash App (micro-learning) - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/deepstash-smarter-every-day/id1445023295   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) When Brandon Finn fell In love with the arts (8:00) Working on Hawaiian Airlines as a flight attendant (10:05 ) Auditioning for “Chief of War” (11:56) The scene Brandon doesn’t want you to watch (13:00) The time he got cut from the film (15:45) Changing his mindset on self-tapes (21:30) What he learned from Zoom callbacks (26:00) He was supposed to be a different role in “Chief of War” (32:30) The similarities between Ireland history and Hawaiian history (34:00) They tried to erase Hawaii’s language and history (36:30) The story of Hawaii is just like Game of Thrones (42:25) Learning the language for the role (45:00) Preparing for the physicality for the role (46:40) What life was like shooting in Hawaii and New Zealand (48:39) Jason Momoa is a bad ass (01:00:00) The biggest realization on set (01:05:00) How has his life changed (01:16:45) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 48! And what a week it was… we cannot NOT talk about AI this week, as a new starlet has come on to the scene. Welcome Tilly Norwood, a completely AI generated “actress” if you can call her that. Talent agents are lining up at her door, and E-Kan and Rían have thoughts… And where is the union on this matter? Contract strike 2023 vibes, right? On the flip side, Lionsgate comes out and admits that their venture with AI startup Runway has bombed, and apparently making great film and tv is still really hard. And Disney as well tried to deep-fake Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for the “Moana” live action, and that did not go well either. Good times, ya’ll.   Leave a review if you enjoy the podcast, it really helps others find us. Also follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media!   @ekansoong @riansheehykelly   https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eline-van-der-velden-2ab8285a_aiinfilm-futureofentertainment-syntheticactors-activity-7359693830360612865-kAfM/?utm_medium=ios_app&rcm=ACoAAAmmHVABGF2dc2G4Te6otRpC587bI-IkRi4&utm_source=social_share_video_v2&utm_campaign=share_via https://deadline.com/2025/09/talent-agent-ai-actress-tilly-norwood-studios-1236557889/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DPHjndVkgxI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link https://petapixel.com/2025/09/23/movie-studio-lionsgate-is-struggling-to-make-ai-generated-films-with-runway/   HIDDEN GEMS: Bilt Credit Card (get rewards for paying rent) Carbon Food Track App   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:23) Meet Tilly Norwood, AI "Actor" (4:00) Who created Tilly (9:00) Are people going to watch this?  (14:30) The spectacle is dying (22:25) Actors are humans (26:05) Lionsgate AI experiment bombs (29:30) Disney tried to deep-fake the Rock (31:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 47! Apologies for the upload issue on last week's episode, it has been resolved and E-Kan and Rían are here with the big Emmy's recap- the big surprises, heartfelt underdog wins, and what was up with that Nate Bargatze bit? You also will hear how it was for E-Kan sleeping in Central Park last week, and is he the Bear Grylls of the theater world?  E-Kan and Rían also discuss what's so captivating about the one hour drama and what our experiences were working on some iconic ones like NCIS and Chicago Fire. One was Rían's first job on US television, and E-Kan's... well, you'll just have to hear what happened when he had to speak Chinese in his callback.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.  @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly Opening Sketch Emmys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pajwxwDLfao Nate Bargatze Opening Monologue Emmys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d99zMO03yBs Hidden Gems: Letters to a Young Writer by Colum McCann - https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Young-Writer-Practical-Philosophical/dp/0399590803 @coconutcult - Yogurt, available in grocery stores Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:05) E-Kan is the Bear Grylls of the theater world (8:20) Rían vs the squirrels (10:10) Nate Bargatze on the Emmy's (17:00) Why Rían can't watch the Pitt (22:30) E-Kan's auditioned for NCIS thirty five times  (27:00) When Rían booked Chicago Fire his first US tv job (40:00) Could they handle success well at a young age?  (49:30) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 46! E-Kan and Rían get back to some of the happenings around town after back to back interview episodes. FYI this was recorded BEFORE the Emmy's, we will do our recap of the Emmy's next week. The Actors Access Terms of Use has been causing many actors drama confusion the last month.   E-Kan breaks down what actors need to know and why he feels a relief about what went down... for now.  The HBO Max hit "The Pitt" productions assistants have officially unionized.  Is that a good thing? E-Kan and Rían discuss it's implications and what it might mean for the industry. They also share some highlights and takeaways from recent guests Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma and reflect on how much an actor should focus on one thing in their career and how to find more clarity.  You also will hear what E-Kan is up to, and what has him sleeping in Central Park this week.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.. @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly https://iatse.net/marvel-studios-vfx-workers-unanimously-vote-to-unionize-with-iatse-marking-historic-first/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/the-pitt-union-election-pas-vote-unionize-1236362437/   Hidden Gems: Papi Taco's and Churros - @papitacoschurros Creatine (Please do your research) Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:46) E-Kan's adventure in NYC (7:07) Actors Access Drama  (12:40) Transparency in SAG-AFTRA (15:25) The Pitt Productions Assistants unionize (21:09) The After Party for Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma (28:20) E-Kan just wanted to eat (36:15) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 46! E-Kan and Rían get back to some of the happenings around town after back to back interview episodes. FYI this was recorded BEFORE the Emmy's, we will do our recap of the Emmy's next week. The Actors Access Terms of Use has been causing many actors drama confusion the last month.   E-Kan breaks down what actors need to know and why he feels a relief about what went down... for now.  The HBO Max hit "The Pitt" productions assistants have officially unionized.  Is that a good thing? E-Kan and Rían discuss it's implications and what it might mean for the industry. They also share some highlights and takeaways from recent guests Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma and reflect on how much an actor should focus on one thing in their career and how to find more clarity.  You also will hear what E-Kan is up to, and what has him sleeping in Central Park this week.  New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.. @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly https://iatse.net/marvel-studios-vfx-workers-unanimously-vote-to-unionize-with-iatse-marking-historic-first/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/the-pitt-union-election-pas-vote-unionize-1236362437/   Hidden Gems: Papi Taco's and Churros - @papitacoschurros Creatine (Please do your research) Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (1:46) E-Kan's adventure in NYC (7:07) Actors Access Drama  (12:40) Transparency in SAG-AFTRA (15:25) The Pitt Productions Assistants unionize (21:09) The Afterparty for Tim Davis and Shaan Sharma (28:20) E-Kan just wanted to eat (36:15) Hidden Gems      

Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 45! This is a monster episode, so get ready because class is in session.  This week, Actor, union leader, educator Shaan Sharma wrapped Season 6 of the worldwide hit "The Chosen" where he plays "Shmuel" and is currently running for re-election for Los Angeles SAG-Aftra Board right now (ballots are due this week!). It's a miracle he had time to join the show this week.  You probably know Shaan's record of service for the union, programs he founded, or classes he taught, but you'll hear how his journey in the arts started and how he went from being the skinny Indian kid that was picked on to starring in musicals and playing in bands, and eventually making his way to Los Angeles where he helped transform the local acting community and Los Angeles branch of the union. (List of some programs Shaan has founded below.) Shaan shares how he got an edge early in his career by soaking up information wherever he could, primarily working for casting directors and eventually became one of the top session directors in the city. With that knowledge, he has taught actors throughout the city at the SAG Conservatory and his own studio.  He also discusses why many drama schools fail to prepare their students on how to work on camera for film and tv and what he teaches to his acting students.  Through diligence, resourcefulness, and providing value for others, Shaan became an indispensable asset which eventually got the attention of the union. He gives E-Kan and Rían a brief and turbulent history lesson of the union, and breaks down what are the union's biggest obstacles, and what he hopes for the union in the future.  Shaan also talks about what it was like being on the Negotiating Committee during the Strike, being the only leader who said NO to the contract, and the fallout that happened afterwards. Was there a huge opportunity for the actors missed? There are many lessons learned here, and keep in mind, the contract will be up for renegotiation next year...  And last but not least, they talk about how Shaan's hit The Table Read Podcast came about, how they just won a Webby, and how it may have manifested his goal of becoming a series regular.  There's so much covered in this episode and so many hidden gems-  this is a must listen for actors.  (Shaan has founded The Storytellers Conservatory, an on-camera acting studio, Adjunct Professor for PACE University's School of Drama, and Solidarity, a grassroots SAG-AFTRA education group.) New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack. Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media.  @ekansoong @ríansheehykelly Shaan Sharma @shaan_sharma   SAG Conservatory - https://www.sagaftra.org/los-angeles/local-programs/los-angeles-conservatory Solidarity Meeting Zoom - SolidarityMeeting.com Table Read Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/table-read/id1673590083 Watch “The Chosen” - https://www.thechosen.tv/en-us Shaan's book - "Commercial Acting in LA: A Session Director's Guide" - PDF - http://bit.ly/1I2tpSM   Hidden Gems: Diary of CEO w/ Mr. Beast - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjrJ2DJN_pA Mark Rober's "Mario Effect" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vJRopau0g0&t=2s Jordan Peterson video “How to Gain Self-Respect” - https://youtu.be/I5y19Vapk1A Bread Head - @breadheadla Delmonico's Steak - https://www.theoriginaldelmonicos.com/   Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:51) You can disagree with people you like (05:10) How arts saved Shaan as a kid (13:10) Being one of the top session directors in the city (15:25) The power of the Union (18:15) Having a savvy business mind (21:44) How to be indispensable (29:30) The cup of success never runs out (35:35) How Shaan eventually got involved in the Union (37:00) You need to have a goal as an actor (39:00) How did the Table Read Podcast happen (54:30) Table Read tips (58:50) How the union works (01:03:35) What we can learn from Mr. Beast (01:05:02) A history lesson of the Union (01:18:20) The fallout after the strike (01:26:30) The Chosen and how it’s changed his life (01:34:55) Shaan’s biggest struggles (01:40:05) Hidden Gems          

(Apologies- this file was accidentally  replaced by Episode 46. Sorry for the inconvenience, we are trying to repair it ASAP.) Welcome to Episode 44 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! A good friend of the podcast, actor/playwright/teacher/Brazilian JiuJitsu badass Timothy Davis, joins the show this week and it was a blast.  Tim talks about growing up in the midwest and going from jock and journalism major to studying theater at one of the most prestigious drama schools in history, the Actor's Studio (DeNiro, Hoffman, Ellen Burstyn, Paul Newman, Marlon Brando to name a few students).  Tim shares what he learned, a brief history of method acting and its misconceptions, why he feels some drama schools fail to prepare their actors for the professional world and how much he appreciates his time at studying at Lesly Kahn Studios where he is also teaches.  Tim takes the guys on a real ride this week with stories of victories, hard lessons, missed opportunities, and even being homeless for a period of time. Tim, also a Jiu Jitsu blackbelt and teacher gives an incredible and poignant description of all the benefits of Jiu Jitsu and why it complements acting so well. You'll also hear the most heart-wrenching first day on the set of Billions ever, shooting an indie film with Steven Soderbergh, and the time he was asked to be James Gandolfini’s assistant.  Also keep an eye out for Tim's Distress Signals Project launching in October in Los Angeles - a theater experience aimed to raise funds and create awareness and discussion for communities in need.  Through the highs and the lows, this is a gritty story of a working actor.  Enjoy, everyone!  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG Timothy Davis- @itstimothydavis (IG, Bluesky)  Distress Signals Project live in Los Angeles @distresssignalsproject Tickets available here - Oct 3-5, 11, 12, 2025 - https://shorturl.at/f09JU Hidden Gems: Brazilian JiuJitsu,  Subconscious JiuJitsu in North Hollywood - https://www.subconsciousbjj.com/ Electrolytes for hydration Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:25) Growing up in Iowa and how Tim knew acting was for him (12:25) Getting in to the Actor’s Studio (16:30) The shortcomings of Drama School (33:30) The problem of the “starving artist” lifestyle (37:30) Being a “shadow artist” (39:50) No one taught Tim how to read a TV script (42:00) Getting drunk on a Soderbergh movie (47:40) Working on the pilot of “Billions” and the worst first day ever (58:00) Launching theater philanthropic project Distress Signals Project in Los Angeles (1:03:50) Saying “no” to James Gandolfini (1:06:00) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 43 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! Marvel drops the bomb it’s no longer doing business in Georgia and hopping over the pond to the UK. Has this been happening for years? E-Kan and Rían will get into that and discuss why they think UK has been bustling with film production. They also get into the nitty gritty, break down the differences between what an actor makes in SAG-Aftra in the US vs in the UK, and why E-Kan thinks the race to the bottom isn't sustainable.  On a bit of a lighter note, E-Kan also brings up a revealing article that might spell good news for LA and the Hollywood industry.  Stay to the end and you'll hear, did E-Kan really have an extra tooth?  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG Marvel Leaves Georgia - https://nypost.com/2025/08/18/business/marvel-leaves-georgia-to-film-in-uk-gutting-states-movie-industry/ The productions numbers LA vs NYC vs Georgia - https://www.instagram.com/p/DMdFbz4O1WM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Hidden Gems: @industryjazzcafe - https://industry-cafe-jazz.res-menu.com/menu Wilson US Open Scavenger Hunt - @wilsontennis Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:30) Marvel Has Left Georgia for the UK (8:15) The current number of productions LA vs NYC vs Atlanta (11:55) How it's like predicting stocks (17:50) How much does an actor make in the UK (28:15) Who's to blame?  (39:55) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 42 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This episode is one for the film lovers - mostly. Tarantino has a gripe about the current state of film, calling it "repressive" while Richard Linklater has a word of caution for young filmmakers. On the brighter side, the NY Times released their Top 100 Films of the 21st Century and E-Kan and Rían break it down - what they got right and what they think they missed - and why they appreciate these films more now than ever. Meanwhile Amazon invests in a startup that has launched a streaming platform of AI generated content called "Showrunner". It will allow users to create their own animated tv shows in hopes of becoming the "Netflix of AI". Will it work? Is it more AI slop? E-Kan said it was going to be a fun episode but couldn't help himself.  The guys get into a discussion about the art of acting and film today - with the rise of social media and influencers, is acting going to become more and more niche, like say opera and ballet? This one gets wild.  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media for clips during the week! @ekansoong and @riansheehykelly on IG   "Netflix of AI" - https://variety.com/2025/digital/news/netflix-of-ai-amazon-invests-fable-showrunner-launch-1236471989/ NYT Top 100 List- https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/movies/best-movies-21st-century.html Richard Linklater on young filmmakers - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DL03De2S56-/?igsh=Mzc3ZTVlOWMwZA== Tarantino on the "repressive era" of film- https://www.instagram.com/p/DM_0XwATpuU/ Hidden Gems: Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon - https://www.pushkin.fm/audiobooks/miracle-and-wonder-conversations-with-paul-simon Sundance Collab - https://collab.sundance.org/ Time stamps:  (0:00) Intro (2:08) Amazon invests in the "Netflix of AI" (8:10) Richard Linklater's warning for young filmmakers (10:30) Is acting for tv/film going to go out of date?  (13:20) Why do people want to be famous?  (14:15) Live events are booming  (25:27) Tarantino calls it a "repressive era" of film  (26:00) The NY Times Top 100 List (55:00) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 41 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! E-Kan and Rían jump around this episode with a nice a recap of our recent guests Patrick Massett and Kevin Walsh, and some not so nice news with Actors Access changing their terms of service. You will hear what actors need to know, why actors are in a sticky situation, and the root of the problem actors have with Actors Access.  They also get into a discussion about keeping your status as an actor in a turbulent time in the industry. Then somehow the guys start comparing, who talks about their feelings less- the Irish or the Asians? And of course they start talking about their feelings. This is a deep one, ya'll.  Then E-Kan talks about the recent survey that said the top job wanted by young children was YouTuber or streamer, and why it might not be a bad thing.  If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well.  Follow @actorsguidepodcast on social media! @ekansoong, @riansheehykelly Actors Access video - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DM8Cc9tO43p/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.cnbc.com/2019/07/19/more-children-dream-of-being-youtubers-than-astronauts-lego-says.html Hidden Gem: Translate App The Rainmaker (USA Network, Peacock) Time stamps: (0:00) Intro (2:40) Actors Access drama (11:49) Rían's fear of getting in trouble (19:00) Recap of Patrick Massett and Kevin Walsh interviews and insights  (08:07) When Kevin first got the acting bug (23:00) Actions dictate Feelings (26:27) Asian vs Irish culture - who talks about their feelings less?  (34:00) YouTube is young kids' top profession (19:40) A crazy story with the guns and the armorer (41:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to Episode 40 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week we have friend of the podcast and fellow actor in Los Angeles, Kevin Walsh!  For most of his life, Kevin was a professional footballer playing around the world, and now he’s taking center stage as an actor. Along with hilarious stories,  Kevin tells the guys about his transition to the arts and how he was a “closeted” actor and knew from early on, he was driven to pursue the arts. They also discuss how Kevin’s athletic background translates to his acting career, the moment when he told his dad he was going to quit playing football and become an actor and how Steven Urkel and Family Matters was an especially formative moment for him. Plenty of sports metaphors in this one - they talk about grit and determination and how film and tv is another great team sport. This was recorded a couple of months ago, and he talks about the process of producing a play -  “The Irish Curse 2.0: The Diverse Curse”. The play just wrapped and has been a success, selling out to great reviews. This is a fun one! If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review, it'll help other people find the podcast as well.    Kevin Walsh - @mayoyank @theirishcurse2.0_theplay Hidden Gem: Photographer Jeff Vespa @Jeffvespa   Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:08) Getting Started in Acting (05:20) Life as a footballer (06:55) Inspired by Family Matters and Steve Urkel (08:07) When Kevin first got the acting bug (11:30) Having Self-Confidence (14:50) It’s the most complete I feel (16:50) Getting experience on set (19:40) A crazy story with the guns and the armorer (23:55) First paid job as an actor (28:00) Landing an agent and knowing your type (31:00) Why athletes make great actors (34:50) What it takes to producing a play (39:15) Hidden Gem

Welcome to Episode 39 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This is a special one, folks. Writer-Producer Patrick Massett (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Friday Night Lights, The Blacklist) returns to the show.  Unlike most sequels, this one might be better than the first time.  This week, Patrick discusses how Friday Night Lights became a cult classic, his writing process, the very best book on writing, and how he manages to keep the fire going despite the ups and downs of this crazy industry.  They also get into a very insightful conversation about mindset, spirituality, and how sobriety changed Patrick's life.  Of course, there will be more Hollywood stories, like the time Michael Mann almost got Patrick killed. So sit back and enjoy this one!  Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack! And on all social media @actorsguidepodcast If you haven't heard their first conversation Episode 37, the link will be below. They discussed how Patrick grew up in rural Nebraska with a love for movies, starting out as an actor in Hollywood without knowing anyone besides, um, Val Kilmer, and how he broke through early adapting Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, the most successful video game adaptation up until Super Mario.  Patrick's IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0557266/ Patrick Massett Pt 1 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writer-producer-patrick-massett-talks-taking-risks/id1776516950?i=1000717431148 Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:45) Friday Night Lights (10:00) How Friday Night Lights became a cult favorite (14:40) Crazy Eagles football story (16:00) What are the differences between writing and producer credits on a TV show?  (18:00) Dealing with politics on set (32:20) Did you think Jesse Plemons would be a star?  (36:20) Why Robert McKee's Story is the best writing book (45:00) What a writing day looks for Patrick (48:00) How sobriety changed his life (54:50) What's your favorite part about being a writer (1:01:35) The secrets to pitching a show (1:08:30) Gold film with Matthew McConaughey (01:13:30) The Michael Mann story (01:22:22) Hidden Gems    

Welcome to Episode 38 of the Actor's Guide to the End of the World! This week, we got a few bombs to drop. First WeTransfer, online file sharing service announced a highly confusing and enraging change to their terms and conditions, did someone say machine learning? This service is used by almost all actors and those working in the industry, so needless to say, people were freaking out. E-Kan and Rían will go over the backlash and what you need to know. Next, is the announcement that The Late Show with Colbert is ending despite strong ratings, and a look into why and what that means for the future of late night. This week is another segment of “The Best in Reddit” where E-Kan and Rían answer the best questions from the “acting” thread of Reddit which poses the question, “Does rehearsal kill the spontaneity in performance” We also talk about how Tom Holland revealed that he often goes over his lines the morning of when he’s in the make-up chair and more tales from Hollywood Land. The guys also break a new segment “Worst Breakdowns”, and go into an actual breakdown that has red flags all over it. For those not in the industry, breakdowns are the listings that have the information on the project, roles, that actors get when they audition for a project. This one was a DOOZY and a fair warning for those submitting for non-union projects especially.   Follow us wherever you find your podcasts, including video on YouTube and Substack! And on all social media @actorsguidepodcast   https://www.the-independent.com/tech/wetransfer-terms-conditions-ai-artificial-intelligence-b2789452.html https://tech.yahoo.com/ai/articles/wetransfer-backtracks-ai-file-training-205600763.html https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/wetransfer-changes-terms-licensing-rights-ai-1234747368/   Late Show with Stephen Colbert Ratings - https://latenighter.com/news/ratings/late-night-tv-ratings-q2-2025/   Reddit thread - https://www.reddit.com/r/acting/comments/1lick5v/netflixs_adolescence_kills_the_idea_that/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button https://youtube.com/shorts/iKGCSf9CjSI?si=ulSwwa0ACWN6TTbP Hidden Gems: Cooking fennel..? Xing Fu Tang (NYC, Taiwan) - https://xingfutang.com/   Time stamps: (0:00) Intro (1:45) WeTransfer changes terms of service (9:27) Late Show w/ Stephen Colbert ending (14:50) Worst Casting Breakdown ever (18:30) Best of Reddit acting thread - Does Over-rehearsing kill spontaneity in performance? (27:20) Tom Holland says he learns his lines the morning of in the makeup chair (32:40) Hidden Gems

Welcome to the Actors Guide to the End of the World Podcast, Episode 37! This week we have a very special guest, prolific screenwriter and producer, Patrick Massett! This episode is packed as Patrick walks the guys through his incredible career spanning decades, beginning with hitting it big co-writing Lara Croft: Tomb Raider w/ Angelina Jolie, the most successful video game adaptation until Super Mario. E-Kan and Rian got a treat to Patrick’s many classic Hollywood stories like doing theater with Val Kilmer and behind the scenes hanging on the set of Oliver Stone’s "The Doors" and how sometimes you gotta take big swings to succeed in this industry. They  go back to the Patrick's early days starting out as an actor, working with some of the greats in TV history, including Ron Moore, Larry Gordon, and Sean Ryan, as well as humble beginning growing up in Nebraska. You'll hear a hilarious story of how he got into his first acting class and yet another lesson why everyone should take an acting class.   Patrick talks about pivoting from acting to screenwriting and following his passion for telling stories. He also talks about his writing process and why handling criticism and feedback are so important to his success. This is a masterclass in how to handle the ebbs and flows of a tricky and evolving entertainment industry. Of course they eventually get into the polarizing AI conversation, and a larger discussion about data, money, and how it all will affect our entertainment industry and global economy, as well as an alarming warning of what might happen if we're not careful. This episode was so packed, stay tuned for a part two coming soon! Follow  @actorsguidepodcast  wherever you find your podcasts! New episodes here every Monday! Patrick's IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0557266/ Time Stamps: (0:00) Intro (3:00) Growing up in Nebraska and how it started (4:00) Shooting big helped them land Tomb Raider (7:30) The old Hollywood we miss (9:00) How a Nebraska quarterback got into acting and writing (10:49) The first person I met was Val Kilmer (11:30) Early inspirations and falling in love movies (13:10) Writing success rescued him from being broke (15:15) Mick Jagger and taking risks (16:45) How they landed Angelina Jolie (22:30) Getting typecast as the bad guy (28:55) How he started acting because of football (29:36) Doing Shakespeare with Val Kilmer (37:30) When Rían auditioned for Patrick (40:00) Pivoting from acting to writing and trusting your gut (41:21) Against all odds with Friday Night Lights (46:40) It’s a collaboration (52:15) Fighting the algorithm and the magic of the unknown (56:00) Why we need AI regulations and the future of TV (1:06:00) Final thoughts and keys to success

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

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

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

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

Welcome to Episode 32 to the Actor’s Guide to the End of the World podcast! Still coming down from last week’s epic episode with last week’s guest Kirsten Sheridan, E-Kan and Rían recap major takeaways and lessons learned. Be sure to check out her summer workshop happening this month in LA, info below. They get onto a little blast from the past when E-Kan worked with a screen acting legend and all because he was an intern at the casting office. Listen in to hear how E-Kan’s ass got his first studio credit.  Rían also shares his first movie experience with Joel Schumacher and how he also worked at a casting office. You’ll hear what he learned about auditioning from watching and reading with so many actors as well as why “sexy indifference” is so appealing. Rían also brings up wisdom from incredible actor Michael Kostroff that changed how he looks at auditions and how it helped to remember “you’re not going to get the fucking job.” And then they discuss a controversial post about "self-tapes truths" from a former casting director that has caused a stir online. No ring light? Don’t act, just be yourself? No "bold choices"??  The guys get into it and what actors need to remember, especially newer ones. You’re going to want to hear this one. New episodes every Monday, wherever you find your podcasts, including video on Youtube and Substack! Follow @actorsguidepodcast on all social media including IG and TikTok.   Kirsten Sheridan’s website-  www.kirstensheridan.net  Summer workshop - www.bowstreet.ie/kirsten-sheridan-workshop  Aaron Paul “Breaking Bad” audition https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-6vWahav9E Amy Adam’s “June Bug” audition https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxxVcAc4gZc Emma stone’s audition “Easy A” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f0UgVxpe9E   Hidden gems: Museum of Moving Image (Astoria, NY) Jim Henson and Mission Impossible https://movingimage.org/whats-on/screenings-and-series/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22307333704&gbraid=0AAAAAogSa6Wx8yyXir9YTjwyjqeZFYzj5&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjJrCBhCXARIsAI5x66XlXeI3vGlrWaJ2gD1A1MEz2nVXJz1fo9cnMikUedk5lfQr6S7bsjgaAmNzEALw_wcB Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari https://www.amazon.com/Nexus-Brief-History-Information-Networks/dp/059373422X Time stamps (0:00) Intro (2:45) Kirsten Sheridan recap (7:05) Working with legend Tom Hanks (12:50) Rían first film experience with Joel Shumacher (17:00) Lessons learned from interning at a casting office (18:00) Audition workshop from "The Wire" actor Michael Kostroff (23:30) "Self-Tape Truths" debunked (35:24) Learn from the best auditions online (37:00) Hidden gems